Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i222

iue 222 SEPTEMBER 2024 R

PRISCILLA

O to the

LOOKER & MELINDA TURNER

@ GLASSHOUSE

Jane Grealy, Maria’s Garden, Scheme C, 2022, pastel on paper, 67 x 108 cm, 97 x 133 cm (framed)

Kaylene Whiskey, Kaylene TV, 2020, (still, detail), single-channel video, 1 min. Courtesy the artist and Iwantja Arts, Indulkana, APY Lands, SA

PROGRAMS AND WORKSHOPS

Curated by Artspace

to the SEPTEMBER 2024 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

I’m beyond excited about this month’s cover.... Spring racing is here and what is even better is that it’s back in Port Macquarie. A huge shout out to Priscilla and Melinda who, I’m sure you’ll all agree, are the perfect cover stars to help us celebrate racing being back on a local level.

Inside this edition - September - wowee it’s a big one! 144 pages jam packed with stories, people, businesses, entertainment and all things local. A happy birthday to Hello Koalas Scultpure trail, who this month

celebrates it’s 10th birthday. We meet the new faces of breakfast radio on Triple M, Sarge and Hope and have a chat with Robert Brangwin from the Observatory, and that is just to name a few! We have sooo many awesome stories this month, you will need the whole month to get through it!

Signature Dish: This month in our Dining section you will come across 8 of our local cafes/resturants who have put forward their favourite most mouthwatering dishes and we are asking you, our readers, to choose your favourite. We will be running a little

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

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie

POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie

PHONE 0447 157 340 WEB www.focusmag.com.au

IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

EDITION COORDINATOR & SALES MANAGER Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

competition on our socials over the next few weeks so keep an eye out and get involved.... you may win a voucher to the resturant of your choice.....

Dare I say it, with this being our September edition we have three editions left for 2024...... if you have something coming up that needs to be shared or a great local story, or even a business that you want to advertise with us email us here at info@ focusamg.com.au.

Happy reading guys and happy September.

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au

CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au

Stu is a local watercolour artist and the Creative Director of Wauchope Creative Hub. The Hub is a not-for-profit Co-op space that brings local artists together and allows them to permanently showcase and sell their work.

OFTHE

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals.

ISSUE

222 - SEPTEMBER 2024

INTERVIEWS

The new kids on the block at Southern Cross Austereo. You can catch Hope on HIT Mid North Coast 9-12 weekdays, and Sarge will be getting us up and at it on Triple M Breakfast from 6-9 weekdays.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

39. Lusanna Klotz - Monthly Musings

62. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures

95 Grayce Gerke - Women’s Health

98. Dr. Kristy - Beauty of Ageing

103.Bernie Ginane - Calm

115. Emilie Cooper - Legal Light

119. Bec Farnsworth - Money Ma ers

120. Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice

123. Sis Higgins - e Marketing Mind

125. Stephen Pares - Education Update

128. Kate Wood-Foye - Illuminate

130. John Van Der Ley - Garden Gems

131. Anthony Beringen - Home Styling

132. Melinda Newton - Newton Blinds

Thank you for your contribution to focus

The founder of Our Local Help, a charity that aims to help as many local people in need as possible, with whatever it is they need, filling the gaps where other charities and groups cannot reach.

CATH BAXTER

HOPE & SARGE

STU DOHERTY

From Woolgoolga in the north to Port Macquarie in the south

With quality leathers and hundreds of fabrics to choose from

“We’re not what you expect”

We’re a Family business serving the Mid North Coast for over 41 years

Home to many trusted Brands and Australian Made Furniture

There’s no need to travel to Sydney for quality, comfort and style you can trust

SHACK HOEDOWN

Ya’ll ready for a Shack Hoedown?! Sip on delicious cocktails and dance the night away, with country tunes from the amazing Jess Flanagan. Grab your rhinestone boots and cowboy hats and let’s get ready to get down! Live music with Jess Flanagan from 6pm. Margarita Specials. Dress up in your best cowgirl kit!  More info littleshack.com.au

WAUCHOPE HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS CELEBRATE 80TH ANNIVERSARY AT SPECIAL LUNCHEON

This year marks a significant milestone for the Wauchope Hospital Volunteers as they celebrate their 80th anniversary with raffles, lucky door prizes, trading table and a guest speaker featuring on the day. Featuring a sumptuous meal and reflections on the history of the local hospital.

More info contact Liz McKellar 0409 508325 or Marnie Mostyn 02 6596 1835 Where Wauchope RSL Club When10 September starts at 12 noon. Cost $30pp

SEPTEMBER

MY KIDS MARKET PORT MACQUARIE

NAT’S WHAT I RECKON

Nat’s a comedian, noisy musician, mental health advocate and award-winning, bestselling author who’s been described more than once as a potty mouth. His comedy has drawn a wonderfully diverse audience of 5 million champions worldwide, with his videos seeing 100s of millions of views and his live shows selling out theatres and comedy festivals in both Australia and across the globe since 2020. Where Players Theatr e When September 14th 7.30pm Tickets tickets.oztix.com.au

BOOTLEG RASCAL “OTI” TOUR

Yugambeh/Gold Coast-based trio, Bootleg Rascal, have announced an East Coast tour to celebrate the release of their new cut ‘Oti’ feat. Where Finnian’s Irish Tavern When Friday 20th 7.30pm Tickets tickets.oztix.com.au

My Kids Market is your local market to buy, sell and recycle pre-loved and new baby and kids goods! A place where families, small businesses and local services can come together in a fun and friendly community atmosphere. Free parking, lucky door prizes. Host a stall mykidsmarket.com.au Shopper Entry $5 and kids are FREE! Where Port Macquarie Indoor Ports Stadium When 9am-12pm

PORT MACQUARIE COMMUNITY GARDENS

Aaaand we’re back for another year of Spring Fair Fun for the whole family! Join us for our annual Spring Fair 21st September, 9am to 2pm. Plant & seedling sales, food & market stalls, live entertainment, workshops & kids activities. BYO Keep Cup and we’ll see you there! More Info thelostplot.org.au

Grand Italian Experience

Port Macquarie Travel Group Departing 13th May, 2025

Join Sonya Wheatley on a rare opportunity to see the extraordinary limestone trulli houses of Alberobello, a true highlight of this exclusive group journey. Discover Italy’s delights during dinner with Signor Luciano, journey across the Bay of Naples to Capri, dream of star-crossed lovers in Verona and delight in the Italian Lake District sheltered by the southern Alps. We have secured limited space on this iconic Trafalgar trip so please contact Port Macquarie Travel to secure your place now.

Spaces are limited, book now!

apply.

If interested, contact Port Macquarie Travel for more information on (02) 6583 1422.

Pr c la

LOOKER

Known for her integrity, work ethic, and genuine love for the sport, Priscilla Looker is a driving force in racing, embodying the dedication and passion that define the very essence of the industry.

Can you tell us about growing up in the area and your family?

I was born and raised in Port Macquarie before moving to Brisbane when I was 16. I was on a horse before I could walk and spent many years competing at pony club and the local agricultural shows. I grew up on the racetrack, with many childhood memories of being at the races with all the kids on our street who were also from racing families. I relocated back to the area in 2015 to be closer to family. I am now married with two beautiful boys, Orlando, 3, and Malakai, 1.

How did you get started in the racing industry?

I was born into it! Though, as a teen, I wasn’t interested in working in the industry and I actually wanted anything but to be

I randomly rang my father one day to tell him I’d been thinking about a career change and that I’d been considering becoming a jockey. He laughed because I’d shown no interest in the past...

involved. It wasn’t until I pursued a career as an international flight attendant that I realized how much I missed the horses. I randomly rang my father one day to tell him I’d been thinking about a career change and that I’d been considering becoming a jockey. He laughed because I’d shown no interest in the past, but after a bit of convincing, he decided he would sign me up. I started riding trackwork and trials before gaining my license to ride in races. The rest is history.

What have been some career highlights in your career?

I’ve had many, but nothing beats riding my

first winner for my grandfather, Glen Hodge, here at Port Macquarie Racecourse back in February 2010. Riding winners for family always felt extra special; it didn’t matter where it was or how much prize money was on offer. I did a lot of travelling when I was riding, and I was lucky enough to ride metropolitan winners in three different states, NSW, QLD and WA. I won a quality race on a filly called Tinto, who went on to win a Group One Qld Oaks, but my most successful day in the saddle was riding a treble at Eagle Farm, a day I’ll never forget.

Tell us about some of the lows and how you overcame them.

unfortunately includes injuries. I've had plenty of those - broken tibia and fibula in both legs, broken ribs, punctured lung, fractured back, broken wrist, and a broken arm. I've got plates and screws in every limb apart from my right arm. Being out injured when you are riding in peak form can take a toll mentally. You have to try to stay as positive as possible and work twice as hard when you return. How did you get involved with Sky Racing?

I had done some work previously for the Brisbane Racing Club when I was riding in Qld. When I broke my arm in a fall at Taree, I was offered some work alongside Gary Kliese while I was injured. When I returned to riding, they informed me that there would be a job waiting for me if I ever decided to give up riding. I went back to race riding for a few months but was unable to return to my full capacity. I retired in 2016, and two days later, I started working full time for Sky Racing, covering the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers race meetings. So I guess it was the right place at the right time. Typical work day?

The days prior to race day are our prep days, doing our form, gear changes, steward reports,

and watching replays. On race day mornings, it's all about scratchings, finalising numbers, and submitting our tips. Throw in the rat race of getting the boys dressed, fed, and out the door, everyone in the car and en route to the venue I'm working at, via daycare. Thanks, Discovery, for taking great care of the boys. I do a radio preview usually in the car. Then race day begins on air for a preview of our tips, followed by a race-by-race commentary on each horse in the mounting yard, along with pre and post race interviews.

I retired in 2016, and two days later, I started working full time for Sky Racing, covering the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers race meetings.

There's nothing like a home track advantage. We will have one of the best, if not the best, tracks in the area, and it will be great to see it back in action. Whether you're there to back a few winners, have a beer with your mates, or are looking for a family day out, there's something for everyone.

Favourite Port Cup memory?

My husband Ben winning the Cup aboard Sofin back in 2016. She was the last country horse to win the race.

What excites you the most about the industry moving forward?

Racing will soon be back in Port, why is it so important to make sure that we support the race club and have this track back in action?

We haven't raced at Port Macquarie for 15 months, and they couldn't run a local cup last year due to track renovations. It will be nice to see a big crowd of locals getting behind and supporting our sport. Like other sports, everyone has a home ground, but unfortunately, all of our local trainers and jockeys have had to travel in recent years.

The number of females coming through the ranks as jockeys, trainers, strappers, owners, and on-air presenters. This was once a very male-dominated industry, but times are changing. "Who runs the world? Girls!"

What advice do you have for other women who would like to, or are wanting to get into the racing industry?

If you work hard, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Thanks Priscilla.

M inda

TURNER

Melinda Turner, daughter of local trainer Jenny Graham is a busy mum of two boys and has an exciting career in the horse racing industry.

Hi Melinda, can you tell us a bit about growing up in the area and your family?

Both my parents were horse trainers and I grew up in a quiet street that was directly on the racecourse. I had a great childhood there with plenty of weekends spent at the races while Mum worked with the horses. My sister and I always had a pony and participated in a few shows from a young age. I spent afternoons after school with kids who lived in the street who were all close friends, and still are to this day.

I completed by HSC at Mackillop College before moving to Newcastle to study a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics. I moved back home to Port Macquarie after completing my degree to be closer to family. I am now married with 2 beautiful boys, Tommy and Oakley.

How did you get started in the racing industry ?

I got started in the racing industry after

I started working at the stables riding trackwork for Mum before starting my jockey apprenticeship. I rode in races for a short period of time before starting a family.

completing my degree and wanting to explore other options. I always had a love and passion for horses however there were limited opportunities for females in the racing industry when I was growing up. When I moved home from uni an increasing number of women had been having success in racing which inspired me to give it a go. I started working at the stables riding trackwork for Mum before starting my jockey apprenticeship. I rode in races for a short period of time before starting a family. I made the transition to work alongside Mum training and trackwork which was more flexible with kids. I moved onto Sky Racing a few years later when the opportunity came up.

What have been some of the highlights in your career?

I don’t have a major highlight in the saddle however riding winners for the family was always extra special. I rode my first winner

on my very first race ride at Grafton in 2014 for Mum on a filly called “Rebel Dancer”. She actually went on to win in town with Priscilla in the saddle. A highlight when working alongside Mum was trifectering the country championship qualifier here on our home track in 2018. The work involved to have 3 horses perform at their best on one day was really satisfying. Our family’s horse “Victorem” went on to win the final at Royal Randwick which is also another highlight and something I will remember forever. Highlights with Sky Racing include covering our local country cups, championship qualifiers, and the national pony race series in Brisbane.  Tell us about some of the low times and how you overcame them?

I spent plenty of time injured while I was race riding and riding trackwork. It’s a lonely time while your on the sidelines however it’s just something that comes with the game.

Low times while I was working alongside Mum would have to be the long hours and not getting results for various reasons that are beyond your control. Training horses can produce the highest of highs, but also the lowest of lows. Losing some of our better horses through injury was probably some of the hardest times, particularly our stable star Victorem. Thankfully he has been able to retire with me at our property.

Tell us how you got involved with Sky Racing?

I started with Sky Racing in 2020 on a temporary basis relieving Priscilla while she was on maternity leave. I am now lucky enough to be employed on a permanent basis and cover a variety of racetracks as far south as Gosford, some western tracks including Tamworth and Armidale and of course our local tracks.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

A typical work day consists of getting myself and everyone out of the house on time depending on which tracks I am working at. When travelling to places a few hours away I am sometimes on the road before the family is out of bed. I complete race day scratchings, radio commitments and then on air presenting throughout the day. My role on track consists of giving an analysis on each

e new improved racing surface will a ract a wider range of travelling trainers here to Port Macquarie which in turn increases revenue.

horse, providing tips for each race followed by trainer and jockey interviews. Racing will soon be back in Port Macquarie, why is it so important to make sure that we support the race club and have this track back in action?

Port Macquarie Race club is a large employer of local people in the industry, so it’s important the race club is back up and running with a number of horses trained here on the Mid North Coast. The area is in desperate need of an extra track back in action to help relieve pressure off the other race tracks in our area. It’s also important for our local trainers to have their home track up and running to eliminate travel to other meetings. The new improved racing surface will attract a wider range of travelling trainers here to Port Macquarie which in turn increases revenue.

What is your favourite Port Cup memory?

Mum won a race with a little horse called “Eripsni”. She was locally owned by a large group of owners who were all keen racing fans and certainly knew how to celebrate.

What excites you the most about the industry moving forward into the next few years?

The racing industry is growing at a rapid rate. I am most excited about the new races being created to target our country trainers. It’s giving your average small trainer the opportunity to race for top dollar which is something that wasn’t a possibility just a few years ago. I love the improvements being made to on-track facilities to attract a younger generation to the races. The addition of on track entertainment for adults and kids has been a really big drawcard to getting more people back to the races since COVID. I think it’s really important we continue to get the younger generation to the races, they are the future of our sport.

What advice do you have for other women who would like to, or are wanting to get into the racing industry?

Get involved, you won’t look back. It’s an industry with endless possibilities where you have the option to interchange between different career paths. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, work hard and never stop learning.

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PORTMACQUARIE

Stu

Doherty

Stu Doherty is a local Watercolour Artist and the Creative Director of Wauchope Creative Hub. The Hub is a notfor-profit Co-op space that brings local artists together and allows them to permanently showcase and sell their work.

Hi Stu. Can you share a bit about your own background and journey as an artist?

Like a lot of creative people, my love of art started when I was a kid. My Mum always encouraged our creativity and weekends were filled with one art project or another. I think I'm fortunate to have grown up in an analogue world where we used our hands to make things instead of tapping

away on devices. This tactile engagement with art started my lifelong love of creating something from nothing.

I wanted to follow a creative path, so after graduating high school, I went to the National Art School (then called East Sydney Tech) and spent 3 years learning illustration, life drawing, colour theory and design. A career as a menswear designer then took me around the world a dozen times over a couple of decades. I retired from that corporate life about 5 years

WAUCHOPE CREATIVE HUB

ago and moved to Port Macquarie to be close to family and to commit to painting full time.

I had been longing for a more creative life and when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped out of the rat race and into my studio near the beach. I'm lucky enough to spend 3 or 4 days a week painting in my studio and a day teaching others to paint at Wauchope Creative Hub.

I have been a finalist in a number of national art prizes including the Prestigious Elaine Bermingham National Watercolour Prize for

washing the page with water is my happy place, my style continues to evolve and reflects my surroundings and love of the Australian landscape.

I focus mainly on botanical studies and Australian landscapes, employing delicate, transparent layers of watercolour to produce calm and serene works. Each piece can take several weeks to complete, and I often juggle multiple works simultaneously.

I sometimes incorporate cut paper into my work.

QCAD Gallery Brisbane,

Brunswick Street

Gallery Melbourne, Corner Store Gallery Orange, Rex Livingstone Gallery Katoomba and Lethbridge Gallery in Brisbane. Another recent highlight was the inclusion of my artwork into the Bain Park upgrade in Wauchope where my work can be seen etched into the rusted metal on the tall sculptures at the entrance. How would you describe your style and what are your preferred mediums?

For instance, a recent piece exhibited in Northern Exposure at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery Port Macquarie featured hundreds of handcut paper Banksia leaves.

The move from Redfern to the Mid North Coast significantly shifted my perspective. I became captivated by Eucalyptus and Banksia leaves, which I explored extensively in my earlier work. These elements have evolved from small details into expansive landscapes, featuring dreamy, misty views of local rivers and bushland - ideal subjects for watercolour.

My practice is predominantly in watercolour; I love the process and the flow of pigment and water on paper. This process is like a meditation for me; mixing colours and

Paper is crucial for watercolour artists, and I sometimes incorporate cut paper into my work. For instance, a recent piece exhibited in Northern Exposure at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery Port Macquarie featured hundreds of hand-cut paper Banksia leaves. Each leaf was meticulously drawn, painted, cut, and assembled into a three-dimensional canopy on the canvas.

Continued over...

You started the Wauchope Creative Hub, what was the inspiration for this space? How did your own experience as an artist shape the idea for the Hub?

The idea for Wauchope Creative Hub came from humble beginnings years ago as a stallholder at the Port Macquarie Artist Market where a couple of other Hub members were also there at the time. My sister, Chris Pearce, a local fibre artist and I wanted to establish a community of creatives and a permanent destination to sell our work, so we took the plunge and opened the notfor-profit co-op with a very small group of locals.

Could you tell us about some of the other local artists and makers who have pieces at the Hub?

The Wauchope Creative Hub Co-op is an

Stu Doherty

artist run space with over 30 members including local visual artists such as Maree Saville, Julie King and Francessca O’Donnell, Fibre artists Chris Pearce, Adrienne Van Spanje and Janelle Thomas, local Potter Bron Lowe and Resin artist Olivia Allen to name a few. The range of locally handmade products in the store is really varied and very impressive.

Local artists and creatives actually find the Hub, it's a case of “if you build it, they will come”, and they did!

The Hub tries to keep each artist unique and handmade on the Mid North Coast. It's a very inclusive space, although it is bursting at the seams, they do welcome new members if they offer something new or unusual.

e Hub tries to keep each artist unique and handmade on the Mid North Coast, it’s a very inclusive space, although it is bursting at the seams, they do welcome new members if they o er something new or unusual.

How do you go about finding artists and makers for the shop? Is there any particular criteria?

You also run some workshops there, can you tell us about some of the workshops you have hosted and what you have coming up? I teach watercolour workshops across NSW and also at The Hub in Wauchope. The most popular classes are always beautiful Australian botanicals like flowering gum, flannel flowers, banksia and of course colourful eucalyptus leaves. These classes are also an opportunity to create

community and meet like minded locals. Guiding people through the steps of learning to paint watercolour is one of my passions, it's a crazy out of control medium, but I break down the process to ensure success. Beginners are my favourite students because I love to see the pride when they create something they didn't know was possible. I often have first time students saying “I don't have a creative bone in my body” and I always tell them that I will be able to find one!

The workshops run all year round and include classes like landscape, flannel flowers, still life and colour theory for beginners plus some gorgeous resin pouring classes from the Hubs resident Resin Artist Olivia Allen. For people interested in visiting the Creative Hub to check out the shop, what sort of things do you have available there?

Guiding people through the steps of learning to paint watercolour is one of my passions, it’s a crazy out of control medium, but I break down the process to ensure success.

The Hub is a big old shed full of arts and crafts, everything from hand knits, hats, candles, crystal jewellery, quilts, mosaics, Mells Bells, macrame, jam, timber serving boards, I could go on and on. They love keeping it local and supporting our local creative community.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

The shop and gallery are open Monday to Saturday 10am till 4pm at 87 Cameron st Wauchope. Follow the

or

or special events they have coming up.

You can see more of my art at studoherty.com or Insta Thanks Stu

Hub on Facebook

Eventbrite to check out what workshops

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Wayne Berry, aka Off Track Photography, has always had a fascination with photography but his recent travels along the East Coast have really seen him reignite his passion and capture some incredible landscape and scenery images along the way.

Hi Wayne. Can you tell us a bit about your background and beginnings as a photographer?

WAYNE BERRY

I’ve always had an interest in photography. Thinking back even as far as grade 4 camp I took one of my parents film cameras and took random happy snaps. They weren’t the prettiest shots. I recall some accidental shots of the ground and the sky, possibly some with half my face in it (we call

Throughout the years I’ve had periods where I would get inspiration and take countless photos. Then the camera would take a back seat to a busy life. Smartphones being invented were a godsend for me, I had a camera with me at all times! I pretty much drive everyone mad by stopping and taking a photo of the most random object. My daughter recently labelled me “Mr take a OFF TRACK PHOTOGRAPHY

them selfies now) but, I was around 9 and those were the days of cheap film cameras. There were no luxuries like checking if the shot was good or deleting and retaking if it wasn’t. I guess I inherited the passion from my Dad who was an avid hobby photographer during my childhood.

I recall him dragging his camera bag of lenses and his 1960’s model and very heavy Russian built Zenit Film SLR around when we went out bush for an adventure. He has hundreds, if not thousands of “slides” stored away somewhere

and just as many prints. He still takes some shots these days albeit with a much newer DSLR.

Yeppoon QLD. This reignited my passion for the camera. I’ve seen some amazing country and I couldn’t resist capturing everything I saw. Believe it or not, some of my favourite location shots have been here in Port Macquarie and surrounds.

I don’t know if people really appreciate how spectacular the coastline is in this part of the world, and then we have the mountain ranges out west with spectacular waterfalls and other scenery.

I don’t know if people really appreciate how spectacular the coastline is in this part of the world, and then we have the mountain ranges out west with spectacular waterfalls and other scenery.

photo of anything and everything!” I got more serious with my photography about 12 years ago when I invested in a decent DSLR. I then spent a few years taking thousands of photos, from landscape, hardscape to portraits, and then life got busy for a while. I never stopped photographing, but it wasn’t my key focus, as life goes.

More recently, I’ve had the luxury of travelling the East Coast and Midwest regions in a caravan, from the NSW South Coast up to

Having spent the last 20 or so years living in South East Qld where there is some spectacular scenery and being born and raised in Canberra, this area of NSW wins for luxury scenery hands down.

Continued over....

WAYNE BERRY

How would you describe your style?

I don’t know if I have a specific style - I take a lot of nature and landscape photos because I’m out and about a lot and there’s something to be said about the beauty nature holds. However, my preferred style to satisfy my inner artist is typically much more compositional and artistic, doing close up and macro shots. I often see art within objects or the object as part of a bigger artwork, rather than an object itself being the reason for a photo.

Sometimes it might be the most unsuspecting and plain object or subject, like a hedge in my backyard (refer to the BW flower photo). I don’t see a boring old hedge, I see objects in the hedge that would make a good photo...

I feel compelled to try and capture what I’m visualising in the lens, often I can’t replicate it in the camera but when I do it’s very satisfying. Sometimes it might be the most unsuspecting and plain object or subject, like a hedge in my backyard (refer to the BW flower photo in my pack). I don’t see a boring old hedge, I see objects in the hedge that would make a good photo, that’s if I can successfully translate it to the camera.

As I’ve been travelling, I’ve been focusing on landscape and nature shots a lot more recently. I must admit though, they don’t come as naturally to me like close up compositions do, unlike some other amazing photographers out there who seem to pull off amazing landscape shots with ease.

What are some of your favourite subjects to shoot?

I have to admit I have a bit of a thing for abandoned dinghies on the shorelines. I can’t explain why, but if I have my camera and I come across a derelict dinghy, I have to snap it. There’s something intriguing to me about the story of it.

What was its purpose when operational,

pleasure or work? Why is it laying abandoned and derelict? They seem to be one of the very few items in our materialistic world that people are willing to just abandon where they lay.

I also have a DJI Mini Pro 4 drone for aerial shots and video and I’ve recently inherited my dad’s old Zenit film SLR, which I am going to play around with and see what shots I can get out of it.

You do a fair bit of outdoor adventure, what have been some stand out trips that you’ve taken your camera along for?

I was travelling full time for the last 6 months and visited too many spectacular places to mention. Some stand outs have been Purling Brook Falls Qld, our own Ellenborough Falls and Queen Mary Falls out near Warwick in Qld. From a broader perspective, one of my favourite trips was the Bridle Track down at Bathurst. It’s not tough hardcore 4wd’ing by any stretch, but that whole region is beautiful. I intend to go back in the warmer months so I can camp and swim in the rivers, and of course take a lot of photos.

Do you have any bucket list destinations you dream of photographing?

I would love to head over to the US to explore some of their outback areas and Norway’s spectacular world renowned waterfalls.

Thailand has some amazing scenery that I’d like to photograph, and of course our own outback which I haven’t got to all of yet, but I will!

What’s your set up like when you’re out on the road? Any particular gear/equipment that you always have with you?

I have a Nikon D7100 DSLR, it’s getting a bit older but it does the job. I also have a Sony mirrorless DSLR, but I prefer the Nikon as my ‘go to’. I get my fair pound of flesh out of my iPhone 13 Pro Max whenever I don’t have the DSLR’s with me, and I also use it to take different perspectives to the DSLR’s. I’ve got some really nice compositions with the iPhone that I can’t quite replicate with the better cameras.

I also have a DJI Mini Pro 4 Drone for aerial shots and video and I’ve recently inherited my dad’s old Zenit film SLR, which I am going to play around with and see what shots I can get out of it. I’m also shopping for a new mirrorless Canon as we speak. It’s time to upgrade!

What are some of your favourite photographs you’ve captured to date and why?

Too many to list but probably 2 dinghy shots, not just because of my slightly eccentric fascination with derelict dinghy’s, but because I like the composition and story I captured with them both. Another is the B&W flower shot, which ticks all my artistic boxes. Others may not appreciate it like I do, and that’s fine, we all have different tastes.

What are your plans or aspirations in regards to your photography heading into the future?

I’m in the process of setting up an e-commerce website to be able to sell some framed prints. I’m working with a local print shop Canvas Momentz to dial in my prints to be spot on perfect. They have been fantastic to work with, very knowledgeable and willing to give advice and their print quality is second to none.

The added benefit to full-time travelling for 6 months has been that I've had some time to start doing serious editing to the tens of thousands of forgotten images I have taken over the years. It’s time to let the world see some of them.

Where can we check out your work and get in touch?

@offtrack_photography

Off Track Photography

Thanks Wayne.

OFF TRACK PHOTOGRAPHY

Kaleidoscope

OPENS AT PORT CENTRAL

Designed to engage and empower local artisans and their businesses, Kaleidoscope is now open in Port Central.

Following the success of the flagship store in Coffs Central, Kaleidoscope aims to be the ‘go to’ gift store where locals and tourists alike can shop for unique gifts from the Mid North Coast. This Gowings Bros Ltd concept is managed by artist and maker Katy Dee of @ Shiztastic.

Hi Katy, Port Macquarie is so excited to welcome Kaleidoscope. Tell us a little about the ethos of the brand and the array of products sold? We are excited to be opening in Port Macquarie too! The aim of the shop is to connect local artists and makers to the community and beyond. By giving these local businesses a unique retail opportunity we aim to help them grow and learn, it allows them to put their brand in front of a wide range of customers in a retail environment

at a competitive cost. We currently have over 35 makers in our opening season ‘Spring’ including textiles, resin, bath, candles, plants, leatherwork and a local pantry! There is truly something for everyone.

For local artists or designers wanting to engage with yourself and the world of Kaleidoscope, how can they best get in touch? You can find us online at Kaleidoscopeshop.com.au where artists and makers can fill out an expression of interest to apply to join our space. We will have new opportunities open every season, the next one being ‘Summer’ starting in mid November! I understand you have an opening coming up. Can you tell us a little about this? Join the artists and makers to celebrate the opening of the Port Macquarie store on Thursday September 19th, from 5-7pm,

located on the ground floor of Port Central. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event. There will be drinks on arrival and local nibbles as well as some surprise activities. Follow along to be in the know @kaleidoscope_pmq kaleidoscopepmq@gowings.com

Showcase your best race day attire at Gowings Port Central Fashions on the Field at the 2024 Port Cup on Friday, 11th October.

Showcase your best race day attire at Gowings Port Central Fashions on the Field at the 2024 Port Cup on Friday, 11th October.

CATEGORIES

CATEGORIES

Best Dressed Lady

Best Dressed Lady

Best Dressed Gentleman

Best Dressed Gentleman

Best Millinery

Best Millinery

Pre register by scanning the QR code below or on the day at the Fashions on the Field registration desk from 11am - 1pm.

Pre register by scanning the QR code below or on the day at the Fashions on the Field registration desk from 11am - 1pm.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

PORT CENTRAL FASHIONS ON THE FIELD

MARKETING MANAGER PORT CENTRAL

Carissa Dwyer

What inspired Gowings Port Central Shopping Centre to host the Fashions on the Field this year?

At Gowings Port Central Shopping Centre, we’ve always been passionate about bringing the community together, and Fashions on the Field is the perfect way to showcase our position as the go-to destination for fashion in Port Macquarie. This event not only captures the elegance and excitement of race day fashion, but also shines a light on the unique style and carefully curated collections from our retailers, making it an event we’re thrilled to host.

Can you share what attendees can expect from this year’s Fashions on the Field event?

This year’s event is shaping up to be more exciting than ever! With racing returning to the Port Macquarie Race Club, we’re

thrilled to play a key role, introducing a reinvigorated Fashions on the Field event, in a new location and with over $3,000 worth of prizes to be won! With a lineup of glamorous fashion, live entertainment, and a celebration of creativity and style, attendees can look forward to stunning race day outfits, interactive activities, and the chance to witness some of the best-dressed individuals in Port Macquarie competing for top honours.

You can expect to see outfits featuring vibrant spring hues like Tangerine Twist and Meadow Green, complemented by elegant accessories and statement millinery.

fashion. Additionally, we'll have a pop-up millinery shop in the centre from Saturday, 5th October 2024, and the fabulous Vanessa Jane from The Style Vibe will be on-site, working with our retailers to bring you racing attire inspiration, tips, and style advice.

What are some key trends in race day fashion that we can look forward to seeing at the event?

How has Gowings Port Central collaborated with the centre’s retailers to enhance the event experience for participants?

We've collaborated with our retailers to craft a unique shopping experience leading up to the event, with many featuring collections and promotions specifically tailored for race day

This year, we’re seeing a strong influence of bold colours and classic silhouettes. You can expect to see outfits featuring vibrant spring hues like Tangerine Twist and Meadow Green, complemented by elegant accessories and statement millinery. Sustainability is a significant trend, with many participants opting for timeless pieces and recycled materials. Additionally, tailored suits for the

men with unexpected pops of colour and intricate detailing are becoming a favourite choice for those fellas looking to make a sophisticated statement. Could you tell us more about the judging panel and what they’ll be looking for in contestants?

We're excited to have an esteemed panel of judges this year, featuring local identity and distinguished businessman Alistair Flower - Managing Director of the Flowers Hotel Group, Bec Bayss - a professional FOTF judge and member of Millinery Australia, and myself, Carissa Dwyer - Marketing Manager at Port Central Shopping Centre. We'll be looking for a blend of style, originality, and attention to detail. It’s not just about wearing a stunning outfit; it’s about your presentation, creativity, and how well you capture the essence of race day fashion.

What role do community partnerships and local businesses play in making this event successful?

Community partnerships are at the heart of this event. We’ve collaborated with local businesses such as FOCUS magazine, Hem Real Estate, MUSE Beauty, Bird Rock Bar & Grill, Chemist Warehouse, Touchwood Flowers, BB Millinery and others who have generously contributed to our prize pool and event execution. Their involvement not only elevates the event but also strengthens our ties within the community, making it a truly local celebration.

How can interested participants register for the Fashions on the Field event, and are there any tips for standing out in the competition?

Participants can easily register online through our website, via the QR code featured in our

accompanying advert or in person on the day of the races at the Fashions on the Field registration desk. My top tip for standing out is to be authentic and confident in your style. Whether you’re going for a classic look or something more avant-garde, make sure it reflects your personality. And don’t forget the smaller details - accessories, grooming, and overall presentation can make all the difference.

Thanks Carissa.

ERIN PERKINS

PCYC Port Macquarie is a brand-new, purposebuilt facility providing quality activities across a diverse array of sports and activities. We spoke to Club Manager Erin Perkins about the new space and how they plan to engage with, and provide for, the community. providing quality activities across

Hi Erin. Could you tell us a bit about the PCYC and what your role is?

PCYC NSW is a registered charity dedicated to empowering young people to reach their full potential. Our mission is to engage with, and positively influence the youth in our community through sports, recreation, education, leadership, and cultural programs. PCYC Port Macquarie is one of 66 clubs across NSW, and what sets us apart is our unique partnership with the Department of Education and Hastings Secondary College. Our state-of-the-art, shared-use facility is utilised by the students and staff of the college during school hours and also serves as a community space offering a wide range of activities and programs to the broader population.

As the Club Manager at PCYC Port Macquarie, I am privileged to lead an exceptional team, ensuring we fulfil the PCYC mission by creating a safe, welcoming environment that everyone in the community can enjoy.

What inspired the creation of the new, purpose-built PCYC facility in Port Macquarie, and how long has the project been in development?

I am privileged

to

lead

an exceptional team, ensuring we fulfil the PCYC mission by creating a safe, welcoming environment that everyone in the community can enjoy.

The partnership's inception originated from Hastings Secondary College seeking improved resources to support their talented student-athletes, particularly those involved in the Sports Academy Program, (noting the college has a long history of national and international representatives within its alumni), and to enhance the resources for our general sporting, wellbeing, and Clontarf Programs. This "resource seeking" was occurring simultaneously to PCYC exploring opportunities to re-establish a presence in Port Macquarie.

It quickly became evident that a partnership would greatly benefit the school, PCYC, and the broader community through a high quality shared asset, as well as magnifying the reach and success of our shared programs. An additional benefit has been the extremely

positive connections to the community that have been created.

The project was in development for 8 years before opening and was driven by a small group of dedicated local people, including

Local Member Leslie Williams and Geoff Duck, representing the college.

Can you share some of the key features of the facility that set it apart?

Our facility features two versatile multisport courts, a dedicated gymnastics area, a fullyequipped gym with a functional training space, two multi-purpose rooms and a conference room. Additionally, our youth hub is a key feature of the facility that provides opportunity for youth to engage with the club staff, other teens and our Police Youth Engagement Officer.

We are also proud to host the Clontarf Academy of Hastings Secondary College.

Continued over...

The facility offers a wide range of activities, from gymnastics to boxing. Can you share a bit about what’s available?

At PCYC Port Macquarie, we offer a wide range of activities to suit every interest. Join our mixed netball competitions or try pickleball, open to all experience levels. We also provide gymnastics classes for all ages, from Kindergym to adult gymnastics. Our boxing program is available three times a week for ages 6 and up and is led by highly qualified and experienced volunteer coaches from the Port Macquarie Boxing Club.

Our Youth Hub is a welcoming space where young people can hang out and make new friends, and that’s just the beginning. We’re constantly expanding our programs to offer even more to the community.

Who are the facilities open to and how can people join?

pickleball, trivia, baking, and much more! For teens, we have specialised workshops such as our Hoops Academy, gym fundamentals, Italian cooking and boxing 101.

For teens, we have specialised workshops such as our Hoops Academy, Gym Fundamentals, Italian Cooking and Boxing 101.

Our gym and fitness memberships include unlimited access to the gym, plus 14 group fitness classes weekly, ranging from yoga and zumba to our highly popular healthy ageing class. On Sunday afternoons, teens can drop in for tabletop games with the ‘Halflings.’ We also host birthday parties and offer spaces for hire, perfect for conferences, meetings, or casual court use.

At PCYC Port Macquarie, there’s something for everyone. We’re open from 6 AM to 10 PM Monday through Friday, and from 8 AM to 6 PM on weekends. You can easily become a PCYC member by signing up on our website or by visiting the club and chatting with our friendly team. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates and news School holiday programs are essential for keeping kids active and engaged. What are some of the standout activities planned for the next holidays?

In the upcoming holidays, we're excited to offer a wide variety of activities for primary aged students, including fitness games, futsal, netball, basketball, lego masters, table tennis,

In addition to our regular gymnastics classes, which will continue throughout the school break, we're hosting 3-hour workshops focused on enhancing specific gymnastics skills, including handstands, cartwheels, roundoffs, bars, beam skills, and back handsprings.

We're also thrilled to welcome a representative gymnastics team from Denmark, who will be joining us for the holidays. They will be hosting workshops in Port Macquarie on Friday, October 11th, and showcasing their performance at PCYC Taree on Saturday October 12th.

PCYC facilities often play a significant role in community engagement. What impact do you hope this new centre will have on the local community?

The club has already brought together a diverse range of community groups, promoting participation among individuals of all ages. It is evolving into a community hub where people from various generations can come together to access and enjoy a wide array of sports and recreational opportunities.

PORT MACQUARIE

Our strong partnership with the NSW Police, supported by our on-site Youth Engagement Officer, plays a vital role in breaking down barriers and fostering positive relationships between the police and the public.

We have forged valuable connections with numerous local organisations and agencies to enhance our collaborative initiatives. A notable highlight has been our partnership with Dignity and Rotary, which provides free meals to those facing food insecurity, having already provided 3200 meals since May.

Our volunteer program further strengthens community bonds, creating even more opportunities for engagement and connection. Currently we have over 20 volunteers giving their time to support our programs. Additionally, the overwhelming support and sponsorship from local businesses has greatly contributed to our ability to deliver mission-focused outcomes, through Fit for Life, Fit for Change and Nations of Origin.

Driving programs are not typically associated with sports facilities. Can you

A notable highlight has been our partnership with Dignity and Rotary, which provides free meals to those facing food insecurity, having already provided 3200 meals since May.

explain the importance of the Safer Drivers Course and how it fits into the broader mission of the PCYC?

The NSW Safer Drivers Course aims to provide learner drivers with the knowledge they need to reduce road risks and prevent accidents by becoming a safe driver.

As an Accredited Provider of the Transport for NSW Safer Drivers Course, PCYC NSW knows that our students will complete the course with a greater understanding of how to be a safe P-plate driver. Participants receive 20 logbook hours upon successful completion of the SDC.

We recognise that many young people face challenges in completing the required 120 hours of supervised driving, often due to a lack of time or resources within their families. This gap in experience can impact their ability to obtain a driver’s licence, which in turn limits their opportunities for employment and independence. We have fully-funded places available in our course, thanks to Panthers Port Macquarie. These will be provided to the young people of Port Macquarie to support them to successfully and safely transition from their L Plates to their P Plates.

What excites you most about being involved with opening this new facility to the Port Macquarie community?

What excites me most are the incredible opportunities this facility has created, extending beyond sports and recreation to positively impact employment and education in our local area. We are truly fortunate to have such a high-quality facility that is accessible to everyone. I am deeply passionate about fostering a safe and supportive environment for young people, where they can feel a sense of belonging and build strong connections.

Our youth programs, including our early intervention and resilience initiatives led by our Police Youth Engagement Officers, are already making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people in Port Macquarie. Additionally, I am eager to launch our upcoming After Dark program, which aims to engage even more youth in our community by offering free activities on weekends.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

We invite everyone to visit our club, explore our facilities, and connect with our friendly team. You can also find more information on our social media pages and website.

Thanks Erin.

focus contributor.

Hands up who else has started spring cleaning their wardrobe?

I know I have, and in fact I had to pull myself away from the depths of the second drawer to start writing this article, all because my deadline looms!

For me, there’s equal parts dread and excitement when it comes to spring cleaning my wardrobe. But you know it’s time to start when the crisp cool mornings transform into sunny warm (even hot) days and choosing what to wear seems like an impossible task.

At this time of the year, the ultimate transseasonal wardrobe staples need to be front and centre. Light enough but warm enough, cool enough but not too cool. Throwing on light layers in fresh fun colours reminds us that warm summer days are on the way and aren’t we all in favour of that!

But why is it that I feel both dread and excitement when it comes to transforming my wardrobe space each season? Undoubtedly I will uncover the items that I thought I would wear, but didn’t. Picking up these pieces and assessing their “right” to stay in my wardrobe for another 6 or 8 months to get anther chance at the roulette wheel next season is a challenge I face more times than I care to share here.

I’ve been buying and selling fashion for the best part of 12 years now and with that comes a feeling of immense responsibility, not only to my customers, but also to the environment. Now I am not going to get into the global effects of fast fashion here, as anyone who has walked into our space knows that that is

an area of the industry we will never share in, however I do want to talk a little about buying habits.

There are many, many different reasons we buy new clothes. From the unexpected impulse buy, because you’ve never seen a top or pair of shoes that fabulous… right through to a well considered purchase of an exceptionally cut black pant or leather jacket that you will treasure for years. There’s always a reason and/or justification behind every purchase.

I’ve been buying and selling fashion for the best part of 12 years now and with that comes a feeling of immense responsibility, not only to my customers, but also to the environment.

they bought from me years ago and it still looks brand new, or when they tell me that every time they wear an item they bought from me, they still get compliments when they wear it. That’s what happens when you buy well and you buy quality.

So as we all make a little extra space in our wardrobes and consciously consider each and every item we own, let’s make a commitment to continue to make good choices when it comes to buying this season.

Right now though, the economic climate is changing and the majority of people are considering and reconsidering before simply “buying for buying’s sake”. If anything, this change in attitude towards thoughtless consumerism is exactly what our industry needs and is why independent boutiques like ours are surviving this shift, while many others in the mainstream are suffering.

When you buy quality, you receive longevity. When you buy unique, you also receive individuality.

I’ve said it here before and I will say it again; the best compliment I continue to receive is when a customer walks in wearing a garment

Let’s swap, share or sell clothing that no longer lights us up. Let’s buy well this season and really push the limits of what we already own, by adding something fabulous to it or simply wearing it in different ways than we “normally do”.

Together we can weather the shifts being forced upon us, ensuring that we not only look fabulous, but feel fabulous while doing it!

*If you are interested in selling some of your good quality clothing that you no longer wear, please register your interest in our next Pre-Loved Fashion Sale by visiting megandme. com.au and filling in the online expression of interest for our next event.

TUE 13 MAY - Fly out day.

WED 14 MAY Arrive in Rome

On arrival in Rome we will be met and transferred to our accommodation.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza St. Peter’s or similar (3 nights)

THU 15 MAY - Welcome to Rome

Welcome to Rome! Blaze a trail through la bella Italia – your epic journey begins in Rome. Once the powerful capital of the world, and yours to explore before meeting your travel companions and travel director for a welcome

Italian GRAND

reception and orientation drive introducing you to some of the city's iconic and unexpected highlights. Meals: welcome reception. Hotel: Crowne Plaza Roma - St. Peter's Rome or similar.

FRI 16 MAY - Explore Ancient Rome and the Vatican City

Follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims who for centuries have flocked to the Vatican City. Visit St. Peter's Basilica, one of the holiest sites in Christendom, joining a local specialist for an included sightseeing tour. See Michelangelo's magnificent Pietà, hewn from the most 'perfect' block of Carrara marble. Then venture

into Ancient Rome to see Circus Maximus, where the thundering noise of chariot races once filled the air, followed by a visit to the Colosseum. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Sit on the Spanish Steps, shop up a storm on Via Veneto or continue your encounter with Ancient Rome on Palatine Hill to see the Temple of Apollo and Flavian Palace, among other excavations. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Crowne Plaza Roma - St. Peter's Rome or similar.

SAT 17 MAY - Journey to the Alberobello Region

We travel east through the Campania

Kick back and sip delicious

Limoncello Sorrento, enjoy lunch picture-perfect

Mountains and the orange and olive groves of Puglia near the Adriatic Coast, our home for the next two nights. This evening, we enjoy a delicious local dinner at our hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Hotel: Hotel Sierra Silvana Alberobello or similar.

Limoncello di Sorrento, enjoy lunch in this picture-perfect town or spend the a ernoon soaking up la dolce vita.

limestone houses of Alberobello take centre stage during our guided tour with a local specialist. Here, we’ll see the UNESCO-listed collection of almost 1,500 trulli dating back to the 14th century. This evening, we connect with locals with a Be My Guest experience at a traditional masseria. Meet Signor Luciano for dinner on his Alberobello farm where you can taste seasonal produce, including fresh almonds, cherries, tomatoes and olive oil.

Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest. Hotel: Hotel Sierra Silvana Alberobello or similar.

MON 19 MAY - Onwards to Sunny Sorrento

di Sorrento, enjoy lunch in this picture-perfect town or spend the afternoon soaking up la dolce vita. This evening we dine in a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Hotel: Grand Hotel Cesare Augusto or similar.

TUE 20 MAY - A Day on the Isle of Capri

SUN 18 MAY - Admire Alberobello’s iconic architecture and connect with locals Enjoy a leisurely morning on your own. Consider an optional experience or indulge in delectable local flavours at a traditional

The fresh aroma of lemons is your constant companion in the stunning coastal town of Sorrento, your home for the next two nights. View the bustling Piazza Tasso and Corso Italia before spending the rest of the day on your own. Kick back and sip delicious Limoncello

Cruise the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea to the beautiful Isle of Capri. Enjoy a guided tour of Capri town, watching the beautiful people sip their cappuccino in the glamorous piazzetta. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Grand Hotel Cesare Augusto or similar. Continued over...

WED 21 MAY - Uncover Pompeii's Ruins and on to Assisi Stays with Stories

Explore the tragic history of the ancient lost city of Pompeii with a local specialist. Gain a deeper understanding of what life was like in this Roman settlement that lay buried for centuries after Mount Vesuvius erupted. Continue your journey through the rolling green and golden fields of Umbria, arriving at the mystical hilltop town of Assisi. Meet your local specialist for a visit of the stunning Basilica of St. Francis, featuring exquisite frescoes by Giotto. We'll stay at one of Trafalgar's Stays With Stories - a fully renovated old Franciscan monastery. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Hotel: Hotel Cenacolo Assisi or similar.

THU 22 MAY - Onwards to Verona and Venice Stays With Stories

We venture to the Adriatic Coast bound for Venice. A city like no other in the world, you'll explore its canals and waterways during your time on the islands of the Venetian Lagoon, home to the artistic tradition of blown glass. Our home for the next two nights is one of Trafalgar’s Stays With Stories. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Hyatt Centric Murano Venice or similar.

FRI 23 MAY - Cruise the Canals of VeniceMake Travel Matter

This morning start the day by observing the delicate craft of Venetian glassblowing that spans centuries. Your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience helps to preserve the traditions that have been handed down through the generations and you’ll be inspired to buy a souvenir to remind you of the talent and skill shared enthusiastically by the master craftsmen. Next you’ll glide by private launch along busy waterways to view the Bridge of Sighs, Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica before spending the afternoon exploring the city on your terms. Stroll along the Grand Canal, nibble on delicious cicchetti at a cosy bacaro or cross the lagoon for an optional experience on the colourful fishermen Island of Burano. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Hyatt Centric Murano Venice or similar.

You’ll glide by private launch along busy waterways to view the Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica before spending the a ernoon exploring the city on your terms.

Verona and view the Roman arena build in the 1st century and famously used for opera these days. We spend this afternoon on the quiet shores of Lake Maggiore, soaking up the pleasant lakeside atmosphere and exploring Baveno. An optional experience takes you to dinner in an iconic setting on Lake Maggiore. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Hotel Simplon Baveno or similar.

SAT 24 MAY - Journey to Northern Trento

Celebrate the epic tale of Romeo and Juliet during this morning's visit to the fair city of

SUN 25 MAY - Explore Milan and on to the Italian Lakes

Relax on the shores of Lake Maggiore or take an optional experience to the Borromean

Walk across the Ponte Vecchio that has straddled over the Arno River for almost 700 years, or wander through the Renaissance Boboli Gardens, stopping for a slice or two of schiacciata along the way.

Islands and soak up the incredible beauty of the Italian Lakes. Later, experience the fashion capital of Milan. Enjoy free time to explore on your own after an orientation of the city's iconic sights. See the exquisite Gothic Duomo, La Scala Opera House and the Galleria, one of the world's oldest shopping malls. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Hotel: Hotel Simplon Baveno or similar.

MON 26 MAY - Onwards to La Spezia

Enjoy a relaxed morning in the lakeside resort town of Stresa. Later, travel to the port city of La Spezia on the Ligurian Coast. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Hotel Firenze & Continentale La Spezia or similar.

TUE 27 MAY - La Spezia Your Way

Indulge in a full free day to soak up the laidback atmosphere. Stroll along the waterfront or consider joining an optional experience to Porto

Venere and the Bay of Poets where you’ll embark on an encounter with the cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre. This evening, we dine locally. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Hotel: Hotel Firenze & Continentale La Spezia or similar.

WED 28 MAY -

Uncover Pisa and on to Florence Travelling south through the unforgettable scenery of Tuscany, we arrive in Pisa to view its famous Leaning Tower before continuing to the Renaissance city of Florence. This afternoon is yours at leisure to wander through the grand squares and labyrinthine lanes of Florence, one of the world's most cultural centres. Consider a visit to the Academy of Fine Arts to see Michelangelo's statue of David, amble along the Arno River or ascend the stone steps up to Piazzale Michelangelo for spectacular views of the city. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Grand Mediterraneo or similar.

THU 29 MAY - Discover Renaissance Florence

Join a local specialist this morning to view the

city's finest masterpieces – the magnificent Duomo, Giotto's Bell Tower and the 13thcentury Santa Croce Basilica, the final resting place of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli. Later, learn about the quality and workmanship of two of this city's historic industries at demonstrations of Florentine leathercraft and 18-carat gold. Then, spend the rest of the afternoon on your own. Walk across the Ponte Vecchio that has straddled over the Arno River for almost 700 years, or wander through the Renaissance Boboli Gardens, stopping for a slice or two of schiacciata along the way. Meals: Breakfast. Hotel: Grand Mediterraneo or similar.

FRI

30

MAY - All Roads Lead to Rome

Diving into culture today we journey past the sprawling vineyards of Chianti and beneath the hilltowns of Umbria before arriving in Rome. This evening we tour the extraordinary Vatican Museums with a local specialist, including views of Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner. Hotel: Shangri-La or similar.

SAT 31 MAY - TRAVEL TO SYDNEY

SUN 01 JUN

MON 02 JUN - SYDNEY TO PORT MACQUARIE

On arrival in Port Macquarie you will be transferred to your home.

To find out more or to book this tour please contact the team at, Port Travel 4/114 William St, Port Macquarie. Phone: (02) 6583 1422

In August 2004 the first meeting of interested paddlers was held and Flamiin’ Dragons was formed and here we are 20 years on! Initially activities were held on the Hastings River at the end of Oakes Crescent, then Settlement Point and finally Port Marina where club members voted to stay and develop the facility into the structure it is today. This facility is the envy of every other club on the North Coast and some Sydney clubs. In 2005 we participated in the Chinese New Year Festival at Darling Harbour

and there have been very few years since then that we haven’t participated. In 2006 we conducted the first Regional Regatta in NSW, initially at McInherney Park and more recently at Rocks Ferry Reserve. This year we had 19 participating clubs which culminated in approximately 600 tourists coming to Port Macquarie.

In 2019 we received the Dragon Boats NSW Club of the Year Award. This was a well deserved award for our dedicated club members who work as volunteers and officials

DRAGONS 20 YEARS

Flamin’ of

at accredited regattas plus the involvement of our paddlers at all levels of competition. Our club has always had state and regional representatives which reflects their dedication and desire to participate at a high level.

Our first AusDBF Australian representatives were Yvonne Couper and Kris Waters back in 2009. Our club also has a strong commitment to community and we provide sessions for several local schools, the Diverging Pathways Physio group and Invictus Australia. Each year we also take part in the Australia Day Aquatic Activities providing dragon boat demonstrations. We are about to embark on a recruitment campaign on Saturday 14th September where we hope to boost the number of younger paddlers and men to help bolster our very strong core of current paddlers.

TOXTAILS

The Toxtails event has become a beacon of hope and community spirit over the past three years, bringing together local residents, businesses, and advocates in support of Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services. Since its inception in 2022, Toxtails, proudly run by Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic, has raised over $120,000 for Liberty, reflecting the incredible generosity and dedication of our community in supporting this vital cause.

In its inaugural year, Toxtails raised funds to support local women and children experiencing domestic and family violence by donating all event proceeds to local charity Liberty. With live music, delicious food from local vendors, and a live auction featuring unique items, the event harnessed the community's enthusiasm setting the stage for future success.

By the second year, Toxtails had expanded to include more local companies and donors. With increased sponsorships and a nearly doubled attendance, the event was able to grow its support for Liberty's specialist domestic and family violence services and its services in our community.

This past year, Toxtails reached new heights, with record-breaking attendance and donations. The

overwhelming generosity of our community contributed to a number of new initiatives for Liberty focused on prevention, education, and long-term support for survivors. These funds have been directly used to benefit families in the local community, providing critical services and resources that have made a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence.

As we prepare for the next Toxtails event, we invite you to join us in supporting Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services. We are actively seeking new sponsors and donors for the 2025 event, which will be held on March 1st. Donating guarantees an invitation to this exclusive event, where tickets cannot be bought but must be gifted. Your contributions are vital in helping Liberty continue its important work providing safety, support, and empowerment to those affected by domestic violence. Together, we can ensure that Toxtails remains not only a beloved community event but also a powerful enabler of change and healing in our local community.

To be involved (from a business or even personal perspective) please email us at toxtailsdonations@ gmail.com

Love, Dr Kristy, the PMAC team, and Liberty.

CHARLIE FACTORY AND THE Chocolate

Join us for an extraordinary voyage inside Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, where Charlie, Grandpa Joe and the rest of the lucky golden ticket winners embark on a journey through a world of pure imagination. This enchanting production, featuring an original score by Marc Shaiman and captivating lyrics from Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray), brings Roald Dahl’s timeless classic to life like never before.

With two student casts and a live orchestra composed of both students and local professionals, each performance offers a unique experience filled with

wonder and excitement. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this magical adventure!

Performances run from October 24th to 27th, promising an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. Secure your tickets now and step into the whimsical world of Willy Wonka. Don’t miss out. Tickets are on sale now via the QR code below. Book early to avoid disappointment!

GEORGE

SARGE

SARGENT

Meet George ‘Sarge’ Sargent and Hope Endean; the new kids on the block at Southern Cross Austereo. You can catch Hope on HIT Mid North Coast 9-12 weekdays, and Sarge will be getting us up and at it on Triple M Breakfast from 6-9 weekdays.

Hey Sarge. What excites you most about taking on the breakfast host role at Triple M Mid North Coast?

Honestly, it feels like I’ve hit the jackpot! Hosting a breakfast show has been on my bucket list forever, and to do it here, in one of the most stunning spots on the planet, pinch me, I must be dreaming! I’m pumped to keep the vibes rolling, explore all the hidden gems around the Mid North Coast, and kick off a new era in breakfast radio. Following in the footsteps of Strawny’s 30-year legacy is no small feat, but I’m ready to make this show as legendary as a sunrise surf at Flynn’s Beach.

How do you plan to bring your own energy and personality to the morning show in Port Macquarie?

Between 6 and 9 every weekday morning it is going to be an absolute party - celebrating locals, giving away prizes and playing your favorite hits. The second you turn on Triple M Breakfast you’ll be buzzing before you take a sip of your morning coffee. I’ve been

entertaining ever since I was in nappies; fast forward 24 years and I’m still doing exactly that, just not in nappies!

You’ve been described as one of radio’s best rising talents. What do you think sets you apart as a radio presenter?

The opportunity I’ve been given to be creative, unique and authentic with the listeners for three hours every day is something I’ll never take for granted.

That is very kind of you to say. Radio is such a passion of mine and I’d hardly call it work. It’s just so much fun. The opportunity I’ve been given to be creative, unique and authentic with the listeners for three hours every day is something I’ll never take for granted. This is not MY show, it's OUR show. The listeners and guests are the cohosts, and I think that will be the recipe for a successful program.

As someone who loves the coast and the country, what do you enjoy most about living and working in Port Macquarie?

I enjoy being so close to our beautiful beaches, strolling through the picturesque

town centre, experiencing the lovely restaurants, pubs/clubs, testing out the top tier camping spots and most importantly living in NSW again after three years in cane toad territory.

What are some of your goals for your first year as the Breakfast host on Triple M Mid North Coast?

I’m getting out of the studio and hitting the streets - Thrumster’s great, but I want to be where the action is! I’m on a mission to meet as many listeners as possible, shake some hands, share some laughs, and maybe even score a few invites to your favorite local spots. My ultimate goal is to make the show feel like a morning hangout with your best mates, where we can all escape the daily grind, have a laugh, rock out to some killer tunes, and maybe even bag some sweet prizes along the way.

Thanks George.

HOPE Endean

Hey Hope. 2024 has been a big year for you, landing a full-time gig at Hit Mid North Coast. How has the transition to this new role been for you?

Moving to the Mid North Coast and landing a gig at HIT has been an absolute dream! The team at SCA are incredible and the office and the whole community on the coast has embraced me. I feel so lucky to have this opportunity in the most beautiful part of the country.

What was it like receiving an ACRA nomination for Best New Talent – On Air? How did it feel to be recognised?

Being nominated for a radio award last year at just 19 years old was an absolute shock! I love radio and I am passionate about the industry. To be recognised in a room full of my idols was surreal! Plus, I got a sneaky selfie with Jacki O which was pretty cool! What has been the biggest learning curve for you since starting at SCA earlier this year?

I get so many fun callers every day and getting to be a small part of their day is the best, but it’s something I hadn’t really experienced before, but I am absolutely loving!

a passion for a long time. What inspired you to pursue this path? What do you love most about working in radio?

The biggest learning curve for me has been getting to know the local community. I get so many fun callers every day and getting to be a small part of their day is the best, but it’s something I hadn’t really experienced before, but I am absolutely loving!

Creative media, especially radio, has been

This is a bit of a fun story actually! I knew I always wanted to do something fun and creative when I left school, but it wasn’t until I was 15 working at the local fruit and veg grocer in my hometown of Grafton that I really decided. Working after school, and mopping the floor every night laughing out loud to Nova’s night show at the time ‘Kate, Tim and Marty’, and knew I wanted to have just as much fun as they did! I guess the rest is history…

What are some of your goals for your role as a workday announcer at Hit Mid North Coast?

I want to make the show as loud and local as possible! I want people to get a slice of the Mid North Coast every time they tune in; whether they’re a tourist driving through the area, or a long time local! I always love getting involved locally and I’ve had some great opportunities this year already - from participating in this year’s Stars Of The Hastings, to presenting an award at the Port Macquarie Business Awards, and even speaking on a youth panel at Luminosity at the Glasshouse. The MNC is my home and that’s how I want people to feel in my show 9-12 weekdays on HIT FM.

Thanks Hope

SStand

out from

e crowd COMFORT AND STYLE

in comfort and style with a pair of ZETA SANDALS!

ummer can’t come soon enough, so while we all look forward to sunshine and moments of relaxation, why not shop for a new pair of sandals you’ll want to live in all season at Colonial Cobbler. Quality European shoe manufacturer Zeta has begun releasing their new season summer sandals in an array of colours, awe-inspiring patterns and styles. Zeta Shoes is an exclusive collection of stylish, vibrant, Spanish-made shoes designed to make you stand out from the crowd. With stunning multicolours and pastels, Zeta

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About the book:

Some memories are buried for a reason ...

The most painful of Evie Cormac’s memories have been locked away, ever since she was held prisoner as a child - a child whose rescue captured hearts and headlines.

Forensic psychologist Cyrus Haven’s mission is to guide her to something near normality. But today, on a British beach, seventeen bodies wash up in front of them. There is only one survivor, with two women still missing. And Evie’s nightmares come roaring back.

Collins Booksellers Port Macquarie is locally owned and operated

64 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie 2444

Phone: 5590 0797

Email: portmacquarie@collinsbooks.com.au

Socials: collinsbooksportmacquarie

“Lose yourself in a good book and let your mind wander”

Michael Robotham Wine and Cheese at Sunset

Sunday, 22nd September, 5pm – 7pm

Florence Jones, 74 Clarence Street

$85pp, includes wine, cheese and book: STORM CHILD

Join us for an exclusive Wine and Cheese at Sunset evening with Michael Robotham, Australia’s #1 bestselling and award-winning master of crime. Michael is currently touring Australia talking about his new book STORM CHILD.

Michael is a former feature writer and investigative reporter who has worked in Britain, Australia and America. His debut thriller, The Suspect, introduced clinical psychologist Joe O’Loughlin and sold over one million copies worldwide, launching a nine-book series. Michael’s standalone thriller The Secrets She Keeps has also been the basis of two BBC TV series.

He has twice won the prestigious UK Crime Writers’ Association Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel, as well as the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger for When She Was Good.

*Note: As numbers are strictly limited, call us on 5590 0797 to secure your ticket.

PORT MACQUARIE

KART Racing

Port Macquarie Kart Racing Club will be hosting the Karting Australia NSW Championships on the 27th-29th September. Over 200 competitors from all corners of Australia are expected to be in Port Macquarie for New South Wales’ most prestigious title in kart racing, so club president Ben Moylan welcomes you to come and check it out!

Can you give us an overview of the Karting Australia NSW State Championships and what it means for Port Macquarie and the karting community?

The Karting Australia NSW State Championships are a big deal for us here in Port Macquarie. Hosting this event is a huge honour and it puts us on the map as a top-tier destination for motorsport. For the karting community, it’s more than just a race; it’s a chance to showcase the best talent from across the state and bring our local scene into the spotlight. It also gives us a boost in terms of local tourism and pride, proving that we’re serious about karting and have the capacity to pull off an event of this scale.

Spectators can expect to see some of the fastest, most intense racing around, with drivers pushing both their karts and themselves to the limit.

We’re going to see a wide range of experience and backgrounds on the track. We’ve got everything from seasoned pros who’ve been racing for years to young guns who are just starting to make a name for themselves. This diversity adds a lot of depth to the competition. It’s not just about raw speed; it’s about strategy, adaptability, and how well you can handle the pressure. Karting is an inclusive sport, and this event will really show that anyone, regardless of where they come from, can get in there and compete.

With drivers from as young as 7 years old to those in their 50s, how will the races be structured and who is welcome to get involved?

competitive racing, and we’re not just looking for drivers; we welcome anyone who wants to get involved, whether it’s as a volunteer, an official, or even just as a fan. Karting is for everyone, and there’s a place for you here if you’re passionate about the sport.

KZ2 Gearbox is known as the elite level of kart racing. What can spectators expect from this category, and how does it elevate the competition?

The KZ2 Gearbox category is the top of the line when it comes to kart racing. If you’re looking for pure, unfiltered competition, this is where you’ll find it. Spectators can expect to see some of the fastest, most intense racing around, with drivers pushing both their karts and themselves to the limit. This category demands the highest level of skill and precision, and it really sets the tone for the entire event. It’s the kind of racing that gets your adrenaline pumping, whether you’re behind the wheel or watching from the sidelines.

With over 200 competitors expected, how diverse is the field in terms of experience and backgrounds?

There are structured races to cater to all age groups and engine sizes, from kids as young as 7 in the Cadet classes to veterans in their 50s in the Masters categories.They run a number of heats over the weekend ending with a final on the Sunday. Each class is carefully matched to ensure fair and

What are the unique challenges and thrills of racing at speeds approaching 160kph, especially when drivers are just millimeters from the ground?

Racing at speeds close to 160kph is no joke. Some of our cadets reach speeds of 100km

down the straight. When you’re that close to the ground, every little move matters. The challenge comes from the need for absolute focus and split-second decision-making. You’ve got to be on top of your game because the margin for error is razor-thin. But that’s also where the thrill comes in. It’s about mastering control in an environment that’s pushing you to your limits. That’s what makes karting so intense and addictive.

How is the Port Macquarie track suited for such a prestigious event?

Our track in Port Macquarie is built for this kind of high-calibre event. It’s got a great mix of fast straights and technical corners that test a driver’s skill in every aspect in a pretty unique setting. The layout provides opportunities for overtaking and strategic racing, making it a perfect venue for the NSW State Championships. Plus, we’ve got an amazing group of committee members and volunteers who have been working hard to make sure we have got the facilities to back it up, ensuring everyone, from competitors to spectators, has a top-notch experience.

We understand that many current and former Australian Champions will be competing. How does their participation influence the level of competition and excitement?

Having current and former Australian Champions in the mix cranks up the

For the younger drivers and upand-comers, it’s an invaluable opportunity to learn from the best in the business. And for the fans, it makes for some of the most exciting racing you’ll see.

competition to a whole new level. These guys and girls bring their A-game, and it forces everyone else to step up or get left behind. It’s not just about winning; it’s about competing against the best and seeing where you stand. For the younger drivers and upand-comers, it’s an invaluable opportunity to learn from the best in the business. And for the fans, it makes for some of the most exciting racing you’ll see.

What are your hopes and expectations for the future of kart racing in Port Macquarie after hosting such a significant event?

After hosting an event like this, I’m confident that kart racing in Port Macquarie is only going to grow. We’re showing that we have what it takes to host top-tier events, and that’s going to attract more interest and investment in the sport locally. My hope is that this momentum will carry forward, leading to more members, more events, and continued improvements in our facilities. We have some really great talent coming out

of the area. The future looks bright, and I’m excited to see where we go from here. For those interested in getting involved in kart racing, what advice or opportunities does the Port Macquarie Kart Racing Club offer?

We have a Club weekend coming up on the 14th and 15th September and the Junior Sprockets event straight after the NSW State Titles on the 30th September. If you’re thinking about getting into kart racing, the best advice I can give is to just dive in. Come down to the track, talk to us, and see what it’s all about. Whether you want to race or volunteer – we are always looking for motivated helpers, or just be part of the community, there’s a place for you here. The Port Macquarie Kart Racing Club is all about fostering a love for the sport. Follow us on Facebook or check out our website https:// pmkc.com.au/ . Just take that first step—you won’t regret it.

Thanks Ben.

BOATSHED & MARINA Dunbogan

Locally owned and operated by the delightful Kristy and Malcolm Bell, Dunbogan Boatshed & Marina has become a bustling meeting place for coffee and cakes and light snacks, boat hire and picking up your bait and tackle as well as fish feeding from the picturesque jetty.

Open 9am to 4pm, 7 days a week, this peaceful spot by the river is all you need to unwind with a great coffee and watch the many boats, fish and dolphins float by. Dunbogan Boatshed is nestled on the banks of the Camden Haven River. Built in the 1940’s the establishment still carries the same charm of an old boat shed. Enjoy coffee

and treats and lots of relaxed seating on the deck. You can also hire a kayak, stand-up paddle board or BBQ boat for your next outdoor adventure as well as enjoying the tranquil marina with modern facilities. Locals and tourists can enjoy a quality coffee

Locals and tourists can enjoy a quality coffee on the deck, while they soak up the view of the yachts on the water, with the back drop of North Brother mountain.

on the deck, while they soak up the view of the yachts on the water, with the back drop of North Brother mountain. The location is breaktaking! You may even catch sight of a dolphin feeding amongst the nearby reeds, while you feed the fish from the deck. Remember to bring your camera!

‘Trail Blazers’Hello Koalas

Hello Koalas embarked on its journey in 2013 to create a Trail of 50 one metre high fibreglass koala sculptures hand-painted by local artists, selected from over 200 submissions.

Focus published an editorial entitled ‘Trail Blazers’, recognising the Community Champions who came on board as sponsors for the innovative Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, from September 2014 to December 2015.

The NSW Premier came to Port Macquarie to launch the Trail on 8 September 2014 at the invitation of local MP Leslie Williams. Fifty Hello Koalas spanned across Emerald Downs Golf Course for photos before being dispersed across Greater Port Macquarie, taking the community by surprise, as the truck winded its way around town with brightly painted koala sculptures smiling in the back.

(Panorama Photo Lindsay Moller Productions) BBC Worldwide reported on its Travel Show to 70 million viewers that Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail was “one of the 6 best things to do around the world for September”!

The Trail has grown to 90 Hello Koalas sculptures and has commissioned 69 artists to paint the designs, including local creatives Pauline Roods, Francessca O’Donnell, Lisa Burrell, Leanne Prussing, Fiona Morgan, Fran Barratt, Tristan Murray, Patricia Philp, Yvonne Kiely, Isabell Moran, Beverley Coleman, Beric Henderson, Kim McLean, Rebekah Brown, Wendy Stokes and Kim and Wayne Staples. Each fibreglass Hello Koalas sculpture has been made by industrial artist John Belfield who originally lived in Sydney and moved to Johns River in 2017 to set up a fibreglass factory.

Many original ‘Trail Blazers’ continue to be

stalwart ‘Community Champions’ including Forestry Corporation of NSW, KFC, BP Service Centre, Port Macquarie Airport, ABC Mid North Coast, NSW Trains, Rydges and Sails Hotels, and McDonalds.

Hello Koalas is very excited to be creating our 91st sculpture in bronze commissioned by Brett and Jacqui Jones for McDonalds’ new restaurant at 205 Lake Road. This will be their 3rd sponsored Hello Koalas sculpture.

Serendipitously, our new Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop is just around the corner. We are creating a unique merchandise range to feature our beautiful bronze artwork.

We have also commissioned a 50cm bronze sculpture which will be on show in our Hello Koalas Gallery together with 50cm fibreglass sculptures painted by Pauline Roods and Lisa Burrell, inspired by their designs for their larger sculptures. These 50cm sculptures will be released for sale in special editions.

When we moved premises in May to Shop 2/1A Blackbutt Road, nestled between The Seed Art School and Romer Locks, we envisaged a well-appointed gift shop with high quality koala themed merchandise and bespoke Hello Koalas gifts featuring our iconic sculptures.

Under the expert eye of Retail Manager Vicki Eslick, we work with local suppliers and buy Australian made wherever possible, such as our Hello Koalas jigsaw puzzles (Queensland) and our linen kitchenware (Victoria).

Hello Koalas calendars, colouring books, notebooks, children’s books and bookmarks are printed locally. ‘Paint your own Hello

Koalas’ plaster sets are hand-made in the Hunter. Our exclusive Port Macquarie Monopoly edition includes a silver koala token using our proprietary Hello Koalas digital design. This Port Macquarie edition of Monopoly is the only one in the world with a koala token, so it is a real collector’s item! All proceeds from Monopoly sales go to Hello Koalas educational programs and enabled the creation of our ‘Big Koala’ for Guulabaa, Place of Koala, an innovative tourism project in the Cowarra State Forest, corner of Oxley Highway and Burrawan Forest Drive.

This 2.5 metre high Big Koala, made by John Belfield and painted by Pauline Roods, won Gold for ‘Best Landmark Sculpture in Australia’ in the 2023 Australian Street Art Awards. Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail also won ‘Best Sculpture Trail in Australia’ (Gold 2022, Silver 2023).

Special thanks to Regional Australia Bank for their sponsorship which also enabled the creation of this iconic public artwork for locals and visitors to enjoy. Over the past year, 100,000 people have visited Guulabaa (www. guulabaaplaceofkoala.com.au).

Visit The Big Koala and take part in our annual Hello Koalas Festival Treasure Hunts on 25 & 26 September and 2 & 3 October – register online at www.hellokoalas.com/festival or visit Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop, Shop 2/1A Blackbutt Road, open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm. Enquiries info@hellokoalas.com or phone 0416 641 482.

See you soon and come and celebrate our 10th anniversary with us!

CELEBRATE

WEDNESDAY 25 SEPTEMBER & THURSDAY 26 SEPTEMBER, 9am - 4pm

WEDNESDAY 2 OCTOBER & THURSDAY 3 OCTOBER, 9am - 4pm

HELLO KOALAS SCULPTURE TRAIL

Established in September 2014, Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail encompasses 90 one metre high fibreglass koala sculptures and the 2.5 metre high Big Koala – hand-painted by local artists.

Hello Koalas sculpture designs promote special stories about arts and culture, heritage, the environment and the conservation of Australian wildlife, especially the koala.

The Big Koala, Spirit of All Koalas, sponsored by Regional Australia Bank, has been made by local industrial artist John Belfield and painted by local artist Pauline Roods. This iconic landmark for Greater Port Macquarie is located at Guulabaa, Place of Koala, a world-class tourism precinct which is being developed by Forestry Corporation of NSW in the Cowarra State Forest, o the Oxley Highway. (www. guulabaaplaceofkoala.com.au or www.facebook.com/ guulabaaplaceofkoala/

All registrants will receive a set of clues to follow on the Monday before each Treasure Hunt or the clues can be collected from Hello Koalas Gift Shop.

Post selfies of your Hello Koalas discoveries and win prizes! The best photos of The Big Koala will win a gift voucher from the Hello Koalas Gift Shop and all participants will receive a certificate of achievement for completing their Treasure Hunt.

#hellokoalas #hellokoalasfestival #hellokoalassculpturetrail

The Big Koala, with artist Pauline Roods, Hello Koalas Margret Meagher and industrial artist John Belfield, pictured beside WildNets at Guulabaa, Place of Koala.

2/1A Blackbutt Rd, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

‘Lady Lola had a Dream’ by Francessca O’Donnell, creator of the Hello Koalas sculpture ‘Lady Lola The Dancing Koala’ at the Glasshouse.

FRANKIES

Fun vibes, delicious food and sunny mornings!

Our space has been created to share with you! Yes YOU!

With a fun team and delicious menu why wouldn’t you want to come down and enjoy it with us!

Our burgers are fantastic and a great reason to forget your lunch during the work week, not to mention the most delicious and

freshest salads.

Fresh juices are perfect for these warm spring days or treat yourself to an iced coffee or chocolate. Come and check out our cabinet of amazing sweet treats and pair any great cake with a great coffee.

Open 7 days a week from 6:30am till 3:00pm Closed Public Holidays

Drift

BAR CAFE RESTAURANT

Drift into comfort this season at Port City Bowling Club’s Drift Restaurant, where culinary delight meets cosy ambience! Whether you are seeking a hearty meal to chase away the winter chill or a light flavourful dish to enjoy with friends before a night out

dancing, Drift can cater to every palate! Our updated menu also features refreshed club classics and a full vegetarian menu tailored for the season. Don’t forget to check out our weekly specials offering great budget friendly options throughout the week.

Bago Tavern

DISH Sesame crusted salmon

ABOUT Popular with locals and out of town families our Wauchope restaurant and bar is a comfortable place to catch up with mates over a drink, leisurely lunch or dinner. bagotavern.com.au

The Stunned Mullet

DISH Seared scallops, corn salsa, jalapeño, boudin noir, potato gem

ABOUT The Stunned Mullet has held a Good Food Guide Chefs Hat since 2013, Trip Advisor Best of the Best rating since 2020, plus Gourmet Traveller Wine List of the Year’s rating of 3 Glasses since 2018. thestunnedmullet.com.au

Finnians

DISH Chicken Parmy, chips and salad

ABOUT A modern twist on a classical Irish Tavern. Finnian's boasts Port Macquarie’s most scrumptious cuisine, so if you're looking for a spot for a delicious lunch or dinner, Finnians is it! finnians.com.au

Port Macquarie Golf Club

DISH Seafood Laksa

ABOUT The Fairway where we combine scenic views with mouthwatering cuisine. Our restaurant promises a perfect blend of delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere. portmacquariegolf.com.au

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and vote for your favourite dish

Boardwalk Bristo - LUSC

DISH Roasted Pumpkin & Quinoa

ABOUT The Boardwalk Bistro has something for everyone from succulent steak and fresh seafood, to burgers, pizzas and delicious salads. Dining specials or our a-la-carte lunch and dinner. laurietonclub.com.au

DISH Crispy Porchetta Burger

ABOUT Our space has been created to share with you! Yes YOU! With a fun team, delicious menu why wouldn’t you want to come down and enjoy it with us!

frankiesportmacquarie.com.au

Laurieton Hotel

DISH Pepper Crusted Sirloin, smashed chats, broccolini, garlic mushrooms and cress with a red wine jus.

ABOUT Laurieton Hotel is a vibrant family owned and operated hotel nestled right in the middle of the beautiful surfing and fishing village of Laurieton. laurietonhotel.com.au

Drift Bar · Cafe · Restaurant

DISH Middle Eastern Spiced Lamb Shank

ABOUT Located in Port City Bowling Club, Drift brings you simple food done well, where every ingredient on the plate can be a hero and will make your taste buds sing!

portcity.com.au

Ifocus contributor.

Palate

with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

t can never be emphasised enough that all successful experiences in life are all about the whole package. Something very special happens when all the elements come together as if by magic, or extreme luck at the very least. It’s like a great day out at the beach when the conditions are just perfect – the sun is shining, it’s warm with a light breeze and the tide is high. You can’t help but feel extreme gratitude to the forces of nature at play that came together so perfectly to create this optimum environment.

Moments like these are the life affirming and soul uplifting boosts that we need. Memories of them keep a smile in our hearts and fortify us to get through the times when things perhaps don’t go as well.

Although it’s always possible to harness our optimism in situations that lack such obvious merits and make the best of the less than ideal aspects, to let our stoic human nature and survival skills kick in, it is nevertheless wonderful when things just seem to work out well.

When it comes to Mother Nature of course, we have no control over the outcome apart from choosing to remain indoors when the weather is inclement.

Luckily for us all though, there are other

eat Atmosere

The

situations where we can harness the power to influence the elements to best attain the happy times we crave.

For example, when it comes to the restaurant experience we can do our best to get all the aspects of the dining experience right – great food, excellent drinks, warm and efficient service, and inviting ambience.

Now the top three of these - food, drinks and service are an absolute no brainer when it comes to things we need to get right to ensure maximum customer satisfaction. Yet the fourth element, that of ambience is often overlooked.

Just as the warm, sunny and not too windy day is crucial for our beach day – so is the right kind of atmosphere in a restaurant. Loud music? Great for the diners that are thinking to head to a nightclub next, but perhaps not for the majority who want to have an actual conversation with their fellow diners.

Ditto, bad acoustics. When a room is too bare and echoey and it can be difficult to talk without yelling over the ambient noise in the room. The list goes on for things that can really ruin your night – too hot or cold, draughty table, too bright or too dim, uncomfortable furniture, indoor vs alfresco…. There’s really a lot to think about, and like everything perception is utterly subjective

and one person’s ‘romantic mood lighting’ is another one’s - ‘so dark I literally couldn’t see what I was eating’.

Feeling comfortable – both physically and in a sensory way cannot be underestimated in any situation, but when looking forward to a special night out, its importance is paramount. Not enjoying any aspect of a restaurant’s ambience on a previous occasion is just as huge a factor in making a decision to dine on a subsequent occasion, as is ordering a dud main course.

Essentially the room has to feel as welcoming as your living room, whilst being able to attain a level of polish and flair that transforms you out of your everyday reality and into a somewhat stylish and sophisticated realm at the same time. No easy feat, getting the balance right and appealing to as many individuals as possible….

But a bit of TLC in this area goes a long way. Taking care to establish what kind of environment appeals to your customer demographic, combined with the overall statement you want your digs to make, plus a little tweaking to suit the busy shifts vs the quiet ones, vs the groups and the singles and couples goes a long way.

ITALIAN NIGHT

Every Tuesday from 5.30pm

TRIVIA AND SCHNITZEL NIGHT

Every Wednesday from 5.30pm

SEAFOOD NIGHT & PUTT FOR DOUGH

Every Thursday from 5.30pm

MEAT & SEAFOOD RAFFLES

Every Friday from 6pm

MEMBER’S BADGE DRAW

Fridays at 6.30pm and 8pm

SUNDAY ROAST

Every Sunday from 1130am

HAPPY HOUR

Schooners & House Wines | $5.50

Every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday from 4pm to 6pm

COURTESY BUS

Restaurant opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 11.30am to 2pm & 5.30pm to 8pm Sunday – 11.30am to 2.30pm Port Macquarie Golf Club 700 Ocean Drive Port Macquarie NSW 2444 reception@portmacquariegolf.com.au | (02) 6582 0409

TUESDAY 5 NOVEMBER, 12PM $95 per person

• 3 course meal

Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 5pm Tickets available from the Golf Club reception, or by phone 6582 04099 www.portmacquariegolf.com.au

• 3hr beverage package including Tap Beer, Selected Wine and soft drink

• Prizes for Best Dressed

• Big screen showing all the race action

• TAB & Sweeps available

HELLO SAILOR'S

B A S T A R D O

This delightful concoction combines the essence of homemade spiced strawberry jam, the smoothness of 1800 Coconut Tequila, the brightness of orange liqueur, and the zesty kick of fresh lime juice. To elevate the experience, the rim is artfully coated with a house-made coconut salt, adding an unexpected yet harmonious touch.

THE JAMMY BASTARDO IS A COCKTAIL THAT TAKES THE SWEET AND SAVOURY ROUTE TO AN EXTRAORDINARY LEVEL.

The Jammy Bastardo is a cocktail that instantly grabs attention. The first sip greets you with a burst of luscious strawberry jam, accentuated by warm spices that add complexity without overpowering the drink’s fruity profile. The coconut tequila brings a subtle creaminess and exotic undertones, while the orange liqueur introduces a layer of citrus that complements the strawberry’s natural sweetness. Ideal for the sweet toothed among us, this cocktail is sure to leave you craving another.

Ta ing Nes

As the flavours develop on your palate, the lime juice provides a balancing tartness, ensuring each sip is as refreshing as the first. The house-made coconut salt rim adds a delightful crunch and a hint of savoury flavour, enhancing the overall experience and creating a unique contrast with the cocktail’s smooth, velvety texture.

Shaken and double-strained to perfection, the Jammy Bastardo is more than just a drink—it’s a symphony of flavours that plays with your senses.

Mid North Coast Cancer Institute

Great Togher

e Westport Club is excited to announce our upcoming ‘Great Together’ fundraising event during the month of October!

Our vision is to make a significant contribution to the quality of community life. For our club, this means looking for opportunities within our community in Port Macquarie to support projects that we can bring to life that wouldn’t otherwise happen. In previous years we have supported programs like Library Regeneration with Dymocks Children’s Charities, Kindness Curriculum for primary schools in the Hastings Region, and important equipment like the Sherlock Machine at Mid North Coast Cancer Institute. We also support several sub and affiliate clubs on an ongoing basis, ensuring they are able to connect as a community and enjoy likeminded activities.

Great Together to us, is one of these special projects that encompasses our very vision. It’s about bringing our community together and making life just that little bit greater even when circumstances and life are tough. The Great Together campaign is in partnership with the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute, at Port Macquarie Base Hospital. After a previous project was delivered last year with MNCCI, we looked to further opportunities and ideas they wanted to bring to life to support the wellbeing of their local patients – and most importantly, ensure that money donated to this local campaign is given directly to this local resource.

The MNCCI is an integrated centre with expert teams of medical, nursing, allied health and administrative support staff who provide

WESTPORT EDIT

comprehensive support and services to meet the needs of patients being treated for all cancers. A service used by so many people within our community, and their families and support teams, during times of great uncertainty, stress, and fear for what is next. The Great Together campaign is aimed at lightening the heavy load experienced during these challenging times and creating wellness garden spaces at the MNCCI centre that allow patients, families and support people to escape the sterile hospital walls and connect in a tranquil relaxing space. We will also be including a yarning circle in the wellness garden project plans, creating a unique and culturally important place of connectedness for Indigenous Australians. Our plans are ambitious, but we hope that with the exciting fundraising plans we have for October, we can bring the wellness of garden spaces to life for the MNCCI very soon! Think luscious native plants, plenty of greenery, relaxing seating areas, and tranquil water fountains. These spaces will be used by so many, and we are looking forward to seeing the project progress.

To support our fundraising e orts for the campaign we are hosting several events at e Westport Club where all proceeds go directly to our MNCCI project.

directly to our MNCCI project. We begin October with a Charity Bowls Day on Saturday 5th. Get together a team of three and wear your best pink outfit – it will be an afternoon filled with plenty of fun and competition (no prior bowling experience needed!). On October 19th we are holding a Paint & Sip night in partnership with The Seed Art School, with nibbles, a glass of bubbles, and your painting essentials all included in the ticket price. We then close out the month with a major raffle on October 27th, with $6,000+ worth of prizes kindly donated by local businesses and organised by The Port Macquarie Bridge Club.

Tickets will be on sale from the beginning of October. We also are partnering with several of our local schools who we previously supported in funding the Kindness Curriculum, and holding a pink themed coloured clothes day where all donations are also driven back to the campaign fundraiser.

To support our fundraising efforts for the campaign we are hosting several events at The Westport Club where all proceeds go

More details on each event will be revealed very soon – keep an eye on our socials and stay tuned for a feature on each event in next month’s Focus magazine. We also have an exciting Great Together video launching very soon to celebrate this project and share some more on the important people who inspire our vision.

MALENY

DAIRIES

EXTENDING OUR REACH

From milk that tastes ‘just like it used to when we were kids,’ Maleny Dairies is an award-winning, family-owned and operated business committed to sustainability for people, place and products.

Twenty-four years ago, Ross and Sally Hopper made the courageous decision to build their own processing and bottling plant and purchase milk from local dairy farms. At the heart of their business is the commitment to ensuring a sustainable future for Australia’s dairy industry by paying a fair-

price to farmers for the highquality milk they produce.

More recently, Ross and Sally were provided the opportunity to expand their reach into New South Wales. “We’re delighted that more Australians will now have the opportunity to enjoy our products, allowing us to support more farmers, keeping our dairy industry alive”.

- Ross Hopper

arts and culture fe iv

Held over ten days during the spring school holidays, this diverse and exciting program is worthy of a day-trip or a mini-break close to home to immerse yourself in the different experiences on offer.

But this is not just a festival for arts lovers. It’s an opportunity to connect with friends and family over incredible free live music, contemporary dance, new theatre and workshops that tell authentic stories, impart new skills and reflect on the human experience.

The 2024 festival program focuses on events that are perfect for families with many events and exhibitions with free entry. We recommend kicking off the festival with the free First Night Street Party, an epic all-ages celebration headlined by Mitch Tambo. A unique and dynamic First Nations entertainer, known for

his powerful rendition of John Farnham’s iconic song ‘You’re the Voice’ the party will also feature mesmerising performances of Tower Divas, local acoustic-folk duo Chain Daisy, DJ’s, roving performers and gourmet food trucks.

If performances on stage take your fancy, Civic Theatre will play host to national touring acts during the festival, including Triple J favourite Middle Kids, and renowned contemporary dance company, Dancenorth Australia who will perform their new work, Wayfinder.

Bring your picnic rug to Global Gathering in Museum Park on Sat 5 October, for a free multicultural community day celebrating the diverse cultures of the region. Experience food demonstrations, live music, dance, workshops, and performances by world music favourites Ghana Road Show and Worlds Collide. Our top experiences for kids? The 9m high

SWING that will soar to new heights in Wheeler Place is sure to be a crowd favourite. Don’t miss Ten Minute Dance Parties, an all ages dance party in a shipping container, or WonderCity, a walking audio adventure tour that weaves throughout the CBD, and Whale Song, a parade of giant illuminated puppets on Newcastle Beach.

Check out visitnewcastle.com.au for more information on accommodation, restaurants and activities during your stay in Newcastle.

Photography by Amber Haines.

Manhattan

SHORT FILM FESTIVAL - THE WORLD’S FIRST GLOBAL FILM FESTIVAL

The Manhattan Short Film Festival is a one of a kind, worldwide event taking place in over 500 venues across six continents. The Glasshouse, Port Macquarie will be showcasing the 27th annual event on Saturday October 5th.

The final films selected represent the best short films from thousands of submissions from around the world, covering an extraordinary range of film genres. All are automatically Oscar-qualified. Focus had the pleasure of chatting to Melbourne based writers, directors and producers of Tandem Media production company Nick Russell and

Nick Musgrove whose Australian short film ‘Favourites’ has made the short list of just ten films chosen this year. Hello Nick and Nick. Thank you so much for your time and a huge congratulations to you both on this recognition. How do you feel knowing that your short film ‘Favourites’ has been selected as one of just ten finalists at this year’s Manhattan Short Film Festival - an amazing achievement?

Nick Russell: Thank you. It’s humbling and overwhelming to know that our film will reach a global audience. So much of the work we do in our careers is never seen. Knowing that 500 venues across six continents will be watching our film is really exciting! We’ve also seen some of the other films in this year’s Manhattan Short Film Festival and consider them to be world class. We’re pinching ourselves to be in their company. You never really know if what you’ve made is good enough or whether it will resonate with an audience, but to know that we are amongst this calibre of programming is really exciting! What do you think selectors look for when choosing the short list? I imagine originality, creativity, cinematography etc.?

Nick Musgrove: We have tried to read the tea leaves several times regarding what programmers might be looking for at a given festival. I think it’s a combination of things. A bit like curating an art exhibition, programmers may be looking for works about a chosen theme. Beyond that, I think programmers look for works that are legitimate shorts in their own right, as opposed to scenes from a yet to be made longer offering. We think a good short film has a distinct beginning,

middle and an end and sits best in that medium. Tell us a little about the narrative of ‘Favourites.’ What’s it all about and what are you hoping an audience takes away from viewing it?

We’ve also seen some of the other films in this year’s Manha an Short Film Festival and consider them to be world class. We’re pinching ourselves to be in their company.

Nick Russell: It’s difficult to talk about ‘Favourites’ because it is so short. It’s five minutes, in fact. So, without giving too much away, our film is about two parents who face an impossible decision when their family camping trip turns deadly. They’re forced to choose which of their two children to save in a life-or-death situation. That’s the set-up and the first half of our film. Then, something drastic happens and the goalposts move entirely. The family must then live with a new and uncomfortable reality. In terms of the genre of our short, it’s a very, very dark comedy. When people hear the ‘Sophie’s Choice’ style premise, it doesn’t sound very comedic, and it isn’t… but without giving too much away, things take a comical turn.

The cast line-up is off the charts. Renowned Australian actors Stephen Curry and Sibylla Budd lead the film. What was it like working with both of these esteemed artists and how did their involvement add to the success of the work?

Nick Musgrove: It was a dream to work with Stephen and Sibylla on our short film. We have been lucky enough to work with both across several of their projects in the past. The collaborations have always been wonderful, so it was a special moment to be able to call on them to perform in our work. We often say we named the film ‘Favourites’ because, really, we got to work with our favourite people; both cast and crew. Tony Briggs and Maria Angelico also sit firmly in that category – they’re supremely talented and wonderful to work with.

Both creatively and in terms of the profile of the film, our cast add so much. I watched in awe at the way they worked with Nick to find both

a dramatic and comedic edge in each moment. And of course, they’re all such beloved talent that people want to come and see the films they’re in. We feel humbled that they lent their names and their amazing talents to our short film.

What is on the horizon for you both and Tandem Media for the rest of this year and beyond?

Nick Russell: We’ve been overwhelmed by the response to ‘Favourites’. At other festivals we’ve attended, filmmakers, distributors and producers have asked whether there is a long form version of this story. Whilst Favourites is a short film in its own right with a beginning, middle and an end, given this response we’ve actually started to develop and are writing a feature length version. We are also working on developing another two tv shows and another feature film, along with some commercial work which our production company undertakes. We balance creative work and commercial work but more and more invest our time in the tv series and feature film space both here and in America. Thank you both.

Interview: Sarah Baker.

NICK

RUSSELL

NICK MUSGROVE

ROBERT BRANGWIN

Hi Robert. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at the Port Macquarie Astronomical Observatory?

I am the current President of the PMAA and have been so for the last five years. I joined the PMAA in 2010 and have been on the committee since 201213. Our role is to continue and improve on the legacy of Albert York and Jim Daniel’s astronomy outreach, taking astronomy and its related sciences to the public. This proud legacy is sixty two years old.

How long have you been working in this field and what first sparked your interest in astronomy?

I don’t work in this field, it is a hobby. Before moving to Port Macquarie, I lived on a farm northwest of Condobolin, and I grew up

Robert Brangwin is the President of the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association. We spoke to him about the new Astronomy & Science Centre at the Observatory and what it will be o ering the PMQ community as it reopens later this month.

with spectacular night skies. I had never lived in a town before moving here. Towns were something that glowed on the horizon at night.

At the time I started school, the Apollo program was underway and I always remember when I was in second class, a man came into our classroom, setting up a television, and we watched the Moon landing and Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin stepping onto the lunar surface. How could it not spark an interest? We had a pair of binoculars on the farm and many years later I got my first

My hobby developed much more a er joining the PMAA, at first showing visitors the night sky through the telescope, then doing presentations to the public sharing astronomical information.

telescope. My hobby developed much more after joining the PMAA, at first showing visitors the night sky through the telescope, then doing presentations to the public sharing astronomical information. The Observatory has had some exciting upgrades recently, can you share a bit about what’s been happening and what it will mean for the community? An upgrade is a bit of an understatement! It has been a demolition of the old decaying building and a completely new complex. We did save the original dome, and it has been relocated at

Moripo Park, where the members have been building a dark sky site. The new Observatory is four times larger than the old Observatory with a comfortable eighty seat auditorium, an exhibition area, and a larger dome. The dome will house up to four new telescopes, a fourteen-inch Schmidt Cassegrain and an 80mm refractor for looking through, an eleven-inch RASA for electronically enhanced observing and a 100mm hydrogen alpha telescope for observing the Sun.

What are you most looking forward to about opening the new space?

We intend to include more than just astronomical based science, although all sciences fit under the umbrella of astronomy.

Getting the place up and running and giving the public the opportunity to experience things that they would not normally experience. Giving members the opportunity to further their astronomical and science interests. While we have a terrific new building, we still have a lot to do to get it operating how we would like it. We intend to include more than just astronomical based science, although all sciences fit under the umbrella of astronomy. To quote Carl Sagen, “The cosmos is within us. We are made of star stuff. We are the way for the universe to know itself.”

Will there be an event to mark the

opening?

Yes, the opening will coincide with the weekend of the Spring Equinox. The Equinox is on Sunday the 22nd. At 11.00am on Friday there will be a public opening with Uncle Bill O’Brien performing a Welcome to Country ceremony and our State and Federal representatives, Leslie Williams and Pat Conaghan. On Friday evening and Saturday there will be presentations about the first astronomers. The PMAA believes that it is fitting that the first presentations will be about the first astronomers. The speakers, Bob Fuller, Duane Hamacher, Ray Norris, and Eleanor Gilbert are Australia’s leading communicators on Indigenous Astronomy. On the first, second and third of October Starr’s Planetarium will be onsite at the Observatory, and on 26 October there will be an astronomical opening by our patron Fred

Watson, Marnie Ogg and hopefully a couple of other professional astronomers.

The Observatory regularly welcomes members of the public to their telescope viewing evenings, can you tell us about these?

This has been the public face of the PMAA for 62 years. Astronomy outreach, wowing people with astronomical sights and information. This will continue once we are opened again, and we intend to build up to a bigger program in the future.

How else can the community engage with the Observatory for those interested in astronomy?

That is easy, become a member and participate, either by volunteering or in club events.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

Visit our new website, pmobservatory.org.au, email: admin@pmobservatory.org.au or our Facebook page.

Thanks Robert.

e Port Macquarie Makos Touch Football club had 8 club members; players, a coach and a referee, that were chosen to represent Australia at the World Cup (WC) in England this year. We think that is pre y incredible for a country association! We spoke to Peter Vincent about the experience and what he hopes it will mean for the club and everyone involved.

Hi Peter. Can you share a bit about your history with Touch Football and the Port Macquarie Makos Club?

I have been seriously involved with touch football for 38 years in regard to the representative level. I have had the pleasure and honour to play for, and coach NSW at State of Origin level and play for and coach Australia at an international level. This includes six World Cups (two as a player and four as a coach).

I moved to Port Macquarie in 1991 and have been involved with Port Touch since then as a player and as a coach, both at junior and senior level. This has been most rewarding as I have interacted with many quality players and quality people.

The club had a record number of players

representing at the World Cup this year. Could you tell us about the players and the referee that participated?

Port Touch had eight people involved in the World Cup in England this year. That is a tremendous effort for a country association.

# Tahney Luck (second WC) has been a mainstay of Port's Open Mixed sides and was successful with the Women's 35 side defeating England in the final 10-2.

I moved to Port Macquarie in 1991 and have been involved with Port Touch since then as a player and as a coach, both at junior and senior level.

and Matt Bale have also been influential in Port Open Mixed and Senior Mixed sides and were successful in the Senior Mixed side defeating New Zealand 10-9 in the final. This was Nick and Matt's international debuts. Nick was named Players Player in this side.

# Warren Lorger (third WC) has been a leading men's player for Port Touch for many years. He was a member of the Men's 40 side that played strongly but were defeated by New Zealand in the final 4-3.

# Koby Knight has been a successful Port player in Women's and Mixed for a significant amount of time. This was her international debut and she was in the

# Beau Montgomery (second WC), Nick Bale

PETER VINCENT

PORT MACQUARIE

Women's 40 side that defeated New Zealand 4-1 in the final.

Anna Gleeson was originally selected in this side but had to withdraw.

# Peter Vincent has been a long time Port representative player and coach. He coached the Men's 50 side that defeated New Zealand 8-2 in the final.

# Greg Oaten has been a Referee and Referees’ Director for Port Touch for many years and was selected for his first international tournament. This was a well deserved reward for his commitment to the sport. He was involved in a number of different divisions throughout the WC.

What was the selection process like?

Players had to nominate via an expression of interest to be considered for an invitation to attend a World Cup selection weekend in Queensland. With some divisions having over 70 people applying it was a difficult process to reduce those numbers to between 24 and 30 to attend the selection trial.

The trial was held on the Australia Day weekend in Redland, Queensland. This involved fitness, skills and game scenarios that were intense and competitive.

Final selections were made after that trial day.

Individual teams then attended training camps organised by the team coaches, extending from March to July, in both NSW and Queensland. What do you think the players took away from the experience of playing Touch at such a high level?

All those involved would have been honoured and excited to wear the green and gold and would have come away better players for the experience.

Representing your country in any sport is the pinnacle for any person. Elite competition is challenging, competitive and developmental as you interact with quality players for an extended period of time. All those involved would have been honoured and excited to wear the green and gold and would have come away better players for the experience. It allows them to return to Port Touch with the ability to help develop local players, both junior and senior, by passing on new skills and processes.

What were some of your highlights from the World Cup?

Winning a World Cup in any division is an incredible experience. Dominating the final against Australia's perennial enemy , New Zealand, was a bonus. The World Cup

campaign started in October 2023 with the networking of players interested, planning the selection weekend and communicating with the management group. It continued through 2024 with the selection weekend, four weekend camps and in depth planning through to the intensity of succeeding at the World Cup. To finally achieve the result evoked a flood of feelings. Having a quality team with quality people made for a strong culture and an immensely enjoyable experience.

What are some of your goals and aspirations for yourself, the players and the club moving forward?

Hopefully the achievements of the people involved in the World Cup will encourage others at Port Touch to strive to gain representative selections in the future. Also those involved will hopefully be readily available to impart their knowledge and skills to others in our association, supporting them in their development.

Thanks Peter.

JESSICA KING EDEN DESIGNER DRESS HIRE

FOCUS FEATURE Weddings Spring

Love Story

at The Garden Bar & Kitchen

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Nestled within the historic embrace of Frederickton’s Old Cheese Factory, The Garden Bar & Kitchen is more than just a venue; it’s the backdrop to your enchanting love story.

With panoramic river views and an ambiance steeped in history, we’re not just hosting weddings; we’re crafting unforgettable moments in the tapestry of your life.

Weddings@thegardenbar.com.au (02) 6566 8864 | thegardenbar.com.au @frederickton_weddings

Say ‘I Do’ seaside with Aanuka Beach House.

Emerging this October after undergoing a Hamptons-style makeover, Aanuka Beach House is set to make its mark as the most romantic beachside destination on the North Coast.

Brought to you by Tilley & Wills Hotels and the experienced team behind some of Sydney and Brisbane’s most reputable wedding venues, Aanuka offers the complete experience. From pre-celebrations and recovery brunches, to luxurious spa pampering and bespoke special touches, you’re invited to dream big. Choose to begin your happily ever after with a ceremony on the sand or within the walls of ‘Little Chapel By The Sea’ – a plantation- style haven fit with blue doors perfect for brides searching for their something blue.

From sit down celebrations to cocktail affairs, every dish is an artful blend of flavours designed by award-winning chef, Brad Sloane. Premium wines and cocktails offer the perfect partner for the dance floor.

Enquire today for dreamy beachside weddings with Aanuka Beach House. www.aanukabeachhouse.com.au functions@aanukabeachhouse. com.au

Phone: (02) 6650 2922

Jennifer’s Hair Salon and Illume Beauty.

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Illume Beauty,

we believe that every occasion deserves to be celebrated with exceptional style and grace.

Whether you're preparing for a wedding, a special event, or simply a day of pampering, our salon offers a comprehensive range of services designed to meet all of your beauty needs in one convenient location. Our hair services are extensive, featuring everything from precision cuts to vibrant colour treatments. Our skilled stylists stay updated on the latest trends and techniques, ensuring you leave feeling fabulous. We also offer professional styling for weddings and events, helping you to achieve that perfect look on

your big day.

Beyond hair, we provide a variety of beauty services to enhance your overall appearance. Enjoy ear piercings performed by our trained professionals, or indulge in our nail services, where you can choose from classic manicures to trendy nail art. Our tanning services will ensure you have a sun-kissed glow for your special occasion, while our lash and brow services will define your features beautifully. For those seeking relaxation, our massage treatments provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of wedding planning. Additionally, our tinting services help to subtly

enhance your natural beauty, making sure you look radiant.

To complete your look, our expert makeup artists are on hand to create a flawless finish, tailored specifically to your style and preferences. At Jennifer’s Hair Salon and Illume Beauty, we are committed to making you feel confident and beautiful as you embark on your next adventure. Trust us to help you shine on your most memorable of days, all while enjoying the convenience of top-notch services in one welcoming space. Visit us today and let us help you prepare for your next event in style!

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Dr James Churchill

SPECIALIST UROLOGIST & ROBOTIC SURGEON

Can you tell us about your medical background and training? I’m a Specialist Urologist and Robotic Surgeon in Port Macquarie, working in private and public throughout the Hastings-Macleay area since mid 2023. More recently I’ve been in Manchester, UK, gaining specialist skills in robotic surgery and cancer care. Living in the UK was a great experience, but it’s nice being back home in Australia. I completed my surgical training in New South Wales, including a term in Port Macquarie, and loved it so much that I came back to stay! Before that, I grew up and went to medical school in Melbourne.

What is your area of specialisation, and what drew you to it? As a urologist, I treat all problems of the kidneys, bladder, prostate and male reproductive organs. However, my area of interest is in cancer care. The skills that I’ve developed are in major cancer operations and the care of patients with rare cancers. Operations for cancers can be complex and difficult, and it is very rewarding to often see patients live long and happy lives after solving these problems. I believe that developing and passing on expertise in the care of patients with rare cancers and fostering collaborative research in this area is good for our community.

What do you consider your greatest

strengths as a physician? I believe that I’m a good problem solver and a logical thinker, which are some of the things that drew me to surgery. I’m approachable and communicate well in addition to being thorough and well organised. I’m a well-rounded surgeon with interest and experience in surgical education. I’m happy to give my time to organisations for medical leadership and teaching roles, including having been a board member of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and Australian Medical Association and the training supervisor for urology at the public hospital.

Are there any notable achievements or honours from your educational background? I’m proud of my achievements while in Manchester, an experience that was supported by the competitive Hugh Johnston Travel Grant from The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. These achievements included prize-winning research into rare cancers presented at major conferences in Europe and the US and completion of the European robotic surgery training programme, in which I gained a Certificate of Excellence. As a trainee, I won the Chris Farrell Prize for urology research and prizes for presentations at cancer training seminars.

Are there any new treatments or technologies you are particularly excited about? I’m excited by the rate of progress in the multidisciplinary treatment of urological

cancers. It’s great to have access to robotic surgery at Port Macquarie Private Hospital, where we can offer the highest standard of surgical care for major cancer operations. I believe that we really ‘punch above our weight’ in Port Macquarie, and that the local community benefits from the care that we can provide here. I also have an interest in minimally invasive techniques for other urological problems.

What excites you about working at Port Macquarie Private Hospital? The team at Port Macquarie Private Hospital have warmly welcomed me since coming back! The atmosphere is professional and colleagues are friendly. I’m excited to work at a place that provides such an important service to the community. I’m glad to have made the decision to set up my practice here in Port Macquarie, my wife and two boys love it and we feel that we have settled in very nicely. Having the best beaches in New South Wales certainly helps!

Thanks Dr Churchill

Port Macquarie Private Hospital

Dr Nick Confos

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Port Macquarie Private Hospital

Ophthalmology

What excites me about working with the private hospital?

I enjoy working at Coolenberg Day Surgery in particular, as there is a great team of nurses and a very supportive and comfortable environment in which to work. I also enjoy working with my anaesthetist –Dr Chris Brunsdon who is very skilled in his particular speciality. The private hospital has also been very supportive of my needs and always willing to acquire any new equipment or instruments that I may require to conduct my surgery effectively and safely. The results that we achieve are therefore excellent.

My medical background and trainingSince moving to Port Macquarie, I have been practising as a solo general ophthalmologist. I originally trained as a general practitioner in Sydney where I worked as a GP for many years before I embarked on specialist training at the Sydney Eye Hospital to become an ophthalmologist. This grounding in general practice has had a positive influence as it enables me to offer more holistic approach to my clinical practice. In addition, I realise the importance of giving patients time and acknowledging their concerns. My medical background also enables me to perform on a level that is more encompassing of the

patient’s general health and not just focusing on the particular eye problem that they have. Ophthalmology is a rewarding and complex speciality and there is great satisfaction in improving patient’s vision.

Area of speciality - My area of speciality is general ophthalmology however, my main surgical focus is cataract surgery which is the bulk of the surgery that I perform. I have been known to achieve excellent results in this area. I do perform other surgeries as well including eyelid surgery for conditions such as, rolling out of the eye lid (ectropion) or rolling inwards of the eye lid (entropion), pterygium surgery, glaucoma surgery and tumour removal from the surface of the eye and eye lids. In addition, a large component of my practice is focused on treatment of Wet AMD with intravitreal injections to improve or stabilise vision.

My greatest strength as a physician? My skill as an eye surgeon (cataract surgery, in particular) aiming to achieve excellent vision with or without glasses.

Achievements?

My achievements include MBBS honours at the University of NSW (1986). I have also achieved fellowship of The Royal Australian College of General practice (FRACGP) and I was an examiner with the college, assessing potential GPs during their

examinations. I achieved my specialist degree in ophthalmology (FRANZCO) in 2006 and I am also an international member of The American Academy of Ophthalmology. New treatments that I am excited about? I am excited about the iStent procedure for surgical management of Glaucoma. These stents are improving all the time aiming to reduce eye pressure to the extent that glaucoma drops may be reduced or ceased altogether.

OCT analysis of the retina provides excellent imaging and information as to various retinal disorders. OCT is still evolving and becoming more and more accurate and expansive in its use.

I look forward to further new treatments for Wet Macular Degeneration and for the introduction of effective treatments for Dry Macular Degeneration which at present are not available.

Dr. Ivan M. Young

Ophthalmologist and Eye Surgeon MBBS (Adel.) FRANZCO

Aspecialist in small incision cataract surgery, Dr. Young is also a Clinical Lecturer at the University of New South Wales and a state branch committee member of the Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists. He has been reappointed as Conjoint lecturer in Clinical Ophthalmology at the University of New South Wales.

Dr. Young uses the Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography, the Ellman Radio Surgical process, intravitreal injections and laser therapy in his general ophthalmology specialist services and oculoplastic surgeries.

Always at the forefront of the latest discoveries and research, Dr. Young continues to consolidate his knowledge in his fields of expertise. In 2018, he attended the aesthetic eyelid and facial rejuvenation course at Jules Stein Eye Institute, University of California. In 2019, he attended a cataract surgery conference in Orlando, Florida where he learnt advanced microsurgical techniques. He also participated in a facial rejuvenation surgical course in Singapore at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.

Dr. Young has been a Civil Aviation Safety Authority Designated Aviation Ophthalmologist (DAO) since 2001.

With VMO appointments at Port Macquarie Private Hospital and Coolenberg Day Surgery, Dr. Young provides services to both privately insured and self funded patients.

Dr Kristy Kostalas

Cosmetic Doctor, FRACGP

B.Med.Sci. MBBS (Hons) FRACGP. MMed. DCH

MED0001195854

Specialist Registration in General Practice

Ibegan my medical journey by earning a Bachelor of Medical Science, followed by a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery with Honours. My training has been comprehensive, with further specialisation in general practice, where I obtained a Fellowship. Additionally, I hold a Master in Reproductive Medicine and a Master in Forensic Medicine. I work both as a General Practitioner and a Cosmetic Doctor, and I am the founder and lead practitioner at Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic (PMAC).

My specialisation is in women’s medicine, which I practice in both my GP role and through the foundations I’ve built at PMAC. I’m deeply passionate about enhancing women’s well-being and confidence through personalised treatments that blend art and science. Whether addressing general health or focusing on skin health and aesthetics, I aim to make a meaningful impact on my patients' lives.

My greatest strengths as a physician include a strong attention to detail, a dedication to my work, and a commitment to continuous learning. I believe that building trusting, long-term relationships with my patients is crucial to providing the best care possible. In addition to my professional expertise, I bring a downto-earth personality and a sense of

humour to my practice, which helps to create a warm and welcoming environment for my patients.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition for my work in both general practice and cosmetic medicine. Completing multiple Masters degrees has been an achievement while raising a young family and I’ve since had the privilege of speaking nationally and internationally on topics related to skin and aesthetics. Winning Business of the Year in 2024 for PMAC, is another milestone that reflects the dedication and excellence of my team.

I’m particularly excited about advancements in menopausal skin management, an area that is becoming increasingly important in cosmetic medicine. This includes developing specialised skincare products and treatments that address the unique needs of women going through menopause. Additionally, I’m deeply involved in regenerative aesthetics, a field that is transforming how we manage skin health and rejuvenation. I frequently speak about these advancements at aesthetics conferences, sharing my insights and bringing back valuable industry insights to PMAC and my GP work.

5/12 Highfields Circut, Port Macquarie 0421 253 025 reception@ portmedicalaesthetics.com.au

A/Prof Stuart Kostalas

BM(Hons

1),

MM(Clin Epi), MSc(Oxon), FRACP

My medical background is that of an undergraduate medical degree. I then completed a Master's in Medicine in Clinical Epidemiology, as well as a Master's in Science from the University of Oxford where I studied evidence-based health care and medical statistics. I also hold a Master's Degree in Biostatistics, which I completed as part of the Biostatistics Collaboration of Australia, and I am a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. Currently, I am working on my doctoral thesis researching serrated polyps (a precursor to bowel cancer).

My gastroenterology training has provided me with experience both in Australia and internationally, including time spent in Japan, France, and the Netherlands. I’m an interventional gastroenterologist, which means I perform procedures within the gastrointestinal tract that once required more invasive approaches, like conventional surgery. My focus is on the endoscopic removal of early cancers, an area that has seen remarkable advancements in recent years. I was inspired to pursue this subspecialty after observing pioneering techniques in Japan, and I’ve been fortunate to have several inspirational mentors who fuelled my passion for endoscopy.

I’m naturally curious and enjoy listening to people, qualities that serve me

well as a physician and likely benefit other relationships too. I also have good hand-eye coordination, which is particularly useful in my subspecialty. I graduated with first-class honours and was grateful to have done well, finishing first in my year in medicine and surgery. In 2012, I received the Wiley Blackwell Publishing Award for "Clinical Excellence in Adult Medicine" from the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

I’m particularly excited about introducing advanced endoscopic treatments to Port Macquarie. With the support of my Japanese colleagues, we’ve successfully implemented and disseminated these innovative techniques, representing a significant shift in how we manage early cancers.

Dr Amani Abozei

Igraduated with Honours from Misr University for Science and Technology in 2008, completed the German Board of Oral Implantology in 2010, and earned my Master’s Degree from Cairo University in 2014. After moving to Australia in 2019, I achieved Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons in 2023.

My career spans over 10 years as a senior dentist in Egypt and in Queensland’s rural areas, with a special interest in implants/ impantology. I focus on preventive and minimally invasive treatments, complex surgical rehabilitations, and smile makeovers, and I’m committed to ongoing professional development with over 1000 hours of coursework and internationally recognised research.

My

advice to patients is to prioritise regular check-ups and cleanings to prevent unexpected issues and maintain oral health.

My specialisation is in implant dentistry and complex surgical rehabilitation, driven by a passion for restoring function and aesthetics through advanced techniques. The complexity of surgical rehabilitation excites me, as it allows me to apply technical skills and creative problemsolving to develop tailored treatment plans that enhance patient well-being. Staying at the forefront of dental advancements is a key motivation for me.

My strengths include meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to evidence-based practice. My extensive training and experience enable me to handle complex cases confidently,

blending technical expertise with a patientcentred approach for optimal outcomes. My diverse experiences have enhanced my adaptability and problem-solving skills. Notable achievements include graduating with Honours, completing advanced implantology training, and earning Fellowship status. I’m excited about advancements in digital dentistry, AI, and regenerative techniques, which promise to enhance precision and patient care. My advice to patients is to prioritise regular check-ups and cleanings to prevent unexpected issues and maintain oral health.

What I love most about being a clinician is seeing the joy and relief on a patient’s face when they can enjoy their favourite foods and smile confidently. It’s these moments that remind me of my passion for dentistry and drive me to provide the best care possible.

Phone: 02 5526 9930

www.primarydental.com.au/ dental-centre/port-macquarie

Dr Tim Grant Dr Matthew Cooper

Dr. Tim Grant completed his medical degree at Cardiff Medical School in Wales and undertook his intern and resident years in Liverpool and the North West of the UK. He and his wife then spent two years working in Emergency Departments in Gosford and Wyong on the Central Coast, where they developed a deep appreciation for Australia and its healthcare system. After returning to the UK to complete his specialist GP training, Dr. Grant worked as a GP in South Wales before emigrating to Port Macquarie. Since relocating to Australia, he has earned Fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

Dr. Grant prides himself on being a generalist - encompassing a wide range of medical fields including pediatrics, mental health, and elderly care. He values the variety of cases that come his way and focuses on health prevention and chronic disease management to make a significant long-term impact on his patients and their families.

Among Dr. Grant’s greatest strengths are his strong communication skills and his commitment to staying updated

on medical advancements. These attributes are crucial for managing long-term health issues and providing effective care. His deep investment in his patients’ wellbeing involves listening carefully and addressing their specific concerns, particularly for elderly patients with complex health conditions.

Actively involved in the education and mentorship of medical students and junior doctors, Dr. Grant is passionate about contributing to the development of future healthcare professionals.

He is particularly enthusiastic about advancements in medications for managing type 2 diabetes, such as GLP-1 agonists, which greatly enhance disease management and prevent longterm complications.

Dr. Grant advises patients to raise any health concerns without hesitation. Early detection and intervention can make a substantial difference, and he encourages patients to seek early reviews and “well-man checks.” He finds the variety of work and the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives deeply rewarding, appreciating the privilege of supporting patients through their health journeys.

Dr Matthew Cooper qualified in Leeds, UK in 1996 and as a GP in 2000, spending 16 years working for the NHS. After becoming disillusioned with the UK healthcare system, he emigrated to Australia in December 2012. Matthew relocated to Port Macquarie from Cronulla, Sydney in April 2013 to embrace the Aussie lifestyle. His career has since included roles in Rockingham, WA, Victoria Point, QLD, and the UK during COVID, and he has been with Port Macquarie Medical and Dental for the past two years. Matthew appreciates general practice for its variety and the opportunity it provides for longterm, preventative healthcare. It allows him to build relationships with patients and engage in their overall well-being, rather than just addressing immediate health issues. Many of his patients have become friends over time.His greatest strength is his focus on preventative care. Matthew prefers to address health concerns before they develop into significant problems. He approaches each patient holistically, valuing them as individuals rather than just their illnesses, and strives to provide

equal care to everyone. Matthew is passionate about certain medical interventions, particularly CT coronary angiogram scanning. This test helps assess coronary artery health and predict the risk of significant cardiac events. He has seen many patients benefit from this test, avoiding severe heart attacks through early intervention, which is incredibly rewarding.His advice to patients is to see their GP if concerned about their health, as there are many tests available to assess health status. For those worried about heart risk, a governmentfunded heart assessment and, if needed, a CT scan can help prevent serious cardiac events. Being a clinician is immensely fulfilling. He values the trust patients place in him and the opportunity to make a positive difference in their lives. Seeing patients improve their health and make lifestyle changes is the most rewarding aspect of Matthew’s work.

Phone: 02 5526 9999

www.portmacquariemedical centre.com.au

New to the Mid North Coast

ROBOTIC HIP & KNEE JOINT

Reacement Surgery

Mayo & Forster Private Orthopaedic Surgeons are now using cu ing edge robotic technology to assist with knee and hip replacement surgery.

Why is it important to introduce Robotic Surgery to our area?

With an aging population both on the Barrington Coast and across Australia, Osteoarthritis has been identified as the main contributor to hip and knee deterioration. According to the 2022 Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry, close to 69,000 knee replacements and over 52,000 hip replacements were undertaken across Australia in 2022. Our goal was to be able to bring state of the art technology to The Mid North Coast for orthopaedics with both the Mako and Rosa Robotics.

Mayo & Forster Private Hospitals.

Mako robotic technology uses CT scans to analyse each patient’s unique joint structure and plan their joint replacement prior to surgery. The Orthopaedic Surgeon then uses the Mako Robotic arm during the surgery to perfectly match the detailed pre-operative plan. This allows the surgeon to customise the alignment and positioning of the replacement joint to ensure it is at an angle that optimises outcomes and matches the unique anatomy of each patient, to within 1mm.

Our Robotics Orthopaedic Team is now accepting referrals and we are prioritising patients, so they don’t have to wait months for appointments and surgery.

“We are so excited to be able to bring multimillion-dollar robots to our communities. Locals don’t have to travel far from home now to receive the latest and greatest in joint replacement surgery.” said Deanne Portelli, Regional Chief Executive Officer,

How would someone wanting to book for Robotic Hip or Knee Surgery start the process?

Your GP is the first port of call, ask your GP for a referral to any of our great surgeons, make your appointment and discuss the options with your surgeon. We have a great team of qualified, Rosa and Mako trained Robotic Surgeons right here locally and our Rehabilitation Physicians and our Allied Health Team offer full pre and post operative rehabilitation to have you

returning to your normal activities quickly and safely.

The following surgeons now offer robotic surgery locally – Dr Matt Broadhead, Dr Cem Gultekin, Dr Ben Hardy, Dr Johan Le Roux, Dr Rupert Snyman, Dr Adam Woodbridge, Dr Geoff Workman and A/Prof. Michael Wyatt.

For more info visit https://mayoprivate.com. au/specialties/surgical-services/orthopaedics

DR RUPERT SNYMAN

Igraduated my medical degree from UNSW in 2001 and completed my Orthopaedic Specialist Training in 2010. I actually spent 3 months at Manning Base Hospital as a registrar in 2005. I worked as a specialist for 2 years in Tamworth before settling in Port Macquarie in 2013 to join Dr Bill Cumberland

Iwas born and raised in Adelaide and moved to Newcastle in 2008 to accept my place in Medical School at the University of Newcastle. I completed my orthopaedic surgical training between Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, and Tamworth and also in Paediatric Orthopaedics at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Adelaide. I honed my skills at John Hunter Hospital, the busiest trauma centre in New South Wales. At the end of surgical training, I moved to Randwick for an accredited fellowship in hip and knee replacement, knee arthroscopy, and ligament surgery and also completed the John Hunter Hospital short term hand fellowship after the award of the International Bone Research Association scholarship. I met my darling wife Dr Angela Hardy, Obstetrician Gynaecologist, in the operating theatres in Coffs Harbour Hospital and we both agreed that the Mid North Coast was the place we wanted to make a life. Angela has a thriving practice in Port Macquarie providing obstetric and family planning care.

prior to his retirement in 2015. Since that time my practice has become more specialised. My primary interest for the last 8 years has been the treatment of hip and knee arthritis including hip and knee replacements and lower limb sports injuries. I had the benefit of excellent training in this area throughout my specialist training. After finishing my training I further developed a keen interest in revision hip and knee surgery, treating complications of infection in particular. Successfully curing patients with these difficult infections with the help of an excellent team is very satisfying. I also have taken an interest in meniscal and knee ligament repair techniques which continue to advance rapidly. These were two particular areas where I felt I could complement the already excellent care delivered in the area. It is important for us to provide realistic outcome advice and advise patients carefully about the procedures that they are contemplating. We also need to explain conditions accurately and clearly so that patients can make informed decisions. Lastly as surgeons we need to make sure we do a great job. We need to constantly strive for improvement in techniques, procedures and

While a proud generalist orthopaedic surgeon, my primary passion is the treatment of injuries. My interest in orthopaedic trauma began early in medical school, fuelled by the joy of helping people get their lives back - be it joint replacements, ligament surgery, or trauma surgery, my job is about giving people function back. The real challenge lies in helping patients understand the impact of surgery and empowering them to manage their condition. Most recently I was proud to accept the Damian McMahon Prize, which is awarded for the best trauma surgery project by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons’. My PhD work dives into the outcomes of the most severely injured trauma patients, and how to make sure these patients don’t get lost in the statistics that rightly celebrate our overall improvements. I’m also proud to have just completed my training to become a Designated Aviation Medicine Examiner. I am excited about the advancements in robotic-assisted surgery, such as the Mako system and am grateful to Mayo Private

implants. Often this involves travelling to learn techniques from other experts and pioneering surgeons. We also need to keep abreast of new technology and carefully introduce that into our practice when we feel there is good evidence to support it. Orthopaedic Surgery is a lot more complex than most people think, but at the same time it can be very simple when you understand it. I was an early user of computer navigation in knee replacement in 2012 and have been excited to see the growth in robotics recently. I’m very excited about the Stryker Mako platform at the Mayo Hospital and the potential benefits it brings. The ability to 3D map the bones preoperatively and analyse the movement of the joint prior to cutting any bone is great but the coupling of this technology with a haptic controlled robotic arm is amazing. As the surgeon, it separates the planning from the execution phase of the procedure which gives us a great feeling of confidence and certainty. Hence the great worldwide success of this platform using a knee implant that has been implanted in 4.9 million patients worldwide. It also allows partial knee replacement with accuracy and improved results compared to manual instruments.

DR BEN HARDY

Hospital for investing in this technology. I am also excited by science catching up with what we’ve known all along - that the mind-body axis is real. How we think about our condition and treatment, effects not just our experience, but also how our cells actually heal!

WOMEN’S HEALTH WEEK

ADDRESSING THOSE TABOO TOPICS

As Women’s Health Week approaches, it’s an opportune time to shine a spotlight on some of the less-discussed, yet significantly impactful, health issues that many women face. Among these are pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, and overactive bladder. These are conditions that affect a substantial number of women in Australia, yet often remain shrouded in silence. This week, let’s break that silence, raise awareness, and empower women to seek the care and support they need.

Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs (the uterus, bladder, or rectum) become weak or loose. This condition can lead to discomfort, urinary issues, and a feeling of pressure or fullness in the pelvic area. In Australia, it’s estimated that up to 50% of women who have had children will experience some degree of pelvic organ prolapse in their lifetime. While prolapse can significantly impact quality of life, many women are reluctant to discuss it due to embarrassment or a belief that it’s a normal part of aging. However, prolapse is a medical condition that warrants attention and can often be managed or treated through pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes, and last resort; surgically. Incontinence: A Common, Yet Manageable

Issue. Urinary incontinence, the involuntary leakage of urine, is a condition that affects a large proportion of Australian women. According to the Continence Foundation of Australia, approximately 37% of women experience some form of urinary incontinence, with stress incontinence (leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercise) being the most common.

Incontinence can have a profound impact on daily life, leading to social withdrawal, decreased physical activity, and emotional distress. Incontinence is a treatable condition, and there are many effective strategies available, from pelvic floor exercises (also known as Kegels) to bladder training and, in some cases, surgical interventions.

Overactive Bladder: A Disruptive Condition. Overactive bladder (OAB) is characterised by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate, often leading to frequent trips to the bathroom, day and night. OAB affects around 14% of Australian women and can significantly disrupt daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life.

The symptoms of OAB are often mistaken for normal aging, leading many women to delay seeking treatment. However, overactive bladder is a medical condition that can be managed with lifestyle changes, bladder training, medications, or other treatments. The Impact on Mental Health. The physical symptoms of prolapse, incontinence, and

overactive bladder can also take a significant toll on mental health. Women dealing with these issues may experience feelings of embarrassment, anxiety, or depression, particularly if isolated or unsupported. Studies have shown that women with urinary incontinence, for example, are more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety than those without the condition. The stigma associated with these conditions can prevent women from seeking help, leading to a cycle of worsening symptoms and deteriorating mental health.

Break the Silence: Seek Help and Support

Women’s Health Week is an ideal time to encourage open conversations about these conditions. It’s important for women to know that they are not alone and that help is available. Health professionals, including general practitioners, women’s health physiotherapists specialising in pelvic floor health, and urologists, can offer valuable support and treatment options.

The Continence Foundation of Australia provides resources and support including information on managing symptoms and finding appropriate care. This month, take the opportunity to reflect on your own health, schedule any necessary appointments, and start conversations with the women in your life. Together, we can break the silence and support each other in the journey towards better health.

FROM WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO/ PHYSIO COLLECTIVE with GRAYCE GERKE

YOUR FAMILY’S PRIVATE HEALTH BENEFITS,

USE IT OR LOSE IT

With the end of year fast approaching, most private health insurance benefits expire annually on Dec 31st, and that can leave you and your family out of pocket for your 2024 dental health benefits.

Unfortunately, most health funds do not allow rollover of benefits - they take a use it or lose it approach, and with much of 2024 being awash for preventative health care and dentistry, it’s time to take action. What does this mean for you and your family? Well, if you haven’t used all of your dental benefits before the end of the year, they may expire, lapse, run out, or become invalid. Your family’s teeth will be left without the care that, (let's face it), you pay your private health insurance for, so take action now!

It is essential that if you have any required treatment they be booked in and completed before the end of the calendar

year, so you can maximise the use of your insurance benefits. If you haven’t had a checkup in the last six months, it may be an idea to book in as soon as possible, so any additional required treatment can be scheduled before the end of the year. October to December tend to be the most heavily booked months, so we recommend calling as soon as possible to book in, as many of our patients take the opportunity to get their dental treatment before their

private health benefits expire.

For more information about your private health insurance and dental benefits, call your provider directly to find out what you’re eligible for and what you can claim for before time runs outand remember, use it or lose it!

It is essential that if you have any required treatment they be booked in and completed before the end of the calendar year, so you can maximise the use of your insurance benefits.

To make your next appointment with our caring team at Sundial Dental,

call call 6583 3533 or 6585 2015 to take advantage of your family’s health benefits today! visit sundialdental.com.au

Hearing the Shop

What inspired you to open The Hearing Shop? At the Hearing Shop we really pride ourselves on being able to provide the best services and products available at much more affordable rates. With the cost of living going up, we want to help people experience the best possible hearing, without adding to the already difficult expenses that people encounter everyday.

Can you describe the range of services and products you offer? We offer full hearing assessments for Pensioners, DVA, private patients, Workcover and even some children. We also have a wide range of hearing solutions at affordable prices.

Can you introduce us to your team? Isaac is the principle Audiologist and his wife Kleodora is the practice manager.

What are some common misconceptions people have about hearing aids or hearing health? There really are so many, but the most common misconception is that if someone else has experienced difficulty with their hearing aids, all hearing aids must be bad. This couldn't be further from the truth. Another one is that hearing aids will make your hearing worse. This is absolutely not the case, in fact it can help to maintain the hearing levels you currently have as well as help with maintaining one's cognitive ability. This is something that is crucial as we age. Lastly there is a perception that hearing aids are always very expensive, and this simply doesn't have to be the case at all. At The Hearing Shop we will try to find a solution that

not only helps your hearing, but also one that fits within your budget.

Do you have any upcoming promotions, events, or new services that you would like to highlight?

We have rechargeable options starting at $475 for pensioners, but we also have a fantastic range of fully subsidised options available. Where can our readers locate your new store?

The Specialist Suites, Room 5, Suite 8, 111 William Street, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444 or Your Family Practice 106 Sirius Drive, Lakewood, NSW, 2443

Call 02 6516 2217 or visit the website www.thehearingshop.com.au

RE-WRITING

With DR KRISTY KOSTALAS

Cosmetic Doctor, FRACGP

B.Med.Sci. MBBS (Hons) FRACGP. MMed. (repro) DCH M.Med (for)

MED0001195854

Specialist Registration in General Practice eauty

DTHE WHEN AESTHETIC TREATMENTS ARE NOT JUST ABOUT AESTHETICS

r Kristy, tell us about the treatments your doctors offer that aren’t actually for cosmetic reasons?

Absolutely! There are actually a range of medical conditions our doctors and nurses treat such as muscle spasms, excessive sweating, migraines, TMJ dysfunction, teeth grinding and of course we treat a whole range of skin conditions from acne to rosacea. Tell me more about how you treat muscle spasms?

Muscle spasms and involuntary contractions can be debilitating for some patients. Aesthetic treatments have been found to offer substantial relief for individuals suffering from such conditions. These treatments work by temporarily relaxing the muscles, thereby reducing the frequency and intensity of spasms.

What’s your favourite non-cosmetic cosmetic treatment?

Oh definitely treating excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis! This is a condition where patients sweat excessively under the arms. Hyperhidrosis can be a distressing condition, leading to social anxiety and embarrassment. Traditional treatments, such as antiperspirants and medications, often fall short in providing longterm relief. Aesthetic treatments offer a more targeted approach. By injecting small amounts into the sweat glands, these treatments can significantly reduce perspiration. The procedure works by blocking the nerve signals responsible

for activating the sweat glands, resulting in reduced sweating.

What about headache and migraine management?

Aesthetic treatments have emerged as a groundbreaking option for migraine management. These treatments involve injecting small amounts into specific areas of the head and neck. The precise mechanism by which these treatments alleviate migraines is not fully understood, but it is believed that they work by blocking the pain pathways involved in migraine attacks. Patients often report a significant reduction after undergoing these treatments, with effects lasting between three to six months. How about TMJ Dysfunction and Teeth Grinding

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and teeth grinding (bruxism) are common conditions that can cause significant discomfort and pain. TMJ dysfunction often results in jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty in opening and closing the mouth, while bruxism can lead to worn teeth, jaw fatigue, and chronic pain. By targeting the muscles responsible for jaw movement and clenching, aesthetic treatments can provide relief from the excessive muscle activity that characterises TMJ dysfunction and bruxism. Patients often experience a reduction in jaw tension, decreased frequency of headaches, and an overall improvement in jaw function with the effects lasting several months. Does this mean patients who have medical

conditions should consider going to a medical aesthetics clinic?

Yes!! The use of aesthetic treatments for medical conditions highlights an important shift in the perception and application of these procedures. No longer confined to the realm of cosmetic enhancement, they are increasingly recognised for their therapeutic benefits. Conditions that were once difficult to manage can now be effectively treated, leading to better physical and emotional well-being. At Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic, our healthcare professionals provide a wide range of medical treatments.

Thank you for explaining the medical purpose of aesthetics Dr Kristy!

Thank you for having me again! I think it’s really important to realise that aesthetic treatments have evolved far beyond their cosmetic origins. This evolution reflects a broader trend in medicine, where treatments are increasingly valued for their ability to improve both appearance and function. As a doctors clinic we love using our expertise to help our patients with their medical conditions: a solution for your chronic problem might only be a consult away!

Sciatica

SMORE THAN JUST A PAIN IN THE BUM!

ciatica isn’t just a pain in the bum - it can also affect your lower back, the back of your thigh, lower leg, and even your feet! The sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, originates in your lower back and travels down both sides of your body through the glutes, back of the thighs, lower legs, and into the feet. Pain from sciatica can be felt anywhere along this pathway.

The

Struggle of Sciatica

Living with sciatica can be both concerning and frightening. The pain can be intense, ranging from tingling, burning, and sharpness to throbbing and numbness. It can also cause weakness and discomfort, with certain positions and common movements triggering the pain.

Common Causes of Sciatica

One of the primary causes of sciatica is

the pinching of its nerve root by a disc bulge at the point where it exits the spine. This typically occurs in the lower back at the L5/S1 level of the spine.

My Experience with Sciatica

As both a practitioner and a former sciatica sufferer, I’ve found that sciatic pain often has a movement or postural trigger. However, not everyone is aware of their triggers. During patient assessments, I often observe that most sciatica sufferers “sit in their pain,” meaning they sit in a way that aggravates their discomfort in both the short and long term.

If you are living with sciatica or experiencing any related symptoms, please contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!

Ryan Samuels

Orthopaedic Acupuncturist

Devina Ke

Hi Kate. Tell us a little about yourself and your own journey to becoming a doula.

As a mother to a 3.5-yearold daughter and a wife to my Kiwi partner Sam, I relocated to Port Macquarie from Sydney two years ago. My background in the natural health world spans about a decade, having studied nutrition and completed a Complementary Medicine Degree at Endeavour College. For roughly nine years, I served as General Manager of a large group of allied health clinics in Sydney. However, late last year, I felt a calling to pivot my career and become a doula.

This decision arose from my personal postpartum experience and conversations with friends who were navigating similar challenges during this phase of life. When I was pregnant with my daughter, I engaged a private home birth midwife and a doula. They provided tremendous support throughout my pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period, which made me

Doulas have gained immense popularity in recent years as more parents want to be actively prepared for their birth and be er understand the need for trusted support in pregnancy, labour, birth and postpartum. Kate Devine describes herself as a postpartum doula and health coach, specialising in supporting new mothers with a continuity of care and advocacy.

realise the immense value of investing in that type of care. Their assistance was invaluable, especially for a first-time mother like me, as I learned to navigate breastfeeding, sleep, and recovery.

I noticed that, for many of my friends who had recently had babies, there was a lack of ongoing support once they left hospital. This experience can be daunting, particularly for first-time parents who may not have much exposure to newborns. In our culture, there is a significant focus on pregnancy and birth, yet little thought is given to the postpartum phase, which is arguably the most challenging part. This time involves sleepless nights, learning to breastfeed, recovering from birth, and managing the demands of everyday life all

while often feeling isolated.

is decision arose from my personal postpartum experience and conversations with friends who were navigating similar challenges during this phase of life.

In many traditional cultures, the postpartum period is sacred, with the community coming together to support the mother by taking care of household tasks for at least the first month (often referred to as the 40 days). Unfortunately, this supportive network has diminished in our society over the years. As a doula, I hope to reintegrate this care model so that mothers can receive continuous support from pregnancy through the crucial fourth trimester.

It has been proven that continual care and support improves birth experiences and outcomes and evidence shows that when doulas attend a birth, labours are shorter, with fewer complications, and babies breastfeed more easily. In your experience,

DOULA

how can a doula provide invaluable support during this time for a new parent?

Having had a doula throughout my pregnancy and birth I can confidently say that their role is invaluable to a woman’s journey through pregnancy and into postpartum. A trusted doula provides continuity of care, allowing parents to feel at ease even when faced with challenges. This support helps them focus on labour or breastfeeding without outside distractions. Their presence allows mothers to fully immerse themselves in their labour experience, knowing they have someone advocating for them.

In the postpartum period, my support is equally essential. I specialise in postpartum care, providing practical assistance with breastfeeding, meal preparation, and household tasks. This support enables mothers to rest and adjust to their new roles, while also allowing partners to bond with their newborn. A key part of your service focuses on in-home support designed to emotionally and physically support a new mum with postpartum care. Can you provide some examples of what in-home support might look like?

I aim to be the supportive figure, a blend of mother, aunt and best friend that steps in to take care of the mother so she can focus entirely on herself and her baby.

My in-home support service aims to address both the emotional and physical needs of new mothers. Typically, my visits last around four hours. During each visit, I bring along 2-3 home-cooked meals, one-handed breastfeedingfriendly snacks, and various recovery aids like soups, broths, lactation teas, baby oils, and some treats. I believe that nourishing a new mother is crucial during this time to support her breastfeeding and overall well-being.

During my visits, I chat with mothers about their week, how their bodies are feeling, and the support they need most. This often translates to helping them relax with a long, hot bath or allowing them to take a nap while I care for the baby. I also tidy around the house, wash laundry, prepare meals, and help with older siblings. Essentially, I aim to be the supportive figure, a blend of mother, aunt and best friend that steps in to take care of the mother so she can focus entirely on herself and her baby.

Recognising that many mothers are alone at home, especially when their partners return to work, I encourage and assist them in finding local support groups and healthcare providers in their area.

What does being a doula mean to you and

what is on the horizon for your business going forward?

For me, being a doula is deeply rewarding work and aligns perfectly with my passions. I firmly believe that all women should have this type of support during such a transformative time. Women supporting women is sacred; when we care for each other, we become stronger and happier. By nurturing mothers during this time, they can show up as their best selves, positively impacting their families, communities, and the world at large. After all, mothers are raising the next generation, and we want them to be as healthy and vibrant as possible.

As I look to the future, I’ve recently added meal delivery options to my services. I offer weekly meal plans for mothers and their families and options for filling their freezers with nourishing meals before and after the baby arrives. These meals are a practical gift idea, allowing friends and family to provide support rather than material items that a new family may not need.

For people interested in finding out more about your work or engaging your services, how can they best get in touch?

For those interested in learning more about my work or engaging in my services, I do an obligation free meet and greet or visit my website at katedevine.com.au or connect with me on Instagram @katedevine_doula.

Thanks Kate. Interview: Sarah Baker.

DESIGNED JUST FOR THEM

Designed for little smiles, Invisalign First clear aligners provide a predictable comfortable way to straighten your growing child’s teeth. Even with baby teeth, treatment aligns teeth while expanding arches making room for existing teeth and incoming permanent teeth.

Visit the experienced team at Port Macquarie Orthodontics for your child’s free orthodontic assessment.

SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIST CHILDREN | TEENS | ADULTS

143A Horton Street, Port Macquarie Phone 6583 8425 info@portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au www.portmacquarieorthodontics.com.au

A head start with

Invisalign

First clear aligners CAN SET YOUR CHILD’S SMILE UP FOR SUCCESS WITH A GENTLE EXPERIENCE that won’t disrupt the daily life of being a child.

Take the first step today towards a better smile. Invisalign First clear aligner treatment is designed for predictable results and a positive experience while addressing the unique needs of growing children. It can fix a broad range of teeth straightening issues, including crowding, spacing and narrow dental arches. Starting little shifts today goes a long way. As a child grows, their smile grows with them. And even with baby teeth, it may be time for children aged 6 to 10 to start orthodontic treatment. This is

As a child grows, their smile grows with them. And even with baby teeth, it may be time for children aged 6 to 10 to start orthodontic treatment.

known as Phase 1 treatment. At this stage, doctors can see issues that may need early treatment to address a developing problem. The goal of phase 1 treatment is to develop young jaws and/or arches to make room for existing teeth and for incoming permanent teeth. Treatment can prevent pre-existing bite issues from getting worse as well as correcting existing teethstraightening conditions, improving the appearance of a growing child's smile and can make phase 2 treatment shorter and easier. Talk to Port Macquarie Orthodontics today to discuss your child’s oral health needs.

Calm

with BERNIE GINNANE Find Your focus contributor.

Counsellor / Meditation Facilitator / Spiritual Life Coach

MINDFULNESS MATTERS

Life can be unpredictable. Life can be ever changing. At times life can be challenging, with unexpected twists and turns, ups and downs. In this o en busy and fast-paced world, having a simple daily practice of mindfulness, can help you to release stress, feelings of overwhelm, and to regain and maintain a sense of balance, stability and fulfilment in life.

A simple practice is:

CHOOSING TO SCATTER MINDFUL MOMENTS INTO YOUR DAY

There are many ways to practice mindfulness.

Find the way that works for you!

Here are two suggestions to try.

1. AS YOU TRANSITION FROM ONE THING TO ANOTHER

Choose one or two daily practices that might work for you.

Take a moment to focus on your in-breath and your out-breath …

Before getting up from your chair.

Before opening a door.

Before entering a room.

After you wash your hands.

Before you walk up the stairs.

Before you walk down the stairs.

Before you enter the meeting. Before you make that call.

Before you turn your laptop on.

Before you turn your car on.

Before you open your car door.

As you wait for the kettle to boil.

Before you take your first sip of coffee or tea.

OR

2. THREE TIMES A DAY

BEFORE BREAKFAST OR BEFORE YOUR MORNING TEA OR COFFEE AND BEFORE LUNCH AND BEFORE DINNER

Pause.

Inhale a little more deeply. Exhale a little slower and longer as you:

Relax your shoulders. Relax your belly

Relax your jaw. Relax your brow And smile.

HOW CLIENTS CAN WORK WITH ME

Online sessions via Zoom most days.

One-on-one sessions, Tuesdays and Saturdays at The Wellbeing Centre, Garden Crescent, Port Macquarie.

For counselling, support with meditation & mindfulness

Intuitive guidance, numerology readings, sound and reiki healing.

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL https://www.youtube.com/@bernie888100/ videos

A FREE RESOURCE available 24/7 offering many meditations and short chats with tips and tools to help manage the ups and downs of life.

HOW TO CONTACT ME

bernie-ginnane-counsellor-spiritual-lifecoach.mailchimpsites.com bernie224@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook and Instagram bernieginnane bernie_ginnane

Bryant Steve

Dementia Frieny Couny

e Greater Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Community Alliance is hosting an event on the 21st September called Brain Health In Sport to raise awareness around CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) which is a form of Dementia caused by repeated concussions. We spoke to DFCA member Steve Bryant, to learn more.

Hi Steve. Can you tell us a bit about the Greater Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Community Alliance (DFCA) and the role you play here in Port Macquarie?

The DFCA is a group of volunteers that is in its 13th year of supporting people living with dementia and their carers. Members of the DFCA include those living with dementia, those who have or are caring for a loved one with dementia, and those who have clinical experience in the condition. DFCA

activities are primarily focused on increasing dementia awareness, advocating on behalf of people with lived experience of dementia and connecting our community with services and support. Port Macquarie has the second highest prevalence of dementia in Australia, so we have found there is a great need for our group in our local community.

You are hosting an event coming up called Brain Health In Sport, what is this event all about?

In line with the DFCA’s goal of increasing awareness of dementia, CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) is a form of dementia that

is increasingly being diagnosed in sports or activities where repeated concussions have occurred. Most notably, former Australian and Queensland Rugby League Captain Wally Lewis publicly revealed his CTE diagnosis in April, which was brought on by years of head knocks across his football career. His announcement was supported by Dr Rowena Mobbs, a leading neurologist specialising in CTE.

As with all forms of dementia, CTE affects individuals differently, but there are common symptoms that many people experience. These symptoms often develop over years, or even decades after the initial head injuries

PORT MACQUARIE

These symptoms often develop over years, or even decades after the initial head injuries have occurred and can progress over time.

have occurred and can progress over time. One of the key differences about CTE is that it is preventable. By increasing awareness of the causes and the importance of brain health in sport we can empower teachers, parents and children with the knowledge and lifelong skills about brain safety, reducing the risk of sports-related brain injuries and promoting overall brain health awareness raising.

Mobbs as well as Kaylene Doyle and Robbie O’Davis at our event, bringing together an engaging combination of CTE leading edge research and lived experience to Port Macquarie.

How did the idea for this event come about? Why do you think this is an important topic for our community to learn more about?

Every year, Group 3 Rugby League supports us by hosting a dementia awareness round, usually in July. Over a weekend, DFCA members attend the games to talk to the rugby league community about their experience of dementia, to increase dementia awareness and to fundraise for the DFCA. In the lead up to this year’s event, one of our members, Karen, contacted Dr Rowena Mobbs and Kaylene Doyle to see if they were interested in attending the weekend. While they couldn’t attend on the weekend, they were interested in taking part as presenters at a specific seminar on ‘Brain Health in Sport’. With the high prevalence of dementia in our area, almost everyone we talk to in the rugby league community has a story of a family member or friend that has had, or is living, with the condition. It is important to reach out to those who are affected to let them know that they are not alone and there is support available.

With the high prevalence of dementia in our area, almost everyone we talk to in the rugby league community has a story of a family member or friend that has had, or is living, with the condition.

Australia office in Port Macquarie and works closely with Dementia Australia to help promote their events locally. The core of our activities is to increase awareness of dementia, the DFCA and have conversations with people about how we can help. As the Port Macquarie area has the second highest prevalence of dementia in Australia, we feel it is important to support the community around the key areas of dementia awareness, advocacy and connections.

There will be some special guest speakers at the event, can you share a bit about each of them and what they will be covering?

Guest speakers at the event include:

Dr Rowena Mobbs, a leading neurologist who specialises in CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy). CTE is a type of dementia where repeated concussions over time can affect brain function, enough to interfere with the person's daily activities or working life.

Kaylene Doyle is a passionate advocate for those living with the condition and their families, with her husband being diagnosed with CTE in 2021.

Former professional Newcastle Knights player Robbie O'Davis will provide valuable insights into the lived experience of CTE.

Who is this event open to and what benefits do you hope people take away from attending?

We are very fortunate to be able to host Dr

Has the DFCA hosted information events before? What made it apparent that this was something that was needed in the area?

Dementia Action Week (DAW) is in September every year, and this year is from 16-22 September. At last year’s DAW, we ran dementia awareness forums in Kempsey, Wauchope, Laurieton and Port Macquarie. We run a singing group every Monday at the Salvation Army Hall in Lord Street and will be running a Bunnings BBQ at the end of the month. The DFCA meets monthly at the Dementia

The event is for anyone who is interested in the topic, but particularly those involved in sport, health or education that are interested in finding out more about CTE or those with firsthand experience in caring for clients or loved ones with CTE.

Where and when will this event be on?

Saturday 21 September from 6pm-8.30pm at Sails Resort, 20 Bay Street Port Macquarie. Cost is $55.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

To find out more information or to register go to: dementiafriendlypmq.com.au or follow ‘Dementia Friendly Port Macquarie’ on Facebook or Instagram.

Thanks Steve.

Vicki

SANDIFORD

Vicki Sandiford was diagnosed with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2016 a er a long medical journey. She shares her story to encourage us to trust what our bodies and intuition are telling us, and to raise awareness and funds for Lymphoma Australia.

Hi Vicki. Could you share a bit about your personal journey with Lymphoma?

In 2016 I was diagnosed with stage 4 Non Hodgkins Lymphoma diffuse large B cell. Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. A new diagnosis occurs every 2 hours and new diagnoses each year are 7,300+. Being diagnosed with cancer affects you mentally, physically, and financially. I was seeing my GP and specialists for years with severe aches and pains and severe fatigue. I even asked one specialist ‘Is this cancer, because this pain isn’t normal’. I was living on steroids for years for the pain. After having pain down one side of my face I decided to make an appointment with a neurologist in Maitland, Dr Keith Burton, who, at the time I didn’t know would save my life after he sent me for all types of cancer blood tests. After biopsies and pet scans at the Mater hospital in Newcastle I was finally diagnosed. From 2016 to 2017 I was hit with 19 chemos, 20 radiations, several blood transfusions, one platelet transfusion, and 4 bone marrow biopsies.

How has this experience shaped your approach to life?

I remember after treatment one day sitting in my backyard with my golden retriever Holly who was, and still is, by my side everyday looking at the sky and realising how blue the sky was and how green the grass was. I'm so grateful for every minute of every day. After a serious illness and being so close to death I do look at things differently. I am definitely a more positive person, with an approach to life in a completely different way. I now live my life at home with no toxic chemicals, Doterra

A er a serious illness and being so close to death I do look at things di erently. I am definitely a more positive person, with an approach to life in a completely di erent way.

essential oils are my best friend, just ask anyone at work, I've always got Doterra hand sanitiser in my pocket - lol. I'm now a Doterra wellness advocate and help others to live a low toxic load life.

How did your experience with being misdiagnosed impact you, and how do you think greater awareness can help prevent similar cases?

It still impacts me to this day. Good, bad, and at times very angry; grateful for life and everyone around me. I have some great friends, I work with awesome people and

I have my beautiful family and Holly. I do however struggle with the thought of this beast coming back and being told I have a 75% chance. If I was diagnosed earlier there would have been less treatment, less long term side effects from treatment, less time off work and my mental health would have been better off. I did spend a lot of money and also got 5 to 6 opinions, you know your own body if you feel something isn’t right, push for answers just like I did.

You’ve been fundraising for Lymphoma for four years now. What inspired you to start these fundraising efforts, and how have they evolved over time?

Why did I survive stage 4 cancer? To help others on their cancer journey. All proceeds from my fundraiser go to Lymphoma Australia, who I wasn’t aware existed when I was doing my treatment. I would’ve liked to have had the information and resources at the time. Money raised now goes to fund Lymphoma nurses who provide essential support that so many patients and family rely on to help patients understand their treatment path and help them know the signs and symptoms of Lymphoma.

Can you tell us more about the upcoming Lymphoma Awareness Day at Settlement City? What can attendees expect on September 14th?

Settlement City Saturday 14th September, 9am to 4pm outside the front doors near the upstairs carpark and look out for the lime green balloons! We will be fundraising for Lymphoma Australia and we have a great raffle with lots of prizes donated from our lovely locals.

How has the community responded to your fundraising efforts?

This is my first public fundraiser. Over the years my fundraising has been inside Big W with my awesome supportive work friends. We have a cake day in which everyone participates in either cooking or eating and or both, wearing green ribbons or wrist bands, and there's always a raffle. My close friends outside work help me support my fundraiser as well. I thought this year I would go bigger, go harder and see what happens.

As you continue to raise awareness and funds, what are your long-term goals for your advocacy work? How do you hope to make an impact in the future?

Look out for the lime green balloons. We will be fundraising for Lymphoma Australia, and we have a great ra e with lots of prizes donated from our lovely locals.

Long term goal is for more people to be aware of the lime green ribbon and what it represents. Also we all need to know our own bodies and speak up when something isn’t right. Always get answers when it comes to your health. If you have no answers after that 2nd opinion, keep going and get more. More fundraising means Lymphoma Australia can become bigger to help more patients. What message would you like to share with others who might be going through a similar experience with Lymphoma or another serious illness?

You can change your GP or specialist if you’re not happy with them, don't stay for loyalty, it's your body and you only have one life. Get those answers to your questions, push for those tests and be comfortable asking. I'm now under the best care of Dr Debra King GP and Jock Simpson Hematologist who are both caring and wonderful and who look after my mental health as well as physical. For those who want to support your efforts or participate in the Lymphoma Awareness Day, what’s the best way for them to get involved?

You can come to Settlement City, buy some raffle tickets, have a laugh at me and my friends dressed in green, say hi and give Holly a pat. I'm sure she will love it. If you have any questions I’m happy to answer. If you can't make it on the day I'm fundraising all through September, there will be a poster outside the Big W window with a QR code to scan to donate. Go lime this September and show your support for people experiencing Lymphoma Cancer.

I would like to say a big thank you to the lovely businesses who donated. Big W Port Macquarie, Big W Taree, Big W Kempsey, Majestic Cinemas, Blue Cow, Ottoman Kebabs, Petstock, Port Fresh Seafoods, Little Turkey, Basement on Clifton, Glamour Pooches, Miss Nellies, Facade Escape Room, Country Nails, Lindsays Meat, Just Cuts, Stormriders, The Good Guys, Chop n Chill, Indy Swan, Chef2farmer, Wavebowl, Billabong Zoo, Wall of China, Port City, World Par Tea, Manning Shoes, Woolworths, Port Macquarie Day Spa, Amcal, Priceline, Settlement City Newsagent, Officeworks, JB HiFi, Bookface, Circle of Friends, Glasshouse Emporium, Witchy Nook and Timeless Quilters.

Thanks Vicki.

Jenny Horn found herself curious about the varying water temperatures during her regular swims at Shelly Beach here in Port Macquarie, and so she started swimming with a thermometer and recording the water temps, which she now records on a whiteboard for beach goers to check each day.

IJenny

Horn

s ocean swimming something you have done for a long time? How did you discover your love for it?

Although I grew up on a dairy farm near the town of Boolarra in Gippsland, Victoria, which wasn’t close to the ocean, we did get to the beach occasionally. However, I have always had a fascination with the ocean and its mysteries.

Prior to living in Port Macquarie my only experience of ocean swimming was limited to a few beach trips, a holiday tour snorkelling off coral reefs in Qld, a swim with Whale Sharks in WA and a swim tour with dolphins and sea lions in SA.

You swim almost every day, what keeps you motivated to get out there?

Most days I manage to jump into the water for either a swim or a quick dip, sometimes swimming up to 1km, which are laps of the lagoon area. It depends how the ocean’s and my mood match on the day. If I don’t do it in the morning, it doesn’t get done.

I admit there are days, I don’t feel the love…. until I take the plunge. Then, I know why I do it. The lift in my energy is instant and I absolutely know why I am doing it.

My motto is: “Don’t think, just do.” You take the water temperature each time

you swim, and record it for others to see. How did the idea to start doing this come about?

I do take the temperature 99% of the times I swim, which came from my own curiosity about the temperature of the water as I often tried guessing it. One day it would feel warm and the next day it would be cool.

It was January 2020, when I thought, the start of a new year, let’s do this - taking the temperature. Soon people were asking me and everyone has this great guessing game with themselves about how close they get. Then someone suggested I write it down somewhere.

I tasked my husband David with 2 things: 1st was attaching a piece of swimming noodle with a shoelace to the thermometer so it would float and hang below the water surface about half a metre. A large indoor/outdoor thermometer for easy reading when bobbing up and down in the water. I am actually onto my 10th thermometer, and yes, there is a story for each one.

2nd thing was to create a whiteboard. A5 size public safe, weatherproof board, that blended with surrounds for those who were interested. Ahh… A toilet seat lid might be the answer and he was able to repurpose it into 2 A5 size boards. Holes dutifully cut for cable ties, and a whiteboard sheet glued on.

What was it that sparked your interest in the water temps and how they change?

I admit there are days, I don’t feel the love... until I take the plunge. en, I know why I do it, the li in my energy is instant and I absolutely know why I am doing it.

I have a natural curiosity and love of nature. It fascinated me when the really cold currents arrived. Especially how the north easterly currents, and winds bring us the cold water and the southeasterly winds bring in the warm water currents.

Do you usually swim by yourself or with a group? What’s the community like down here at Shelly Beach?

My swimming or dips although on my own, you do tend to see the same members of the community who go to the beach at the similar time. Most of my swimming is within the lagoon.

On a couple of occasions, surfer John was my water safety buddy and he accompanied me on his surfboard as I swam way out past the rocks and beyond the waves. Although there is a natural adventurous side to me, I hold great respect for the might power of the ocean, especially the rips as I have been caught with the rip before. One must remain vigilant.

The community at Shelly Beach is awesome. There is a smile for everyone. I love the unique feel of Shelly’s true beauty. There is a sense of belonging, a community that cares. With friendships, mateships and a simple hello to lift your day. The camaraderie is fabulous and often people will offer to help with the temps too. Larisa has been awesome in helping me with the temps if I am away. My other passion is creating a positive motivational thought bubble for the day. Often people come to me, and say, “oh I needed to read something like that today.” My thought bubbles come from my Christian base and are intuitively and spiritually led. Nature is my source of inspiration. Often people in a conversation with me may use a word that is the gem to trigger my thought process for the next thought bubble. These gems also go towards speeches I do in Toastmasters. Some people would have seen me practise speeches for Toastmasters on the beach. The water is a great listener.

The variations are comparable each year. I also have it all on a Word document along with all my thought bubble sayings.

The whiteboard is located at the Shelly Beach boat ramp, attached to the pole of the council sign. It is a small A5 size, discreet enough to blend in and prominent enough for those who are interested.

I also keep a spreadsheet, and have been recording for the last 4 and half years. Larisa also created a line graph for me on the spreadsheet to compare the last 4 years. The variations are comparable each year. I also have it all on a Word document along with all my thought bubble sayings. I usually carry a folder in the car as well.

for an ocean swim, or the best water temperature for a swim here in Port Macquarie?

The highest temp I have recorded has been in February at 24.9 and the lowest was in Oct/ Nov 14.2 but those two temps are the peaks, it hovers mostly in the middle. I prefer the temperature around 18 as you feel refreshed.

Have you always lived in Port Macquarie?

We settled in Port Macquarie after a 6-year working trip around Australia because of the temperate climate. It also supported some of our other criteria, a variety of pristine beaches, close to hills and bushland, 3 roads in and out of Port Macquarie, a thriving good mix of demographics, and good health facilities.

For those interested, where do you record the water temperatures?

What is your favourite time of year

Thanks Jenny

Baxter Catherine

OUR LOCAL HELP

Cath Baxter is the founder of

Our Local Help, a charity that aims to help as many local people in need as possible, with whatever it is they need, filling the gaps where other charities and groups cannot reach.

Cath, along with the other board members and volunteers; Bron Watson, Lisa Conroy, Tom Watson, Ollie Watson, Emma-Lee

Burton-Bennett, Catherine Reynolds, Paul Watson, and Cathy Chantler, want the community to know that they’re not alone and can always reach out for help.

Hi Cath, as the founder of Our Local Help, can you share how the idea for this charity came about?

I have been involved in casual charity work in our region for the past 10 years and it has been amazing to see what can be achieved by volunteers.

Our Local Help was created to help fill in the gap between other great local charities and government agencies; that small spot of sudden and real need.

Helping others in genuine need has always come naturally to me and I want to help make a difference and to reduce others’ suffering.

The charity is now in its third year and something we are all very proud of.

Could you give us a rundown on how the charity runs and what you aim to provide for the community?

Our Local Help Inc operates with donations of food, vouchers, time and money, along with a small and mighty team of volunteers.

Helping others in genuine need has always come naturally to me. I want to help make a difference and to reduce others’ suffering. The charity is now in its third year and something we are all very proud of.

Our assistance is not limited to one thing; we help locals with a focus on supporting families where the parent/guardian is suffering from severe illness (including terminal), as well as families where a member has extra needs (disabilities).

What are some examples of some of the work you have done so far?

Our work has allowed us to help a wide range of different needs of people including meal trains, everyday essentials, specialised personal care packages, assistance with medical appointments, birthdays, christmas, lawn mowing, filling final wishes from terminally ill parents, anything practical that is needed plus more.

We are always active, and I am contacted often with people who need help as soon as possible.

We are registered with the ACNC and also registered for DGR with the ATO, which means we are able to run fundraisers and raffles that are tax deductible.

What effect have you seen these acts of kindness have on recipients and what sort

of feedback have you received?

We, as volunteers, are grateful and amazed by the generosity of our local region to assist with the practical help we provide in the community. It is such an honour to see the relief when support walks through the front door.

I think of the man who needed to support his three children, with little and no money or furniture. To see the smiles on their faces as a donated lounge was set up in the living room...priceless.

Not only with everyday struggles but also for those facing their final time on earth, supporting children, partners and family during this difficult time of transition. A time we feel privileged to share and support, developing a deeper and more passionate need to provide support when support is needed the most.

With many locals in need in some way, how do you decide what to take on next? Do you usually receive nominations for people needing assistance?

Our charity stands as a beacon of honesty and transparency and non-judgemental care. We are dedicated to the well-being of our community, nurturing those in need and spreading hope.

Our Local Help Inc Board Members work together to decide who we can help on a case-by-case basis.

We strive to help as many as we possibly can. We mainly receive nominations for people needing our assistance through their loved ones or work colleagues.

Our door is always open, and if we can’t provide the type of support needed, we know who can, and will ensure connection and follow up is provided.

What do you find are some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of what you’re doing at Our Local Help?

Like many charities, we are challenged with resources, funding and time to meet the high demand out in the community at the moment. It’s the balance between what we have at

the time, and what is needed, which can be tricky.

As we meet these challenges, we are able to see rewarding outcomes and provide real help to people who don’t have the means or the ability to resolve their situation themselves.

How can the community get behind Our Local Help? Do you need donations or volunteers?

Please join a meal train, make a monetary donation, donate unwanted household items in good condition, or time.

If you are a business, we have many businesses who donate their services such as professional cleaners, mowing, counselling services, pamper services, chemists, florist, food outlets, plus many more.

We love to support local businesses by using their services from the funds we raise through donations, raffles and charity events. We are also expanding our sponsorship from

local businesses with monthly subscriptions, vouchers and more. Please reach out to us if this is something you can assist us with.

Our mission is simple.

Just as many drops of water are needed to fill a bucket, regardless of size and we believe all contributions, large or small, become one to extinguish the fires of adversity.

A huge thank you to all who have donated, and continue to donate to help those in genuine need within our community.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

Make sure you give our page Our Local Help a like and we welcome you to join our active Facebook group ‘Our Local Help Inc’.

Email me on

info@pmq-hastingscommunityhelp.com.au

Our charity stands as a beacon of honesty and transparency and non-judgemental care.

We are dedicated to the well-being of our community, nurturing those in need and spreading hope.

Cath and the team at Our Local Help Inc.

SO, YOU DECIDED TO PUT ALL YOUR ADVERTISING DOLLARS INTO

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WHEN YOU ADVERTISE IN FOCUS, YOU GET

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Inside our content is all positive interviews with real people who live, work and play here. People who are actively participating in this community by making a difference and leading the way to shape a vibrant future for our region.

We capture the best of entertainment, food, fashion, business, real estate, health, education, travel and so much more. Combined with our signature emphasis on local that has made FOCUS an award winning publication that locals love, trust and read.

focus on

SIS FROM PICKLED PEAR MEDIA

LEGAL Light

Are the contents of this article safe from litigation because it is entitled “Without Prejudice”? If there were defamatory comments made in this article, would they be protected by the heading?

In a non-legal sense “without prejudice” means open-mindedly or without “fear or favour” but it has a special meaning in legal communication. Before examining its use in legal communication, let’s consider the notion of prejudice itself.

Prejudice in its general sense, is defined in the Cambridge Dictionary as ”an unfair and unreasonable opinion or feeling formed without enough thought or knowledge”. We all have our prejudices and have been subjected to prejudice. An inability to control our prejudices can have significant adverse consequences.

Legislation attempts to right some of the excesses of prejudice. Examples are the Age Discrimination Act 2004, Disability Discrimination Act 1992, Racial Discrimination Act 1975, Sex Discrimination Act 1984. These

are all Federal Acts but notwithstanding the legislation, discrimination or prejudice pervades our daily lives.

According to social psychologists, prejudice evolved with us as human beings because it helped us to identify our “in-group” and our “out-group” and as an instinctive mechanism to avoid real dangers. Prejudice associates a sensory cue – like seeing a rat - to an innate behavioural response – like fight or flight. The response is not rational or thought through, it is just instinctive.

Research has demonstrated that the amygdala in the brain is responsible for this subconscious prejudicial stimulus response. However, there is another part of our brain that can control the amygdala. It is called the mPFC. Empathy emanates from the mPFC and according to research the more empathy you have, the more you are able to control your prejudicial instincts.

In legal terms, prejudice has a slightly different use than it does in general language. It means “harm or injury that results or may result from some action or judgement”. For example, an employment contract may contain a non-

LEGAL

with EMILIE COOPER

LLB (HONS) BA (SPANISH)

FROM PRIEST LEGAL

compete clause because if the employee left the business and set up in competition then it would be prejudicial to the original employer. The phrase “without prejudice” has a special role to play in legal communications. It acts as a shield provided that the “without prejudice” communications relate to a genuine settlement offer or a concession that is made in order to resolve a dispute. The offers or concessions made cannot be exposed or used by your opponent in court.

However, the term “without prejudice” is often misused, and, in these circumstances, it becomes a liability not a shield, as communication that one party thought was privileged or protected becomes the other party’s evidence in the court room. So, even though the title of this article is “Without Prejudice”, its contents are not protected as there is no dispute that the article is attempting to resolve. If part of this article was defamatory in some way, the heading would not save the writer from legal action.

Need assistance with a legal matter? Contact us at Priest Legal on 6583 1777 or check us out at www.priestlegal.com.au.

Hastings ducion

FUND 2024

Kay and John Burman presenting their Continuing Scholarship to Matthew Gleeson.

Hastings Education Fund is celebrating 13 years of supporting our young people as they transition from secondary schooling to the next stage of their education - university, TAFE or vocational training.

HEF has now supported over 400 students with HEF grants totalling over $1,000,000. These funds come directly from the Hastings community with a growing band of local sponsors and supporters and we are proud to list these generous individuals and organisations on the opposite page.

HEF’s motto is ‘Dream Believe Achieve” with a small committee working to gather local support for young people who demonstrate commitment to their goal and financial and/ or circumstantial need to achieve this goal. For students living in regional and rural areas, educational costs are high, particularly when moving to a metropolitan area.

Applications for funding for study in 2025 open from August 1 to September 30. All students from the area’s high schools are eligible to apply online through the Country Education Fund website - https://cef.org.au/ apply-for-a-grant/

HEF’s Annual Charity Golf Day and Raffle, held at the Port Macquarie Golf Club, raises funds for operating costs together with other fund-raising events during the year. These

are great forums for HEF to highlight their important work, recognise valued sponsors and supporters, and celebrate significant recipient achievements. This year, current recipient Chloe Humble delivered a powerful testimonial to celebrate the support she has received via HEF, and we are honoured to reproduce this below.

“My name is Chloe Humble and I am grateful to stand before you tonight as a recipient of the Hastings Education Fund and as the continuing recipient of the Kay and John Burman Continuing Scholarship. Your generous support has been fundamental to my educational journey and so many other students like myself, allowing me to pursue a course in Exercise Physiology at Charles Sturt University.

Exercise Physiology has provided me with a deep understanding of how the human body responds to physical activity. Through this course, I’ve gained valuable knowledge that will set me up in my career. I’ve learned to design effective exercise programs and promote healthier lifestyles. This field has sparked my passion for helping others achieve their health and fitness goals, and it has equipped me with valuable skills and

insights. This has awarded me the honour of being the successful applicant for the Head of Fitness and Coaching at Genesis here in Port Macquarie.

Beyond the academic benefits, this journey has taught me discipline, perseverance, and empathy. The support from the Hastings Education Fund and Kay and John has significantly reduced my financial hardship, enabling me to focus on my studies and future goals.

To all the donors, volunteers, and supporters of the Hastings Education Fund, your contributions are making a significant impact. You are not just funding education; you are fostering dreams and building a brighter future for our community. Your belief in the power of education is inspiring and impactful to so many young people’s lives and their futures.

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment. Together, we are creating opportunities and empowering the next generation.”

If you are interested in supporting the Hastings Education Fund, we would love to hear from you.

Register your interest, visit cef.org.au/foundations/hastings or email hastingseducationfund@gmail.com

Recipients of 2024 Commencement Grants

Chloe Humble

HASTINGS EDUCATION FUND SPONSORS LISTS

CONTINUING EDUCATION

SPONSORS 2024

Kay & John Burman

Lewis Foundation

DIAMOND SPONSORS

($5,000+)

Monica Atkinson

The Barber Family Charitable Fund

Kay & John Burman

Flower Hotels

Hunt Hospitality Group

Miedecke Motor Group

Port Macquarie Veterinary Hospital

Dr Kristian Prados

Rotary Club of Port Macquarie (incl. Laurie

Barber Memorial Scholarship)

Geoff and Lynn Slack

Sovereign Hills Sales

GOLF DAY FUNDRAISING SPONSORS

Port Macquarie Golf Club

Eclipse Technology Services

Harvey Norman Technology & Entertainment

J & H Travel & Tours (John Ross OAM & Helen

Ross OAM)

James Single-PMGC Pro Shop

KFC Port Macquarie (Fran & Adam Scutts)

Meltique Beef

Your Life Fitness

"IN KIND" SPONSORS

Anne Johnston Photography

Cassegrain Wines

Focus Magazine

PLATINUM SPONSORS

(OVER $1,000 TO LESS THAN

$5,000)

Alan Taylor Civil

Apps Mechanical Repairs

Bennetts Steel (incl. Helen Glenn Memorial Scholarship)

Birdon Group

Brenda Campbell

Compass Financial Management

Dales Office Choice

Frangipani Hair & Beauty Spa

Hastings Business Women’s Network

Hastings Secondary College

Hastings Valley Fine Arts Assoc.

Dr Debbie Kors & Jeffrey Malineack

Lake Cathie-Bonny Hills Lions Club

Laurieton Bonny Hills Uniting Church

Lighthouse Medical Centre

Men & Women at Work

Learning Live

Mercure Centro Port Macquarie

My Video Producer-Clint Ranse

Snap Printing Solutions Port Macquarie

TripleM Mid Coast & Hit Mid North Coast Radio

GOLD SPONSORS ($1,000)

Business Port Macquarie

Peter & Carole Briscoe

Charles Sturt University

Commercial Project Group Pty Ltd

The Corben Family

David Plews

Port Macquarie Golf Club

Port Macquarie Lions Club

Port Macquarie Private Hospital

Neville Ramm

Rotary Club- Port Macquarie Sunrise

Rotary Club-Port Macquarie West

Stowe Australia Pty Ltd

The Friendship Club

Tierney Property Services Pty Ltd

John Turner

Debbie Moore Real Estate

Donovan Oates Hannaford

Eclipse Technology Services

Expressway Spares

Warren Frumar Grigg Advisory

Hastings Co-op

Hastings Data Loggers Pty Ltd

HEM Property

Peter & Cate Hearle

Kevin Debreceny Real Estate

Julie McLeod

Macquarie Business Accountants

Master Builders Assoc of NSW Oxley Division

Mid Coast Connect

Morgans Port Macquarie

Morris Succession Lawyers

Neopitch-Brand Storytellers

Newton Shutters, Blinds & Awnings

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

Conjoint Professor Prem Rashid

John Ross OAM & Helen Ross OAM

St Agnes Parish Education

SAAB Industries Pty Ltd

Chris & Robyn Simmonds

Richard & Anne Vella

Wauchope Rotary Club

Wauchope Vets

Leslie Williams MP

Williams Family Trust

“The Hastings Education Fund also wishes to express our gratitude to other donors who have provided funds, their time and raffle prizes during the year”

Spring is often heralded as the prime season for real estate activity on the Mid North Coast and for good reason! With the arrival of warmer weather, longer days, and vibrant blossoms, the property market tends to flourish, making it an ideal time for both buyers and sellers. As the chill of winter recedes, potential buyers emerge from hibernation, eager to explore new properties. This month I thought it fitting to hear from our very own local real estate expert and director of Platinum and Co Real Estate, Corrine Cunningham to give us her top 3 tips for buying and selling property this spring.

Thank you for the opportunity Bec. Spring naturally inspires change, motivating both sellers and buyers planning to move before the year ends. This creates increased market activity and competition, due to more properties coming to market and a greater number of buyers looking for their dream homes.

What are your top 3 tips for sellers this season?

Choose the Right Agent with a Strong Market Presence

Your agent’s reputation and market presence are crucial. Look for an agent with a proven track record in sales, expert negotiation skills, market knowledge and a history of accurately pricing properties. Pay attention to the difference between their first and last listed

prices and agents disclosing their sold prices. An agent with a strong profile will help position your property for success and an experienced negotiator can make the difference between a good offer and a great one!

Invest in a Strategic, High-Quality Marketing Campaign

A well-crafted marketing plan is essential to making your property stand out in a competitive market. Utilise professional photography, video and virtual tours to create a compelling visual narrative that engages buyers even before they step inside.

Enhance Curb Appeal and Style Your Home

First impressions are everything. Enhancing your home’s kerb appeal with a well maintained garden, inviting lighting and fresh coat of paint, can make a significant difference. Inside, declutter and consider a styling consultation to highlight your property’s best features. Maximise natural light, opt for a neutral colour palette, and add greenery to create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.

Now, what about those who are looking to get into the property market at this time of year?

Get Pre-Approved and Be Finance Ready

Before you start your home search, ensure your finances are in order. Having pre-approval not only gives you a clear budget but also demonstrates to sellers that you are serious

and capable of completing the purchase. Being finance-ready puts you in a strong position to act quickly when you find your dream home.

Start Your Research Early

Begin by attending open homes to get a feel for what you're looking for. Use this time to refine your preferences and understand the market. Once you know you are ready, request private viewings of your shortlisted properties and build relationships with agents. A strong rapport with an agent can be a valuable asset, as they can alert you to new listings and help you find the right one.

Be Clear on Your Terms and Flexibility

Understanding your preferred terms and any areas where you can be flexible is crucial. Sellers often value flexibility, especially regarding settlement timelines and this can make your offer more appealing.

Thank you Corrine, for taking the time to share these valuable insights for those looking to buy and sell this spring. There is no doubt that choosing the right agent, investing in a highquality marketing campaign and kerb appeal are all important aspects of successfully selling your home. If you are buying, early research, flexibility and being finance ready are all key strategies to ensure successful negotiations. For those who want to be buyer ready, secure your pre approval and reach out on 0421 287 386 or via www.farsworthfinancial.com.au

SPRINGING INTO THE PROPERTY MARKET THIS SEASON?

VOICE

with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

A

ugust was another busy month and I was fortunate to be invited to attend the Tourism

Symposium covering Tourism business & operators on the North Coast up to the border. One very interesting speaker was Darryl Wade who is the CEO of Intrepid Adventure Company. He made a point that I believe all of us in business are guilty of - “Too much experience on hardware, we need to add value on the software side, human experience/interactions” not just good service but human conversation and interaction. Make the planning appear spontaneous. Plan circumstances to ensure moments happen. For example, getting someone a glass of water before they even knew they were thirsty. Having the structures is great, but the magic happens outside the structure where the interaction, personal contact happens. This is where we can build a great town built on experiences for locals and tourists alike, which is something very important heading into summer and the christmas season. To do this we must let staff be themselves with not too much scripted

John will be speaking not only on the housing market, but also on going the extra mile to achieve your goals. Proudly sponsored by Mainyard.

dialogue.

Another important point Darryl made was in regards to retaining staff. In Darryl’s experience he has found that it’s rarely about the money, but more about mutual trust and respect.

Employers need to invest in their staff and show them they are appreciated. A bit of liberty is particularly good for improving the experience of customers. It’s the experiences that people don’t expect that they talk about the most. What experiences are you giving your customers?

Have you attended one of our coffee catch ups? We hold these 1st Wednesday of the month at the Corner Restaurant (cnr Clarence St & Munster Sts). This is a great way to meet other local business people in a very relaxed casual setting. Come have a coffee with us sponsored and supplied by Macquarie Waters Boutique Motel. To register go to www. businessportmacquarie.com.au.

Thanks to Todd Bates from McGrath Port Macquarie, we have been very fortunate to secure John McGrath for our September Boardroom Lunch on the 19th September. John is a well respected speaker, previous judge of The Block and renowned real estate professional. John will be speaking not only on the housing market, but also on going the extra mile to achieve your goals. Proudly sponsored by Mainyard.

In the office Malcolm and Kylie have been very busy listening to your feedback on what you would like to see from our network opportunities but also feedback on our membership packages and value to members. Taking all of this on board as well as moving with the times, we are upgrading our membership offerings to ensure you get more value. Keep your eyes open for our new membership launch.

Quote of the month- “People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.” –Simon Sinek

Have a great month

Alex

Marketing MIND

with SIS HIGGINS

MY 10 MYTHS ABOUT MARKETING THAT ARE COSTING YOU MONEY

Many businesses are thriving! Ever wonder what they’re doing right? When times are good, a great product or service might be enough, but successful businesses excel even during tough times. I’ve seen too many marketing budgets underutilised and too many misconceptions holding businesses back. So, I’m sharing some of the most common marketing myths my clients encounter - let’s make your marketing spend work for your business.

Myth 1: Social Media is Just a Fad. Some folks think it is just a trend, but in reality, it’s a crucial part of any marketing strategy. With 82% of Australians active on social media, this platform is key for reaching and engaging your audience. Social media is a powerful tool for brand engagement, customer service, and driving conversions.

Myth 2: Email Marketing is Dead. Email marketing is far from dead - it’s thriving! For every dollar spent, the average ROI is $42. 99% of consumers check their email daily, and 73% of millennials prefer business communications via email. Just ensure compliance with spam legislation - fines are steep.

Myth 3: Content Marketing is Just Blogging. While blogs are valuable, content marketing also includes videos, infographics,

podcasts, and interactive content. In Australia, videos offer a 49% faster growth rate in revenue for marketers who use them. It’s about delivering value in various formats to engage your audience wherever they are.

Myth 4: SEO is All About Keywords. SEO isn’t just about stuffing content with keywords. It involves a holistic approach, including user experience, mobile optimisation, and high-quality content. SEO is about creating a seamless, informative experience that search engines recognise and reward.

Myth 5: Only Big Brands Can Afford Influencer Marketing. Think influencer marketing is only for big players? Think again. Micro and nano-influencers, with smaller but highly engaged audiences, can be incredibly effective and affordable.

Myth 6: Traditional Media is Dead. Digital media might be trending, but TV, radio, and print still play a vital role. In Australia, over 13 million people still tune into TV, 80% listen to the radio, and let’s not forget the $16 billion spent annually across TV, radio, and print.

Myth 7: B2B Marketing is Boring. I spent about 50% of my career in this segment! B2B marketing can be just as creative and engaging as B2C/D2C. It’s about storytelling, personalisation/account based marketing, and using innovative formats to connect with other businesses in meaningful ways.

Myth 8: You Need to Be on Every Social Media Platform. You don’t need to be on every social media platform - just the ones that make sense for your business. Focus on where your audience spends their time and where you can engage them most effectively.

Myth 9: Paid Ads are More Effective Than Organic Marketing. Don’t underestimate the value of organic marketing. Building trust and engagement organically takes time, but it leads to more sustainable, long-term success. If organic marketing is having a slower return, consider incorporating paid ads. Australian businesses spent over $2 billion on Facebook, $1.6 billion on Instagram, and $400 million on LinkedIn in 2023 alone.

Myth 10: Marketing Automation is Impersonal. Automation doesn’t mean losing the personal touch. Marketing automation enhances personalisation by delivering tailored content at the right time, based on user behaviour and preferences. By debunking these common myths I hope to arm you with a well-informed approach to marketing that can make a difference in your business’s success during the highs and lows. At Pickled Pear Media, we’re here to help you cut through the noise and apply strategies that yield real results. Stay tuned for more insights right here, where I’ll share tips to keep your marketing strong, adaptable, and effective.

EDUCATION UPDATE

with STEPHEN PARES

REGIONAL SERVICE LEADER

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OFFICE, HASTINGS REGION

Students

Vocational Education and Training (VET) plays a crucial role in shaping the future of many young Australians, particularly those in Year 12 who are exploring career paths that require practical skills and industry-specific training. VET programs are designed to provide students with the skills and qualifications needed to enter directly into the workforce or pursue further education in a specialised field.

Nationally, as of 2022, approximately 26.3% of 15 to 19-year-olds participated in at least one VET course. For Year 12 students, this pathway can be particularly beneficial, offering an alternative to traditional academic routes by allowing them to gain industry recognised qualifications while still completing their high school education. Many students find that VET programs open doors to careers in areas such as trades, healthcare, technology and more, providing them with a solid foundation for their professional lives.

In catholic secondary schools in the Hastings Region, VET participation is actively encouraged and has a strong track record of supporting students through their VET journeys. Each year, a significant number of students in the region enrol in VET courses, with many successfully completing their

training and moving on to rewarding careers. VET is a popular choice among students in this region, reflecting the broader national trend where about 45.7% of Australian residents aged 15 to 19 participate in VET.

Locally, four secondary catholic colleges in the Hastings Region, Newman Senior Technical College, MacKillop College, St Joseph’s Regional College, and St Paul’s College, Kempsey, all offer robust VET programs. These institutions provide students with the practical training and industry connections needed to thrive in their chosen careers. In fact, both Newman College and St Paul's College Kempsey have been recognised as National winners of the VET in Schools Awards.

The benefits of completing a VET qualification are substantial. National data shows that around 60.6% of students who complete their VET qualification report improved employment outcomes, underscoring the value of these programs in preparing young people for the job market. Additionally, the hands-on experience and industry connections that students gain through VET are invaluable, often leading to direct job placements upon completion of their studies.

VET also plays a critical role in addressing Australia's growing skills shortage. As industries evolve and the demand for skilled labour increases, VET graduates are

stepping in to fill critical roles, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, construction, and technology. These programs equip students with the practical skills and qualifications required to meet industry needs directly, ensuring that employers have access to a workforce that is ready and capable. By choosing VET, students not only secure their future careers but also contribute significantly to the nation’s economic resilience by alleviating shortages in key areas.

For parents and students in the Hastings region considering their subjects for senior secondary schooling, it's important to recognise that VET programs are not just an alternative to university; they are a pathway to successful and fulfilling careers. Whether interested in becoming a tradesperson, a healthcare professional, or entering any number of industries where practical skills are in demand, VET offers a structured and supportive environment in which to gain the necessary qualifications.

Catholic schools in the Hastings Region are equipped to guide students through their VET options, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with their aspirations. The focus is always on providing students with the best opportunities to succeed in their chosen fields, making VET an excellent choice for many Year 12 students across the region.

Vocational Education and Training: A Pathway to Success for Hastings Region

Sandra Magann B.Bus CA . Principal

You recently rebranded your accounting practice to Magnified. What prompted this change? Like any business, we’ve evolved over the past 12 years, and we’re excited to have a fresh look to take us forward. We’ve redefined our services to focus on what we do best – providing tech-savvy, streamlined accounting solutions and expert advice for business growth. While our name has changed from SeaChange Accounting Solutions to Magnified, our commitment to our clients’ success remains the same.

Why Magnified? We’re all about providing clients with magnified results. The name reflects our team's expertise - zooming in on the important details, discovering insights and unearthing opportunities, and our commitment to maximising and growing our clients’ success. And of course there’s a clever connection with my surname Magann! It was a collaborative effort and I’ve really valued the team’s input.

Team involvement in decision-making is important to you. How were they included in setting the new direction for the business? Our amazing teamCassie, Laura, Laura May and Emily - have

Sandra Magann

Local accountant Sandra Magann likes to shake things up. She shares the reasons behind her new business brand, why contributing to community ma ers, and how accounting is more about people than numbers.

been involved in everything from strategic planning to shopping for colour-coordinated furnishings for our renovated office! Together we set a new vision and values for the business. At Magnified, we aim high. Our vision is a world where communities thrive because businesses are empowered to succeed. Our shared purpose is to grow strong, successful and sustainable businesses through specialised accounting and advisory services.

Sandra, you’ve made a significant contribution to the local community over the years. What have been some of the highlights? I’ve always embraced every opportunity to contribute, volunteer and share my skills as a way to give back, open doors and broaden my experience. I’ve been a volunteer Treasurer for the Hastings Business Women's Network, Luminosity Youth Summit, Dyslexia Mid North Coast, and Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services.

Your brand is bold and bright. Is that a reflection of your team? Definitely! We work hard, but we also have plenty of fun. We love numbers. That’s a given. But we’re really passionate about people. People who have started, grown or bought a business and have a burning desire to put big ideas into action. We’re accountants, but we’re also solution-seekers and problem-solvers. While we spend a lot of time crunching numbers and balancing the books, we’re most excited about using our accounting skills to help businesses achieve success.

We’re all committed to personal and professional growth and have even started a Magnified Book Club where we share inspiration and ideas. And we’ll often put on a playlist to keep us going through the workday – my pick is Robbie Williams!

Providing career pathways and work placements for people starting out in accounting has also been rewarding. As an example, Laura joined us as a trainee, completed her Bachelor of Accounting, is now undertaking the CPA program and has taken on leadership roles in community committees.

How would you sum up the Magnified approach to accounting? First, we find out what success means uniquely to you and then build a proactive plan to get you there. We can take care of everything, as your fully outsourced finance function or we’ll create a package to meet your accounting and advisory needs. It’s more than just making sure you meet your tax deadlines and reporting obligations. We’re here to position you to seize opportunities, avoid issues and unleash the full potential of your business.

Illuminate

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, INNOVATORS, LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

Stef & Liz Hoste ler lead one of the busiest catering teams in the region earning a swag of accolades at a local, national and global level. Char Bar notched up two consecutive titles as Best Wedding Caterer of the Year for the Mid North Coast & Northern Rivers two years running and have been given the ultimate international nod for their Fried Chicken Burger at the World Food Championships. From food trucks, to The Chip Shop, to elegant corporate and social events they are delivering on their ethos of good times, good food, good people and now embark on another journey taking the Char Bar experience trackside.

Who or what inspired the drive and determination within you to take on this journey in the culinary world - where did it all begin?

Stef had spent decades working for others before wanting to strike out on his own. With the incredible support of our friends at Moore

Stef&Liz Ho ler

Beer Brewing Co. and a few successful events under our belt, Stef decided to turn his side hustle into a full-scale business. Balancing this new venture with raising our four children, we took on other jobs for a year or two to make ends meet, all while navigating challenges like fires, floods, and the impact of COVID-19. From our modest beginnings with rented equipment in a warehouse, we’ve grown into a thriving business with a team of over 40 dedicated people, managing multiple venues and food trailers.

What were the key ingredients to realising your vision of good times, good food, and good people when you hit the catering scene in 2019?

Both of us come from backgrounds in customer service, which has shaped our approach to catering. We place value on delivering exceptional service and quality ingredients, and this commitment is at the centre of everything we do. When we launched our catering business in 2019, we recognised that truly understanding our customers was crucial. We focus on getting to know their style, needs, and budgets to create a personalised experience. By paying close attention to these details and aligning with what our clients are looking for, we set the stage for good times and great experiences to follow. Stef, Char Bar creates everything from

classic chip shop experiences and food trucks, to fine food experiences for weddings and corporate events and everything in between. How hard has it been to diversify and scale and keep the original dream, quality and passion alive?

Our dreams and passions are alive but have evolved. Quality food and customer service are core values we stay true to. When it comes to diversity, Liz is the mastermind. From grazing boxes and corporate catering to our beloved The Chip Shop, Liz’s vision has been crucial. In early 2021, when we struggled to find a production kitchen to expand into, Liz persuaded me to check out a takeaway shop on Lord Street. What initially seemed like just another option soon sparked the idea for The Chip Shop.

What has been your most effective tool/s or attribute/s as a business owner that has enabled you to steer Char Bar from idea to successful reality?

The team. We love our team. Without the support of those who work with us, it would not have been possible. From our Chip Shop manager, Erica, to our apprentice chef, Jamison and the ever-growing crew of casuals and juniors who all believe in what we do and why. Every day they turn up alongside us and strive to create something special that shines through in our products and services.

Additionally, seeking external business coaching locally and interstate and valuing feedback have been crucial tools for our growth. We actively use this feedback to refine our approach and continuously improve and evolve. Stef, You both have had careers both in and out of the foodie world. As creative and business minds, do you subscribe to a firm business plan or follow your gut instinct?

A little bit of both. We mix it up with both a solid game plan and some good old gut feeling. Liz is great at behind-the-scenes planning, so we know where we’re headed each quarter. I, on the other hand, often go with my instincts and make on-the-fly decisions. This combination of planning and spontaneity makes our team work well and helps us succeed. We balance and push each other out of our comfort zones.

You have curated a network of industry peers and local event suppliers. How important are these relationships to the success of your business?

Our network of industry peers and local event suppliers is crucial to our success. The hospitality world is tight-knit, and we’ve been incredibly lucky to build strong relationships with locals who support each other. We’ve had numerous people from other businesses, like Stevie from Four Espresso, Brad from Coast, and Pete from Bill’s Fish House, step in and help us out whenever we needed it. Ken from Ken Littles Fruit and Veg generously let us park our food truck on his property when our business closed during COVID. These connections are

priceless, and we’re truly grateful for our hospitality family.

What has been your most outstanding achievement in your business journey? Conversely, what was your greatest challenge?

Opening The Chip Shop was a huge milestone, and winning the World Food Championship for our fried chicken burger was a real highlight. Taking home two local business awards in 2023 and being named Best Wedding Caterer on the NSW North Coast for two years running has been an incredible honour. One of our favorite things is taking our kids to The Chip Shop and seeing their excitement about “our” CHIP SHOP - that never gets old.

Conversely, COVID-19 hit with a bang and shut things down. We had to adjust quickly, think outside the box, and adapt our plans. This taught us how to be flexible and creative in the face of unexpected challenges.

How instrumental have sages and critics been in the evolution of your business? What is the most valuable lesson they taught you?

We’ve found that being our own toughest critics has been crucial to our growth. By constantly asking ourselves and our clients how we can improve, we’ve evolved and expanded our business year after year.

Early feedback from critics and other businesses that we have worked closely with in a “Board of Directors program” helped us rethink our

approaches and has taught us the value of staying open to feedback and adapting. Accessing business coaching with local coach Stacey Morgan was incredibly beneficial. The guidance and fresh perspectives provided by Stacey and Pete (our interstate business coach) helped us navigate the challenges and effectively refine our strategies. Embracing criticism and seeking external expertise have shaped our success and pushed us to improve continuously.

What can we expect from Char Bar at your new racecourse location?

We can’t wait to help reinvigorate the Port Macquarie Race Club. The club’s facilities are amazing, and along with the shared visions of ourselves and the dedicated team onsite, we know its potential is limitless. There’s so much we can do - weddings, exhibitions, private parties, and corporate events. Racing’s starting up again this month, and with Port Cup only weeks away, we’re excited to welcome back our community.

Come and see for yourself on September 29th at Port Macquarie Race Club.

OGEMS GARDEN

with JOHN VAN DER LEY

AND THE ABUNDANCE PLANT NUTS

BE CREATIVE, BUT DON’T FORGET THE NATIVES!

ften the idea of planting either natives or exotics exclusively can limit the palate for texture, colour and contrast, so here are our tips for combining them with success in our warm temperate Mid North Coast landscape.

Part of implementing any garden design might be to get the bones laid out before you begin the fleshing out. Trees will take the longest time to provide you with shade or fruit, so get them in the ground as soon as you can. Investing in them at the beginning of your planting schedule will be your most costly purchase but the dividends will be priceless. And it is here that the choice of native or exotic comes into play. Often deciduous native trees will lose their leaves in warmer months, when you need to make use of shade for cooling your home and outdoor leisure areas. However, strategic placement of exotic species, like Maples, Birches, Magnolias, Liriodendron, Crepe Myrtles and for spectacular Autumn colour the stunning Persimmon will allow sun

to warm your home in winter when they are dormant and offer beneficial cooling shade for Summer.

Enjoy the plants, the gardens, the beautiful Abundance Lakeside Café and immersing yourself in nature.

The fleshing out medium height layer of the garden is where combining foliage and flowering species gets interesting. Birds, bees and small wildlife will love our native Grevilleas, Prostranthera, Eremophila, Banksia and Westringias in coastal and dryer sections. Add exotics such as Bougainvilleas, Azaleas, Rhaphiolepis and members of the Protea family and you will have colour and a compatible watering regime. For moister areas, the use of Callistemons, Melaleucas and grafted Grevilleas are more adaptable. Layering with the glossy foliage of Gardenias, Camellias , Metrosideros, Cordyline fruiticosa and Syzygiums will add lushness and bursts of colour.

Getting to the bottom of things, ground covers provide habitat for lizards and other ground dwelling wildlife and one of the most popular is the exotic Trachelospermum tricolour. It is an all-weather, colourful, fragrant plant that retards weeds and is very drought hardy. Native alternatives are Myoporum,

prostrate Banksia, prostrate Westringea, Goodenia ovata and Carpobotrus.

These are just a few of the many gems of plant advice we have to offer. Purchasing your plants, fertilizer and potting mix from Abundance Nursery is not just about supporting local business. You are doubly rewarded with advice from passionate and well-trained horticulturalists. We have 120 years of combined knowledge, education and experience and we love helping you to create a garden you can enjoy all year around.

Over the next few months, you will see our nursery evolving with some exciting new shade areas, expanded giftware and pots and one of the best selections of native and exotic plants on the coast.

Open Wednesday to Friday 8.30 am to 2.30 pm and weekends from 8am to 2.30 pm.

Enjoy the plants, the gardens, the beautiful Abundance Lakeside Café and immersing yourself in nature.

Until next time, happy gardening!

John van der Ley.

Managing Director (BSc, Dip Ed, Cert. Hort.)

You will find us at 274 Rawdon Island Road Sancrox, just 15 minutes from Port Macquarie and 10 minutes from Wauchope.

From left, Levi Edwards, Carol Goulding, John Van der Ley and Tracey Wright. Missing from shot are Cherie Smith and Bowie Raffan.

with ANTHONY BERINGEN HOME

Styling

FROM OPEN HOUSE FURNITURE

HDown-sizing or ‘rightsizing’ to a smaller home is an exciting opportunity to redefine your living space. It’s a chance to create a home that reflects your current lifestyle, focusing on what truly ma ers and le ing go of what doesn’t.

RIGHT-SIZING: TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE PERFECT FURNITURE AND FURNISHINGS

owever, transitioning from a larger home to a more compact one can also present challenges, especially when it comes to selecting the right furniture, rugs and soft furnishings. The good news is, with a thoughtful approach and expert guidance, you can transform your smaller space into a stylish, comfortable haven that feels just right.

While many of our customers are choosing to embrace the low-maintenance convenience of the purpose-built lifestyle communities springing up around the Port Macquarie and Camden Haven areas, they often tell us about the associated challenges that come with adapting to a new, smaller space. This is why it’s crucial to choose furniture and accessories carefully. Here’s how:

Prioritise Functionality and Flexibility. Down-sizing to a smaller home doesn’t mean compromising on style or comfort. With careful planning and the right pieces, you can create a space that’s perfectly suited to your needs. By prioritising functionality, choosing appropriately scaled furniture, and adding the right soft furnishings, you can make your new home feel just as welcoming and stylish as your larger one. Scale Down with Style. One of the most common pitfalls when down-sizing is holding

on to furniture that’s too large for your new home. While it might be tempting to bring along beloved pieces, oversized furniture can overwhelm a smaller space, making it feel cramped and cluttered. Instead, opt for smaller scale furniture that’s proportionate to your new rooms. Look for sleek, streamlined designs that create a sense of openness and flow.

Rugs and Soft Furnishings. Rugs and soft furnishings play a crucial role in defining the style and comfort of your home. When downsizing, choose rugs that help delineate different areas within an open-plan space - for example, separating the living area from the dining space. Select lighter colours and simple patterns that can make a room feel larger and more cohesive. Resist dark, heavy or overly busy designs or finishes. Layering similar colour tones is another technique to add depth and texture without overcrowding the room.

When it comes to soft furnishings like cushions, throws, and decor accessories, focus on quality over quantity. Select items that are meaningful or textural that complement your colour scheme and add warmth and personality to your home. Soft furnishings are also a great way to introduce colour and pattern without overwhelming the space. For example, neutral-toned furniture can be brought to life with vibrant cushions, a statement throw or a striking piece of art work.

Lighting. Once again, opt for lighter shades in your floor and table lighting and lamp shades to enhance brightness and to create a spacious feel in smaller areas. Go for lamps in soft natural tones or perhaps even light metals to match your overall design style to maintain a cohesive look throughout your home.

Mirrors. To effectively use mirrors in a small space, place mirrors opposite or adjacent to windows to reflect and enhance natural light and create the illusion of a larger room. Create Illusions of height and width using tall, fulllength mirrors to make ceilings appear higher or wide mirrors to expand the room's width. Choose large, minimalist designs to prevent overwhelming the space and maintain a cohesive, clutter-free look.

Bedding. To maximise a small space with bedding, select light, neutral colours like white, beige, sand, stone, khakis or light pastels. These tones create an illusion of more space by reflecting light and making walls appear farther away. Additionally, using plain fabrics can enhance this effect, while heavily patterned or printed materials may make the room feel smaller. Incorporating a mix of lighter bedding with darker accents can add interest without overwhelming the space. Avoid, big, bulky or dark bed frames as well, as these tend to make the room feel smaller.

Over the past month we have seen the most beautiful fabric samples come through the showroom, so I thought it timely to chat to you about curtains. I was recently asked what the difference is between what you do and what you can buy ready-made in major retail outlets or online, so I thought I would give you my humbled opinion.

The Australian market is flooded with readymade curtain options however we have seen an increasing demand for custom-made curtains among homeowners who want to have curtains that fit correctly and fit with their tastes and preferences.

SHUTTERS, BLINDS & AWNINGS

Spring has finally sprung and as we chase down every li le ray of sunshine on our skin, our homes are excited to be opened back up to allow that balmy breeze in.

window they are being made for…..sounds simple really. At Newtons we visit our customers home, discuss their requirements, and take accurate measurements of the window. Our curtain seamstresses make the curtain to fit the window perfectly. Ready-made curtains however, come in a standard size so the expectation that they will fit like a glove is not always the reality.

During your curtain experience with Newtons, you will be looked a er by an all-inclusive network of specialists.

There are some key differences between readymade and custom-made curtains, and I feel like I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t point them out.

Homeowners who decide to use ready-made at their home are generally attracted to the convenience of these curtains. More often than not, ready-made curtains usually provide an easy and quick solution and within a few hours you can completely change the look of a room. Custom-made curtains are made to fit the

Generally speaking, you should expect to pay

a little more for custom-made curtains than ready-made but keep in mind, custom-made are expertly crafted by hand in our factory whereas ready-made are produced in bulk. This means you can expect some compromises on quality, materials and attention to detail.

One of the most significant differences between the custom-made curtain and ready-made has to do with getting the kind of look that you want.

With ready-made curtains, buyers will likely find a limited selection of colours, designs and fabric types however, for those windows which are not standard height or width or those having unusual requirements, chances are that they will encounter some problems and will need to consider custom ones – which also provides endless choices when it comes to colour, design and fabric choices.

Custom-made are the perfect choice for those in need of curtains that are more aesthetically pleasing, and your extra personality is well catered for with additions such as tailored headings, pelmets, and tie backs.

During your curtain experience with Newtons, you will be looked after by an all-inclusive network of specialists. Monica, our curtain sales consultant and the lady who has been making and selling curtains her whole working career, will be in charge of your free in-home measure and quote. Once your order has been finalised Dot and Wendy in our curtain workroom will hand craft your bespoke design with the utmost care and attention. Craig and Andy are our soft furnishing installers who have mastered the art of delicately hanging and dressing your curtains so that you are captivated by their beauty when you see them for the first time.

After all is said and done, your choice will depend on your preferences, and, if after reading the above you still have no idea what that may be, don’t forget we have our expert interior designer each and every Thursday to help support your curtain decision and any other design help you may need. This service is free of charge as we want you to have confidence in long-lasting style choices for your home. Please remember we also have up to 36 months interest free so you can bring your design thoughts and dreams into a reality.

‘Old

MANOR Le

site of the Surfside Motel replaced by $40 million Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care,

purpose built home o ering adaptable living environments.’

Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care is a brand new aged care service in the local Lake Cathie area.

Residents

Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care is located at 2 Saltwater Place Lake Cathie NSW 2445. We opened the doors to our first residents on the 20th of March 2024.

Lake Cathie Manor

Aged Care is a beautiful building designed to enhance the indoor and outdoor living spaces for the residents.

Encompassing 129 single suite accommodation, each room with its own ensuite bathroom.

Wings are set in 3 cottages with each wing having the ability to adapt to single units if there is an infection outbreak, reducing the risk of transmission to the other residents. There are safe outdoor walking spaces in

the gardens and waist high garden areas for residents to plant vegetables. There are also large wooden chairs to sit outside and embrace nature.

In the interior of the home, the cottages are connected by a semi-circle indoor pathway.

There are footpaths at the garden lounges which connect all the cottages together.

Lake Cathie Manor Aged

Care is a beautiful building designed to enhance the indoor and outdoor living spaces for the residents.

koala corridor.

Community Outreach

Lake Cathie Manor

Aged Care has donated back to the community and regenerated a large portion of our land, some 2.5 hectares (10,000 sq meters) which is now accessible by the community.

This includes a water detention system of 3 ponds which safely filter water into Lake Cathie.

These water ponds offer a wonderful haven for the native fauna and flora. The area has been planted as a wild garden area and a

We were recently visited by Leslie Williams MP, Member for Port Macquarie who toured our home and was very impressed with the building and commented that it is a wonderful addition to the Camden Haven community. (Facebook post 12th March 2024).

Commitment

Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care have demonstrated their commitment to the community:

Planted 22 trees in the Koala corridor. Planted 100 trees on the remainder of the garden area.

Paid a vegetation management contribution of $120,000 over the next 20 years.

Donated 10,000 sq meters of land.

Reducing our carbon footprint

Our building has the ability to harvest rain water which then supplies our large irrigation system and also uses the reclaimed water for sewer purposes.

We have included a large solar system into our build to enable the heating of our water and reduce our energy consumption.

WELCOME TO LAKE CATHIE MANOR AGED CARE

Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care is a beautiful new purpose-built residential aged care home in the tranquil surroundings of Lake Cathie.

Why Choose Lake Cathie Manor Aged Care?

• Personalised Care Programs

• A Welcoming Environment

• Expert Team

• Continuous GP Support

• Chef Prepared Meals

• Allied Health Services

• Respite Care

• Palliative Care

Our residents are able to enjoy our architect-designed facilities, landscaped gardens, cinema and on-site coffee shop, secure in the knowledge that they have the care and support of our friendly, experienced team. We provide 24-hour personalised care to residents in an ageing in place environment.

Permanent, respite and palliative care services are available.

James Fay

Fay James will be celebrating 60 years of service as a nurse this November. She has worked in a few di erent fields in that time and is currently a Patient Transport Nurse and beloved sta member of Kempsey District Hospital.

Hi Fay. Can you tell us a bit about how you started out as a nurse and what your training process was like then?

I grew up on the Northern beaches of Sydney. I decided to become a nurse and investigated the process. My grandmother was against my decision and said she would speak to my father and put a stop to it, reminding me about the dangers that nurses face during wars.

I then applied to Taree, Broken Hill and Darwin and was accepted by Taree first. I was excited about my new adventure and commenced my nursing career on 24 November 1964.

I passed my three weeks preliminary and the three months probationary. My first tutor said, “From now on, you will be known as a nurse.” I enjoyed all my studies. In the first year, I learned how to attend to patients’ care needs and acceptable bed making. I learned a lot from my senior nurses and how to deal with every attitude of my patients.

No patient was allowed to have a pressure sore which meant strict turning and soap and water massage to the area. I sterilised pans and

urinals in boiling water and tested urines with a Bunsen burner.

Training was structured and controlled, sometimes militant. As I passed my exams and progressed with my training, my responsibilities increased, and I enjoyed this.

You have been nursing for almost 60 years, quite an impressive career! What do you enjoy most about it?

What I have most enjoyed about nursing is the challenge of understanding and assessing patients’ needs as it enabled me to understand the bigger picture and give better care. I enjoy the contact and the conversations and the ability to listen. I enjoy being their advocate and obtaining the care and action that they need.

What areas of nursing have you worked in over the years and what is your current role?

I have worked in surgical, medical, intensive care, orthopaedics and aged care. I have also worked as a casual nurse on the Central Coast, where I had a great variety of different wards to attend. Presently, I work as a Patient Transport Nurse.

As a Patient Transport Nurse, what might a typical day on the job be like for you?

A typical day as a Patient Transport Nurse begins with checking stock to ensure it matches what is written on the checklist and replacing missing or outdated stock. I then ensure the vehicle is clean and that the patients we are

I received 100 per cent for my Ophthalmic exam. e doctor was so happy because he said no one had ever obtained that mark in his exams before. It was more rewarding to see the doctor so happy.

asked to transfer meet our guidelines. I make sure the patients have been prepared correctly for whatever their transfer is for, and that the paperwork is compiled correctly. I cross check patients on the computer to ensure I receive correct information so that patient care continues with my handover to the next facility. At all times, I ensure the patient’s comfort is maintained as road travel can be rough and uncomfortable. I also uphold their nutrition and hydration.

What have been some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of being a nurse?

I’ve found the most rewarding aspects of being a nurse have been to see my patients improving and them feeling positive about their progress. Challenges have included learning new techniques and treatments as I progressed in my training. I couldn’t wait to accomplish new things.

Could you share a bit about your experience with your colleagues and community at Kempsey District Hospital?

At Kempsey District Hospital, I’ve found most of my colleagues to be pleasant, and being a country town, they were most helpful. We certainly have our share of good cooks and people who grow produce. In the hospital workplace itself, there is always someone who is helpful and will go the extra mile.

Over your years of service in healthcare, you must have seen a lot. Have there been any stories or experiences that have really stuck with you that you can share?

One story that I will never forget was when I was relatively new and a trainee. I was sick and felt dreadful. The rule was that if we became ill and needed to see a doctor we had to wait outside the Deputy Director of Nursing’s office. We had to present in acceptable attire, but because I was so ill, I had just pulled on my

white boots as footwear. When I got to the office, I was scolded and asked, “How dare I present to the office with white boots!” I was made to go back to the nurses’ home and put on acceptable footwear. I did so, and made it back where consequently, the doctor admitted me to hospital with pneumonia!

Another time, I received 100 per cent for my Ophthalmic exam. The doctor was so happy because he said no one had ever obtained that mark in his exams before. It was more rewarding to see the doctor so happy. Where to from here? Can you imagine slowing down yet or are you planning on continuing to care for us for a bit longer?

I’m still working on this! I have nine acres and a house that needs my attention. Saturday is virtually my only day off because Sunday is church. I have already experienced travel, but there are places in Australia I want to revisit. It will be a real adjustment not to nurse anymore.

CONSIDERING THE NEXT STEP?

Villas available now from only $279,000

Advantages of Sunrise Villiage

At Sunrise you will find a caring, secure, independent community lifestyle, with onsite emergency support available 24/7 and in the privacy of your own home.

Advantages of Sunrise

Live independently, enjoy a relaxing retirement lifestyle, of your choosing. At Sunrise Village we have a variety of villas, with different layouts to suit singles and couples. Let us show you our spacious, modern village. If you are ready to move now or preparing for the future, you are sure to be impressed.

At Sunrise Village we have a variety of villas, with different layouts to suit singles and couples. Let us show you our spacious, modern village. If you are ready to move now or preparing for the future, you are sure to be impressed.

Advantages of Sunrise Villiage

Hi Julie. What do you see as being the key aspects that residents love about being part of the Sunrise community? Key aspects would be the sense of community, personal security, fun and laughter, and confidence in the knowledge that even though residents are living an independent life in a retirement village, there is care and support when, and if they need it.

What amenities and special features does Sunrise Supported Living offer its residents? The first special feature to highlight would be the onsite 24/7 emergency response and support service provided by qualified care workers with on-call registered nurse support. Number two would be the morning teas provided to all residents 365 days a year. Served in our breezeway, morning tea includes platters of fruit, and a variety of biscuits, cakes, slices, sausage rolls and other hot finger food, made on-site by our pastry chef and once a month we celebrate all birthdays for the month with a big birthday cake at morning tea. The third would be that we have a commercial kitchen with three chefs providing exceptional

Sunrise

SUPPORTED LIVING

Independent retirement living… with extra care

Retirement living dedicated to supporting your wellbeing, Sunrise o ers a community lifestyle commi ed to your independent way of life together with care and support in the privacy of your own secure self-contained villa.

meal choices for lunch and dinner, served in the dining room or by ‘room service’ - particularly popular if residents don’t feel like cooking themselves. The meals are nutritious, colourful, varied, and tailored to dietary needs and are delicious. Meals are served 365 days a year. Sunrise is also a pet friendly village, has lovely gardens and lawn areas to walk in and several gazebos to sit back and relax in with residents and friends.

What is it that genuinely sets Sunrise apart from other retirement living villages?

Independent living in a safe and caring environment that provides choices of lifestyle as the years progress.

As the village manager Julie, what have been some of highlights in your role to date? Recently our activities and wellness co-ordinator – Cindy, brought the Olympics to Sunrise village. Over two weeks, while the Paris Olympics were on, we had several resident and staff teams compete in archery, pistol shooting, seated beach volleyball, seated badminton, discus, wheelchair equestrians, synchronised swimming, opening and closing ceremonies, just to name a few. This was so much fun! It has also been wonderful to be part of the

Sunrise culture of caring and respect for the residents and the committed staff. Every day I observe something lovely or have a nice chat with people in the village and am constantly reminded why I love working at Sunrise village. I understand 1 and 2 bedroom villas are currently available for sale and residents are welcome to bring their pet with them. Can you tell us a little about each of these property styles. All our villa styles are named after native plants or trees, Eucalypt, Casuarina, Tallowwood, Waratah etc. and each is styled differently. All villas are fully self contained, have a rear court-yard and garden area. All white goods are provided with scheduled and ongoing maintenance provided by the village. For people interested in taking a tour and meeting with the supportive team at Sunrise, how can they best get in touch? The Sunrise Supported Living village website has villa floor-plans and photos and a map of the whole village. sunrisesupportedlivingtuncurry.com.au To come in and speak with me or my assistant Carly, just phone Sunrise Village on 02 5528 5000

Thanks Julie.

JULIE BLATCH VILLAGE MANAGER

CareXcell stands as a leading provider of Home Care Packages, Veterans’ Home Care, NDIS, and a variety of community-based services. Our mission is to enable and empower individuals to maintain their independence and continue living in the comfort of their own homes. Whether it’s assistance around the house, transportation, nursing services, or helping clients stay connected with loved ones, our dedicated team is always ready to provide support.

What specific services do you provide to clients?

At CareXcell, we offer a wide range of services funded by the Commonwealth Government, including Home Care Packages, Veterans’ Home Care, Out of Hospital Care services, and various smaller programs. Our services cover domestic assistance, personal care, nursing and allied health services, meal preparation, transportation, and comprehensive care management. Each service is designed to cater to the unique needs of our clients, ensuring they receive the best possible care.

How do you tailor your services to meet individual client needs?

We work with each client to understand what is important to them and what their preferences are. We use that information to tailor when, how and where services are delivered.

What qualities do you look for when hiring caregivers?

At CareXcell, we believe that the key to exceptional care lies in our caregivers. We look for compassionate, fun, and empathetic individuals who share our commitment to supporting older and vulnerable people. While qualifications are important, the attitude and approach of our caregivers are

what truly make a difference in the lives of our clients.

Can you describe the training and support you provide to your staff?

We are committed to the continuous development of our team. All CareXcell staff undergo extensive training before they start and continue with monthly face-toface and online training. Our training covers standard topics such as infection control and manual handling, as well as client-specific training. This ensures that our staff are always equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to provide the highest standard of care.

How do you build trust and rapport with

your clients and their families?

Trust and communication are the cornerstones of our relationship with clients and their families. We strive to be honest and transparent in all our interactions, embodying our belief that everyone is equal and deserving of respect and inclusion.

comfortably living in their own homes, surrounded by the familiarity of their environment and community.

What advice would you give to families considering in-home care for their loved ones?

How has technology changed the way you provide care?

While technology plays a role in modern care, we prioritise human connection. Our focus is on using technology to support our team and clients, enabling our care managers and frontline staff to spend more quality time with clients. We believe that personal interaction is irreplaceable, and we ensure that technology remains a background support rather than a replacement for human care.

What are your long-term goals for your business?

As we grow, our core focus remains on providing exceptional services that empower individuals to live independently at home. Our mission is to support more individuals in preserving their independence while

In-home care can greatly enhance a person’s daily wellbeing. Studies show that for every hour of home care a person receives per week, the likelihood of being admitted into residential aged care decreases by 6%.

When choosing a provider, it’s crucial to look for quality. All providers are assessed by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, so it’s worth checking if the provider meets the standards. Consider what’s important to your loved one and ensure that the provider aligns with

What has been the most rewarding

aspect of running your in-home care business?

e most rewarding part of running an in-home care business is seeing the positive impact we make in people’s lives. Knowing that our team helps individuals stay safer, happier, and more independent is incredibly fulfilling.

The most rewarding part of running an in-home care business is seeing the positive impact we make in people’s lives. Knowing that our team helps individuals stay safer, happier, and more independent is incredibly fulfilling. We also emphasise worklife balance within our team, ensuring that everyone takes care of themselves so they can provide the best care to others.

How can we get in touch?

To learn more about our services or to get in touch, call us at 1300 707 761 or visit our website at www.carexcell.com.au

exoring

GLENFERN OF LIFE AT haer

What better way to discover the next chapter of life than at the recent Winter Warmer Event hosted at Glenfern. Attendees enjoyed the warming atmosphere inside the stunning clubhouse, chatted with homeowners by the fireplace and heard firsthand why they love living within the community.

Designed to elevate the over 50s living experience, Glenfern hosts an array of

exceptional amenities including a 25m lap pool, spa, gymnasium, bowling green, and pickleball court promoting an active and engaging lifestyle. Although a new community, Glenfern already has a buzzing social calendar with BBQs, dinners, movie nights in the cinema, and morning teas held at the community café, lovingly named Ferneys, organised by residents.

There are a range of modern affordable homes at Glenfern,

A crowd favourite is the Blue Gum design, perfect for those who enjoy entertaining with a modern kitchen overlooking the dining and living room...

each designed for easy living. Attendees had the opportunity to view all of the five display homes during the event and get a feel for what life could look like living at Glenfern. A crowd favourite is the Blue Gum design, perfect for those who enjoy entertaining with a modern kitchen overlooking the dining and living room and sliding doors opening onto the outdoor alfresco area. Another favourite is the Watonga design offering a low maintenance lifestyle without compromising on style or luxury! The design features a spacious master bedroom complete with a walk-in robe and ensuite, spare bedroom with separate bathroom and a private alfresco area at the front of the home capturing nature light into the home.

If you’re eager to learn more join us at the Glenfern Sunset BBQ Event from 4pm until 7pm on 19 September 2024 and see firsthand what life could look like living at Glenfern. Register your interest by contacting Sue Shepherdson, Sales Manager on (02) 7225 2900 or glenfernsales@hometownaustralia.com.au.

You’re invited to Glenfern’s Sunset BBQ

Thursday, 19 September 2024

Enjoy a delicious late afternoon BBQ, live entertainment, and a spectacular sunset while you explore what makes Glenfern a special place to call home. This is a wonderful chance to mingle with future neighbours, enjoy great food, and take a tour of our stunning display homes.

Date: Thursday, 19 September

Time: 4:00PM - 7:00PM

Location: 19 Glenfern Ave, Thrumster NSW

Scan QR Code to RSVP, or call our sales team on (02) 7255 2900.