Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i224

CREEDENCE

@ GLASSHOUSE

On view: 31 August until 24 November

Showcasing a selection of local senior high school and TAFE creatives

On view: 30 November 2024 - 9 February 2025

Exhibition opening: Friday 6 December, 6pm Free event. Bookings essential.

AN AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL TOURING EXHIBITION

On view: 9 November 2024 to 2 February 2025

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE

Corner Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

CURATOR’S TALK with Laura Webster, Head of Art, Australian War Memorial

Saturday 9 November, 11am. Free event. Bookings essential.

Glasshouse Opening Hours Mon - Fri 9am - 4pm Sat, Sun & Public Hol’s 9am - 2pm Closed Christmas Day & Anzac Day

Gallery Opening Hours

- Fri 10am - 4pm Sat, Sun & Public Hol’s 10am - 2pm Closed Mondays

The Glasshouse is supported by

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

Robert Campbell Jr (1944–1993), The Past and Present of 200 Years, 1986, synthetic polymer paint on canvas, AWM2020.721.1 Image courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government’s Visions of Australia program.

As i sit here and write our team column for the November edition I can’t help but get excited for the Christmas season. My team are currently telling me to stop as it’s only November, however I love Christmas and think it should kick off in November, who’s with me?! Parties, summer weather, people are kinder and happier, and not to mention carols, food and just all round good vibes! Sounds perfect to me, and speaking of party season our cover star this month is Madison Wilson. Many of you would know Maddi from the

mutliple businesses that this mother of 4 runs, not to mention her well deserved business awards.

Inside this edition: We had the pleasure of speaking with Reverend Daniel from St Thomas Anglican Church. The church will celebrate it’s bicentennial in the first week of December and we were more than happy to help showcase the church and all the exciting activites they will be doing to celebrate this amazing milestone. Liberty Family and Domestic Violence Services Coastal Walk is on again this November, Sunday 24th to be precise. Check out how you can get involved

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

on pages 50 & 51.

A huge congratulations to Stacey Morgan who has just won the NSW Business Leader of the Year at the NSW Business Awards, also Finnians Tavern who took out Best Live Music Venue in NSW at the AHA Awards along with Settlers Inn Hotel who took home Best Regional Local Pub and highly commended for Best Regional Casual Dining. Last but not least an official congratulations to our new Mayor Adam Roberts and our new councillors. Looking forward to seeing what lies ahead and wishing Adam and all the team the best of luck.

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

Maria Doherty is the General Manager of Koala Conservation Australia, who are renowned for their pioneering work with koalas and are tirelessly fighting to save our endangered koala population.

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

ISSUE 224 - NOVEMBER 2024

INTERVIEWS

Rev. Berris has been Senior Minister for the past two years at St. Thomas. With its 200th anniversary approaching, Daniel reflects on the church’s profound history and tells us what to expect from the church’s Open Day.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

58. Lou Perri - Palate Pleasures

83. Rachel Leman - Miss Motivator

86. Dr. Kristy - Beauty of Ageing

88 Grayce Gerke - Women’s Health

90. Bernie Ginane - Find Your Calm

113. Sis Higgins - e Marketing Mind

117.Alex Glen-Holmes - Business Voice

119. Stephen Pares - Education Update

120. Kate Wood-Foye - Illuminate

123. Bec Farnsworth - Money Ma ers

125. Jeremy Brigden - Legal Light

140. Anthony Beringen - Home Styling

142. Melinda Newton - Newton Blinds

Thank you for your contribution to focus

Lola Styles is a force on the volleyball court and her determination has seen her representing NSW at some big competitions. She is also an accomplished surfer and we are excited to see where this sport takes her.

DANIEL BERRIS

MARIA DOHERTY

ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

BOOTS N BEATS COUNTRY NIGHT

It’s time to grab your boots and get down to Settlers Inn from 7:30 PM ‘til late. Sip on cowboy-themed cocktails, dig into some tasty country-style food specials, and show off your best country outfits. So saddle up, round up your crew, and let’s party country-style! Brought to you by Settlers Inn and Jack Daniels. Book a table in the main bar to secure your seat. When 9th November 7.30pm

Where 101 Hastings River Dr, Port Macquarie

SINGE PARISH MEMORIAL RACE

Registrations open on the day from 6.15am and close at 6.45am sharp for race briefing and race start at 7am. Non members welcome $15. Social and junior distances also available. Did you know with our social distance you can do a team? Bring a friend or 2 and do a leg each!

Online registrations are open now. webscorer.com/register?raceid=369667. Where McInherney Park

When 10th of November

NOVEMBER

TURING THE TIDE ON OCEAN PLASTIC

In this interactive workshop, you’ll explore the ocean plastic cycle. Empower change. Experience circular recycling. This familyfriendly workshop is best suited for children 8+ and adults. Please note: Children under 14yrs must be accompanied by a registered parent/carer. When 12th November 4-5.30pm Where Makerspace Register here connected.pmhc.nsw.gov.au

THE NUTCRACKER

Unwrap the magic of The Nutcracker this Christmas. Be enchanted by the incredible talent of international ballet stars as they take you on a journey through a winter wonderland. When November 20th 7pm Where Glasshouse Port Macquarie

COASTAL WALK AGAINST DOMESTIC & FAMILY VIOLENCE

Join us for the Coastal Walk Against Domestic & Family Violence and take steps towards a safer community! Register online at libertycoastalwalk.com.au. Event starts at Westport Park at 8.30am with a BBQ breakfast, guest speakers and entertainment. At 9.30am we set off towards the beaches. When 24th November 8.30am Where Westport Park, Port Macquarie NSW.

2024 CHRISTMAS FAIR

Invite your family and friends, and let’s make this the most wonderful time of the year! This FREE event is open to all. Don’t miss out on the holiday fun! Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the magic of the season!

When Friday 29th November, 4-9pm Where Town Green/Square, Port Macquarie More info pmhc.nsw.gov.au

Wilson

Madison Wilson is the epitome of entrepreneurial spirit. As the owner of four successful businesses and a busy wife and mum of four, Madison’s name is quickly becoming synonymous with party perfection throughout the region. Whether it’s her cake artistry or creative event lighting, she brings energy and innovation to every venture. We sat down with Madison to discuss her journey, what drives her, and how she balances it all.

Hi Madison, it’s a pleasure to speak with you. Please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us a little about each of your thriving businesses?

Thank you for the warm welcome. I’m Madison Wilson, and I own four businesses; Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food, Letz Get Lit 2444, Love Letters Port Macquarie, and Little Whispers Picnics & Teepees. Each business offers something unique, but they all revolve around celebrations and creating memorable experiences for people.

Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food was my first venture. I started it in 2018 with a love for baking and a desire to offer more than just cakes. We provide everything from cupcakes and cookies to party foods and grazing boards. Letz Get Lit 2444 is my event lighting and décor business. We offer lighting for every kind of event, from weddings to corporate functions, and we’ve recently expanded our services to include fun elements like candy

bar carts, backdrops and shimmer walls, and inflatable party rooms. Our latest venture has been opening a storefront in Wauchope to showcase these offerings.

Love Letters Port Macquarie focuses on creating those beautiful, giant illuminated “LOVE” letters you see at weddings or parties. It’s a way to add a personal touch to events, and we’ve recently expanded to offer new services, like an audio guestbook setup where people can leave messages.

It’s a way to add a personal touch to events, and we’ve recently expanded to offer new services, like an audio guestbook setup where people can leave messages.

Little Whispers Picnics and Teepees is exactly that, creating the most bespoke pop up picnics for baby showers and birthdays to the flip side of kids teepee parties. Why was it an important measure for you to initially start your own business, and how has each subsequent business been born from the first?

Starting my own business was about two things: my love for creativity and my need for flexibility. I have four children, and after working in a corporate setting, I realised I wanted to spend more time with them but I

didn’t want to give up my career ambitions either. Baking was something I’ve always loved, and when I started getting requests from friends for cakes and other treats, I thought, “Why not turn this into something bigger?”

Once Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food started to take off, I saw gaps in the event industry. People didn’t want to spend hours coordinating different vendors. That’s how the idea of being a one-stop shop came about. My other businesses, Letz Get Lit 2444, Love Letters Port Macquarie, and Little Whispersgrew organically from there. Customers would ask if I could help with letter or number lights, backdrops, wedding and ceremony decorations, candy carts, picnics, and it made sense to offer those services all under one umbrella.

Continued over...

How do you juggle the many commitments of home life as a busy mum and the demands of owning and running multiple businesses?

It’s definitely a challenge, but I’m lucky to have an incredible support system. Nathan is my number one supporter, my best friend and he along with my Dad and brother handle the majority of the light set ups. My Mumma, my sister Amy, of Wonder Woman Domestic Cleaning, and my niece Cady of Cady Louise Visuals and Cady Louise Socials are also a huge help. They come in during big jobs, from our social media content creation to picnic and teepee set ups, or helping with the kids - they always have my back.

I also rely heavily on organisation. I have a system in place for everything from bookings and invoicing to event setups. Lists are my best friend, and I make sure to carve out time for family. Sundays are strictly family days, no matter what. It’s all about finding balance, which isn’t always easy, but I’m learning to manage it better every year.

Madison, you have won multiple business awards for your brands over the years at the annual regional Port Macquarie Business Awards for Excellence in Micro Business and more recently a finalist at state level for Business Of The Year. This is indeed an outstanding achievement. What does this success mean to you?

It’s incredibly humbling. I was also awarded 1st place Excellence in Accommodation & Hospitality and 2nd place in both Outstanding Young Business Leader and Excellence in Creative Industries at the recent 2024 Wauchope Business Awards. When I first started, I never imagined I’d be here winning awards and being recognised at such a high level. It’s a testament to hard work, perseverance, and, most importantly, community support. The most rewarding part is that these awards reflect my commitment to my clients. Every cake, every setup, and every event is crafted with love and attention to detail, and it’s amazing to have that recognised.

Sundays are strictly family days, no matter what. It’s all about finding balance, which isn’t always easy, but I’m learning to manage it better every year.

Yes! Opening a retail shop front was a huge milestone for us. What sets us apart is the fact that we offer a one-stop shop. Clients don’t have to go to multiple vendors for their event needs. We provide cakes, party food, marquee letter lights, decorations, and personalised props, all from one place.

It also feels like validation for all the sacrifices my family and I have made along the way. Running multiple businesses isn’t easy, and there are late nights and early mornings, but moments like these make it all worth it.

This year you have added a retail shop front to house all of your offerings with Letz Get Lit, now open in Wauchope. How do you ensure your brands stand out from the competition?

Another thing that makes us unique is our focus on innovation. We’re constantly introducing new products, from memory phone guest books to fondue carts and inflatable party rooms. We listen to customer feedback and stay on top of trends to ensure we’re offering something fresh and different.

But, most importantly, it’s our customer service. We genuinely care about making every event special. We build relationships with our clients, and that’s something money can’t buy.

We are coming into party season as the end of another big year draws to a close. What is on the horizon for you?

It’s going to be an exciting time! We have a lot

of bookings for school formals, Christmas parties, and weddings!

It’s a prestigious award and being recognised at not only the local level but to then go on and win it again at the regional level as well, was an incredible achievement and one I’m by far the proudest of.

This season, I focused on expanding our pop-up picnic setups, which have been really popular. They’re perfect for outdoor events, and we’ve added new elements like lolly dispensary walls, personalised chocolate bars, an actual phone booth for our audio phone, and new neons to go on our personalised backdrops, all to stand out and make each event that little bit more special. I’ve recently even added balloon garlands to a few of my setups, as this seems to be something that we’re always asked for, and usually we send clients elsewhere. We can’t be a one-stop shop if we don’t offer everything though, right? What can customers expect when engaging your services?

Customers can expect creativity, attention to detail, and a personal touch. We treat every event like it’s our own, and we genuinely care about making sure everything is perfect. Whether it’s a small birthday party or a large wedding, we put the same level of effort and dedication into

each event.

We also pride ourselves on being flexible and accommodating. If clients have a specific vision, we work with them to bring it to life. We offer custom solutions and make sure the process is as stress-free as possible for them.

Can you tell us about some professional highlights you have had throughout your career to date?

There have been so many, but a few moments really stand out.

Three of my businesses won in the Wedding Industry Awards 2024 for: 1st Place Wedding Cake Designer of the year & Wedding Services 1st & 2nd place - this was huge.

Then in the AusMumPreneur awards I got 3rd place for both Food & Beverage Services and Creative Entrepreneur of the year, I am still in shock!

Another highlight was winning Excellence in Micro Business. It’s a prestigious award and being recognised at not only the local level, but to then

go on and win it again at the regional level as well, was an incredible achievement and one I'm by far the proudest of.

And of course, opening our retail shop front in Wauchope this year is a major milestone. It’s been a dream for a while, and seeing it come to life is one of the proudest moments of my career.

For people wanting to engage with your businesses or book your products and services for an upcoming event, how can they best connect?

We love connecting with customers and are always thrilled to discuss how we can make their events extraordinary. Feel free to reach out; we’re excited to help bring your vision to life!

Any Occasion Cakes & Party Food Letz Get Lit 2444

Little Whispers Picnics & Teepees

Love Letters PMQ

Phone: 0458728857

In store: 2/185 High street Wauchope

PSSSST - Watch this space our websites about to launch!!!

www.LetzGetLit2444.com

Thanks Madison.

Interview: Sarah Baker.

HMaria Doherty is the General Manager of Koala Conservation Australia, who are tirelessly fighting to save our endangered koala population.

GENERAL MANAGER

DOHERTY aria

legend called Jean Starr. She saw the need

i Maria. Koala

Conservation Australia (KCA) is renowned for its pioneering work with koalas, can you tell us more about how the organisation started and the mission behind it?

KCA consists of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and now, a new breeding facility and visitor centre at Guulabaa. We are well known for our koala conservation work in the local

region and New South Wales, and known worldwide for our work in saving koalas during the bushfires of 2019 and 2020. Our vision is for thriving, healthy koala populations and we are striving to be leaders in koala care and conservation.

The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital has been a central part of your work for decades, how has its role evolved since it was first established in 1973?

Our hospital is the heart of our organisation

to care for sick koalas in Port Macquarie and established Australia’s first ever Koala Hospital. We have been treating and rehabilitating sick and injured koalas ever since and have built up a strong reputation and expertise in koala care.

Your new Wild Koala Breeding Programe at Guulabaa is seen as a potential game changer, can you explain how this program works and its significance for koala conservation?

It's hard to believe but koalas are predicted to be extinct by 2050. Our most beloved

Our tree living, gum-leaf loving koalas have also specialised in a very narrow diet and this does not make for good climate change resistance either. The situation we are facing is pre y dire.

and iconic marsupial is currently classified as an endangered species in NSW, QLD and the ACT. The fires we experienced really decimated already decreasing populations and they are just not recovering as the threats of habitat loss and the dangers imposed by humans from motor vehicles and dog attacks result in rapidly declining numbers and disease. Our tree living, gumleaf loving koalas have also specialised in a very narrow diet and this does not make for good climate change resistance either. The situation we are facing is pretty dire. Following the bushfires we received an outpouring of love and generosity from around the world as they saw us fighting to save our beloved koalas. We received around $7.5 million dollars following a passionate plea for help. All of those public funds (and some more!) have been channelled into building a new state of the art facility that will house what we hope will be a game changer for our local koalas. In partnership with Taronga Conservation Society we have developed a Wild Koala Breeding Program,

which will breed wild koalas to produce healthy, disease-free, genetically strong joeys that will be released back to the wild to either supplement or populate suitable koala habitat in our local region. This ‘wild to wild’ conservation tool is aimed at saving the koala and we, KCA, will be writing the guidelines for other organisations to follow suit. Out of the ashes has come this amazing hope and we are so lucky to be able to facilitate one of the tools that can be used to save the species.

KCA’s work extends beyond rescue and rehabilitation. How do your habitat restoration programs, including koala food tree plantations, contribute to longterm koala conservation?

KCA operates two koala food tree plantations – one at Maria River and one at Moripo. These plantations supply much of our food for koalas in our care. We are keen advocates for planting koala food trees and restoring koala habitat, giving away thousands of eucalypts each year for local plantings. We have a series of habitat restoration

programs targeting koala habitat or koala corridors (areas connecting adjacent koala habitats) on privately owned land. We help local landowners, working through a Koala Recovery Partnership with state government, to restore their land through weeding, fencing or planting trees. We work closely with National Parks, local land services, local councils and of course other volunteer organisations like Landcare contributing to identifying, restoring and conserving koala habitat where we can.

Continued over...

Collaboration seems to be a big part of your approach, working with research institutions like the Taronga Conservation Society and the University of Sydney. How have these partnerships enhanced your efforts?

Collaboration is central to our work here at KCA. There is so much we don’t know about koalas! We work hard to educate and openly share with others, hosting and teaching Sydney Uni veterinary students and other volunteer wildlife carers on a regular basis. We are trying to facilitate more research and

scientific collaboration and forming many university partnerships to encourage further studies.

Taronga are experts in animal conservation programs, we are

Our immediate plans are coming to fruition on December 10 when we open our doors to our new visitor centre at Guulabaa and start our wild to wild breeding programe.

experts in koalas. It is a worthy collaboration to join forces and create the first of its kind program; wild to wild koala breeding conservation program. We must all work together if we want to have any chance at saving this most beloved of our Australian species.

With koalas now classified as ‘endangered’, what are some of the biggest challenges facing their survival in the wild today?

Loss of habitat and disease are the two biggest threats to our koalas. Chlamydia is rife in our local populations and is exacerbated by the stress of living close to humans and losing large portions of their home ranges. This bacterial disease is highly infectious and is passed on to one another during breeding and birth. It causes horrible eye infections and if left untreated can lead to blindness. It impacts their urogenital system and causes brownish wet stains around their rump (wet bottom). We ask if anyone causes brownish wet stains around their

spots a koala looking ill or with swollen red eyes or a wet bottom to call us immediately as treatment is required.

Koala Conservation Australia relies heavily on the support of volunteers, what role do they play in your work, and how can others get involved in supporting your mission?

Our volunteers are amazing people! We have over 200 volunteers who help in various ways to support us. They work in koala care, serve customers in our gift shop, plant trees at our plantation, assist with maintenance, guide our visitors and tourists, help in business operations and the office. Week in, week out they help us run our not for profit organisation and they do it for the love of koalas and to make a difference. We couldn’t do our work without them.

With our new facility and visitor centre opening in December, there are opportunities for more volunteers to join us. Hop online and fill in the volunteer form. We welcome everyone. You just need to be committed and understand that we take our responsibilities seriously. Having said that, we have a lot of fun and laughter together and there is a lot of cake!

The support from around the world following the Black Summer Bushfires was overwhelming. How has this generosity impacted KCA’s ability to expand its programs and how important are ongoing donations to the running of KCA?

We were so lucky and humbled to benefit from such overwhelming generosity and support. Every single penny has gone into creating Guulabaa and creating a fighting chance for koala survival. Ongoing donations and community support keeps us going, helping us help koalas. Our local community is incredibly supportive; informed and have a strong sense of stewardship about ‘our’ koalas. We benefit from them bringing their families or overseas relatives to visit us and spreading the word about the current plight of koalas. We receive so much help through local businesses too, and donations regularly come from schools and kids and other organisations. We are so very grateful for everything we receive. We scrimp and save where we can but we are generous with all our interested visitors and of course, our koalas!

What plans or goals do you have for the future of KCA?

We have so many plans and goals for the future! We want to save koalas. We want to extend our veterinary services to all wildlife. We want to promote and facilitate koala research. We want to rebuild our (slightly rundown) Koala Hospital. We want to restore more koala habitat. We want to form more environmental partnerships and collaborations. We want to educate the world about koalas and the importance of wildlife and nature. We want to plant more trees! We want to form alliances with other wildlife groups. We want everyone to love koalas as much as we do!

However, (pause for a breath!) our immediate plans are coming to fruition on December 10th when we open our doors to our new visitor centre at Guulabaa and start our wild to wild breeding programe and show the world what can be accomplished by the generosity and kindness of the community. Koala Conservation Australia is a small, but mighty, volunteer organisation and we are bursting with pride at what we have done. Come along and join us as we celebrate this game changer for koalas. And yes - there will be cake!

Thanks Maria.

www.hellokoalas.com

Phone

Email info@hellokoalas.com

Ocean Port Macquarie

The people of Port Macquarie have been pushing for an ocean pool for many years, and the new Port Macquarie Ocean Pool offers a free, inclusive space for all. We spoke to Paul Adams to get all the info on this exciting new development.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the Port Macquarie Ocean Pool project and its importance to the local community?

The idea for a Port Macquarie ocean pool goes back many years (some might remember a proposal for Flynn’s Beach in the early 1990’s). It’s no surprise that this has been driven by locals coming from seaside communities that were fortunate to have an ocean pool. The community wants an ocean pool – it’s just a question of how and when. The committee was fortunate to receive federal funding in 2021 through Pat Conaghan to allow us to commence feasibility studies and in addition we received some funding from the state government via Leslie Williams, for which we are grateful.

Existing ocean pools in other parts of NSW are among the most loved and cherished community facilities. We not only have the opportunity to provide those same community benefits to Port Macquarie, but we also have the opportunity to improve on the design and functionality of the pool to make it more accessible, easier to maintain and to minimise environmental impacts.

What makes Oxley Beach the ideal location for the ocean pool, and how was the

decision made to select this site?

The decision to place the concept at Oxley Beach was taken after an exhaustive analysis of 10 sites from Town Beach right through to Lighthouse Beach. The committee and its team of consultants and experts considered a whole range of factors including community impact criteria such as, the usage of existing beaches for swimming and surfing, the nature of residential areas, the ease of construction, the wishes of the traditional Indigenous owners and of course traffic and parking. Other factors considered were accessibility constructability, ecological, impact on flora and fauna, user safety, planning constraints, construction cost, and geotechnical aspects. Each of the proposed 10 sites was carefully evaluated and once all factors were taken into account Oxley Beach north emerged as the best location for an ocean pool.

popular beaches and why they were not chosen as the preferred site for the pool.

An ocean pool at Town Beach would have accessibility, ecological and flooding constraints and would significantly impact established surfing and swimming spots. It also suffers from parking and traffic congestion during summer months.

Each of the proposed 10 sites was carefully evaluated and once all factors were taken into account Oxley Beach north emerged as the best location for an ocean pool.

Flynns Beach of course is a very popular location but is further from the CBD and less protected from swell than Oxley Beach and would have parking and access constraints. Flynns beach was also not favoured by the Traditional Owners.

An Ocean Pool at Shelly Beach would need to be located against the rock/landform at the end of the beach for coastal engineering purposes, meaning it would be a significant distance from carparking resulting in poor accessibility and being more expensive to build.

Occasionally we get inquiries asking about

Proximity to the CBD was considered a key factor and Lighthouse Beach is significantly further from the CBD than Oxley Beach. Accessibility was also a major constraint, and the pool would be prone to flooding and significant environmental

constraints due to the creek.

How has the involvement of the Birpai Traditional Owners Indigenous Corporation influenced the design and location of the pool?

It has been very rewarding to work with Jason as we’ve arrived at mutually suitable solutions on Native Title which have been ratified recently in the Federal Court.

We have collaborated extensively with the Birpai Traditional Owners Indigenous Corporation specifically Jason Holton over the last couple of years. It has been very rewarding to work with Jason as we've arrived at mutually suitable solutions on Native Title which have been ratified recently in the Federal Court. This is a pleasing result and protects the site from future interventions.

In addition, we recently consulted with Jason on the development of the pool logo and it was Jason’s neice, Tamarra, who developed the initial logo concept that we have recently released. Moving forward we will continue to engage with the Birpai Traditional Owners Indigenous Corporation on aspects of the pool design and we're looking for ways where we can incorporate Indigenous culture into the final aesthetics.

What economic benefits, including employment opportunities and tourism, do you foresee the pool bringing to Port Macquarie?

One of the feasibility studies (UNSW WRL June 2020 P6) estimated that the plausible economic

benefit would be $1.4 million per annum and the plausible health benefit of $2.6 million per annum making a total economic benefit of $4 million. Therefore the ocean pool will be quite an economic contributor to the Port Macquarie-Hastings LGA at a cost of $3 per person p.a.!

How do you see the ocean pool adding to the appeal of Port Macquarie as a vibrant and accessible destination?

We are fortunate to have a formidable array of recreational attractions, and when combined with the other attributes such as our medical infrastructure, the university and airport, the addition of an ocean pool will further enhance Port‘s reputation as a highly desirable place to live or visit.

Other localities see enormous value in their ocean pools which is why Newcastle just spent over $15 million completely refurbishing one of their pools.

What are the next steps for the project, and when can the community expect the pool to be ready for use?

Riley Smith, our Project Manager (Engenicom) leads our efforts to navigate progress through the complexities of gaining approvals from local and state agencies, for example the Department of the Environment, Biodiversity, Conservation, and Science Division, Crown Lands, Department

of Primary Industry, Fisheries and a myriad of other stakeholders who must be consulted and approve our plans. Remember that it’s been 50 years since the last ocean pool was built so there is no blueprint for us to follow. As each report is submitted, and hopefully approved, (no guarantee), all the work will become part of the planning proposal required for rezoning. Alongside this is the development application to the Port Macquarie Hastings Council.

At the same time the committee is working with the newly elected councillors to ensure that the ocean pool is included in the 2025 Recreation and Open Space Plan which is managed by Council’s Liveable Communities Group.

Another challenge is to convince council to allow an amount for maintenance in their 2025/26 operating plan. Accordingly, we are looking at ways to reduce the pools maintenance expenses via corporate philanthropy and generate an active and enthusiastic volunteer support group as they have done at other ocean pools.

How can the community help?

Visit our website at portmacquarieoceanpool. org.au and sign up to receive our newsletter or volunteer to help out a few hours a week with some maintenance. We would love to have 1,000 by the time the pool is built!

Thanks Paul.

Free, Safe and Accessible

Planning is well underway

Significant progress has been made over the last few years with all stakeholders, thanks to the involvement and grants facilitated by State and Federal Government funding.

Community benefits

• Access to the ocean for all, including families, older people, visitors, people with disabilities, schools and sporting clubs

• Health and wellness benefits for the community

• A boost for tourism and the local economy

• Safe ocean swimming

•Free use for all

•Employment during construction

• Construction to be funded by Federal and NSW governments.

Industry experts were engaged to assess 10 local sites on a range of criteria, including:

• Inclusive access for older adults and people with disabilities

•Protection from rough seas

• Environmental, heritage and social impacts

• Coastal engineering and ease of construction

• Low impact on residential areas near local surfing beaches

•Proximity to the CBD

• Proximity to existing amenities

Based on these criteria Oxley Beach was unanimously deemed to be the most sustainable and constructable site.

Location: Oxley Beach

For illustration purposes only, the design is indicative only

The Design

•10 x 50 metre swimming lanes

•Recreation area

•Children’s pool

• Walk in-walk-out wheelchair friendly access

• Male and female amenities

• Additional car parks along Pacific Drive

• Ramp access from Pacific drive

What’s next?

The committee is working through the lengthy approval process and our immediate priorities are to brief the new Councillors, become included in the Port Macquarie Recreation and Open Space 2025 Plan, as we work towards the Planning Proposal and Development Application.

URBAN FOLK PHOTOGRAPHY

Cassandra James started Urban Folk Photography a er returning home to Port Macquarie and starting her beautiful family. Her background as a wedding coordinator made wedding photography a perfect blend of her practical skills and creativity, and her stunning images and knack for capturing special, subtle moments has her in demand!

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you were introduced to photography?

I first got introduced to photography during high school, back in the days of film. I bought my first digital Nikon SLR and started exploring photography while studying advertising. At 20, I moved to the UK and began experimenting with portrait and travel photography. A few years later, when I was 23, I became a tour guide with Contiki in Asia, where photography remained a passionate hobby, alongside travel blogging.

After returning home from the fast-paced world of tour guiding, I was eager for a role that kept me just as busy, which led me to work as a wedding coordinator for a year down south. Around age 28, we decided to move back to Port Macquarie, where we helped open a local café, and shortly after, I became a mum. I absolutely loved being a stay-at-home mum, but once my daughter turned two, my creative spark reignited. I invested in a Sony A7iii and dived back into photography.

With guidance from local photographer Natalie O’Donald, late-night YouTube tutorials, and online courses, I started to refine my craft. Local businesses like The Calm Society gave me the opportunity to capture their brand imagery for social media, and soon, family portraits and lifestyle business shoots started

gaining traction. When elopements in the area picked up, everything came together. After COVID restrictions eased, my business evolved, and I found a way to combine my passion for both photography and event coordination into my dream career as a lifestyle wedding photographer.

What are the things you love most about this art form?

What I love most about photography is its ability to capture real, authentic moments in a way that feels timeless. There’s something so powerful about freezing a genuine emotion - whether it’s the joy on a bride’s face, the quiet moments during an elopement, or the connection between a family. Photography gives me the opportunity to tell stories visually, and I love that it’s a way to connect people to their memories.

My approach is all about providing personalised service, where I take the time to understand each client’s unique needs, goals, and circumstances.

on your toes - you’re constantly anticipating the next moment.

I also love the blend of creativity and technical skill that photography requires. From finding the perfect light to framing a shot that feels natural yet artistic, every element plays a part in crafting a beautiful image, and when you’re in an environment like a wedding or elopement, where so much is happening, it keeps you

What makes this art form especially fulfilling for me is how it brings together all my passions - photography, storytelling, and event coordination. Being able to work with couples and families, capturing their most important days, feels like such an honour, and every shoot is an opportunity to connect with people in a meaningful way. Continued over...

James asndra

How would you describe your style and what do you most commonly shoot?

I would describe my style as natural light lifestyle photography, where the focus is on capturing genuine, candid moments in a relaxed, organic way. I love working with natural light because it brings a softness and authenticity to the images, allowing the environment and emotions to shine through. Whether I’m shooting in the golden glow of sunset or the soft light of an overcast day, I always aim to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in my photos. Most commonly, I shoot weddings and family sessions. Weddings are such a beautiful blend of storytelling,

emotion, and connection, and I love being able to document a couple’s special day as it unfolds. Family sessions, on the other hand, allow me to capture those intimate, everyday moments that reflect the love and dynamics within a family. What is the best thing about being such a big part of a couple's wedding day?

The best part is the trust they place in me to capture one of the most important days of their lives. It’s an incredible honour to be there, not just as a photographer but as someone who

gets to witness and document all the intimate, emotional, and joyous moments that make up their story. I love being able to preserve those fleeting moments - the laughter, the tears, the subtle glances - and knowing that these images will become cherished memories for years to come.

Why did you decide to focus primarily on weddings?

I decided to focus primarily on weddings because they offer the perfect combination of storytelling, creativity, and emotion, which are the aspects of photography I’m most passionate about. Weddings are such significant, once-in-alifetime events, and being able to capture those moments as they naturally unfold is incredibly rewarding. I love that every wedding has its own unique story, filled with raw emotions, special connections, and beautiful details - it’s a privilege to be a part of that.

What have been some of your most memorable moments, photoshoots or photographs in your career so far? Surprise proposals are always so exciting. I was hired for a birthing shoot and the gender

was unknown until the baby arrived, it was so special to capture such joy between the parents. The photoshoots where clients let me be creative and are up for anything are the most fun such as a carnival engagement shoot or brides wanting to jump in the pool after the reception etc.

I can’t do without my 80mm prime lens, which is perfect for those intimate shots. I also love using my handheld crystal prism to create dreamy, artistic effects, especially for dance floor photos.

Talk us through your usual process. How do you prepare for a big shoot day; is there any equipment you can’t do without and do you do much in post production?

Here’s how I typically prepare for a big wedding shoot:

As someone who was a wedding coordinator before creating Urban Folk, I like to meet with my brides over coffee ahead of time. This allows me to assist with their timeline and ensure the day flows smoothly, covering all the moments that are important to them. It’s also a great way to get to know them better, which helps me capture their day in a more personal and authentic way.

As the wedding day approaches, I make sure

all my equipment is fully charged and ready to go, typically 48 hours out. I double-check all the key details like the timeline and the family photo list to make sure everything is in order. I also make sure to pack some sugary snacks to keep my energy up throughout the day!

On the day, I can’t do without my 80mm prime lens, which is perfect for those intimate shots. I also love using my handheld crystal prism to create dreamy, artistic effects, especially for dance floor photos.

After the shoot, a big part of my work is postproduction. I usually take thousands of photos on the day, so the first step is to cull them down to the best images. Then, I go through and colour correct before doing more detailed edits, tweaking blemishes and making sure the final

images really pop.

What would be your dream photoshoot?

My dream photo shoot would be one where the client is open-minded and fully trusts my creative process. I’d love to work with a couple who are excited about trying new ideas and lets me experiment with unique angles, light, and locations. When they’re willing to step outside the usual poses and embrace a more artistic approach, it allows me to capture authentic moments in a way that feels fresh and inspired. That kind of collaboration always leads to beautiful, one-of-a-kind photos. Where can we find out more or get in touch?

Website: urbanfolkphotography.com

Email: urbanfolkphotography.cj@gmail.com

Thanks Cassandra.

URBAN FOLK PHOTOGRAPHY

Christmas Port entr

As the festive season approaches, we sat down with Carissa Dwyer, the Marketing Manager at Port Central Shopping Centre, to hear all about the exciting events and promotions planned for November and December. With everything from magical Santa experiences to unbeatable Black Friday sales, Port Central is ready to make this Christmas season truly special.

Christmas is such a magical time of year, and we hear Santa will be making an appearance at Port Central!

Can you tell us more? Absolutely! We’re so excited to welcome back Professional Santa Photos to Port Central this year. Santa photos are such a beloved Christmas tradition, and we’ve officially opened professional bookings for families to capture those special moments. Plus, for pet lovers, Santa Paws also is returning, giving your furry friends a chance to join in the holiday fun! Professional Santa Photos will be available on select dates from Saturday, 30th November, through 23rd December 2024. Be sure to book early on our website at portcentral.com.au

That sounds amazing! Speaking of excitement, Black Friday is just around the corner. What can shoppers expect from Port Central this year? Get ready for two huge days of Black Friday deals on the 29th and 30th of November! Our retailers are setting up exclusive trade-out tables and racks throughout the centre, offering massive discounts on all kinds of products. It’s the perfect opportunity to get ahead on your Christmas shopping or score some fantastic deals for yourself.

Santa will be pretty busy at Port Central! Can you tell us about where and when

people can come to meet him in person? You can catch him in person at the FREE meet and greet at Gowings Port Central Christmas Cove just outside Target. He’ll be there on Saturday, 21st and Sunday, 22nd December, from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. Kids can share their Christmas wish lists, snap festive photos, and enjoy a joyful, heartwarming experience. It’s the perfect holiday event for families, friends, and anyone in the festive spirit—and best of all, it’s completely FREE!

We heard there’s something special happening for foodies with a local flair! Can you tell us more about the Real Food Christmas Market? Yes! On Tuesday, 24th December, from 9:00am to 1:00pm, we’re hosting the Real Food Christmas Market, which is all about supporting local farmers and showcasing the freshest produce. It’s perfect for those last minute Christmas feast preparations. There’s something special about shopping local and knowing that the food on your Christmas table has come from the community. It’s the best way to make your holiday meal extra delicious and meaningful. We’ve also heard that Kaleidoscope has some wonderful gift ideas for this Christmas. What can you share about that? Kaleidoscope is such a gem! This Christmas, they’re offering beautifully curated gift baskets filled with unique products from local artisans and suppliers which make them

the perfect gift for anyone on your list. They’re thoughtful, personal, and really celebrate the creativity of our local community. Whether you’re looking for something different or want to support local makers, Kaleidoscope’s gift baskets are the way to go.

No Christmas would be complete without writing a letter to Santa! How can the kids get involved with that this year? We’re making it easy for kids to send their Christmas wishes straight to Santa! We’ve set up a magical letterbox next to the Christmas Cove, just outside Target. Kids can drop their letters in before the 15th of December, and if they include their return address, they might even get a special reply from Santa himself! It’s such a sweet tradition and really adds to the magic of the season.

It sounds like Port Central is really embracing the Christmas spirit this year! We’re thrilled to be bringing so much festive fun to Port Central this Christmas, and we can’t wait to share it with the community. Whether you’re here for Santa photos, the Black Friday sales, or just enjoying the Christmas atmosphere, we’re here to make the season magical for everyone. We’re all about creating joyful memories, supporting local businesses, and giving back to the community. From all of us at Port Central, we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and we hope to see you in the centre soon!

A SPECTACULAR SHOWCASE OF STYLE AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT

What an incredible day at this year’s Port Macquarie Cup! The 2024 Gowings Port Central Fashions on the Field was truly one for the books - an event bursting with elegance, creativity, and undeniable style. Held at the Port Macquarie Race Club, this year's competition was a resounding success, thanks to the extraordinary participants who showcased the very best in race day fashion. We saw breathtaking outfits, remarkable millinery, and an overall celebration of fashion that left our judges, sponsors, and audience in awe. Congratulations to our talented winners and runners-up, who each brought their unique flair and sophistication to the stage:

- Best Dressed Lady: Belinda Smith

- Runner-Up: Lou Simpson

- Best Dressed Gentleman: Tim Farnsworth

- Runner-Up: Craig Smythe

- Best Millinery: Dee Worrell

- Runner-Up: Peta Alexopoulos

2024 FASHIONS ON THE FIELD

A special thank you to our esteemed judges, Bec Bays from BB Millinery and Alistair Flower from Flower Hotels, for your expert eye and dedication to ensuring the event ran smoothly. We were also delighted to have Vanessa Jane from The Style Vibe as our Fashion Ambassador and MC, whose passion for style and infectious energy kept the crowd engaged throughout the day.

Of course, an event of this calibre wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our incredible sponsors: Port Macquarie Race Club, FOCUS Magazine, MUSE Beauty, HEM Property, BB Millinery, Bird Rock Bar & Grill, Chemist Warehouse, Touchwood Florist, and Beach Life Crescent Head. Your backing helped make this event the success it was, and

we are truly grateful.

These events have a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the main stage boosting the local retail industry and extending benefits to other small businesses in the area.

But beyond the glitz and glamour of race day, events like Fashions on the Field play a crucial role in supporting our local community. At Gowings Port Central, we are committed to championing not just our retailers but also local businesses and jobs. These events have a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the main stage boosting the local retail industry and extending benefits to other small businesses in the area. The positive impact on Port Macquarie’s economy is undeniable.

We are already looking forward to being part of next year’s event and supporting the incredible talent and vibrant fashion culture of Port Macquarie!

FASHIONS ON THE FIELD

WINNER BELINDA SMITH

WINNER TIM FARNSWORTH

WINNER DEE WORRELL

RUNNER UP LOU SIMPSON

RUNNER UP CRAIG SMYTHE

RUNNER UP PETA ALEXOPOULOS

BEST DRE S SED LADY BEST DRE S SED GENT

MILLINERY

BEST DRE S SED LADY BEST DRE S SED GENT

MILLINERY

ST. THOMAS ANGLICAN CHURCH

200TH ANNIVERSARY

Hi Daniel, can you share a little about yourself and your role at St. Thomas?

My wife and I have been here for 2 years and came from North Brisbane. We have loved the slower regional life, the wonderful restaurants, the warmth of the community (at church, St. Columba Anglican School and wider community) and I’ve especially enjoyed the hills to run my Harley (motorbike) around. I am the Senior Minister at St. Thomas and my role is to encourage the spiritual lives of members to ask better questions about faith, to appreciate the unique individuals God has made them to be, and that even as complex and messy people, we learn how to be blessed, as we seek to bless others. We’ve enjoyed leading activities such as being a part of Artwalk, hosting community activities and encouraging various ministries for youth and families.

St. Thomas Anglican Church has reached an incredible milestone of 200 years. How does it feel to be part of this significant chapter in the church's history?

When I came to the church, I was immediately humbled by the reality that I am simply one

Reverend Daniel Berris, Senior Minister at St. Thomas Anglican Church, has been serving the Port Macquarie community for the past two years. As St. Thomas celebrates its 200th anniversary, Daniel reflects on the church’s profound history and its future role in nurturing both faith and community, and gives us an idea of what to expect from the church’s upcoming Open Day.

more minister over the last 200 years who has led at St. Thomas and there will be many more who will come after me. More than that, in 200 years there have been monumental historical moments in the lives of those who have been a part of this community such as the establishment of colonies, world wars, and the changing face of Australian culture. There have also been terrible tragedies with First Nations people, convicts and other negative impacts of the church. Yet rather than ignoring the negatives, it is important we embrace the whole history of St. Thomas and move forward in asking how we can do better as we speak to a new generation today. The church is one of the few remaining buildings from the convict period in New South Wales, built by convict labour. Can you tell us some of what you know about its beginning and significance to the

community?

St Thomas Church

continued to be used then for the wider community which historic records say could cater for everyone who lived in Port Macquarie at the time to a end Sunday worship.

It was built by convict labour under the eye of Lieutenant G.R. Carmac over the period of just over 2 years comprising of approx. some 350,000 bricks. At the time, Governor Macquarie felt it more important that a church was built even before a prison (though it was most likely not envisaged that it was to last 200 years). When they closed the penal settlement in Port Macquarie, many convicts were sent on to other places (depending on the severity of their crimes) while some remained here. St Thomas Church continued to be used then for the wider community which historic records say could cater for everyone who lived in Port Macquarie at the time to attend Sunday worship. The church has served in many ways over the years, one main way in the early years was as the community school.

Continued over...

As part of NSW Heritage Month, the church is hosting an open day, offering tours of the church and tower, access to the 1822 cellar, and more. What can visitors expect to experience during this special event?

People will hear many incredible stories, see museum quality historical items from early days, and experience the spaces (such as our cellars and tower) which have been occupied by countless people for over 200 years.

The Port Macquarie & Districts Family History Group will be sharing the

stories of female convicts who came to Port Macquarie. Why do you think it’s important for the community to learn about this aspect of local history?

Our past is a reflection of our future. The circumstances that the convicts faced has allowed us to learn from their stories of resilience and extraordinary personalities that speak into the kind of community we are today.

St. Thomas has accumulated an extraordinary collection of ecclesiastical items and artefacts over the years. What are some of the most unique or meaningful pieces in the collection that visitors will be able to see?

As part of NSW Heritage Month, the church is hosting an open day offering tours of the church and tower, access to the 1822 cellar and an extraordinary collection of ecclesiastical items

There is the organ (which before electricity required someone to pump air through it to create the sound); the memorials on the walls; the pulpit (moved to various places depending on the quality of the minister’s voice to project sound); our unique pews enclosed to create boxed seating; the story of the grave in the church and old musical instruments (seraphine & clarinet). These are all items which have a story to go along with their use. Restoration work on the church tower is underway to repair deteriorating brickwork. How important is this project for preserving the church’s legacy, and what are some of the challenges in maintaining such an historic structure?

Unfortunately maintaining heritage buildings always comes at a cost, though it is important to invest in this for a few reasons. This building reminds us of where we have come from and to think about where we are headed. The reasons so many continue to invest is that this “Church on the Hill’ has been a place of ongoing activity. People can learn about the nature of God, how to serve God in our world and how to do this as a community. This has also been a significant place where history

We hope people who have been connected to St. Thomas, and blessed by its presence, will be inspired in what we’re doing as a community.

is created as people continue to use the buildings and our site. This means we must keep inviting people to contribute in ways that maintain its presence through financial giving (donations, philanthropic gifts, and bequests) and support its many activities.

The church is inviting people to join the heritage team, either as tour guides or researchers. How important is community involvement in preserving the history and future of St. Thomas?

St.Thomas represents a significant perspective of this town’s history and to be part of the heritage team means you get to communicate how we maintain the past, celebrate the present and look forward to the future. St. Thomas whole site is so much more than a group of buildings, which is why we maintain its primary purpose for worship and gathering people as a community. Becoming a tour guide invites you to be a part of a great team that communicates the many stories that would otherwise get lost in time. Being part of our research and archiving team, also invites you to find out the facts, as opposed to the stories (although the stories are usually more fun and provide lots of laughs).

As the church enters its third century, what are your hopes for its future, both in terms of its physical preservation and its role within the Port Macquarie community?

We hope people who have been connected to St. Thomas and blessed by its presence will be inspired in what we’re doing as a community. This is a site worth preserving and we believe this next century will see our community continue to have an even greater impact upon the history of Port Macquarie and we look forward to doing this alongside the people of Port Macquarie.

Thank you Rev Dan.

Kim McLean has a vibrant and eclectic style that makes her artwork stand out and is totally unique to her. Kim is constantly creating and sharing her skills with others through workshops and classes, as well as regular exhibitions.

Kim McLean

ARTIST of the MONTH

Hi Kim. Can you tell us about your artistic journey and how you became involved in the art world?

I’ve always been interested in creativity and curious about any new forms of expression I come across. When I was younger I painted t-shirts and tried out a lot of different crafts. I started in visual arts with drawing classes and charcoal was my favourite drawing medium. For me, drawing was a simple way to meditate and calm my mind. I’m drawn to colour so I moved on to using pastels but found that it irritated my hands, so I dabbled a bit with watercolour and after an intense workshop I fell in love with the medium. Now, I constantly

experiment with watercolours. It has become a bit of an obsession to see how many different ways I can use it. I completed a Diploma of Graphic Design and a Bachelor of Fine Art online while my family was growing up. I also studied creativity and its effects on the brain and found the research fascinating. I believe that creativity keeps your brain active, helps you grow new brain cells and gives you an increased sense of calm and wellbeing. I love to see people interested in creativity and I have taught small group classes and many private mentoring lessons which are always lots of fun. I entered a competition on a whim and ended up painting the Bonny Hills Mural at Rainbow Beach. This led to more mural work around town and I really enjoyed the challenge of painting large. Some of the murals are the Comboyne mural and Scout Hall mural which is probably the largest one I have completed.

experiment with watercolours. It has become a

I love to see people interested in creativity and I have taught small group classes and many private mentoring lessons which are always lots of fun.

I’ve done some commission work and I’m constantly working on my own projects all the time because I feel the creative itch if I stop for too long. I have also collaborated with other artists and I exhibit and sell paintings regularly at the Hastings Valley Fine Art Gallery and at other galleries when I have the opportunity.

Continued over...

ARTIST of the MONTH

How would you describe your artistic style, and how has it evolved over the years?

My artistic style is quite eclectic. I paint my surroundings and some paintings are quite traditional and realistic, while others are completely abstract and come from my imagination. I also work in an illustrative way to tell stories. Changing the way I’m painting all the time helps me stay fresh and I love play and experimentation. Most of what I paint is visual storytelling with a bit of quirkiness and humour. I do a lot of figurative work but occasionally have time to paint other subjects that attract me and do a little bit of sculpture. Where do you often draw your inspiration from?

I’m inspired by the human experience, I find people endlessly interesting because of the movement, connection and energy surrounding them. I love to paint people that I know, or tell

the story of scenes that I see when walking at the beach or somewhere outside. I read all the time so sometimes I will stumble on something that inspires an idea or a thought that I want to research further. I’m also inspired by the vibe of earlier eras.

I also work in an illustrative way to tell stories. Changing the way I’m painting all the time helps me stay fresh and I love play and experimentation.

Port Macquarie is known for its vibrant arts scene. How has living here influenced your creativity?

I grew up in Port Macquarie and there has always been plenty of art and craft classes to stimulate my imagination. The best thing about being creative is that you never finish learning new things and improving, so it’s never boring. I’m grateful to meet new artists and teaching a class influences my creativity in a positive way. -There are also a lot of local artist groups and creative people of all ages to mix with and over the years I have made some great friends for brainstorming and collaborating with. There is always something creative happening. I love to find and browse little shops, markets and galleries that support local artisans work. There is a great deal of support for the arts in this area and knowing that keeps me actively creative. I’ve been lucky and I’m so grateful to have the support of my family and friends and

local business people while I create new material.

Can you walk us through your creative process, from concept to finished piece?

I take lots of photos all the time wherever I am to refer back to for inspiration and I will take my time reviewing sketches and photos to find connection and meaning.

My creative process usually begins with a lot of gathering or collecting of information, sketches, photographs or research. Sometimes I just gather my paints and get straight into it just for the freedom and if I am sketching I will make quite a few. I take lots of photos all the time wherever I am to refer back to for inspiration and I will take my time reviewing sketches and photos to find connection and meaning. Three hours in the studio can feel like 30 minutes and I don’t always accomplish much at first which can be frustrating. I like to sketch a lot of ideas from the photos as well. Sometimes I set up a still life and paint directly from that or do small painting sketches when I am out in nature. When the ideas start to form they can come in a rush and I feel like I need to work on them all straight away, so they get drawn up or roughly painted straight on to the support. The beach bums I paint come from my photos and sketches and the stories I imagine. The painting is mostly intuitive. I put on some music, get

into the zone and work on getting the idea/image that is in my head onto the canvas or paper and I just keep working on it until I feel happy with how it looks. Abstract works are more relaxing beginning with random mark making. They are more a feeling that I’m trying to visualise, so there is a lot of stopping and thinking along the way. When a painting is close to being finished I find it hard to stop until it is done.

Do you have a favourite medium or subject that you enjoy working with most?

Watercolour is my favourite medium at the moment. I love how it flows and how the colours mix and the many different ways to use it. I’m also enjoying experimenting with timber sculpture. My favourite subjects are the human form and the beach/nature and I like to explore the themes of movement, connection, memory, emotion and nature in my work. The beach bums I paint are supposed to be humorous and I always have a laugh while I paint them so they are also good therapy for me. I hope that overall my work shows the capacity we have for joy and beauty.

Are there any recent or upcoming projects or exhibitions you’re excited about that

you can share with us?

Since November last year I’ve been participating in the Work of Art program which is a business development program for regional women in creative industries funded by Women NSW and the Regional Arts NSW Fund. The program creates new possibilities for creativity outside of major metropolitan areas. It finishes soon and I’m excited about the showcase and exhibition that’s coming up in November in Orange. It will be the longest distance I have travelled for an exhibition. I’ve just completed the paintings for my Beach Bum Calendar so that will be available for purchase very soon with lots of joy and happiness inside. I’m also starting to take names for art classes and one to one mentoring classes for next year. I find it exciting to see how much people improve with a little guidance and a few tips. I have just started a new project based on my abstract works and there is a collaboration planned with another creative.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

If you are interested in a class or visiting the studio you can contact me by email kimmclean16@gmail.com or message me on Instagram or facebook at kimmcleanart Thanks Kim.

Discover ROWING THE JOY OF

Ever considered rowing? Interested in improving your fitness, health and well-being? Ever wondered what the graceful sensation of rowing would be like?

Perhaps you feel inspired by the recent Olympics and would like to give a different sport or recreational activity a go. If you enjoy waterbased activities, then rowing is a fantastic way to start your day!

Picture this…. a beautiful glassy Hastings River with the sun rising while you are out working up a sweat with a great bunch of new found friends, then relaxing with a cup of coffee. If you are too busy for an early morning row, then rowing later in the morning is also an option.

Port Macquarie Rowing Club will be running a Learn to Row program this month commencing

on Sunday 17 November at our Hibbard Drive boatshed. This is your opportunity to try rowing under the supervision of experienced coaches and connect with likeminded people from a yet untapped social network.

Rowing is unique in its ability to deliver a low impact, total body workout, leaving you high on endorphins and feeling good. The combination of being in a beautiful outdoor environment while learning to row recreationally is ideal for both young and older recruits. We organise our Learn to Row groups into age approximate crews and those with similar goals to ensure you have the best experience.

The course of six lessons over 3 weeks does not entail strenuous exercise but focuses on your crew developing rowing skills together in fun and relaxed sessions of approximately sixty minutes of instruction and practice. Because it is an on-water activity the only requirement is that participants must be able to swim.

Places are limited so please contact David or Linda for more information and to register your interest. Interested, but the date for this program doesn’t suit you? Contact us to arrange a visit to our boatshed and a hands-on introduction to the sport one Saturday morning.

BOOK Review

NOVEMBER

We Are the Stars

By Gina Chick

RRP: $36.99

For those who don’t know who Gina Chick is, you’re in for quite a ride. Winner of the first Alone Australia, Gina’s life has been anything but ordinary. “I’m a storm in a skin” is how she describes herself. From a wildly unconventional childhood on the South Coast to a rising star, her story will take you on a journey through her life which is full of love, sadness, and most of all, recovery. This is a unique book,

Dusk

By Robbie Arnott

RRP: $34.99

From the acclaimed author of Limberlost comes a sublime story set in colonial Australia about twin sister and brother, Iris and Floyd, and their desperate attempt to escape the poverty and lawlessness that has defined their family ever since their parents were pushed off the First Fleet. The opportunity for a better life comes in the form of a massive bounty placed on the head of a giant puma stalking the highlands of Tasmania, systemically picking off shepherds and slaughtering their flocks, scaring off labourers

telling a story of one wild child whose life experience is nothing short of remarkable.

and loggers and driving farmers to ruin. Iris and Floyd saddle up and join the hunt, but as their journey begins, they discover things about the highlands that changes everything that they thought they knew about this brutal fledgling society.

FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON EITHER OF THESE BOOKS, BRING THIS AD INTO OUR STORE at 64 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, or phone order on 5590 0797.

Coastal WALK THE

AGAINST DOMESTIC & FAMILY VIOLENCE

Liberty Domestic & Family Violence Specialist Services are again inviting you to join them in the Coastal Walk on November 24. This year they will be joined by special guest speaker, Dave Kramer who established the Small Steps for Hannah Charity after the tragic loss of his best friend Hannah Clarke and her children in 2020.

The Coastal Walk Against Domestic & Family Violence is back on Sunday 24 November. We spoke to Kelly Lamb, Liberty CEO, about the exciting new format?

This year the walk starts at Westport Park. Walkers will meet at Westport Park from 8.30am for a community event and then we’ll set off together at 9.30am.

You can fuel up before the walk with a bbq breakfast and coffee and grab your Coastal Walk gear at our merch tent. We’ll also have music, entertainment and guest speakers.

This year walkers will head east towards the beaches and choose their finish line. It’s an easy 30 mins to Town Beach,1 hour to Flynns Beach, or for those up for the challenge, around 2 hours to the official finish line at Lighthouse Beach.

You have a special guest speaker before the walk starts this year?

We’re very privileged to be joined by Dave Kramer, who established the Small Steps for Hannah Charity after the tragic loss of his best friend, Hannah Clarke, and her children in 2020.

Dave will share his heartfelt story and the need for personal accountability and collective community action in order to prevent violence against women and children.

As well as raising awareness, the event raises much-needed funds for local women and children. How can people help?

When you register for the walk, you’ll be invited to make a donation directly or fundraise by calling on your family and friends to support your participation.

We provide crisis accommodation, housing support, after-hours responses, support groups, prevention programs, community education and training for workplaces..

Every dollar raised stays right here in our community, benefitting local families.

$50 raised can provide a warm meal for a woman and her children. $200 provides a hotel room when a woman leaves a violent situation in the middle of the night. $1000 covers a week’s rent in short-term accommodation while a family gets back on their feet.

Can you tell us more about Liberty and your work in the community?

Liberty has been helping local families experiencing domestic and family violence for 44 years.

Last financial year, Liberty worked with 2,230 people across prevention, intervention, response and recovery initiatives, leading to improved safety for women and children in our local community.

We provide crisis accommodation, housing support, afterhours responses, support groups, prevention programs, community education and training for workplaces. Find out more at libertyservices. org.au

What makes this event so popular?

The event continues to grow every year, and sadly, so do the number of women reporting their experience of domestic violence.

Last year more than 600 people took part in the Coastal Walk. Some have been affected by violence and abuse, either personally or through a family member or friend. Others enjoy the opportunity to walk with friends along our iconic coastline. No matter their reason, everyone is united in their desire to say ‘no’ to domestic violence.

Where can people register and find out more?

To register for the walk, nominate a free Busways shuttle bus service, buy merch and contribute to our fundraising efforts, head to libertycoastalwalk.org.au

And don’t forget to follow Liberty on Facebook for all the latest updates.

AvaBasanovic

Ava Basanovic runs a small boutique riding school/agistment facility here in Port Macquarie with her Mum Jodie. She recently travelled to Sydney to compete at Equimillion, a competition that showcases the versatility of the thoroughbred (for retired race horses), and Ava came away with 1st place!

Congratulations on your incredible win at Equimillion! How did it feel to take home 1st place and such a significant prize?

Firstly thank you so much. I’m honestly still pinching myself. My goal going out there was to place in the top 5, but coming away with 1st place just made the whole experience so much more worth the effort and dedication I’ve put into it .

Can you tell us about the horse you competed with at Equimillion? What’s his story, and how did you prepare for the competition together?

“Kristensen“ aka Dexter we purchased many years ago. We have taken things slowly with this horse and have been very calculated with his training process. Now as a 10yr old, he’s a very well established “Event“ horse. We have taken him from an ‘off

the track thoroughbred’ (OTT TB) with no event experience to now being an extremely confident, competitive EVA95 horse and will start his career moving forward to compete 1*.

At just 16, you’ve already dedicated so much of your life to horses. What inspired your passion for riding and working with thoroughbreds?

I have been riding since I could walk, starting with a tiny little shetland, then moving onto bigger ponies competing at pony club and various events throughout my childhood. I spent loads and loads of time riding at home, then moving off the typical pony club mounts, I moved on to Dexter and he sparked my passion for thoroughbreds. They are just something else, their work ethic and their willingness to please and try their very best every ride, no matter what we’re doing. You and your mother run a boutique riding school and agistment facility.

What is it like working together on the property?

Yes we're a mother and daughter run business! HaHa - we have our days, but for the most part we spend the majority of the day working very closely together to ensure we give our very best to our clients and client horses. My goal is to take over the business and run the farm which will allow me to pursue my dreams of becoming a high level competitor.

Retraining retired racehorses can be a challenging process. What’s your approach to retraining, and what’s the most rewarding part of seeing these horses transition to new homes?

Retraining retired racehorses is a passion of mine. I love the process, even the ugly parts, because it’s not always glamorous. The best part is seeing the horses unfold into well rounded, sound, calm, relaxed beings. Each horse is an individual and we treat them individually. Once we make the decision they are ready to move to their new homes, we do our absolute best to find each individual horse the perfect home that suits their capabilities. How do you select which ex-racehorses to take on for retraining? Is there a particular quality or potential you look for in each horse?

Yes we are pretty meticulous with the

OTT that we take on. We have a few blood lines that we stick to, we always take into consideration where and which trainers they’ve come from and lastly the horses must be, on first inspection, sound, not only physically but they must have a sound mind too.

How does winning a significant prize like this impact your riding school and the work you do with ex-racehorses?

A significant prize like this will go a long way for us. We haven’t decided exactly what we’ll use the money for yet, but I know I will be buying myself a new saddle, something I’ve never had the luxury of doing, so I’m feeling really excited about that. What are your future goals, or upcoming competitions or projects you’re excited about?

Once we make the decision they are ready to move to their new homes, we do our absolute best to find each individual horse the perfect home that suits their capabilities.

We are working towards expanding the business a little more and hopefully will be heading to “Magic Million” in early Jan 2025. We have a few upgrades to make on the farm, so there’s never a dull moment. We are looking forward to a little break over Christmas and we’ll be back at it in 2025 over numerous events throughout the year, Equimillion 2025 being one of those.

Thanks Ava.

Our space has been created to share with you, yes YOU! With a fun team and a 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.

Welcome to Drift Bar Cafe Restaurant, where culinary delights meet a cosy atmosphere! Whether you’re craving our classic offerings, chef specials or exploring our diverse vegetarian options, we have something to tantalise every palate. Bring the whole family along - our kids' meals, complete with an exciting activity pack and a delicious ice

cream cup, are just $12, making them perfect for a fun and affordable school holiday treat. And that's not all! Our much anticipated spring menu is on the horizon, promising fresh, seasonal flavours that will delight your senses. Stay tuned and keep an eye on our socials for updates. Come drift with us and experience casual dining at its best!

BAR CAFE RESTAURANT

DISCOVER a culinary journey that celebrates the best of local produce, set within a stylish, welcoming atmosphere that promises memorable moments with every visit.

Nestled in the heart of Port Macquarie. Birdrock blends sophisticated dining with the vibrant flavours of modern Australian cuisine. Our commitment to excellence shines through our selection of prime steaks, handcrafted cocktails, and unmatched service.

Nestled in the heart of Port Macquarie. Birdrock blends sophisticated dining with the vibrant flavours of modern Australian cuisine. Our commitment to excellence shines through our selection of prime steaks, handcrafted cocktails, and unmatched service.

Bar open from 3pm with dinner service from 5:30pm daily.

Bar open from 3pm with dinner service from 5:30pm daily.

103A William St, Port Macquarie

103A William St, Port Macquarie

6583 0808

6583 0808

Book your table via our website birdrockbar.com.au

Book your table via our website birdrockbar.com.au

focus contributor.

Palate

with LOU PERRI

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET

Apparently the 90s are back, or so my kids tell me. As far as I’m concerned, I’m still living them (apart from the use of wifi and, well, moving on past the grungy fashions), but the music still reigns supreme in my opinion – Pearl Jam, early Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins…that was the definitive sound of that decade.

Whilst there are some elements like its musical contribution that have stood the test of time when it comes to being still relevant or popular in today’s world, of course there are other parts of it we would like to forget or possibly already have. Bucket hats, cargo pants, platform sandals, dreadlocks and army surplus gear – not flattering the first time around and hopefully not making a comeback any time soon.

Back to the 2020’s…a decade that will indeed be interesting to say the least to look back upon retrospectively. What will be the classic elements of our time now that will endure 20 or 30 years from now? It’s impossible to tell now, but chances are they’ll be an amalgamation of things pinched from previous decades combined with fresh, new ideas.

As just like those great 90s bands still sound good in 2024, some things are just classic and therefore timeless – immune to the fickleness of fashion and fad.

TRAD OR FAD?

This is especially true in the world of restaurants. Culinary and dining fashions come and go, menus become preoccupied with certain ingredients du jour and the wheels are constantly turning on whether it’s all about tapas, or grazing platters, canapes, or fine dining with white tablecloths.

There’s one element when it comes to food that transcends all such predilections. Getting this one right is often the difference between make or break in the restaurant business and is the only path to achieving any sort of longevity within this game.

And that element is….drumroll please… Consistency.

It’s one thing to have the hottest ‘must have’ dish on the menu, it’s another to have the coolest hipster team, but consistency is the one thing that style consultancies can’t buy in, and that is why so many places can’t keep their doors open more than a couple of years.

There is so much to be said for ignoring the fashion and sticking with what is classic when it comes to food.

Entire countries do it - Italy is a perfect example. Where the regional specialities are so perfect that there would be absolutely no reason to mess with them. Where the attention to detail and fastidiousness when it comes to sourcing the

most wonderful and seasonal of local produce and basing your entire cuisine around that premise is paramount.

A perfect example, the region of Piedmont in northern Italy where menus are almost unanimously loyal to the available and the class ingredient. The pasta is ‘tajarin’ (a type of long pasta, similar to tagliatelle but the richest and most delicious egg pasta). Served ‘al ragu’ with a rich and delicious meat sauce you’ll find it on every menu, in every restaurant.

No doubt it has been this way for decades or even centuries! And the restaurants themselves – no banquette seating, ironic detailing or mood lighting to be seen. In fact you would not be hard pressed to imagine the fixtures and fitting being the same as in 1955.

Amazingly none of this makes the slightest bit of difference to the viability of these businesses. In fact they’re heaving each and every day. No menu changes (apart from seasonal variations). No renovations. No food critics and dining guides needed.

Enough said. Point is there are things in life that transcend fashion. There are places where consistency is not merely expected, but where it is celebrated to the point of being revered. Where nobody needs to look for the next big thing because what is already there is magic in itself. Food for thought indeed….

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

Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 5pm

Robert Dwyer

Kew Country Club has recently opened a brand new mini golf course, a fun and dynamic addition to the club that General Manager Robert Dwyer knows will be enjoyed by locals and visitors to the area alike.

What inspired the decision to introduce an 18hole mini golf course at Kew Country Club?

We conducted extensive market research and closely analysed the needs of our growing community. We saw a clear opportunity to diversify our offerings at Kew Country Club and create a more family-friendly environment, appealing to locals and visitors.

One of our synthetic bowling greens was at the end of its useable life. While bowls has been a cornerstone of the club, we felt that adding something new would cater to a broader audience. After much deliberation, the Board of Directors and management team concluded that a mini golf course would be the perfect addition. It's fun, accessible, and appeals to people of all ages. This exciting step forward enhances the overall experience at the club, offering something that complements our existing facilities while bringing a fresh, vibrant energy to the place.

How do you envision the new mini golf course enhancing the experience for families and visitors to the club?

The mini golf course is a game-changer when it comes to creating a welcoming, family friendly atmosphere at Kew Country Club. It’s a fun activity that anyone, regardless of age, can enjoy. It brings families and friends together in a relaxing and enjoyable setting. We’ve already seen it become a go-to spot for Friday night gatherings, especially for families. The playground and seating area around the course have been a hit, allowing parents to relax and enjoy the club’s offerings, like raffles and dining, while the kids are happily entertained. The addition of lighting has extended playtime into the evenings on Fridays, which has proven to be a great success with locals. It’s not just about mini golf - it’s about providing a comprehensive experience where everyone can have a good time, whether they’re playing, dining, or just enjoying the outdoor atmosphere.

Can you tell us about the collaboration process with Mini Golf Australia and local

landscapers in creating the course?

Working with Mini Golf Australia and local landscaper Mick Baker was a fantastic experience. Their combined expertise helped bring our vision for the mini golf precinct to life. We wanted a course that would be visually appealing, family-friendly, and still challenging enough to keep people coming back.

Mini Golf Australia designed a dynamic, engaging course, and we collaborated closely to ensure it suited our community’s needs. Mick Baker’s landscaping skills added a local touch, giving the course its unique character. He went above and beyond in showcasing his talent, making the course both a fun attraction and a testament to his craftsmanship. Together, we’ve created something that truly enhances the character of Kew Country Club. How has the local community responded, and what are your expectations for the course moving forward?

The local community’s response has been fantastic! From the moment we opened the course, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. During the school holidays, it was

especially busy, with families flocking to the club to enjoy the new mini golf experience. Moving forward, we’re confident that it will remain a popular attraction throughout the year. We expect to see continued interest from school groups, corporate events, and birthday parties, and the course will undoubtedly draw in locals and visitors alike. We’re excited to see how it evolves over time and becomes a central part of the club’s appeal.

The addition of a children’s play area and outdoor seating creates a family friendly atmosphere. How important was it to design a space that caters to children and parents?

groups, we’re encouraging families to stay longer and enjoy everything the club has to offer, whether they’re here for mini golf or big golf, Golfland our simulation room, our driving range, bowls, dining, or simply spending time together.

I believe we’ve truly succeeded in creating something special that will boost the club’s reputation throughout the region.

That was a top priority for us. We wanted families to feel comfortable spending time together here, which meant designing a space that everyone could enjoy. The children’s play area is a safe, fun space with exciting features like ninja challenges and a nest swing for chilling out. The outdoor seating allows parents to keep an eye on their kids while relaxing or enjoying a meal. This balance is essential as we’ve created a space where adults can unwind while kids have a great time. By focusing on the needs of both

A catering facility will open soon in the mini golf precinct. Can you share more about the food and beverage options that will be available?

The outdoor barbecue hut adjacent to the playground is now open, offering a variety of food and drink options that enhance the overall experience. We’ve got a great menu and equipment, including a pizza oven, deep fryers, barbecue, and an espresso machine serving Peak Coffee. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the club and brought over to the mini golf area. Our goal is to provide delicious, convenient food and drinks so that whether you’re here for mini golf or just stopping by for a meal, you’ll have plenty of great options to choose from.

As General Manager, what are you most proud of regarding the finished mini golf course?

I’m incredibly proud of the feedback we’ve

received from our members and the local

community. Hearing that the mini golf precinct has exceeded everyone’s expectations gives me immense pride. One particular comment from Brian Dee, the principal of Mini Golf Australia, stood out - he said it’s the second-best course he’s ever constructed out of more than 100. That’s a huge compliment! (His number one course is in Melbourne.)

It was also amazing to see how our local landscaper, Mick Baker, took on the challenge, alongside Mini Golf Australia to make sure it didn’t look like a bowling green converted into a mini golf course. I believe we’ve truly succeeded in creating something special that will boost the club’s reputation throughout the region. The space is a true showcase of Mick’s skills. This project has been a team effort from day one, with everyone involved focused on creating a top-notch, cost-effective facility that would cater to our growing family market.

Where can people find out more or get in touch?

To book a session or event at the Kew Country Club Mini Golf Course, give us a call at 02 6559 4203. You can also visit our website at www.laurietonclub.com.au for more information. We’re just a few weeks away from launching an online booking system, which will make planning your visit even easier!

Thanks Robert.

PROPAGATION Station

passion

e Propagation Station is a hive of creativity, designing and producing indoor plant styling, home decor and botanic solutions to make your living space thrive with plants. Proprietor David speaks with Focus about his passion for hydroponic growing.

Hlittle about your products and services and what sparked your interest initially in this creative space?

The Propagation Station is at its core a hydroponic and indoor plant shop. But more than that, it is a place where you can come and chat all things plants, learn and share ideas, and hopefully find some inspiration! We have everything you need to start you on your propagation journey, and we are there to offer support along the way. You will find spectacular hydro-creations and unique gift ideas, a wide variety of plant options (including a cuttings bar), and we range Australia’s largest in-store propagation station collection.

We also run propagation workshops, private events and Christmas parties. After having a bit of a break, I will also be announcing very soon new dates for our very popular wine, cheese and propagation evenings. My passion for plants was shared by Shaun, my partner and husband of 15 years. The whole idea of The Propagation Station was born during COVID, when we both decided

Spending time around plants is also linked with increased selfesteem and greater life satisfaction, reduced anxiety and stress, and increase in levels of comfort and positive emotions.

that we wanted to be doing something in life that we were truly passionate about. What begun as a ‘side-hustle’ soon turned into a giant leap of faith, as we both quit our full-time jobs and opened our shop. Tragically, Shaun passed away in May this year, and although heartbroken, in many ways it has been my love of our business and what we do, and the support of our beautiful customers and community that has kept me going.

You specialise in propagating plants hydroponically and believe plants have the ability to bring us happiness. What can we learn from plants?

I genuinely get excited about adding a new plant to my living room, even if it does involve a re-shuffle to fit. And I honestly get excited when I see hydro root-growth or the sprout of a new leaf, there’s actually a unique thrill to watching them grow!

Plants have the power to enhance any space and make it more inviting. Plus, there’s a

robust body of research indicating they make us happier and healthier. Spending time around plants is also linked with increased self-esteem and greater life satisfaction, reduced anxiety and stress, and increase in levels of comfort and positive emotions.

Do indoor plants have the ability to improve the air quality in our home?

Absolutely! One of the most overlooked aspects of a healthy home is indoor air quality. According to studies conducted by NASA and other environmental experts, many common indoor plants can purify the air and remove certain pollutants, such as formaldehyde, benzene, and other volatile organic compounds.

In addition to purifying the air, indoor plants provide numerous benefits, including boosting mental well-being, reducing stress, and bringing a sense of calm and tranquillity into our lives. They also act as natural humidifiers, releasing moisture and maintaining comfortable

humidity.

What have been some of your highlights or pieces your have produced during your career?

One of our first hydrocreation ideas that has been hugely popular,

still to this day, is our syngonium hanging macramé fishbowls.

In terms of head-turning show-stoppers, some of the cra ed glass dri wood creations I have put together with mixed philodendrons or monstera have been spectacular!

The humble syngonium was our first ever water plant, and it will always hold a special place in my heart, as it was also Shaun’s favourite plant. In terms of head-turning show-stoppers, some of the crafted glass driftwood creations I have put together with mixed philodendrons or monstera have been spectacular!

But I think the thing I’m proudest of the most is the original and unique creation of the hydrolamp. A perfect way to add ambience to any room, the idea has been very successful and is consistently a best seller.

We are heading into Christmas and the busy retail period. What ideas do you have from The Propagation Staton for Christmas gifts?

We have gift ideas for all budgets and any

age group. You can also personalise your gift by combining any station with a plant of your choice. There will also be a range of different gift hampers, and if you want to take the stress away, we can do you a gift voucher for any denomination, and they never expire. I will also be introducing a brand new propagation ultimate starters pack, which includes our best selling 2-vase varied-height station and all the essentials that you need. After something specific, it’s no worries at all, as I can custom make specially for you.

Buying a Christmas gift from The Propagation Station this year has never been easier, as not only can you get it from our North Haven shop or Settlement City pop-ups, you can also purchase from Kaleidoscope in Port Central, Greenbourne Nursery in Wauchope, or The Witchy Nook on Horton Street.

For people interested in talking more with you about your work or engaging your services, how can they best get in touch?

Either pop into the shop in North Haven, or reach out through our socials @thepropagationstationaustralia

Thanks David. Interview: Sarah Baker.

Maeve Peer

LA VIVE STUDIOS

Maeve is a senior student of La Vive Studios and has the lead role of Dorothy for her last concert with us before she graduates to full time study at the Queensland National Ballet in 2025.

Maeve, what does it mean to you to take on the lead role of Dorothy in your final concert at La Vive Studios?

It means the world to me to be able to take on the important role of Dorothy, especially being my last year at La Vive Studios. It has been a dream of mine since I was little to be able to perform as a lead character and I also love the whole process of being a lead. I love being able to explore the character of Dorothy and to really get to know her. I like to do character research and have watched several adaptations of the ‘Wizard of Oz’ and was even lucky enough to be able to see the live performance ‘Wicked’.

Allowing me to connect what I have seen, to my performance, makes me able to give it my best. Being able to perform alongside all of my friends who are also lead characters is special for me too, the greatest memories come from dancing with your friends. Taking on the role of Dorothy has allowed me to take that extra step and demonstrate my dedication and love towards dance. I’m sad it’s my last year at La Vive, I will miss the amazing teachers and all my friends but being Dorothy is truly a great way to end my final year.

How has your experience at La Vive Studios

shaped you as a dancer and performer?

I wouldn’t be where I am today without all the amazing teachers at LVS who have supported me right from the very beginning even as a little 2yr old. They have mentored me through my dance training, pushing me to become the best dancer I can. They are always there for me, watching me at dance Eisteddfods or dedicating time for extra lessons. It also wouldn’t be without all my dance friends, dancing with them is one of the greatest feelings and we have made so many great memories. My friends are so encouraging which is crucial for becoming a great dancer and they have really made my time at LVS the best experience.

What inspired you to pursue a career in ballet, and how has the studio supported that dream?

I was originally inspired by my older sister who was also a dancer. I always loved watching her dance and wanted to be just like her. When I was little I would always be found dancing to Disney songs performing to my family, wearing my sister’s old costumes. Mum has also always taken me to watch performances, some of them by the Australian ballet or Sydney Dance Company. I can always remember leaving so inspired and would always tell my parents that when I’m older I was moving to Europe with my best friend Rose to dance In a contemporary

company - and still to this day, that is the dream. I’m also always very inspired by the successful careers of ex-dancers. I love hearing all the stories of their journeys of becoming a professional dancer. LVS has supported me in many ways to try to achieve my dream of dancing professionally in a contemporary company with the amazing training of all styles allowing me to have proper ballet technique but at the same time be able to dance lyrical, jazz, contemporary, acro, drama and musical theatre. They also provided incredible opportunities of performing at competitions and shows, and going to workshops and auditions.

Can you share some insights into the rehearsal process for this end-of-year show? What has been your favorite part so far?

The rehearsal process of creating Beyond the Yellow Brick Road is quite the experience. We help create the storylines, scripts and scenes. In the studio we work on different dance scenes and try to develop our characters and tell the story through dancing.

What challenges have you faced while preparing for the role of Dorothy, and how have you overcome them?

Being Dorothy means I have a lot of stage time, with very few breaks! This is where I’m faced with the challenge of trying to remember all the dances. To help this I like to always go home and practice what I have learnt that day to ensure it

sticks in my brain. I am also singing a song in the show which is a bit out of my comfort zone. I have sung on stage before but never in front of a huge audience, but with the help of Miss Liz I have gained more confidence with my singing. How do you and your fellow dancers support each other during rehearsals?

My dance friends and I always support each other and help one another to be our best, especially during the busy rehearsal times when there's a lot to learn. One of our favourite things to do is to meet up at each other's houses to work on dances and make sure everyone is confident with the choreography.

What are you most excited about for the upcoming concert?

I am most excited about performing on stage and playing my part as Dorothy, but I’m also excited to see how it all comes together - the dancing, costumes, lighting and creating a performance the audience will love. Is there a particular moment or scene in the performance that you’re especially looking forward to?

I’m especially looking forward to performing the scene when Dorothy meets the scarecrow. I'm excited to do a duo with my friend Ashleigh who is the scarecrow. I also love the Emerald City scene and the tornado scene. I love the dancing and especially the incorporation of Dorothy’s bed in the tornado scene.

How do you plan to celebrate this milestone with your fellow students after the concert?

Every year we have an end of year dance presentation with the entire studio to celebrate everyone’s achievements. This year will be special because myself and several of my dance friends will graduate from LVS. It will be sad to go our separate ways, but exciting to celebrate together!

What do you think makes La Vive Studios unique compared to other dance schools?

LVS is definitely one of a kind and I’m so lucky to be a part of it. I think what makes LVS unique is that LVS offers and specialises in all types of genres. We understand the importance of having proper ballet technique but at the same time being able to be a versatile performer. Being versatile is very important because you are then exposed to more opportunities in every pathway of dance. No matter what you want to do, whether it’s join a contemporary company like me, or join a ballet company or perform in musicals or the Moulin Rouge or more commercial styles, LVS can support students with every career option.

How has the studio prepared you for your next steps at the Queensland National Ballet?

LVS has helped in many ways to prepare me for my journey in full time, like extending me to be able to complete my final RAD advanced 2 Ballet exam and supporting me doing the QLD Ballet Guest Academy program and helping me with my audition for the Queensland National Ballet .

What advice would you give to younger dancers who aspire to follow in your footsteps?

My advice for younger aspiring dancers is to really put yourself out there and do as much as you can to extend yourself and to be learning every day. Dedication is also a major part of becoming a dancer. It may be hard work but if you put in the dedication and have the desire to become a dancer nothing can stop you! Always work hard in and out of class and focus on good technique, but most of all enjoy what you are doing.

f you are like me and pep talk to yourself before dancing, I always like to think of this “Don’t think of what not to do, think of WHAT TO DO.”

What are your goals as you transition to full-time study at the Queensland National Ballet?

My goals when studying full time is to perfect my style of contemporary as well as my ballet technique. I’m looking forward to working really hard to gain further knowledge and try to improve every day.

How do you hope to carry the lessons learned at La Vive Studios into your future career?

I hope to carry out all my knowledge of technique and performance that I have learnt from LVS, but overall I hope to carry out the LVS spirit of always putting in dedication to what you love most.

Thanks Maeve.

PBurns

PORT MACQUARIE ARTS & CRAFT CENTRE

Centre

visit 16th building Learning

ort Macquarie Arts & Craft Centre (PMACC) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Can you tell us about how the centre was first established in 1974 and the vision behind it?

It all began with a meeting of 40 people chaired by Dorothy Hope. After much fundraising a building was erected at Thrumster Village known as the Hastings Community Craft Centre.

From humble beginnings to a brandnew building at the Oxley Vale Lifelong Learning Centre, PMACC has seen significant growth over the years. What has this journey been like for the centre and its members?

By 1981 the first building was overcrowded and, under President Barbera Murphy, fundraising began again and the building was moved to Gordon Street Port Macquarie on

Kerry Burns has been part of the Port Macquarie Arts & Cra s Centre for 35 years, and as the centre celebrates its 50th anniversary she invites the community to visit them at the Open Day on November in their new building at the Oxley Vale Lifelong Learning Centre.

the back of a truck.

Two new buildings were added with the woodworkers building their own under the guidance of Eric Warton.

The Blue Building flourished for many years, but time took its toll on the old building and some of the members after 42 years.

The new building was officially opened in December 2023. What does this new space mean for PMACC?

hard work by previous committees. Most of the groups have their own rooms in which to work now.

With over 50 years of history, PMACC has nurtured creativity and friendship within the community. What impact do you think the centre has had on the local arts and craft scene?

We have recently been a part of the Lost Plot Spring Fair showing handmade leather and woodwork to a new set of wonderful community minded people to support hand made goods.

The new building, on the Oxley Highway next door to Douglas Vale Vineyard, was opened on 04/12/2023 thanks to a grant received with the help of local member Leslie Williams and ten years of

The centre has given people a chance to learn a craft they have always wanted to and meet like minded people.

We have recently been a part of the Lost Plot Spring Fair showing handmade leather and woodwork to a new set of wonderful community minded people to support hand made goods.

We have also supported Douglas Vale

Wineries Events and had the opportunity to meet and sell to a community that has supported handmade local goods.

Some of the original members from 1974 are still active in the centre today which says a lot about the sense of community at PMACC. Can you tell us a bit about your own experience at the centre?

Yes, we have three members still coming to the centre that I know of who were members from Thrumster. They are going to cut the cake at our 50th Anniversary Lunch.

I have been a member personally for 35 years, have served on the committee for a few years and I am Co-Ordinator of the Leather Group. The centre offers a wide variety of crafts, from pottery to silverwork to sculpture. What other art forms and crafts are on offer?

A number of things are available at PMACC; general art and portrait painting, lapidary, leatherwork, pottery, silversmith, spinning, knitting and crochet, weaving, woodwork, and porcelain painting. The centre supports many charities. Can you elaborate on some of the charitable work PMACC has been involved in over the years?

e diversity of goods and what we do also brings a diversity of people to move forward in a progressive world to make goods that last a lifetime in a throw away world.

At the moment members have been knitting blankets and beanies for the homeless of Port Macquarie. We have been involved in projects like this many times over the years.

PMACC’s 50th Anniversary Open Day on November 16th is a great opportunity for the public to visit and explore the centre’s work. What can visitors expect to see, and how can they get involved?

Most of the members will have treasures they have made at the centre on sale at the Open Day and Sale. We are also having a dynamic and diverse raffle of exciting proportions to entice visitors to buy tickets for fundraising. Entry will be free.

As a non-profit organisation, PMACC relies on fundraising and community

support. How can the community continue to get behind this organisation?

Visit us to see what we do and maybe consider becoming a member. It is fun, addictive and the costs are minimal.

Looking ahead, what are some of the centre’s goals for the future, and how do you see it continuing to thrive in the next 50 years?

With the new building new crafts will soon be added and we have some younger members joining, so hopefully the PMACC will continue to be a great place for pursuing a new activity and making new friends.

The diversity of goods and what we do also brings a diversity of people to move forward in a progressive world to make goods that last a lifetime in a throw away world.

It is always amazing to look at people and see a belt I made years ago that has lasted a lifetime and know that quality and friendship are goals of the PMA

Thanks Kerry.

Danny Schouten

SHARK

BITE KITS

A er local surfer Kai McKenzie was bi en by a shark earlier this year, his friend and fellow surfer Danny Schouten decided it was time to make sure that anyone in this situation had the best possible chance of survival and started a campaign to set up community-funded shark bite kits at local beaches.

Hi Danny. Can you tell us about how the idea for the Shark Bite Kits came about?

Knowing how fortunate Kai was that day, that Steve, the retired police officer just happened to be there at just the right time, and just happened to be walking his dog (have a dog lead to use as a makeshift tourniquet), and just happened to be trained in how to control a life threatening bleed, I thought, no one should ever have to be in the same situation ever again, where their odds of surviving are left to chance. The reality is that shark attacks will continue to occur. For a lot of us who’ve grown up on the coast, the ocean is a massive part of our life. Crazily enough, even when an event like Kai’s hits so close to home, it’s not going to stop us going in the water, it’s not even going to stop Kai. The only thing we can do is be prepared. So hopefully these kits can help.

What went into developing the kits? What's inside the shark bite response kits and how can they help save lives in

emergency situations?

The few minutes following a shark attack are crucial, and how quickly the person receives treatment can mean the difference between life or death. I did my research and found that a lot of kits online are overpriced. These kits contained things like scissors and I thought, in the event that someone is bitten, who is going to say “can you hold on just a moment mate while I cut these bandages to length”. The most crucial thing we need to do is control the bleeding as soon as possible and call triple zero (000). So that’s what's in this kit; the essentials. There are two tourniquets, two large dressings, a compression bandage (soon to be two), a thermal blanket, a safety whistle for attracting attention, amputated parts bags, gloves and a simple to understand step-by-step shark bite management card. Shark attacks don’t just occur at popular and patrolled beaches between the hours of 9am to 5pm. Surf Life Savers have these kits ready to use at a moment's notice, but they’re useless to the person who’s bitten at 6am when the kit is locked away in the club. These kits are mounted

as close to the beach as possible, ready at any time of the day, for anyone to be able to access. You never know when an accident will occur, but at least you're prepared.

How did the community rally around this project? How does it feel to see the community and fellow surfers come together to support this initiative?

The community’s support was unreal. I guess like me, the community realises how important a project like this is. Thousands of people showed support and donated to raise money for more kits and to keep them maintained, and it hasn’t stopped. The coolest thing about our community is everyone wants to do their bit. Nobody sits back and goes, “cool idea, good luck”. They say, “tell me what I can do to help”, everyone wants to chip in, it's epic. I’d love to thank a few people. First of all Kai, Eve and the Mckenzie family for supporting the idea. Jye and Lachy Kelly, those who know Jye and Lach, know they have hearts of gold. Anthony and Nicole Donohue, Keith Hogan from the Bonny Hills Garden Centre, Mykaela at Bunnings and Dennis from Sign City Plus, as well as Sophie

Fletcher from Sophie Fletcher Designs all helped to make this project what it is.

In addition to the kits, do you think more trauma training or safety measures are needed at our local beaches?

If you use the beach regularly, it’s definitely worth considering learning how to respond in the event of a shark attack. Your knowledge could mean a family gets to see their loved one again. The same goes for boaties in the event of a prop related injury. The last thing anyone wants is to be the first responder to a lifethreatening bleeding incident and have no idea what to do.

What advice would you give to beachgoers or surfers when it comes to shark safety?

There’s a bunch of research on safer times to be in the water, so do your research. Honestly though, most divers can tell you sharks are there more than you know and most of the time are completely uninterested in you. However, we are in their environment and I guess you basically signed an invisible waiver every time you go in the water. Like I said earlier, we’re definitely not going to stop doing what we love, so we either be smart about how we do it, or accept those risks. Dave Pearson from Bite Club has an excellent video on Instagram where he explains the risk to a

man who was about to surf knowing full well a shark had been spotted.

Do you have any plans to continue fundraising and supplying kits, and how can people get involved or support the cause?

Any donation is gratefully accepted and will keep the kits supplied in our area for longer. At the moment I need the community’s support to keep an eye on them and report any issues they see.

Definitely. The Gofundme page is still up and you can find the link on the Community SKB Instagram page or by searching Gofundme –Community SBK. Any donation is gratefully accepted and will keep the kits supplied in our area for longer. At the moment I need the community’s support to keep an eye on them and report any issues they see. People, families, clubs or businesses can be a part of the initiative and support by sponsoring a kit, which involves keeping a regular eye on it and funding the maintenance or replacement should anything happen. What's next for the shark bite kit campaign and what are your long-term goals for this project?

The long-term goal would be to have one of these kits on every beach and have the support

from the government to keep them maintained and ready for action. Ideally it should be an initiative looked after by either local councils or surf lifesaving clubs. If the donations are there, and the council/ clubs aren’t willing to jump on board then I’m happy to support my community and give my time to creating these kits. I have had to reconsider how I’m going to sustainably manage this venture to deal with orders outside of our area though. That reality left me with a 48hr headache after getting off the phone to Rotary who proposed the idea of attaining hundreds of kits at cost price. Shark bite kits aren’t my full-time job and I’m just happy to be doing something to help, so I’ll just see where it goes.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

Stu Nettle wrote a nice article on Swellnet. com where he compared the importance of these shark bite kits to Angel Rings installed on headlands for the safety of our rock fisherman. If you’d like to get in touch, feel free to email infobiteaid@gmail.com or contact Community SBK on Instagram.

Thanks Danny.

Lola Styles is a force on the volleyball court and her drive and determination has seen her representing NSW at some big competitions recently! She is already an accomplished surfer and we are excited to see where this sport takes her next.

Hi Lola. Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started playing volleyball?

When I was in primary school I always thought volleyball was a fun sport, but I had to wait until high school before I could try out for any teams. Unfortunately my high school does not have a girls volleyball team, but I wanted to play so I asked the senior boys coach if I could at least attend their practices just so I could play volleyball in some way. Thankfully he said yes and it was really the start of my volleyball journey! He noticed I had some skills and encouraged me to try out for the regional teams. My first try out – which was also my very first time ever playing a real game of volleyball, was for the Lower North Coast Opens team and I was so excited to be selected. After that, I continued to try out and be selected and play for more teams – North Coast (2nd place at State Titles this year); NSWCHS U15s; NSW U15 ALL SCHOOLS team (3rd place at Nationals this year; and finally, I

was recently selected for the U15s NSW PHOENIX team, competing at another national event, the Australian Youth Volleyball Championships in Bendigo, VIC this past September.

What do you enjoy most about volleyball and what got you hooked on the sport?

After several years as a competitive surfer, I fell in love with volleyball because of the team aspect. Competitive surfing can be quite tough mentally as it can feel like it’s just you and your mindset out there.

volleyball!

e libero is an essential player on a volleyball team! Liberos are known for their defensive skills and court awareness.

With volleyball I was able to find encouragement and positivity like I’ve never experienced before. All my coaches and teammates have been amazing support systems to turn to during and after each practice or game and even outside of

Another huge reason that I fell in love with volleyball is the position I play – LIBERO. Most people that don’t know volleyball don’t know what that is! The libero is an essential player on a volleyball team! Liberos are known for their defensive skills and court awareness. They need to excel in digging and passing and bring a unique energy to the game. Their ability to read the opponent's attacks and communicate effectively with teammates makes them a backbone of the defence. You’ll often see that liberos are wearing a different colour jersey than their other teammates to set them apart on the court. I love the challenge of being a libero – although I am covered in bruises often!

Continued over...

I also train at home almost daily, working on my skills in the backyard with mum. In the summer school holidays I’ll be hitting the gym as well to build my strength, speed and agility.

Where do you train and what is your current training schedule like?

Locally I train Tuesday nights at the Port Sports Stadium and on Friday afternoons with the Wauchope High School teams who have been amazing to let me be a part of their practices each week as my high school does not have a team. I also train at home almost daily, working on my skills in the backyard with Mum. In the summer school holidays I’ll be hitting the gym as well to build my strength, speed and agility.

For the NSW teams, I travel to Sydney Olympic Park every Saturday for training. I am so lucky that I have a family that supports my goals and dreams and is ok to drive me the 8-10 hours each weekend for practices!

You have been playing at a very high level representing NSW, can you tell us about some of your volleyball career highlights so far?

This whole volleyball journey has been one big highlight! I’m just having so much fun and I’ve made so many friends, it’s been

such an amazing experience. I will say that one huge highlight for me was being selected as co-captain for the NSW Phoenix team when we attended the Australian Youth Volleyball Championships in September. It was a very proud moment for me.

If you would have told me a year ago that I would be playing for NSW, I wouldn’t have believed you, but I have been working and training very hard, so I am extremely proud of being selected for the NSW teams.

How does it feel to represent your state and your community at a national competition?

If you would have told me a year ago that I would be playing for NSW, I wouldn’t have believed you, but I have been working and training very hard, so I am extremely proud at being selected for the NSW teams. The community in Port Macquarie has always been so good to me in my sporting career and I could not have been prouder to be representing the state of NSW as the ONLY REGIONAL player on the team! I am always sure to tell people where I’m from

and how much of an amazing place it is to live!

Have there been any role models or coaches who have significantly influenced your development as a player?

I honestly can’t thank Mr. Neilson from Hastings Secondary College (Port Campus) enough for giving me a shot at volleyball in the first place! He saw more in me at the start of my journey than I saw in myself.

I really hit the coach jackpot with Mr. Clayworth, the coach from my North Coast team and the coach of the Wauchope High School team. He is such a positive force and his knowledge of volleyball is beyond excellent. He has guided me in the position of libero and has always had my back 100%. His assistant coaches, Connor and Jet have been instrumental in building my skills so that I was able to progress to

higher levels in volleyball.

Outside of volleyball what are some of your other interests?

I still love surfing and spending days at the beach with my friends. I hope to do a lot of both this summer holidays!

What are some of your goals and aspirations for the future, both in volleyball and in general?

In volleyball, I’d love to continue to play for my regional and NSW teams throughout my high school career. Future goals in volleyball are to play for Australia and I want to play volleyball overseas during university – hopefully at the University of British Columbia (UBC)! Besides UBC being the current Canadian National champions, the school also has a great marine studies program that I’d like to get into.

Outside of volleyball, I’m super keen to start working at my first job – surf coaching for Port Macquarie Surf School! I’m looking forward to saving some money and being able to travel the world one day! Thanks Lola.

with

RACHEL LEMAN

FROM MISS MOTIVATOR

3 COMMON FITNESS MYTHS HOLDING WOMEN BACK - AND THE TRUTHS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Welcome to the November Fitness Update! When it comes to fitness, women often hear a lot of advice, some of which is based more on myth than science. Unfortunately, these myths can hold you back from getting the best results and even discourage you from trying new things. Let’s break down three of the most common mythsand offer solutions that actually work.

Myth #1: “Lifting Weights Will Make You Bulk Up”

Reality: One of the biggest misconceptions in women’s fitness is the fear that lifting weights will lead to a bulky or “too muscular” appearance. In reality, it’s incredibly challenging for women to gain that kind of muscle mass without a specialised, high-calorie diet and training program. Women naturally produce far less testosterone than men, making it difficult to “bulk up” from regular strength training. Solution: Strength training isn’t about getting big - it’s about getting strong. When women lift weights, they build lean muscle that helps create a toned, defined look. More importantly, lifting weights is essential for long-term health, improving bone density which helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis as we age. Studies have shown that weight-bearing exercises stimulate bone growth, providing a natural defence against fractures and bone loss.

Strength training also helps with hormone regulation. It can support healthy levels of key hormones like cortisol and insulin, which play a role in stress management and metabolism.

Plus, many women find that lifting weights improves their mental health by boosting selfconfidence and reducing stress and anxiety.

Myth #2: “Restricting Calories is the Key to Weight Loss”

Reality: It’s a common belief that drastically cutting calories is the fastest way to lose weight. While a calorie deficit is necessary for weight loss, restrictive dieting can do more harm than good. When you cut calories too severely, your body enters “starvation mode,” slowing down your metabolism to conserve energy. Over time, this adaptation can make it harder to lose weight and easier to regain it, often leading to a cycle of yo-yo dieting.

Restricting calories can disrupt your body’s natural hunger and fullness signals, making it hard to develop a healthy relationship with food. Avoiding entire food groups can leave you low in essential nutrients, which may affect energy levels and immune functions.

Solution: Instead of focusing on what you can’t eat, focus on what you can add to your diet to support energy and health. A balanced approach includes all three macronutrients - carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Carbs provide quick energy, essential for workouts and daily activities; proteins are vital for muscle repair and recovery; and healthy fats support brain health, hormone balance, and satiety. Additionally, choosing nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help you feel satisfied while fueling your workouts and day-to-day life.

Myth #3: “If You’re Not Sweating, You’re Not Working Hard Enough”

Reality: There’s a widespread belief that you

need to be dripping in sweat for a workout to “count.” Sweating is simply your body’s way of regulating temperature - it’s not an indicator of workout quality or intensity and can vary depending on temperature, humidity, and genetics and not just how hard you’re working. While cardio exercises that get you sweating are great for cardiovascular health and endurance, they’re not the only important component of a fitness program. Focusing solely on sweat-inducing cardio workouts means missing out on other crucial elements, like strength, balance, and core stability.

Solution: A well-rounded fitness routine includes various types of exercise, each with its own benefits. Strength training for building lean muscle and supporting metabolism; balance exercises for stability and to reduce the risk of falls and injuries, and focused core workouts to help with posture, back health, and overall functional strength. There is, of course, a time and place for cardio, but mixing it with strength, balance, and core-focused work ensures that you’re supporting your body’s needs in a balanced way.

At Miss Motivator, we believe fitness is about empowerment, not restriction. Ready to experience a workout environment that’s focused on you and what really works? Grab your 7-day trial pass for just $10 and join a community that’s dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Stay Strong.

Rach x

Gamble

AWARE

Gambling is a popular pastime for many Australians, offering the thrill of winning and a temporary escape from everyday life. For some, it feels like a natural part of living; however, this enjoyment can sometimes lead to problematic behaviour.

If you or a loved one are facing challenges related to gambling, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Seeking help is a crucial first step, and at GambleAware Mid and Northern NSW, support is just a phone call away. There’s no shame in reaching out for assistance to minimise risks and navigate the path to recovery.

1. TAKE THE FIRST STEP: MAKE THE CALL

Are you ready to talk? If you’re worried about how gambling affects your life or that of a loved one, call GambleAware at 02 6651 4093. Our trained counsellors provide free, confidential advice and support. Whether you want to discuss your feelings, gain insights, or explore solutions, we’re here for you.

2. LOCAL SUPPORT IS WITHIN REACH GambleAware offers free counselling services

throughout New South Wales for individuals affected by gambling and their loved ones. You can arrange in-person consultations, which can be crucial for healing and understanding.

3. FINANCIAL COUNSELLING: REGAINING CONTROL

If gambling has led to financial difficulties, our financial counselling can help you regain control. We connect you with trained professionals who offer free, confidential assistance. They can help you assess your situation, create a money management plan, and address credit and debt issues.

4. UNDERSTANDING YOUR EMOTIONS

If someone close to you is struggling with gambling, you may feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. The impact of their gambling can seep into every aspect of your life. Remember, you deserve support too.

Taking care of yourself is vital. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s spending time with friends or enjoying a hobby.

5. PRIORITISE YOUR WELL-BEING

Taking care of yourself is vital. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s spending time with friends or enjoying a hobby. Self-care can help manage stress and anxiety, empowering you to cope better during challenging times.

6. LEAN ON YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK

Share your feelings with family and friends. While they can provide emotional support, professional help is invaluable. Sometimes, talking to someone outside your circle allows for more open and honest conversations.

7. UNDERSTANDING CULTURAL SUPPORT SERVICES

If you prefer support in your native language, GambleAware offers resources in over 40 community languages, including specialised services for Aboriginal people.

8. KEEPING YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY SAFE

If you ever feel threatened or unsafe due to someone’s gambling, know that help is

available. Your safety is paramount. Talk to a counsellor about creating a safety plan, and don’t hesitate to reach out for emergency support if needed.

9. THE LINK BETWEEN GAMBLING AND MENTAL HEALTH

Recognising the relationship between gambling and mental health issues is crucial. If you suspect someone may be at risk of selfharm or suicide, seek help immediately. Call Triple Zero (000) or your local mental health crisis team.

10. TAKING ACTION FOR FINANCIAL SAFETY

If you're worried about the financial impact of gambling, take proactive steps to safeguard your finances. This could include seeking legal

advice or working with a financial counsellor to implement protective strategies.

Recovery may be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. GambleAware Mid and Northern NSW is here to provide support and guidance, ensuring access to necessary resources. With offices between Tweed Heads and Laurieton, including Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie and Kempsey, we are committed to being accessible to you.

Call GambleAware Mid & Northern NSW at 02 6651 4093 for free, confidential support, or visit our website gambleaware.nsw.gov.au to learn more about local services. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and your well-being matters. You deserve support on your journey to recovery.

With DR KRISTY KOSTALAS RE-WRITING THE

eauty of

Cosmetic Doctor, FRACGP

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

MED0001195854

Specialist Registration in General Practice

MANAGING

ACNE: TEENS AND ADULTS

Is acne common only in teenagers?

No, acne affects over 85% of teenagers but also many adults, especially women, who can continue to experience it into their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Peri-menopause causes acne in 10% of women over the age of 40.

Where does acne typically appear for teenagers vs. adults?

Teenagers usually get acne in the T-zone (forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin), while adults often experience it on the lower third of the face and neck. But unfortunately it really can pop up everywhere, including on the back on the teens.

What are the types of acne?

in severity and requires specific treatment approaches. Is it true chocolate causes acne?

Chocolate itself does not directly cause acne, but some studies suggest that certain components of chocolate, particularly high sugar and dairy content in milk chocolate, may contribute to acne flareups in some individuals. The relationship between diet and acne is complex, and very patient dependent.

We o en improve teen skin simply by ge ing them in for a consult and talking them through which products to use and not use.

Acne can be classified into several types:

Comedonal acne includes whiteheads and blackheads; Inflammatory acne presents as red, swollen papules or pustules; Cystic acne involves deep, painful cysts; and Nodular acne features large, hard bumps. Each type varies

Can patients manage their acne at home?

Absolutely they can. The most important thing is to have the right skin care. We often improve teen skin simply by getting them in for a consult and talking them through which products to use and not use. A teen acne consult is only $45 with one of our team. We recommend simple skincare that isnt expensive and actually works. Usually the regime is as simple as a cleanser, B3 and sunscreen! What professional treatments are

available, and suitable for all ages?

LED Light Therapy (heallite) is really popular. It kills the acne bugs and simply involves lying under a light. Mild chemical peels are also excellent for reducing active acne. Medical microneedling not only regulates oil production but also minimizes scarring. And for the big guns we use Nano-Fractional Radiofrequency Resurfacing to treat those deep acne scars and pigmentation. How can I get professional help for my acne?

Acne is a medical condition. It often requires a medical consultation and plan, but even simple teen acne benefits from the right skincare advice. I’d book a consultation with one of my team (we have an acne specific consult online you can book) at Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic by calling us or scanning the QR code to get our website details.

Womens Health

with GRAYCE GERKE

WOMEN'S HEALTH PHYSIOTHERAPY

SPECIALISED CARE FOR YOUR PELVIC HEALTH

surgery, or ageing - they can cause significant problems such as:

• Incontinence: Difficulty controlling bladder or bowel movements.

FROM WOMEN’S HEALTH PHYSIO/ PHYSIO COLLECTIVE

Women’s health physiotherapy is a specialist area within physiotherapy that requires additional education and training beyond the standard physiotherapy degree. To be qualified in complex conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and other pelvic floor disorders, women’s health physiotherapists undertake further university qualifications, professional certificates, and extensive workshops. This equips us to deliver targeted, effective care for women dealing with these often-overlooked health issues.

When people think of physiotherapy, they often imagine rehabilitation for sports injuries, back pain, or post-operative recovery. While these are important aspects of physiotherapy, women’s health physiotherapy focuses on a different set of concerns.

What Does a Women's Health Physiotherapist Do?

Women’s health physiotherapists focus on issues related to the pelvic floor, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, menopause, and more. The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting key organs like the bladder, uterus, and bowel, and in maintaining control over bladder and bowel function. When these muscles are weakened, overactive, or damaged - often due to pregnancy, childbirth,

• Pelvic organ prolapse (POP): The descent of pelvic organs, such as the bladder or uterus, which can cause discomfort and affect quality of life.

• Pelvic pain: Chronic pain in the pelvic region, which can arise from musculoskeletal issues or nerve dysfunction.

• Sexual dysfunction: Pain during intercourse, reduced sensation, or difficulty achieving orgasm.

At Physio Collective - MNC, we help women overcome these challenges through tailored treatments which may include pelvic floor exercises (such as Kegels), manual therapy, pessary fitting, biofeedback, and education on bladder and bowel habits. Our goal is to empower women to regain control of their bodies and improve their overall well-being.

Supporting Women Through Life's Stages

1. Pregnancy and Postpartum

Pregnancy places considerable strain on the pelvic floor due to the extra weight and hormonal changes. Many women experience pelvic pain or incontinence during pregnancy. We work with pregnant women to prepare their bodies for childbirth and recovery, guiding them through exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor and provide manual therapy to alleviate discomfort.

2. Postpartum recovery

Whether a woman has experienced natural birth, a caesarean, or any perineal trauma, we help her regain pelvic strength and function, ensuring that long-term issues such as

incontinence or prolapse do not develop.

3. Perimenopause and Menopause

Hormonal shifts lead to changes in muscle tone and tissue elasticity, which can weaken the pelvic floor making women more prone to pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence. Women’s health physiotherapy offers targeted exercises and lifestyle advice to help maintain pelvic health during this time, equiping women with the knowledge and tools they need to manage these changes confidently.

Pelvic Health Beyond Childbirth

Many women who have never been pregnant can still experience pelvic floor dysfunction due to factors like chronic constipation, heavy lifting, or ageing. We can provide care to all women helping them address pelvic health issues that may arise at any point in their lives. We frequently work with athletes who experience pelvic floor problems due to highimpact activities. Additionally, many older women seek our help in managing prolapse or incontinence, which can be part of the natural ageing process.

Women’s health physiotherapy is most effective when it’s part of a holistic, multidisciplinary approach. We collaborate with gynaecologists, urologists, obstetricians, and general practitioners to ensure women receive the comprehensive care they need.

At Physio Collective - MNC, which has been operating since 2019 with clinics in Port Macquarie and Taree, we specialise in providing this vital care to women across the Mid North Coast. Our clinic offers a safe and professional environment where women can seek treatment, confident in the knowledge that they are receiving expert, evidence-based care tailored to their individual needs.

A new team is built on integration and true talent with the INTERNATIONAL COLOURFUL TEAM OF EVELINA KEMP HAIR AND BEAUTY!

EVELINA Owner

First and foremost I’d like to thank all of my clients who have been with me for so long! The team we have today are all individuals with their own personal insights and true souls of talent and integrity. Over the years, I’ve had many opportunities to embrace people in the industry under the umbrella of my business and today I can say it’s all about inclusion and extending a hand to build each person’s talent and experience in their venture.

SARAH La Fuente

I offer intuitive and integrative bodywork with various massage modalities including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Points, Re exology, Prenatal as well as others. Experience one for yourself. Book online lafuente. com.au or DM 0434 021 776. Gift vouchers available for Christmas.

ADAM Hair Stylist

There’s nothing I love more than cutting and styling hair! I am dedicated to understanding my clients’ needs to help them achieve the stunning look they deserve. With over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry, I’ve proudly participated in more than 50 professional advertising campaigns, collaborating with both niche and mass-market brands internationally.

SERENA Hair Stylist

Evelina’s salon is such a vibrant place to work, our whole team feels like a family. I love making meaningful connections with each and every one of my clients. Seeing them glow with joy and con dence truly makes me adore my craft all the more. I also provide a mobile service for clients who prefer to have their hair done in the comfort of their own home.

LIDI Make-up Artist

As a passionate make-up artist, I love creating beautiful looks that highlight natural beauty. For the past two years, I have proudly collaborated with Evelina Kemp Hair and Beauty, bringing my creativity and expertise to a variety of projects. Makeup is not just my profession, it’s my true passion. My goal is to make every individual I work with feel con dent and radiant.

ESTELLE Beauty Therapist & Make-up Artist

I am passionate about helping people look and feel their best at any age. With over 15 years in the make-up and beauty industry and working for some of the top global cosmetic brands, I have created my own professional brand of skincare and MakeupVanity Beauty Co. Now stocking at Evelina Kemp Hair and Beauty.

LILIANA

Second Year Apprentice

I have worked with Evelina for the past 2 years! With my rst year starting to come to a close, I’m excited to start showing off my skills! Please feel free to book in with me for trims, extra spoiling with treatments etc and even a few foils here and there!! All with Evelina’s supervision and less than half price! I am now offering a solid haircut, wash and a blow dry for only $45!

HAIR & MAKEUP PACKAGE including a glass of bubbles and lots of fun

PORT MACQUARIE BLOW-DRY & MAKE-UP BAR

Now open Fridays and Saturdays

Our lives can be very busy, especially in the days leading up to the end of this year and the approach of Christmas.

But life can be busy anytime of the year, with daily demands, unexpected changes, and bumps in the road.

If you, or a loved one, friend, colleague or neighbour of yours is feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, scattered, tired, emotional …

Prioritising taking a pause to adjust and reset can be very effective in helping you and them to feel more grounded and calmer, before moving forward again.

THE PAUSE CAN BE A MOMENT TO: Adjust Reset Rest Slow Down Take a Breath Take a Break

It can be a time to identify what you are feeling and thinking, and then choose a thought or action to help you:

Shift your thoughts from the negative to the more positive, or to help you release tension. Maybe to help you slow your breathing down, or to help you take a break, hydrate and recharge, so that you are a more grounded and calmer you.

PRIORITISE TAKING A PAUSE

Calm

with BERNIE GINNANE Find Your focus contributor.

Counsellor / Meditation Facilitator / Spiritual Life Coach

PRIORITISE THE PAUSE

FIVE SUGGESTIONS THAT CAN HELP YOU PRACTICE YOUR PAUSE

1. PAUSE BRING FOCUS TO YOUR BREATHING.

With Your eyes open or closed. Inhale deeply.

As you exhale, slow your exhale down, extend the length of your exhale.

Repeat for 5-10 rounds of breath.

2. PAUSE

WHAT YOU ARE DOING/SAYING/THINKING PRACTICE THE 4 x 4 x 4 x 4

Breathing in for count of 4. Holding for a count of 4.

Breathing out for a count of 4.

Pausing for a count of 4.

Repeat 4 times.

3. PAUSE PRACTICE 5-4-3-2-1

Identify:

5 Things you can see.

4 Things you can feel.

3 Things you can hear.

2 Things you can smell.

1.Thing you can smell.

4. PAUSE

START COUNTING BACKWARDS FROM 100 – 1

5. PAUSE GO OUTSIDE.

TAKE YOURSELF ON A SHORT WALK AND APPRECIATE WHAT IS AROUND YOU. THIS MONTH ON MY PATREON PAGE the

Theme is: 30-DAY RESET CHALLENGE

Email me for details to join for the month of November.

I also have a GROUP MEDITATION, SOUND & REIKI HEALING SESSION

Saturday 23rd November 3pm – 4.30pm At the Rotary Hall, Hastings River Drive Port Macquarie.

Email me for more details.

HOW CLIENTS CAN WORK WITH ME Online sessions via Zoom most days. One-on-one sessions, Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9am onwards and some availability Monday and Thursdays 4-6pm at The Wellbeing Centre, Garden Crescent, Port Macquarie.

For Counselling, Meditation & Mindfulness, Intuitive Guidance, Numerology Readings, Sound and Reiki Healing

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL 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 facebook.com/bernieginnane /bernie_ginnane

deserve Little Smiles a treatment

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 teeth straightening 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.

TUP!Whiten

Start your Summer with a Brilliant Smile

ooth whitening is a popular dental technique to rejuvenate the colour of your teeth and brighten your smile. If you feel that your teeth have become dull and yellow after years of accumulated STAINING, why not consider professional tooth whitening with your dental team?

Having an attractive smile - whether Godgiven or courtesy of a highly skilled dental professional - is important for self-confidence. On the other hand, having grey, yellow or discoloured teeth could be enough to make someone too embarrassed to smile. Moreover, stained teeth can affect a person's overall self-image by negatively affecting their selfconfidence and their sense of self-worth.

Whiten UP: Tooth whitening removes internal stains through a process called oxidation. Unlike simple scaling or polishing, whitening removes superficial stains caused by coffee, tea, and red wine. The most common ingredient used for whitening teeth is peroxide gel (of varying strengths) and in some cases LED light.

At Sundial Dental we offer a take-home whitening kit for our patients that brings you the best of both worlds; the versatility of a

take-home kit, peroxide gel and an LED light that returns your smile to your whitest natural shade. This easy-to-use technology is, fast-acting, safe, rechargeable and incorporates peroxide and LED light. Our patients wear the trays as prescribed by our dental professionals for 10-20 minutes a day for up to 5 days, until they get their desired result. The all-new take-home kit requires only one appointment, to assess if the patient is suitable for the whitening treatment. After the initial assessment you will take your kit home, and you will be free to start your whitening from the very first day. (*It should be noted that if you have advanced restorative crowns and fillings, this treatment might not be right for you.)

Unlike simple scaling or polishing, whitening removes superficial stains caused by coffee, tea, and red wine.

The benefit of the take-home system is that YOU are in control of your whitening:  you choose the shade that YOU Like and can top up your whitening solution for $25-30. Other options are in-chair whitening which requires you to rebook and spend an hour in the dental

chair.   What Can You Expect? It is usually possible to achieve a shade that is three to eight shades lighter, taking years off your smile and making you look and feel younger in 3-5 days. An added advantage is that you can target specific teeth that are more stubborn or stained. If your teeth become sensitive during the treatment, you can give them a break and resume after a day or so; this side-effect is transient, and with care, causes minimal discomfort. The best bit is that you can expect a smile that looks years younger in just 3-5 days, so why not start your summer with a whiter, brighter smile?

For more information, ring the caring team at Sundial Dental 6583 3533 Wauchope 65858 2015 or Laurieton 6559 9276 and for a limited time enquire about our TakeHome Whitening Special for only $199.

Hearing The Shop

Take us through the list of services you offer your customers.

We offer full diagnostic hearing tests for adults and children over 5. We also offer hearing aid services for pensioners, Workcover NSW and VIC, as well as privately funded devices. We have the latest testing equipment, and we provide the best hearing technology at the best prices. This includes a free upgrade for pensioners to receive in the ear technology as our standard option at no additional charge, and upgrades into rechargeable hearing aids for as little as $475. It’s so nice to see the smiles when we are able to fit these superior options and the patients can hear the difference for themselves. You have locations in both Port Macquarie and Lakewood, how can our readers make an appointment?

Yes we do have two fantastic local sites where

we offer our services. To book an appointment you can go online at www.thehearingshop. com.au or alternatively you can call us on 02 6516 2217 and we can book you in over the phone.

One of your services is Assisted Listening Devices, can you tell us about these?

Yes. Assisted listening devices (ALDs) are really important for those who may not be ready, or not suitable for hearing aids, or for those who just need a little extra help. This can be anything from doorbells and fire alarms that use strobe light to alert the individual to headsets that can help with TV and other bluetooth devices. DVA clients are often eligible for financial help with these devices in addition to funding for hearing aids. You have an exciting offer for our readers over the next two months. Can you tell us what it is?

We do have a very exciting offer for our

patients in November and December. We have a free upgrade available for our state of the art hearing aids (selected models) that can save someone up $2,700. As an additional upgrade for the Focus readers we are happy to offer a special upgrade to a premium charger for the selected models at no extra cost (RRP $359), all they have to do is mention this article. We know the holiday season is almost upon us, and that is when we all get together for Christmas parties as well as family gatherings. Being a local family owned clinic, The Hearing Shop values these important interactions and with this offer we are really keen to help people who need it to hear more clearly, when it really matters!! Give us a call or book online today.

AGED CARE

Providing exceptional service and specialised care to the region’s aged care facilities for over 25 years. in servicing

24/7 on-call pharmacist for urgent after-hours requests Frequent deliveries to facilities Mon-Sat

Multiple state of the art robotic medication packing machines

Staff with decades of experience in aged care and medication reviews

Respite or permanent residents

Dedicated aged care space and team

YOUR AGED CARE Choice for

Flynn’s Beach Pharmacy has been providing products and services to our local aged care facilities for the past 25 years. We are now excited to be able to provide the missing link between medication supply and aged care facility staff by providing aged care onsite pharmacists.

Who is Flynn’s Beach Pharmacy? We are a locally owned and operated established small business with big family values. We serve and supply our loyal local community and passers-by as well as our aged care community. We are members of the Independent Pharmacies of Australia group which means we are still able to be competitive on pricing whilst continuing to provide personalised care for whatever your needs. By supporting IPA pharmacies, you contribute to a network of tailored healthcare across the country.

Our team of 8 pharmacists and support team of 13 staff serve our local community from our retail space and also make up our dedicated aged care team. This specialised team comprising of a pharmacist, aged care manager and support staff ensure all aged care facility requests are responded to promptly. We offer 2 daily weekday delivery runs as well as weekend deliveries and are the only pharmacy offering free after hours advice and assistance and emergency call outs to our facilities. Selecting the best support services for your loved ones has been made easy with many aged care facilities choosing our pharmacy as their preferred supplier.

Our pharmacists have decades of experience in aged care and medication reviews and have a close working relationship with all our facilities, attending regular meetings with the clinical teams. The medication packs we provide are

made from state of the art robotic medication packing machines before being given the seal of approval from our team of pharmacists.

What is the

Aged Care Onsite Pharmacist

Program? This initiative is part of a broader program designed to integrate pharmacists within residential aged care settings to improve medication management and enhance the overall health outcomes of residents. The ACOP program aims to place credentialed pharmacists within residential aged care facilities (RACFs) to ensure better medication use and safety. We have hand picked skilled pharmacists to embed them in the healthcare teams within RACFs to provide continuous, integrated pharmaceutical care. Benefits for Residents The integration of onsite pharmacists in aged care facilities offers several advantages. Improved Medication Safety: With pharmacists onsite, there’s a higher level of scrutiny on the use of medications, reducing the risks associated with polypharmacy and inappropriate prescribing. Enhanced Access to Healthcare: Residents have immediate access to professional advice about their medication, leading to quicker interventions and adjustments. Better Health Outcomes: Continuous monitoring and personalised care plans contribute to better overall health outcomes for residents. Educational Support: Pharmacists provide education to residents and staff about medication management, which is crucial for ensuring safety and adherence.

Laurieton Lakeside Aged Care Residence were the first facility to jump at the chance to have

our Pharmacists onsite, and we are now onsite at St Agnes Care and Lifestyle comprising of St Agnes Hostel, Mount Carmel, Maryknoll, Emmaus home and the newly opened Emmaus Village as well as Highfields Manor.

“I am delighted to share my positive experience with the Aged Care Onsite Pharmacy services at our aged care home. Sophie and the team have been an invaluable asset, providing exceptional medication management and oversight that ensures our residents safety. Their attention to detail and regular reviews have significantly improved the overall health and well-being of our residents. Additionally, the team has played a crucial role in vaccination efforts, ensuring that all residents are up to date with their immunisations. This proactive approach has not only enhanced the residents’ health but also created a safer environment for everyone in the home. Moreover, their expertise in antimicrobial stewardship has been vital in managing antibiotic use, preventing resistance, and promoting effective treatments. The pharmacist’s oversight in this area has greatly contributed to our commitment to high-quality care. I wholeheartedly recommend the pharmacy services for their professionalism, dedication, and positive impact on our aged care community.”

Colleen Banks the Residential Service Manager at St Agnes’ Site Residential Care

Celebrating OVER 5 YEARS OF EXCEPTIONAL SUPPORT NDIS

As our community navigates the complexities of disability support, Support Services For You has proudly stood as a beacon of reliability and compassion for the past five years. Family owned and locally operated, we have built our business on the foundations of trust, dedication, and a deeply ingrained commitment to the individuals we serve.

TRANSFORMING LIVES: A NEW CHAPTER FOR OUR BUSINESS

As we step into a new era at Support Services For You, we are thrilled to introduce our new co-owner, Tegan Wright, the daughter of our beloved founder, Alison Williams. With a dynamic background in project management, communications, and offender transformation, Tegan brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to our organisation.

While Tegan won’t be working on-site directly, she will be actively involved in our community events, and you can expect to see her face from time to time! Her commitment to empowering individuals aligns perfectly with our mission and vision, and we’re excited about the positive impact she will bring to our community. A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

At Support Services For You, our mission is simple: to provide high-quality support that empowers individuals with disabilities to live their best lives. Over the years, we

have established a reputation for excellence, which is reflected in our high client and staff retention rates. We believe that continuity is key to effective support, and our clients often express how valued they feel when they are supported by familiar faces who understand their unique needs.

WHY WE STAND OUT

1. Local Ownership and Passion: Being locally owned means we understand our community's nuances and needs. Our team is not just a group of employees; we are your neighbours, friends, and advocates. This connection drives us to deliver personalised services that truly reflect the needs of our clients.

2. Exceptional Staff Retention:

Our staff is our greatest asset. We invest in hiring passionate professionals who share our values of empathy, integrity, and respect. By fostering a positive work environment and providing ongoing training, we are able to retain a committed team that helps clients achieve their goals.

3. Community-Centric Approach: For us, supporting our clients goes beyond business;

it’s about building relationships. We actively engage with our community through workshops, events, and collaborations with local organisations. This approach enables us to gather invaluable feedback and continuously improve our services.

EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS AHEAD

We’re thrilled to announce some innovative programs designed to enhance the quality of life for our clients and the broader community:

1. Available Now - Counselling and Psychological Recovery Support

We are pleased to inform you that we now offer counselling and psychosocial recovery supports aimed at improving relationships and social skills. These services are available through face-to-face meetings, telephone, or Zoom/video calls. Additionally, we provide advocacy and child and family welfare support to further assist our community.

2. Coming Soon - Ground Crew Services, Not just NDIS

We’re excited to share that our newly established ground crew will soon be launching specialised house and yard

maintenance, modifications and handyman services. These services are open not only to NDIS clients but also to the general public. Our team is committed to helping everyone maintain safe and welcoming outdoor environments. Whether it’s mowing lawns, pruning shrubs, or creating accessible pathways, our ground crew will ensure that outdoor spaces are functional and enjoyable for all.

3. Coming Soon - Lifestyle Crew Support, Not just NDIS

In addition to our outdoor services, we recognise the challenges of managing a household. Our lifestyle crew will soon be available to assist not just NDIS clients, but also members of the general public. This friendly team is dedicated to providing practical support with tasks such as cleaning, tidying living spaces, organising essential items, and creating a more manageable home environment tailored to individual needs.

We are currently taking expressions of interest for both the ground crew and lifestyle crew services, so please reach out to

EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY

our friendly team if you’re interested!

4. Upcoming Community Events

We are excited to announce some upcoming community fundraising initiatives, including a clothing pool, book exchange, and a special fundraiser for the women’s refuge featuring an exhibition of our clients' artwork. These events will help us support those in need while showcasing the incredible talent within our community.

5. Art Splash Programs

In addition to these fundraisers, we continue to run our successful Art Splash programs, and we have more client and communitybased programs on the horizon that we can’t wait to share with you!

Don't forget, we offer FREE and friendly consultations for everyone, and as a reminder, a Justice of the Peace (JP) is available in the office most days as part of our community service.

A COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY

At the heart of our mission is our commitment to the community. We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

With our wonderful team at the helm, we are excited to build on our legacy and explore new avenues to support our clients.

As we move forward, we invite you to join us on this journey. Your ongoing support enables us to make meaningful changes in the lives of those we serve. Together, we can create an inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives.

Thank you for being a vital part of our story, and here’s to embracing the future together! For more information about our expanding services or to become part of our community, please reach out to us at Support Services For You.

Shop 2, 17 Short Street, Port Macquarie.  02 6583 8966

www.supportservicesforyou.com.au

You may have seen our cars driving around town, but not know what we do! Linked Community Services are a not-for-profit transport provider committed to keeping our clients connected to their community. We offer individual transport, shopping shuttles and fun social outings. Connection is so important. Studies show that older people who have social connection experience many mental, emotional and physical health benefits, including a sense of belonging, which has positive impacts on health,

wellness and quality of life. That’s why the main purpose of Linked Community Services is to assist our clients to maintain connection and independence.

Thanks to government subsidised funding we are able to provide lower cost transport services to eligible individuals. Whether it’s taking you to an appointment, to visit friends or on one of our social outings – we are here to take you there!

Linked Community Services is also the auspicing organisation for the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS). The ACVVS program

is funded by the Australian Government. It is free and available to anyone who is a permanent resident in a residential aged care facility or receiving a home care package, including those who are approved and waitlisted to receive either service. Those receiving a visit are referred to as “Care Recipients” and the visitors are all volunteers. Each volunteer visitor is carefully matched to a care recipient who has similar interests and hobbies, and build a long-term friendship through weekly or fortnightly visits. The focus is on friendship and enjoyment, and activities may include a walk in the garden, reading together, listening to music, watching a movie, an outing to the beach, playing a game or doing a jigsaw. The program has huge benefits for both the care recipient and the volunteer providing valuable opportunities for connection.

Serviced Apartments at The Governor’s Retirement Resort

If you’re seeking independent living with the convenience of evening meals, weekly cleaning and linen service, a serviced apartment at The Governor’s Retirement Resort could be your ideal choice.

Each one-bedroom apartment features a comfortable living area, kitchenette, bedroom with ensuite, and laundry facilities, all designed to enhance your lifestyle. Making the move to retirement living means gaining freedom from the burdens of home maintenance, finding new social connections, and pursuing passions.

Experience Real Wellbeing with Australian Unity, where real independence is redefined.

To find out more about our Retirement Resort or to book a tour, please contact 1300 149 290 or thegovernors@australianunity.com.au

SUPPORT LOCAL wh a Di erence

Let’s chat with Melissa Walker, Livable’s Team Leader – NDIS & Aged Care Services based in Port Macquarie

Tell us about Livable. Livable is a registered and accredited notfor-profit provider specialising in delivering NDIS, aged care and family services. We have been operating in the Clarence Valley for over 30 years and have expanded into the Mid-North Coast, with offices in Coffs Harbour and more recently in Port Macquarie. What NDIS support services do you provide? We offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help community members living with a disability achieve their personal goals. These include assistance with daily tasks, support coordination, supported independent living, socialisation, school leavers employment

services and plan management.

How do you support seniors? Our goal is to assist seniors to live independently in their own homes for longer. Whether it's providing a little support with everyday tasks like meal preparation, light cleaning and laundry or assisting with personal care and transportation to appointments, we're here to make life easier.

As a registered Home Care Package provider, we assign each participant a dedicated Home Care Support Coordinator, who regularly checks in to ensure that their services meet evolving needs.

CARE TO COMPARE

One of our participants shared, “Livable has changed our lives. They listen to us and get the help we need. It’s peace of mind knowing we’re leaning on people who care about us.”

What do you think makes the Port Macquarie team successful? Our success lies in matching lifestyle support workers with participants based on personality and the specific skills needed to help them achieve their goals. We love seeing our participants thrive and live their best lives.

Thanks Melissa.

Discover The Headland

Glenfern’s Newest Display Home

* Join us on Saturday, 30 November from 10:00am - 2:00pm 19 Glenfern Ave, Thrumster NSW

You’re invited to the opening of our brand new, fully furnished display home, The Headland

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to exploreGlenfern’s stunning new display home - The Headland, along with our five other display homes.

Learn all you need to know about land lease living and enjoy light refreshments with your future neighbours.

Now Selling from * Price correct at time of print $660,000

YOUR NEW LIFESTYLE AWAITS

Glenfern at

If you’re seeking a relaxing and private lifestyle set amongst nature, look no further than the stunning Glenfern community in Port Macquarie.

GLENFERN OPEN DAY

Come and see for yourself at the upcoming Glenfern Open Day from 10am until 2pm on Saturday 30 November 2024. Take a walk through the fully furnished The Headlands designs, along with four additional home displays, discover the range of amenities, enjoy light refreshments, and learn all you need to know about land lease living. Register your interest or book a private appointment by contacting Cathy Snook, Sales Associate on (02) 9055 6850 or glenfernsales@ hometownaustralia.com.au

Nestled amongst the peaceful bushland in Thrumster, a hidden gem in the Port Macquarie region, Glenfern provides exceptional over 50s living for those looking to downsize or retire. Not to be mistaken as a resort, Glenfern hosts a range of amenities including a modern clubhouse, 25m lap pool, spa and gymnasium, and bowling green. Not to mention the buzzing social calendar making it easy to establish new friendships in your next chapter of life.

Enjoy your time swimming laps in the pool, a day on the bowling green or meet up with your neighbours for a friendly game of tennis! If you’re looking for your dose of nature, there are many natural surrounds to be explored including the beautiful beaches throughout the Port Macquarie region waiting to be discovered.

Discover the Range of Modern and Affordable Homes at Glenfern Fall in love with the range of beautiful modern

homes that have been designed specifically for the different stages of the downsizing journey. Designs offer a low maintenance lifestyle without compromising on space or luxury and include modern kitchens with high quality appliances and finishes, spacious master bedrooms with walk-in robes and ensuites, guest bedrooms, and private outdoor alfresco areas. Enjoy bright and stylish designs including soaring ceilings and windows to promote nature breezes.

Glenfern is excited to announce the release of the highly anticipated design, The Headland. The two-level home with internal lift is a great design for those looking for a modern and bright interior with plenty of space to host guests. Enjoy the open plan kitchen, living and dining with a spacious alfresco area positioned in the middle of the home - perfect for entertaining. Retreat to the second level to the spacious master bedroom with walk-in robe and ensuite, and complete with a private balcony with views over the bushland. Enjoy the option of hosting guests with the second bedroom and additional study nook.

Will I Pay More for Aged Care?

Changes to aged care fees are coming, and they will impact both home care and residential care.

A er a long wait and lots of speculation, the government has released details of the proposed changes.

While some people will see their fees increase, the good news is that aged care remains heavily subsidised, and fees will continue to be based on your financial situation to help with affordability.

Here’s what we know so far:

• The government will continue to cover 73% of the cost of residential care and 89% of the cost of home care.

• These changes are designed to improve the quality of aged care and help providers meet growing demand.

• Most changes will only apply to people starting home care or entering residential care from 1 July 2025.

If you or a loved one need care soon, it might be worth getting advice to see if moving before the changes take effect could save you money and understand how you will be affected. While there’s still a lot to unpack, here’s a quick overview of

what’s planned.

Proposed residential care changes

1. Room price cap: From 1 January 2025, some room prices might start to rise. Providers who want to charge more than $550,000 currently need approval, but this cap will increase to $750,000, making it easier for providers to increase prices.

2. RAD retention amount: You can pay for your room with a lump sum (Refundable Accommodation Deposit or RAD) or as a daily fee. Currently, RADs are fully refundable when you leave care, but from 1 July 2025, you may lose up to 10% of the RAD you paid.

the amount could increase as time goes on.

4. Living expenses: Your contribution to daily expenses like food, laundry, and electricity could rise by up to $12.55 per day, depending on your financial situation. Some providers may charge more for higher standards or quality, so it’s important to check prices before deciding on a place to live.

Depending on your finances, you may be asked to contribute more to your care costs, which could include services like entertainment, bathing, and mobility assistance.

3. Indexing rent: If you choose to pay a daily fee instead of a lump sum, this "rent" (called the Daily Accommodation Payment or DAP) will be indexed over time, meaning

5. Care expenses: Depending on your finances, you may be asked to contribute more to your care costs, which could include services like entertainment, bathing, and mobility assistance. The government will still cover most care costs, but your portion could go up by around $10 per day, with the lifetime cap rising from approximately $80,000 to $130,000.

6. Assessment of your home: No changes are planned for how your home is assessed when determining what you can afford to pay. If a spouse or “protected person” lives there, it remains exempt; otherwise, only approximately $208,000 of its value (indexed) will be included in financial assessments.

Proposed home care changes

1. New Support at Home program: A new program will combine the current home care options into 10 levels of care packages to better meet the specific needs of individuals.

government (up to the available budget of your care package), you may have to pay more for services like cleaning and gardening.

3. Means-testing: Your contributions to home care will now become means-tested, picking up assets as well as income, according to Centrelink rules.

e higher costs will mostly impact selffunded retirees and some partpensioners but everyone could face higher costs.

2. Higher contribution fees: While clinical care will be fully covered by the

The higher costs will mostly impact self-funded retirees and some partpensioners but everyone could face higher costs (and bigger decisions), making it essential to carefully choose care providers and understand accommodation costs. The changes may simplify some of the confusion we’ve seen under the current system, but now, more

than ever, it’s important to get advice to understand what you'll need to pay and how these fees might change as your financial situation evolves.

Planning ahead is key, and some decisions can feel overwhelming. This is where I can help as an Accredited Aged Care ProfessionalTM. I can provide advice to help you stay focused on the important issues and filter out the “noise”.

If you want to talk through your options or find out more information for your situation, call my office on 0431 414 799 to find out how I might help.

This advice is general in nature and everyone’s circumstances are different. So it’s important to speak to someone like myself who is a licenced financial adviser (I am an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232).

WELCOME TO CANDIA CARE & SUPPORT

Our mission as a community-focussed support provider, is to promote the inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities, mental health and day-to-day challenges.

We are committed to providing high-quality compassionate services that address the unique needs of each individual we serve with honesty & integrity.

Our team comprises compassionate and highly

skilled professionals, dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of our participants.

We understand each person’s unique challenges and needs and are committed to providing exceptional care and support.

At Candia Care & Support, we are committed to providing top-quality care and support tailored to each individual.

OUR SERVICES

We offer a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the diverse need of our community and have capacity for new participants now. We have disability support workers available for personal care, social & community access, respite care, nursing, house and yard assistance, transport, training & employment and Support Coordination.

We take pride in delivering person-centred care that respects each individual’s unique goals, preferences, and abilities.

Our team works closely with clients to develop customised plans that meet their specific needs and foster personal growth.

CONTACT CANDIA CARE & SUPPORT

Phone: 02 5572 9400

Address: Shop 1, 109 William St, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Email: admin@candiacare.com.au

OUR VALUES

We strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and included. Our services are designed to promote independence, social connectedness, and a sense of purpose while also fostering a culture of inclusion and respect for all.

OUR TEAM

What sets our team apart is our genuine passion for what we do. We believe in every individual’s inherent value and potential and work tirelessly to empower them to lead fulfilling lives. We foster a culture of respect, inclusion, and dignity, promoting independence and self-advocacy for all those we serve.

Explore

Tailored

Supported independent living

Assistance with personal care

Assistance with daily life

Psychosocial support

Short term accommodation

Social & community participation

Travel supports

hoice and

Connection

AT BETHANY AGED CARE CENTRE

Bethany Aged Care Centre (Bethany), run by e Salvation Army Aged Care, has been dedicated to supporting older Australians in Port Macquarie for over 40 years.

Louise Gallagher, Centre Manager of Bethany, explains that delivering care in line with their residents’ wishes and care needs is at the heart of everything at the Centre.

“It’s very much about consultative decision making,” says Louise. “We try to make this like a home where you can choose how you want to have your care and when you want to have your care. This also applies to nutrition, activities, and everything else.”

“Our Lifestyle team always consults with the residents about what they want on their activity calendar,” Louise explains. “When a resident

first comes into Bethany, we do a nutrition profile, so they can tell us how they like to have their meal.”

New residents also share details about their background, family, interests and more through a ‘Key2Me’ process, helping the team to get to know them better.

An experienced chef cooks all meals at the Centre fresh each day. While there are set menus each week, alternatives are available to ensure that residents can eat what they wish.

“As we get to know the residents, what they like, and what they can and can’t have, we can

offer alternatives and adjust the meals to their liking,” says David, Chef Manager at Bethany. “For example, if we’re cooking crumbed fish, we can offer steamed fish if this is preferred by a resident. We were working on our ‘takeaway day’ dish when I decided to try something different and created our very own fried chicken, Bethany Fried Chicken (BFC), which the residents absolutely love. It’s one of the most popular things on our menu,” says David. “It’s very important to work towards emulating the lifestyles and how it was for residents at home prior to coming into aged care as much as possible,” Louise affirms.

and service in Port Macquarie trust

At Bethany Aged Care Centre, our commitment to care ensures you thrive in a community built for your comfort and wellbeing. Bethany offers a range of affordable room options, expert clinical care, gourmet meals, resident-directed lifestyle activities and spiritual support.

Carers, family and friends are always welcome in our family.

To start your journey, call 1300 111 227 or visit agedcare.salvos.org.au to learn more.

From Cattle to Corporations: Why Every Business Needs a Strong Brand in a Fenceless World

Branding isn’t just for trendy consumer products - it’s for every business, organisation, or institution that provides something of value. Whether you’re a bank handling mortgages, a not-for-profit changing lives, or a school shaping the next generation, your brand matters. Just like cattle ranchers in the old days branded their livestock to claim ownership, (because cows tended to wander and that’s how the term ‘brand’ came about), businesses today need to create strong, recognisable brands to avoid getting lost in the shuffle of a global marketplace without fences.

Marketing guru, Godin, said, “A brand is the set of expectations, memories, stories, and relationships, that taken together, account for a consumer’s decision to choose one product or service over another”. It’s not just about recognition - it’s about trust, connection, and delivering value. In a world where consumers have infinite choices, your brand is what sets you apart, helping customers, donors, or clients decide that you’re the one they can count on.

A Fenceless Marketplace Means Everyone’s Competing

Thanks to the internet, borders are meaningless. Today’s customers, donors, and clients can find products, services, or causes anywhere - so you’re no longer just competing with your neighbour down the street; you’re competing with everyone. Whether you’re a financial firm in

Sydney, a non-profit in Wauchope, or a university in California, your brand must cut through the noise. Without a distinct identity, your organisation risks being just another player in the global (and local) herd.

A brand isn’t just a logo or tagline - it’s a promise. And that promise needs to be reflected in every interaction, whether it’s on your website, at an event, or in a social media post. It tells your audience, “We’ve got your back. You’re in the right place”

Content Marketing: Your Brand’s Personal Megaphone

Content marketing is your brand’s best friend. It’s what helps you tell your story, showcase your expertise, and connect with your audience in a meaningful way. Godin points out that “Marketing is no longer about the stuff you make, but about the stories you tell”. Whether you’re posting financial advice on your blog, sharing testimonials from students, or running campaigns for a cause, content marketing helps your brand engage and build trust.

A well-thought-out content strategy creates touchpoints where people interact with your brand - not just with your product or service, but with your mission and values. This turns passive browsers into loyal customers, fans or supporters who are eager to engage, donate, enrol, or buy. Why Branding is Vital for Every Industry It doesn’t matter whether you sell products,

offer services, or promote causes - everything is a brand. Financial institutions need to build trust to attract clients; educational institutions compete not only on academics but also on the experiences they promise and non-profits need to tell a compelling story to inspire donors in a field of worthy causes. In each case, branding helps organisations stand out, foster loyalty, and inspire action.

As Godin advises, businesses need to become "Purple Cows" - offering something remarkable and memorable in a field full of competitors W ithout a strong brand, your service or mission risks blending into the endless options that consumers are constantly scrolling through.

Wrapping It Up

In today’s global market, building a brand is like branding cattle in the old days - it keeps your business from wandering off and becoming just another face in the herd. Without a clear, strong identity, your organisation might get lost among the countless competitors roaming the marketplace. A strong brand ensures that, whether you're running a bank, university, or non-profit, your organisation "moos" louder and more distinctively.

Just like ranchers needed their brand to claim ownership and value, businesses today need their brand to signal trust and meaning, and in a world without fences, the most successful brands aren’t just noticed - they’re remembered.

THRUMSTER BUSINESS PARK

TREVOR GROENEVELD

Hi Trevor. Can you share the vision behind Thrumster Business Park and what the inspiration for creating this innovative business community was?

The vision is to create an urban village where businesses can thrive and are fully integrated into the fabric of the Thrumster area as this community evolves.

Sustainability is a key focus of the park. Can you tell us more about the ecofriendly initiatives you've implemented?

We are pursuing several sustainability measures, such as incorporating renewable energy solutions into our infrastructure with things such as solar and stored energy with batteries. This helps us minimise our carbon footprint and promote the use of clean energy. It also helps owners and tenants meet their 2050 carbon commitments.

How does Thrumster Business Park contribute to the local economy, particularly in terms of job creation and

attracting diverse industries?

The development will drive substantial economic growth, facilitate housing and economic diversification, boost innovation and employment. This dynamic local service hub will not only enhance the range of dwelling types available but also foster a 24/7 live-work environment where residential, commercial, manufacturing, and recreational activities integrate seamlessly.

We have recently carried out economic modelling as part of our rezoning application which shows the development will generate around $82 million in local expenditure every year, will support around 175 temporary construction jobs and create 330 new jobs in the business park.

What types of businesses have already joined the community, and what industries are you hoping to attract in the future?

Some examples are medical services, an indoor swim school, an early learning centre, fitness centre, various building companies and suppliers, a caravan service centre, a charity

Trevor Groeneveld has been involved in the planning of the rumster Business Park, a new sustainable urban village that combines business and residential space in the thriving rumster/Sovereign Hills area.

organisation focused on homelessness, an alternative medicine manufacturer, as well as commercial units and storage.

We hope to include a tavern site and serviced apartments to provide accommodation for essential workers and students located in the health and education precinct and business incubator. However, we don’t want to ignore the importance of providing space for the industries and businesses that support the booming housing industry.

How do you see the business park evolving over the next five to ten years?

With the amount of planning that has gone into this so far, I feel we already have a clear vision of what the next 5-10 years looks like which we have been very openly communicating to the community.

The short-term challenges are more around obtaining the necessary approvals and ensuring the surrounding infrastructure is in place to meet the demand of this rapidly growing area. When we think about the Sovereign Place Town Centre, only a few years ago the car park was almost empty, and now

you sometimes struggle to find a park there and the place is bustling. With Thrumster being one of the 2 largest forecast growth areas in the region, I see the business park being a hive of activity in coming years and it’s exciting to be a part of helping shape the development now. To be honest, I can't wait to see how it looks 5 years from now and by then I expect it to be fully developed. In terms of infrastructure, what features or amenities make the park attractive for both small businesses and larger industrial operations?

We hope to include a tavern site and serviced apartments to provide accommodation for essential workers and students located in the health and education precinct...

The business park is in some respects a bit of a boutique development. While we are close to the highway and the CBD, it isn’t a development that’s targeting bulky goods warehousing, or major transport businesses. While we are talking with some larger businesses we really want to cater for the local business community as well as attract new businesses to the region. For people living in the area who can get employment in the estate it will mean not having to deal with the congestion which has become a reality for anyone trying to get into town.

The estate has ample power supply, data, water supply etc. A good example of the attention to detail in this estate is lot design. Even though it was expensive in terms of the bulk earthworks, the estate was designed to ensure every block of land falls towards a road so that buildings can potentially be built right to the boundary on the side and rear of every lot. The only easements or setbacks that need to be allowed for are on the actual street frontages.

We are committed to providing an active transport network that allows people to commute to work without the need for a car by providing footpaths and cycleways. This is a great initiative because apart from the health benefits of an active transport lifestyle it takes cars off the road, reducing fossil fuel emissions and traffic congestion.

We have identified a route and done some preliminary concept plans which we have shared with council that will allow connection from our development into the health and education precinct, connecting to the Googik walking trail. There are even options to connect west to Sovereign Place shopping centre and north to the airport. We have strong support from the business community as well as state and federal government for this initiative. We have been in discussions with council now for some time and it seems like we may be making some progress.

Can you explain how the layout and design of the park foster collaboration and community among the businesses operating there, and what steps did your team take to ensure that the park integrates smoothly with the adjacent residential areas?

We have engaged specialist placemakers, traffic experts, economic modelling consultants, architects, engineers, town planners and more. Their inputs have all been incorporated into the estate masterplan. We are actively engaged with council at many levels but specifically their strategic planning and economic development teams to understand the demands and align with council’s objectives. We work closely

with Business Port Macquarie, Business NSW, Regional Development Australia as well as the local business community to ensure this development aligns with current and emerging demand. We want to be considerate, responsible and foster a strong sense of community among the businesses and residents of the Thrumster/Sovereign Hills area.

With a wide variety of permitted land use, we aren't just building a business park; we’re creating a thriving community where everyone can live, work and prosper together. It’s exciting to see it all coming together!

What advice would you give to businesses considering setting up in Thrumster Business Park, particularly in terms of the opportunities and benefits they can expect?

We have enough certainty around so much of the development now that we can talk with anyone interested in relocating their current business or considering investing in the estate. I would say that with the estate almost completely sold out anyone wanting to buy a block in the estate should move now. Out of the 63 lots in the estate, I think there are around 10 left and we are in negotiations now on more than half of the remaining stock. Where can we find out more or get in touch?

You can find out more and get in touch by visiting our website at thrumsterbusinesspark.com.au

David Hearle

Home Lending Specialist 0436 682 485

David.Hearle@cba.com.au

Kay Dunham

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As I write this, Executive Officer Malcolm Neale and myself are heading to Sydney for the Business NSW State Business Awards where we are finalists in Chamber of the Year. We will keep you posted with more details next month. Business Port Macquarie is an active and engaged organisation, supporting local businesses with a wide variety of events and initiatives aimed at fostering growth, collaboration, and community development. On November 1st we play golf for our annual Golf Day supporting Westpac Helicopter. This is a service that you hope you will never need but are very thankful for if you do. This recently hit home when one of our board members suffered a medical emergency and had to be airlifted to John Hunter hospital. His family as well as our board were very grateful for the service that was provided and I can report that Peter is doing well. Please think of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter when you are considering who to support with your donations.

6th November is our next Coffee with Mal at The Corner, Clarence Street proudly sponsored by Macquarie Waters. This gathering allows local business owners and professionals to connect, discuss upcoming events, and explore membership benefits. It's an excellent way for new members to get involved and engage with the community in a relaxed setting, especially for those that aren’t comfortable with big crowds but who like to keep updated with what

is happening in business in the area.

On 6th of November we are working with Nautilus School to conduct a careers day. This helps the students discover information and exposure to different occupation paths and what they need to concentrate on with their studies to achieve this. It shows students that anything is possible if you are prepared to do the hard yards and work your way up. It also assists business in ensuring that staff of the future are prepared and meeting the needs of the company.

These events and initiatives reflect Business Port Macquarie's commitment to supporting the local business community through education, networking, and celebrating excellence. Their efforts in organising diverse events ensure that both large and small businesses have opportunities to grow, connect, and contribute to the region's vibrant economy.

Our October event was sponsored by Gold Sponsor, Integer IT. Speakers raised awareness of online security threats and educating businesses on how to protect themselves. Since the event, Gary of Integer IT has sent a message “I very much appreciate your efforts and especially how it all came together. It’s great to have other organisations helping us get the message across and the phone has been hot since 10am, so lots to continue to do”. If you would like more information, give Gary a call - 6581 7500.

Following the cyber security event, Business Port Macquarie hosted its annual AGM. I would like to offer a very warm welcome to our three

new board members; Michelle Love from Love Projects, Justin Levido from Levido Law and Kate Wood-Foye, Community Engagement Officer from Charles Sturt University to the Board. They bring with them years of business experience to strengthen our board and member offers of Business Port Macquarie. At the AGM we also said farewell to Tony Thorne who has served 14 years on the board, Kieran Dell from Majestic Cinemas has served 4 years and Peter Buckland who is a Life Member and previously served many years on the board before relocating interstate. On his return he rejoined the board a year ago. Thank you, gentleman, for your wisdom, support and ideas over the years.

We have been busy ensuring that the year finishes and the new year starts with a BANG and we will again be having fireworks over the Hastings River thanks to our major sponsor Eire Constructions; a community grant from Hastings Council; plus sponsorship support from Sails by Rydges, Beachhouse, Rydges, Mid Pacific Motel & The Westport Club. Thank you to All Occasion Pyrotechnic who always do a fantastic job with a 9pm and midnight show.

We have also started preparing for next years local Business Awards with our launch in February. If you would like to be a sponsor, on what promises to be a HUGE night, please contact Malcolm at executive@businesspmq. com.au. Register for any of our upcoming events at www.businessportmacquarie.com.au

Until next month remember, keep smiling, people wonder what you have been up to!

EDUCATION UPDATE

REGIONAL SERVICE LEADER CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OFFICE, HASTINGS REGION with STEPHEN PARES

BUILDING RESILIENCE IN CHILDREN: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS AND CARERS OF KINDERGARTEN AND YEAR 7 STARTERS IN 2025

Starting school, whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or transitioning to high school, can be an exciting but challenging experience for children and parents alike. One key skill that can help your child adapt to these changes is resilience - the ability to bounce back from difficulties and cope with life’s ups and downs. As the Australian Resilience Centre emphasises, “resilience is not just about bouncing back, it’s about growing through life’s challenges,” requiring strategies to help children develop flexibility and grow stronger over time.

The 7 Cs of resilience, developed by Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg, a paediatrician and Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, provide a practical framework for parents. These include competence (developing skills), confidence (celebrating progress), connection (building strong relationships), character (encouraging kindness), contribution (involving children in meaningful activities), coping (teaching stressmanagement strategies), and control (helping children feel empowered in their choices).

For example, teaching a Year 7 student how to handle setbacks independently - such as managing homework deadlines - can build both competence and confidence.

Recent research from Associate Professor Justine M. Gatt, a leading resilience expert at NeuRA and the Black Dog Institute, emphasises

that resilience is closely linked to psychological well-being. Her work reveals that resilience not only helps children recover from setbacks but also builds positive mental health over time. Gatt’s studies on emotional regulation highlight that children who learn to manage stress early develop better emotional stability and perform better academically and socially in the long term. These findings align with those from Catholic Schools NSW, which emphasise that resilience promotes personal and academic success by helping children cope with school routines, social interactions, and academic pressures.

Parents play a critical role in shaping their child’s resilience. Gatt’s research also explores how parental behaviour influences emotional development. Modelling calm and constructive responses to challenges helps children feel more secure and teaches them effective coping mechanisms. According to the Harvard Health Blog, one effective way to foster resilience is to normalise mistakes - reminding children that setbacks are part of the learning process, not failures. Parents can demonstrate resilience by managing stress thoughtfully and encouraging children to problem-solve independently. Fostering meaningful connections with family, teachers, and friends also strengthens emotional security. As Catholic Schools NSW notes, children thrive when they feel connected to supportive relationships within

their school community. Encouraging character and contribution further promotes resilience, as children learn to be kind, empathetic, and involved in meaningful activities. Small acts, such as helping a classmate or volunteering, nurture a sense of belonging and self-worth. Building resilience is not a one-time task but an ongoing process that equips children for future challenges. As the Australian Resilience Centre notes, children who develop resilience early in life are better prepared to thrive in relationships, careers, and other areas of adulthood. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or Year 7, focusing on the 7 Cs, nurturing strong relationships, and practicing healthy coping strategies will empower them to face life’s challenges with confidence.

As the festive season approaches, it’s also essential for parents and carers to manage their own stress. Research shows that children pick up on adult emotions, and staying calm helps them feel more secure. Taking time for yourself and seeking support when needed models healthy behaviour and teaches children the importance of self-care. As Gatt’s research highlights, emotional well-being starts with learning how to manage stress effectivelyboth for children and the adults who care for them. When parents take care of themselves, they create an environment where children can thrive emotionally and grow into resilient, welladjusted individuals.

Illuminate

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

THE GUTS, GRIT AND GROUNDWORK OF REMARKABLE REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURS, INNOVATORS, LEADERS AND GAME CHANGERS.

Zoe VAN MILL

Zoe Van Mill is no stranger to creating successful micro businesses in both the web (XYZ Support) and education space (Math Mage) in Port Macquarie. She has a heart for community and gives back as one of the OG members of Luminosity Youth Summit. Zoe has now gone on to conquer the RV world as Managing Director of Flat Out International, with her head o ce right here in Port Macquarie using her signature blend of technical and quirky entrepreneurial creativity.

Zoe, what inspired the design of the business and range of products, and what sets you apart from other lines on the market?

Flat Out was founded in 2001 by my family members, Peter and Lenie. After extensive motorhome travel, they were frustrated with the conventional hose and cable connections available, so they invented their own solution. The Flat Out Multi-Reel and lay-flat hose system is a stackable cable/ hose reel designed to keep everything tidy, protected, self-draining, and tanglefree. While the products themselves are a fabulous design, what truly sets us apart is our company story and unwavering focus on customer service. It's a combination of great products and strong values that make us stand out.

What were the key ingredients to realising the Flat Out vision, and when did you know it had truly come to life?

When Lenie retired in 2018, I stepped in as Managing Director. Transitioning from a service-based business to a product-based one was a learning curve, but many of my skills transferred over beautifully. Taking over a family legacy is both a privilege and a responsibility, I certainly didn’t want to mess it up! We started by making gradual changes, streamlining systems, improving manufacturing, and strengthening relationships with key partners.

My initial focus was on ensuring we had a product I could fully trust, so I didn’t advertise at all in my first year. Over time, my vision for Flat Out evolved. At first, it was about making the best products in our space; then it became about becoming a household name in the RV world. Now, it’s about expanding into new markets.

I’ve always believed that business is about people first. Whether it involves our customers, trade partners, or team members, if an idea isn’t mutually beneficial, it gets

scrapped. As a result, we have a wonderful team, fantastic industry support, and an incredibly loyal customer base. I began to feel our vision truly coming to life when people started to phone us with the sole purpose of expressing how much they loved our products, or when they’d come to caravan shows (wearing our merchandise!) just to visit us and buy direct.

What has been the most surprising element of being in business?

This is a bit of a tricky question for me, as I’ve been self-employed since I was 21. It’s all I know! Without a clear benchmark to compare it to, either nothing surprises me, or everything does.

As both a creative and analytical mind, do you subscribe to a firm business plan or follow your gut instinct?

Gut instinct all the way! I do have a plan, but I’m practical enough to know that things rarely go exactly as expected. I focus on intentions and goals rather than rigid targets. In my

experience, a passionate team generates better results than one focused solely on KPIs. I truly enjoy spending time with my team, and their enthusiasm is infectious. This excitement translates into our customer interactions, creating a sense of belonging to the Flat Out family. What has been your greatest achievement in your business journey so far? Conversely, what has been your greatest challenge?

I felt our vision truly coming to life when we first saw people show up at caravan shows wearing our merchandise.

Our greatest achievement is the overwhelming support and appreciation from our customers. We receive as many compliments for our service as we do for our products, which is something I’m incredibly proud of. It’s also heartwarming when loyal customers defend us in online comments before we even get a chance to respond! Challenges have evolved over time. In the service industry, it was about managing expectations. Now, in the product space, it’s often about quality control. However, my greatest challenge has always been balancing

life and business - making sure I have the headspace to be a good mum and daughter at the end of the day. Fortunately, I’ve been able to involve my family in the business. My Dad has been an invaluable support as our local engineer, and he’s attended RV expos with me. My Mum has contributed artwork and even modelled for promotional work, and my son earns pocket money by doing product demonstration videos. (Cuteness sells people! haha)

How important has it been to have the support of your team and the Blueprint community in building the Flat Out tribe?

I’ve been part of Business Blueprint for nearly a year now, and it’s been a game changer. Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, you realise there’s always more to learn. We’ve had some great courses on AI and improving business systems, which have been incredibly powerful. AI hasn’t replaced anyone, but it has sped up what we already do. For example, it’s fantastic for writing

web code. It’s actually helped us grow, and as a result, we’ve expanded our team to meet increasing demand. The Blueprint community has been invaluable in boosting my confidence. Some decisions required a leap of faith, and having peers to discuss risks with was instrumental in making those commitments. The community has been as important as the courses themselves, providing support and wisdom.

What can we expect next from Flat Out as you extend your international presence?

Exactly that - an extended international presence! Over the last two years, we’ve been establishing a sister company in the USA, and our first shipment of seed stock just arrived with my business partner in Connecticut. We’re starting by exporting the multi-reels and will expand to hoses once we’re sure we can scale production. Exciting times ahead!

AMORTGAGE INTEREST RATES: TRENDS AND PREDICTIONS FOR 2025

s we enter November, mortgage interest rates are still very much a hot topic and a critical consideration for homeowners and potential buyers. Whilst I don’t agree that interest rates should make a huge impact on when to buy property, understanding the current landscape of mortgage rates is vital when purchasing your home and selecting the right loan product for you.

Current Landscape. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has been adjusting its monetary policy in response to inflationary pressures and global economic conditions. The RBA began a series of rate hikes in May of 2022 after an all time low of 0.10%. The rate hikes came as a response to combat soaring inflation, which peaked at 7.8% in December of 2022, a level not seen in decades. These increases pushed variable mortgage rates to ranges between 6% and 7%, while fixed-rate mortgages also saw significant rises, often reaching similar levels. Since December of 2023, the RBA has signalled a pause in its rate hikes, allowing some muchneeded relief to borrowers.

Influences of Mortgage Rates. Several key factors are influencing the fluctuations in mortgage interest rates.

1. Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Monetary Policy: The RBA's decisions regarding the cash rate play a pivotal role in

shaping mortgage rates. As the central bank navigates between controlling inflation and supporting economic growth, its monetary policy decisions have a direct impact on lenders' mortgage offerings.

2. Inflation: An inflation rate above the RBA’s target of 2-3% poses challenges, impacting the cost of living and purchasing power.

3. Economic Growth: The strength of the Australian economy, reflected in GDP growth and employment rates, influences the RBA's monetary policy.

4. Global Economic Conditions: International economic factors, including geopolitical tensions and shifts in major economies, can impact investor sentiment and capital flows, which in turn affect mortgage rates in Australia.

5. Housing Supply and Demand: The housing market, characterised by ongoing population growth and a limited supply of affordable housing, continues to drive demand. This puts upward pressure on property values and influences mortgage lending practices.

Economists Cash Rate Predictions for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, economists have varying predictions regarding mortgage interest rates in Australia. A general consensus suggests that while rates may not return to the historic lows of the past, they could reduce if inflation continues to decrease and economic conditions level out. Ahead of the September RBA Board meeting, which was the last meeting at the

time of writing, the big four banks released their updated predictions. CBA expected a 25-basis point cut as early as December. Westpac and ANZ predict February will see the first cuts and NAB expect rates will not be reduced until May of 2025.

All four predict a continuing downward trend with two of the four predicting multiple cuts down to as low as 3.10% by the end of 2025 So, you may be wondering, do you fix, or stay variable?

The cash rate predictions are already influencing fixed interest rate offerings with many banks reducing their fixed rates to mid 5’s in order to entice their clients to fix. The fact is they are just predictions and subject to change. No one has a crysal ball and whilst we can review all the information and indicators above, the landscape is forever changing.

If interest rates are keeping you up at night and you need certainty of repayments, or if you need interest rate relief now and cannot wait, you may decide to fix. If you’re comfortable with waiting and seeing what unfolds and your family could handle a rate movement up or down, then you might decide to stay variable. Either way, this is a decision that should be based on your individual circumstances and requirements and objectives. If you want to review your current loan or if you are looking to take out a new mortgage then reach out at www.farnsworthfinancial.com.au

In 2006, Margret Meagher moved from Sydney to Port Macquarie with her husband. After a long career working in arts marketing and art gallery management, Margret was keen to pursue her growing interest in the emerging field of arts, health and creative ageing and planned a series of 10 international conferences under the banner ‘The Art of Good Health and Wellbeing’.

The ongoing theme of the conferences was to highlight the health and wellbeing benefits of the visual arts, music, dance, theatre and creative writing for people of all ages and their communities.

The first conference was held in 2009 in Port Macquarie’s brand new Glasshouse Arts Centre with outstanding speakers presenting on leading arts and health initiatives such as the ‘Art and Dementia’ program at New York’s Museum of Modern Art, arts programs for older people developed by the National Center for Creative Ageing in Washington DC and Durham University’s Centre for Medical Humanities in the UK.

Arts and health expert Mike White from Durham University gave a keynote about one of the world’s most important sculptures, ‘The Angel of the North’ by Antony Gormley, 20 metres high, located in Newcastle Gateshead.

It was this sculpture which inspired Margret to create a free public art trail in Port Macquarie because it demonstrated to her what people gain by engaging with public art - enjoyment and delight shared with family and friend;, civic pride; a sense of wellbeing and connection; awareness of the importance of preserving the environment, and a major cultural tourism

Love Love Love this Shop!

LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS SHOP!

Hello Koalas is the best shop for gifts in Port Macquarie that I have come across. I was amazed to see how much awesome different giftware they have. The lady there was so friendly and helpful. (Google Review October 2024)

Hello Koalas is the best shop for gi s in Port Macquarie that I have come across. I was amazed to see how much awesome di erent gi ware they have. e lady there was so friendly and helpful. (Google Review October 2024)

attraction for the benefit of all.

Based on another UK replica sculpture project, ‘Larkin with Toads’ in 2010, it took four years with a small band of helpers, to develop the award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail and raise the funds to create the first 50 one metre high Hello Koalas fibreglass sculptures, handpainted by commissioned local artists.

Intent on making the fibreglass sculptures in NSW, Margret found a factory in Sydney and met industrial artist John Belfield who had made fibreglass structures for organisations like Darling Harbour’s Aquarium.

Over the course of several years, John delivered 50 ‘blank white’ sculptures to Port Macquarie for distribution to local artists.

In the process, John, an avid fishman, fell in love with the Port Macquarie region. He and his wife Julie moved to Johns River in 2017 and set up a fibreglass factory.

Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail was launched in 2014. There are now 90 one metre high Hello Koalas sculptures displayed across Greater Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast.

John was also responsible for building a 2.5 metre high fibreglass Hello Koalas sculpture called ‘The Big Koala, Spirit of All Koalas’, painted by local artist Pauline Roods and sponsored by Regional Australia Bank.

‘The Big Koala’ is the iconic landmark for Guulabaa, Place of Koala, a new visitor experience in the Cowarra State Forest, being developed by Forestry Corporation of NSW, on the corner of the Oxley Highway and Burrawan Forest Drive.

Additional funds have been raised for The

Macquarie Monopoly, complete with its exclusive Hello Koalas token.

Hello Koalas Gift Shop continues to sell copies of Port Macquarie Monopoly to underwrite the publication of a children’s book on koala conservation, which draws on the design of ‘The Big Koala’ and its 31 small koalas living happily in the forest.

In May this year, the Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop relocated to larger premises at 2/1A Blackbutt Road, just near the Lake Road roundabout. It’s adjacent to The Seed Art School and nearby are the Good Therapy Coffee Co and Lunico Candles.

Three times larger than the previous premises, Margret saw the opportunity to create a dedicated gallery space to display koala themed artworks and 25 Hello Koalas sculptures, including limited edition bronze koala sculptures. Margret’s declared aim is to create “the best koala shop in the world” to support “the biggest koala art trail in the world” which is free to all, thanks to our generous Hello Koalas sponsors and revenue from our gift shop.

A guest book entry from a Sydney visitor on 28 October says it all:

Stunning Store! Thank you for all of the joy you bring to the community!

Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop

2/1A Blackbutt Road, Port Macquarie Phone 0416 641 482 (7 days)

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm, Saturday 9am to 1pm info@hellokoala.com hellokoalas.com

Big Koala through a special edition of Port

Caption: Margret Meagher, Founder, Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail at the new Hello Koalas Gallery + Gift Shop (photo Andrew Kowalewski)

BRIGHT SIDE

As anyone who has ever been in court knows, judges and judicial officers are not renowned for displaying their sense of humour. Humour and reticence can cause offence and be detrimental to the core value of impartiality, and undermine public confidence in the judicial system. That said, judges are real people, and there are numerous examples of humour, whether deliberate or accidental, which appear in the court reports.

Banter

Joslyn v Berryman S122/2002 [2002] HCA

KIRBY J: I just think “drunk” is a label and I am a little worried about it – it is not necessary to put that label. It is just that they were sufficiently affected by alcohol to affect their capacity to drive.

MR JACKSON: Yes.

KIRBY J: “A drunk” has all sorts of baggage with it.

HAYNE J: Perhaps “hammered” is the more modern expression, Mr Jackson, or “well and truly hammered”.

MR JACKSON: I am indebted to your Honour.

KIRBY J: I do not know any of these expressions.

McHUGH J: No, no. Justice Hayne must live a

very different life to the sort of life we lead.

Appeal

Current Issues (2014) 88 Australian Law Journal 447, 449

In 2014, a magistrate in New South Wales sentenced a woman to nine months gaol for a drug offence. After the defendant indicated her intention to appeal, the magistrate said to her solicitor in open court: ‘You and I know precisely what will happen at the hearing of any appeal to the District Court. If past experience is any guide, and it is usually the best guide, the custodial penalty will be swept aside and replaced by a bond and a box of chocolates.’

Technology

Tomlinson v Ramsey Food Processing Pty Ltd [2015] HCA

FRENCH CJ: Just bear with us for a moment, there is a rogue iPad. Technical assistance is required.

MR BENNETT: It is probably guilty of contempt, your Honour.

FRENCH CJ: Order is restored, Mr Bennett. Of life and death

Green v Green (1989) 17 NSWLR 343 at 34

GLEESON J: The deceased appears to have maintained simultaneous domestic establishments with all three women and their

respective children,” he observed. “This is consistent with his apparent success as a used car salesman.

The Vibe

JT International SA v Commonwealth of Australia [2012] HCA 43

Heydon J: After a ‘great’ constitutional case, the tumult and the shouting dies. The captains and the kings depart. Or at least the captains do; the Queen in Parliament remains forever. Solicitors-General go. New SolicitorsGeneral come. This world is transitory. But some things never change. The flame of the Commonwealth’s hatred for that beneficial constitutional guarantee, s 51(xxxi), may flicker, but it will not die. That is why it is eternally important to ensure that that flame does not start a destructive blaze.

The law is a serious business

Although humour is a quintessentially human quality, it is rare to find it in court rooms. The courts are serious forums to determine very important, often life changing issues. Priest Legal has a highly experienced and specialised litigation team with almost 2 decades of expertise and a proven track record in most areas civil practice including commercial and business disputes, money and contractual disputes, will disputes, and alternative dispute resolution. We practice in all NSW and Federal Court jurisdictions.

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR CHANGE IN COWPER

Iwas filled with excitement as we recently launched our Community Independent Campaign for Cowper at the stunning Lighthouse Beach in Port Macquarie.

The place was packed full of amazing people all dedicated to a new kind of representation, grounded in listening and care for each other.

I took the stage alongside some inspiring locals to share our vision for a vibrant and inclusive future for our community. That’s what our community movement is all about. All of us, uniting to ensure that the voices of those who have been ignored for too long are finally heard. That’s why I am running. I’m proud to have been selected as the community independent candidate. Our community deserves a representative who listens, who cares and who knows how to get things done.

As an independent candidate, I am free from party factions, donor obligations or lobby group influence. That means I can vote on legislation in accordance with the interests of our community, which is needed now more than ever.

We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful region, which we cherish for its relaxed way of life. However, we face serious challenges that have been ignored for far too long. Our age, disability and healthcare systems are under immense pressure. More and more people are unable to afford a home, electricity and grocery bills are soaring. Furthermore, countless businesses and households suffer from inadequate internet and mobile coverage.

In today’s fast-paced world, access to reliable energy, internet and phone services is not a luxury - it’s essential for young people, families and grandparents to remain connected, and for businesses to thrive. We only need to look to Victoria to see what a difference Independents can make in this area - through years of coordinated advocacy, Indi independent Helen Haines has helped secure over 50 new phone towers and eliminate hundreds of mobile black spots. I will fight to fix the mobile blackspots and get us faster access, so that no one is left behind, whether in an emergency or when trying to run a small business.

Better regional healthcare is also a priority for our community, with services stretched to breaking point. I will work with the Primary Health Networks, the NDIS and the Aged Care Sector to deliver more and better services to our community.

It is also unacceptable that people are living in tents because they can’t afford rent, with families, retirees, and even those with fulltime jobs unable to find a home. Every individual deserves a safe and stable place to call home, and I will work in collaboration with the community to ensure that we create solutions that work for rural and regional areas, not just cities.

I’m not afraid to take on the big issues, but I’ll do it with compassion and listen to

what really matters to you. Our campaign is built on that foundation of understanding, collaboration and respect for every voice in our community.

Standing alongside such an impassioned community over the weekend, I was filled with a profound sense of hope. Hope that together, our community can have a voice that has genuine representation in parliament.

Your voice matters, and I am committed to hearing it. To build a culture of accessibility, transparency and accountability based on genuine dialogue.

I invite you to join this movement. Together, we can champion the needs of our community. Because when we support one another, we all thrive. Together, we can set a new standard in governance that prioritises people above all.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Caz Heise

With an election due in just over 6 months, recently I announced that I will not be recontesting the next election.

It’s been an honour and privilege to serve and represent you as the Federal Member for Lyne in the Commonwealth Parliament of Australia since 2013. Since that time, we have achieved a lot together. I’m particularly proud of the nine years during The Nationals’ term in government in which our electorate was able to secure record funding for so many projects throughout our region. It has been a lot of hard work, but also an absolute pleasure working with so many of you involved in various organisations across the community who have helped me deliver these projects.

Every time I walk into the Parliament and into the House of Representatives Chamber, it is certainly not lost on me, the trust you have placed in me and the importance of the position I hold as your representative.

Thankyou!

Whether it be in energy policy, tax reform, cutting red tape, infrastructure investment, support of our primary industries and small business, competition policy, aged care, national security, social services or reform of our Federation, I’ve certainly continued to prosecute the case on why we need to invest and implement common sense policies in these areas.

Having served in the Ministry for three years including as Minister for Regional Health in the former government, I was able to utilise my knowledge and skills through my background as a medical specialist in developing policies which are now being rolled out today. I was particularly passionate about the need to build our medical and health workforce in the regions, and as Minister I secured funding for a major expansion of the network of full-time medical schools and nursing and allied health campuses across regional Australia.

has experienced many challenges from the 2019/2020 Bushfires, the 2021 Floods and the Covid Pandemic. During these challenging events, I have worked with our community and my parliamentary colleagues in Canberra to ensure we were able to secure the support we needed to respond and help us bounce back stronger.

In Parliament, I have used this national forum as an opportunity to advocate on behalf of our community and our local industries and work with my parliamentary colleagues on all sides to improve the lives of Australians and help

deliver a better country now and in the future.

As the Chair of Parliamentary Friends of Nuclear Industries for the past five years, I have continued to work with members of the Coalition and across the Parliament in pushing for new zero-emissions nuclear technology as a viable option to secure Australia’s energy security in the future and I’m delighted that it has now become Coalition policy.

Throughout my time as the Federal Member of Parliament, our region

For over 11 years, my wife Charlotte and our family have supported me in this wonderful job and I thank them for their love and support. As good as it is, the job has taken me away from home to Canberra for Parliament and across Australia as a Minister for well over half the year, each year, for over 11 years. Keeping a very busy schedule across a big electorate also means many more days away from my family. Having completed many national policy initiatives and having secured funding for many local projects that I have been working on for some years, I’m now looking forward to spending more time with Charlotte and my family.

Australia is at a crossroads, and we need more people in Parliament with real life experience that are prepared to speak up in support of commonsense policies that work. Supporting and retaining the many things that work, while also embracing new things that can help improve the lives of Australians is critical for our ongoing prosperity as a nation.

Dr David GILLESPIE MP FEDERAL MEMBER

I will of course be working hard between now and the next election as your Federal Member and will work closely with the next Nationals candidate to ensure our region continues to not only receive strong representation, but also remains the focus of regional investment.

The Nationals have already begun the preselection process for Lyne and nominations close in about three weeks’ time. From there, a preselection meeting will be held on Saturday 7th December to determine the next candidate who will contest the electorate of Lyne for The Nationals. I’ll be working with and supporting the new Nationals candidate to ensure many of the projects we are continuing to work on locally will be included in The Nationals’ plan for Government at next year’s election.

Finally, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the people of the Lyne electorate for their ongoing support. Thank you to The Nationals party members who have continued to help with policy development and in supporting me at each and every election, and thank you to my staff for all of their hard work in helping me do my job serving the people of the Lyne electorate.

Delivering for our Region

L 2013-2025 Financial Assistance Grants - Hastings$115.90 million

L 2014-2025 Roads to Recovery funding - Hastings$22.93 million

L Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Package - Hastings - $11.80 million

L Pacific Highway Upgrade Oxley Highway to Kempsey$820 million

L M1 to Raymond Terrace Pacific Highway project - $1.75 billion

L Laurieton Sports Complex upgrade - $455,000

L Lorne Road Upgrade - $5 million

L Jobs and Investment packageindustry expansion projects$7 million

L Wauchope Andrews Park Upgrade - $350,000

L Kew Main Street redevelopment and beautification - $800,000

L Port Macquarie Airport$25 million – Jointly-funded

L Ellenborough Falls Walkway Upgrade - $350,000

L Lake Innes Rural Fire Brigade Station project - $920,000

L Pioneer Park, Comboynefacilities upgrade - $100,000

L Lake Cathie Medical Centre upgrade - $300,000

L Wauchope Pool upgrade and redevelopment - $1.5 million

L Dunbogan Bridge upgrade$1.5 million

L Wauchope Pool upgrade$1.5 million

L Wauchope West Urban Growth Area Infrastructure (Yippin Creek) - $5 million

L Medical, Nursing and Allied Health Local Student Education and Training - RHMT Funding - UNSW, University of Newcastle, CSU.

L Kendall Tennis Club upgrades$170,000

L Bonny Hills, Comboyne Beechwood, Kendall, Wauchope and Camden Haven Beach to Beach Shared Pathways projects - $3 million

L Lake Cathie Community Hall Reserve facilities upgrade$80,000

L Port Macquarie Indoor Stadium expansion - $2.8 million

L Regional Bridge Upgrades$35 million

L Federal funding for Aged Care and Home Care increased from $90 million in 2013 to over $300 Million

L Wauchope Industrial Areas Rehabilitation - $611,116

L Kendall Showground upgrades - $50,000

L Guulabaa - Place of KoalaForestry Wildnets Bunyah project - $3 million

L Lake Cathie Foreshore Reserve upgrade - $280,000

Wauchope: Shops 2 & 3, 43 High Street, Wauchope NSW 2446 6586 4462

Taree: 144 Victoria Street, Taree NSW 2430 6557 8910

david.gillespie.mp@aph.gov.au davidgillespie.com.au DavidGillespieMP

Authorised by David Gillespie MP, National Party of Australia, Shops 2 & 3, 43 High Street, Wauchope NSW 2446.

L $500,000 towards upgrades to Pembroke, Ellenborough, Long Flat, Pappinbarra Byabarra, Comboyne, Hollisdale, Kindee, Beechwood, Bellangry, Rollands Plains and Laurieton Arts Halls

L Long Flat Recreation Grounds Facility upgrade - $100,000

L Bago Road upgrade - $5 million

L Wauchope Showground upgrades - $300,000

L Dunbogan Water infrastructure Fire protection upgrade$975,364

L Cameron Street carpark resurfacing Wauchope$150,000

L Bold Street Laurieton upgrade - $700,000

Michael and Kathy Beattie

Michael and Kathy Bea ie and their family have been selling furniture to the Mid North Coast since 1983, that’s over 41 years. eir aim is to bring high-quality, stylish, and luxurious furniture that is both comfortable and durable locally for your enjoyment. We had a chat with Michael to find out more….

Hi Michael, can you tell us the story behind Beatties Quality Furniture?

My parents started Beatties after they ‘retired’ to the coast from their sheep and wheat farm in Parkes, NSW. They spent about six months looking for the perfect coastal town, eventually settling in Nambucca Heads. As the quiet of retirement began to lose its charm, their passion for quality furniture inspired them to start a business. Taking a bold step, they acquired a small shop on the main street of Nambucca Heads and filled it with a selection of furniture. The business flourished, leading to the addition of another storefront.

In 1987, Beatties Quality Furniture moved to its current location, conveniently situated near the highway and easily accessible from both Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie. My parents have since retired again to Sapphire Beach, and I have

had the privilege of running the business for the past 17 years.

Have you always worked in Beatties?

We carefully curate our selection to ensure that every piece meets our high standards, so you can trust that you’re ge ing furniture that lasts.

I was in high school when my parents started Beatties, so I spent my holidays and after school delivering furniture. After finishing school I returned to my family roots, earning a degree in Agriculture and working as an agronomist for many years. My wife, Kathy, has over 25 years of experience in architecture, working with design, style, colour and textures in the built environment. Together we bring our experiences in sales, listening to people’s needs to find tailored solutions and design skills into the world of furniture. We take great pride in now being part of the family business and are excited taking Beatties forward in the future of furniture.

What types of furniture do you specialise in, and what sets your offerings apart from other stores?

At Beatties Quality Furniture, as our name

suggests, we concentrate on true quality first followed by style and longevity. We have a wide range of furniture for every room in your home, including living rooms, bedrooms, dining areas, and home offices. As an independent store, we offer a variety of options to help personalise furniture. We carefully curate our selection to ensure that every piece meets our high standards, so you can trust that you’re getting furniture that lasts.

We proudly offer a diverse range of wellknown brands, including over 12 Australianmade manufacturers, each known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. Our brands include Stressless, IMG Comfort, Lazboy, Himolla, Molmic and Moran which are recognised for their innovative designs and quality materials. We also prioritise customer individuality, offering a variety of styles, materials, and finishes to help you create a space that truly reflects your taste.

Our store is a bit like the TARDIS - it feels more spacious inside than it appears from the outside, thanks to the wide range of options we offer. Many customers have told us that we surpass even the best stores in capital cities, as they can explore so much all in one place.

Continued over...

Michael and Kathy Beattie

Apart from your fantastic range of furniture how is Beatties unique?

As a family-run business, we believe in providing exceptional value for money, ensuring that our customers can find beautiful, functional pieces without compromising on quality. Our years of experience enables us to distinguish between quality furniture and lesser options, giving you the confidence that you’re making a wise investment in your home. We focus on craftsmanship and longevity, partnering only with manufacturers who stand behind their products.

We also believe in providing good oldfashioned service with a personalised touch for each customer, just as we would like to experience ourselves. We take the time to understand our customers' needs, ensuring we help them find furniture that truly enhances their home. Our knowledgeable staff offer expert guidance to help you

Your website mentions Assisted Living, can you tell us about that?

We focus on cra smanship and longevity, partnering only with manufacturers who stand behind their products.

navigate the options and select the perfect pieces. We know that buying furniture can be a bit of a "Goldilocks" experience - finding just the right piece! We take pride in helping our customers achieve that perfect feeling with our wide selection.

Additionally, we provide a seamless delivery and installation service, ensuring that your new furniture arrives safely and is set up exactly as you envision in your home. Our free delivery extends from Woolgoolga in the north to Port Macquarie in the south, and everywhere in between, adding the perfect finishing touch to your shopping experience. We will also take away your old furniture making the whole experience as enjoyable as possible.

At Beatties, we offer furniture designed to make it easier to stay in your home as you navigate the challenges that come with aging. Our collection includes chairs and sofas with higher seat heights, as well as adjustable beds and chairs that facilitate easier standing. We believe that functionality doesn’t have to compromise style; our pieces are both beautifully crafted and far from institutional.

Our knowledgeable staff are here to help you find the perfect fit for your needs, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported in your choices. We have experience with most MyAgedCare package providers. Additionally, our dedicated delivery team will handle the delivery and installation of your selections in your home, so you can enjoy your new furniture hassle-free.

What challenges have you encountered

Today,

in the retail furniture industry, and how have you navigated them?

When my parents founded Beatties, they offered a broad range of furniture qualities. However, over the years, we noticed more issues with lower-quality items, and the overall value for money just wasn’t there. Today, we focus exclusively on furniture that delivers lasting value and exceptional craftsmanship. We’ve refined our selection to ensure that every piece we sell is

we focus exclusively on furniture that delivers lasting value and exceptional cra smanship. We’ve refined our selection to ensure that every piece we sell is well made and built to last.

well made and built to last. Additionally, we only partner with manufacturers who stand behind their products, ensuring you can feel confident that you’re making a sound investment when you purchase from Beatties.

If you could refurnish any room at home what would you select?

My wife and I discuss this every time we receive new pieces. With so many choices, it’s a challenge even for us! Right now, our top contenders include the Azure range from Himolla, which offers fantastic powered reclining options and a future-proof lift-chair sofa; the Stella couch from Stressless, which is perfect for both our heights along with their Magic recliners; the Milan sofa from IMG, with its versatile configurations; and the Hudson from Molmic, a cozy couch ideal for curling up. Of course, we’re always getting new arrivals, so our favourites are bound to change!

Thank you Michael, your store sounds amazing. How can we shop with you?

Stop by our store on the corner of Duke and Pioneer St, Nambucca Heads, just 3 minutes off the highway.

There’s nothing like experiencing our furniture in person, and we encourage everyone to try before they buy to find the perfect selection for their needs. We’re open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, closed Saturday and open Sundays from 9 am to 12 pm.

We’d love to see you!

Winners

PEPPER WATER

CONSTRUCTIONS

At Pepper Water, we’re more than just builders – we’re craftsmen, innovators, and storytellers. As a third generation family of builders, we’ve honed our expertise over the years, perfecting the art of construction with precision and integrity. With Vernon Falzon’s 30+ years of experience at the helm, our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional spaces that exceed expectations, from dream homes to vibrant commercial spaces and thoughtfully designed multi-unit projects.

Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in building and construction?

I was born with building in my bones. From walking around a building site barefoot as a toddler at my grandfather's feet, (I come from a long line of builders who were originally from Malta), to stepping onto the sites I manage today in the compulsory steel-capped boots I now wear, building is an instinct to me; it’s in my nature.

I have grown from a passionate young tradesman working in the family business in Sydney, to the leader of my construction team, now specialising in multi units and duplexes on the Mid North Coast.

Building is a creative process for me, a natural flow state. From the moment I set foot on a new potential building site, my mind, heart and spirit begin to weave together the elements that will become the finished product. I love being involved in projects from the get-go. Getting to a new site, noticing the flow of the land, the surroundings, the location, the possibilities and factors involved, I begin a deeply creative process. My imagination starts to create an image, and that’s it, I’m hooked. I give 100 percent to my projects and become completely absorbed in the work.

The decisions I make on my sites today come from generations of passed down knowledge that I have absorbed and applied to the current trends, requirements and protocols from my own lived experience in building. This process is more than a trade to me, it is a way of knowing, it’s a language that is alive in me. I call this the

integrity of the build. It is a knowing which is backed up with strong action that flows into a finished product and stands out in the marketplace. This is reflected in the sale prices that my developments achieve, raising the local sale prices each time I sell.

How would you describe your signature style as a builder? What sets your work apart from the others in your industry?

My signature style as a builder is a combination of practical and generational experience with a natural ability to problem solve and drive projects, through will and a can-do attitude. My love of quality as well as an unrelenting attention to detail brings a product to life that matches the client’s dream and at the best possible cost. Building with integrity these days requires a deep and clear understanding of many factors, including navigating complex and continuously changing council and government policies, ever changing building products and suppliers, legal and banking entities and many other ins and outs that can create confusion and challenge for even the most experienced builders. Managing complex building projects

requires a great deal of containment, knowledge, confidence and multi tasking that has not been needed in previous generations. I believe these are traits that can’t be taught. They are character qualities that really make the difference between a tradesman and a craftsman, and they change not only the process of the build, but of course also the end product.

Being creative in the design, thinking outside the box and using my imagination to really live in the early stages of the design. I need to have my developments aesthetically pleasing - it really ma ers to me.

What made the projects awarded special, and what elements contributed to making them special and successful?

The winning projects named in the recent HIA awards are characteristic of the way I build. They are successful for a number of reasons. Firstly, they are very aesthetically pleasing, I put a lot of emphasis on the product selection in the design stage - I feel a lot of modern developments are lacking this focus. Secondly, my developments require minimal upkeep and maintenance to the purchaser through the use of pre-finished products to all facades. This is another area where a lot of developments are lacking. The initial costs of a pre-finished product may be slightly higher but the cost of having to rescaffold a development in the coming years to repaint, for example, is much higher. Other factors which I believe give a superior product are the generous spaces I provide in all rooms,

along with quality fixtures that look good and perform well.

I enjoy the challenge of working with sloping sites and thrive in a good creative use of space. I make the building suit the land rather than the land suit the building. I do this by being creative in the design, thinking outside the box and using my imagination to really live in the early stages of the design. I need to have my developments aesthetically pleasing - it really matters to me.

Any upcoming projects and developments?

We are currently working on an extensive restoration and repurposing of the old Manning River Times building in Taree. We have been working very closely with the client to transform this space into a café/bar, yoga studio, apothecary and wellness centre. This is a dynamic and creative commercial project and bringing this old building into a new life has been really rewarding. I love learning new things and the commercial arena is something I'd like

to do more of. I'm also looking at some coastal developments which have their own style and design, focusing on capturing views and a holiday feel. I also have 2 exciting townhouse projects, a block of 7 and a block of 12, currently going through the approval process. Having a few projects at different stages helps keep the flow going as many stages are out of my control, such as council approval and other requirements, so timing and staging is an understated, underlying factor in the building industry.

How can we get in touch?

If you are ready to get your building project started or would like more information from the Pepper Water Team.

Reach out...

P: 0418 224 380

E: vernon@ pepperwater.com.au

W: pepperwater.com.au

HOME Styling

Swith ANTHONY BERINGEN

FROM OPEN HOUSE FURNITURE

HOW TO CHOOSE A GREAT DINING CHAIR.

electing the perfect dining chair is another one of those decorating choices that can sometimes leave people bewildered or overwhelmed by the seemingly endless number of options available on the market. These essential furniture pieces not only provide seating but also contribute significantly to the overall ambience of your dining space. So how do you chose the perfect dining chair for your home?

Well, here’s a few insider tips to help guide you along the way:

Standard Dimensions. Let’s begin by working out the right dimensions for your dining chair. In Australia, the standard height for dining tables ranges from 71 to 81 centimetres (cm) from the floor. Consequently, the ideal dining chair height should be between 43 and 50 cm to make sure you’re sitting comfortably and with good body posture. Armless chairs typically offer more flexibility in terms of fitting under your dining table, while armed chairs provide additional support and comfort, albeit requiring more clearance.

When it comes to chair width, a minimum of 55 cm is recommended for optimal comfort, with a depth of at least 60 cm to accommodate various body types. Spacing between chairs should be around 30 to 60 cm to allow for easy movement and a sense of openness. Also check for splayed legs, as these will take up more width under your table and may reduce the number of people you are able to seat on each side.

Consider Comfort and Functionality First. Beyond dimensions, it’s a good idea to carefully consider the comfort and functionality of your dining chairs. Start by thinking about how you

like to use your dining space – is it primarily for formal occasions or just casual family gatherings? Is the dining chair something you will use every night? Are there little people with sticky fingers in your home, or mainly adults?

The answers to these questions will help guide your choice of chair style and materials.

Upholstered chairs with plush cushions or seat pads offer superior comfort for extended seating, while wooden chairs with ergonomic designs provide a balance of support, easy care and style. Armrests can be a game-changer for those seeking additional comfort or requiring assistance when sitting or rising. However, they may not be the best option for smaller dining areas due to their larger footprint.

Eco-Friendly, Sustainable & Stylish Materials

Teak, mango wood, rattan and other natural materials are sustainable, as they are fastgrowing and require minimal processing.

Choosing chairs manufactured from these materials helps reduce your carbon footprint while supporting more environmentally friendly home furnishings. By incorporating chairs constructed from beautiful natural materials into your home, you not only enjoy the benefits of sustainable, lightweight, and durable furniture, but you also bring an effortless, organic and calm aesthetic to your dining space.

Form and Aesthetics. While functionality is crucial, the aesthetic appeal of dining chairs also shouldn’t be overlooked.

They should seamlessly complement the existing decor and style of your dining room, creating a cohesive and visually appealing space.

For a modern, minimalist look, consider sleek, clean-lined chairs with mango wood or teak frames and upholstered or leather seats in

neutral tones. Alternatively, rattan, water hyacinth and natural fibre dining chairs bring a warm, organic feel to any space. Their woven textures add depth and character, enhancing the look of both minimalist and eclectic interiors. The earthy tones of natural fibres like rattan, jute, or wicker can soften and brighten a dining room, making it feel more inviting and relaxed. When mixing and matching different chair styles or materials, make sure they share a common design element, such as colour, wood tone, texture, or shape, to create a harmonious and intentional look.

Whether you prefer sleek modern designs, rustic charm, or classic elegance, chairs should align with your aesthetic. Don’t hesitate to mix styles for a more eclectic look, as long as there’s some cohesion in colour or materials.

Focus on Durability.

Dining chairs are a long-term investment, so choose materials that can withstand daily use. Solid wood and high-quality fabrics are durable options. If you have young children or pets, consider easy-to-clean, stain-resistant materials.

Test Before Buying. It seems obvious, but whenever possible, test chairs before buying. Feel the seat depth, back support, and check if the chairs slide easily under the table without scratching the floor.

In short, selecting the perfect dining chair doesn’t have to be overwhelming, it just requires careful consideration of dimensions, functionality, materials, and aesthetics.

By prioritising comfort, sustainability, and personal style, anyone can easily create a dining space that not only looks beautiful but also invites you to linger and savour every moment spent around the table with the people you love.

Lookingforaflooringsolutionthat’stoughand visuallystunning?

Epoxyflooringofferstheperfectcombinationof durability,styleandlowmaintenance.Idealfor commercialandresidentialapplicationsyoucan choosefromavarietyofcoloursandpatterns. Establishedhistoryofqualityandservicewith showroomsinbothPortMacquarieandCoffsHarbour.

SHUTTERS, BLINDS & AWNINGS

Last month marked seven years since Newton Blinds was launched. Some of you will recall we put a message out on Facebook that Robert and I were going back into blinds and doing it for ourselves this time, and we set out thinking it would be just the two of us!

SHUTTERS, BLINDS & AWNINGS

SNewtons we owned and operated a franchise blinds business which at one stage comprised of stores in Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Ballina. After 12 years of juggling 3 stores, all the staff and three little children who came along during that time we decided we would embark on our new business in a smaller fashion.

We started out working from home - Robert doing all the measuring and installing himself and I ran the admin and customer service from our dining table at home and from my mobile. Initially it seemed great that I could manage the business no matter where I was - driving kids to school, getting groceries or hanging out the washing - I could take the calls and manage our business.

That whimsical notion didn’t last long! We were so pleasantly surprised with how well received our new business was with so many familiar customers from our previous life in blinds who had come across to support our new brand. Before we knew it we employed an installer to help us stay on top of the workload, then we turned a room in our house into an office - as the dining table just want feasible anymore. The deliveries arriving in our garage at home were fast taking over and we were running out of room. Fast forward seven years and here we are today. So much has happened during those seven

years and we are now a group of 13 working together to operate this business! We occupy a beautiful showroom/office space on Cameron Street in Wauchope and took a leap of faith two years ago to move into manufacturing some of our own blinds. If you weren’t aware, we bought an existing local business which was on the market in 2022. Shades 2000 has been serving the Hastings for well over 20 years and is now Shades Manufacturing and proudly making blinds and curtains for our Newton customers, which has been an incredible learning curve for Robert and I.

To us you are all friends, our staff and customers equally. We are incredibly touched by the kindness and support we receive all the time in our business.

The other people we couldn’t do without are our customers. Some of you have been with us from day one, liking our Facebook posts, sharing our messages, referring your friends and family and of course continuing to buy from us. We have gathered new customers every week who have shown loyalty to our business ever since.

We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved during this time. Back in 2017 we didn’t imagine for one second that we would find ourselves, or our business, where we are right now. As any small business owner knows, the hours we have dedicated to our business to get to this point are just incredible, but what is more incredible are the staff we have alongside us and who have helped us to get to where we are and continue to do so every day, none of this is possible without them and their dedication to their jobs.

To us you are all friends, our staff and customers equally. We are incredibly touched by the kindness and support we receive all the time in our business. What we are most proud of is that we are able to employ and support 11 staff and their families, provide locally made products and support our local community in the way of local students, schools, sporting groups and local charity groups. We endeavour to give back as much as possible to help those around us.

So as we embark on another year of Newtons and are tackling our 19th Christmas rush in the blinds industry, we are feeling incredibly lucky to still be living and working in this beautiful region surrounded by amazing people every day. Hope you all have a great November.

together to operate this business! We

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