AIRPORT I SS UE 1 1
magazine H A R B O U R A I R P O R T
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C O F F S
A Doubly Good Life Home life in country, work life around the world
Sunny Sawtell
Getting to know this little seaside village
Marvellous Muttonbird Muttonbird Island, part-time home to thousands of Wedge-tailed Shearwater
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contents ISSUE 11
28 on the cover 6
A Doubly Good Life Home life in the country, work life around the world
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Marvellous Muttonbird Muttonbird Island, part-time home to thousands of Wedge-tailed Shearwater
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Sunny Sawtell Getting to know this little seaside village
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features 10
Be Motivated We chat to Michelle Bridges from Channel Ten’s Biggest Loser
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Tim McGraw & Faith Hill Your chance to win tickets to their concert
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An Artistic Tale A little about Davson the artist
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Suzuki’s 2012 GSX-R1000 It’s hotly anticipated and here
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Focus on Cedarwood The Australian Alps apartments are open all year round
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AIRPORT ISSUE 11
magazine H A R B O U R A I R P O R T
www.inflightmagazine.com.au
C O F F S
A Doubly Good Life Home life in country, work life around the world
Sunny Sawtell
Getting to know this little seaside village
Marvellous Muttonbird Muttonbird Island, part-time home to thousands of Wedge-tailed Shearwater
regulars 4 Welcome to the Airport 24 Accommodation
20 Education
30 Talk Back
I’M FREE
TAKE ME WITH YOU
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PUBLISHER Patrick McElligott patrick@inflightmagazine.com.au
EDITOR Bettina Maniatis bettina@inflightmagazine.com.au
DESIGN Lawrence Borchers lawrence@inflightmagazine.com.au
WELCOME TO COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL AIRPORT
ADVERTISING & ENQUIRIES WESTERN EDITION [WA] Daniela Raos daniela@inflightmagazine.com.au NORTHERN EDITION [QLD] Robyn Crouch robyn@inflightmagazine.com.au SOUTHERN EDITION [NSW] Martin Rumball martin@inflightmagazine.com.au BOATING INDUSTRY Brittany Cavill brittany@inflightmagazine.com.au XP TRAVELLER Martin Rumball martin@inflightmagazine.com.au PRINTING Geon Airport Magazine is published bi-monthly by Inflight Publishing Pty. Ltd. Views expressed in Airport magazine are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher or the printer for the accuracy of information contained in the text or advertisements. Advertisements must comply with the relevant Trade Practices Act 1979. Responsibility for compliance with the act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement. Neither the publisher nor the editor accepts responsibility for advertisements.
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Ph (07) 3891 7793 • Fax (07) 3891 7702 PO Box 6133, Buranda, Qld 4102 www.inflightmagazine.com.au
W
elcome to the first edition of Airport magazine for 2012. In this edition we feature more of our business associates who contribute to the overall fabric of the Coffs Harbour Regional Airport community. We are extremely fortunate to have such a diverse range of service providers based in and around the airport who contribute to the uniqueness of this facility. I am not aware of any other airport that has a full service travel agency on site, for instance. Airports these days are much more than a transit hall for airline passengers. In regional areas, we have the opportunity to become more closely aligned with community needs and expectations. In addition to providing a pleasant atmosphere and facilities for passengers and visitors, we get involved in community events such as the World Rally Championships, Buskers and Comedy Festival and the Utopian Dance Festival. Another interesting story in this edition focuses on some local residents who travel to Sydney or beyond for their work and return to a home life on Coffs Coast. We are fortunate to have such a convenient flight schedule to Sydney provided by Qantaslink and Virgin Australia with the choice of seven flights a day made possible by the mix of jets and turbo-prop aircraft. This combination gives us frequent flights at convenient times for both business and leisure travellers. However, we will continue to strive for improvements. We regularly talk with our airline partners to explore additional services to current destinations and evaluate new routes in a timely and practical way as our market grows. I trust that your experience of the Coffs Harbour Regional Airport and its facilities is to your satisfaction and wish you a pleasant flight. Dennis Martin Airport Manager
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Coffs Harbour Airport
FLYING HIGH
B
ucking national trends, Coffs Harbour Regional Airport is enjoying strong growth. Fiscal year 2010/11 was a record for the airport with some 340,000 people using the airport for their travel around the country and the world. This was a 6.5 % increase over the previous 12 months. “When other regional airports around Australia are experiencing tough times, this is a very pleasing result for Coffs,” said Airport Manager, Dennis Martin. According to Mr Martin, Coffs Coast has one of the most convenient flight schedules in regional Australia. The mix of aircraft, Qantalink’s Q400 turbo props and Virgin Australia’s jets offer travellers the choice of seven flights per day to and from Sydney (and beyond) and a weekly direct Melbourne service. In addition to the two major carriers, Brindabella Airlines also supports Coffs Coast with two flights per day to Brisbane catering mainly to the corporate market. Mr Martin said that this has been the result of working closely with the airlines to ensure
operations remain financially sustainable and that Coffs Coast residents are provided with quality airport facilities and convenient airline services. That said, Mr Martin emphasised more needs to be done to remain competitive and viable. “We are continuing negotiations with Virgin to reinstate the early morning service to Sydney, exploring opportunities for increased services to Melbourne and Brisbane and upgrading airport infrastructure,” he said. Over the years, there have been calls for international services to and from Coffs Harbour. In a time of fierce competition between international carriers, this is an enormous challenge. The route that may present a slight opportunity is the Trans Tasman. Even then, travellers are more likely to obtain a greater choice of daily flight departures and fare options from Brisbane and Sydney compared with a possible weekly service from Coffs. According to Mr Martin, the benefits of a weekly service to and from New Zealand
may generate up to an additional 18,000 passengers per year compared with the potential of up to 110,000 passengers with an extra direct daily Melbourne service. Mr Martin emphasised that it is crucial services are developed for long term sustainability. He said there are many instances of other airports losing services because they proved to be unviable after only short periods of operation. “Coffs Harbour Regional Airport is well positioned to accommodate substantial growth over the next ten years as very little capital expenditure is required on infrastructure over and above the usual cost of maintenance, repairs and programmed capital works,” Mr Martin added. “We are one of the best regional airports in Australia and we aim to be even better.” It is the intention of Coffs Harbour Regional Airport to operate sustainably, work collaboratively with business partners and to contribute to ongoing service, growth and prosperity for residents of Coffs Coast. n
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A Doubly
GOOD LIFE J
ust what is the so called good life? For some, it’s sailing around the world on a private yacht while others prefer a top-deck suite on a luxury cruise liner. Some folk say it’s getting away from it all outback sleeping in a tent under the stars while others say it’s wetting a line and sitting back trying their luck at fishing. And if they catch anything, well, that’s a bonus. For others it is being able to live a doubly good life. That is, having a combination of home life in the country and a work life that takes them to cities and places around Australia and the world. Surprisingly there are a number of Coffs Coast residents who live and work this way. At Coffs Harbour Airport, these people have become familiar faces and friends to airline and terminal staff who see them on a regular basis as they commute between home and office.
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So we caught up with a few of these folk to learn how they came to enjoy their doubly good life. David Lloyd has been a resident of Coffs Coast for the past 10 years but his association goes back much further. David Lloyd
In the early 1970s, David worked for the then Commonwealth Department of Aviation which had responsibility for the regulation and operation of all Australian airports. Based
in Sydney, he had both a professional and private interest in aviation. On his days off, he would take to north coast skies for the sheer pleasure of flying and to enjoy the stunning coastal and hinterland scenery, including that of Coffs Coast. Between then and now, things changed. The Commonwealth decided it was not in the business of operating airports. Over time, part of the department morphed into a government business enterprise then completed its exit from airport ownership by divesting all the major airports to the private sector and the regional airports to local governments under a scheme entitled Aerodrome Local Ownership Plan. Ironically, the last Commonwealth owned airport transferred under this scheme in NSW was Coffs Harbour Airport. At the 1984 official hand-over ceremony, when Council’s then Mayor, Cr John Smith received the title of deed, David was part of the team present,
When it comes to commuting for business, David was also very forthcoming. “When attending business meetings, there are often delays of one kind or another,” David said. “So with Coffs having up to seven flights each day to and from Sydney, I can usually get home at the end of the day.” Another interesting comment made by David was that with modern technology including high speed broadband and access to professional on-line planning tools, much of the research and planning is able to be undertaken from home rather than in the company’s Sydney office. He enjoys the peace and tranquillity of his Coffs Coast hinterland home rather than the hum and hustle of city traffic. When asked what he saw as future trends in the aviation sector, he suggested four key factors; air services are driven by expanding economic activity, population growth, major developments, such as a mine, and that coastal airports will tend to grow faster compared to inland counterparts. According to David, life is doubly good just now – he is enjoying renovating his hinterland home and furthering his professional aviation career. Both based on Coffs Coast. Rochelle Martin is another business professional who calls Coffs home and mostly works elsewhere.
Rochelle Martin
representing the Commonwealth. Now, with over 35 years in aviation, David lives on Coffs Coast and consults as a senior airport planner. This means he spends about 60 per cent of his time at home and much of the rest in Sydney working on various projects around the globe. Some of these have been in China, India and Papua New Guinea, the mining towns of north west Western Australia, outback Queensland, and closer to home ports of the Gold Coast, Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. When asked why he settled on Coffs Coast, David offered a range or reasons. “I like the geography here where the mountains step down to the coast,” he said. “The forests and the beaches are on our doorstep, the city is big but not too big and the local traffic is nothing like the snarl of Sydney – plus I like the relaxed lifestyle, places like Sawtell, Bellingen, the harbour and Jetty Strip.”
As a producer for Getaway for nearly six years, Rochelle was always on the go – from Coffs to Sydney to anywhere around Australia and around the world. Sometimes just to get to the ‘office’ for a film shoot required up to five flight sectors and sometimes up to two days of travel before getting on with the job. Before she started travelling the world, Rochelle was a television reporter on the mid-north coast of New South Wales for NBN Television. In those days, she travelled around the region, reporting on local events and happenings then dashing back to the studio to produce and package her stories for the evening news. This ‘Jill of all trades’ experience gave Rochelle a solid background which stood her in good stead when applying to join Channel Nine as a producer for Getaway. Back then, she started as a freelance proving her abilities before gaining greater freedom to produce her own segments for the extremely high rating travel show. Fortunately for Rochelle, she happened to be in the right place at the right time when a full-time producer’s position became available. Having already demonstrated her capabilities, she applied for the job and was ultimately
appointed. Up to that point in time, Rochelle travelled regularly between Coffs and Sydney for the job and in the back of her mind, she was expecting that if successful in gaining a permanent position, she would have to live in Sydney. On the day she was given the good news, she said to her Executive Producer, “I guess I’ll now have to find a place to live in Sydney.” To her great surprise, the response was, “Why? It works now, why change?”
“AT COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT, THESE PEOPLE HAVE BECOME FAMILIAR FACES AND FRIENDS TO AIRLINE AND TERMINAL STAFF WHO SEE THEM ON A REGULAR BASIS AS THEY COMMUTE BETWEEN HOME AND OFFICE.” During this time she was away from Coffs for 15 or more weeks each year and has over 30 foreign country stamps in her now tattered passport. From these travels, she has two very fond memories – one of a remote film location the other of a very special person. The most stunning location was the Mt Everest Base Camp. Just getting there was an adventure. She recalls the train journey via Tibet. Due to the extreme altitude, the train had oxygen masks which dropped from the overhead lockers, just like those on high flying aircraft. As the train climbed higher and higher through the stark and stunning mountain countryside, she recalls seeing a family travelling along a very rocky road -mum, dad and two kids with their possessions loaded on a cart being pulled by a scrawny pony. Not so unusual in rural Tibet, however, they were out in the middle of nowhere, many kilometres from the nearest town or village. She often looks at the photo she snapped and wonders where they were going and if they ever got there. When Rochelle and the Getaway team finally arrived at Base Camp, they discovered their packages and bottles of biscuits, chips and hand creams had all ‘popped’ due to the significant decrease in air pressure. But that was only a minor hindrance as there was more important work to be done. At 5,545 metres above sea level, with thin air, low oxygen and surrounded by jagged peaks coated with brilliant white ice and snow pushing up into a bright blue sky, they commenced filming. Her other fond memory is of an experience somewhat closer to sea level. On a cool hillside covered with terraced lines of manicured tea trees, she met and dined with Mr Merrill J. Fernando, the founding father of Dilmah – the famous Sri Lankan tea
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dynasty, named after Merrill’s two sons Dilhan and Malik. According to Rochelle, Mr Fernando is a very gentle and humble man who sincerely cares for his family, staff and his community – in Sri Lanka and other countries where there are people in need. With the financial success of Dilmah, the first Sri Lankan tea company to grow, process, package and promote their own teas, charitable and conservation foundations have been set up and funded by Dilmah in a number of countries to undertake charitable and conservation projects. But what remains strong in Rochelle’s memory of this meeting is the thrill and joy shown by Mr Fernando when meeting the Getaway team. “He was so excited to meet us because we came all the way from Australia to see and film his passion and life’s work”, she said. Now a mother of two young children, Rochelle is doing less globe-trotting. However, she still commutes each week between Coffs, Sydney and other locations around Australia filming and producing segments for The Block and No leave No Life. Her routine just now is a weekly commute to Sydney for at least two days per week, then back to Coffs. At her home office, with a mini production suite, she prepares the segments for the two shows, despatches them to Sydney for final editing and then gets on with the next task – looking after her children or checking flight times in preparation for another filming in Sydney or somewhere around Australia. Sometimes both. And some news just in; Rochelle has just advised she could be returning to her travel roots as there are some special projects in the pipeline once again with Getaway, so stay tuned. Matthew Miller is a more recent convert to living the doubly good life. His work week starts like that of many other
the office sooner than other colleagues who commute from Sydney suburbs or the Blue Mountains or the Southern Highlands. In his office, with computers, graphs, charts and a team of finance colleagues, Matthew lives and works for four days each week developing policy that governs the bank’s lending activities. In the current climate with so much uncertainty in world financial markets, this is a very demanding role keeping Matthew extremely busy. While most work is Sydney based, Matthew has a number of his team in Adelaide and regularly travels there to oversee projects and people as part of his responsibilities. His Sydney work-week (as above) usually ends every Thursday evening, when the forward journey is reversed. Matthew leaves the office at 5.00pm, catches the evening return flight to Coffs and is back to his hinterland home and precious family by 8.30 pm. Then, Fridays in the home office and the weekend with family and friends enjoying life in the country. “It was important for me to get some work life balance and allow our son to grow up in the country rather than the hustle and bustle of hectic city life,” said Matthew. “Living on Coffs Coast and working in Sydney works for me because of three key things; first, I have a great employer who allows this flexibility so long as the job is done, the second is that my family is very supportive and we spend the weekends doing things together and the third, is that with so many daily flights between Coffs, Sydney and beyond, I can easily get to work and home again very quickly.” According to Matthew, for the past two years he has been fortunate to enjoy the benefits of working in the city and living in the country. And he is looking forward to many more based from his peaceful family home on Coffs Coast. James Parker is another fly-away, fly-home executive. But more by default rather than by design. James Parker
Matthew Miller
people. Getting up at 5.30am to be in the office by 9.00am. However, his main commute is not by car, bus or train but rather a morning flight from Coffs Harbour Airport to Kingsford Smith Airport then by train to Kent Street, Sydney where he is a senior manager for Westpac. With a wry smile, Matthew commented that although he travels further, he is often in
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After many years in the finance and publishing industry, James moved from Sydney to Coffs Harbour to take up the position of
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general manager of the Coffs Coast Advocate. With his ‘new set of eyes’ James initiated changes to the newspaper to keep the business progressive and profitable, a challenge in the quickly changing world of mass communication. It was during this period that he also saw future opportunities when it was time for him to move on to other corporate life challenges. In November 2006, he resigned from the newspaper and started Jetty Research. According to James there were no Coffs Coastbased researchers, and few (if any) market and social research services dedicated to regional clients. He saw the opportunity and took it. With offices and a call centre in Coffs Harbour, Jetty Research’s 16-person team now conducts a wide range of social, commercial and academic research projects. Telephone polls, on-line surveys and focus group sessions are just some of the tools used to gain insights into how people are thinking so clients – be they public or private - are better equipped to provide services for their respective customers or communities. From the start, James saw the company establishing a solid reputation for providing clients with simple, credible and useful research. His first customers were locally based and it seems, very satisfied with the services provided. So much so that positive word of mouth quickly spread further afield – throughout the region and to Sydney. Now, Jetty Research is spreading its wings. Being based in Coffs Harbour has benefits for Jetty Research and its clients. In addition to using the latest research and analytical software systems the company invested in training and now has a pool of highly skilled researchers including senior undergraduate and post-graduate students from Coffs Harbour based Southern Cross University. This means high-quality data gathering can be undertaken regionally, without the high cost overheads encountered by city-based researchers. This has proven a winning combination for Jetty Research. According to James around 50 per cent of business is now sourced from Sydney. When asked if he would move the business elsewhere, James had a firm response. “Why?” he said. “This is the perfect place, I have a great team, we have a modern health campus, excellent education providers, frequent air services, relaxed country lifestyle and as my wife says we can always get a rock-star parking spot at the beach.” James commented that his city clients are often surprised that he readily agrees to meet them in Sydney. They are also surprised when he tells them that both QantasLink and Virgin Australia service Coffs Coast with up to seven flights per day. And many express their envy when James tells them of our great lifestyle, living and working on Coffs Coast. Every day there are many local, talented and entrepreneurial people like David, Rochelle, Matthew and James who regularly pass through Coffs Harbour Airport on their way to work – in Sydney, around Australia and around the world. And they all fly home again, to a doubly good life on Coffs Coast. n
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BE MOTIVATED BY MICHELLE BY BETTINA MANIATIS
I
t’s the beginning of the year, and statistically weight loss is at the top of the list for New Years resolutions throughout Australia. So, with this year’s Biggest Loser looking like the best season yet, I took some time out with one of the show’s inspirational Personal Trainers, Michelle Bridges, and I can tell you, this girl is seriously passionate about fitness. B: Michelle, a lot of our readership is within the mining and resources industry, and their lifestyle can be very different to those who work the average 9 to 5 job - so for those wanting to lose weight in this scenario, but with no idea where to begin, where might they start? M: So much of it is about getting organised –having a plan and getting into a routine. Given the fact that the mining community work in shift work, that’s not all that easy I know, but just thinking ahead and planning week to week, even month to month if it’s at all possible so they can really work around it and start thinking about their nutrition and their training. Get a plan, get a diary. Really go and really try and map out time to get on with your training and with your shopping. So for example if you are in the mines, with regards to meals, set it up so you have healthy nutritional food available to you and you can do a cook up on the weekend, or when you’re at home and you can put that in the freezer and you can very easily defrost it in the microwave and maybe add a bag of salad or steamed vegetables
or something. It’s about having that organisation. So I really recommend having that plan. Also, I really recommend training before or after work, because you know once you go back to your room, it’s really difficult to get back out again. Either on your way to work or straight after work. And try and make it a regular time slot to make it a part of your life. B: OK, now for me personally, and for a lot of our readers, motivation might be an issue…
excuse. That said, you can be motivated by setting yourself goals. You might want to get fit for a fun run or you might want to fit into a pair of pants – there’s your goal right there. Set yourself up for little mini goals to get yourself to your major goals. If you want motivation though, why wait until you’re being told you are a diabetic and you have to take this medication for the rest of your life? Why wait until you have a heart attack and you’re in hospital? Why wait until the choice is removed from you when you have the choice in your hands right now?
M: Motivation’s a funny thing. I think motivation is like a bad boyfriend – it’s never there when you need it. So many people tend to hang their hats on motivation and use that as an excuse. So when you ask why they’re not eating healthy or exercising, you just get: “oh, I’m just not motivated.”
What about the people who have children? Have you considered the fact that you might not be around to see your child get married? Take a look around – you don’t see very many old obese or heavily overweight people. If you’re obese, you’re lucky to make it to over 50.
I know as a human being, and as a personal trainer, you’re not always going to be motivated. I don’t wake up at 5 in the morning and go: “wooo bring on that 10K run! Yeahhh.” You know, I just don’t. Some mornings I have a bit of a spring in my step, but some mornings I’m just “urghhhh.”
B: So for those who are quite active, can you tell me how they know if they’re being active enough? Are there some tell-tale signs that you’re doing a good ‘work out’?
Personally - I’m motivated by that!
So I just get into robot mode; get my shoes on and get out the door and don’t let my head start thinking because then it’ll be like “oh maybe I’ll just train this afternoon,” or “oh it’s just one session.” So yes, I think motivation can be a bit of an
M: Well one of the biggest tell tale signs over and above in terms of intensity, I think, the most critical element is consistency. I think if you’re doing something every day, more power to you and congratulations. If you’re doing something every day, 30 to 40 to 60 minutes a day, preferably, then you are absolutely on the right wicket.
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“I THINK MOTIVATION IS LIKE A BAD BOYFRIEND IT’S NEVER THERE WHEN YOU NEED IT.” – MICHELLE BRIDGES With regards to actual intensity, there are a few ways you can monitor that. I love using my heart rate monitor and watching my heart rate go up and down and I use it as bit of a game during my workout – so spiking my heart rate and bringing it back down again. Or you know, I’ll tell myself I need to burn 500 or 600 calories during my workout before I can finish – my heart rate monitor tells me that. Another way without even having to use technology is if you can say your name and address easily, then you’re not working hard enough. If you can barely get your phone number out, or not even, then you know you’re working at a good intensity. If you are a regular exerciser, I totally recommend getting a heart rate monitor though. But the most important thing is consistency, consistency, consistency. B: Now the new season of Biggest Loser is underway - tell us how you feel about the contestants this year and how they compare to some of the contestants we’ve seen in the past? M: They’re doing fabulously. We have some contestants that hit the ground running and they want it, want it, want it and then we have others who fight the system, think it’s what they want to do and then they get in there and and think “urghhhh it’s all too hard.”
Do you want to reach the Mines in P.N.G. & Northern Queensland?
(Cairns) Australia & P.N.G. Mining Resources Expo Organised by Inflight Publishing / Trade Show Organisers
Cairns 12th & 13th October, 2012.
And of course that’s the beauty of watching the show is you see all these different personalities, on the same journey. Ultimately they all lose weight. There’s no way they can’t. We feed them healthy food, we move their bodies and they drop the weight really easily. And you see every individual journey. In comparison to other years gone by, they’re doing really well. I’m really loving this season – I think it’s probably one of our better ones. B: You’ve been doing Biggest Loser for a number of years now and there are some pretty inspirational stories. Can you tell us some moments that have really stuck out for you, or even if you have one favourite memory so far? M: I’ve had so many memories and moments and exhilarating times and humbling experiences, to try and think of one would be tough. But I do have to say that doing the marathon two or three years ago, that was extraordinary. I’ve done a marathon. I know how hard they are. Admittedly, I ran mine and they walked – but ultimately they did it. They did 42.2km. And you know, if they can do a marathon, any body can do a marathon. B: One of the things I’ve always wondered is how some of the people on the show start out so large - How do they get to that point? And what could some of the warning signs be as to whether you’re on that path? M: I think when I talk to people, a lot of them bury their head in the sand. They just don’t want to know about it. It’s all too hard. A lot of them say they didn’t realise how big they had gotten until they look back. And for some of them, it’s because their doctors have told them they have got to do something about their weight. For others, it’s just the clothes just keep getting bigger, the messages just keep getting louder, they can’t find anywhere to sit down in a restaurant, they can’t find a seat on the plane - it’s just constant messages. The belt buckles just keep going up up up up. Or in the case of this season, because they’re singles, they realise they’re just watching their life go by, and it’s because their weight is holding them back. n
Enquiries - Patrick Ph: (07) 3891 7793 patrick@inflightmagazine.com.au
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& H
e’s handsome. She’s gorgeous. Separately, they’re two of the world’s biggest country music superstars. Together, they’re an “I don’t how do they do it” mega force. Husband and wife, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill have dominated music charts across the world since the early 90s, generated 70 million album sales and earned eight Grammys and 46 US #1’s between them. They’ve been happily married 14 years and on top of being mum and dad to three teenage daughters, they star in movies and have been immortalised as Barbie dolls made in their likeness. This March, McGraw and Hill will tour Australia together for the very first time; their first joint
McGraw Hill
HEADING TO AUSSIE SHORES tour outside North America and the first time they’ll have toured together in five years. “This tour, Tim and Faith performing together, is exclusive to us in Australia,” said promoter Michael Chugg. “They’re not doing this any where else in the world right now.” “We don’t ever want anyone to get tired of us,” McGraw told Australian radio last year speaking of the couple’s five year hiatus. “We look at it as three different careers - Faith has her career, I have my career and we have our career together, we don’t ever want to overdo that. “It’s special to us and we want it to be special for everyone else.” The couple has toured together only three times and all in North America – first in 2000, then 2006
and 2007. Their 2006/2007 tours made them the highest-grossing country music tour of all time and the highest-grossing tour that year, full stop, across any genre, beating out the likes of Madonna, Tom Petty and Crosby, Stills & Nash. For this upcoming concert, they will perform individually and together. Their shows will feature each of their massive hits including McGraw’s Live Like You Were Dying, Everywhere, Real Good Man and Hill’s Breathe, This Kiss and The Way You Love Me, as well as their duets It’s Your Love, Let’s Make Love and I Need You. Tickets for all shows are available from www.ticketek.com.au or by calling 132 849. n
SHOW DATES DATE Friday 16 March Sunday 18 March Tuesday 20 March Wednesday 21 March Friday 23 March Saturday 24 March Sunday 25 March Tuesday 27 March
CITY Adelaide, SA Hunter Valley, NSW Melbourne, VIC Melbourne, VIC Brisbane, QLD Brisbane, QLD Brisbane, QLD Sydney, NSW
VENUE Adelaide Ent. Centre (Arena) CMC Rocks the Hunter Rod Laver Arena Rod Laver Arena (NEW SHOW) Brisbane Ent. Centre (SOLD OUT) Brisbane Ent. Centre (SOLD OUT) Brisbane Ent. Centre Allphones Arena
INFLIGHT PUBLISHING HAS TICKETS TO GIVEAWAY TO THE SYDNEY, MELBOURNE AND BRISBANE SHOWS!
For your chance to win, simply email us at info@inflightmagazine.com.au with your name, mailing address, preferred city and the answer to this question: How long have Tim and Faith been married? Competition closes at midnight on the 19th March 2012.
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FunThings For Tight Times BY FRAN SIDOTI OF SAVINGSGUIDE.COM.AU
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he beginning of the year is a time of belt-tightening. The whirl of Christmas and New Years is over, work is here and many of us will be looking for ways to save money and get back on track financially. While you might be putting every spare dime into your neglected savings, or trying to pay off your December credit card bill, it doesn’t mean life has to be a misery. Here are some things to keep you entertained while also keeping you solvent, inspired by Donna Freedman at MSN Money.
Get Some Learning It might seem like a much less appealing prospect than conking out in front of the telly, but learning a new skill or hobby has a lot of benefits. Firstly, it’s a much better way to relax as keeping your mind engaged on something you enjoy is a great stress release. Secondly, all the skills you learn might end up being something you can use in your career or as a second income. The Internet is your friend here. Type in anything you want to learn- how to write a novel, best DIY tips etc. The Internet is full of sites that can assist you in translation, step-bystep beginner courses and pronunciation.
Get Outside
Become The Can-Do Chef
So often when we’re saving, we fall into the mindset that we need to stay inside to save ourselves from spending any money. Not the case. Now is a wonderful time in Australia to hit the beach or go for a bushwalk. Pack a lunch, and keep your spending budget to under $10. Start star-gazing, and learning the constellations. Get interested in bird-watching, photography or landscape drawing. There are so many fantastic things we can do for no cost in the great outdoors, and your mental state will thank you for it.
Time for a challenge. Your partner, kids, friends, whoever, need to make dinner entirely from what is in the pantry. No cheating, no popping to the store for a little bit of saffron. This is hardcore savings time. Google your ingredients and recipes are sure to come up. You’ll save money on your grocery bill, and will use up all the excess stock in your cupboard. Or why not try and make things you usually have to buy, like yogurt or sourdough bread? I’ve been experimenting with making the wondrous creation of nougat (an ongoing project), and there are a thousand ways you can save money by spending a little time making (generally expensive) items yourself for a third of the price. Freedman also has this suggestion, which I love. A wine-tasting party to find the best tasting cheap wine. Every one has some plonk they think is a bargain, so get your friends around to find the best wine for the best price. Everyone can bring their contender and some nibbles, having a great evening for no cost.
Club Cubs Our friendships are a huge positive in our lives, and getting social is one of the best ways to keep our mental state cheery (an important thing when your finances are less than delightful). Why not make the most of your wonderful network and start a club? It can be anything! Common examples are book clubs and exercise groups, but get creative about it. What about an arts club, or a spinners group? It’s about like-minded people doing things they enjoy- what could be better?
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7/02/12 1:34 PM
Nowhere like Newcastle
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estled in the heart of the Hunter Region is the beachside city of Newcastle. A top ten city in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel 2011’ guide, Newcastle has a rich history, quirky arts culture and a thriving dining and shopping scene. Newcastle is a city that is always changing, a city with world class business, research and industry, and a city of hardworking genuine people. Whether you’re travelling to the region for a visit or looking for a place to settle down, there is endless choice in Newcastle. There are few cities in the world beyond Newcastle that can say their city centre is surrounded by eight beaches. Merewether, Newcastle, Nobbys, and Bar Beach in particular are popular surfing and fishing locations, and are conveniently located close to the city centre. Ride the wave of surfing culture that characterises the city and join the locals for an early morning dip, or lunch break surf. Swim in the art deco Newcastle Ocean Baths (opened in 1922), and have fish and chips at the Canoe Pool, built in the late 1930s for young swimmers.
Take a moment to sit and watch the port in action and be amazed as giant 300m freight ships, close enough to touch, are guided into the harbour by comparatively tiny tugs and a
commanding position guarding the Hunter River Estuary. Overlooking another famous historic site, Nobbys head lighthouse, the Fortress has a long and interesting military history. Revisit Newcastle’s convict past with a trip to the convict-hewn Bogey Hole, built around 1820 for the personal use of Commandant James T. Morriset. Located beneath a rocky prominence that gets battered during rough seas, the Bogey Hole is a feat of architecture.
pilot flown out to each ship by helicopter. This city is the biggest exporter of coal in the world. Sharing the harbour with coal ships are freight ships, fishing boats, ferries, yachts, kayaks and private vessels, making for a chaotic but exciting scene. Newcastle is the ideal place to catch some culture, with a cluster of galleries and boutiques along Darby Street, Newcastle East and Cooks Hill. Watch a performance at the spectacularlyrestored Art Deco Civic Theatre, which presents an amazing, diverse range of shows. Or visit Newcastle Art Gallery, one of Australia’s leading regional galleries with a magnificent collection from local, national and international artists and a full schedule of impressive travelling exhibitions. For a walk through Newcastle’s history tour the Fort Scratchley Historic Site, with its
To satisfy your appetite, Newcastle offers a diverse range of dining. Sip cocktails at a one of the many harbourside Honeysuckle restaurants with bustling maritime views by day and glittering shores by night. Dine in cosmopolitan Beaumont Street, home to a range of Mediterranean restaurants and quirky sidewalk cafes. Check out the live music at one of the many local pubs around the city and finish up with late night coffee at funky inner city Darby Street. For those looking for fine dining, go no further than Newcastle city centre, a busy business precinct with a smattering of first class restaurants. Newcastle East also boasts a range of fine dining restaurants with sweeping views of the harbour and beaches. n
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How
Art
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Good Sports Like a promising race horse, aspects of a painting’s value can be found in its track record. How and where it has been on show, its performance and provenance. If it belongs to a well-known artist, it will be starting the race with favourable odds through its inherent breeding. There is also value in understanding the narrative and artist’s motivation for the image. A good painting will surely “speak” to you. Another way to lift an artwork’s game is by teaming it up with a high profile personality.
BY CELIA BERRELL
Gains Value
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hether you are viewing a painting for its inspiration or investment potential, there are ways that enhance the appreciation process both for the viewer and the painting. How can we really tell if a painting is good or not? The beauty or impact of a painting can be a very personal thing. But there’s more to valuable art than just a pretty face.
Being rich or famous doesn’t automatically give someone cultural credibility. However being a philanthropist, art patron or sporting sponsor can. And any creative items they support tend to gain credibility from this relationship. We find many celebrities share their success through charitable foundations or as ambassadors of awareness for worthy causes. For example, Layne Beachley helps young women reach their dreams through her Aim for the Stars Foundation. Many celebrities are also private art collectors.
Over 300 world leaders from differing fields have been associated with Davson’s creative endeavours including cricket legend Ian Chappell, Surfing World Champions Mark Richards and Layne Beachley, Tennis Number One John Newcombe AO, co-owner of Newman Haas racing Carl Haas, World Champion F1 and IndyCar Champion Sir Nigel Mansell, and World Champion F1 driver and constructor Sir Jack Brabham.
Can you match the following celebrities (1-4) to the artist (A-D) whose work they have bought: 1. David Beckham - A C Milan footballer 2. Pat Farmer - Australian Ultra-Marathon runner 3. Hugh Grant - British Actor 4. Val Kilmer - American Actor
A. Damien Hirst B. Roxy Paine C. Sharon Davson D. Andy Warhol
Answers: 1A, 2C, 3D, 4B
Turning Point Davson the artist has taken sporting and art affiliations to a new level. Last year, she became the first artist to sponsor an international sporting event. Australia’s UltraMarathon star Pat Farmer has completed his incredible Pole to Pole run and Davson is one of the sponsors of Pat’s 21,000 kilometre run through 14 countries (see www.pole2polerun.com). “A decade ago, I was so impressed with her art that I commissioned her to create a painting for me,” Mr Farmer said. “She did, and it is a beautiful visual narrative of my life.” The commissioned painting, Turning Point, echoes his breakthrough of inner strength and tranquillity through inspired mental determination on these ultra-long marathons. Creating art works about Pat’s Pole to Pole run, which he undertook in support of Red Cross clean water projects, is one aspect of Davson’s sponsorship. 2011 was a year of ‘turning points’ for Davson as well. This includes the sale of On the Ark of Salvation, which set a new sales record at $1.3 million for a painting by a living Australian artist. Such achievements are a result of significant activities from both the art and the artist. Throughout her career, she has gained reputation and representation within public and private art collections, presented major survey exhibitions which toured in
Enduring Spirit
www.davsonart.com
by Celia Berrell
The power to last the distance etches footprints in the sky and stamps true words upon the path below. Horizons drawn from hopes and dreams beguile the focussed eye. Endurance goes beyond the page of everything we know. public galleries and participated in a range of affiliated initiatives. Unlike the share market and some other forms of investment, over the past three decades, Davson’s art has doubled in value approximately every five years. This occurs through activities that go beyond the art of painting itself. A good painting will have a track record of its valued achievements and pedigree in progress. Contact Davson Art to learn more about investing in art, why Davson’s work has returned approximately 20% per annum growth for collector / investors for over two decades, and how her original art can enhance your super fund. Enjoy the benefits… mobile: 0416 026 426 email: sharon@davsonart.com
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Boarding School…
St Vincent’s College Potts Point A day and boarding school for girls Years 7-12 Ph: (02) 9368 1611 www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au
WHY CONSIDER IT?
BY RICHARD STOKES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT THE AUSTRALIAN BOARDING SCHOOLS ASSOCIATION (WWW.BOARDING.ORG.AU)
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A world of possibilities for your daughter in the heart of Sydney. Discover our community today. Monday 12 March 2012 Twilight Open Evening, 4pm to 6pm
Wednesday 13 June 2012 Open Day, 10am to 1pm
ast issue, I discussed the future of boarding schools and the many options that parents have in these current times. This issue, I’m going to delve into why parents might consider sending their child to a boarding school in the first place. A boarding school provides a real community for those within. The opportunity to be a part of a group is one we all crave and when young people live together, they develop excellent relationships with those others in the community. There is no better structure for our young people in which to build their social skilling. With the changing types of boys and girls becoming boarders with the ever decreasing rural population, the single parent families, the working parents, the kids out of control, and those looking for the status of being a boarder amongst others pose many challenges, but the routines and structures provided by our boarding schools are second to none. Boarding house staff are optimistic about the possibility that happiness will take place in the boarding house in spite of occasional setbacks or failures. Under the guidance of such house staff, boarders get the feeling that success is possible and those goals of learning can be obtained. Good communication, cohesiveness, and morale are all causes and effects of positive group activity. n
He’s on a good wicket HSC Highlights Australian Tertiary Admission Rank scores – ATAR 8 students (6.3%) ATAR 99 or above 25 students (20%) ATAR 95 or above 50 students (40%) ATAR 90 or above 88 students (70%) ATAR 80 or above – Dux: Rupert Coy and Luca Moretti (equal) ATAR 99.8 – 10 boys received Premier’s Awards – 2nd in the state: Japanese Extension – Drama: 66% achieved highest band
Find out more about the boarding opportunities for boys in Years 7–12. For more information call (02) 9327 9000 or email enrol@cranbrook.nsw.edu.au 5 Victoria Road Bellevue Hill NSW 2023 www.cranbrook.nsw.edu.au
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– English Extension: 33% achieved highest band – History Extension: 33% achieved highest band – Legal Studies: over 40% achieved highest band – 176 merits (90% or more in one subject): • 28 in English • 51 in Mathematics
SUSPENSION CHANGES
Holiday Drivers Caught Out by Tricky Changes as they Load up Suspensions
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ven experienced drivers can get caught out over the holiday season by changes in the performance of their vehicle’s suspension that occur when they hook up a caravan, boat or trailer or load up their campers for extended trips. “A perfectly familiar vehicle can change into a safety risk if it is overloaded, unevenly loaded or subjected to widely varying loads,” said supplementary air suspension specialist, James Maslin.
The heavier loads on brakes, suspensions and vehicle frames generate hazards that can remain hidden until a heavily loaded vehicle runs afoul of poor roads, bad weather, inadequate brakes or overloaded springs. The issue applies to a wide range of vehicles, extending from family cars to tradesmen’s utes, 4wds, vans, campers and grey nomads’ huge diversity of vehicles.
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“It is a growing safety concern, with about 330,000 recreational vehicles now registered in Australia – and around 75,000 caravanners on extended tour at any one time, often in the outback,” National Sales Manager of All Air Suspension, Mr Maslin said. All Air suspension provides a solution to the problem of needing one suspension setting for ordinary driving and another when towing. The company’s distribution network – working nationally with Airbag Man offers Firestone Coil-Rite supplementary air suspensions with durable polyurethane airbags that fit inside existing coil springs to provide levelling control to a vehicle when under load, providing comfort and stability. The system (and the complementary Ride-Rite system for leaf-spring vehicles) enables owners of towing vehicles and work and recreational vehicles to adjust for varying loads and road conditions by simply inflating or deflating the airbag, just like inflating a tyre. The Coil-Rite system provides extra support for front and rear coil springs in cars, vans, 4WD's, SUV's and motorhomes. CoilRite supplementary air springs are used for front-to-rear and side-to-side levelling control of a vehicle. This enables a vehicle to "level up" when towing caravans, boats and trailers or when a vehicle is carrying heavy, uneven loads. Coil-Rites are engineered to withstand the rigours dished out to coil sprung
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suspensions over widely varying road surfaces. Each set will support 250-500kg (subject to the vehicles gross vehicle weight rating), providing comfort and stability to a vehicle.
Reasons for fitting Coil-Rite systems include: • • • • • • •
Maintaining a level vehicle – with adjustability for different conditions Maximising safe load carrying capacity Increasing vehicle stability and braking performance Improving steering, balance and ride quality Greatly reducing "bottoming out" and reducing coil suspension fatigue Keeping headlights aimed on the road – not up in the face of oncoming traffic Reducing tyre wear
For further information or the name of local fitting specialists, visit www.allair.com.au n
SUZUKI REVEALS 2012 GSX-R1000 T
he hotly anticipated 2012 model of the championship-winning Suzuki GSX-R1000 has been unveiled, featuring class-mastering performance, cutting-edge technology, design and engineering. Significantly lighter than its predecessors, the sixth generation GSX-R1000 is the ultimate fusion of performance and design and delivers more mid-range power and acceleration. Suzuki’s flagship sportsbike, the GSX-R1000 is an unsurpassed package, powered by a 999cc, four-cylinder, liquidcooled, DOHC engine delivering 136kW of power and featuring Suzuki’s Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) fuel-injection system and a phenomenal power-to-weight ratio. In the 2012 model, Suzuki engineers have made significant improvements across the machine, including 11 per cent lighter and stronger pistons, revised crankcases with newly designed ventilation holes, a modified exhaust camshaft profile and increased engine compression ratio. The GSX-R1000 now features a four into
one exhaust system and a newly designed titanium muffler, dramatically improving the machine’s agility and handling as a result of its lighter weight. Delivering even more advanced stopping power, the GSX-R1000 now uses dual Brembo monoblock calipers and new disc rotors, both of which are significantly lighter than the previous front brake package. The class-defining GSX-R1000 is packed with race-bred technology, including Suzuki’s original Drive Mode Selector (S-DMS) which offers a selection of three performance settings to suit riding conditions and a slipper clutch. With a twin-spar cradle frame, made from just five cast aluminium-alloy sections, and the revised Showa Big Piston Forks (BPF) with a 5mm shorter stroke and softer suspension setting to accommodate the lighter weight, the GSX-R1000 offers supreme handling at racetrack speeds. New for 2012 is the high-grip seat cover for the rider and pillion to increase rider stability under acceleration or deceleration, combining with the adjustable footrests for a smooth ride. Completing an impressive package, the
GSX-R1000 instrument cluster includes a lap time counter, adjustable shift light and gear position indicator, as well as speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters and LED indicators. The GSX-R1000’s striking good looks are highlighted by the new pin stripes on the wheels and updated GSX-R graphics adorning the new colour schemes. The GSX-R1000 has an impressive racing pedigree and since its introduction over a decade ago, has won multiple championships, including four Australian Superbike Championships. Available in Australia early now, the 2012 Suzuki GSX-R1000 comes in a choice of two colour schemes, Metallic Triton Blue / Glass Splash White or Metallic Matt Black / Glass Sparkle Black and is backed by Suzuki’s two-year, unlimited kilometre warranty. For further information on the 2012 Suzuki GSX-R1000, interested customers should visit their local Suzuki dealer, found through the Dealer Locator on www.suzuki.com.au n
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THINK OUTSIDE THE HOTEL ROOM
You’ll feel right at home when staying at Quest Wagga Wagga – 4 ½ star serviced apartment accommodation.
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raditionally hotels are a place to rest your head at the end of the day however increased competition and sophisticated travellers have driven properties to differentiate themselves through unique characteristics. A Microbrewery Rydges Campbelltown Hotel in Sydney has made it possible to have a beer after a hard day with its own contemporary bar with a working micro brewery.
Nightly, weekly and monthly stays available. Enjoy modern serviced apartments fully self contained with kitchen and laundry facilities.
Man Made Aquarium Why not go snorkelling in a man-made aquarium or laze on a private beach at the Marriott Surfers Paradise Resort on the Gold Coast.
69 Gurwood Street Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Email: questwaggawagga@questapartments.com.au
A Whale Watching Station Quarterdecks Harbour Retreat in Hervey Bay makes it possible for whale lovers to spot a glimpse of the giant mammals. The hotel offers organised scenic flights and tours to see the whales during the months of July to October.
www.questwaggawagga.com.au or call (02) 6923 7000
Glass Bottom Hotel Set in The Rocks in Sydney, The Sebel Pier One is built on and over the water. The lobby features glass flooring that looks down onto the harbour.
The Quest Serviced Apartment Group – over 120 properties throughout Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.
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Log onto flightcentre.com.au to search, book and securely pay for accommodation online or phone 1300 939 414 for more information. n
20/01/12 4:10 PM
Cedarwood Apartments
OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND Y
ou’d think somewhere like the Australian Alps would be dead over the summer season… but you’d be very mistaken with the Falls Creek region offering a number of enticing options in the warmer months. Unlike other Australian Alps properties, Cedarwood Apartments, located in beautiful Falls Creek - North East Victoria, has accommodation to rent all year round – and you’ll find holidaying there in the summer months certainly has its benefits. “One of the benefits of coming here in summer is that our prices are much lower,” said manager Narelle Clark. “In fact, you’re looking at paying less than half of the peak rates so it’s extremely good value.” But it’s not just value for money that makes a
summer holiday at Falls Creek worth your while with activities abound. “Believe it or not, there’s actually a lot more to do in the summer than winter,” Narelle said. “In winter, if you’re not a skier there aren’t a lot of options, but in summer you can go mountain biking, hiking, bird watching, kayaking, do photography – you name it!” Additionally, Cedarwood Apartments is actually the highest building in the area meaning the views are second to none and the silence is almost deafening. “Another benefit to summer is that it’s very quiet,” Narelle added. “There are also a number of festivals and events over the season including the Falls Creek Singles Festival over the New Years weekend, the 2XU triathlon, Billy Cart
Derby, 3Peaks Cycling challenge, Easter Festival to mention a few. “You can’t get a resort where there’s so much to do and Cedarwood’s big roomy apartments are a big advantage over other properties.” To book or find out more about Falls Creek, visit the Cedarwood Apartments website at www.cedarwoodfallscreek.com n
Open all year round! For fun, friendly & affordable self contained accommodation in the heart of Falls Creek North East Victoria during summer and winter.
Cedarwood Apartments - 11 Schuss Street Falls Creek - North East Victoria P 03 5783 3393 E cedarwo@bigpond.net.au W www.cedarwoodfallscreek.com
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Marvellous
Muttonbird M
uttonbird Island, at Coffs Harbour is a part-time home to thousands of Wedgetailed Shearwater, commonly called Muttonbirds. It is also a favourite haunt for thousands of Coffs Coasters. Once separated from the shore by some 500 metres of shallow sea, the island is now connected by a breakwall and roadway that harbours the local fishing and cruising fleets in the marina. Before European settlement, the local Gumbaynggirr people called the island Giidany Miirlarl meaning moon place. According to tradition, the moon is the island’s special guardian protecting the muttonbird colony as a food source. Another interesting part of this story is that the moon also protects the bird colony from over harvesting to ensure sufficient food for future generations. Giidany Miirlarl was first visited by Gumbaynggirr people. They are thought to have walked out at low tide across a shallow reef which is now mostly covered by the breakwall. Another part of the story is that Gumbaynggirr ancestors also visited the island, gathered around a campfire and made plans for the next initiation of young men. Then as each new full moon rose from the ocean and tracked across the sky, it renewed life to the island’s plants
and animals. These days, men and women, boys and girls are welcome on Muttonbird Island. And so too are the many thousands of Wedge-tailed shearwaters which are now totally protected. The birds are migratory, travelling each year between the island and the Philippines. Around August the shearwaters return, pair-up, tidy their burrows, mate and incubate their eggs which usually hatch in January. Once hatched, the adult birds are busy fishing daily to feed their young. They leave at dawn and return at dusk. On their return, the island becomes like a noisy crèche full of young children crying out ‘what’s for dinner?’ It can be an eerie and haunting sound. This continues until the young fledglings are ready to fly and fend for themselves. And whether they are ready or not, in early April the adults depart and once again fly north to south-east Asia. About a fortnight later, the fledglings follow. As for locals and visitors to the island, it can be a similar story. Throughout the day, you will find the more athletic folk walking, jogging and running over the island. First, across the breakwall, up the short flight of stairs then along the island’s spine to the eastern tip where there is a lookout
National Parks Discovery Ranger Mark Flanders
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Muttonbird Island from breakwater
Fledgling Shearwater
platform and seat. Here, some rest awhile, others turn and immediately head back and some perform exercises and take in the view of the Pacific Ocean. For first time visitors, a walk onto Muttonbird Island can be an experience of light and colour, of sea and sky, sun, wind and wildlife. As you walk along the breakwall, your first encounter is of crusty fishing boats and rows of yachts moored in the marina. This is a working port with fishermen either preparing their boats for departure or unloading their catch for processing in the Coffs Harbour Fishermen’s Co-op, perhaps destined for a meal of fresh fish ‘n chips. Yachts with tall masts and web-like rigging sit bobbing at their berths, some alone, others with crew onboard preparing for a cruise around the nearby Solitary Islands or places unknown. There are the fishing charters and scuba dive operators, busy with their clients preparing for an exciting day on or under the sea. Next, the island itself. At the base of Muttonbird Island is a new, stylish timber and steel interpretation display and meeting place. Colourful panels with words, drawings and images tell of the island’s Aboriginal and European history, environment and current management. It is here that National Parks & Wildlife Aboriginal Discovery Rangers meet people who have booked an island tour. Then it’s up and onto the island via the stairs and the paved walking trail that climbs to the top of the island and the first lookout. Here the view is 360 degrees. North and south, the crescent shaped coast disappears to the horizon, west are the forest clad ranges that roll down to the sea from the 1500metre high-tops of the Great Escarpment and east, the endless sea and sky merging along a squiggly line way in the distance. Immediately below, protected in the marina, fishing
Walkers on the island spine
boats and yachts appear still and at peace. Overhead, riding on winds breasting the island are gulls, terns and kites, wheeling and watching for a catch of their own. From here the pathway meanders another 400 metres or so across the island’s spine to the eastern end and the lookout platform. Immediately below is a small rocky inlet carved over the eons by relentless waves washing away the rock from cracks and fissures. Sometimes you may see rock fishermen trying their luck with rod and reel, at other times, fishing boats with nets extended trawling for prawns and then there are kayakers paddling around on their exercise routine or way in the distance, a cargo ship crawls slowly along the horizon. This is a place to sit, relax and enjoy the sights and salty air. Then it’s time to head back. Either side of the pathway is low level vegetation full of muttonbird burrows. Some burrows have their entrance beside the path which enables you to see how shallow and fragile these nests can be. Be sure to stay on the path. Late in the breeding season, if lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a young one checking the outside world before
disappearing back to the safety of its nest. If you are keen to experience more of these amazing birds and hear how they live, breed and survive, book an evening Discovery Ranger tour with National Parks. But the muttonbirds are not the only wildlife attraction. Between June and November, majestic Humpback whales pass close to the island on their annual migration from and to Antarctica. The island lookouts are ideal places to perch with a pair of binoculars to catch a glimpse of these giants of the deep. Closer to the island’s shore, bottle-nosed dolphins are often seen cruising lazily by, that is until they come across a school of fish. Then their tempo picks up fast. If you prefer to get a closer view of these amazing mammals, book an outing on a whale and dolphin watch cruise with one of the operators based in the marina. So when next on Coffs Coast, on your own, with a loved one or your own tribe, cruise on down to the Coffs Harbour marina and take a stroll across the breakwall, past the boats and onto Muttonbird Island. It’s a must and it’s marvellous. n
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Sunny Sawtell Further Information and Bookings: Coffs Coast Visitor Information Centre Tel. 1300 369 070 www.coffscoast.com.au
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s landing gear is lowered on final approach to Coffs Harbour Airport, more often than not the flight path tracks just west of the beaches and headlands, forests and creeks of Bongil Bongil National Park. Then, to the east, just before touchdown the seaside village of Sawtell flashes past. Travelling at 250 kilometres per hour you only catch a glimpse of the beachside houses, treelined main street, dual headlands and waterways of Boambee and Bonville estuaries. That is, if you know where to look. So, to help you decide to take a slower closer look, here are some of the surprises in store for when you do. The first things you notice as you drive along First Avenue into the village are the gardens and four large fig trees in the centre of the street. The trees long limbs stretch skyward over the roadways and sidewalk verandas as if a mother hen protecting her chicks which gives an intimate feeling to the whole precinct. Underneath are bench tables and seats, lawns with dappled shade and gardens of bright colourful flowers. A perfect place to relax when the time comes, but not yet. Either side of First Avenue is where you will find an eclectic mix of shops and cafes in which to indulge. To make sure you don’t miss any, it is best to start at one end of the street, head down one side then back the other to where you started. For fashionistas, there are boutiques offering seductive clothes, shoes and accessories, some crafted by Australian designers and others by makers from around the world. Being a seaside village with a sub-tropical climate, the creations are mostly colourful and casual. On the flip and opposite side of the street, the local op-shop supplies pre-loved fashions at more conservative prices. So be sure to check out both sides of the street. You just never know where you may find that special outfit.
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With Pacific waves only a stone-throw from First Avenue, there is naturally a surf shop. Beach fashions, bikinis and board shorts, boogie boards and surf boards decorate the shop window and sidewalk. After checking out the fashions, it is time to check out the menus. The cafes are on both sides of the street so depending if you prefer sun or shade, you can decide, east or west. Fresh brewed coffee and muffins and more substantial temptations are always available from sun-up to late afternoon at these relaxed casual eateries - inside or out on the undercover sidewalks. It is also a great place to take in the relaxed casual atmosphere as people promenade on their way to and from the beach and nearby headland. At the end of the day, when the cafes finish for the day, the restaurants, club and pub open for dinner diners. Counter meals and buffet dining are on offer at the club and pub while the restaurants offer more creative cuisine. Depending on your taste, you can choose from a wide selection of dishes. There is local Coffs Coast fish, beef and potatoes from the Dorrigo plateau and oysters from the Nambucca. And depending on each chef’s style, some are created and presented along traditional lines while others have a more Asian influence. Whatever your preferred taste, you will be pleasantly surprised at the choice and quality of Sawtell cuisine and service. But if you prefer to sit under the shady fig trees or on a sunny headland with butcher’s paper, slices of lemon and fresh cooked fish and chips, you can do that too – from midmorning to sunset. Remember we said the beach was only a stone throw away from the main street? It is. It’s about 150 metres to the Sawtell Surf Club. This is the place to swim under the watchful eyes of lifeguards who patrol the beach daily between late September and Anzac Day. Also at the club is another cafe. Serving delicious coffee, deserts
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and lunches this is an idyllic spot to sit, sip and watch the surf. Either side of the surf club are the two headlands that cradle Sawtell. Boambee Headland is north and to the south, Bonville Headland. On Boambee Headland, the vista is over the ocean, estuary and beach to Coffs Harbour and Muttonbird Island. This vantage point also overlooks the airport so you will see commercial aircraft and private planes taking off and touching down throughout the day. The views from Sawtell Headland are stunning. The crescent shaped coastline stretches north and south, east is where the long, straight horizon joins sea to sky and west over estuary waters and tree lined hills is the distant sub-alpine New England plateau butting up to the sky. These two headlands are favourite place for many Sawtellians. Some are surfers who come to check out the waves, others are fishers deciding whether or not to try their luck and some are walkers, runners and cyclists who stop to catch their breath. And many come just for the view, to sit a while and read a magazine, breath the salty air and to enjoy peace and tranquillity – some alone, some with friends. Back at First Avenue there is still more to enjoy. There are shops in which to fossick for bric-a-brac, home wares, antiques and jewellery and for some self pampering, a facial and relaxing massage. And if considering a change of lifestyle and address, the windows of the real estate agents may also appeal. In the meantime, you should consider your next holiday in sunny Sawtell. In addition to the tempting cafes, shops and beaches there is an art deco picture theatre, lawn bowls, crochet and golf clubs and a good choice of accommodation – private apartments, B&B’s, hotel, motels, a resort and a waterside caravan and holiday park. All just a stone throw from the sea and Coffs Harbour Airport. n
Need an Air Taxi? Paul Kelly & Rick Haines
At Your Service
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here at not many airports around Australia with an on-site, full service travel agency. In fact we can’t think of any. But, Coffs Harbour Regional Airport has one – Coffs Coast Travel. With a team of six qualified and experienced travel consultants, Coffs Coast Travel is next to the Airport Administration Office, adjacent to the main terminal building and is open from 8.30am to 5.30pm on weekdays. Two of the team are owners and local identities, Paul Kelly and Rick Haines, and both have been in the travel and airline business for many long, tough, profitable and enjoyable years. Paul‘s first flight experience was when a teenager. He flew on a Butler Airways DC3 (do you remember them?) from the north western NSW town of Baradine to Sydney. That’s a little while ago so he feels he has been in travel since the day he left school - hooked at an early age! Rick on the other hand also started a good few years ago as a tour guide in Europe. That’s a tough gig. Looking after large groups of people from all over the world, making sure they are cared for and enjoying themselves and keeping the tour on schedule requires the patience of a saint and skill of a United Nations diplomat. He did that for seven years. These days, Paul and Rick are supported by a small team of skilled people who assist with looking after Coffs Coast Travel and Coffs Harbour Airport customers. A number of folk who have not previously travelled regularly come to the airport to seek advice and to book and pay for tickets. While QantasLink and Virgin Australia staff can and do assist, they are restricted to their own products and services. But over at Coffs Coast Travel, Dawn, Sarah, Cristi and Cindy are ready, willing and able to provide advice and issue tickets for all airlines and many other travel services such as; accommodation, rental cars, tours, and cruises. And if you are looking after a team of people, they can make arrangements for sporting and common interest travellers too. Between them, they have won awards for their skills and expertise in providing advice and service to leisure and corporate travellers. It’s this kind of service and expertise that customers come to appreciate, especially in times of crisis. Recently, when world-wide aviation was in chaos due to erupting volcanoes in Iceland and Chile, many travellers were left struggling. However, Coffs Coast Travel customers were contacted, advised of the situation, discussed options, and then had their travel plans amended so they could as quickly as possible get on with their holiday or business trip. So the next time you need a helping hand with your travel plans and you are at Coffs Harbour Airport, take the short walk over to Coffs Coast Travel. And talking of helping hands, Paul and Rick’s business also has the contract for QantasLink ground handling at Coffs. So the next time you are flying with QantasLink to or from Coffs, keep watch for who is loading and unloading your baggage from the aircraft. It could be Rick or Paul. Now that’s service. n
Mike JelliffeCoffs Coast Aviation Centre
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o you live on Coffs Coast but work elsewhere around New South Wales and the other states of Australia? If so you are not alone. A recent survey discovered that there are significant numbers of people living on Coffs Coast who travel to many parts of the country for their employment. Many of the respondents indicated they work in the mining sector in north western WA and central and south east Queensland. And there were a high number of people found who regularly commute between Coffs and towns in western New South Wales. The survey results highlighted that the commute for some people is a two day journey due to the long distance travelled and the non-availability of connecting air services. For others, the lack of air services means a very long drive taking up most of their first and last day of their time off. For all people the significant time spent commuting is time they would prefer to spend with family and loved ones at home. Many people indicated that a direct air service between Coffs and their place of work would be welcomed and appreciated. The challenge now is to determine if this is feasible. Airport management is undertaking an assessment of the potential for direct flights from Coffs Harbour to Karratha and possibly other destinations in Western Australia. However there are many other closer destinations that may not be feasible for a large jet aircraft operation that could be serviced by a locally based charter company. Mike Jelliffe of Coffs Coast Aviation Centre, based at Coffs Harbour Airport is now taking up this challenge and asks for your assistance with this task. He is endeavouring to learn how many people travel to various towns and regions of Australia (apart from WA) and how often. If there are sufficient numbers of travellers to one or more locations, then a direct charter service may be feasible. So if you are a mine worker, professional person, government official or a regular traveller to other parts of Australia here’s how you can help. Go to www.coffscoastaviationcentre.com/aircharter,answer the questions then click the submit button. This is a confidential survey. Hopefully there will be sufficient demand to start dedicated air ‘taxi’ services between Coffs Coast and your workplace. And, this could mean less time travelling and more time at home. n
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TALK BACK WITH
Charli Robinson OCCUPATION: Breakfast radio host - SeaFm , TV Host - It’s a Knock Out and The Dirt (my own nightly entertainment radio show nationally).
FAVOURITE TRAVEL DESTINATION AND WHY: I seem to have travelled for work so much internationally that my holidays are happily in Port Stephens, NSW with family. When I have managed to jet off for pleasure my favourite is a train ride through Italy. Stopping at little towns, drinking beautiful wines and eating copious amounts of pasta! My hidden treasures include Asolo and Corinaldo. WHAT DO YOU NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT AND WHY: A universal adapter! Phone chargers, laptops, even hair straighteners are not worth living without. I get so homesick without texting family all the time while away! TRAVEL TIP: During my ten years touring with Hi5 I did a lot of sight-seeing alone. It taught me no matter how beautiful a building, breath taking a mountain or sunset, having someone to share that with makes it so much more memorable and special. I’d take my dad on tour to the UK as much as possible and beers in pubs and old English
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museums were all the more incredible! So my tip, travel with the one you love or friend you make while travelling - and get ready for fun!
MOST EMBARRASSING/FUNNY TRAVEL STORY: My first international trip, I was in Hi5 and I had left my passport beside my bed at my parent’s house, three hours drive from Sydney airport! The rest of Hi5 had to go on their flight, while I waited alone at the airport. It was Christmas and I sat crying, but then a Santa started singing to me to cheer me up! So random but needed! Three hours went by while the most expensive courier ride ever delivered my passport two minutes before the last flight to NZ closed check in! I made it- and my first overseas journey began. I’ve never forgotten my passport again! WHAT’S COMING UP FOR YOU IN 2012? There will be a lot of travel! I’ve just started breakfast radio on the Gold Coast which I love, and still work in Sydney often for my Dirt show. Filming It’s a Knock Out was hilarious fun and a reminder how much I love being in front of the camera. This year, I’ll enjoy my new jobs and make the most of my new coastal life style. n
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