Coffs Harbour Regional Airport Magazine Issue 41

Issue 41 • www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

AIRPORT MAGAZINE

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contents

04 Welcome Letter 05 Hangar Bar

06 Welcome, Mark Cachia 08 Simply The Best

PUBLISHER Patrick McElligott

10 What’s On

patrick@ttmediagroup.com.au

12 Coffs Coast: All Things Sport

EDITOR Aly Eveille

16 Screenwave Festival

aly@ttmediagroup.com.au

18 World Rally Recap 20 It’s Time For Tennis

page 12

DESIGN Melissa Hanwright melissa@ttmediagroup.com.au

22 Puzzles 24 Sydney Spectacular

ADVERTISING & ENQUIRIES

26 Tips For A Fifo Christmas

COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT MAGAZINE

27 Christmas Cooking

Sharon Rose Amos

28 Nervous Flyer? Read This!

29 Holiday Road Travel 30 Free Stuff: Christmas Edition

sharon@ttmediagroup.com.au

page 20

Tennis Photo Network

SKIPPERS INFLIGHT MAGAZINE [WA] Sharon Rose Amos sharon@ttmediagroup.com.au MARINE PUBLICATIONS Sharon Rose Amos sharon@ttmediagroup.com.au THE TRADIE MAGAZINE Sharon Rose Amos sharon@ttmediagroup.com.au PRINTING

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www.spotpress.com.au Coffs Harbour Airport Magazine is published quarterly by Trans Tasman Media. Views expressed in this 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 670, Stones Corner, Qld 4120

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Welcome

The year 2017 will be remembered as a year of significant change and achievement for Coffs Harbour Airport.

T

his would not have been possible without the support, cooperation and understanding of many people, like Coffs Harbour Airport staff, airline partners, tenants, taxi services, rental car operators, maintenance staff, security services, building contractors and Tradies, and the many thousands of people travelling to and from Coffs Coast.

To all, I say a sincere and heartfelt thank you!

During the past 12 months there has been significant change for the better at the airport. There have been terminal extensions inside and out, new tiles and carpets installed, an expansion of the Qantas corporate flight lounge, two new meeting rooms made available for public use, new offices for airline personnel, extended check-in counters have been installed, the second baggage carousel has been upgraded, additional washrooms have been added and an upgrade has occurred at café and bar ‘The Hangar’, which is in the arrivals hall. In addition, there has also been more seating installed for visitors and passengers in the departures lounge, areas have been expanded for the drop off zone for departing passengers, additional security cameras have been installed and the aircraft parking apron has been expanded and upgraded, meaning we can now accommodate five jet aircraft parked simultaneously.

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As you can see from our front cover, I am very pleased to announce that this mighty effort and commitment has been recognised by the Australian Airports Association, bestowing Coffs Harbour Airport the accolade of the premier Large Regional Airport of the Year Award.

Now that these works have been completed, it is time to take a breath and reflect on this achievement, but not to rest on our laurels. There is still more to do to keep Coffs Harbour Airport as a quality and vital community and business facility that helps bring people together from near and far - but that is for the coming year.

For now, I extend to you, your colleagues, friends and family my sincere and best wishes for a shared peaceful and joyful Christmas and the wish that all your plans hopes and dreams are fulfilled in the New Year.

Dennis Martin OAM Airport Manager

RELAX & REFRESH at...

The Hangar espresso cafĂŠ and bar is the latest addition to the list of improvements at Coffs Harbour Airport.

Sitting back in The Hangar looking out from the panoramic windows in the Arrivals Hall, sipping a fresh barista-made coffee or a fine wine is now on option for all guests next visiting the airport. And if you are a little peckish, a selection of pastries and sandwiches are also on offer, as is a range of chilled Australian beer.

Access to The Hangar is via the Arrivals Hall on the south side of the terminal building. This means that you do not have to go through security screening procedures.

Just walk in, order your preferred refreshment, sit back and relax. At times of peak arrivals and departures, watch the comings and goings of aircraft and travellers from near and far and at quiet times, enjoy expansive views of the everchanging shades of light and sky through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

With upgraded Wi-Fi, The Hangar is an ideal place to catch up on news and social happenings or some business prior to departure or while awaiting the arrival of colleagues, friends or family.

If you are a member of a social or special interest club looking for a change-of-scene venue, consider The Hangar for your next meeting or outing. There is seating for up to 40 people at tables of four or, if preferred, tables can be repositioned to accommodate your group at the one combined table. Give The Hangar a call to check availability and best times to suit your group.

The Hangar is now open 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday For further information, phone 0409 820 707 Follow our journey on Facebook www.facebook.com/ thehangarespressobar

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Meet Mark Cachia OUR MAN OF MANY TALENTS

O

nce upon a time, Coffs Harbour Airport’s newest recruit, Mark Cachia lived in King Street in Mascot, not far from Sydney’s busy Kingsford Smith Airport. The young Mark was so intrigued by the many domestic and international aircraft flying overhead that he would often spend hours at the then TAA and Ansett terminals observing airport operations and dreaming of how he could join the aviation industry, which he did in 1983.

Now, 34 years later, Mark is the Commercial and Compliance Manager for Coffs Harbour Airport, bringing a wealth of experience and industry knowledge to the airport team.

His first foray to aviation operations was when he secured a part-time temporary position with Qantas Airways during the busy Christmas holiday period. For a young university student, this was an ideal job as he could walk from home to the airport, be amongst the hustle and bustle of planes and people and earn some much needed cash. His initial duties were all hands-on, including securing stairs and air bridges to aircraft, cracking open aircraft cabin doors, helping people with disabilities board and disembark and general meet-and-greet duties. After six months, much to his surprise and delight, Mark was offered a full-time position as a Qantas Customer Service Agent. Naturally, he said, ‘yes’.

After two years furthering his knowledge in ground operations, Mark was promoted to the Qantas Sales Centre at Sydney International Terminal where he learnt the art of sales and re-issue ticketing. However, in 1988 the travel bug bit as did his desire to see his parent’s homeland, Malta. After travelling around Europe he eventually made it to Malta and landed on his feet securing a job with an aviation business, Sullivan’s Skyways. With his knowledge of operations and sales, Mark was appointed the Front Office

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Manager. During this time he oversaw the company’s transition from bookings-on-request teletype technology to real-time digital reservations and administration systems. Although he enjoyed this role and the Mediterranean lifestyle, after 18 months family matters drew Mark back home to Sydney and Qantas.

Between 1988 and 2009, he undertook a number of key roles and assignments for Qantas in Australia and overseas. First at Sydney Airport, Mark was responsible for reservations ticketing, excess baggage and international transfers, before being promoted to Customer Service Training Facilitator. After four years training new recruits Mark’s career progressed once again, becoming responsible for overseeing ground operations for Qantas’ client airlines at Sydney International Airport, including Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand, Thai Airways, Air China, Philippine Airlines and Air Canada. Mark and his team were responsible for staff supervision, customer check-in and ground operations. They were good at what they did, too, winning the Singapore Airlines Excellence in Customer Service Award in 1995.

With his highly developed team management and customer service skills and expertise in ground-handling operations, Mark was tasked to Argentina in 1997 to oversee the induction and training of Qantas’ local Buenos Ares staff. The six weeks he spent in Argentina proved a great success, so much so that he was promoted, once again, becoming Qantas’ Manager of International Airports. During this time he oversaw and was responsible for the operations in Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, Fiji, Indonesia, South Africa and India. After a few years he was once again on the move, this time becoming responsible for Qantas’ security and regulatory compliance, overseeing the appointment of

APARTMENTS Located in the heart of the Coffs Harbour Jetty area, and the closest accommodation you will find to the beautiful Coffs Harbour International Marina, and renowned Jetty Beach.

security service providers, security infrastructure installations and operations of checked-baggage screening and security personnel management and training.

After enjoying this role for around 18 months, Mark took on new and challenging roles for Qantas. He was tasked to explore options to improve operating efficiency. This resulted in Mark leading the Qantas team which developed and introduced e-ticketing, automated baggage re-ticketing of delayed flights and the introduction of policy and procedures for the management of the airline’s major disruption events.

In 2009 the airline industry experienced a world-wide fundamental restructure and Mark decided to leave the industry, taking a redundancy package from his beloved Qantas. He immediately stepped into an operations manager role for MSS Security. After a short time in this position he stepped up to become MSS’ General Manager of Aviation, which he transformed into a successful business unit, responsible for over 1,000 employees, 36 airport and airline clients and generating annual revenue of $70 million. This is quite an achievement for the young man who was once a university student working in a part-time job at Sydney Airport.

1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with generous balconies or patios for outside living.

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However, after many years in the hustle and bustle of Sydney and assignments overseas away from his family, Mark, in consultation with his wife and three teenage children, decided it was time to look for a change of pace. The ideal situation was for a move from the city to a town somewhere on the New South Wales north coast and, if possible, with a position in the aviation sector. In May this year, his wish came true.

Now settled in Coffs Harbour with his wife and children, Mark is enjoying the lifestyle, climate and his beloved aviation industry at Coffs Harbour Regional Airport as Manager Commercial and Compliance Manager.

Welcome, Mark! www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

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SIMPLY THE BEST! C

offs Harbour Regional Airport triumphed at this year’s Australian Airports Association industry awards.

Entered in the Large Regional Airport category (175,000 to 499,999 passengers per annum), Coffs Harbour Airport was recognised for achieving outstanding business performance and operations infrastructure development when compared against the judging criteria and the competition.

Airport Manager, Dennis Martin, said that winning this award is testament to the dedication, commitment and cooperation by many people involved with the infrastructure improvement project during the past 12 months.

“Airport staff, airline partners, tenants and contractors collaborated to minimize interruptions to customer convenience and service, while getting on with the job of upgrading the terminal, apron, operating systems, car parking and airport security,” he said.

“The professionalism and willingness of contractors like FM Glenn, Boral Asphalt and Kamen Engineering was the key to success in working closely with airport management and staff to ensure the project remained on schedule and on budget.”

Mr Martin said it was highly challenging having to accommodate scheduled aircraft arrivals and departures, passengers moving to and from parked aircraft, airlines requiring quick turnaround times and travellers requiring efficient, convenient and comfortable arrival and departure services.

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Since around 2009 passenger numbers at Coffs Habour Regional Airport have increased by over 100,000 to almost 413,000 as of 30 June, 2017. Over the past twelve months alone, the increase over the previous years was a significant 35,519 passengers. With this level of increase forecast to continue, it was imperative that infrastructure improvements were carried out now to future-proof the business for the next ten years.

With Council and the Chamber of Commerce encouraging new and existing enterprises to ‘set-up-shop’ in Coffs Harbour to enhance economic and employment opportunities, facilities such as airports are key components that influence corporate decision making.

The airport is also a critical component when pitching for major national and international events such as the World Rally Championships, NRL, AFL, Cricket, Oztag and Touch Football.

Now with the upgrade complete and high frequency services available to and from Coffs Harbour with three major airlines, Coffs Coast is more competitive than ever before.

The next time you are travelling for business or pleasure, meeting or fare welling visitors, or if you are intrigued to see these new developments, be assured every effort is being made by the combined team of staff, tenants and airline partners at Coffs Harbour Airport to make your experience simply the best!

COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT FACTS: • Coffs Harbour Airport is one of the largest and busiest regional airports in New South Wales and is your gateway to the beautiful Coffs Coast • Direct flights to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne • Secure car parking is completely covered and fitted with 24-hour CCTV cameras • The Hangar Bar is open on weekdays with light refreshments and beverages available • Action Coach Shuttle Services operate an airport shuttle bus from Coffs Harbour Airport to all the major resorts and surrounding locations

AIRLINES: QANTAS: 3 to 6 flights to and from Sydney per day VIRGIN: 2 flights to and from Sydney per day TIGER AIR: 1 flight to and from Sydney on Monday’s, Friday’s and Sunday’s, 1 flight to and from Melbourne on Monday’s, Wednesday’s, Friday’s and Saturday’s FLY CORPORATE: 1 flight to and from Brisbane from Monday to Thursday, 2 flights from Coffs Harbour to Brisbane on Friday’s, 1 flight from Brisbane to Coffs Harbour on Sunday

COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT UPDATE

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N O S ’ T A H W /JANUARY/FEBRUA RY DE CEMBER

COFFS COAST CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

PANTAENIUS NEWPORT TO COFFS COAST YACHT RACE

CAMP CREATIVE AT BELLINGEN

16 DECEMBER

28 TO 29 DECEMBER

This special community event will be held at Brelsford Park on Saturday, 16 December. Coffs Coast Carols is a favourite among the community and we are expecting to see even larger crowds embrace the festive spirit at this year’s event. The fun-filled evening will feature local performers, singing and dancing, a visit from Santa, and all capped off with a grand finale fireworks display. The fun is on from 6.30pm to 9pm.

The RMYC Broken Bay in association with Coffs Harbour Yacht Club has announced that the Pantaenius Newport to Coffs Coast Yacht Race will start in Pittwater on 27 December. This will mark the 37th running of the Coffs Harbour race and in its new format will be names the “Pantaenius Newport to Coffs Coast Yacht Race”. Coffs Harbour Yacht Club are very excited that the tradition of the race will continue and look forward to providing ideal facilities and a huge Coffs welcome for the fleet when they arrive around the 28 to 29 December.

Camp Creative is five days of creative fun for all ages. Suitable for both individuals and families, it offers over 70 courses in the visual and performing arts. Now in its thirty-first year, it attracts people from all walks of life to enjoy a week of personal growth in a stimulating environment.

The accent is on imagination, innovation and enjoyment and it gives everyone the opportunity to find within themselves new creative expression. Camp Creative will open your eyes to new ways of looking at things and at yourself! Anybody and everybody from age six to one hundred and six, especially families, grandparents, parents and children, can join Camp Creative. If you come alone, you’ll have the opportunity to make new friends in a friendly and encouraging environment.

Call 6648 4954 for more details.

Visit www.royalmotor.com.au/ coffs-race for more information!

8 JANUARY TO 12 JANUARY

To learn more, visit www.campcreative.com.au.

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SCREENWAVE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 10 TO 25 JANUARY

COFFS HARBOUR WEDDING FAIR

QUEEN’S BATON RELAY

14 JANUARY

The eyes of the Commonwealth will be on Coffs Harbour on 1 February as the Baton journeys towards its final destination, the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) Opening Ceremony on 4 April.

Across Australia approximately 3,800 Batonbearers are needed to share the dream of the ‘friendly Games’ as part of the QBR. Batonbearers are people of all abilities who inspire others to be great and will represent a community with pride and showcase to the world the region’s outstanding natural beauty. Setting off in Australia on 25 December, the Baton will travel for 100 days to connect with as many people as possible in every state and territory.

The Queen’s Baton carries a message from Her Majesty The Queen through the entire Commonwealth. The Games are declared officially open when the message is read aloud. In just eight days, the Baton will start its global journey at Buckingham Palace on Commonwealth Day, Monday 13 March. It will travel through every Commonwealth nation and territory on its way to Australia.

1 FEBRUARY

The Screenwave International Film Festival (SWIFF) is back for 2018! Coffs Coast’s Heart of Film brings with it a bolder and wider film program than ever before, as well as special guests, film culture events, and a pioneering public art installation project. The festival will run from 10 to 25 January across screening locations on the Coffs Coast, including Coffs Harbour and Bellingen. Its world-class program of more than 50 films from over 18 countries will cover a number of program strands, including World Cinema, Documentary, Australian Cinema, Call of The Surf, Women of Action, LGBTQI and Short Film Finalists. Now in its third year, SWIFF has grown to be a flagship Mid North Coast summer cultural event which attracts visitors from across Australia and around the world.

The Coffs Harbour Wedding Fair will be held at Opal Cove Resort Coffs Harbour and is the first Major Wedding Event of the year! If you are looking for a Bridal Fair or Wedding Expo to start or finalise your Weddings plans, you can’t afford to miss this comprehensive Wedding event for 2018.

With a collection of over 40 prominent Wedding specialists, the Wedding Fair is a must see for every Bride to Be. Exhibitors at the Wedding Fair will be showcasing the latest trends, styling and innovations, along with great ‘Wedding Fair Specials’ to place the Wedding of your dreams within reach. The Wedding Fair is for more than Brides, there is something for all of your Bride Tribe, including the Groom! Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at the Coffs Harbour Wedding Fair, where you can even join in on the popular Opal Cove Resort Tours.

Email contact@screenwave.com.au to learn more.

Visit www.opalcove.com.au to secure tickets.

For more, head to www.gc2018.com/qbr.

NEWCASTLE PERMANENT’S CINEMA UNDER THE STARS 3 FEBRUARY Newcastle Permanent’s Cinema Under the Stars is Australia’s largest free outdoor cinema program and is coming to Coffs Harbour! The event kicks off at 5.30pm with a fantastic line-up of family friendly entertainment and activities before the blockbuster movie Sing screens at sundown.

Find ticket information and more at www.newcastlepermanent.com.au.

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In 2017 Coffs Coast hosted a wide range of regional, state, national and world-class sporting events. These, along with cultural festivals and regular holiday and leisure tourism business, are vital contributors to the well-being and sustainability of the Coffs Coast economy.

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COFFS COAST: All Things Sport W

hy is it that Coffs Harbour attracts so many sporting events, and what does the future hold for this trend to continue?

In an attempt to answer some of these questions, Coffs Harbour City Council’s Daniel Heather offered some insight.

According to Mr Heather, our most significant asset is the C.ex Coffs International Stadium. He said, “The stadium and surrounding 25 fields which make up the Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park precinct provide flexibility and scale which enables Coffs to cater for events large and small across a wide range of sporting codes.”

It’s not just the quantity of the fields but also the quality that makes the Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park Coffs Harbour’s hidden jewel.

“The stadium field in particular is one of the country’s premium playing surfaces. The underground drainage, quality grasses and loving attention by the stadium’s green keeping team are often recognised and praised by many sports people.”

Recent media commentary reported that the English cricket team competing against Australia in the CommBank

Women’s Ashes 2017 suggested the Coffs stadium wicket was better than a North Sydney metropolitan pitch on which they played.

Mr Heather noted that four major Oztag events are held annually at the Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park Stadium because of all of the above and more.

Tournament Director, Bill Harringan, said that Coffs is ideal for many reasons; the quality, flexibility and reliability of the playing surfaces is second to none, the geographic location halfway between Sydney and Brisbane is central to many teams’ home bases, the Pacific Highway upgrade is improving every year and three major airlines offer excellent schedules and fares to Coffs Harbour from all around Australia - and the airport is just stonesthrow from the city as are beaches, entertainment, shopping, accommodation and the playing fields at the stadium.

When asked who Coffs Harbour’s main competition is for events, Mr Heather responded, “Capital cities, especially parts of outer Sydney as well as large regional cities and towns across Australia, particularly along the NSW and Queensland coasts, they are all vying for event business.”

To counter the competition, the Stadium and Major Event’s team use a partnership philosophy. The partnership is with the event organiser, Coffs Harbour City Council, regulatory authorities, the community and the various suppliers to the event participants, followers and officials who are encouraged to collaborate to ensure a successful event.

Mr Heather cited a recent example to demonstrate this approach...

When heavy rain and flooded fields threatened the cancellation of the sold out Midnight Oil concert booked for Coffs Harbour, the Stadium and Major Events team met with the concert promoter, NSW Police, Roads and Maritime Services, lighting and sound technicians and stage crews, emergency services and event security to work out a Plan B. With only two days before the scheduled performance, it was agreed that instead of cancelling the concert, the venue could be transferred from the soggy fields to the C.ex Coffs International Stadium car park, as long as everyone pitched in to ‘make things happen’. And they did, with the concert being an outstanding success in more ways than expected. The concert promoter was so impressed with the level of flexibility in the city’s facilities and the professional can-do approach by all involved, they are now telling others about their positive experiences and are talking of returning to Coffs Harbour with other event and concert opportunities.

While the stadium is the major facility for field-based sporting events,

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the Stadium and Major Events team are involved in partnering a range of organisations conducting events elsewhere around the city. Some of these included the Botanic Gardens which was the venue for the Paul Kelly concert, the harbour and Jetty Foreshore which is home for the Offshore Powerboats races, the Coffs Creek Walk and surrounds which are regularly used for the Coffs Running Festival and next year Mount Coramba will host the first round of the National Downhill Mountain Bike Championships.

In 2018 a significant upgrade of C.ex Coffs International Stadium will be undertaken and financed by Coffs Harbour City Council and the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund. Improvements will include the refurbishment of the existing grandstand and construction of two new grandstands. These new facilities are aimed at improving team and spectator experiences, as well as being more compatible for broadcast events.

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Some highlights are: ■ Increased

grandstand seating (up to 3,000 seats), including more undercover seating facilities for broadcast media, commentators and camera crews ■ Corporate suites ■ Improved food and beverage offerings and additional outlets ■ Expanded player change rooms and amenities ■ New

A number of regular and new events are already booked for 2018.

Some are: ■ NSW

Junior Oztag Championships – February Touch league – March ■ NSW Senior Oztag Championships – March ■ National Junior Oztag Championships – March ■ FFA National Youth Championships – July and October ■ AFL National Masters Carnival – September/October ■ Tag World Championships - November ■ National

With significant improvement works soon to commence at the stadium, the challenge for the Stadium and Major Events team will be to continue to maintain their high standard ‘business as usual’ services, while overseeing the stadium’s redevelopment. Mr Heather was positive this will be achieved with the support from Council, the Stadium and Major Events staff, event organisers and regulatory authorities and the various sporting codes who are all supportive of the adopted collaborative partnership approach that ultimately benefits the Coffs Coast community.

Further information, visit www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au or call 02 6648 4950.

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T

he best way to describe Kate Howat and Dave Horsley is ‘passionate for the artistic and creative industries’. Kate grew up in Coffs and has travelled around Australia and the globe to review film styles and techniques and Dave was brought up in Brisbane. His love of film-making related more to the directing and writing aspects. Now as husband and wife, with Dave as Festival Director and Kate the Artistic Director, they are bringing Screenwave International Film Festival (SWIFF) to Coffs Coast to share their love of film and artistic creativity.

The festival will have 91 screenings with a selection of ten feature films from Australia and 62 films sourced from 18 different countries, including Afghanistan, Canada, China, France, Ireland, Mexico, Pakistan and Spain.

Another element of the festival is to recognise and encourage young film makers from regional New South Wales. Films from 17 finalists of the Youth Film Festival will also be screened as part of SWIFF. The screenings will take place in the refurbished Jetty Memorial Theatre in Coffs Harbour and in the art deco Bellingen Memorial Hall.

BRINGING FILMS, FUN AND LIGHT SHOWS TO COFFS COAST

A must-see highlight of the festival will be SWIFF Light Box. Moving image artworks will be projected onto spaces in and around the Coffs Harbour Jetty precinct, including the Jetty Memorial Theatre, Forestry Corporation building, Elements Bar and in the quarry on South Coffs Island on the southern side of the harbour. This creative inspiration is the outcome of collaboration between four local artists crafting stories about Coffs Coast and curated by the projection art pioneers at Illuminart. These free-to-watch lightshows will run nightly during the festival from 8.30 pm till late and are accessible and suitable for all ages.

SWIFF Light Box is a $70,000 projection art exhibition and is a joint project between Screenwave and Festivals Australia, supported by Federal Member for Cowper, Luke Hartsuyker MP.

Quartet - left to right, John Thiering, Di Jones, Dave Horsley and Ash Johnston SWIFF Lightbox, projection on Forestry Corporation building by J Thiering

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TOP 10 HIGHLIGHTS OF SCREENWAVE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2018 SWIFF Light Box

The Square

A festival first, this joint project with local artists and awardwinning projection collective Illuminart will light up spaces around the Jetty precinct in a free and accessible outdoor light show exhibition for festivalgoers, locals, and visitors to the region. You can visit this project at the Jetty Theatre, Forestry Building, Element Bar and South Coffs Island (quarry site). Projections will be on nightly from 8.30pm till late, from 19 to 25 January.

This compulsively watchable, no-holds-barred satire of the postmodern art world won the Palme d’Or at Cannes 2017 and it stars Elisabeth Moss and Dominic West. This film will be shown on Friday, 12 January from 6.30pm at the Jetty Theatre and on January 19 at 7.30pm at the Bellingen Memorial Hall.

Closing Night: Ellipsis, special guest David Wenham Enjoy a screening of David Wenham’s directorial debut ‘Ellipsis’, which takes the audience on a night out in Sydney following the chance meeting of two strangers, followed by audience Q&A with David Wenham. The festival wrap after party will be at South Coffs Island (harbour quarry) at the SWIFF pop-up bar and there will be a DJ set by Tim Helmy on a backdrop of cliff face projections from SWIFF Light Box. Find this event at the Jetty Theatre and South Coffs Island on Thursday, 25 January from 6pm.

Men of Wood & Foam: live soundtrack event This is a portrait of six NSW friends from the golden decade of surfing - pioneers who shaped not just boards, but the history of surfing in Australia, including Coffs’s own surfing legend Scotty Dillon. There will be a special screening with a live soundtrack accompaniment performed by Band of Frequencies and an audience Q&A with producer, Phil Jarratt. This will be on at the Jetty Theatre on Saturday, 20 January from 6.30pm.

Opening Night Gala – Jungle SWIFF 2018 swings into action with Jungle from home-grown director Greg McLean and starring Daniel Radcliffe. It tells the true story of Israeli adventurer Yossi Ghinsberg who survived alone in the Amazon for more than three weeks.

Find this exhibition at the Jetty Theatre on Wednesday, 10 January at 6pm for a 7pm start.

AFTRS workshop: Directing Short Film This will be a full-day workshop on directing techniques for short films to pull the performances and story you need to connect the audience with your vision. Presented by Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) lecturer Jonathan Ogilvie, a two-time Cannes Film Festival selected short film director and winner of Tropfest. This event will be on at the Cavanbah Centre on Tuesday, 23 January from 9am to 5pm.

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REC Ya Shorts Youth Film Festival See the 17 finalist short films from REC Ya Shorts Youth Film Festival 2017, made by young people aged 12 to 25 across regional NSW. A joint project with Headspace Coffs Harbour, the films explore the theme of connection via music video, mock doc, drama, comedy and more. On at the Jetty Theatre on Monday, 22 January from 12.30pm.

Australian premiere: A Bad Idea Gone Wrong This is an unmissable indie comedy. Two would-be cat burglars wind up with more than they bargained for when their get rich quick scheme sees them trapped in the house they’re trying to rob ¬– and they’re not alone. Stars Matt Jones of Breaking Bad fame and on at the Jetty Theatre on Saturday, 13 January at 6.30pm.

The Go-Betweens: Right Here Follows the band from its 1970’s beginnings in Brisbane, through two incarnations over more than three decades, with all the successes, failures, romances, break-ups, betrayals, triumphs and tragedies. There will be an audience Q&A with special guest Lindy Morrison from the Go-Betweens. On at the Jetty Theatre on Saturday, 20 January and at Bellingen Memorial Hall on Sunday, 21 January.

SWIFF Industry Connect for filmmakers Presented by Arts Mid North Coast, an event that gives festival-going filmmakers the tools to improve their craft and connect with other creatives. Following a panel and Q&A session with filmmakers, enjoy drinks and nibbles and make some new contacts and friends. On at the Element Bar on Monday, 22 January from 3pm to 6pm.

There are many more films and festival activities, so be sure to mark the dates in your diary and come along to this very special film and light festival this summer on Coffs Coast.

Further Information, program and tickets, visit www.swiff.com.au.

JANUARY

2018

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World Rally EVENT WRAP

T

his year’s Australian round of the World Rally Championships (WRC) on Coffs Coast was dusty, wet and thrilling. The rally was host to some exciting moments, including Sebastian Ogier returning with his world championship title for the fifth time, Thierry Neuville winning the WRC Kennard’s Hire Rally Australia title and local driver Nathan Quinn being crowned CAMS Australian Rally Champion for 2017.

Over the three days of rallying, drivers, co-drivers, mechanics, support crew, team managers and a sizeable army of volunteers put on a world-class event attended by over 63,000 people made up of spectators, teams, event officials, media and pass holders around the course. Impressively, this event was seen by 50 million viewers world-wide and on free-to-air television in Australia.

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Festivities commenced in the Coffs Harbour CBD with a display of rally cars, driver interviews and a ceremonial start to the rally. Here, fans enjoyed the opportunity to briefly chat to their rally idols and capture a selfie and an autograph. Rally enthusiasts and first time visitors also took the opportunity to visit the Service Park at C.ex Coffs International Stadium to see how this extraordinary event operates, with the WRC teams working around the clock and under lights to clean, prepare and repair their rally cars, watch daily post rally stage interviews with top drivers, talk turbos and tyres with fellow enthusiasts and browse and buy some of the rally merchandise and accessories on offer.

Out around the rally stages, special spectator viewing points were set up for followers to see the speeding action, visit food and beverage vendors to refresh and

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refuel and keep up-to-date with live rally feeds of images, video and updates on all the action.

At the foreshore Super Special Stage fans were treated to colourful commentary by motoring enthusiast and well know Australian actor and entertainer Shane Jacobson, better known as Kenny. He and rally commentators went out amongst the fans to get first hand feedback of the event.

Shane and the event proved to be a big hit with the thousands of spectators who came from near and far.

At the Wedding Bells State Forest stage, visitors were well catered for. Forestry Corporation NSW hosted the undercover Kids Corner entertainment, Rally Australia corporate hospitality marquees hosted business folk to network and watch the rally, vendors offered the public a wide selection of refreshments and everyone

relishing the sights and sounds of highly tuned rally cars speeding around the course. These fantastic machines were powering up hill, getting airborne over bumps and jumps, flashing past rows of gum trees, twisting along jungle-like trails at breakneck speeds and being cheered by fanatical fans, especially those from New Zealand, Finland, Ireland, Estonia and Aussie’s cheering their local champion, Nathan Quinn.

Over the four days, extensive media coverage showcased the stunning Coffs Coast hinterland, coastline and scenic rally course, which this year was seventy per cent through NSW State Forests, along hinterland farm field roads in the Nambucca Valley and seaside at the Coffs Harbour foreshore.

Rally Australia Chairman Ben Rainsford said that with this year’s highly successful event now run and won, plans for further enhancements are already underway to make next year’s Kennards Hire Rally Australia bigger and better.

So get out your 2018 diary and set aside 15 to 18 November to be on Coffs Coast to watch some of the fastest and bravest rally drivers in action. It is New South Wales’ and Coffs Coast’s premier world class motoring event.

Keen to learn more?

Visit www.rallyaustralia.com.au and www.wrc.com.

2018 FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR: 25-28 January, Monte-Carlo 15-18 February, Sweden 8-11 March, Mexico 5-8 April, France 26-29 April, Argentina 17-20 May, Portugal 7-10 June, Italy 26-29 July, Finland 16-19 August, Germany 13-16 September, Turkey 4-7 October, Great Britain 25-28 October, Spain 15-18 November, Coffs Harbour

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IT’S TENNIS TIME!

Tennis Photo Network

Do you take to the court for a good hit of the tennis ball on the odd occasion? Whether you play or spectate, tennis is certainly one entertaining game. With the Brisbane International and Sydney International on over December and January, it’s time to get involved in this fast-paced, blood-pumping game…

BRI S BA N E IN T E R N AT I O N A L

SY DN E Y IN T E R N AT I O N A L

Q ueensla nd Tennis C en t r e T icke t s : w w w.t icke t ek .c om. au

S ydney O l ympic P a r k T icke t s : w w w.t icke t ek .c om. au

The Brisbane International reaches a major milestone in 2018 – the tenth edition.

Since 2009, the tournament has been cemented at the start of the world’s sporting calendar, launching the player’s favourite season – Australia’s summer of tennis.

The tournament honour roll includes names such as Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Roger Federer and Andy Murray, who has announced his much anticipated return in 2018. The Brit insisted on starting his year in the Sunshine State, knowing that after an injury break, the tournament will serve as the best possible preparation for the Australian Open.

The event kicks off on December 31 with Kid’s Day, which offers free entry for children under the age of 12. Families are encouraged to come and make the most of New Year’s Eve by starting their day at the tennis, watching the Arena Spectacular in Pat Rafter Arena which features some of the biggest stars in tennis and live entertainment from singers and kids’ favourite TV characters.

7 t o 13 Januar y

The New South Wales Open, now known as the Sydney International, is one of the oldest tournaments in the world, dating back to 1885.

The Sydney Cricket ground was the first venue for the New South Wales Open, followed by a location at Double Bay and then White City, which hosted the championships for an amazing 76 years up to and including 1999.

In 2000, the tournament moved to its fourth home, the state-of-the-art Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre, where it is played to this day.

A number of flights operate from Coffs Harbour to Brisbane and Sydney each day. To view available flights, visit www.coffsharbourairport.com.au.

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Tennis Photo Network

31 De c ember t o 7 Januar y

AGE: FROM: HEIGHT: PRO SINCE: PLAYS:

PRIZE MONEY:

Matt Ebden 30 Perth 188cm 2006 Right-handed (two-handed backhand) US $1.8 million

It has been said you are the most improved player on the ATP world tour this year. Tell us about your journey in tennis?

work on and develop technically, whether it’s your hit, grip or movement around the court.

I started playing tennis as soon as I could walk, basically, but more properly when I was four or five years old. My parents and two older sisters were always playing tennis, so I was always at the tennis club hitting against the wall and having fun until I was old enough to have lessons.

From there, I played growing up and in juniors and then headed off to start the professional tour when I was 17.

What is your favourite court that you’ve played on?

Rod Laver Arena during a night match.

Does your training intensify as you approach the lead-up to big tournaments?

What tips would you give to the weekend tennis warriors who are trying to refine their technique?

First of all, you have to enjoy it. If you don’t, you won’t keep playing and then you have no chance to improve. After that, it’s about finding some simple things that you can

Yes, definitely. In preparing for the Aussie summer and the Australian Open grand slam (which is best of five sets in the heat) I spend many weeks training strength and endurance and then sharpen up with agility and power closer to the events.

What is your favourite technique?

The Pete Sampras tennis serve.

The beauty of tennis is in the scoring system. There is no finish line and no end point. A person can be completely down and out but come back and win and vice versa. This alone can create a lot of drama and tension.

The other thing is tennis is an individual sport and everybody is watching. Players deal with many different feelings and emotions before and during events and that’s part of what makes it special, but it can definitely also create a lot of drama. When you are the man or woman in the arena, anything can happen!

Do you have any routines you need to stick to prior to a match?

Yes. I definitely make sure to focus on my sleep, hydration and nutrition. It’s about feeling comfortable and confident with what’s about to happen.

What can fans expect when attending or spectating the Brisbane or Sydney International tournaments over summer?

This is the best tennis you will see anywhere in the world, coupled with great environments and the Australian summer. In my opinion, there is nothing better!

Tennis Photo Network

NAME:

Ge tty Ima ges

PLAYER PROFILE

There’s no doubt about it, tennis is very entertaining to watch. What’s your take on the drama we occasionally see on the court?

1. What material is a tennis ball covered in?

3. Is tennis an Olympic sport?

4. Where did the modern game of tennis originate?

5. What was the sport referred to in earlier days?

6. Name the four grand slam tournaments 7. What were rackets originally made of?

8. How long is a tennis court?

9. As of 2017, which player is considered to have the most ‘complete game’?

10. What is the most common injury in tennis?

1. Felt, 2. The other player receives a point, 3. Yes, 4. Birmingham, England, 5. Lawn tennis 6. Australian Open, US Open, French Open and Wimbledon , 7. Wood, 8. 78 feet, 9. Rodger Federer, 10. Muscle strain

Tennis Photo Network

2. What happens if a player can’t return the ball?

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S E L Z Z U P

SUDOKU Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

Difficulty rating

Difficulty rating

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The Sydney Santa Spectacular Gives Back This Christmas A T North Pole blizzard of frosty festive fun and charitable cheer is set to hit Sydney when Australia’s biggest Christmas festival, The Sydney Santa Spectacular, sweeps into Rosehill Gardens Racecourse until 27 December.

he spirit of giving is also an integral part of the Sydney Santa Spectacular, noting that her favourite event element is a towering 15-metre charity Christmas tree, under which attendees are encouraged to place gifts for sick kids.

The three-week festive extravaganza will deliver the city’s coolest silly-season celebration, complete with one of Australia’s largest portable ice skating rinks, imported direct from Italy for a snowy sampling of European Winter in Sydney’s scorching summer heat.

Over the past two years, the Sydney Santa Spectacular team has hand-delivered around 2,000 presents from the giving tree to the Sydney Children’s Hospital and Westmead Children’s Hospital.

There will also be a toboggan slide, live stage entertainment, a glittering Santa’s Enchanted Forest with live snowfall, Christmas cookie-decorating workshops, reindeer ride-on training stables, interactive costume characters, fairy reading-times, live carolling, face-painting, special Santa meet-and-greets and much more.

Jade Evans, Co-founder of Sydney Santa Spectacular said, “We are Christmasobsessed and wanted to bring an international-scale Christmas festival to Australia, but we were also very conscious of making sure the experience remains affordable for all families. We have five kids, so we know how expensive it can be to take a big family to a special event, especially at a pricey time like Christmas.”

“Being able to play Mr & Mrs Claus loading up the Team Santa van and delivering the gifts to the sick kids is the highlight of the event for our team and family,” said Evans.

“A few years ago our son was critically injured and spent months in hospital being cared for and rehabilitated, so it’s nice to now be able to give back and bring some joy to families that are going through difficult times. We know just how it feels and it’s the little things, especially at times like Christmas, that make all the difference,” she explained.

The Sydney Santa Spectacular also offers up a festive fare for adults and parents, with a Naughty Elves Wine and Cheese Bar providing the perfect pre-skate watering hole for some axels and bunny hops on the ice.

ABOUT THE EVENT

In 2015, the festival’s inaugural year, the event attracted more than 40,000 people from across Australia. In 2016 the event size doubled and more than 50,000 people enjoyed the Christmas fun.

The event is funded primarily by the event’s organiser’s, Jade and Josh Evans, with very minimal sponsorship support.

More than 20 semi-trailers are deployed to deliver all of the sets and materials for the event, with Josh Evans personally driving the truck back and forth to the venue each time.

The Evans family have hand-made a total of 500 Christmas wreaths for the event over the past two years along with hand painting and touching up hundreds of signs and characters

THE EVENT ELEMENTS • Little elves craft workshop • Roaming Christmas characters • Show rides • Stage entertainment • Christmas fairy readings • Ice skating spectacular • Winter tobogganing • Enchanted snow forest

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SURVIVING A FIFO CHRISTMAS A word from Mining Family Matters creator, Alicia Ranford...

Sometimes fly-in, fly-out rosters and Christmas just don’t mix.

Of course, it’s tough when you’re working away on the one day of the year we’re all supposed to be together, but there are ways to ease the pressure and make Christmas bearable even though you’re apart.

1

Remember, there’s no law that says Christmas can’t be celebrated twice in one year. Some families do Christmas lunch twice, complete with turkey, pudding – the works. If your kids are little, they’ll have no idea if you’re celebrating the day on December 25 or December 12.

2

Plan ahead with presents so you don’t have regrets on the day.

You don’t need to spend a lot of cash because this isn’t really about the gifts – it’s about feeling connected.

3

If you’re the one working away, spoil yourself. Take your favourite food or drink to site. If you’re the partner back home, send a Christmas care pack to site including a small gift, cake, cracker and photos to make the day special.

4

Model positive coping skills for your children by acknowledging your feelings but then finding ways to feel better. If you need to offload, talk to a supportive friend or family member when the kids aren’t in earshot.

5

Discuss ahead of time what will work best for connecting on the day.

Obviously this depends on your roster and the family’s plans, but it should also depend on what’s easiest for you all emotionally. Some like lots of contact, others not so much. There is no ‘right’ answer.

6

Watch your thinking and try not to feel too down that the family isn’t together.

Don’t fall into the trap of imagining everyone else laughing merrily with their families - that’s a myth! Lots of people work on Christmas Day. Instead, plan to watch a movie that makes you laugh.

7

Don’t be tempted to drink more alcohol to help you ‘cope’ with

sadness or loneliness. It’s likely to have the opposite effect.

8

Spare some time to think about everything that’s great in your life.

9

Plan something special for the next time you’re home after Christmas – a

special day out or short break that you can all look forward to. Book it and put it in the diary.

10

Surround yourself with positive people – that goes for on the mine

site and at home. Don’t let your energy and positivity be zapped by people who want to whinge about life or don’t understand your lifestyle.

More professional advice and practical strategies for families in mining and resources can be found at the Mining Family Matters website www.miningfm.com.au.

Empowering families in mining, oil & gas miningfm.com.au

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CHRISTMAS COOKING

By Chef Daniel www.chefdaniel.com.au

Pork Loin with a Smokey Twist (SERVES 5) HOT TIP: Perfectly paired with a lager or pale ale!

To really make the most of this dish, we’re going to turn your hooded barbecue into your own personal smoker - DELICIOUS!

WHAT YOU NEED: • Hooded barbecue • Foil • 1 x bag smoking wood chips you’ll have plenty left over for your next smoked dish!

• 1.5kg rolled pork loin • 2 leeks cut on an angle, roughly 1cm thick • 1.5kg chat potatoes cut into quarters • 1/2 bunch rosemary • 1 bunch of thyme, finely chopped • 620ml bottle of apple cider • 2 tablespoons of pink sea salt flakes • 500ml water • Salt and pepper to taste • Olive oil • Vinegar

WHAT TO DO: Fold a piece of foil to create a 10cm x 5cm dish and cover the base with smoking wood chips. Place on the grill part of your barbecue.

As the foil heats up, the wood chips will burn slowly and the smoke will generate inside the hood. Keep the hood closed and the smoke will flavour your pork loin. Refill as you need.

STEP 1 Let’s get that pork loin ready to go. Boil a kettle filled with water and pour slowly over the pork loin twice so you blister the skin.

Dry the skin off and rub in some vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes until you see all extra moisture seep out of the skin.

STEP 2 Rub in a little olive oil well then massage in the sea salt flakes. This will allow the salt to dehydrate the skin to achieve the crispness in the barbecue that everyone loves.

STEP 3 Place your leeks and potatoes into a deep metal oven dish and sprinkle the rosemary and thyme on top. Throw on more olive oil, apple cider and season with salt and pepper before placing the pork loin on top.

STEP 4 Pre-heat your barbecue by setting all burners of your barbecue to high and closing the lid.

STEP 5 Leave the far burner on high - that’s where you’ll be placing your wood chips. Turn the others to low and place the dish on the grill.

Close the lid and cook for 50 minutes.

STEP 6 Turn all the burners off and let the dish sit in the barbecue for a further 15 minutes to rest. Don’t open the lid until the 15 minutes is up to allow the smoke to permeate the pork loin.

STEP 7 Serve with the leeks and potatoes and pair with a lager or a pale ale.

CR

ER K C A

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Overcome your FEAR OF FLYING

W

hile you may fly all the time for work or leisure, you might not know that one in four Australians have a fear of flying!

To help others overcome their fear of flying, Ben Evans, Co-owner of Flight Experience Sydney shares his top tips…

The fear of flying has become an increasingly common phobia, particularly in recent years. One in four Australians have a fear of flying and it can be caused by a single direct influence such as a traumatic flight experience, or a combination of factors such as stress, anxiety or feeling a loss of control.

1

But nervous flyers, rest assured, aircraft are designed to withstand severe turbulence and multiple simultaneous lighting strikes. All major aircraft systems are also built with at least two back-up systems.

Additionally, passengers have nothing to worry about when it comes to the professional experience of pilots.

Airline captains typically have well over 4,000 hours of flying experience and they are audited every four to six months in order to keep their licence.

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BREATHING TECHNIQUES “As anxiety increases, your breathing may get shallow. Learn to control your breathing and even try a meditative breathing exercise to relax. When you’re in the boarding area of the airport or sitting on the plane, close your eyes and start breathing slowly and deeply in for four counts and out for eight counts.

2

PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION “Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) requires more time than deep breathing but its effect can be quite powerful. During PMR you will feel tense but you will also relax small groups of muscles, one-by-one.

The process will teach you to recognise what tension feels like and practice releasing that tension from your muscles.

During the flight, sit in a comfortable position. Beginning with your feet, notice how your muscles feel. Tightly tense the muscles in your feet by curling your toes and hold that tension for 5-10 seconds.

Then, release the tension from your feet and let them loosen up.

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3

COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY “Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) it is a form of desensitation or exposure therapy. It is a way of dealing with negative feelings. Essentially it’s not events that upset you, but the meaning that you give to those events. It’s important to change the way you think about the things that make you fearful. More easily said than done, a good way to approach this is to learn how to identify and challenge negative thoughts with realistic ones.

4

SKIP ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINE “Alcohol tends to be the first thing people think about consuming to alleviate anxiety about flying. Don’t give into temptation! Even though it might be fun to fly with a buzz, it is easy to overdo when you are already a bit nervous. For those prone to panic attacks, they should skip caffeine on days they are flying.

5

STAY FOCUSED, BUT NOT VIGILANT “Don’t distract yourself from the flying experience, but rather take it in and remind yourself about the safety of the environment you are in. Remember that every flight provides you with the opportunity to make the next one easier. Your goal is to retrain your brain to become less sensitised to the triggers that set you off.”

HOLIDAY ROAD TRAVEL While you may be about to jump on a plane to take off on a well-deserved holiday, the road is never far from each journey’s schedule. Such a busy time of the year calls for vigilance on the road and Sam Cawthorn is the perfect man to remind everyone about the importance of staying alert, safe and alive while taking on Australian roads this summer…

Tell us about your accident?

In 2006 I was driving along the Bass highway in Tasmania and I fell asleep at the wheel. I veered over the other side of the road and had a 206km head-on collision with a semi-trailer truck.

The police said that I was going 104km per hour and the semitrailer truck was doing 102km per hour. As a result there was a combined impact of 206km per hour.

Falling asleep at the wheel is a scary scenario, how can people stay aware of becoming fatigued?

The moment you start to feel you are becoming subconscious behind the wheel is the moment that you need to be more aware. When you’re driving you might have a little distraction and then sometimes you can’t recall certain parts of the route. That’s when you should not be behind the wheel bottom line, that’s the one sign. The second sign is when your eyes become droopy. If you find that you are blinking slower, or your eyes are becoming droopy, you need to pull over. If you find yourself winding the window down, or you have loud music just to stay awake, you should be pulling over. These are four signs to make sure that you are consciously aware of while driving.

Being pronounced dead on the scene and losing your arm are life-changing things to deal with. How did it initially affect you?

Initially I was in a state of denial. After a while I realised I was a father, husband and bread-winner. To be honest, I was very sad that my kids would have to grow up with a disabled father. So something that helped me navigate these negative feelings was that my kids accepted me for who I was and I didn’t have to worry about them being concerned about having a disabled father because they loved me unconditionally.

With Christmas coming up many of our readers will be on the road. What advice do you have for people driving during the festive season?

The reality is that when you are behind the wheel you have life and death right there in front of you and you cannot take that lightly.

My encouragement for everyone coming into Christmas is as basic as put two hands behind the wheel, just simply turn your phone on complete silence - not even on vibrate. That way if it rings or if there is a text message you are not distracted by the noise or vibration. My encouragement for everyone this Christmas is to think about your loved ones, think about your family and your friends and the responsibilities that you have in life. Because if you make one bad decision, one wrong move behind the wheel, it could all be over. You cannot take that for granted, so take care, be courteous and thoughtful towards others on the roads and do not take it for granted.

To read more about Sam and the work he has been involved in since his accident, head to

www.samcawthorn.com.

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SYDNEY BUILD 2018