Coffs Harbour Regional Airport ISSUE 39

Issue 39 • www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Smart Technology BE BRAVE!

Puzzle Mania

AIRPORT MAGAZINE

DAVID

Strassman

FROM PAGE 24

CHATS TO US

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Fly Corporate

I’M FREE

TAKE ME WITH YOU

DUST & EROSION SOLUTIONS FROM $0.0009 PER M2 GRT’s dust suppressant and erosion control range are some of the most advanced and cost effective in the world. By physically and chemically bonding soil or pavement particles together, cur non-toxic, environmentally safe and robust polymer solutions mitigate dust and erosion related risks for up to three months - and for as little as $0.0009 per m2.

To find out how GRT can help you save money and the environment with your next project, visit globalroad technology.com today.

1300 DUST FREE

contents 04. Welcome letter 06. Coffs Harbour Airport

Update 10. What’s On 12. Happy Birthday,

Fly Corporate!

14. Smart technology:

Be brave!

page 6

18. Floating FIFO’s 19. Rugby superstar,

James Stannard 20. Funny man,

David Strassman 22. A very cultural tour 24. Puzzles 26. Bluesfest 2017 recap 28. Aussie Hip Hop legend, Illy 30. Free stuff up for grabs!

page 22

page 14

page 18

Fly Coffs to Newcastle 5 times each week

99

ONE WAY INC TAXES FROM

$ page 20

To book visit flypelican.com.au Fly Pelican Airport Mag.indd 1

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

8/11/2016 9:21:18 AM

Issue 39

3

PUBLISHER Patrick McElligott patrick@ttmediagroup.com.au

EDITOR Aly Eveille aly@ttmediagroup.com.au

DESIGN Melissa Hanwright melissa@ttmediagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING & ENQUIRIES COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT MAGAZINE Sharon Rose Amos sharon@ttmediagroup.com.au 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

WELCOME TO COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT O

ver the past six months there has been ongoing construction in and around the terminal building. I am pleased to report that apart from possible delays due to inclement weather, it is expected that all

construction will be complete by mid July. As part of the upgrade, the terminal interior will be repainted and new carpets and floor tiles will be laid throughout, which will refresh the look and feel of the whole terminal building. The upgraded

PRINTING www.spotpress.com.au

and expanded Qantas Regional Lounge is now open and soon the garden area adjacent to the lounge will be landscaped and planted with foliage and flora.

When completed, this will create a relaxed and tranquil environment for club

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.

members. And talking of gardens, the Coffs Harbour Garden Club volunteers have continued their green thumb mission of planting, landscaping and pruning the foliage in and around the airport terminal building. It is with sincere thanks that I applaud and gratefully acknowledge the club and volunteers who generously offer their expertise and time to make Coffs Harbour Airport so attractive. Some of the volunteers have been doing so for many years with one member being on team at the airport for seventeen years. Thank you to one and all for your commitment and dedication. You are very much appreciated!

Another recent highlight was the first anniversary of Fly Corporate direct flight services between Coffs Harbour and Brisbane. Since the first take-off, more and more people are utilizing these direct flights due to the convenience and value of being able to quickly and conveniently travel to and from Brisbane. If you have not yet tried Fly Corporate, do so soon and I can assure you will be pleasantly

Formerly Inflight Publishing Pty. Ltd.

Ph (07) 3891 7793 • Fax (07) 3891 7702 PO Box 670, Stones Corner, Qld 4120

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

4

Issue 39 11

www.inflightmagazine.com.au www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

surprised by the quality of their people, aircraft and in-flight service. This route may only be one year old, however the parent company, Corporate Air has many years of aviation experience and is highly respected within the airline industry.

You can read a little of their history on page 12.

If history and the outdoors is your passion, you might like to undertake a Gumbaynggirr Cultural Tour. Members and elders of the Gumbaynggir Aboriginal community conduct tours every month from Sealy Lookout in Orara East State. Overlooking Coffs Harbour and the Solitary Islands Marine Park, stories and tastings of indigenous culture and bush foods is a fun and inspiring experience for young and old. Turn to page 22 for further information.

Fly Coffs to Brisbane Six times a week in just 1 hour.

That’s flying!

139 ONE WAY INC TAXES FROM

$

And finally, be sure to check out the story on CitySmart Solutions. This business unit of Coffs Harbour City Council is an excellent example of how opportunities and entrepreneurial flair have created employment and economic benefits for the citizens of Coffs Coast. It is a quintessential example of a ‘quiet achiever’.

Their story can be found on page 14.

For the financial year ending June 2017 it is forecast that just over 410,000 passengers will travel to and from Coffs Harbour Regional Airport. This is an increase of ten percent above the previous 12 months. With future projections that this level of growth is likely to continue our aim is to provide outstanding customer comfort, care and service to all who visit and fly to and from Coffs Harbour Airport.

So until next time, I wish you a safe and enjoyable flight wherever you travel.

Dennis Martin Airport Manager

To book visit flycorporate.com.au Fly corporate - picture.indd 1

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

8/11/2016 9:54:34 AM

Issue 39

5

COFFS HARBOUR AIRPORT UPDATE

T

he upgrade of facilities on the inside and outside of the airport terminal building continues. The new airport systems control switchboard is currently being installed,

demolition of old infrastructure and landscaping of the ground outside of the new Qantas lounge is progressing, the northern wall of the terminal is being replaced and members of the Coffs Harbour Garden Club have been carrying out regular maintenance of the gardens around the terminal.

The extension and reconstruction of the Arrivals Hall is soon to commence, which will include a new under cover entrance to the terminal. When it does, we will make every endeavour to minimise inconvenience and ask for your understanding and patience.

6

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

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.

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

Our self-contained apartments all have modern appliances, reverse cycle air conditioning, secure underground car parking with direct lift access to apartments.

Enjoy our two swimming pools with BBQ areas set amongst lawns and lush sub tropical gardens.

Ideally located a minutes walk to an array of cafes, award winning restaurants, shops and beaches.

ANY OCCASION WHETHER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY, A ROMANTIC ESCAPE, FAMILY HOLIDAY OR A BUSINESS TRIP, PACIFIC MARINA HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

7

T

he painting of lines for aircraft parking and the apron boundary have been delayed due to inclement weather, but this will soon get underway. However, prior to this

happening, reshaping of the ground around the apron is required, as is the installation of new apron lighting.

Inside the terminal, fresh new paint is being applied throughout and new carpet and new tiles are being laid. To minimise inconvenience to all our travellers and visitors this will happen after the last inbound flight and stop prior to the first morning departure. Your understanding and patience during this time is very much appreciated.

Another major component of the airport upgrade is the expansion and refurbishment of the Qantas Regional Lounge which was officially opened on 12 April. Located in the Departures Hall the lounge provides a quiet environment when members can relax, enjoy complimentary refreshments and snacks and catch up with member colleagues prior to departure.

It is expected that all these works will be finalised by July and in doing so, make Coffs Harbour Airport the best regional airport in the country providing comfort, convenience and service second to none to all who visit the airport.

8

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

New

Renault TRAFIC CREW With twice as many seats, it’s twice as much van.

Now available in 6 seater!

The new Renault Trafic Crew now seats 6 passengers in comfort and safety with 3-point seatbelts on all seats. Plus it has an integrated glazed bulkhead behind the 2nd row seats to keep your cargo separate.

There are also dual glazed sliding doors for increased accessibility as well as additional under seat storage. Whether you’re using it for work or pleasure, the dual-purpose Renault Trafic Crew can handle anything you throw at it.

renault.com.au/vehicles/commercial/trafic renault.com.au

Coffs Harbour Charity Walk

WHAT’S ON

MAY/JUNE/JULY BELLINGEN SHOW on 20 – 21 May at Bellingen Showgrounds

WICKED Musical Comedy at the Jetty Memorial Theatre from 5 – 29 May

SAWTELL CHILLI FESTIVAL on 1 July at First Avenue, Sawtell

Excitement for the annual Bellingen Show is building already. That’s because there’s so much on offer. From talented horses and riders in the popular Horse Competitions, which attract a large audience , to the Cattle or Poultry Shows where Champions proudly display their ribbons. Art lovers soak up the creativity in Art & Craft displays.

Demonstrations, activities, education and entertainment cover reptiles, dogs, woodchoppers, chefs, musicians, rides & side-show alley, the environment, clowns, fishing and so much more. Plus if you’re a young or young-at-heart visitor to the Show, enter one of the competitions or races on the day - just for fun!

Email secretary@bellingenshow.com.au for more information, or visit bellingenshow.com.au

Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company presents the popular new musical, “Wicked” the untold story of the Witches of Oz. Tickets are on sale at www.jettytheatre. com, or phone 02 6652 8088.

This is one of the hottest events on the Coffs Coast events calendar! Even though it’s the middle of a Coffs Coast winter, the event is guaranteed to turn up the heat a few notches. Each year, the popular festival attracts thousands of people to the pretty seaside village, keen to sample the wide range of chilli-related foods and products, take part in fun activities and competitions and be entertained by live music, dancing, cooking and other performances. The festival is an incredibly fun day out for the whole family. There will be street performances, rides for the kids, live music and dancing and, of course, the by now very famous annual Chilli Eating Competition! Less fiery but equally fun competitions you can take part in are the Spanish/Mexican style Fancy Dress Competition and the Chilli-themed Hat Parade.

Check out sawtellchillifestival.com.au for more information!

Bellingen Show

10

Issue 39

COFFS COAST CHARITY WALK on 18 June at Moonee Beach Road, Coffs Harbour The Coffs Coast Charity Walk is a fundraising event for the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service. The event begins at Moonee Park Reserve in Coffs Harbour and follows the Solitary Islands Walk, through to Lower Park Beach Reserve. It is a total distance of 14 kilometres. A 21-kilometre half marathon distance is also available, which extends from the 14-kilometre walk to the bottom of Mutton Bird Island and back to Lower Park Beach Reserve. The walks are an all-terrain challenge across sand, bush track and roads and should not be underestimated by any walker. The spectacular scenery creates an awe-inspiring backdrop for the Charity Walk. Participants can walk or run at any pace however it is a non-competitive social event. Participants can enter Individually or in teams of four to 20 people. Minimum age is 12 years old (with a paying adult).

Contact events@helirescue.com.au or 66 274 444, or visit www.coastalcharitywalk. com.au for more details.

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Bello Winter Music Festival

BELLO WINTER MUSIC FESTIVAL on 6 – 9 July at Ford Street, Bellingen Bello Winter Music is the perfect excuse to get away for a weekend and shake off the winter blues. As well as the music, Bello Winter Music comes alive with street theatre, workshops, free events and walking tours.

Situated roughly half way between Brisbane and Sydney and 30 minutes from Coffs Harbour, Bellingen sits in a spectacular

countryside on the banks of the Bellinger River. Small cottages line the river, and a host of bed and breakfast guesthouses can be found close to the town as well as eco huts and farmstay accommodation. Camping is also available at the nearby Bellingen Showgrounds for the duration of the festival, and bookings can be made through the festival office. The Bellingen community is deeply involved in every aspect of the festival.

It has been inspiring working with them to create a unique, authentic celebration of their town.

Contact info@bellowintermusic.com, phone 66 846 655, or visit www.bellowintermusic.com for more.

Sawtell Chilli Festival

TASTE WOOLGOOLGA FESTIVAL on 29 July at Seaview Tavern, Woolgoolga This Winter festival is all about foods that can be grilled, smoked, spit roasted, barbecued or wood fired. To compliment this, there will be a range of craft beers, winter wines and cider. Taste glasses will be available to purchase with four taste tokens for you to use in exchange for a free taste, a reduced price on your taste plate or a discount off products.

There will also be cooking demonstrations to tempt your taste buds and music to keep you entertained. Come and celebrate with in the name of beer and flame!

To find out more, call 0400 271 739, email sherry@tastewoolgoolga.com.au, or visit www.tastewoolgoolga.com.au

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

11

FLY CORPORATE TURNS ONE Last month Fly Corporate celebrated its first anniversary of providing regular passenger air transport services, commencing with flights between Coffs Harbour and Brisbane.

During those 12 months many residents of Coffs Harbour and surrounding regions have taken advantage of the one-hour trip, be it to conduct business, to go on holidays, attend medical appointments, visit family and friends, go shopping and even to see a stage play. Residents have also seen the convenience of connecting with domestic and international flights from Brisbane.

Of course, the service has also offered those living in Brisbane a chance to experience all that Coffs Coast has to offer. A number of businesses in Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas have commented upon the extra visitors.

Although Fly Corporate is just one year “new”, its ancestry dates back many years.

Corporate Air, the parent company of Fly Corporate, began operations from Canberra in1972 as a flying school and small air charter service. It was successful in both spheres and though it no longer conducts a flying school many larger airlines around the world today have pilots who gained their initial training experience with Corporate Air. At the same time, the air charter side of business expanded year on year enabling the company to purchase its first turbo prop aircraft in 1989, a Cessna Conquest. By 2000, increasing

12

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

customer demand saw Corporate Air services acquire additional multi-crew aircraft, the Metroliner 23. In 2012, with growing client demand for larger aircraft, Saab 340B+WT were added to the fleet. Today, Corporate Air operates 13 aircraft including several Saabs.

Following introduction of the Coffs Harbour-Brisbane run the company has introduced an additional six routes from Brisbane to regional areas in Queensland and New South Wales.

With Brisbane as the central hub, Fly Corporate now has regular services to Armidale, Tamworth, Orange, Narrabri, Moree and Thangool (Biloela) in Central Queensland.

The strategic, conservative and safe approach taken by Corporate Air has enabled the company to operate successfully for more than 45 years - quite an achievement in the turbulent world of aviation where airline companies tend to come and go regularly.

The company has an unblemished safety record and in line with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements, holds ‘Airline Operators Certificate for both domestic and international services.

And what do Corporate Air and Fly Corporate offer today?

Headquartered in Canberra, the organisation now operates from bases in Brisbane, Sydney, Goulburn, Melbourne, Adelaide and the Cooper Basin. Aviation related services provided

but is mature beyond the year‌

by Corporate Air embrace corporate and business charter flights, fly-in fly-out services, overnight freight, airborne remote sensing services, search and rescue over land and sea, organ transportation and outback touring.

Corporate Air has a state-of-the-art CASA approved aircraft heavy maintenance facility in Goulburn NSW. Apart from the company’s own planes Corporate Air engineers regularly provide maintenance services to external clients.

The company is open 24 hours a day so as to be able to respond quickly to emergency situations. Corporate Air is frequently tasked at short notice to help transport emergency services personnel to and from areas affected by natural disasters - anywhere from Cape York in northern Queensland to Launceston, Tasmania. The range and performance of company aircraft ensures a quick and safe response as the fleet are equipped to operate on grass, gravel and dirt airstrips delivering rescue crews and equipment in close proximity to the area of need.

Fly Corporate management is justly proud of its pilots and cabin crew who have received many compliments over their friendly, reliable and professional service.

Behind the diverse operations are a team of 70 personnel.

These include managers with many years experience in aviation management and operations, pilots with thousands of hours flying experience in all kinds of weather conditions, cabin crew providing customer care and safety, and of course, highly skilled aviation engineers and maintenance crews.

Not only do Corporate Air personnel provide services for their own customers, such is their reputation they also provide ground handling services for other airlines and charter operators. In the past 12 months, Corporate Air has provided services for over 4,500 aircraft.

Oh, here’s a tip for international travellers... If connecting with an international flight or cruise from Brisbane, make it known when booking your Fly Corporate reservation as your checkedin baggage allowance will be upgraded from 15 to 30 kilograms free of charge. And when you arrive at the Brisbane (domestic) terminal, there is a free coach service to the international terminal too.

Though Fly Corporate in just one year young, there are many years of aviation knowledge, skills and expertise in its DNA upon which you can rely. So when next you are considering travel to Brisbane and beyond, fly there with Fly Corporate.

Further information and bookings Web. flycorporate.com.au Email. reservations@flycorporate.com.au Tel: Call Centre for Reservations 1300 851 269 For charters and urgent situations, 1300 851 269 (then listen for appropriate options)

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

13

World Rally being filmed live

by World Rally cameraman.

Andrew Sales

Being Brave As a qualified and highly skilled electrical engineer, Andrew Sales was an integral part of the Information Technology (IT) department at Coffs Harbour City Council. He and the small team of IT staff looked after Council’s expanding computing, telecommunications and data storage needs. A demanding and challenging assignment as Council and the world rapidly transitioned from an analogue to digital world.

I

t was in 2002 that a particularly complex challenge was presented to Andrew and the IT team by the Sewer and Water Department (S&WD). The task was to review the operating systems to update and refine monitoring equipment, improve operating efficiency and reduce operating expenditure - not an easy task. However, after identifying the issues, which centred around the need to upgrade the sewer and water technology and control systems they also discovered there was no readily available solution - a high tech, digital systems control switchboard. This was the catalyst for their engineering entrepreneurship. To build a switchboard system that could deliver the desired improvements.

Rising to the challenge, Andrew along with two colleagues incorporated already established systems and invented new, task specific technology to construct the Sewer and Water Department’s required digitised systems monitoring and control switchboard. In everyday terms, this means that the new system would automatically transmit information such as water and

14

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

machinery temperatures, flow levels, water pump currents, battery levels and electricity usage back to one central location.

In effect the new switchboard became the eyes, ears and brain of the whole sewer and water network. And it proved highly successful so much so that other local governments around New South Wales expressed interest in acquiring the new technology.

Encouraged by the growing requests for this system Coffs Harbour City Council established a new business unit, CitySmart Solutions (CSS) to realise these opportunities. Since then, over 650 units have been sold to both government and private sector clients. An outstanding achievement.

One contracted CSS project currently underway is for Moree Plains Council. This involves installing the monitoring and systems control switchboard for Moree’s sewer and pump stations, leach aid ponds, water treatment plant, water bores and reservoir, artesian pool and water ski park. Designed, managed and installed by the CitySmart Solutions team, the value of this project is in the vicinity of $3 million. Now, other projects are

Staff preparing new CSS Switch Board for Coffs Harbour Airport

from Engineer to Entrepreneur also being undertaken for Gunnedah, Mudgee, Nambucca and Shoalhaven councils.

After inventing the new switchboards, another opportunity was identified by the CSS team - fibre optics.

Council works often involve opening the ground for sewer, water, roads, footpaths and stormwater installations. So the questions was asked by Andrew, “When doing this, why not include installation of fibre optic cables ? That way the ground is only dug up once and with more and more businesses requiring high speed communications this demand could be serviced by City Smart Solutions”.

Supported by senior management and Council, the first CSS fibre optics ‘test project’, was connecting council’s administration building to the works depot. Once completed, previous problems with connectivity drop-outs and slow communications was solved. Since then another 65 locations around the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area have been connected with fibre optics. The result, a massive saving of around $2 million from Council’s operating expenditure.

In addition to the savings, the fibre optic connectivity means that communications are not limited by bandwidth enabling the implementation of more effective, efficient and cost effective technology. For businesses worldwide, this kind of communications connectivity is vital.

CitySmart Solutions product, Street Scape CCTV at Coffs Harbour Airport

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

15

When Eagle Australasia were reviewing location options for the establishment of a new Australian helicopter maintenance and sales operations base, communications were an integral part of their site considerations. Since May 2015 when the business was officially opened at Coffs Harbour Airport, Eagle have enjoyed high quality cost effective communications world wide. Managing Director, Grant Boyter said, “We have been very impressed with CitySmart Solutions systems and service. We have excellent Wi-Fi, internet and networked communications locally and importantly with our Calgary, Canada headquarters and clients world-wide. So whether we are at the office or working remotely from home we benefit from being on Council’s fibre optic network”.

It is this expertise and technical know-how that has helped Coffs Coast attract and host the Australian round of the World Rally Championships (WRC).

The communications requirements of the WRC are massive, especially for the sporting operations, media, TV and teams.

Clerk of Course, Wayne Kenny said, “We couldn’t stage Rally Australia without the high-capacity, high-quality and totallyreliable communications provided by CitySmart Solutions.

CSS provides all the rally’s internet and telephony needs at its major venues – the headquarters and command centre, the competitors’ service park, the international media centre and the WRC television production compound – via its fibre network and wi-fi. Its technical expertise is a tribute to the Coffs Harbour City Council and CitySmart Solutions is an excellent example of the kind of support that makes the Coffs Coast a great base for Rally Australia”.

CitySmart Solutions. Now water meter reading can be remotely managed by an IoT device. But what does this mean ? Apart from being a more cost effective method of recording water usage the system is able to assist domestic and business water users of any operating anomalies. Should there be a sudden change in the level of water usage possibly due to a leaking tap or burst water pipe, this will be quickly identified by the monitoring device and brought to the attention of property and business owners. A potential saving of the loss of water and repair expenses.

Compared to existing technology, IoT devices developed by the CSS team have other everyday uses. This includes real time GPS tracking of plant and equipment. And with miniaturisation, these devices can be attached to smaller and smaller equipment and last longer, too. One battery installed in an IoT smart water meter will last for 10 years. With demand rapidly increasing for these highly efficient, low maintenance, low cost devices, opportunity beckons.

This is why the world leading French IoT network provider, Sigfox is collaborating with Council’s CSS team to launch CitySmart Solutions IoT products and services.

So what does the future hold for Coffs Coast’s home-grown forward thinking entrepreneurial engineering team? Hopefully continued success for the CitySmart Solutions, Coffs Harbour City Council and the citizens of Coffs Coast. Only the future knows for certain but one thing is certain, fortune favour the brave. So together, let’s be brave.

Just as World Rally relies on high speed broadband connectivity to televise the sights and sounds of high speed cars rallying through the Coffs Coast countryside, other organisations similarly rely on technology for CCTV security. This was another opportunity identified by CitySmart Solutions. After developing and testing new technology to improve CCTV performance around 150 cameras were installed via fibre optic cable in and around Coffs Harbour to improve security for residents, visitors and businesses. This security system, under the name of ‘Street Scape CCTV’ has now been marketed and sold to Inverell, Shoalhaven, Kingscliff and Albury councils. Another CitySmart Solutions success.

But wait, there’s more. It’s called, the Internet of Things or IoT. And in plain language, low powered, long range connected devices.

Last month, Coffs Harbour City Council, installed Australia’s first smart water meter, and yes you guessed it, developed by

So together, let’s be brave.

16

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

17

West Coast Eagles Josh Kennedy

F LO S ’ O A TI N G F I F FIFO WORKERS FOLLOW FOOTY PLAYERS IN FLOATING AWAY STRESS ith National Pain Week recently, it’s time to shed some light on the latest and greatest therapy treatment taking the pro footy world by storm – and it has now made its way into the regimes of FIFO workers…

A growing number of fly-in fly-out workers are following in the footsteps of WA footballers like Josh Kennedy and Nat Fyfe and floating their stress away.

W

FIFO workers were also floating to help reset their body clocks back when arriving home.

Research has shown that float therapy, which involves floating in small-car-sized pods filled with water and epsom salts, can help reduce stress, depression, anxiety and pain, including from muscle tension.

“Studies have also shown floating helps promote sleep and increases optimism – as well as aiding creativity – so it’s a great tool for boosting both physical and mental health.”

Floating enhances relaxation as the pods block out all external distractions such as sights, sounds and gravity.

Nick Dunin, co-founder of Beyond Rest, said the group’s float centres in Perth and Joondalup were noticing an increase in FIFO workers coming in for the therapy for its therapeutic benefits.

“Typically, we see fly-in fly-out workers floating before they head back to the mines because many of them find that time stressful as they’re again facing leaving friends and family for an extended time,” said Mr Dunin.

“Float therapy is a great way to calm the mind and senses so it can just help them chill out a bit and ease the transition back to work after their time at home.”

“Another common thing we hear from FIFO floaters is they do it because it helps them come off night shift and get them back onto normal time, which has a huge upside because they’re not grumpy for the first few days at home and can actually enjoy their family time faster,” said Mr Dunin.

West Coast Eagle Josh Kennedy floats before every AFL game to help him stay calm and relaxed for the big day.

“It’s like a reset button which clears the head and helps me concentrate on the things I can control instead of worrying about the things I can’t,” he said.

Olympic swimmer Stephanie Rice, Australian cricketers James Pattinson and Marcus Stoinis, former footy star Paul Medhurst and even Perth-based rocker Kevin Parker of Tame Impala fame are also floating fans.

Internationally, NBA star Steph Curry and American football team the New England Patriots float, Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney reportedly owns his own tank, and Olympic gold medallist Carl Lewis has been a devotee.

Visit beyondrest.com.au to learn more about the floating phenomenon!

18

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

JA M E S S T A N N A R D WITH THE FOOTY SEASON IN FULL FORCE, WE SAT DOWN WITH RUGBY LEGEND JAMES STANNARD FOR A CHAT… TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND… I was born in Brisbane. My first job was out of high school as an apprentice boilermaker and I spent the next four years trying to finish my trade. Soon after that I was lucky enough to play some professional rugby with a couple of super rugby clubs: the Western Force and ACT Brumbies, and I also played a season of rugby in Japan. The rest of my career was spent travelling all around the world playing Sevens for Australia.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO PROFESSIONAL FOOTY? I took a punt one day and dropped everything to move to Western Australia to try and play myself into a contract. I spent a year playing club rugby and was picked up by the Force Academy. I spent another year fighting for a full time contract and persistence paid off in the end! It’s been ten years since then, so I count myself very lucky to have played this long!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CURRENT GIG IN FOOTY… I’m playing for the Australian Men’s Sevens team that plays on a world circuit in ten destinations. We’re a full time program based in Narrabeen at Sydney. It sounds like a dream job and at times is, but the reality of it is it’s very different to what the outside perceives it as. The training involved is in a league of its own and the mental side of the game is the toughest I have experienced. I play in the halves, which involves a lot of different rolls and a shit load of running.

HAVE YOU HAD ANY FUNNY MOMENTS OF FAME WITH FOOTY? DO PEOPLE EVER RECOGNISE YOU ON THE STREET? I was playing at the Wellington Sevens one year and it was a small crowd. As we were warming up at one end a bloke kept spraying me calling me Darren, as in Darren Lockyer – “you’re too slow and old Darren,” “Rogaine Darren, get on the Rogaine you bald old man.” He didn’t stop commentating the whole warm up and the guys thought it was hilarious! Basically letting me know I was balding (laughs).

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING THING ABOUT PLAYING RUGBY AS A JOB? I think the most challenging part of the job, apart from the toll it takes on your body, is being away from my wife and kids. We are away a lot for long periods of time and really it takes its toll after a while.

For all the latest Rugby fixtures, head to www.rugby.com.au ■

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

19

DAVID STRASSMAN He’s known for his stagecraft in ventriloquism and this Winter, funny-man David Strassman returns to our shores to show us what his sassy puppets have to say.

WE TOOK SOME TIME OUT WITH THE LEGEND HIMSELF… So, you’re coming back to Australia!

Tell us your favourite thing about being down here…

Australia is my second home! I’ve been performing here since 1991 and I just love the quality of life here in “straya!” I mean, where else in the world, every Saturday arvo, can you count on a sausage sizzle at Bunnings?

Tell us a bit about your new show – we hear you do up to six voices at once?!

Yes, I break all laws of puppet physics! Using a wireless handheld controller, I operate and throw my voice into five puppets’ mouths for a 20-minute, hilarious conversation/argument on what is real and what isn’t. It’s mind-blowing - and the work and technology that goes into this feat of raw performance is the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my career!

Without giving away your secrets, how on earth do you juggle so many characters simultaneously?

That’s simple - practice and hard work! It took a year to prepare and rehearse for this show.

How did you discover you had this talent?

I don’t think I discovered this talent. I think after years of consistently making people laugh, and getting paid for doing good work, I naturally fell into it. Ventriloquism is a pretty daggy profession. It’s down there with mimes and jugglers. I’ve tried my best to make it cool and worth watching.

What’s your favourite thing to do, or place to visit, while down under?

I love a cold stubby on a beach at a barbecue. I love camping and 4-wheel driving in the outback. I’ve been fortunate to spend some serious time in the Simpson Desert, The Alice, Gulf country, the Kimberly’s, Cape York and The Grampians.

Funniest moment as a comedian?

Any memorable on-stage moments?

When Ted’s leg fell off in front of the entire audience and I had to put it back on in front of everyone!

Do you ever get nervous?

No. I think being nervous is a sign that you’re unprepared. That can happen to anyone if you don’t know your sh*t.

Biggest on-stage blunder?

Never had one. Yet!

20

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

THE CRITICS AGREE - HIS BEST SHOW EVER “An event not to miss!”

“He truly is a master” “Spellbinding technology”

“It reignites your inner child!”

“Unbelievable” “Extraordinary performer”

“A truly remarkable performance that appears to defy reality” - Adelaide Advertiser

FOR TICKETS, HEAD TO TICKETMASTER.COM.AU

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

21

Gumbaynggirr

C ULTUR A L S HOW Around ten thousand years ago, when sea levels were lower than today, the off-shore Solitary Islands that now dot Coffs Coast’s eastern horizon were all part of the Australian mainland. And long before European settlement the Gumbaynggirr people would gather on the hilltops overlooking Coffs Harbour and the islands for ceremony, dance, bush tucker, story telling and learning the traditional culture of their people. The Dreamtime.

Today, on those same hilltops we now call Sealy and Korora Lookouts in Orara East State Forest, stories of the past are being revived, retold and relived.

On the second Saturday of the month, Gumbaynggirr Cultural Tours are now being conducted by descendants of our first inhabitants. Starting at Sealy Lookout, you are welcomed in the Gumbaynggirr language (with English translation) and taught a few words to get you into the spirit of the place. Once you get your tongue in tune, your legs, arms and hands get to join in the fun too. Chief guide Clark Webb along with other members of the Gumbaynggirr community teach you some of their traditional words with song, movement, clapping and usually much laughter.

After this exercise, it’s time for some tucker - damper cooked on an open-air campfire. Supervised by Aunty Jenny, children get to mix the flour and water making the dough that when cooked is mixed with honey making a delicious treat - yum or darruy in Gumbaynggirr. While that is happening Uncle Tony demonstrates how ‘toys’ of kangaroos, goannas and other native animals were once made from local clays.

Next comes the walking and talking with Clark and elders explaining how their ancestors told story and kept watch over country from on high. Of how the goanna Gumgali escaped from hunters and how two sisters went their separate ways to walk around Australia before returning to their home country. In the Dreamtime this took place in clearings made among the ridgetop forest, but today it is from the high vantage points of the Forest Sky Pier and Korora Lookout. From both locations the views are stunning - south over Coffs Harbour and north along the coast and out to the Solitary Islands.

The tour takes about two hours but be sure to arrive early as a small market is in operation prior to each tour. After the tour, stay a while to linger under shelter at Sealy Lookout or on bench seating at Korora Lookout and let the whispering winds and ocean visitas take you back to days of the Gumbaynggirr dreamtime.

For further information and to book your tour, visit www.bmnac.org.au and click on the Tourism link.

The next two tours are scheduled for Saturday 10 June and Saturday 8 July starting at 3.00pm from Sealy Lookout. All are welcome.

22

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

23

PUZ ZLES

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

Difficulty rating

Difficulty rating

1

2

Difficulty rating

Difficulty rating

2

SOLUTIONS

3

1

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

4

Issue 39

5

24

4

6

3

PUZ ZLES

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

Difficulty rating 5

Difficulty rating 6

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

25

BLUESFEST 2017 All the way from Byron Bay…

Joseph Mayers Photography

B

luesfest graced the fields of Byron Bay over the Easter long weekend and it was a great show with the highlyanticipated Jimmy Buffet performing for a very happy

bunch of fans on the green. Over the speakers were a couple of Buffet’s usual covers, including Take the Weather With You (Finn) and Brown Eyed Girl (Van Morrison).

Much to the delight of Jimmy’s fans, he expressed his disappointment that this was his only show in Australia this year and promised to do more next year. Can’t blame the bloke for loving the land down under, really!

At 70 years old, he still has amazing energy. The legend always wears shorts and always looks like he’s having even more fun than the audience.

C

ontrary to some reports Bluefest was not Buffet’s first Australian performance since falling of the stage in Sydney in 2011. He did an intimate acoustic show without the whole band at the Mt Cootha Botanic Gardens in September of 2012, and also made a surprise free appearance at Snapper Rocks on the Gold Coast in March, 2014.

In an Instagram post after Bluesfest he said: “Fins up Australia.

That was an amazing night – thank you for having us! AN amazing night.”

And the whole of Bluesfest was a raging success, as fans from far and wide ventured to camp under the stars for five nights of musical magic in this spectacular part of the world!

As a bit of a gag, Jimmy Buffet’s most famous song ‘Margaritaville’ now gets an additional verse about falling off the stage, which makes an interesting addition!

Here are the lyrics he used at his show at the 2017 Byron Bay Bluesfest: So I went to Australia Land of fine sailors Sheilas and surfers not acting their age Well the lights may be too bright It sure wasn’t stage fright Whatever it was I walked off the stage There was lots of discussion About my concussion Those stitches and bruises that covered my frame So I flew to Hawaii For acupuncture and sake And tonight here in Byron Hell I’m still in the game!

26

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Lachlan Douglas Photography

Evan Malcolm Photography

Tickets are now on sale for Byron Bay Bluesfest 2018.

Head to bluesfest.com.au to learn more!

Joseph Mayers Photography The_Tradie_Ad_Feb2017.pdf 1 8/02/2017 2:51:51 PM professional indemnity | public liability | business insurance | personal accident | tax audit insurance | management liabilty | personal accident

www.

Where Smart Tradies go to Save on their Insurance C

M

Y

CLICK

multiple quotes from Australia’s leading insurers at bizcover.com.au

INSURE

your business instantly and receive your documents via email.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

SAVE

yourself time and money backed by our price promise

BizCover Pty Ltd (ABN 68 127 707 975; AR No 338440) is a corporate authorised representative of Mega Capital Pty Ltd (ABN 37 098 080 418; AFSL 238549). Level 5, 260 Elizabeth Street Surry Hills 2010. © 2016 BizCover. All Rights Reserved.

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

27

ILLY Following the hot release of his new album, Two Degrees, Illy recently wrapped up an Australian Tour…

Illy is a 30-year-old Aussie Hip Hop artist hailing from Melbourne who is trail-blazing the music scene, city by city. He just wrapped up his latest tour to celebrate the release of his new album, Two Degrees, and Aussie audiences where rattled by the intense shows held at each of our capital cities.

The tour highlights the new albums latest bangers mixed in with that classic urban style that has seen this legend win Aria awards.

He has composed with songbirds like Vera Blue, Anne-Marie and Owl Eyes on tracks like Papercuts, Catch 22 and Tightrope, and has left our heads in a spin with anthems like You Say When and Two Degrees. Standing in the same space as fellow Hip Hop greats like Bliss n Eso, Illy’s unique and captivating sound continues to blow the minds of his fans not only in Australia, but worldwide, as he travels in the name of his talent, spreading the infectious beat of Aussie Hip Hop across the globe.

The Two Degrees show at Brisbane was held at The Tivoli, a classic theatre-style venue that can hold an intimate crowd of 1,500 tops, and the place was packed. Illy die hard’s came in droves, drenched in merchandise and ready to bust out all the air in their lungs along with Illy’s tracks. First, fans saw supporting artists Maribelle, Spit Syndicate and Paces – a compliment to the era of modern-day urban hip-hop music. Despite the alreadyamplified vibe, the crowd outdid themselves and went wild when Illy busted onto the stage about half an hour early. No matter the vantage point that night – mosh pit or mezzanine – Illy was out in full force and everyone in the room was having a great time.

28

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Of course all good things come to an end, so you can imagine the crowds excitement when the rapper made an explosive encore with his hit track, Papercuts and all the other favourites.

Leaving the theatre with Illy-lovers covered head-to-toe in his branded shirts and caps, it’s obvious this guy is the real deal and has major moves to make in the music world yet!

Thanks for the epic show, Illy!

To get your hands on Illy’s latest album, Two Degrees, email competitions@ttmediagroup.com.au and tell us why you love this legend!

AUSTRALIA’S GREATEST SMOKO TOOL

THE

ON TAP!

(patrick@ttmediagroup.com.au)

WHY NOT

>>

Fill in the form, take a photo, text or e-mail it back for 12 months supply direct!

e-mail patrick@ttmediagroup.com.au

or SMS 0417 775 844

FREE STUFF

W IN A PA IR OF

U VE X SP ORT ST YLE

SAFE T Y GL ASSES!

No matter what industry or sporting activity, the uvex sportstyle delivers the perfect combination of performance, safety and style. Lightweight at only 23 grams and perfectly balanced, these glasses provide extended wearer comfort with optimal fit and are 100% UV protective. The adjustable and soft nose bridge is extremely flexible for a comfortable and customised ergonomic fit. The use of high-tech materials means that wearer will experience the highest levels of comfort and with its athletic and slimline design this spec is suited perfectly to those who wear PPE for long periods. The side arms combine hard and soft materials; soft grip on the inside of the arms and brow ensures a non-slip fit and optimum wearer comfort. This spectacle is approved to AS/NZS 1337.1 – medium impact protection, and is available in clear and grey lens for indoor or outdoor applications.

Save your pennies and try your luck nabbing some ’ve awesome freebies – you got to be in it to win it!

>>

like us on Facebook for

more awesome competitions!

W IN A JA B R A SP 50 50

B LU E T O O T H

SP E A K E R P HON E The Jabra SP5050 is a super-slim speakerphone, measuring 2.3 inches wide by 4.9 inches long by 0.4 inch thick. Use this tool in older-model work vehicles for freehand communication while you’re on the road! It’s also lightweight and is black with a silver trim. There’s a large speaker grille on the front, while the volume buttons are on the left and right side. It’s legal to operate and is safe to operate during your busy work day!

WIN ONE OF ILLY’S NEW ALBUMS

TWO DEGREES!

Australian platinum-selling hip-hop artist Illy has released his 5th studio album, ‘Two Degrees, featuring lead single “Catch 22 (feat. Anne-Marie).” Produced by Grammy winning producer M-Phazes (Eminem, Kimbra, Meg Mac), the album also features the double platinum single “Papercuts (feat. Vera Blue)”. Illy was recently nominated for a total of 6 ARIA Awards including Best Male Artist for the hit single “Papercuts.” After the release of “Papercuts” in July, which peaked at #2 on the ARIA singles chart, and over 8.8 million streams, Illy has become one of the highest streaming Australian artists in this territory, with 1 million monthly listeners, racking up over 20 million worldwide streams. Now, new single “Catch 22” featuring British singer and ARIA platinum artist Anne-Marie is set to follow in the footsteps of “Papercuts.” With Illy’s trademark lyrical sense of wit and catchy harmonies, it will fast become a live favourite.

“Sometimes life isn’t about always making the ‘right’ choices.

Some of the best times are when you do the opposite.

‘Catch 22’ is about knowing that” – Illy says of the track

30

Issue 39

www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

WIN 1 X HSV137 WATE R RE PE LLEN T FL EE CY HOOD IE

VA L U E D AT $ 6 9!

The HSV137 Water Repellent Fleecy Hoodie with 3M Waterguard Protector is a great all-rounder, keeping you extra warm and dry at work this winter. With a large hood, sturdy plastic zipper, secure zippered chest pocket, two open side pockets, waist toggles, UV protect, anti-pill and water resistant 3M protection that has to be seen to be believed, this hoodie is the ultimate in workwear. It can also be zipped into all Prime Mover Shell jackets to make this clever fleecy hoodie a very handy 3-in-1 jacket. Available in black, navy and two high-vis colour contrasts; Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy.

For your nearest stockist, visit www.primemoverworkwear.com.au.

A L P O R TA B L E IT IG D P U E G R A H C X 1 IN W R O M $ 6 9!

F D E U L A V K N A B R E POW

Ideal for when you’re on the go, travelling for business or leisure, the ChargeUp 6000 is slimline and compact, which makes it the perfect addition to every backpack, laptop bag, handbag or briefcase.

No power supply? No Worries! The ChargeUp Offers comes fully pre-charged for instant use and provides up to 3-4 phone charges before needing to be recharged. How will you know when to recharge the power bank? It’s simple. Thanks to a handy digital display you’ll always know how much power you have left. The ChargeUp 6,000 can be used to power any device that uses a USB connection to charge, and like the 10,000 can charge two devices at once.

WIN 1 X SWISSTOOL

X SPEIDRATI T $265 VA LU

This tool features a leather belt pouch, locking blades and is lightweight. It includes needle-nosed pliers, a wire cutter for thin and soft wire up to 40 HRC, hard wire cutter, large blade, Phillips screwdriver 1 – 2, reamer, multipurpose hook, can opener, screwdriver 3 mm, bottle opener, screwdriver 6 mm, crate opener, wire bender, scissors, wood saw, metal saw, metal file, screwdriver 2 mm, chisel 7 mm, wire scraper, cable cover longitudinal cutter, cable cover crossways cutter, scraper, wire stripper and is made of Stainless Steel. You can grab one from victorinox.com – or WIN won here!

TO WIN, EMAIL COMPETITIONS@TTMEDIAGROUP.COM.AU TELL US WHY YOU NEED THIS FREE STUFF IN YOUR LIFE! www.transtasmanmediagroup.com

Issue 39

31