Woopi News April 2024 Issue 56

Page 19

Woolgoolga and Surrounding Areas

APRIL 2024 issue #56

Your FREE community magazine

Vision Property Sales is honoured to announce our seventh consecutive win as Woolgoolga Agency of the Year.

Whether you're looking to sell, buy or lease, call today to discuss your real estate needs.

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 1
6654 8711 – www.visionpropertysales.com.au – 49 Beach Street Woolgoolga –

Woopi Words to Live by April

1. When asked if my cup is half full or half empty my only response is, I am grateful that I have a cup – Sam Lefkowitz

2. When my energy is high, these weeks are a breeze. When it’s low I know I need to slow down and recharge… life is not linear, nor is business. One tip that I call on almost dailydon’t overthink it, just get it done.

Sarah Poole, One Fine Day

3. It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up. – Babe Ruth

4. We are not all in the same boat. We are in the same storm. Some have yachts, some canoes, and some are drowning. Just be kind and help whoever you can. – Damien Barr

5. Having inner peace means committing to letting go of self-criticism and self-doubt. – Sanaya Roman

6. Write it. Shoot it. Publish it. Crochet it. Sauté it. Whatever. MAKE. – Joss Whedon

7. You’ve gotta dance like there’s nobody watching, love like you’ll never be hurt, sing like there’s nobody listening, and live like it’s heaven on earth. – William W. Purkey

8. Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten. – Neil Gaiman

9. Everything you can imagine is real. – Pablo Picasso

10. When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us. – Helen Keller

11. Do one thing every day that scares you. – Eleanor Roosevelt

12. Whatever you are, be a good one. – Abraham Lincoln

13. The same boiling water that softens the potato hardens the egg. It’s what you’re made of. Not the circumstances. – Unknown

14. If we have the attitude that it’s going to be a great day it usually is. – Catherine Pulsifier

15. Impossible is just an opinion. – Paulo Coelho

16. Magic is believing in yourself. If you can make that happen, you can make anything happen. – Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

17. Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don’t and believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance, take it, if it changes your life, let it. Nobody said that it would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it. – Harvey Mackay

18. If something is important enough, even if the odds are stacked against you, you should still do it. – Elon Musk

19. In a gentle way, you can shake the world.

– Mahatma Gandhi

20. If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door. – Kurt Cobain

21. Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.

– Roy T. Bennett

22. Work hard in silence, let your success be the noise. – Frank Ocean

23. Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.

– H. Jackson Brown Jr.

24. The only difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.

– Jimmy Johnson

25. The best way to appreciate your job is to imagine yourself without one. – Oscar Wilde

26. Sometimes when you’re in a dark place you think you’ve been buried but you’ve actually been planted. – Christine Caine

27. Don’t limit your challenges. Challenge your limits. – Unknown

28. Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come. – Unknown

29. Everyone has inside them a piece of good news. The good news is you don’t know how great you can be! How much you can love! What you can accomplish! And what your potential is. – Anne Frank

30. Your passion is waiting for your courage to catch up. – Isabelle Lafleche

2 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024

Welcome to Woopi News ...

Happy April,

Every year, Woolgoolga Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi, and every year, I hear the residents of Woolgoolga sharing their disappointment in missing it. So this year (I wrote it in my diary last year), I’ve ensured we don’t miss it. (Make sure you put it in your diary now!)

There’s lots happening during April, including some great live music at the Seaview Tavern and Woopi Brewing Co. and on April 21, the Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre will host an Arts Music and Culture Festival.

We have an update on the Woolgoolga Whale Trail and some fun photos from the community dressup day we held last month to celebrate Fluro Friday’s 11th birthday.

Thank you once again to our “community contributors”, particularly Bob Breen, for all his great community news editorials.

Bob has prepared for us, among other things, a comprehensive guide to Woolgoolga’s Anzac Day ceremonies and an update on the War Memorial refurbishment.

Woopi always has a great turnout on Anzac Day. I hope to see you at the march. Lest We Forget.

Also, thank you to Robert Watkin for his photos every month including our fabulous front page.

There’s a bigger version of this poster on page 15 with all the info.

But most exciting is, we bring you the news of a brand new baby sea lion being born at the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. So, if you want to meet this little guy, Woopi News readers have access to a 10% discount code which is ‘WOOPI10’. On page 9 there is a QR code for you to scan to make your online booking and apply the discount. The discount code WOOPI10 will work

Woopi News was established in 2019 and is a free monthly community news magazine for Woolgoolga and surrounding areas.

Publisher/Editor/Advertising: Lisa Nichols - lisa@woopinews.com.au - 0410 052 601 Graphic Designer/Pre Press: Brad Nelson

www.woopinews.com.au

ABN: 27 728 512 311

The paper we print on is FSC certified, Responsible Forestry CO1068, produced with ECF pulp, meets ISO14001 Accreditation, EFC Elemental and TFC Chlorine Free!

Woopi News makes a constant effort to ensure content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the contributors opinions and are not necessarily the views of the publisher and editor. The published material, advertisements, editorials and all other content is published in good faith. Woopi News cannot guarantee and accepts no liability for any loss or damage of any kind caused as a result of reading our publication. All rights reserved and nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without a written consent.

♻ Please recycle your edition. If you’re not saving it, pass it on to someone else or take it back to the shop you picked it up from.

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 3
Don’t forget to tell ’em “You saw them in Woopi News!” Youare worth y I am Worthy Important Numbers Emergency 000 Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 eheadspace 1800 650 890 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 Mensline Australia 1300 78 99 78 24hr Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 13YARN 13 92 76 QLife 1800 184 527 Woolgoolga Police 6654 1244 Want to meet this little fellow? Lisa Publisher/Editor Advertising Brad Graphic Designer Pre-press GOOD FOOD FACE PAINTING BOUNCY HOUSE GOORI DANCERS LOCAL LIVE MUSIC GOOD FOOD FACE PAINTING BOUNCY HOUSE GOORI DANCERS LOCAL LIVE MUSIC

Woopi has turned Piiink

Some of our Piiink Merchants

Beachouse Café

Big Garden Furniture

Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine

Coastwalk Remedial Massage

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary

Eco Caravan and Camping Hire

Eco Threads

Esmé Bar & Kitchen

Everlush Oracle

Exit 59

Ground Earth

HOME + YARD

Jed’s Bakehouse

La Hacienda 101

Moose and Me

Peckish Penguin Café

Sandy Beachouse & General Store

Secret Valley Plants

Taffy’s

That Beach Shop

The Good Beautician

Voodoos 101

Woolgoolga Beach Bottleshop

Woolgoolga Beach Lotteries

Woolgoolga Mobile Caravan Repairs

Woopi Boxing Club

Woopi Brewing Co

Woopi News

XS Surf

Check out the Piiink facebook page - Piiink Coffs Coast for more update s

The Piiink app doesn’t just give you great discounts at all your favourite stores, it also donates to local charities.

Yes, that’s right, every time you make a purchase using the Piiink app a portion of of what you spend goes to a local charity.

On the Coffs Coast we currently have several to choose from. Mid North Coast Disabled Surfers Association is one you can nominate as your charity. Every surf season volunteers give people with disability a chance to enjoy the ocean and to give surfing a go. It’s a great organisation to support with your Piiink purchases. Just go to your profile button on the app, select charity then choose them.

Beachouse

Sandy Beachouse & General Store

From 7am to 2pm each day you can receive 10% off all food orders. Then from 2pm 25% off pies and fridge display food such as wraps, toasties, croissants and frittatas.

Sandy Beach Drive, Sandy Beach

Voodoos 101

Offering 10% off everything from 11am to 6pm all week. Nostalgic old school burgers and traditional fish and chips. Takeaway available.

1/101 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach

Everlush Oracle

Offering 11% off all readings all week. Astrologist and Psychic. Are you uncertain about anything? Visit Everlush for a spiritual pep talk and your cosmic messages. 0402 515 456 or www.everlush-oracle.com

Big Garden Furniture

Offering 5% all day everyday off their 100% Australian handcrafted hardwood indoor and outdoor furniture manufactured here in Woolgoolga

20 Bosworth Road, Woolgoolga

Discounts could change any day or any hour, so check out your app to double check what’s currently on offer. Simply open app, click on the Merchants button at the bottom, choose view all to scroll through merchants or search for the one you are after in the top search bar.

If you would like to sign your business up as a merchant please email coffs@piiink.org

Scan here to download the app or sign up in-store

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S A N D Y B E A C H

Vaisakhi 2024

The annual Vaisakhi Parade is set to wind its way through the streets of Woolgoolga, celebrating the founding of the Sikh community, the Khalsa. This year, the festival will take place on Saturday, 13th of April.

The festival’s history dates back to 1699 when the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, came out of a tent carrying a sword and asked for anyone who was prepared to give their life for their religion to step forward. A young man stepped forward, and then Guru Gobind Singh asked for another volunteer four times until five Sikhs had gone into the tent. Guru Gobind Singh then baptised all the men into the Khalsa, meaning the “Pure Ones”. They became the first members of the Khalsa, named the 5 beloved ones.

Sikhs celebrate the Vaisakhi festival by going to the Gurdwara in the morning for a service. Then they have a Nagar Kirtan procession which involves taking the holy Sikh Scriptures, the Guru Granth Sahib Ji through the streets to bless everyone in its path while singing and chanting in a colourful spectacle. The parade will begin at the Guru Nanak Sikh Temple, River St and will travel down High Street, Gordon St, Nightingale St, Nelson St, Queen St and Beach St, stopping temporarily at the Centennial Oval. At the oval, the community is invited to come together and enjoy Sikh Martial Arts, singing,

and traditional Punjabi food. It’s a spectacular sight full of colour and wonderful traditions, and everyone is welcome. So feel free to line the street to wave them on and join everyone at Centennial Oval. The parade is set to start around 10am, and the procession is expected to reach Centennial Oval

sometime between 12pm to 1pm for about 1 hour. The Parade will then restart and will travel to the First Sikh Temple in Hastings Street, finally finishing up back at the Guru Nanak Sikh Temple in River Street at around 3pm.

Servicing

7

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WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 5
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Afrin Restaurant – Red Rock

From Syria to Red Rock (via Iraq)

In 2011, the war in Syria forced the Ebo family to flee to Iraq. Mum - Marklin, Dad - Fwze, and their two sons Jay and John.

Marklin was a lawyer in Syria, and had to re-study her degree in Iraq. But after two years of studying, she was told that she couldn’t practice law in Iraq as she was not a citizen. The family spent almost four years there before they were offered an opportunity to move to Australia and be safe from Isis. They knew nothing about the country, except its shape on the map. In 2014, they arrived in Coffs as the first Kurdish family, and now there are around 200 Kurdish families settled in our area.

Not wanting to study law all over again, Marklin, with her family, has taken over the bistro at the Red Rock Bowling Club, where they offer delicious Kurdish meals with lots of dips, salads and Syrian recipes. The restaurant is named Afrin, which is the city where Marklin lived in Syria. All of their dishes are cooked on a charcoal grill and are usually served with garlic sauce, hummus, lovely fresh Biwaz salad and Lebanese bread. You can choose from lamb and chicken or vegetarian. Everything is all made in-house has a delicious fresh taste to it.

It’s hard to imagine the challenges and difficulties Marklin and her family have faced. But their resilience has led them to create a thriving business and become a valued part of our community. You should enjoy a meal with them soon.

WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS
Bring a natural coastal harmony and warmth into your home with coastal colours and natural textures. Wide range of affordable coastal homewares from seashells to unique furniture pieces. We ship Australia wide. Shop 3/62 Beach Street, Woolgoolga Phone: 0418 402 073 Open 7 days and also online www.thatbeachshop.com.au
The team from Afrin Restaurant at Red Rock �� Tamily Harling
ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 7 open thur to sun from 12 noon Scan for tickets 7 Willis Rd WoolgooLGa Love your local open thur to sun from 12 noon

Woolgoolga Whale Trail Project

The Woolgoolga Whale Trail: Views, Accessibility and Safety

It’s been a long time coming, and while it may not be exactly what we envisioned, it’s certainly a step in the right direction.

The commencement of construction marks a significant milestone for our community and promises to showcase the natural beauty of our area.

With a project value of $1.1 and accessibility but also a renewed connection between Woolgoolga Beach Reserve and the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk.

Construction officially began on March 18, with completion slated for June 30, 2024, weather permitting.

The route along Pollack Esplanade between Woolgoolga Beach Reserve and the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk has long been enjoyed by locals and visitors, though somewhat precariously, for many years. However, with this upgrade, it is expected to become more inviting with the opportunity to enjoy the view instead of watching out for the traffic.

The project’s scope is comprehensive, with final designs carefully considering community feedback, environmental factors, cultural heritage assessments,

accessibility, safety standards and engineering requirements.

The pathway will be widened to 1.8 metres and will include a boardwalk, offering a seamless connection between the reserve and the existing headland path.

Improvements such as formalising the existing parking area, road widening, enhanced safety measures, extra seating, and lookout points will also be incorporated.

Funding for the project comes from a $1.1 million Community Development Grant provided by the NSW State Government through the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications. This investment underscores the importance of enhancing local infrastructure and promoting community well-being.

guide you throughout the duration of the works.

As construction progresses, the community eagerly awaits the unveiling of this fabulous project, which will undoubtedly enrich the local experience for residents and visitors.

Acknowledgment goes to community members and groups who have tirelessly campaigned for a better version of this trail. Unfortunately we can’t win them all.

For more information and updates on the Woolgoolga Whale Trail project, please check out the council website.

This project aligns with the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve Masterplan of 2018, and the Woolgoolga community is excited to see it come to fruition.

While this phase addresses key aspects of the masterplan, we look forward to further upgrades being implemented as funding becomes

https://www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/ Your-Council/Projects-and-initiatives/ Current-projects/Woolgoolga-WhaleTrail-Project

Legend

1. Whale Trail: a new 1.8m pathway and boardwalk providing a connection between the reserve and the existing headland path

2. E xisting parking area formalised with line marking

3. A new lookout and seating

4. E xisting open lawns are retained

5. E xisting lookout retained Accessible parking provision

WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – APRIL 2024
Whale Trail: a new 1.8 m pathway and boardwalk providing a connection between the reserve and the existing headland path legend pollack esplanade carrington street arthur street
1 1 3 4 4 5 2

Discover local wildlife up close.

Discover how you can protect local wildlife and the environment.

Be inspired to act and help save our oceans for future

SCAN TO BOOK

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 9
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Bishop Druitt College Honours Scott Rodham

Maths Supremo Scott Rodham honoured by Bishop Druitt College

Woolgoolga resident Scott Rodham, who was acknowledged as Plantations Lifestyle Resort 2023 Communitarian of the Year, has received further recognition for his service to the Mid-North Coast community, this time from Bishop Druitt College (BDC), Coffs Harbour, where he taught mathematics for 18 years, as Deputy Principal. Before accepting an appointment at the College in 1994, Scott taught mathematics for 47 years at Nyngan, Coonamble, Tamworth and Grafton.

Scott became one of the founding fathers of the College’s science and mathematics faculty. Appointed Head of Secondary in late 1994, he ‘stood up’ the new secondary school with a $60,000 budget by the beginning of the 1995 school year in February. He established a computer lab, procured essential equipment for the Science laboratory, sourced textbooks with the assistance of two other foundation staff members and created the new school’s class timetable. Scott was the first Head of Mathematics and taught at the College until he retired from the classroom in 2012.

The Principal, wishing to keep Scott ‘on the books,’ reassigned him to a unique role as the Alumni Officer and Archivist after he retired from teaching, he still holds this appointment at 78 years of age in 2024. In this postretirement appointment, he researched, compiled, and published a commemorative book, The Collegian, 20 Years

On, and applied his love of singing to crafting the initial rendition of the College song. He went on to assist in the publication of a 30th Anniversary commemorative book containing further articles on College history and vignettes on high-achieving alumni.

Unbeknown to Scott, the College wished to acknowledge his contribution in an enduring and formal way. In anticipation of the opening of a new modular Mathematics block consisting of four classrooms with operable walls, a meeting room with a kitchenette, as well as a mathematics staff room and storeroom in March 2024, the College Executive and Council decided to name this building ‘The Rodham Building’.

The BDC student choir, College Executive, College Council and representatives of the Grafton Diocese attended the opening of the Rodham Building on 5 March, where Scott amused attendees with the announcement that the combination of his primary and secondary education, his pre-BDC teaching career and his years at BDC, he had been ‘at school’ for 73 years.

10 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
✍ Bob Breen OAM �� Bishop Druitt College Scott Rodham and the Rodham Building Plaque Bursar - Shane Oxley, Chair of Council - David Ford, Principal - Nick Johnstone, Scott and Keryn Rodham and former Head of Maths St John Paul College, Ron Verbruggen The Rodham Building, Bishop Druitt College

CURRYFEST … lots of fun with lots of benefits

Planning is already under way for Curryfest 2024 which will be held on September 28 this year

Lots of locals still ask why they must pay $10 to get in. Well, without a gate charge, there would be no Curryfest. It is not a Saturday market but a festival catering for 14,000 people. The event’s costs vary but averaged $153,000 per year over the last three years.

The $10 adult entry fee covers a third of those costs. Sponsorship, stallholder fees, and any grants they receive are no longer enough without admission fees. Some bigger costs include entertainment (fees, travel and accommodation for dancers, bands and celebrity chefs - they do not perform for nothing), equipment hire (stages, PA systems, marquees, portaloos, seating) and advertising. There are many other running costs such as electricians, security guards, toilet cleaners and other paid staff on the day, insurance, road closure traffic management, Council DA and reserve hire fees, waste management and first aid services, to name a few. The event organisers use volunteers for many tasks on the day and make substantial donations to those groups who assist. Most importantly, kids are still free to keep it familyfriendly.

Curryfest has no annual guaranteed funding from any level of government, so we must compete for grants. If the event isn’t profitable or breaks even, the Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce has to cover the losses. If it makes a profit, those funds are reinvested in the community by the Chamber and via donations to groups such as the local athletics club, local Red Cross branch, junior surf lifesaving club and local art gallery. Many other community groups have benefited in the past from thousands of dollars worth of Curryfest donations, including the Garden Club, Rotary, Scouts, Meals on Wheels and the local SES.

So why do it if it costs so much? Curryfest brings thousands of visitors to our town (two-thirds of those attending are from outside the local government area and stay an average of 3-5 days, spending money here in our Northern Beaches community).

Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce spends over 80% of the costs of holding Curryfest with local firms.

With spin-offs, it is a $2 million boost to the Coffs Coast

economy. For many community groups, it’s a big part of their fundraising. It promotes our town and celebrates our unique heritage.

For just $10, you get a festival full of food and entertainment, you help donate to community groups and boost local businesses, and you can take pride in helping celebrate and promote our town. That’s a lot for just $10.

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 11
Woolgoolga Beach Lotteries Lotteries • Newspapers • Magazines Monday-Friday 7.30am-5pm Saturday 7.30am-12pm Sunday 8am-12pm Phone 6699 3598 66 Beach St, Woolgoolga (front of Bottleshop)

Coffs Coast Long Lunch

We all spend time in the kitchen, but what’s it like running a commercial kitchen?

The theme of the third Coffs Coast Long Lunch is ‘Kitchen Stories’.

Four local, well-known, talented, and respected guest speakers will share their joys, their challenges, and their food journeys with you.

Speakers include an artisan baker, a restaurateur, a local caterer and a charity outreach kitchen.

Hear what happens behind the scenes. There will be laughs, learnings, and ‘oh my’ moments from an amazing group of local women in food.

Guest speakers include Laura Mariel Gonzalez of Peach & Wolf Family

Bakery, Nicole Donovan of ESMÉ Restaurant and Bar, and Dianne Knoblock of Raleigh Coffee and Eats. The format is a short, informal inconversation with each speaker, with a Q&A to follow.

If you’re a food lover, you won’t want to miss this long lunch at Shearwater Restaurant’s stunning waterfront location - in their downstairs event space.

On arrival, you will receive a Welcome drink and canapés. Then, you will indulge in a delicious main course chosen from a seasonal Autumn menu, a glass of wine with lunch, and a dessert platter.

Coffs Coast Long Lunch is a bi-annual event that started in 2023. The aim is to showcase local food – and connect the community with local food producers, growers, and providores, to celebrate the quality of food available with low food miles in the Coffs Coast region. Their ethos is Local Food. Community. Connection.

Whether you live locally or are visiting from out of town, Coffs Coast Long Lunch is an opportunity to learn more about the Coffs Coast food scene by meeting the people who are busy creating it.

Enjoy a relaxed and fun event with other like-minded food lovers. Whether you’re a foodie, a cook, or can’t cook to save yourself, this event offers foodie know-how as well as delicious dining.

Bookings are essential, and there are various ticket options: Foodie Single, Foodie Friends ticket for two, and tables of 4.

It doesn’t matter which ticket you buy, one lucky person will win our premium food lovers’ Lucky Door Prize!

An indulgent new ticket option is the VIP Luxe Extras Ticket for TWO – which includes CCLL signature cocktails for two, plus two Pink gift bags.

The Talk & Taste Tables were such a success at the previous long lunch that they will return. They will offer tasting samples, an opportunity to chat oneon-one with our speakers, and foodie items and merchandise to purchase on the day.

The full menu options – including vegetarian and gluten-free options –are detailed on the event page: https:// kitchen-stories-ccll.eventbrite.com.au To purchase tickets please go to: https://kitchen-stories-ccll.eventbrite. com.au

Enquiries: cclonglunch@gmail.com or phone 0410 444 136.

12 – WOOPI NEWS –
35 River St 6654 0111
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KUMHO p ass enger & 4WD tyre s
LED Spotlights & Lithium Batteries

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary celebrates a birth

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary celebrates the birth of the cutest little male sea lion pup.

The Sanctuary is abuzz with excitement as they announce the recent birth of a male Australian Sea Lion pup to proud mother, Adelaide. This adorable arrival signifies a major step forward in the Sanctuary’s ongoing commitment to the conservation of this endangered species.

The yet-to-be-named (at the time we went to print) seal pup

as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts in protecting our precious marine life. Through initiatives like the breeding program at Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, we can make a real difference in safeguarding the future of Aussie Sea Lions and their habitats.

76 Beach Street Woolgoolga (next to Beachouse Cafē) Phone 6654 1049 or find us on facebook Free H2Earth T shirt with every spend over $150 *Conditions Apply Free H2Earth T shirt with every spend over $150 *Conditions Apply

The Big Blueberry

world’s heaviest blueberry. Costa Group, a global leader in the development of premium blueberry varieties, has hit the record books for developing and growing the world’s heaviest blueberry, according to the official Guinness World Records.

The blueberry was from the Eterna variety, as part of Costa’s globally recognised Variety Improvement Program (VIP), which licenses Costa bred blueberry varieties in regions including the Americas, Morocco, China, and South East Africa.

The blueberry was picked on November 13, 2023, at Costa’s berry farm in Corindi. Weighing in at a whopping 20.40g (0.71oz) and measuring 39.31 millimetres, it was grown by Brad Hocking, Jessica Scalzo and Marie-France Courtois. The previous world record was for a 16.20g berry grown in Western Australia in 2020.

Costa’s VIP program is headquartered at Corindi and has been operating for more than 25 years, developing on average one to two new varieties of blueberries of global commercial value each year.

It utilises Costa’s extensive network of farms in mid latitude, low latitude, and low chill to mid-chill locations to select,

evaluate and develop new varieties suitable for a range of global growing conditions, meeting both customer and consumer requirements.

Senior Horticulturalist Brad Hocking said the Eterna variety is known for its large fruit size, crisp texture and long shelf life. “This really is a delightful piece of fruit. While the fruit is large, there’s absolutely no compromise on quality or flavour,” Brad said. While the team is excited to be recognised with the world record, quality and flavour remain the top priority in selecting and developing new varieties. They are always looking to improve on the current benchmark and meet evolving customer requirements.

14 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 Book your appointment Online today www.thegoodbeautician.com.au 100-104 Harbour Drive, Monterey Arcade,Coffs Harbour Phone 0416 777 142 • Rebuilds skin from the inside out • Boosts collagen formation • Immediately feel smoother hydrated skin • Wrinkles and expression lines disappear • Treats uneven skin tone A natural facelift Oxygen Facials Beachside Beauty Nautilus Resort https://airbnb.com/h/beachsidebeautysapphirebeach Call Moira - 0405 064 886 Sapphire Beach, NSW 2450

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LOCAL LIVE MUSIC

Woopi Gardens

Music in Woopi Gardens

The Woopi Gardens Community Music event held last month turned out to be a huge success, with around 100 people in attendance.

The event featured two amazing duos; Them Too consisting of River Williams and Ian Collier, followed by Chris Aronsten and Mark Feeney.

The musicians treated the audience to a delightful blend of ballads, covers, Irish jigs, and original compositions, played out on a wide variety of instruments.

The guests were able to keep cool under the fans or in shady spots on a hot afternoon while enjoying the high-quality music being played in a relaxed atmosphere.

Fellow musicians and

guests couldn’t stop raving about the event, with many expressing how wonderful it was to just hear and enjoy the music being played. The success of the event wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated volunteers who put in their time and effort to make it happen.

For those interested in booking these talented musicians for their next event, they can be contacted via Facebook at riverwilliamsmusic or www. chrisaronsten.com.au

The Woopi Gardens Community Music event is one not to be missed, so keep an eye on Woopi News for updates on the next upcoming event.

Our

To

We’re open Monday to Saturday from 8am till 12noon

We’re open Monday to Saturday from 8am till 12noon

Come and join us for morning tea

Come and join us for morning tea

good

well-being and environmental awareness via a shared garden for people of all ages, abilities and cultures to enjoy. 79

897 439

0490 897 439 79

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WOOPI GARDENS
all.
aim is to build a sustainable garden accessible to
Scarborough Street (next to Netball Courts) www.woopigardens.com.au
Scarborough Street (next to Netball Courts) www.woopigardens.com.au 0490
encourage community involvement,
health,
EJ Merrick, Mark Feeney, Chris Aronsten, Joy Richardson, Ian Collier and sitting down at the front is River Williams Event organiser Joy Richardson also joined Them Too for a rendition of Mama Cass’ Dream a Little Dream of Me Chris Aronsten and Mark Feeney were thoroughly enjoyed by the crowd in the shade on a hot day Them Too a duo of River Williams and Ian Collier started the day off on a good note

What I like about working at Woopi Gardens

Woolgoolga Gardens is a fun, outdoor learning space where you interact with nature and help create a beautiful space for the community.

There is always so much to learn, whether it be about the bees from Tony, compost or just new plants. Every week I go, I come back with new knowledge (and maybe a plant or two).

The volunteering community is like a second family, always kind and welcoming with big smiles on their faces. They are always happy to pass on any tips or tricks they have learnt in their time around the block. Morning tea! I love coming for the learning but this is an added bonus each week. We get to taste some amazing treats cooked by the fabulous Sandie and Glenda. I am never short of thrilled by the amazing things these ladies can whip up.

Woolgoolga Gardens is the perfect combination of some of my favourite things, nature, plants, people and of course food.

All the changes I've seen happen in the short time I have been volunteering is amazing. It truly shows just how amazing nature is and shows that gardening waits for no man. Before volunteering, I remember being told that gardening was therapeutic and slow paced. I can’t lie about the first point, but there is an endless task of things you could do to help improve your garden and my time at Woopi Gardens has helped me learn this.

My mum and I joined around September last year when we moved to Woopi as something for me to do on the

weekends. We were new to town and didn't know many people, but the volunteers at Woopi gardens welcomed us and made us feel right at home. They truly show just how amazing the community can be and help make Woolgoolga an even better town. My family and I travelled for six months and visited about a hundred towns and I have never seen one with as good a community garden as here.

I love making happy memories here and I hope to make so many more with the community at the Gardens.

WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 17 Locally Made Sustainable materials Delivery or pick up Standard units or custom sized for your garden or business Covers available to keep out pests and birds Irrigation systems available @franksgardenbeds www.franksgardenbeds.com How good is everything Locally Made Sustainable materials Delivery or pick up Standard units or custom sized for your garden or business Covers available to keep out pests and birds Irrigation systems available @franksgardenbeds www.franksgardenbeds.com How good is everything Locally Made Sustainable materials Delivery or pick up Standard units or custom sized for your garden or business Covers available to keep out pests and birds Irrigation systems available @franksgardenbeds www.franksgardenbeds.com How good is everything

Northern Beaches 2024 Anzac Day Guide

Dawn Service

Dawn Service participants are invited to assemble at the Diggers Club forecourt and car park from 5am. Orders of Service will be distributed from 5.15am for a 5.30am start. The Service will conclude by about 615am. 41st Battalion, The Royal New South Wales Regiment, is expected to provide a Catafalque Party for Dawn and Main Services. Trumpeter/Bugler Dave Michael and Lone Piper William Mackie and Woolgoolga Zingapella Choir are expected to perform at the Dawn and Main Services.

Limited seating will be provided under gazebo shelters, and seating will be under cover around the Memorial, mainly for senior citizens. Please bring umbrellas and wear raincoats and hats if rain is forecast, as there is insufficient cover and seating for everyone. A hearty breakfast will be served in the Diggers Club dining area from 6.15am to 7.30am—no more than $20pp. Everyone is to pay individually. There are no free breakfasts for those wearing medals. Bars will be open, and tea/coffee will be available for purchase.

The March

The March assembles in front of the Post Office from 10.30am, stepping off at 11am on order from the Parade Marshal.

The Order of March is:

Contingent 1 Band, Veterans and Legacy

Police escort

Coffs Coast Pipes and Drums

Flag orderlies

RSL sub-Branch President

sub-Branch executive

Anzac Day Chaplain

Parade Marshals

Veterans

Legacy

Contingent 2 Schools

The Lead School for 2024 will be St Francis Xavier Primary.

Other Schools expected will be (in March order):

Woolgoolga Public School

Corindi Public School

Woolgoolga High School

Saint John Paul College

Bishop Druitt College

Sandy Beach Public School

Contingent 3 Service Clubs and Community Organisations

Red Cross

Rural Fire Service

State Emergency Service

Marine Rescue

Surf Life Saving Club

Silver Salties

Mullaway Public School

Lions Club

Rotary Club

(if any other service club or community organisation would like to march as a contingent, please get in touch with sub-Branch Secretary Christopher Chayko VR on 0432 127 071 to ensure they have a position in the Order of March and are acknowledged during the Main Service.)

The Main Service

The Main Service will be at the Diggers Club War Memorial, scheduled to begin after everyone assembles after the March at about 11.15am. The Service is scheduled to conclude no later than 12.15pm.

Limited seating will be provided under gazebo shelters, and seating will be under cover around the Memorial, mainly for senior citizens. Please bring umbrellas and wear raincoats and hats if rain is forecast, as there is insufficient cover and seating for everyone.

Please provide water for the children. They should wear hats if a hot, clear day is forecast. Adults should consider wearing a hat, bringing a bottle of water and, if necessary, a foldable camp chair.

Lunch will be available after the Main Service – orders from after 12 noon using the standard Diggers Club Menu. No separate ANZAC Day Lunch menu or tickets will be issued. Everyone should expect to pay for their lunch individually.

Seating for RSL sub-Branch Members, their families and friends will be reserved. If community members and march contingents want to join the RSL sub-Branch group at the Lunch, please

telephone the Honorary Secretary, Christopher Chayko, on 0432 127 071 with numbers and names. Additional regular seating will also be available. During Lunch, the fabulous Coffs Coast Pipes and Drums will entertain. Glengarry collection for donations to this much-loved volunteer band will be conducted.

Your Guide to Wreath Laying for Anzac Day

The tradition is for service clubs, community organisations, families, and individuals to lay wreaths during the Dawn and Main Anzac Day services. Organisations, families and individuals are responsible for their wreaths. Those laying wreaths should pre-position them on the tables provided by the sub-Branch in the forecourt of the Diggers Club.

Those who wish to lay wreaths are kindly requested to contact the subBranch Secretary Christopher Chayko VR on 0432 127 071 to ensure they are called on over the Public Address system to collect and lay their wreaths. Lotus Floral Studios (02 6654 9494) supply fresh wreaths. More permanent wreaths are available from other suppliers. E-mail the sub-Branch: WoolgoolgaSB@rslnsw.org.au if you need more information.

Volunteer Flag Bearers, please

The sub-Branch invites Northern Beaches resident students over 15 years of age from any high school to volunteer as Flag Orderlies for the Dawn and Main Services and March Flag Bearers (all in school uniform). Please telephone the Honorary Secretary, Christopher Chayko, on 0432 127 071 if you are a student who would like to take part.

If you want to support Anzac Day commemorative activities in Woolgoolga, please call the subBranch Secretary, Christopher Chayko VR, on (02) 6654 2095 or WoolgoolgaSB@rslnsw.org.au

18 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024

Northern Beaches Memorials Project Update

We need your ‘Likes’ on Facebook

In February 2023, the Northern Beaches Memorials Project (NBMP) was launched with the support of local service clubs and community organisations. The aim was to modernise the Diggers Club Memorial and restore the 1923 Woolgoolga and District Great War Memorial, elevated on a three-step plinth on public land in the heart of Woolgoolga near the beach.

In August 2023, Woopi News announced that Wyong Leagues Group had donated funds to facilitate the Woolgoolga RSL subBranch commissioning a design for a modernised Diggers Club War Memorial that would facilitate the return of marble name plaques from the current memorial back to their original location on the stored 1923 Woolgoolga and District Great War Memorial in preparation for its restoration. “We proudly support the Northern Beaches Memorials Project that promises so much for the northern beaches community,” said Glenn Buckley, the Wyong Leagues Group Venue Manager at the Diggers Club.

The NBMP is delighted to offer a proposed design for community endorsement before seeking quotes for construction. Community support will be crucial for securing sponsors to fund the construction of the refurbished memorial. The success of the Diggers Club modernisation phase will set the scene for reinstating the 1923 Woolgoolga and District Great War Memorial.

The enhanced Digger’s Club Memorial design continues to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the First and Second World Wars. It now includes the locations of post-Second World

Local State member Gurmesh Singh, with representatives from Northern Beaches service clubs and community organisations, attending the launch of the Northern Beaches Memorials Project in February 2023

War and post-Cold War campaigns and peace support operations inscribed on the memorial face with small holes for poppies to be placed in remembrance. It will continue to be the destination of the Anzac Day March and the location of the main Anzac Day ceremony. The restored 1923 Great War Memorial will be the location for the Anzac Day dawn service and the November 11 Remembrance Day Service each year. The modernised memorial will be the focus for younger veterans and their families for Anzac Days as well as other days commemorating particular campaigns and peace support operations, such as in Korea, Vietnam, Somalia, Rwanda, PNG (Bougainville), Solomon Islands, East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Funds from the Wyong Leagues Group and a passionate and committed local design team have delivered a magnificent design that the Woolgoolga RSL sub-Branch membership has warmly endorsed. The NBMP thank Tony Ross, a former President of the Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce, and his design studio 22 team led by architect Andrew Wilson, a Mid-North Coast resident since 2004 and Emma Barnes, building and interior designer and another midNorth Coast local, for the design’s simplicity and dignity. The design studio 22 team will be the project managers for the refurbishment of the Diggers Club Memorial and will advise on technical aspects of the restoration of the Great War Memorial.

What can you do to support this project? “We now seek the Northern Beaches community endorsement by ‘liking’ the design on the Woolgoolga RSL sub-Branch, Rotary and Woopi News Facebook pages and sending e-mail endorsements to the Woolgoolga Rotary and RSL subBranch e-mail addresses. They will be proud of their endorsement when gathering on commemorative days in decades to come.” said Bob Breen, NBMP Convenor.

Contacts:

Rod Mackenzie

President, Woolgoolga Rotary Club rotarywoolgoolga@gmail.com or 0419 728 888

Colonel Bob Breen OAM (retd), President, Woolgoolga RSL sub-Branch Convenor, Northern Beaches Memorials Project

Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Chayko VR (retd) Honorary Secretary Woolgoolga RSL sub-Branch. Secretary, Northern Beaches Memorials Project

Phone/Fax: (02) 6654 2095

E-mail: WoolgoolgaSB@rslnsw.org.au

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 19
The proposed design for the Diggers Club War Memorial Glenn Buckley, displaying Wyong Leagues Group $10,000 cheque with Bob Breen and Christopher Chayko

Silver Salties

Silver Salties enjoy their 2023/24 season dinner Their motto is ‘Fun, fitness and friendship for older Australians’. The Woolgoolga Surf Lifesaving Club (WSLSC) Silver Salties recently celebrated their 23/24 season dinner after their free-charge end-of-season Nippers BBQ on Sunday, 10 March. Nippers is a junior development program at the WSLSC that introduces children aged five to 14 to surf lifesaving.

The BBQs raise substantial funds for the program. The final BBQ was a ‘thank you’ free of charge to Surf Club Nippers Program volunteers, who received a free chicken burger and soft drink, and every Nippers participant received a free ‘poppa’ sausage sandwich and a bag of gummies.

There are no costs involved in joining the Silver Salties; all activities are free of charge and followed by participants having coffee. The Salties do a coastal walk from the Surf Club on Mondays, beginning at 8.30am. A Chair aerobics class is offered at the Club House on Tuesdays at 8.30am –an informal Catching Waves group boogie and body board at 8.30am on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. The Nippers shouted a group of Salties to dinner at the Seaview Tavern in appreciation for their BBQ efforts in 2023/24. Thank you again to Graeme Burgess and Sue MacNamara.

If you are interested in the Silver Salties, more information is available at https://woolgoolgaslsc.com/the-club/silversalties or turn up at 8.30am at the Surf Club on weekdays and Sundays and speak with one of the Salties who will give you a warm welcome.

– WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 Woolgoolga Coastal Chemist 46 Beach Street, Woolgoolga 6654 1893 Flu Vaccinations are in! Save time book your Flu Shot via this QR Code. Walk ins welcome. Monday–Friday 9am–4pm. Take ADVANTAGE and book in early.
End of season Nippers BBQ Group with some happy customers Salties enjoying Nippers ‘Thank you’ End of Season Dinner at the Seaview Tavern

Woolgoolga Art Gallery

The Woolgoolga Art Gallery had a fantastic March with an exceptional Australian Flora and Fauna exhibition.

The opening night was a celebratory affair with lots of food, drinks and live music. The exhibition showcased high-quality work, and there was a four-way tie for the people’s choice winner! The gallery also hosted a fun Paint & Sip event, which allowed absolute beginners to try painting while having a night of laughs and endless creative fun, facilitated by Jess Portsmouth, founder of Woolgoolga Art School. If you’re reading this before the Easter weekend you will be able to attend the Art by the Sea market on Easter Saturday at the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve.

The local creative community will display a range of handmade items and incredible art. There will also be various art demonstrations. See you there!

There are several exciting upcoming exhibitions:

• Autumn: The Changing Season and its Moods

April 12 to May 12

• Captured: A Photographic Exhibition

May 17 to June 16

• 3D Exhibition: Wood, Glass, Ceramics and Textiles

June 21 to July 21

• A Printer’s Perspective: Print Making Exhibition

July 26 to August 25

• Woolgoolga Art Prize (Former Lillipilli)

August 30 to September 29

• Celebrating Diwali

October 4 to November 3

• Figurative Works: Face and Form November 8 to December 8.

The gallery accepts artworks from members and the general public, and if you’re a local creative who wants to get involved in one of the upcoming exhibitions, please reach out to exhibitions@woolgoolgagallery.com.au Exhibitor entries close the Friday before the exhibition opens. All events are open to the public and presented by the volunteer members who work hard to keep the community gallery going.

Everyone is invited to attend the opening nights, enrol in a

class, participate in a workshop, or simply come down to view the monthly exhibits and diverse artworks on display. There is also some great gift ideas on display. The gallery is open to the public every day from 10am-4pm, and it’s free to walk in and check out the local artistic talent. It’s located at 73 Turon Parade, next to Rainbow Cottage Pre-School. You can scan the QR code for more details.

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 21
Woolgoolga Gallery 73 Turon Parade I 02 6654 1054 Open Daily 10am-4pm Create, Discover & Connect Yoga & Meditation Rejuvinate With Jayne: Classes starting back February 2024 WOOLGOOLGA COMMUNITY VILLAGE (Boundary Street) Vinyasa Flow – Mondays 5.30-6.30pm Gentle Yoga – Tuesdays & Thursdays 5-6pm 1 x Class $12 JANKIANAND STUDIO WOOLGOOLGA Aerial Yoga – Wednesdays & Fridays (Bookings essential) 3 x Classes $43 or 1 x Class $16 All Classes end with Guided Meditation Ph: 0403 126 904 Dan Backhouse Dental Prosthetist • All Dentures • Same Day Reline/Repairs • Chrome Casting • Implant Overdentures • Sports Mouthguards No GAP Payment on NSW Oral Health Vouchers or DVA HiCaps, Afterpay and Zip Money Available Our Practice Locations Coffs Harbour 0407 140 447 109 West High Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Urunga 02 6651 3499 2/26 Bonville Street, Urunga NSW 2455

Plantations Lifestyle

Ulong Music Excursion

Plantationers were out and about at Ulong, attending a Saturday brunch/lunchtime music session by Julie-Ann ‘Jules’ Glur, of Looking for Lucy Music, at the General Store and Café in the Valley. Everyone enjoyed an extraordinary assemblage of contemporary, folk-rock, country, blues and roots music from this virtuoso guitarist and songstress. The audience, luxuriating

on the Café’s lush lawn under the trees, warmed to Jules’ relaxed, informal and engaging storytelling through the introductions to several songs she had composed. What a wonderful, adventurous life she has led. She played for longer than her two hours – the crowd was delighted – and left everyone inspired and uplifted.

Katie and her staff at the Café in the Valley were terrific hosts, and they served delicious morning teas and lunches. There are live music performances 10.30am-12.30pm on most Saturdays. The food is on for breakfast, morning tea,

brunch and lunch. The Café opens at 7.30am and the kitchen closes at 1pm.

Judy Finlay, who began learning to play guitar with Jules at age 70, rustled up over 20 Plantationers, who thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Thank you, Judy and Christina Latham, who drove the Plantations bus to and from Ulong.

If you, your business or your community organisation would like to hear Jules play and tell her life stories, please make contact on her Facebook page, ‘Looking for Lucy Music’, or via e-mail: julieann.glur@gmail.com

��

Thong Throwing

Last month’s edition did not cover the results of the Thong Throwing Competition conducted as part of Australia Day celebrations.

John Dwyer defended his 2023 title successfully, and Sherry Mashman won the women’s competition. Both showed that a clever wrist flick achieves a longer distance than a ‘full arm’ throw.

Brian Conway disqualified himself from competing for bringing the wrong type of thong to the competition.

Tuesday

Saturday

John and Sherry had their names included on the coveted Golden Thong Competition Shield and are refusing to coach anyone in their unique techniques as they prepare to defend their titles next year.

✍ �� Bob Breen OAM

22 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
������ NOW OPEN ������ ‘Down the Alley in the Secret Valley’ 58 River Street Woolgoolga So drop into the nursery and be in on the Secret. Phone 0499 770 248 6 days a week
to Friday 10am - 3pm
& Sunday 10am - 1pm
Plantationers attending Looking for Lucy concert at Ulong Guitar student, Judy Finley and teacher, Jules Glur at Ulong Sherry Mashman, women’s 2024 champion thong thrower, with Golden Thong Shield
WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 23 Quality Furniture Beatties Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday closed Sunday 9am-12pm Cnr Pioneer St & Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484 www.beattiesfurniture.com.au FREE DELIVERY TO THE WOOLGOOLGA AREA Easter Sale On Now! 20% off RRP entire range *conditions apply

Community embrace of centenarian Mary Soulos

In 2022, Woopi News acknowledged how the residents of Campbell Street, Safety Beach, had embraced 98-yearold widow Mary Soulos, and other seniors, with kindness and connection. There is a risk of social isolation during the twilight years, especially after partners pass. No one is left behind in isolation on Campbell Street.

Mary lived independently for over 20 years after her husband, Peter, passed, knowing that she was safe at home and could ask neighbours if there was anything she needed. Mary knew that someone close by could assist in an emergency. She was also a warmly welcomed guest at street gettogethers, house dinner parties and celebrations.

Mary remained independent until her 99th year when a minor car accident ended her driving, and a fall in April 2023 resulted in a broken hip. She is now a resident at the Woolgoolga Retirement Village.

Neighbours convened a family and friends birthday party in Campbell Street. She received letters and cards from King Charles and Queen Camilla, the Governor General, His Excellency

General the Honourable David John Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and Mrs Hurley and the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese,

If you’re seeking suggestions on how to foster a caring environment in your neighbourhood, particularly for seniors, both the Australian Red Cross and Neighbourhood Connect offer valuable ideas to consider.

https://www.redcross.org.au/act/ action-catalogue/kindness/

https://www.neighbourhoodconnect. org.au/things-to-do-with-neighbours/ Mary has led an exciting life of wealth, destitution, car racing, travel and community service. Mary was born on 6 February 1924 in Sandgate, Queensland. She was the youngest daughter of Leonard Walmsley and Jean Gilmore, members of pioneering families from the St George and Surat Region, QLD. Leonard owned a sheep station at St George. He sold it in the early 1920s and brought two hectares of land on the Brisbane River across from New Farm Park. He went on to buy a sheep station in Normanton in the Gulf Country. A fledgling airline called QANTAS supplied it by parachute. Tragically, Leonard died in 1930 when Mary was six years old, and the family lost everything to drought and the Depression. After initial schooling on the Atherton Tablelands, Mary was sent to a school for ladies in Manly, Sydney, in 1934. She lived with her grandparents around the corner from the school. She developed a love for the beach, tennis and going to the movies. Her mother, Jean, worked hard to keep Mary, her three sisters and one brother in school. By the 1950s, Mary had become the

24 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
Personal Assistant of the CEO of Mobil Oil Australia (ExxonMobil from 1999), a position she held for 29 years. She lived in Randwick, Sydney, when she met her husband, Peter Soulos, at a
New variety of slow cooker meals, stews, casseroles and curries, marinated shanks, ham hocks and bacon bones WOOLGOOLGA CENTRAL, NEXT TO POST OFFICE 6654 8877 Safety Beach

friend’s dinner party. Peter, a Second World War veteran, was the only son of a wealthy Greek immigrant family who owned cafés in the Sydney CBD. Family benevolence allowed Peter to pursue his interests in car racing, travel and other hobbies. He raced and rallied an XJ Jaguar; Mary would navigate from the back seat. Peter and Mary travelled all over Australia in their beloved Jaguar cars over the coming years. After living in Sydney in the 1960s and 70s, Peter moved to Campbell Street Safety Beach to a beautiful home with expansive ocean views, high up overlooking the neighbourhood.

After Peter died of lung cancer in 2003, Mary began a new season in her late 70s, 80s, and 90s, devoting herself to getting out and enjoying activities with service clubs. She loved children but was not a mother herself; she became a surrogate grandmother to children on her street and is devoted to her nieces and nephews. She joined Legacy at Coffs Harbour in 2002, the Woolgoolga View Club and the Red Hat Society, which devotes itself to supporting women

in pursuing fun, friendship, freedom, fitness and fulfilling lifelong dreams. Mary also joined the Woolgoolga Red Cross Branch in their 2014 Centenary year and proudly continued to be their eldest Member, supporting local fundraising activities, such as their Friendship Afternoon Teas. Mary is partial to good Scotch and still enjoys the beach, listening to music and watching movies. Mary’s family, friends and neighbours are pleased about her 100th birthday, and they look forward to celebrating 101 amazing years in 2025!

Better Hearing. Better Living.

A simple appointment can make the world of difference for your world. With our years of experience and so many choices in technology, our passion is to achieve the best possible outcome for you each and every time. Call 1800 314 526 to schedule your appointment with Julie Murphy, our Senior Clinical Audiometrist.

• Local Australian owned and independent clinic

• The latest range of world leading technologies available

• Accredited to provide both private, pensioner and

• We do hearing aids better!

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Heart Farm

Heart Farm is nestled in the serene landscapes of West Lanitza, just thirty minutes out of Woolgoolga. It stands as a haven, a sanctuary where individuals are invited to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, nurturing their mind, body and spirit while fostering a deeper connection with nature, animals, oneself and the inhabitants of this earth.

The sanctuary offers a range of transformative experiences, including personalised 1:1 equine support sessions and Heart Horse medicine sessions.

They welcome individuals of all ages, as they believe that wisdom and growth know no boundaries.

The youth programs are designed to

inspire and guide the next generation on their path towards holistic wellbeing and self-awareness.

Heart Farm invites you to discover the transformative power of healing, movement, and creativity in the peaceful embrace of nature.

Join a journey of self-discovery and connection, where every step taken brings you closer to harmony and fulfilment.

Women's gatherings

Friday April 19

All welcome. Monthly gatherings

Cost - $60.00

Heart Space girl day retreat

Wednesday April 24

(9-13yrs) cost: $180.00

Heart Space Retreat

Thursday April 25 - Friday April 26

(Open age) cost: $250.00

Retreats include:

• Horse medicine, connection, care and communication

• Journalling and self observation

• Movement & dance workshops

Woolgoolga High School

YEAR 11 - COSTA BERRIES EXCURSION

Our Year 11 Agriculture students visited the Costa Berry farm recently. The purpose of the excursion was to investigate a local agricultural enterprise and gain an understanding of system-based farming. The students were treated to a tour of the facility from Andrew. They now have an understanding of the complex nature of this farm and the importance of

each part of the system. Students are now hard at work completing an assessment task surrounding this excursion. A big thank you to the team at Costas for the opportunity to learn more about your enterprise. The raspberry tasting was amazing!

2024 HOUSE LEADERS

It was great to see so many participants at our recent swimming carnival. It certainly was an awesome day. Our newly appointed House

• Animal medicine

• Yoga & meditation sessions

• Painting & potting

• Creativity

• Nature time

• Camping.

Check them out

Instagram- heart____farm

Facebook- Heart Farm

Website- www.heartfarm.au

Email: sammyross.heartspace@ outlook.com

Leaders did an amazing job supporting their respective houses, and we would like to congratulate our 2024 house leaders.

Our 2024 swimming carnival results were announced with:

1st Place - Emerald

2nd Place - Mullaway

3rd Place - Diamond

4th Place - Arrawarra.

Congratulations to Emerald!

26 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024

World Tai Chi Day

You’re Invited to World Tai Chi Day 2024 – One World ... One Breath

Once again, this year, Deb’s Tai Chi for Health classes will gather under the trees at Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre, 69 Red Rock Road Corindi Beach, to celebrate World Tai Chi and Qigong Day, and we’d love for you to join us.

World Tai Chi Day is held every year on the last Saturday in April at 10am local time, worldwide. This year is the 25th anniversary of the movement which sees people in over 80 countries come together to form a wave of tai chi energy that travels around the world as each time zone reaches 10am.

Originating in ancient China, tai chi is an effective exercise for mental and physical health. It’s easy to learn, can be practised almost anywhere, and soon delivers health benefits. Qigong is especially beneficial for health and

mental relaxation. Tai chi is a form of qigong.

We’d love you to come along on April 27 to experience what tai chi is all about. You’ll be welcome to join in or just watch as we demonstrate our tai chi forms. Either way, you’ll be part of this incredible wave of tai chi energy as

it begins its journey around the world for the 25th time. We’ll gather at about 9.45am to ensure we’re ready for that 10am start.

There’s no need to book in, but if you’d like more information, contact Deb on 0429 672 122 (please leave a message) or email at deb.marriner@gmail.com

Woolgoolga Gym needs your help to survive

Woolgoolga Gymnastics Inc, born out of community spirit, has taken over the beloved So Fun Gymnastics, ensuring its continuity as a not-for-profit club. Established in 2022 by dedicated parents, the transition from sole proprietorship to community-run endeavour marked a new chapter for the institution. Volunteers have tirelessly maintained So Fun Gymnastics, serving 190 to 300 students weekly.

Recognising the need for long-term stability, the organisation plans to hire a business coordinator and invest in coach training. To achieve this, a budget of $130,000 has been earmarked for start-up costs and improvements. Community support for this is vital. Tax-deductible donations, regardless of size, are encouraged. Sharing the donation link amplifies impact. Financial sponsorship

packages ranging from $1000 to $7000 offer individuals and businesses a chance to contribute significantly. In-kind sponsorship for services like cleaning, signage, and advisory roles is welcomed. Support for fundraising events, such as providing items for BBQs, is also appreciated. The closure of So Fun Gymnastics would not only deprive students of physical activity but also leave a void in the community.

To contribute or learn more, visit their website or contact Woolgoolga Gymnastics Inc directly. https://www.sofungymnastics.com.au

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 27 17th - 19th April 2024 9:30AM - 12:30PM Holiday l Kids’ K d Club NORTHERN BEACHES ANGLICANS 19 SCARBOROUGH ST, WOOLGOOLGA 0450 255 055 MUSIC GAMES CRAFT LEARNING ABOUT GOD! KIDSCLUB@NORTHERNBEACHESANGLICANS.ORG.AU SCHOOL KI D S K-6

Meet the Owner and Stylist Carole Beros: Carole started out in design overseas, ended up in Australia back in the 80’s. She married, had children, and returned to her passions, which are Fashion Styling and design, writing, photography and enjoying the buzz of working with the general public. She is the owner of Boutique Le Dãin Designs in Sawtell. Le Dãin Designs Jewellery and accessories are also available at Beachfront Opal Cove Resort.

ladies to look and feel their best at any stage of their lives. The boutique has an old school feel, with the buzz of today. You will be welcomed with a smile and get to enjoy a personalised service.

New service: Personalised or group styling sessions available.

Gi ft Vo ucher s ava i la b le .

The Boutique is situated on First Avenue in Sawtell. The store has a luxe look, but don’t be misled, clothing and accessories start at $10.00! They pride themselves in dressing ladies of all sizes (8-20 plus) at any age (18-90+) for any occasion (Casual, Work, Race days to Formal). There are experienced stylists to help you and have after hours and free local delivery services to all areas. Le Dãin Designs Boutique is renowned for their personal one on one ‘old school’ service!

You can expect to find a wide selection of AUSTRALIAN made garments in this store, which is refreshing to see. The stand out features of this store are, definitely something that has been worked on over the years. They have lounges to relax on, not just for the men ..there is always someone who isn’t into shopping and wants to sit down! Refreshments or a bubbles (at certain

store is small dog friendly! Make overs, photo shoots and styling adds to the list. Definitely a DESTINATION Boutique!

28 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
Dr e ss in g Ladies of Al l S i zes CASUAL TO FORMAL WEAR • LINGERIE • MILLINERY • TO BOUTIQUE STORE LOCATED AT 36 FIRST AVENUE, SAWTELL •
WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 29 zes at Any A ge fo r E ve ry O cc a si on O SUIT ALL BUD GETS • MAKE-OVERS • ST YLING • PHOTO SHOOTS • SIZES 8-22 • 0417 471 019 • SITUATED NEXT TO SAWTELL RSL

Locale Learning - Women in leadership

AN OPPORTUNITY TO STEP UP AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY

The current state of representation

In line with International Women’s Day last month, we have been delving into the representation of women in local government. This is of particular interest with the NSW local government elections coming up later this year.

Historically, women have been underrepresented in political leadership at all levels of government, and this remains the case today. Change is happening, but it is slow. In NSW’s last local government elections, women accounted for 39.5% of all councillors. This was an 8.5 % jump in the proportion of women elected in 2016/17 (i). Whilst this was a positive shift in the right direction, there is still some way to go to reach gender parity in representation within local government in NSW.

Here in the City of Coffs Harbour, we have three women councillors within the elected council (out of nine possible positions). Yet the 2021 census reported that 51.7% of the Coffs Harbour area population are women. So, there is some work to be done to achieve gender parity at a local level.

Why equal representation matters

Local government is said to be the government of the people as it is most closely connected to local communities, and its role is to deliver outcomes that meet the needs and aspirations of the community.

It is important that this group of people are reflective of their communities so that decisions are made that reflect these diverse needs and interests. As the Former Minister for Local Government, Shelley Hancock has said:

“It goes without saying that organisations flourish when they have gender parity and our councils are no different. Strong, effective councils are those that reflect the diverse communities they serve and represent ...”

Common barriers to political participation

So, what can we do to shift the current statistics so that our elected leaders represent the fabric of our local community?

First, it is important to understand some of the common barriers women face when stepping into political leadership. Research (ii) shows that for many women the juggle of career, caring responsibilities and unpaid domestic labour with a civic role is too great. A Victorian study (iii) identified that women felt their confidence was an obstacle due to unfamiliarity with campaigning in general and/or questioning whether they had the skill set to be a councillor. Additionally, recent research from the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership found the number one barrier for young women entering politics is concerns about workplace culture.

Ways to reduce these barriers

In NSW, recent changes to councillor working conditions have resulted in a positive shift that supports greater participation by women in civic office. This includes the following:

• Introduction of superannuation for mayors and councillors

• Requirements for councils to cover the reasonable cost of childcare arrangements to allow them to undertake their civic duties

• Opportunity to participate in council meetings virtually.

The Victorian study into the experiences of councillors after the 2020 elections concluded that there is a need to better support the unique needs of women councillors, particularly young women balancing high housework and caregiving demands on top of paid employment. This includes better pay, more flexibility in the payment of childcare expenses and an allowance to outsource housework. The latest research (iv) shows Australians are generally supportive of these measures.

30 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024

Reasons to take the leap

Despite the common barriers identified above, it is important not to lose sight of the many benefits for women who choose to take on the leadership journey of being a local councillor. This includes being part of creating change and having a positive impact on your local community. Especially on issues that directly affect women, young women and girls, parents and families that may otherwise have underrepresented or skewed representation. Female councillors surveyed in a recent study found many were proud of the fact that they had acquired new and valuable skills such as public speaking, running meetings and learning how local government functioned and the strategic nature of a councillor’s role. It can be a stepping stone to a future political career at a state or federal level. Additionally, there is evidence that although there are fewer women candidates in local government elections, women fare better in getting elected. (v)

Resources to help women wanting to run

For women thinking about standing in the upcoming local government election, resources are available to help you decide whether to nominate and how to run a successful campaign. Check out the support available on the Women for Election https://wfe.org.au and Australian Women for Local Government https://www.algwa.net.au websites, as well as NSW Electoral Commission https://elections.nsw. gov.au

You can also take our 7-day candidate launchpad challenge. This free online tool will help you gain clarity in your

motivation to run for civic office and decide whether it’s the right fit for you right now in your life.

Locale Learning is a Woolgoolgabased business that provides professional development and training to local government councillors across New South Wales.

We have a strong focus on supporting our elected leaders so that our communities thrive. Our work is recognised globally. (vi)

Emma Broomfield Founder and Lead Facilitator Locale Learning

www.localelearning.com.au

0421 180 881

contact@localearning.com.au

i Local Government New South Wales media release

6th January 2022

ii C arson et al, The Missing Cohort: Women in Local Government, 2021

iii Victorian Local Governance Association, Breaking Barriers: A study of women’s participation and representation in Local Government, 2023

iv C arson, A., Gravelle, T. B., Acosta Rueda, L., & Ruppanner, L. (2024). Understanding Public Support for Policies Aimed at Gender Parity in Politics: A Cross-National Experimental Study. Canadian Journal of Political Science, 1–22. doi:10.1017/S0008423923000720

v C arson et al, The Missing Cohort: Women in Local Government, 2021

vi A political Foundation, Mere Mortals: The State of Politicians’ Mental Wellbeing and Why It Matters, 2023

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 31 To book an appointment, please visit our website or call our office Monday to Friday between 9:30am – 5:00pm. Open Saturdays by appointment only. www.staysharpaccounting.com.au 5/66 River Street Woolgoolga 0408 308 101 Book an obligation free meeting with Stasha or Anita today. Accounting services available:  Business Financial Statements  Individual & Business Tax Returns  Bookkeeping & Business Activity Statements  Self Managed Superannuation Fund Compliance STASHA DUNN Principal Accountant ANITA PERRETT Senior Accountant AVRIL WILLS Accountant/Bookkeeper
GRANGER Administration Assistant Are you looking to change Accountants for your Business?
CHARMAINE

Let’s Dive Into Your Brand Story

Hey there! I’m Kirsty, a Brand Photographer on the Coffs Coast. This month we’re exploring the benefits of brand photography, including how it enhances authenticity, brand recognition, professionalism, and inspiration. Additionally, we’ll spotlight Alicia from Reel Social Haus, showcasing how she used brand photography to boost her business on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Let’s dive in!

Why should you consider brand photography?

Authenticity: Brand photography captures candid moments that truly embody your brand story and personality, giving your audience a glimpse into what it’s like to work with you. Brand Recognition: By incorporating unique elements into your imagery, you can instantly connect with your audience and enhance brand recognition, fostering trust and familiarity.

Professionalism: Consistent, high-quality imagery across all marketing platforms communicates professionalism, establishing your brand as trustworthy and well-established.

Inspiration: Your brand photography should not only be professional but also aspirational. It should inspire your audience and convey the value you offer, making it easy for them to connect with and love your brand.

Let’s shine a spotlight on Alicia from Reel Social Haus, a savvy entrepreneur who truly understands the power of branded content. Specialising in guiding businesses through the maze of short-form videos on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Alicia is passionate about helping local small businesses make their mark in the digital world.

Alicia’s expertise lies in demystifying the complexities of social media marketing, particularly for those new to platforms like Instagram. Recently, Alicia joined me for one of my ‘MINI Branding Days’, where we collaborated to create a stunning gallery of images tailored to her brand. These images now grace her social accounts, from engaging posts to captivating stories and eye-catching reel covers. By leveraging brand photography, Alicia has elevated her online presence, captivating her audience and strengthening her brand identity.

Alicia’s journey highlights the transformative power of brand photography in enhancing your digital presence and connecting with your audience on a deeper level. Through thoughtful imagery, Alicia has not only amplified her business but also inspired others to harness the potential of branded content.

Brand photography isn’t just about taking pretty pictures; it’s about telling your story and connecting with your audience in a meaningful way.

If you’re ready to elevate your brand and make a lasting impression, consider investing in brand photography. Web: www.kirstyfikkers.com

Facebook: @kirstyfikkersphotography

Instagram: @kirstyfikkers.photography

Featuring: Alicia from Reel Social Haus @reelsocialhaus

0447

0447

Established Boutique with loyal customer base.

Specialising in women’s clothing made from natural threads including plus size.

Located in Woolgoolga main shopping area.

32 – WOOPI NEWS – – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
Business for Sale
Phone owner for more info
- 0423
For all your beekeeping needs 23 Hawke Drive Woolgoolga
Karen
079 867
308 906 Mon-Fri 8:30 to 5:30 Sat 9:00 to 1:00 For all your beekeeping needs 23 Hawke Drive Woolgoolga
308 906 Mon-Fri 8:30 to 5:30 Sat 9:00 to 1:00

Fluro Friday Woopi

Fluro Friday had a busy month with two special celebrations.

On Friday, March 15, we commemorated the anniversary of the passing of Sukhi Hundal with a beautiful sand mandala. Family and friends added messages and decorated it with pink and purple flowers.

On Friday, March 22, the group celebrated 11 years of the One Wave movement freeing the funk. They joined a worldwide wave along the shorelines that was also formed at over 100 beaches in 10 different countries. (Fluro Friday Coffs Harbour also joined the movement on this day).

Woolgoolga Shop keepers joined in on the Fluro Birthday fun dressing in their brightest colours. All in support of bringing awarness to mental health. �� Robert Watkin

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 33
Armani and Andrew Hundal The Woolgoolga Coastal Chemist team were nice and bright Joy, Ricki, Kim and Esther The Mitre 10 crew joined in on the fun Emilly, Libby, Tamily, Penny and Pete Two of Woolworths’ favourite checkout chicks

Ernest Hofmeier and Minnie Eliza Collins

Married Wednesday 31st December 1913 at St Augustine’s Church, Woolgoolga Reception held at bride’s Parents residence of George and Susannah Collins. Bdm 4227

Published In Clarence and Richmond Examiner Tuesday 6th January 1914

A very pretty wedding was celebrated in St Augustine’s Church on Wednesday last, the contracting parties being Mr. Ernest Hofmeier and Miss Minnie Collins, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G Collins, of this town, Mr. and Mrs. Hofmeier, the parents of the bridegroom, being amongst the pioneers of Woolgoolga, and Mr. and Mrs. Collins old residents of the same town more than ordinary interest was centered in the happy event.

The church was beautifully decorated for the occasion by the girl friends of the bride, an arch and bell of flowers at the altar being particularly attractive. The ceremony was performed by Rev Ashley Brown, while Mrs. Small presided at the organ.

As the bride entered the church on the arm of her father, who subsequently gave her away the choir sang ‘The Voice that Breathed O’er Eden’.

The Bride who looked exceedingly pretty was gowned in a costume of ivory paillette with court train and an overdress of silk embroidered net caught with satin ribbons, brilliants and orange blossoms. She wore the usual wreath and veil and carried a handsome shower bouquet composed of asparagus ferns, sweet peas and roses. The latter was the gift of Mrs. Stone and was arranged by Mrs. Falstein while the bridal costume was from the establishment of Misses Dobbin, South Grafton.

Miss Fuller cousin of the bride and Miss Daphne Turner niece attended as bridesmaids, Miss Fuller was gowned in ivory silk, trimmed with peaked lace, ruffled neck and brilliants with hat to match the work of Mrs. Coventry of Grafton. Miss Turner chose a gown of cream Japanese silk, trimmed with lace, cream beading, and heliotrope ribbon and wore a white hat trimmed with silk roses. This confection was also the work of Misses Dobbin.

Mrs. Collins mother of the bride was attired in black chiffon taffeta silk with overdress of black silk embroidered net and ruffled lace, hat to match.

Among the guests was noticed Mrs. H Hofmeier sister of the bride who chose a coat and skirt of cream with shantung trimmed with ruffled lace and wore a white satin.

Mrs. G Turner sister of the bride in coat and skirt of white embroidered silk, hat of burnt straw with forget-me-nots and lancer plumes; Mrs. Wallbank in guipure overall with champagne ribbons and hat to match; Mrs. H Hofmeier Sen. Mother of the bridegroom in black silk dress, black hat and plumes.

The bridegroom was attended by his brother, Mr. Walter Hofmeier as best man, while Messrs. Cecil and Owen Collins acted as groomsmen.

At the conclusion of the ceremony the happy couple left the church to the strains of Mendelssohn ‘Wedding March’ and were driven to the residence of the bride’s parents, where a sumptuous repast awaited them.

In the centre of table was a handsome wedding cake, the gift of Mrs. Robinson, while the ornamenting was carried out by Mr. Thomas of Woolgoolga and reflected the greatest credit on his skill. At the conclusion of the repast the usual toasts were honoured, that of the bride and bridegroom being proposed by Rev. Ashley Brown.

Immediately afterwards the happy young people left for Grafton en route for Brisbane where the honeymoon will be spent.

The bride’s going away dress was of grey sponge cloth with grey satin straps caught with brilliants, with overcoat of grey Tuscan net; hat trimmed with pink poppies rufflette and feather to match.

The bridegroom’s present to the bride was a handsome gold bangle and to the bridesmaids, handsome gold brooches, while the bride’s gift to the bridegroom was a set of gold studs.

On a table in the drawing room was displayed a large collection of beautiful and useful presents, including some cheques from friends, amply testifying to the esteem in which the young people are held and they carry with them the kindliest wishes of Woolgoolga folk.

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M arket S t S titches M arket S t S titches PROVIDING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY 1/4 Horizontal AD - WOOPI NEWS - MSS V2 FINAL.indd 1 11/5/2022 11:16 am

104.1 CHYFM

My Radio Experience

104.1 CHYFM is not just a radio station; it’s a unique training ground and employment pathway to a plethora of communicative and media careers.

Many television personalities, journalists, actors, entertainers, sports broadcasters, media relations and voiceover artists got their start by getting involved in community radio. And many of them continue to be involved in community radio.

“It’s a brilliant training ground to experiment, learn, make mistakes, rebound, share stories and connect with people,” says Station Manager Angie Vaughan.

Local lad Matt DeGroot has had quite a career trajectory since taking a punt and giving community radio a go when he was in Year 8. After finishing school, he studied sports journalism at Uni, then worked as a sports reporter at 2UE in Sydney, and then as the newsreader for the Fitzy and Wippa Breakfast Program on NOVA in Sydney.

Now, radio has taken him to work in London.

Others who started their media careers by getting involved in community radio include Hamish and Andy, Triple J’s Zan Rowe, and NOVA 100’s Mel Tracina, to name a few. Even the best sports broadcasters in the business, Rampaging Roy Slaven and HG Nelson got their start on community radio. So, what do the new on-air presenters at 104.1 CHYFM think about their experiences?

Local Woopi girls Amber and Zoe presented their program, The A to Z of Everything, for over three years. “It was a kind of crazy program. We talked about our experiences at school, working in fast food drive-thrus, camping trips, big city adventures, and just whatever came into our heads,” says Amber. “It was great to work with my sister. We kind of think the same sometimes, which usually makes for on-air chaos,” says Zoe.

New announcers Stirling, who presents The Cold Toast Breakfast Show,

and Emelia, who presents Exploring Ecospheres, enjoy the experience. “The early starts were OK; I got used to it after a while. I get to meet and interview some amazing people,” says Stirling. “I love talking about science and technology, so sourcing content for my program is all about what interests me and when I want to find out more about, so it’s fun,” says Emelia.

104.1 CHYFM are holding a five-day On-Air Presenter Workshop during the April school holidays. “Giving young voices a platform to talk about what interests them, what they think about, and their concerns can go a long way to creating positive change, and that’s great for the community,” says Angie. Angie Vaughan, Station Manager, 104.1 CHYFM www.chyfm.org.au

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 35
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Amber and Zoe
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The Cheese Lady

Mozzarella! ‘the queen of Mediterranean cuisine’, ‘white gold’, or ‘the pearl of the table’. Undoubtedly, one of the most popular cheeses in the world!

Journey back in time to the sultry

landscapes of Southern Italy, where the tale of Mozzarella begins. Tracing its roots back as early as the 1st Century A.D., this iconic cheese emerged from humble beginnings using the creamy milk of sheep. Legend whispers of a serendipitous moment when cheese curds met hot water, birthing the accidental creation of Mozzarella. Mozzarella, similar to other fresh cheeses, has a high water content, making it low in fat; it also has a low sodium content, standing it tall as a beacon of nutritional excellence. Some varieties even boast a selection of different good bacteria, enhancing gut health with each delectable bite. Mozzarella types include Fior di Latte, the quintessential cow’s milk Mozzarella, then there is the velvety textures of Mozzarella di Bufala, crafted from the luscious milk of buffalo. Whether adorning a pizza or tantalising taste buds on its own, both variants stand as pillars of culinary delight. Embark on a journey through time and flavour as Mozzarella weaves its

tale from ancient origins to modern marvels, beckoning us to savour every moment and morsel.

If you’re interested in mastering the art of making your own Mozzarella, join me for an immersive experience in my woodfired pizza and Mozzarella class. You’ll not only discover the secrets of stretching and moulding the supple curd but also learn to craft pizza bases from scratch. Together, we’ll assemble our pizza creations and cook them to perfection in the woodfired oven. I am now running classes on Wednesdays, as well as Fridays and Saturdays from 12 to 2.30.

To find out more, visit www.artisancheeseschool.com.au or call me on 0477 000 262.

The Cheese Lady ~ Lyndall

36 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
Coffs Harbour 6651 9622 78 Albany Street Woolgoolga 6654 2477 3 Fawcett Street www.ccsp.net.au
WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements September 2022 Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements July 2023 coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6652 6500 The NSW Government is helping reduce the cost of living with more than 70 rebates and vouchers. By answering the tailored questions in the Service NSW Savings Finder tool, you can find rebates and vouchers relevant to you. You can apply by visiting service.nsw.gov.au or by scanning the QR code. Gurmesh SINGH MP

Full House at Red Cross Friendship Afternoon Tea

Woolgoolga’s premier ukulele and guitar group, the Ukeytars, entertained a ‘full house’ at the recent Woolgoolga Red Cross Friendship afternoon tea.

There are few venues anywhere in the world where, for a $2 donation, you can have ‘all you can eat’ scrumptious homemade sandwiches and cakes served with tea or coffee and listen to an enthusiastic and accomplished group of ukulele and guitar players supported by virtuoso, Rod Shaw, on keyboards.

And there is more. Attendees can pay a small amount for raffle tickets to be in for a chance to win a fresh food hamper and other amazing prizes. And there is more. Attendees can hear the MC, Scott Rodham, tell the most unbelievably corny jokes for everyone’s amusement.

And there is more. Attendees can join everyone in the room to sing some old favourites with joyful gusto.

Woolgoolga Red Cross Friendship Afternoon Teas are open to anyone between 2-4pm at the Community Centre on the last Friday of each month.

It is about connection, entertainment and community well-being. There is always room for more volunteers. You can join and do your bit with the Red Cross by sending your details to

https://www.mycommunitydirectory. com.au/New_South_Wales/ Coffs_Harbour/Legal_ Assistance___Information_Services/ General_Legal_Assistance___ Information/51322/182477/Australian_ Red_Cross_Society_-_Woolgoolga or call 0418 646 801.

38 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
16 Market St, Woolgoolga - Thursday to Monday Bookings essential 6699 2665 WWW.LAHACIENDA101.COM.AU margarita lounge open from 5pm
of Flavours open for breakfast lunch and dinner from 8am
a Fiesta

Community News – Volunteers needed

Woolgoolga & District Retirement

Village Ltd Auxiliary is on the lookout for more volunteers to join them in their fundraising efforts.

The group aims to provide the nursing home with essential items to care for the residents.

The members are encouraging all women and men who have an hour or so to spare each month to come forward and assist in planning upcoming events such as street stalls and raffles.

In the past year, the Auxiliary has organised five street stalls, Easter raffles, Mother’s Day raffles, Father’s Day raffles and a huge Monster raffle in November.

The community has shown incredible generosity in supporting these events, resulting in the purchase of four specialised beds for the residences, each worth approximately $3000. The CEO of the nursing home has expressed gratitude for the donations

and has indicated the need for more specialised beds. The group has also given $800 to the Activity Officer to purchase items to keep the residents’ brain and motor skills active.

During Christmas, the group gave eight gifts to residents who had no family. The gesture was well-received, and the residents were overwhelmed that strangers thought of them during the holidays. This year, the Auxiliary plans to do the same for residents who have no family on their birthdays.

The group holds meetings on the second Monday of each month at Seaview Tavern at 2pm. Those interested in joining can become members for a nominal fee of $1. The members keep everyone informed of upcoming events each month. To become a member or for any enquiries, please contact Lynda Johnston at 0402 274 098 or lyndalu2009@hotmail.com

Become an Australian Red Cross Emergency Services Volunteer Australian Red Cross helps

Voodoos

communities and individuals prepare for possible future emergency events (preparedness), respond to emergency events (response), and in the aftermath of an event (recovery).

Emergency Services volunteers have the opportunity to work in various settings with a diverse and dynamic team and support people in Australia as part of the world’s largest humanitarian organization.

Subject to availability, experience and interest, you may have the opportunity to undertake additional training or assist in emergency work interstate. Your impact as an Emergency Services volunteer is that you’ll help people to be better prepared, better connected to each other and more resilient when emergencies happen. Red Cross will ensure you have training, ongoing support and access to other opportunities within the world’s largest humanitarian network. Interested?

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 39
101 Put your taste buds under a spell! Old School Hamburgers and Fish N Chips Takeaway during the day with Dine-in Seafood Options at night 6656 1633 101 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach

Australian Red Cross - Emergency Services

Volunteer as an Emergency Services volunteer. You’ll help people to be better prepared, better connected to each other and more resilient when emergencies happen. Red Cross will ensure you have training, ongoing support and access to other opportunities within the World’s largest humanitarian network. Interested? Email eswoopiredcross@ gmail.com

Fluro Friday

Meet every Friday, Woolgoolga Beach at 6.30am. Supporting and bringing awareness to mental health and suicide prevention.

NSW SES Corindi-Woolgoolga Unit

Meetings and Training: Tuesdays 7pm to 9pm. Venue: 31 Coral Street. Corindi enquiries: Dona Powell 0428 297 769. For emergency help in floods, storms and tsunamis call 132 500. In a life threatening emergency call 000 (tripe zero).

Rotary Club of Woolgoolga

Meet 2nd and 4th Monday of the month, Woolgoolga C.ex Club (Bowling Club), 6 for 6.15pm.

Sandy Seinager

Monthly coffee club get together, 4th Thursday of the month, 10.30am, at Woopi C.ex. Bring your friends, jokes, stories, a few brain quizzes and enjoy a free coffee and slice. For more info phone Annie 0438 627 551.

Silver Salties

Fun, fitness, and friendship for older Australians delivered by Surf Life Saving Australia. 0419 715 730 silversaltieswoopi@ gmail.com

U3A - Australian History and Poetry

Led by the indefatigable John IMRIE of Red Rock. Woopi Library 10am - 1st and 3rd Friday each month.

Waratah Seagulls

Social Support Group for over 65yr olds. Meet twice a week Wednesdays and Fridays 9am to 3pm at the Woolgoolga Community Hall, 8 Boundary Street Woolgoolga. Call Waratah Respite Service on 6648 3610.

Woolgoolga CWA

The Country Women’s Association is a 100-year-old organisation that advocates for the welfare of women and children. It is the largest women’s organisation in Australia, and the Woolgoolga Branch welcomes like-minded women to join us. Coffee and craft on the 1st Monday each month from 10 till noon - non-members are most welcome!

Meetings are held on the 3rd Monday, 9.45 for 10am start. 21 Beach Street. Enquiries: Trish Stabback 0417 409 627.

Woolgoolga Day VIEW (Voice, Interests & Education of Women)

Meet 3rd Thursday of the month at the Seaview Tavern. Enquiries: Maisie Richardson 0400 098 230.

Woolgoolga District Garden Club

Gardeners of all levels welcome, novel, skilled, quirky or just plain passionate. Meet 2nd Saturday of the Month at 1.30pm - Woolgoolga Seniors Centre, Boundary St Competition Table - proudly displaying your gardening efforts - hotly contested (categories galore) Members Plant Trading Table a delight for choice & ridiculously cheap. Regular guest speakers - name your topic (always enlightening). Garden Outings and luncheons (very social) last Thursday of the Month. ‘Friendship through Gardens’, enquiries: woopidistrictgardenclub@gmail.com

Woolgoolga & District Retirement Village Auxiliary Meets the second Monday of each month at Seaview Tavern at 2pm. Those interested in joining can become members for a nominal fee of $1. The members keep everyone informed of upcoming events each month. To become a member or for any enquiries, please contact Lynda Johnston at 0402 274 098 or lyndalu2009@hotmail.com

Woolgoolga Lions Club

Meet the first Thursday of the month 6pm at Woolgoolga C.ex. New members welcome. Enquiries to President Lion, David Dodsworth, Phone: 0400 446 395.

Woolgoolga Probus Club

Probus is a club for active retirees who are seeking friendship, fun and fellowship. Meetings are held the 4th Wednesday of the month at the Uniting Church Hall. 10.15am for a cuppa, meeting starts at 10.45am. Enquiries to Noreen on 0410 466 188 or Tony on 0438 989 924.

Woolgoolga Red Cross

Meetings second Tuesday of the month.

Venue: CWA Rooms 21 Beach Street - starts 2pm. Enquires: Judy Boyle 0408 354 422

Woolgoolga Red Cross Friendship Afternoon Tea

Last Friday of each month at 2pm.

Venue: Woolgoolga Seniors Centre.

6 Boundary Street. Entry: $2. Enquires: Kerry Chaffey on 0475 774 663

Woolgoolga RSL Sub-Branch

Meetings second Saturday of the month.

Venue: Woolgoolga Diggers Club. Time: Starting at 10.30am. Enquiries: WoolgoolgaSB@rslnsw.org.au

Bonville-Boambee VIEW Club

Hold their lunch meetings at Sawtell RSL Club on the second Thursday of each month. A social outing is held on the fourth Thursday. The next lunch meeting will be held on Thursday April 11, commencing at 11am for an 11.30am start. For further information please contact Gail, the VIEW Club President, on 0428 551 311.

40 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
community pages are proudly brought to you by the Woolgoolga Swim School
These

Woolgoolga Seniors Centre

6 Boundary Street, Woolgoolga.

6654 7311

Weekly Classes in House

Monday

9.30 to 12.00 Scrapbooking $5

Tuesday

10.30 to 11.15 Fitbits $5 Gentle muscle tone, stretching, Balance and well being)

11.30 to 12.25 Seat Beats $5 Dance moves while sitting

Wednesday

9.30 to 12.00 Craft $5

9.30 to 10.30 Strength Training $5

Members morning tea $2

Thursday

9 to 12 Wrap with love Blankets $5

10 to 11 Chair Fitness $10

12 to 4 Quilting $5

1 to 3 Table Tennis $5

4 to 6 Line dancing for beginners $5

Friday

9.30 to 12 Indoor bowls $5.50

1 to 3pm Art Class $5

1 to 4pm Rummikan Games

Red Cross last Friday of the Month

2pm

Saturday

9.30 to 12pm Line Dancing $8

Second Saturday of the Month

1 to 3pm Garden Club

Weekly bus trip to various places

All activities require membership $10. Please come along and join us, or enjoy a cup of tea and a chat, you are most welcome.

If you would like your community group listed here, please send to community@woopinews.com.au before the 15th of each month.

The Rotary Club of Woolgoolga would like to express its gratitude to the local businesses that generously donated to our Dutch Auction, which concluded on 29 February.

The winning bids went to Lynne Tapp, Jennifer Witcombe, Peter McIntosh, Rhonda Singh, and Kyle McIntosh. Congratulations to you all, and thank you for your support.

Our thanks go to Woolgoolga Body Works, XS Surf, The Hub Café, The Physio Movement (TPM) Woolgoolga, La Hacienda 101 and Greenside Surf.

All proceeds from our fundraising go directly to Rotary programs, making a difference in the community. Come and chat to us at the next Marine Rescue markets, where we will be set up once again to sell our high-quality clothing collection. Not only can we tell you all about Rotary here, nationally, and internationally, but you can also come away with some excellent bargains. We are very grateful to the people who have donated high-end fashion items.

If you are going to a wedding, have a special occasion coming up, or just want a special outfit, we have some very exclusive dresses available at much-reduced prices. We have Verge, Cue, Review, Anthea Crawford, Montique, and RSVP Bridal Formal Party, to name a few!

There are lots of tops, pants, dresses, shoes, and handbags to be found. Sustainable fashion for every taste. Revamp your look.

We have held over our monthly raffle until the April markets, so there are plenty of chances to buy tickets for our picnic-themed box of goodies. We thank those of you who have already purchased tickets. They will definitely be in the draw for the prize worth over $200. All enquiries can be made to rotarywoolgoolga@gmail.com

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 41
Lynne Tapp was the lucky recipient of an XS Surf board
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Woolgoolga Rotary supports local communitarians

Woolgoolga Rotary supports local communitarians

Guest speakers at the second and last Mondays of the month Rotary dinner meetings in February at the Woolgoolga C.ex Club (6pm for 6.30pm. Ends at 8pm) demonstrated the power of a few to impact many.

On Monday, 12 February, Troy Arvidson, a resident of the Coffs Harbour area and a builder who runs the FOOD FIX program, joined his partner, Stephanie Devereux, one of the deputy principals at the Sandy Beach Public School, to explain the Aardvark’s Breakfast Club at the school. This new program builds on Troy’s Food Fix Emergency Food Relief Service for people experiencing homelessness, families struggling to make ends meet, and anyone doing it tough. He and a group of volunteers dedicate every Friday to delivering food donated by local businesses, such as Coles at Moonee, Russell’s Meats, Fresco Fruit and Veg and Baker’s Delight, as hampers.

Troy and Stephanie have responded to parents’ information that they are sending their children to school without breakfast and with minimal lunch. This is the ‘frontline’ of Australia’s cost of living crisis. The Aardvark’s Breakfast Club assists families in ensuring that kids are fed before school, hopefully making their learning experience much easier, effective, and enjoyable.

If you would like to volunteer for Food Fix or the Aardvark’s Breakfast Club, contact Troy on 0407 716 224 or arvico@bigpond.com

The guest speaker on the last Monday of February was Bianca Saikale from Brazil, a member of the Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak. Bianca participated in the Rotary Youth Exchange program in 2017 at Coffs Harbour and later received the opportunity for a second exchange in Germany. Bianca’s presentation showed pictures from her time as an exchange student, and she spoke of her many memories and her love for Australia. She is fluent in German and English as a result of these exchanges.

Bianca is here to promote her jewellery business, Saikale – Elegance and kindness. She is passionate about environmental causes to preserve animal and marine habitats, such as the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, to impact the planet and its wildlife positively. Leveraging her Rotary experience, she is recruiting Australian and international Rotary Clubs to support her business, which supports local animal and marine life conservation. Each piece of Saikale jewellery honours an animal, and with every sale, a donation is made towards caring for the environment and wildlife.

For more information, go to saikale.com

Woolgoolga Rotary supports Coffs Coast Science and Engineering Challenge 2024

The University of Newcastle’s Science and Engineering Challenge is a national program that runs Challenge Days (for high school students) and Discovery Days (for primary school students) across every state and territory in Australia. The Coffs Coast Science and Engineering Challenge allows local school children to engage in a competition that fires up their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects that will prepare them for careers in significant Information Age professions.

The acronym STEM refers not only to stand-alone subjects but also to a way of thinking. STEM is about the skills required to learn science, technology, and mathematics and how engineering and design processes and principles are used to achieve an outcome. Initially, STEM students need to identify a problem. They then create possible solutions to that problem, which can be tested. The skills are inquiry-based approaches to teaching, learning and solving problems in the world.

In 2013, Professor Ian Chubb, Australia’s Chief Scientist, said: ‘STEM is everywhere. Our nourishment, our safety, our homes and neighbours, our relationships with family and friends, our health, our jobs, our leisure are all profoundly shaped by technological innovation and the discoveries of science.’

The Coffs Coast Competition will be conducted on Tuesday, 9 April, at the Wiigulga Sports Centre. Woolgoolga Rotary is providing volunteers who will train for two hours on 8 April. There is a dinner at the Seaview Tavern that evening. The dinner speaker will be Teale McElhinney, Senior Project Engineer on the Coffs Harbour Bypass.

For more details about joining Woolgoolga Rotary, please get in touch with President Rod Mackenzie at rotarywoolgoolga@gmail.com or 0419 728 888.

42 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
Bianca Saikale and President Rod Mackenzie

Community News

Woolgoolga Seniors Centre celebrate 20 years

Don’t miss the grand celebration of Woolgoolga Seniors Centre’s 20th anniversary on Friday, May 3. This event is exclusively for members and will be a day to remember. It begins at 10am with speeches commemorating the milestone, followed by the formal opening of the new outdoor function area by G. Singh MP. And that’s not all! All attendees will be treated to a free morning tea at 10.20am.

The Woolgoolga Seniors Centre is the result of an idea that was taken up by the Woolgoolga Rotary Club in 1999/2000. Charles Phipps as project coordinator and Keith Messer as volunteer project manager worked tirelessly to bring this project to completion, with the new Woolgoolga Seniors Centre officially opening on 3rd May 2004 by the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, Hon John Anderson.

An honour board in the Seniors Centre showcases the many organisations and individuals who contributed to the success of the project. The Woolgoolga Seniors Centre is indebted to Charles Phipps for his amazing work and to Keith Messer, who received the Paul Harris Fellows Award.

Over the years, the Woolgoolga Seniors Centre has become a thriving meeting place and an integral part of the community with daily activities and friendly get togethers. Woolgoolga would not be the same without it.

Woopi Singles Collective

The first Woopi Singles Collective get-together was a great success with some new friendships formed and members keen to get together again. One request was to organise a meet up for the younger crowd so there are now two singles events organised for April. Both will be held at Sam’s Place, Woopi Backpackers, 17 Market Street, Woolgoolga.

So, if you’re single and between the ages of 30-50 and looking for love and companionship you can join like minded singles on Saturday April 13 from 3 till 5pm. Help make the first event in this age group another success. RSVP with a text to Heidi - 0478 758 751. Please include your age and gender to give her an idea of numbers and balance of males to females.

If you’re Over 50 and single your next catch up is Saturday April 6 from 3 till 5pm. Put your ‘Glad Rags’ on and join them at their second event. The first was lots of fun however the balance of males to females still requires more males. So tell all your single male friends this is the place to be!

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 43
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Woolgoolga Performing Arts Studio

Aussie Allstars

Last year, eight talented Woolgoolga Performing Arts Studio (WPAS) students were nominated as ‘Aussie Allstar’ national finalists at the Junior Theatre Festival Australia. This recognition is a testament to the thriving talent we have right here in our community. These young stars have set their sights on an even bigger stage - Broadway in the United States. Selected from a pool of over 1,000 participants, six exceptional individuals, Cleo, Josie, Ebony, Shanaya, Ella and Makaylah are gearing up for an extraordinary adventure with Travel Gang’s Aussie Allstars—Musical Theatre Ultimate Adventure. Their journey will encompass immersive workshops and intensive performance rehearsals on Broadway, a captivating showcase at the Atlanta Junior Theatre Festival USA, and exclusive industry workshops at Disneyland in Los Angeles. This experience is not just about honing their skills but also about broadening their horizons and shaping their artistic futures.

As the Woopi All Stars embark on this unforgettable journey, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of our entire community. To help them on this journey, the students are contacting businesses in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga for sponsorship. Additionally, they have planned fundraising events such as a Christmas

raffle, a pre-Christmas musical bingo/ trivia night at Woopi Brewery, and a fundraising BBQ at Mitre 10 premises on May 18th. They also have a ‘Cans for Broadway’ appeal, encouraging locals to save recyclable cans for the Allstars to collect and cash in.

These students’ journey is not just about showcasing their talents on an international stage but also about representing the spirit and potential of Woolgoolga. Their journey to Broadway is evidence of their hard work, inspiring us all to reach for the stars.

Excellence in Performing Arts

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Stress and You

School holidays start soon.

And they’re met with mixed feelings.

For some kids, it’s the excitement of not having to go to school. For others, the dread of boredom and loneliness.

For parents and grandparents, I think it depends on how many kids there are and their age distribution. Will they all enjoy (or tolerate) the same activities, or do they require vastly different stimulation?

It can all be quite stressful, especially if the weather is not cooperative.

The most important thing is ensuring the primary child wrangler gets enough ‘ME time’. You have to keep your energy and emotions under control. Stay calm, no matter what!

Kids will bounce off your energy and emotions. If you feel yourself starting to get worked up, take a minute to step out. Take a few deep breaths and re-set so you can calmly address or diffuse any situation and stay in charge.

Most people, adults and kids, feel more at ease when they know what to expect. So, as the ‘boss’, manage everyone’s expectations, especially that no one will get everything they want!

Make a plan. A collective plan giving everyone involved an age-appropriate opportunity to contribute.

Get a calendar and start now, before the holidays begin.

Ask the kids for requests. Give the older kids a leadership

About DFM

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We have a strong team based here in Woolgoolga servicing clients locally as well as Australia wide.

We can assist you with your individual tax return, business tax return and self-managed superannuation fund annual tax compliance.

opportunity to work with you on the agenda.

Consider your boundaries or guidelines first:

Your work and home commitments that keep the household running. Time for you.

At home and out of home time.

Sleep and screen time limits.

Home contribution – cleaning their rooms, helping around the house, etc.

Behaviour expectations and consequences.

Your budget.

Etc, etc.

Have them agree to everything, in writing for the older ones. Decide as a team what gets scheduled. Each night, confirm the following day’s plans. Have contingency plans up your sleeve.

I know it’s easier said than done. It will take strength, patience and practice. However, if you don’t have a go, you’ll never know, and you might be pleasantly surprised. You have always got the agreements to fall back on. Don’t back down.

May the force be with you!

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 45
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Why is

it a bad

idea for businesses to barter or trade products or services?

Bartering or trading products or services may seem like a good idea at first, but there is a minefield of reasons why business owners should avoid bartering.

As there is not enough room to cover them all here, please refer to the blog on our website if you are interested in learning more.

When you barter or trade, as a business owner, you still need to record these transactions at their retail or market value, and the process of doing this becomes quite tedious without the bank transaction, invoice, or receipt. If no record of the transaction is kept, how do you later record them?

If not recorded, barter is bad for your bottom line and the overall health of your business, as vital information is missing from your financial reports which can be timeconsuming to fix and, if not fixed could lead to a benchmark audit with the ATO.

Here’s an example: Let’s say the refrigeration mechanic barters with the butcher. The mechanic’s income is taxable, but the meat is likely to be private in nature.

If this isn’t recorded in either business’s books, then the mechanic hasn’t declared income but has probably claimed the costs associated with doing the job.

The butcher may think, well, the meat is income, and the repair costs are deductible, so they just offset each other. No, not really; the butcher may miss out on claiming the GST on the repairs, presuming the mechanic is registered. The butcher will include the cost of the meat but has not declared the sale. If done on a larger scale, it will look like the butcher is not declaring his cash sales, as his meat costs are high in ratio to his sales, and this can lead to possible benchmark audits.

Liability Limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

Local legal firm providing advice and assistance in relation to Wills & Estate Planning, Probate Applications, Workers Compensation, Personal Injury and Insurance Claims, and General Legal Matters.

Contact KC Hilton on 0419 464 946 or khilton@wnblegal.com.au for further information.

Law Learnings

Death benefit claims

As a solicitor who works in both the estate and personal injury space, it surprises me how often families are not aware that there may be workers compensation entitlements available where a death results from a work-related injury.

While sometimes the circumstances of the injury are clear when there has been a significant accident at work that caused life-threatening injuries, there are some injuries that result in the death of a worker that are less obvious. A motor vehicle accident while travelling between worksites, a suicide following a workplace psychological injury, skin cancer developing after lengthy periods of working in an outdoor role, or an employee developing particular types of cancer as a result of exposure to chemicals over a length of time in the workplace are all examples. The issue of whether the death results from a workplace injury is a determination made based on available evidence, including information from the employer, any witnesses, medical records, police investigation reports and or a coroner’s report.

Under the workers compensation scheme that applies in NSW, there is a fixed lump sum amount payable for a workrelated death based on the date of death. The compensation amount is increased twice a year and, as of 1 April 2024, is $929,200. If liability for the death is accepted by the relevant insurer, there are also potentially weekly benefits payments available for dependent children up to the age of 16 or 21 for full time students. The insurer will also pay funeral expenses up to $15,000. The legal costs associated with making a death benefit claim under the workers compensation scheme, including the costs of obtaining medical or other evidence in support of the claim, are funded by the Independent Review Office for Approved Lawyers, with some limited exceptions.

If liability for the claim is accepted, the lump sum compensation payable will be paid to dependent family members or the legal personal representative (executor) of the estate. When dependents are minors the lump sum amount is paid to the NSW Trustee & Guardian to be managed on their behalf until they reach the age of 18 years. Where there is more than one dependent family member, the matter is frequently referred to the Personal Injury Commission for a determination as to the apportionment of the lump sum based on the level of dependency at the time of death. Each dependent must obtain their own legal advice on their potential entitlement to claim a portion of the lump sum amount.

It is devastating for families when work injuries result in the death of a loved one, and no amount of compensation will ever be enough to replace them. However, when workers’ compensation is available, it can make a real difference to families by giving them some financial security moving forward. If you believe a loved one’s death was caused by their employment, it is important to seek advice from a solicitor who practices specifically in workers compensation.

46 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024

Heart To Heart

A phone call I will never forget.

A distressed relative with devastating news.

My young cousin died that morning in a road accident. Many lives were impacted by his tragic death.

Devastating news is never welcome.

To the depths of our being, we hope it is not true. Denial possible, but out of the question in the face of reality. My cousin’s funeral confirmed his death. His ongoing absence drives home the reality.

The Christian message contains some devastating news. Potentially deniable but not fake news. News that the God who created us responds decisively to the problem of the human heart.

That he takes seriously the destructive consequences of human behaviour. That he brings judgement on all evil. By exclusion from his eternal kingdom and separation from all that is good. Here’s the irony of human response.

God’s judgement is exactly what rebellious human beings ask for. ‘Nick off God. I don’t want to have anything to do with you. Leave me alone to live my life however I want. Without being answerable to you.’

Yet, human beings demand justice in the face of injustice.

Expecting the punishment to fit the crime. Demanding perpetrators held accountable. Punished for the often irreparable damage they do to others or the environment. Lack of justice breeds human anger, cynicism, and vocal outrage.

In light of this, it is puzzling the teaching of the Bible that God judges the world meets with human anger and denial.

Why are people so outraged when Christians speak of God judging the world? Especially in light of God’s perfect love and justice.

Could there be a blindness to the reality that ‘the world’ includes us?

Could it be our heart problem summed up by the desire to live independently of God, failure to take responsibility for the consequences of independent living?

Would you flag down an oncoming vehicle to warn the driver the bridge around the corner has been washed away?

Do you take notice of the warning signs ‘Beware of sharks’ ‘Crocodiles swim here too’?

Do you warn your children of ‘stranger danger’, stove hotplates, oncoming traffic?

Credible warnings are an act of love. God’s warning of impending judgement a profound act of love. A warning consistently heard throughout the Bible. God takes no pleasure in judgement. His desire: people heed the warning, turn away from rebellion and receive the mercy of God. Message of judgement least popular part of the Christian message. Tough but necessary part of the Christian story. Not the end of the story.

The story continues with the supreme act of love, which is God’s rescue plan. The story of Easter. Central character: Jesus Christ. Stay tuned.

David Hanger (hangeron56@gmail.com)

Northern Beaches Anglicans

The Fellowship of First Fleeters North Coast Chapter extend an invitation to interested people of the First Fleet and their Descendants or family research enthusiasts in attending our Bi Monthly Meetings.

Our next meeting is being held on Sunday 7th April 10.30am at the residence of Joe and Margaret Bass 95 Ferretts Road, Nana Glen.

Morning tea, Tea and Coffee supplied by Chapter. Members BYO lunch.

WE WILL HAVE A GUEST SPEAKER

Ross Barry, presenting a story about his First Fleet Ancestor – John Ryan/Bryant who arrived on the ‘Friendship’ Cost$5 per person.

Our Chapter area ranges from Nambucca Valley to Clarence Valley Districts.

For more information please contact:

Robyn Condliffe, Research Officer on 0420 923 140 or Pat Davis, President/Publicity Officer 0402 022 008 patriciadavis4@bigpond.com

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 47
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What’s on at the

Are you looking for the perfect venue to make your next event unforgettable? Look no further! City of Coffs Harbour’s Wiigulga Multipurpose Centre offers flexible spaces to fit a variety of needs; whether you’re planning a corporate meeting, workshop, seminar, family celebration or a special gathering. All spaces have AV included, and there’s even an option to book catering, so all you need to do is show up.

Contact the team at wiigulga@chcc.nsw.gov.au to book today.

Here’s the daily ‘What’s Happening’ for activities at Wiigulga in April

Monday

6am Mat pilates

8.45am Vinyasa yoga

10am Mat pilates

4.30pm Coffs Harbour Basketball – representative training

6pm Mat pilates

6pm Social basketball

7pm Social pickleball – open session

Tuesday

8.30am Bishop Druitt College - Playgroup

9am Zumba with Debbie Leaney

9.30am Walking basketball

9.30am Social pickleball – open session

4pm Coffs Coast Physie & Dance

4pm Australian Futsal – Futsal Academy

5.45pm Zumba with Debbie Leaney

6pm Coffs Harbour Basketball – representative training

10am Mat pilates

3.15pm Australian Futsal – Little Feet Program (3 – 5 years)

4pm Australian Futsal – Futsal School (5 – 12 years)

4pm Coffs City Physie

4.30pm Coffs Harbour Basketball – representative training

6pm Casual futsal – open session

6pm Y in yoga

Thursday

10.30am Ukulele group

4.30pm Coffs Harbour Basketball – representative training

Friday

6am Mat pilates

10am Mat pilates

5.30pm Social pickleball - open session

Also coming up in March:

6 April Charity Bounce Basketball

7 April NCAS Netball Program

8/9 April Rotary Club Science & Engineering Challenge

12 April First Responder Fundamentals Program (FRF)

23 April Suicide Prevention Workshop

Sports Fields

Tues and Thurs Northern Beaches Blues AFL training

Wednesdays Northern Beaches Blues Junior AFL training

17 April AFL Come and Try Inclusion Day

To contact the venue team for booking enquiries, or to get in touch with one of the activities listed above, call 02 6648 4950 or email wiigulga@chcc.nsw.gov.au

Like our Facebook and Instagram pages to keep up to date on all the upcoming programs and activities.

Wednesday

6am Mat pilates

8.45am Vinyasa yoga

48 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
www.pilatesyogamaryann.com Booking via website Mat Pilates Vinyasa Yoga Yin Yoga
Woopi local Jenah celebrated her recent baby shower in the Sangeet Rooms at Wiigulga. We can’t wait to meet the little one when he arrives!

Gardening with Frank

Autumn: A Gardener’s New Beginning!

Hey there, garden gang! It’s Frank, back again to dive into the delightful season of Autumn in our gorgeous region. How good is everything when the air starts to cool down, and we enjoy a little less humidity and the glorious days of Autumn!

This season is all about prepping and planting for the cooler months ahead. It’s the perfect time to get your soil all nice and enriched – think of it as feeding your garden a hearty meal before its winter nap. With a bit of compost and manure, your garden will thank you with blooms and harvests a plenty.

Now, let’s talk plants. Autumn is prime time for planting leafy greens like spinach, kale, and lettuce. They’re not just easy to grow; they’re like the gift that keeps on giving. Plus, popping in some broad beans and garlic means you’ll have

something to look forward to in the coming months.

And for my flower enthusiasts, it’s your cue to get those bulbs in the ground. Daffodils, tulips, and irises planted now will make your garden a spectacle of colour come spring.

Don’t forget to mulch! It keeps the moisture in, the weeds out, and gives your garden that neat, tidy look we all love. So, whip out those gardening gloves, and let’s make the most of Autumn. Whether you’re a green thumb or just starting, there’s joy in every seed planted. Remember, in the garden of life, everything’s looking good!

Check out our website at www.franksgardenbeds.com and fill in our enquiry form, or see us on Facebook at Franks Garden Beds.

Embracing Sustainable Living

A Journey Back to Basics

Hello, I’m Kirsty. With over twelve years in sustainability and environmental education, I’ve seen the urgent need to protect our planet. Now, I’m excited to bring focus back to basics on the stunning shores of the Coffs Coast. In our fast-paced world, where convenience often takes precedence over sustainability, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the natural rhythms of our land. Yet, as Aussies, we are blessed with a unique environment rich in biodiversity and beauty, making it more imperative than ever to embrace sustainable living practices.

This month, let’s take a step back and revisit the basics of sustainable living, tailored to our Australian context. From the red deserts of the Outback to the lush rainforests of the coast, each corner of our vast continent presents its own opportunities and challenges for living in harmony with nature. First and foremost, let’s talk about water. As a country prone to droughts

and water scarcity, conserving this precious resource is paramount. Simple habits like fixing leaky taps, installing water-saving devices, and collecting rainwater for household use can significantly reduce our water footprint.

Next, let’s address energy consumption. Australia’s abundant sunshine makes it an ideal location for harnessing solar power. Consider installing solar panels on your roof to generate clean, renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, adopting energy-efficient appliances and practices, such as turning off lights when not in use and using natural ventilation instead of air conditioning, can further lighten our environmental impact.

When it comes to waste, Australians generate a staggering amount of rubbish each year. Embracing the three Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle – is key to minimising our waste footprint. Start by avoiding single-use plastics, opting for reusable alternatives, and composting

organic waste to nourish your garden.

Finally, let’s not forget about supporting local and sustainable businesses. Whether it’s choosing locally grown produce at the farmers’ market or investing in eco-friendly products and services, our purchasing decisions have the power to drive positive change and support our economy.

As Australians, we have a responsibility to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity that make our country so special. By returning to the basics of sustainable living – conserving water, reducing energy consumption, minimising waste, and supporting local initiatives – we can ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and embark on this journey back to basics in sustainable living.

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 – 49
50 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 Haircuts at Home Located In Woolgoolga Womens $20 - Restyle $25 Mens $20 Colours Available By Request Phone Elesha 0413 771 534 Local Trades and Services Guide PIGGOTT EXCAVATIONS TIGHT ACCESS SPECIALISTS ABN 50 921 919 893 1.7t excavator & tipper No job too big or small... “Piggott can dig it!” Contact Jayke 0432 010 862 piggottexcavations@gmail.com EXCAVATION CLEANING 0407 429 679 info@woolgoolgacleaning.com www.woolgoolgacleaning.com ABN: 24 546 821 802 Servicing Coffs Harbour to Corindi • Residential Home Cleaning Specialist • Regular Weekly, Fortnightly or One-off Cleans available • Fully Insured and Police Checked • All product and equipment supplied BUILDERS A & G MALLETT SPECIALIST BUILDERS ANDREW GRAEME 0408 736 946 0408 666 589 Lic. No. 92095C Lic. No. 19809C • Patio Awnings • Gable Roofs • Timber Decks • Glass Rooms • Screened Rooms • Renovations • Extensions 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE – FREE QUOTES BATHROOM & KITCHEN Free Measure and Quote - Bathrooms, Kitchens and Laundries Now offering renovations and decks • Licence No 347648c Call Shane 0413 644 740 Email: woopibathandkitch@gmail.com MECHANIC Lic. No. MVRL 55519 RTA AU47110 HAIRDRESSING ELECTRICAL Local Friendly Electrician Servicing Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches Domestic - Commercial - Industrial – Level 2 ASP NATHAN WYATT 0402 130 412 CARPENTRY Decks, pergolas and other small-scale carpentry Call Michael for a quote 0425 828 246 admin@mastercutcarpentry.com.au PLUMBING All plumbing services Red Rock to Scotts Head jettyplumbing@gmail.com jettyplumbing.com.au 0459 339 205 PLUMBING Michael 0400 772 474 Plumbing • Blocked Drains • Roofing • Gasfitting REMEDIAL MASSAGE REMEDIAL MASSAGE Safety Beach Christine Taylor BTSM Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage 0402 255 684 (By appointment only) PLUMBING W o o l g o o l g a a n d N o r t h e r n B e a c h e s A l l a s p e c t s o f p l u m b i n g 2 4 h o u r m a i n t e n a n c e a n d b l o c k e d d r a i n s 0424 876 796 newlevelplumbing@gmail.com You can advertise in Woopi News - Local Trades and Services Guide for just $65. Phone: 0410 052 601 • Email: lisa@woopinews.com.au Tailored Movements 100% Mobile Exercise Physiology Improve daily living for NDIS || DVA || Home-Care Packages Servicing Mid North Coast NSW ● Increase strength + balance ● Reduce risk of falls ● Decrease pain for arthritis Contact Information Phone 0466 646 831 Email taylor@tailoredmovements.com Website www.tailoredmovements.com Tailored Movements 100% Mobile Exercise Physiology Improve daily living for NDIS || DVA || Home-Care Packages Servicing Mid North Coast NSW ● Increase strength + balance ● Reduce risk of falls ● Decrease pain for arthritis Contact Information Phone 0466 646 831 Email taylor@tailoredmovements.com Website www.tailoredmovements.com BUSINESS CARDS 1000 Business Cards - $150 (360gsm, double sided, Gloss or Matt laminate) Design Service available (Flyers & brochures, cards, stationery, Presentation folders, Books, Calendars - all printing needs) email for a quotation BizCards@woopinews.com.au
WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024 –SEND YOUR PESTS PACKING COUNTRY TO COAST PEST CONTROL DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Termite Management – Termite Inspections Cockroaches Spiders Wasps Silverfish Fleas Rodents Free Quotes Thermal Imaging Using the LATEST and SAFEST Products Available PENSIONER DISCOUNTS SERVICING ALL AREAS FROM RED ROCK NAMBUCCATO ✆ 6658 2920 – 0407 416 641 PC Reg No:1093 – Lic No:559 LOCAL FAMILY RUN BUSINESS OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Woolgoolga Swim School turns 10

The Woolgoolga Swim School started trading in April 2014, opening with virtually no clients, apart from a few women doing self-directed exercises in the pool in the middle of the day, a few days per week.

We also started getting enquiries from people in Corindi who had previously had children having lessons here when it was known as Country Club. Aleisha and Zane Quay, as well as Emily and Jasmyn Hoppe, were some of our first students and gradually the numbers grew as these families encouraged other families to bring their children here.

As Luke’s reputation as a teacher became more widely spread, our catchment area of students also grew, and we now have students coming from Moonee, Emerald Beach, Sandy Beach, Woolgoolga and the northern regions. With the growth in student numbers, Luke found that he needed more teachers.

Our first employee was Jake Maric from Woolgoolga High School, who commenced work when he was in

year ten and continued until going to University in 2023. Since then, we have employed two female teachers, one working during the morning sessions and the other doing three after-school sessions and Saturday mornings. This year, we will be starting a trainee to work two after-school sessions under the mentorship of Luke, with the aim of him teaching alone when he turns 16 next year.

Over the ten years of trading, we have seen many changes in the facility, with renovations taking place within the buildings and to the pools. The beautiful murals around the learn-toswim pool have captivated the children, as have two street art surfboards. The changerooms and front office have also undergone renovation, making them comfortable and user-friendly.

Thank you to all our clients, past and present, for your patronage. We look forward to continuing to be a worthy presence in the community for many years.

THEN and NOW shots of Woolgoolga Swim School

Woolgoolga SLSC

It’s Gold!

Masters female double Ski Gold Medal for Karen Dallas and Belinda Schofield at the recent SLSNSW Masters State championships. The ladies also achieved a 5th and a 6th place in the rescue tube race and Beach Flags.

Woolgoolga Surf Life Saving Club had a large contingent of young, old and in between aged competitors at the recent State Championships.

Woolgoolga Real Estate Cheryl Midavaine Holiday Accommodation Property Rentals Property Sales Talk to your local specialist to help you with all facets of Real Estate: Call: 6654 2333 www.woolgoolgarealestate.com.au 62 Beach Street, Woolgoolga

C.ex Woolgoolga Bowling Club

March has been a busy and great month at Woolgoolga Bowling Club.

Pennants have a break until after the Easter weekend, but I am sure all three grades are looking forward to this break.

Champion of the Mountain handicap singles is an in-house, very popular competition run every year.

All up, we had 17 ladies and men competing to be on the top as many times as possible.

This year, it just happened that we had two players

who reached the top on six occasions: Ray Kaufmann and Greg McInerney.

To determine the winner, we had a playoff, and the Champion of the Mountain was Greg McInerney.

The club has also played The Open Gender Triples over the last two Sundays. They were great matches played in good spirits throughout the competition. This concluded on March 10. The winners were M Hines (Lead), M Stewart (2nd), and Shayne Dodd (Skip). Runners up R Gurber (Lead), L Kaufmann (2nd), R Kaufmann (Skip). Here is the report on some of the regular social bowls, Tuesday walking pairs (2.2.2.2) 20/2/24 I Cork, Tony (D) M Brookes, M Hodge. G Lane, B Merchant (D) M Hopes, S Barnard. R Ryan, G Cunningham (D) L Walsh, L Walsh. J Gibbons, D Mason (D) C Davis, G McInerney. A Wroe, R Gurber (D) G Forbes, I Bridge. M Lampert, C Latham (D) W Prosser, T Allen. D Barnard, J Hurrell (D) J Riemann, C Boyden. K Stirling, S Dodd (D) Jim, H Schultz.

Due to the odd numbers, W Gavenlock, Fred C, (D) R

Benneii Bruce, Brad, and P Wroe played a three-bowl triple game.

Friday, March 2024 Hodge, Brian, (D) Brad, Mick. M Hopes, R Ryan (D) J Hurrell, H Katala. Percy, Ken C (D) N Haines, Jen H. M Brookes, T Allen (D) Fred C, B Merchant. H Schultz, R Bennell (D) A Wroe, R Shaw. Garry, Jeff (D) Glen, Ian.

Reminder: Twilight bowls are still on every Thursday night from 6 to about 9. They are open to everyone, and all equipment is supplied. Great music to bowl to, raffles, and a snack conclude the great night. So, meet new people and have a game. All we ask is that you wear flat shoes. For enquiries, contact Meryl Brookes on 0411 278 298.

54 – WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS – ISSUE 56 – APRIL 2024
Champion of the Mountain 2024 was Greg McInerney Open Gender Triples Champions 2024 Mick Stewart, Shayne Doddand Mick Hines

Woolgoolga Athletics Club

Woolgoolga athletes competed at the recent NSW State Combined event at the Hunter Sports Centre - a combined event is similar to a Heptathlon, where athletes compete in seven specified events across two days. Woolgoolga Athletics Club had five athletes competing at this event.

Under 15 athletes, Keller Happ and Amber Hundal, dominated in their events, both finishing 4th overall. Both athletes will move on to compete at State Athletics. Sunnie Kassulke had plenty of competitors in her age group and managed to finish 10th in the U9 girls. Austin Hundal placed 29th and Baylen Mamone 37th also out of a huge field of U11 boys.

Our employees have years of experience and leadership skills, we can offer a range of plant hire, site supervisor, project management and labour hire solutions for your projects.

Senior athletes, Dave Kennedy and Bruce Meder, both recently competed at the NSW Master Championships and absolutely smashed it. Dave won Gold in the Long Jump, Triple Jump, Hugh Jump, Javelin, 200m, 80m Hurdles and Silver in the 60m. Bruce took Gold in the 800m, 1500m and Silver in 2000m Steeple Chase. Both men competing in the 70-74 age group.

You can learn more about Woolgoolga Athletics via www.woolgoolgaathletics.com.au

HARVEY EXCAVATIONS PTY LTD

Lee Harvey: 0487 050 475

Office: 0467 549 069

Email: info@harveyex.com.au

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• Employees have confined space ticket, up to date first aid and appropriate machine tickets

• Full insurance and public liability.

30 Hawke Dr, Woolgoolga PO Box 800, Woolgoolga

NSW 2456

WOOPI NEWS – WOOLGOOLGA AND SURROUNDING AREAS ISSUE 56
Keller Happ Amber Hundle Dave Kennedy and Bruce Meder
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