Greater Port Macquarie Focus - i202

Happy New Year! Fresh mindset, fresh ideas and a positive outlook for the year ahead. That is what we try to bring into the new year and for lots of us new year goals end up coming to a halt by February. I think if we have learnt anything from the past three years it is that we don’t know what lies ahead and we don’t have control of anything. Make sure the memories you are making are happy ones. Spend as much time with family and friends as possible. Be kind, be patient and be thankful.

On the cover:It’s SHOWTIME. Our awesome cover this month is the ultimate magic spectacular

SHOWMEN that is coming to the Glasshouse this January. Be sure that you grab your tickets for this one these holidays and take the whole family along. The kids won’t be bored watching this. Inside this edition:Headspace Port Macquarie are celebrating 10 years. Congratulations. We talk to Julie Jamieson who has been there since almost the beginnning. Read Julie’s interview on page 88.

HSC results are back and we have some very clever young adults living in our area. Congratulations to our 2022 St Joseph’s Regional Collegee Dux, Alvin Benny who recieved an ATAR of 98.10 and Will McCoubrie who was awarded first place in

contacts.

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS 2/28 Fernhill Road, Port Macquarie

POSTAL PO Box 690, Port Macquarie

PHONE 02 6584 7433 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

EDITION COORDINATOR & ADVERTISING SALES Annette Wannell annette@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Baker sarahmay@focusmag.com.au

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

the state for HSC Design and Technology. Congratualtions to all students from all our schools who finished the HSC and all the best for what lies ahead.

PMQ EATS will bring us their very first Food Truck festival and it’s sure to be a favourite with locals and holiday makers. It’s events like this that keep our little town alive and these events need support. A huge thank you to those businesses who get behind all our events with no questions asked. It’s business and people like you who help make our area what it is.

Enjoy your summer holidays. If you are visting us we hope you enjoy what our amazing region has to offer and we will see you around.

ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY Gavin Moroney gavin@focusmag.com.au

CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Steve Foye steve@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Welcome to the JANUARY 2023 ISSUE of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

Photography: Courtesy of Port Macquarie / Matt Cramer

Ellen Crepaz and husband Peter started the Facebook group PMQ EaTs to help support local businesses during COVID, and with her knowledge in the industry the page took off.

Willow Rissel started her business when she was just 19 and has grown it into a successful & innovative business through hard work, dedication and investing in education & training.

Recently retired St Columba Anglican School’s Science and Sustainability Teacher AnnKathrin Kiehn who has been named the 2022 Sustainable Schools NSW Teacher of the Year.

PMQ

JANUARY 23

MOONLIGHT MOVIES

6

Bring your picnic blanket and favourite snacks for a fun family friendly event. The film is the family favourite - Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. This program is supported by the NSW 2022 Storm and Flood Recovery Package. When 6 January Film Showing from 7:30pm. Where 7 Hill Street, Comboyne More info 02 6581 8251

YUN YI BARRAGAY TOUR

14 13

Your NPWS Aboriginal Guide will invite you to celebrate the wisdom of Birpai culture. You’ll hear about how Aboriginal people lived in harmony with their environment. Discover how Aboriginal people utilised rainforest resources and their deep cultural knowledge to survive and prosper here for millennia.

When Friday 13th (12:00am - 11:59pm) Where 159 Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie

THE UMBILICAL BROTHERS

The Umbilicals take the energy of live performance and the spectacle of cinema and smashes them together into a new show performed simultaneously on stage and on the big screen. When Saturday, 14 January 2023 | 08:00 PM - 09:20 PM Where Glasshouse

HASTINGS SUMMER WAVES

Brought to you by Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, Hastings Summer Waves is bringing you Wednesday Night Markets during Jan! Bring your family and your rugs down to Town Beach to enjoy some of the local foods and arts of Port Macquarie Where Town Beach 5-9pm Wednesdays in Jan More info hastingssummerwaves.com.au

BREWS + BURGERS TRAIL

Visit some of the East Coast’s best brewers, then pair with some next-level burgers and you’ve got a great day out. Read on, friends! Overall entertaining day out. Highlights: The Burger Rebellion, Black Duck Brewery, Wicked Elf Beer, The Other Chef, Beechwood Café & Bar, Beechwood Hotel. When Saturday 21st January 2023 11 AM – 7:30 PM More info portbus.com.au

CREATIVE SOULS

21 26 18

A free community group sponsored by hosts Sunset Framing & Gallery! Each month there is a creative prompt, if it inspires some creativity guests are invited to bring it along or bring something on the night to use as inspiration. All are welcome, sponsors Sunset Framing & Gallery provide tea and coffee, if you would like anything else bring it along and a plate of nibbles to share if you wish. Where 2/25 Central Rd, Port Macquarie Sunset Gallery

When Thursday 26th (5:30pm - 7:30pm) More info 6583 4100

THE ULTIMATE MAGIC SPECTACULAR!

Hi Mike and Christopher.

It is such a pleasure to speak with you both. I know there are already so many excited Port Macquarie locals who cannot wait to see you perform this incredible new show set to be a visual feast for the eyes. Firstly, how has your year been? What have you been up to? I know you must be relieved to be performing live again after a couple of years of COVID restrictions?

Mike and I were touring America when the pandemic hit before being rushed home. During the pandemic, when we had the time and took the opportunity to really stop and just dream about what the future might hold for us, well, that’s when “SHOWMEN” was born.

We started touring SHOWMEN in April of this year, and it has been amazing to give audiences a live spectacle that they can’t witness anywhere else.

SHOWMEN comprises a supergroup

of conjurers, tricksters, comedians, illusionists, and daredevils in a familyfriendly, jaw-dropping spectacle of live magic, illusions and stunts. Tell us a little about what we can expect to see from viewing a performance?

We have been described by critics as being “The Avengers of magic”. We are a supergroup. This isn’t just a magic show, it’s a spectacle of magic, circus and stunts –audiences don’t get a moment to exhale. It really is very exciting to see!

The country and the world has certainly been in turmoil throughout COVID and I think now it is a perfect opportunity to give people live theatre that inspires and offers hope and optimism for the future. What do you hope an audience will take

Home grown entertainers team

new magic spectacular following their Las Vegas residency and USA tour.

FOCUS caught up with Showmen creators Mike Tyler and Christopher Wayne ahead of their exciting 2023 tour.

away after seeing the incredible skillset of each performer live on stage?

The only thing we want our audiences to take away from SHOWMEN is magical memories. As cheesy as that sounds, after the last few years, more than ever there is nothing quite as special as getting together with the people in your life and sharing incredible experiences. We want people to leave a performance feeling refreshed and positive. That’s certainly what we love about live theatre, and that’s what we offer in SHOWMEN.

‘We have no message for you, We have no food for thought, We just want to astound and entertain you.’ Continues over...

We are a supergroup. This isn’t just a magic show, it’s a spectacle of magic, circus and stunts – audiences don’t get a moment to exhale.

up for a brand

Now our focus is to create Aussie entertainment, for Aussie audiences, using the best performers this country has to offer.

Take us through each cast member and what they bring to the line-up?

We wanted SHOWMEN to be a “buffet of entertainment” for the entire audience to feast on. Every performer in SHOWMEN has their own unique set of skills.

Josh Norbido is a magician and Rubik’s Cube genius. He is the only magician on the planet who combines live magic with hip hop and beat boxing at the same time.

Apollo Jackson won Sophie Monk’s (and Australia’s) heart on “The Bachelorette” with his magic and his charm. His job in SHOWMEN is to showcase the intimate side of magic.

Joel Fenton “The Cirque Stuntman” is one of the best circus performers on the planet. He juggles chainsaws, climbs inside giant weather balloons, and keeps the show alive with the most hilarious and amazing circus stunts you have ever seen.

Mike Tyler is the mind reader in the show. He is funny, suave, and knows what you are thinking. That’s a dangerous combination.

Christopher Wayne (me, hi). I’m the MC. I

come from a background as a comedy magician, and that’s what I bring to this show. Prepare to laugh, a lot!

Many people will be familiar with the two of you, being known for many years as ‘The Naked Magicians,’ Australia’s biggest ever magic export. How is it different performing now with a larger cast and do you think ‘The Naked Magicians’ will ever make a come back in the future?

I (Christopher) have loved magic since I was a kid. It is the stereotype that my Grandpa taught me my first tricks, but it changed my life.

every astounding minute of SHOWMEN, all we thought about was the audience experience and the perspective of the viewer. We wanted to create theatre that was unlike anything people had seen in live theatre before.

Be it The Naked Magicians, or SHOWMEN, or behind the scenes - I don’t mind where I am as long as I get to make shows that entertain audiences.

The Naked Magicians certainly changed our lives. It is very different to SHOWMEN though. SHOWMEN is very much a family experience, where The Naked Magicians is… well… you know.

Through The Naked Magicians, we have learned all of our best lessons not just as performers, but as producers too. If I’m to be honest, when we wrote The Naked Magicians we were young guys that wanted to make something for us. When creating

You have now returned to your home towns in Queensland following your Las Vegas residency and touring the world to over 300 cities since 2015. Tell us about some of your highlights living and working abroad?

We really have performed in a ridiculous amount of places, so when I tell you that there is no place as gorgeous as Queensland, I am qualified to mean it! Touring the world was one of the most incredible experiences

ever.

There are literally too many stories to name, but I think becoming the first Australian magic show to headline the Vegas strip is surely one of the most remarkable experiences we will ever have.

Have you both always been obsessed with magic, illusion and physical theatre and how did you meet and commence in the industry?

I (Christopher) have loved magic since I was a kid. It is the stereotype that my Grandpa taught me my first tricks, but it changed my life. I always meet people who have similar memories, it must be a “Grandpa thing”.

Mike and I met at a show he was performing at, and became best friends almost instantly.

Together we created The Naked Magicians, and now we are repeating history together with SHOWMEN.

As corny as it seems, I actually believe that the legitimate joy of our friendship is channeled into our shows, which makes every performance even more rewarding for both us and our audience. The fun we have on stage is real, always.

Can you tell us about some major influences in your lives and why you draw inspiration from them?

Mike and myself had a year-long residency at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Through that time, we got to spend time and befriend the biggest and most inspiring entertainers on the strip.

Guys like Penn & Teller as well as David Copperfield have always been great inspirations in not just how to perform, but how to make a show a memorable experience for the entire audience.

Can you share a secret about yourselves that not many people would know?

Magicians have two rules.

1. Never reveal everything you know… 2. xxxx

Aside from the SHOWMEN’S tour throughout early 2023, what is on the horizon for you both career-wise?

Mike and I have had an amazing career as magicians with our productions taking us across the world. Now, our focus is to create Aussie entertainment, for Aussie audiences, using the best performers this country has to offer.

For people wanting to find out more about SHOWMEN, book their tickets or connect with you online, how can they best get in touch?

All of the information (including some really cool videos from the show) can be found at www.officialshowmen.com

Interview: Sarah Baker.

Showmen will perform on Thursday 19th Jan at the MEC, Taree and Friday 20th Jan at the Glasshouse theatre, Port Macquarie. Tickets via www.officialshowmen.com

As corny as it seems, I actually believe that the legitimate joy of our friendship is channeled into our shows, which makes every performance even more rewarding for both us and our audience. The fun we have on stage is real, always.

MEG + ME BOUTIQUE + ESPRESSO

For an experience like no other in town, drop in to Meg + Me. Whether it’s the fashion, the homewares or the captivating scent of coffee that’s lured you in, either way, make sure you set aside some time to indulge yourself in their captivating corner of town

Phone 6583 7773 Open Monday - Sunday 12 and 13/6-14

Clarence St Port Macquarie

HELICOPTER FLIGHTS & TOURS

Port Macquarie Helicopters has a scenic helicopter flight guaranteed to be a once in a lifetime experience. Experience majestic views of the famous Mid North Coast beaches extending from Port Macquarie's picturesque Port Macquarie coastline.

Phone 0487 771 200 portmacquariehelicopters.com.au

FORESHORE MARKETS

Unique handmade arts and crafts highlight the event with an eclectic mix of other stalls, from gourmet foods, locally grown produce, flowers, vintage clothing to handmade jewellery and clothing. facebook.com/marketplaceeventspmq

URBAN GRAIN BAKERY

Port Macquarie's best artisan bread and pastries. Everything is made by hand with the best possible ingredients that we can find. Come and visit us these holidays and enjoy some quiet time with a coffee and one of our amazing treats. Phone 0423 545 258 Open Tuesday – Saturday 7am – 1.30pm Shop 17, Peachtree Walk Arcade, Hay Street, Port Macquarie

PORT ADVENTURE CRUISES

Take in the beautiful Hastings River – from the glorious sunsets to our tranquil rural landscapes and abundant wildlife. Cruise the wonderful Hastings River aboard the Port Adventure anytime of the day or night. Relax, unwind and be entertained. Phone 0434 393 199 Town Wharf (end of Clarance Street, Port Macquarie)

PORT MEDICAL AESTHETICS CLINIC

Find confidence in your natural look, with cosmetic and aesthetic treatments at our award-winning Port Macquarie clinic. Specialising in mature and sun damaged skin. Ask us about our Summer Facial offer. Phone 0421 253 025 portmedicalaestheticsclinic.com.au 5/12 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie

ASSEF'S

Assef’s is a family-owned clothing store for women and men. We stock the best Australian and international brands (in all sizes), including RM Williams, Country Road, Mimco, Industrie, Tommy Hilfiger, Gant, Levi’s, Thomas Cook, Ariat, Wrangler, Goondiwindi Cotton and Running Bear. 49 Horton Street Port Macquarie, or assefs.com.au.

THE DEPARTMENT STORE

Iconic shopping destination in Wauchope CBD offering hand-picked treasures, designer labels and unique finds. Fashion, shoes, bags, homewares, kitchenware and gifts. Phone 6588 8950 Open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday and 9am-1pm Saturdays. 22 High Street, Wauchope.

VIBE COFFEE HOUSE

Located in the beautiful town of Wauchope Vibe Coffee House is the prefect place to stop for breakfast, lunch and catch up with family and friends this Summer. Indoor and outdoor dining in a quiet little garden where you won't be disappointed. Phone 6585 2807 Check us out on socials vibe_coffee_house Shop 3/36 High Street, Wauchope

PORT MACQUARIE DISTILLERY

A new experience has arrived in Port Macquarie. PMQ Distillery now open for tastings and sales. If you’re in the midst of a deep obsession with all things gin and vodka, then a PMQD visit is a must. Let the fun be gin at PMQ Distillery Phone 5507 9357 Open Friday 4pm - 8pm Saturday 3pm - 8pm 24/35 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie

eats

Hi Ellen. You have had quite an extensive career in the hospitality industry, could you share a bit of your background with us?

I have always had a love of food from a young age. I remember learning from my Yia how to make Greek Food and I grew up in Western Sydney so I was exposed to lots of culture rich foods. My career in food started when I was 20 and I started my first job working for Ali Baba Kebabs Head Office in Sydney. I worked for Ali Baba head Office for nearly 10 years

and in that time I was part of the growth of QKS industry (Quick Service Restaurants).

I worked alongside some major chains in research and development and procurement like Sumo Salad as well.

But my love for good food doesn't stop at me eating it, but as a home chef in the kitchen too! I was lucky enough to have my dream of being on reality TV come true in 2013 when

I competed as a contestant on “Australia's Come Dine with Me”. It was an amazing experience that kickstarted my dessert business. We ran the business until we moved to Port.

You started PMQ EaTs, can you tell us about how that idea came about and what it’s all about?

The idea came about when I noticed that a lot of businesses were struggling during lock down. I wanted to do something to help, so I started this group on Facebook. We have a total following of over 15,000 people, and we're constantly growing and expanding our offerings to our community and to small businesses as well. Port Macquarie EaTs is a group for people that love to support local businesses in the hospitality and tourism industry. We are helping to promote new places, food reviews, and what is happening. It is one of the quickest growing Facebook groups in the region.

You moved to Port Macquarie in 2015 and you’ve been very supportive of local venues and food outlets, what do you

Ellen Crepaz and her husband Peter put together the Facebook group PMQ EaTs to help support local businesses during COVID, and with Ellen’s extensive knowledge and background in food and hospitality the page took off. And now the Eats Festival is kicking

PORT MACQUARIE

love about what we have on offer here in Port?

Having experienced the beauty of Port Macquarie for our family holidays since I was just three years old, it has without a doubt been my city escape over the years and nabbed my heart. When entering the town during our family holidays there were two thoughts that always crossed my mind, 'Is the lake open for me to take my boogie board?' and 'Is Pancake Place open?'.

Choosing to move here in 2015 was one of the best decisions we made. We now have upmarket bars, family-friendly pubs, delectable restaurants and cafes along with

some truly spectacular food trucks - our town is full of little gems. Every day feels like an adventure as I explore what our little region has to offer and I never cease to be impressed by all we have available at our fingertips here in Port Macquarie.

The Eats Festival kicks off this month for the first time ever, can you tell us about the concept behind this festival and why you wanted to get it happening?

We created it with the aim of celebrating and showcasing the vibrant local culture of Port Macquarie.

With delicious smells wafting down from food trucks and mouth-watering dishes being cooked up right before their eyes, it's easy to see why street food has been such a massive hit here in the community. Catering to that craving for community connection, the Eats Festival is an opportunity to come together to enjoy fantastic meals without having to worry about breaking your budget. I wanted to do this so I could bring people together to have a

relaxing time out and enjoy street food, fresh food and markets from our wonderful and very popular Foreshore Markets.

In addition to all that tasty fare, visitors can look forward to an exciting Tourism Exposition presented by the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association present at the festival further sweetening an already appetizing proposition. This is one event you won't want to miss!

Continued over...

With delicious smells wafting down from food trucks and mouthwatering dishes being cooked up right before their eyes, it’s easy to see why street food has been such a massive hit here in the community.

PORT MACQUARIE

eats

Festival

Your mantra for the festival is ‘Collaboration, Community & Celebration’, why do you feel these things are so important in 2023?

It's the perfect opportunity to gather our community together and reflect on all that we have achieved. We have experienced an incredible amount of tragedy over the last few years; fires, floods, and COVID19 have severely impacted us all. But as this resilient town of ours has always demonstrated, in times of trouble we unite and rally around each other. It's time to keep electrifying this amazing spirit to ensure our future is brighter than ever before.

That is why I have chosen 'Collaboration, Community & Celebration' as my mantra

for this festival. It summarizes our philosophy completely - the importance of teamwork, coming together to celebrate what makes us unique and special. By collaborating now, we can make sure that this festive energy isn't just a one-off occurrence but instead something which sticks around long into our future.

It's time to recognize how far we've come, and come together towards a better tomorrow!

What can people expect to find at the festival?

The festival is set to be an amazing experience for everyone who attends! Not only will you find all the delicious street food, fresh produce and local music from community groups, but you'll also get to support some great markets with a great big helping hand from resident market hero Sarah as well as volunteers from BraveHeart Mid North Coast. Kids won't miss out on any of the fun either with some fun and special food stalls just for them or 'big kids', plus there's plenty of other attractions like the Tourism Expo proudly brought to you by the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association. Clever ideas from Queen of Hastings River Elsa at Port Adventure Cruises and support from the President of

It summarizes our philosophy completely - the importance of teamwork, coming together to celebrate what makes us unique and special.

GPMTA Janette that is the heart of this town, have helped shape this event into something truly amazing.

Can you tell us about some of the vendors you’ve got onboard

If you're looking for the best eats around Port Macquarie, look no further than the vendors onboard at our event. From "Gourmet Taste Sensations" spice girl Louise to everyone's favorite Philly Up, fresh seafood and cooked, chip on a stick and Mr Sippys Donuts. Have you tasted these fully loaded donuts? You won't be disappointed! Not convinced?

Check out my video review on Port Macquarie EaTs whe try these delicious treats on camera - trust me, they always sell out at events. We are still accepting applications so don't miss your chance to join us and support this community!

Is the festival something you’d like to

do again if the community enjoys it and gets behind it?

There's something special about festivals that bring a community together, and this one is no exception. With the goal to make it bigger and better next year, the team is working hard to ensure that

they get the feedback they need to make it happen.

In fact, we are even bringing in an IT specialist William Cook of Will Technology. He has been a very important part of the EaTs digital footprint and is a master at what he does. A local young boy with big dreams and you can see from our app and web how amazing he creates our dream. He is using our app during the festival itself, but also allows users to continue their fun afterwards!

Where can readers get more info on Eats Festival or get in touch?

We couldn't be more delighted to have Focus on board as part of the Eats Festival journey.

But we would not have gotten here without the ongoing support of all our followers. You are essential in helping us make a dream come true! We hope to see you at the festival, we are listed on VisitNSW.GOV and it's easy to keep up-to-date with everything going on through our website and social media channels and of course our app. Peter and my family also want to thank everyone who has been with us all along! Make sure you check out portmacquarieeats. com.au for more info and get in touch with questions or suggestions. We love hearing from you.

There’s something speical about festivals that bring a community together, and this one is no exception.

along the Macleay Valley Coast

1. Point Plomer, Crescent Head

Start your adventure into the beautiful Macleay Valley Coast by packing up the car and jumping on the ferry at Settlement Point to 4WD your way up the beach or along Point Plomer Rd. No 4WD? No worries, you can drive along the Pacific Highway and through Crescent Head to get to this spot.

Point Plomer is a popular surfing, swimming and fishing beach. Located near Crescent Head, the beach offers a fantastic right-hand point break for surfers and clean, calm swimming conditions that make it ideal for families and children. Take a walk to the top of the headland to spot Plomer’s resident playful pod of dolphins surfing or enjoy a long stroll to the end of the beach.

Better still, book a night or five in the beachside campground and wake up to the sound of gentle waves almost lapping on your doorstep.

2. Delicate Nobby Beach, Crescent Head

Continue the drive onto Delicate Nobby Beach, where you’ll find your own rock pools to play and snorkel in. Delicate is also one of the few beaches that allow dogs off-leash.

3. Racecourse Beach, Crescent Head

Quiet, expansive, beautiful and often windswept – this is the perfect place to escape to if you want a solitary walk or surf.

4. Killick Creek, Crescent Head

It’s a summertime tradition for many families to pack up the inflatable floaties and make

the pilgrimage to Crescent Head for lazy days spent floating in the creek (the lucky ones chance upon a king tide and fly down the creek at record speeds!). The creek runs out to the ocean, joining the Crescent Head Surfing Reserve - a world-famous surfing location with a phenomenal right-hand wave.

5. Hat Head and Korogoro Creek

A hot spot for families and fishermen, the turquoise Korogoro Creek is a sight to behold at high tide. Pack your snorkels and fishing gear and set up on the sand beside the creek for a day in the great outdoors. In summer, snorkelers will spot tropical fish that won’t be seen any further south than Hat Head. The beach itself is also safe for kids and patrolled during the holidays.

Staying in Port Macquarie for the Christmas holidays and looking for a new beach to explore? Follow us as we beach hop north from Port Macquarie, discovering all that the Macleay Valley Coast has to offer!

6. Gap Beach, South West Rocks

An adventurer’s paradise, Gap Beach can only be accessed by 4WD or by hiking the Smoky Cape Trail. Just be aware that the beach is not patrolled.

7. Trial Bay and Main Beach, South West Rocks

Trial Bay is a great spot for families, usually protected by the swell so a great calm spot for the kids and one of the few places on the East Coast you can watch the sun set over the water! Main Beach is a gloriously long stretch of sand that runs for 3.5 kilometres from Trial Bay into the heart of South West Rocks. This beach is patrolled during summer and school holidays.

8. Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks

Location, location, location! The picturesque Horseshoe Bay is a stone’s throw from the centre of town, making it a delightful spot to dine on fish and chips whilst watching the waves. The safe little cove is patrolled on weekends and during school holidays and is a wonderful place for a refreshing dip.

9. Stuarts Point

Set on the banks of the Macleay River, the Point Holiday Park is a serene getaway nestled between flowing waterways, beach frontage and lush forest. Whether you prefer to launch the kayak from the banks of the upper Macleay River, stroll along the footbridge to the beach, or just sit back and cast a line from the park, you’ll find it all right here.

10. Grassy Head

This little-known treasure has a secret fan base of holiday-makers who spend Christmas in the Grassy Head Holiday Park playing cricket and swimming at the beautiful beach just over the dunes. Walk around the headland to find your own rock pools or enjoy an uncrowded surf on the southern side of Grassy Head.

PAUL WINTER

PHOTOGRAPHER

Hi Paul. Thanks so much for speaking with FOCUS. Firstly, can you tell us a little about yourself and your experience as a drone photographer?

Thanks so much for reaching out and for the opportunity to share my story and connect with this great community.

My family are recently new to the Mid North Coast area. After living in Sydney for 27 years, we are very excited about discovering all the amazing locations in and around the Port Macquarie region.

Prior to creating CDSA I was a Composer and Music Educator. My artistic expression took the form of musical composition working with orchestras and various ensembles in Australia and internationally. I have always been fascinated with nature

and landscape photography. In 2020 I embarked upon the journey of becoming a fully qualified Drone Pilot and started my company CDSA.

Since then, I have worked within the film industry for online community events, partnered with other companies to create virtual tours, and have been commissioned by individual clients and businesses for personalised projects.

My growing portfolio includes landscape photography for the wider community and continues to evolve on an artistic level with me. I have had many amazing opportunities to film and

photograph some amazing places such as Tasmania, Europe, New Zealand, Uluru, but my favourite is the NSW Mid North Coast. Having spent my childhood in regional NSW it is great to rediscover the natural beauty that is abundant here.

When did

the drone and it’s art form and what is it you love about

craft?

In 2015 I acquired my first drone and began my adventure. In recent years the evolution of drones has seen their capacity expand exponentially. Aside from the artist expression available through ever improving lenses and cameras, I also

you first develop a love for

the

I have always been fascinated with nature and landscape photography. In 2020 I embarked upon the journey of becoming a fully qualified Drone Pilot and started my company CDSA.

Creative Drone Services Australia is an emerging company born out of a passion for drone photography, art and creativity with a mission to bring imagination to life by curating and creating carefully crafted imagery.

Aerial photography offers a unique perspective of the landscape and the world around us. I love to be able to capture this and share it with others.

love the practical applications in areas such as biodiversity, habitat protection, animal conservation, and water safety. Even more exciting in recent developments has been the most important task of coffee delivery via drone.

Aerial photography offers a unique perspective of the landscape and the world around us. I love to be able to capture this and share it with others. I particularly enjoy capturing sunrises and the ever changing light and colour at this time of day. I can be

at the same location on different days and the differing sunrises will make every morning unique. It almost feels like I am discovering a new world as the glimpses of light illuminate each new day. I love receiving comments from people who say they don't have to get up early to see the sunrise, because I do it for them!!

What type of equipment do you predominantly use?

For drone photography

I mainly use the DJI Mavic 2 Pro, which has a 1” sensor, can take jpeg and raw photographs up to 48mp in size. It also can shoot 4k video. I use this drone mainly for sunrise captures and video as well as cinematic video footage.

My other go to is the DJI Mini 2 – it is smaller, more transportable and can go

places where the Mavic 2 can’t reach! There are certain areas, due to CASA regulations, that are restricted for the Mavic 2 Pro, but because of the size of the drone, the Mini can reach! It’s also lighter and much more easily transportable for harder to reach locations, such as when hiking to locations! For normal camera work, I have a Nikon Z6, with an array of lenses! We are also about to expand our fleet. We are very excited about this, but there is more to follow later in the article!

Continues over...

I love receiving comments from people who say they don’t have to get up early to see the sunrise, because I do it for them!!

As the Director of Creative Drone Services Australia, your business offers personalised aerial photography and videography services specialising in real estate drone photography and videography and landscape aerial photography. Tell us a little about where you draw your inspiration?

Creation is my inspiration. The expansive interpretation of nature, the showcase of infinite wonder and beauty in creation provides a never-ending resource to discover. The drone becomes a tool that facilitates this exploration of our natural environment and enables the capturing of moments that can remind us of the essence of creation and speak to our hearts.

Your team are all highly qualified drone

pilots with Remote Pilots License (RePL), Certificate III in Aviation, First Aid, Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC) and all approach their work with a passion for innovative expression through awe-inspiring visual imagery. Why are each of these credentials important from a client’s perspective if engaging the services of your team? Expertise and safety are paramount when dealing with drones. The skills to fly drones safely, as well as the knowledge of safety requirements are essential and when coupled

The drone becomes a tool that facilitates this exploration of our natural environment and enables the capturing of moments that can remind us of the essence of creation and speak to our hearts.

with the creative passion and artistic expression we are able to move forward on projects with confidence and excitement to see what evolves. It is vital that in all situations we make an assessment of potential risks and knowledge to respond appropriately.

When flying in airspace we are governed by NESA regulations, so it is essential that our pilots have a thorough knowledge of this. It is always necessary to know what other aircraft are in the area and there are times when it is necessary to communicate your location to others flying in the same area. Of

course an understanding of first aid is always essential in remote areas. Australian fauna are renowned for their dangerous attributes.

How do you see your business developing and what is on the horizon for you for the new year ahead?

With a love of nature and photography, the natural progression for our business is to develop a business plan around working with other people in this sector to use drones to find new solutions to challenges. With that in mind we have purchased 2 new drones - The Mavic 3 Enterprise (M3E) and the Mavic 3 Thermal (M3T).

These drones will allow us the capability to complete 2D and 3D modelling of land, buildings and structures, for surveys and visualisations, maintenance and safety. The thermal drone will be used for biodiversity surveys, and particularly for our area, Koala surveys!

What have been some of your highlights of your work looking back?

I have been so blessed to do something that I love. Everytime I take a drone up there is a necessity to “be in the moment” – to focus solely on navigating the drone and the

image you are about to take. From that aspect, there are no highlights, because I love every time the drone takes off.

In terms of places, it was very special to be able to go to Uluru and shoot there, especially the sunrises. It is such a special place and such an amazing time of day!

Away from the camera where would we find you spending your own time?

With family creating memories, building relationships, laughing, smiling, sharing life with those I love the most. Meeting new people and exploring this wonderful Mid North Coast and all it has to offer. Drinking

great coffee and finding the most awe inspiring places to share via images and art.

For people wanting to find out more about your work or engage your services, how can they best connect with you?

I would be very excited for people to make contact about images, or in regards to the 2d, 3d or thermal mapping! The best way to see my work would be on social media, via my website or feel free to send me an email. I’m always happy to arrange to meet and have a chat over a coffee on the beach!

creativedroneservicesaustralia

CreativeDroneServicesAustralia

creativedroneservice.com.au

info@creativedroneserces.com.au

Thanks Paul. Interview: Sarah Baker.

In terms of places, it was very special to be able to go to Uluru and shoot there, especially the sunrises. It is such a special place and such an amazing time of day!

When did you first start illustrating and how would you describe your style?

I went to Art School when I lived in Sydney, although I must admit I cannot remember a time when I did not draw or paint. My formal training was firstly at Meadowbank Technical College. I spent two years there completing an Art Certificate. The rigorous training there in the basics set me up well. After Meadowbank I went to the City Art Institute in Sydney for three years where I completed a Visual Arts Degree. It was here at City Art Institute that I ramped up my interest in drawing and painting native flora and fauna. As the college was in the heart of Sydney, I was able to take advantage of its particular locality and in my own time spent many hours drawing at Taronga Zoo, The Australian Museum and The

Royal Botanic Gardens.

At Art School I studied drawing, painting and printmaking. I chose drawing as my major as I felt that this discipline would serve me best. I expect that the best description of my style is Realism. I attempt to show as much detail as possible. I feel that I need to be absolutely accurate. In some exhibitions I exhibit in this is mandatory and work is checked by botanists and biologists before the work is exhibited. It is therefore important that the work is correct before it leaves the studio. For me personally the creation of my works is a journey and I am constantly learning from my subjects with every stroke of a pencil

or a brush.

Where do you draw a lot of your inspiration from?

My inspiration is primarily drawn from nature. I draw a lot from where I live in this remarkable area, the Hastings Valley. I live in the Hastings Valley hinterland at Birdwood, my property borders the Werrikimbee Wilderness. Occasionally I also choose subjects from outside my local area, generally the motivation being around environmental degradation, species extinction and climate change. Then when I am feeling in a whimsical mood, I will paint a still life, even in this genre there is inevitably a reference to animals or plants.

In some exhibitions I exhibit in this is mandatory and work is checked by botanists and biologists before the work is exhibited.

Colleen Werner is an accomplished artist living on large acreage at Birdwood, drawing much of her inspiration from the stunning native flora and fauna surrounding her.

What are your favourite mediums to use?

My favourite mediums are graphite and watercolour. I have also worked in oils, printmaking and leadlight. When I first moved to Birdwood, I didn’t have much studio space. This meant that I focused mainly on graphite and watercolour. This situation paid dividends as my focus was sharpened on these two mediums. My proficiency in watercolour led to me being elected a member of The Australian Watercolour Institute. Most of my published work is also in watercolour.

Can you tell us a bit about your creative process, how you go from an idea to a finished piece?

I am constantly having ideas popping into my head. When I have an idea worth considering I make a shorthand note in a book so I don’t

forget the idea. These scribblings are very basic and would not make much sense to anyone but myself. I am quite often asked if I need to be in the mood to create. Having this backup means there is never an excuse not to work. Ideas come to me at the most peculiar times, be it tasks like weeding the garden or washing up. I figure when my mind is rather blank and I am doing mundane things ideas flow in. I am fortunate in that I usually have a very clear vision in my mind of what the finished artwork will look like.

When I start any of my works, I undertake a reasonable amount of research about the subject. I have a fairly large library at hand, along with collected materials. I do a lot of cross referencing so that I get it right. Then I will undertake pencil studies. I have sketchbooks full of these studies. This process helps greatly in understanding my subject. After this is when I will put pencil and/ or paint to paper. I am mindful of the limitations of working with watercolour, mistakes are hard to fix so having done the groundwork before starting to paint pays off.

Where I can I will work from life at all stages of this process. I find any other way difficult. As I want to create an accurate representation this

method serves me best. You moved from Sydney to Birdwood and now operate a nursery, growing and propagating native plants, as well as caring for orphaned and injured wildlife at your property. What made you want to make this tree change?

I grew up in Sydney, but always felt that I was a square peg in a round hole. I always wanted to live in the bush. Even when I was studying in Sydney my partner and I were making plans to move away from Sydney. As a child I had access to bushland and had summer holidays on the south coast of NSW where I would visit my relatives on a dairy farm. As a child my favourite reading was May Gibbs, Dorothy Wall, Ruth Park and Beatrix Potter. It is not surprising that the desire to live in the bush was set in my bones from an early age.

Before I left Sydney I grew native plants, which were mainly plants from the Cumberland Plain. These trees were destined for local parkland. I grew about 7000 plants before I left Sydney. I have continued propagating and growing native plants. On arriving in the Hastings area, I fell in love with the plants I saw around me. I now mainly focus on rainforest species. I also have been growing koala food trees for the Upper Hastings. My nursery is quite sizable and the plants are destined for properties locally as well as my own. At times excess seed and seedlings are given to the Port Macquarie Landcare Nursery.

Continued over...

As a child my favourite reading was May Gibbs, Dorothy Wall, Ruth Park and Beatrix Potter. It is not surprising that the desire to live in the bush was set in my bones from an early age.

I am also involved in caring for injured and orphaned wildlife. This had its beginnings in Sydney where I rehabilitated a Boobook Owl. It is now rare for me not to have an animal or bird in care. I am a member of FAWNA, our local wildlife care group. I am only one of many who dedicate their time to wildlife in the area.

I have looked after many different local species of wallabies, possums, gliders, birds and the occasional reptile. The majority of my charges are wallabies. I have looked after Red Necked Wallabies, Swamp Wallabies, Pademelons and I now have in care a rare Parma Wallaby. I have

recently trained to look after bats and am looking forward to doing so. As my property is a release site most of my charges are released on my property. The only exception was a wombat called Wilma. It was a great privilege to raise a wombat. She was eventually successfully released back to her home territory on the Northern Tablelands.

It goes without saying that both the plants I grow and the animals I care for are a great inspiration for present and future artwork.

The natural environment is clearly something you’re passionate about, can you tell us a bit about that connection and some of the environmental projects you participate in?

My interaction with the natural environment is best described as my life. I draw on it for inspiration for my art practice, but it is more than that. I grow plants in the hope that I can help to enrich the environment, create habitat

desperately needed for the wildlife that I care for. I want to leave a legacy for those who follow me. I feel for the young people of today, unless things are done to reverse the environmental decline we are witnessing they will inherit a world not as rich as the one I have enjoyed.

My partner and I have put the majority of our property under a Conservation Agreement with the NSW Biodiversity Trust, by doing so we have locked up 380ha for the environment in perpetuity. I envisage this land as future old growth.

We are at the moment involved with a Bell Minor Associated Dieback Study. This is a project being undertaken by the local Land Services. This is due to finish at the end of June. We hope that in the future more scientific

I feel for the young people of today, unless things are done to reverse the environmental decline we are witnessing they will inherit a world not as rich as the one I have enjoyed.

studies will be able to utilise our property.

I am also undertaking a project outside the conservation area which involves fencing off and vegetating a creek line. I have grown thousands of plants which will be in the ground shortly.

The aim of the project is multifold, apart from protecting the creek and enhancing water quality it will be a corridor and cool sheltering area for koalas along with other creatures that inhabit this property. I am managing this project with the help of Hastings Landcare and the Local Land Services.

You ‘ve got some exhibitions and events coming up, can you tell us about those?

The last three years have been difficult to say the least. I survived drought, fire, flood and COVID19. The fire almost destroyed all that we had built up over the years. We fought the fire with the help of a couple of friends for 10 hours and saved our house, including my studio, everything else was laid to waste. Then the flood took out our access bridge. To top things off COVID19 brought the exhibition of

artwork in galleries to a sudden halt.

I am pleased to say that things are looking up now. I have just been in an exhibition with two friends recently, Jackie Beckhurst and Jo Davidson, at the Wauchope Gallery. It has launched me back

into the world of exhibiting. The Australian Watercolour Institute is due to have its annual exhibition happen again in 2023 after a couple of difficult years of false starts. Then I will be working on another book with the Florilegium Society on the ancient Gondwana Forests. The Florilegium Society works with the Royal Botanic Society Sydney. I then hope to produce a body of work for a solo exhibition exploring further some of the flora and fauna of these Gondwanna Forests.

You have exhibited all over the world, what have been some of the highlights for you?

I have exhibited in a number of countries including Canada, China, Germany, South Korea, Taiwan, the United Kingdom and America. There are two major highlights that

I will mention. The first highlight was when I travelled to Bursan in South Korea for The Grand Festival of Asian Watercolour Painting. I represented the Australian Watercolour Institute at this event. It was a huge event with participants from seven countries. The second highlight was when I travelled to the United Kingdom where I was in an exhibition at the Dr. Shirley Sherwood Gallery at Kew Gardens. The exhibition was based on the first book published by the Florilegium Society celebrating the 200th Anniversary of the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney. I had two paintings in this exhibition.

Locally I must say that it is with great pride that I have given back to my old stomping grounds The Royal Botanic Gardens and Taronga Zoo where I developed my skills. I have produced work which is now part of the National Herbarium Collection, Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney. Then I produced work for Taronga Zoo which helped to fund the enclosure for penguins and seals. I had the joy of meeting and painting a Fiordland Penguin called Mr Munroe, a true highlight.

Thanks Colleen.

I have just been in an exhibition with two friends recently, Jackie Beckhurst and Jo Davidson, at the Wauchope Gallery. It has launched me back into the world of exhibiting.

Enjoy the magical Hasting River with family or friends in Port Macquarie’s most unique stays featuring Airstream, glamping or luxury family cabins. Get on the water with our barbecue boats, kayaks or polycraft boat hire. There truly is something at Camp Jordan for all!

AND RECONNECT Relax LET’S

Port Macquarie Hastings Council has received funding to deliver a series of events across the region in the next couple of months to kick off 2023 with a bang. Wauchope, Laurieton and Port Macquarie will each host a community event made possible through the Reconnecting Regional NSW - Community Events Program!

All three events will invite the community to come out and enjoy free, inclusive and accessible activities. Each event will offer something for the whole family including live music, dance, multicultural celebrations and so much more.

PMHC’s Group Manager Community Lucilla

Marshall says “it’s time for some fun! Let’s get back together and dance, sing and laugh. I think we all need to let our hair down after a hard couple of years. But seriously, the last few years have been difficult for many in our community. Some of us have felt socially isolated and missed regular contact with family and friends. These events welcome one and all to genuinely reconnect with each other across our wider region.“

The first event will kick off in February, and has a big focus on music. We are inviting our community to head to Town Green West every Saturday in February (next to the new playground) for entertaining evenings of live music, dance and performance.

The excitement will kick off at 5pm and run through till 9pm for each event. “We are encouraging everyone to grab some dinner from a nearby café or restaurant, pack the picnic blanket and make a night of it on the banks of our beautiful Hastings River“ says Lucilla.

Each week audiences can expect a different offering of live performances - no two shows will be the same! The February event in Port Macquarie is just the beginning. More information on the Laurieton and Wauchope events will be announced shortly, so be prepared for exciting updates very soon!

To finds out all the details on all three events, please visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/reconnectionevents

pmhc.nsw.gov.au/summer-sessions

Proudly funded by the NSW Government as part of the Reconnecting Regional NSW - Community Events Program

fun mandatory

After a challenging few years, we think it is time to enjoy some well-deserved reconnection and relaxation with friends and family.

COVER DISH

Gin cured salmon with avocado, puffed rice, fennel and burnt orange dressing Whalebone Wharf Seafood Restaurant

SARAH HILL

HEAD CHEF

BILLS

Hi Sarah. Thanks so much for speaking with Focus and taking a few moments away from your busy role as Head Chef of Bills Fishhouse & Bar. Tell us what you love most about being in the kitchen and what is on the horizon for the Summer months at Bills!

The thing I love about being in the kitchen is having the creative passion and freedom to develop new dishes on a regular basis for our specials board and our five-course ‘Chef’s Tasting’ Menu. Along with this, I love to see the reactions of customers as they try new creations!

Over the next few months at Bills, you will see more local fresh seafood become available. We have just recently received fabulous news that after being closed for more than 300 days, the Hastings River is back open - so we will be serving fresh, juicy, and local Sydney Rock Oysters once again!

Where did your passion for creating amazing dishes come from and who or what inspires you in the kitchen?

My passion for food and creating amazing dishes comes from my mentors - my Great Grandmother, Grandmother, Mother, TAFE teachers and the very talented head chefs I have had the privilege to work with in both Australia and the United Kingdom.

I am also surrounded by very flexible and

knowledgeable local provedores, and with their great communication practices, I can experiment with a range of high-quality flavours. This also pushes me to research more about the species of fish, fruit and vegetables on offer to create my final product.

What would you say is one of your most requested signature dishes on the menu?

There are quite a few signature dishes currently on our Summer Menu. If I had to pick just one, it would have to be the Ocean Trout and Snapper Scotch Egg. After recently traveling and living abroad in the United Kingdom, I wanted to adapt and change one of Britain’s most recognised dishes by transforming it into something of my own. Our sister restaurant twotriplefour by Bills has its own version as well, so it felt appropriate to launch one on the Bills menu! Bringing the scotch egg to a coastal seafood restaurant was a challenge in trying to work out the right balance of flavours. Come in and try it! See if I nailed it.

Bills boasts an award-winning wine list as well as premium cocktails and beers all carefully curated to highlight locally sourced products and compliment the sea-to-plate menu. What are some of your preferred wine recommendations from the current wine list and which dish would you pair it with?

There is no right or wrong and enjoying a food and wine pairing is subjective. However, when matching a wine, I always think about balance,

bold flavours, citrus notes and tannins within the wine and consider how this would sit within a menu.

My preferred pairings would be to begin with a glass of Horner Wines Picpoul – a French grape that is renowned as a wine to be paired with oysters. After being aged for a short time in French Oak barrels, it creates an extra level of depth to work with while still complimenting the distinct oyster flavour.

As a second course, the Collector Shoreline Rosé and our Yellowfin Tuna Taco sit very well together. This pairing creates a great ‘Goldilocks’ experience for the customer - not too powerful or too soft; and not too heavy or too light!

I would finish off with a De Beaurepaire Le Marquis Cabernet Sauvignon with our Charred Swordfish. After exploring the Bordeaux region in France, I am very partial to the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, but I also believe that the medium to full bodied characteristics compliment the firm flesh and smokiness of the Swordfish as well as its sweet, pickled garnish!

For those on holidays in Port Macquarie this Summer who have not yet had the pleasure of dining at Bills Fishhouse & Bar, can you describe the restaurant in one sentence?

Why not come down and enjoy a beautifully crafted Five Course ‘Chef’s Tasting’ Menu – it showcases our sea-to-plate style with bold local flavours, flair and passion, which you will not find elsewhere in Port Macquarie!

FISHHOUSE & BAR

Plating Up

PHOTO BY JOSH MOSES

focus contributor.

Wine TIME

with ALEX CASSEGRAIN SENIOR WINEMAKER CASSEGRAIN WINES

TO PICK OR NOT TO PICK

Every wine is different, not just in relation to the variety but also on the style and target market that the wine is being produced for. In many cases especially in the “good years” winemakers love to allow the fruit to show all it has to offer with a little bit of guidance. However, in some years when conditions are less favourable for the ripening of the grapes, the winemakers and viticulturalist intervention is crucial, and can make or break a wine.

In saying this, there are those years in which the industry has very little, to no control or knowledge on how to ‘save a wine’. For example, when much of the East Coast of Australia experienced bush fires in 2020 that resulted in many regions having ‘smoke tainted’ fruit/ wine which was something we knew very little about in regards to mitigation and or removal. Thus the question as to pick or not to pick was always front of mind and

in most cases it was not to pick due to the risk involved.

Cassegrain Wines assembled an International group of academics, researchers and industry partners from the University of Adelaide, The Australian Wine Research Institute, VAF Memstar and New Zealand Based Ligar, who have worked together for more than two years to understand and overcome the issue of smoke taint, to build the wine industry’s capacity to predict, mitigate and respond to risk associated with vineyard exposure to bushfire smoke. It is still early days but after completing the commercial scale process in late 2022 we are all extremely excited with the results.

This is something that I see as ground breaking and gives a little bit of a reassurance to citiculturists and winemakers all around the world that we can tackle something that has in the past had such a devastating impact on the industry.

IT IS STILL EARLY DAYS BUT AFTER COMPLETING THE COMMERCIAL SCALE PROCESS IN LATE 2022 WE ARE ALL EXTREMELY EXCITED WITH THE RESULTS.

Palate

Beautiful Port Mac…. there’s no more glorious time of the year than now. This week as I write, the days have been deliciously warm and sunny, the ocean has been crystal clear, aquamarine and the absolute perfect swimming temperature.

It’s so close as you drive along Pacific Drive that you can almost taste it…the smell of the salt air, the glimmering sunlight reflection, the inviting warm, soft sand ready and waiting to caress your weary feet.

But, no. You can’t stop can you? There’s places to go, people to see, work to be done.

As the holiday season begins it can be all too easy to fall in to the familiar trap when you’re still ‘at home’ of getting things done and feeling as if you need to remain on the endless loop of keeping busy and getting constantly distracted by the myriad of things that present themselves as needing to be done.

With this in mind, I wonder is it possible to have our cake and eat it too….in this beautiful and popular holiday destination that visitors flock to at this time, of course happily frolicking and taking full and unashamed

LIVE ‘AS IF’

advantage of all the wonderful attractions that this amazing region has to offer.

By this, what I mean is – could it be possible to be a full time Port Mac resident and somehow live ‘as if’ on holiday?

After all, we’ve got it all right here. Why not enjoy it at a deeper level from the comfort of our own homes?

Instead of driving on by that perfect beach vista, why not keep the car loaded with cossies, towel and sunscreen just so you can just pull over on a total whim and take full advantage of the perfect conditions.

Or maybe just push that ‘to do’ list on the backburner and actually take a ‘tourist’ drive out to one of the many spectacular destinations throughout our hinterland.

The thing is, if you’re a bit crafty about it, it is entirely possible to ‘live near your beach and swim in it too’. Even if duty calls louder than anything else and you can’t quite shake work, then you still very much have the option to be able to transform your day from office related headaches into a simple and blissful days end of fish and chips as the sun sets.

So there’s really no need for FOMO whilst

watching those lucky holiday makers gallivanting around and actually enjoying the place!

As I’ve mentioned, Port Macquarie and it’s surrounds has the perfect coastal vibe, not to be beaten. But unfortunately for many of us, we have trouble incorporating our day-today selves with our holiday selves. Our home, stunning though it is, is often associated with the stressful and the mundane. Long working days, time pressed school runs and queues at the supermarket are also located right here. Too often we clench the steering wheel, preoccupied by a million and one trivial concerns as we drive past some of the most breathtaking scenery on the coast. Visitors dine at the restaurant, absolutely enthralled by our beautiful region – “you are so lucky to live here” – we hear almost every day.

And we are. With just a few little tweaks we can enjoy the best of both worlds. Failing that there’s always a trip to be booked somewhere else…only to return and think “wow, our beaches are sooo much better’.

Happy Holidays!

FROM THE STUNNED MULLET with LOU PERRI

focus contributor.

Annelize Coetzer and Estelle Venter are two of the founding members of PMQ Distillery. The Distillery was born of an idea between friends, and they are now making delicious gin and vodka incorporating locally sourced ingredients, and hosting customers for tastings and the yummiest cocktails.

Hi Annelize & Estelle. PMQ Distillery has recently opened its doors, where did the idea and concept for PMQD come from?

It’s a bit of a cliché, but we are four families who one night were hanging out, and our friend Ray Barth, who is now our Head Distiller brought over some home made gin and we were hooked. We all thought, ‘we should sell this’ and that’s how the concept of PMQ Distillery was conceived.

While the idea is to sell gin and vodka, our main concept is the brand itself and what it stands for, which is incredibly important to us. We want it to be a part of the PMQ community, in doing so we try to use local produce and incorporate as many local businesses as we can.

How have the early days and response from locals been so far?

It has been incredibly amazing, we get such great responses from those who visit our distillery and through community chatter on our social pages - we honestly didn’t expect so much positivity and support.

Can you tell us a bit about the process of creating your Gin?

Our approach to making gin is to understand stilling as an art, which requires the master to perfectly balance the purity of the spirit and concentration of flavour. All our gins and vodkas are triple distilled ensuring the best quality of spirit, perfectly smooth on the pallet. Our master distiller has spent years perfecting our subtle, yet surprisingly flavour filled spirits. We combine well known gin botanicals - juniper, coriander, star anise, and citrus with lesser known native botanicals like Lemon Myrtle and Bramble Berry.

You currently have a few different blends of Gin available, can you tell us about

each of them?

We knew we wanted a few varietals when we launched, so we took the time during COVID to really refine our recipes and our Master Distiller Ray, has done an incredible job. Our goal was to create a gin that you wanted to drink neat, not diluted with mixers (but if that’s your style, we accept it, we don’t judge haha). Our flavours currently are:-

Lighthouse Beach Dry Gin - Our traditional London dry gin is fresh, clean and crisp but so smooth you can enjoy it neat or over ice. Keynotes of aromatic juniper and a subtle citrus twist, balanced with spicy hints of coriander and fragrant lemongrass.

Signature Gin infused with Lemon Myrtle –Our gin royalty. Traditional botanicals blend floral characteristics with a touch of star anise, perfectly complemented by native lemon. Easy to enjoy and share.

ANNELIZE COETZER & ESTELLE VENTER FOUNDING MEMBERS

Beechwood Gin infused with Natural Honey –

This one is Ray’s baby. Ray is also a beekeeper by trade and the natural honey used in this gin comes from his bees. This liquid gold gin is deliciously sweet with natural honey flavour, absolutely no mixers needed here, almost like sipping a liqueur.

How do you come up with a new recipe and what’s involved in perfecting the blends?

Our main focus is to produce a quality product that stands out but is still affordable. Being gin lovers ourselves we are a bit biased when it comes to choosing new blends, and we go with what we would enjoy in gin, that being more citrus profiles, or simply a sweeter blend. Finding the perfect balance of flavours is a lengthy process, involving numerous still runs, recipe adjustments, in-house and external tasting inputs. We are excited to begin bottling our newest blend - Pink Bramble Berry.

You source many of your ingredients locally, why do you feel that is important and can you share a bit about some of the local ingredients that go into your spirits?

It is incredibly important for us, and it is one of our foundation pillars that was discussed when building our brand. James, our brand guy and one part founder, is always quick to ensure we stay true to this fundamental value. PMQ is not just a world class destination that

we love, it is also our home, our community and if we can give back to it, we will. We have been in discussions with various industry bodies that promote Port Macquarie and we want to collaborate with them to shine an even bigger light over here so definitely stay tuned for that.

When it comes to ingredients we source only Australian produced or locally sourced products. Our Signature Lemon Myrtle is infused with locally grown Lemon Myrtle from the beautiful Lake Innes grounds. Honey produced by hives around Comboyne, and Bramble Berry grown in the wilds of Mount Seaview, are also amongst our star ingredients.

Our business model is one of sustainability, and we strive to be environmentally conscious. We’re looking into implementing a bottle return and refill scheme for our local community.

Can you tell us a bit about the team there and what their roles are?

We all share the workload in some capacity. Ray is our Master Distiller, but when it comes to the day-to-day running of the business we have various skill sets that we utilise to build

our business - from brand and marketing, logistics, sales, operations etc. This is still a side hustle for us so an all-for-one and onefor-all mentality has been adopted.

As well as the bottled spirits you have available, it sounds like you have a pretty yummy selection of cocktails on offer too! What are your current faves?

We offer a few cocktails showcasing our gin and vodka spirits, as well as seasonal themed cocktails. Our ‘A little bit naughty Grinch Cocktail’ is a best seller. A combination of sweet honey and ginger beer, sour lime and grapefruit juice, with a naughty hint of chili and vodka.

I would recommend you try our hugely popular Cocktail Flight showcasing our spirits in a selection of traditional cocktails - Moscow Mule, Cranberry G&T, Cucumber Gin Gimlet and Bee’s Knees.

Where can people check out what’s on offer and keep up to date on what’s happening at PMQD?

The best place is our Facebook page which we keep up to date and communicate with our PMQD community.

Beechwood Gin infused with Natural Honey – This one is Ray’s baby. Ray is also a beekeeper by trade and the natural honey used in this gin comes from his bees.

SUNDAY, 1

12:30pm

BROCK COLLEY

Simon Gudgeon Chop n’ Chill

12:30pm Pam Hata The Terrace at Wave Bowl

1:00 pm Gary King Long Flat Pub

1:00 pm Dusty Soul Moo & Bean

1:00pm Tanisha Palmer Tacking Point Tavern

4:00 pm Brendan Jenssen Bonny Hills Hotel

5:00 pm Ruby Blunt Tacking Point Tavern

8:00 pm Besty Hastings Hotel

THURSDAY, 5

6:30pm Can’t Adult Today Club North Haven

7:00pm Russell Dick Bar Capones

FRIDAY, 6

5:00 pm Chris Rose Little Shack

5:00 pm Live Music Wicked Elf

5:30 pm Andrew Cousins Chop n’ Chill

6:00pm Kyle Moore The Terrace at Wave Bowl

6:30 pm Sarah McKenna PM Golf Club

7:30 pm Dusty Soul Laurieton Hotel

7:30 pm Stevie B Port City Bowling Club

8:00 pm Fun House Bonny Hills Hotel

8:30pm Can’t Adult Today Finnians

SATURDAY, 7

12:00pm Nikki Rudge Brew Haven

12:30pm Andrew Best Chop n’ Chill

1:30 pm Lighthouse Music Wauchope CC

GREATER-PORT MACQUARIE JANUARY 2023

2:00 pm Sarah McKenna Wicked Elf

4:00pm The Coppertones Tacking Point Tavern

7:00 pm Mike & The Bounty Hunters The Terrace at Wave Bowl

7:30 pm Graham Howle Bonny Hills Hotel

7:30 pm Craig Stewart Hastings Hotel

7:30 pm Fella Felafel Port City Bowling Club

8:00 pm Gotcha Covered Laurieton Hotel

SUNDAY, 8

12:30 pm Pure Acoustic Chop n’ Chill

1:00 pm Nikki Rudge Moo & Bean

1:30 pm Besty Wauchope Country Club

2:00 pm Dan Hopkins Laurieton Hotel

3:00 pm Al McLeod Hello Sailor

3:00 pm Jake Davey The Terrace at Wave Bowl

4:00 pm Possum Scratchers Bonny Hills Hotel

4:00 pm Sarah McKenna Club North Haven

4:00 pm Beau Bennett Lake Cathie Tavern

4:00 pm Ross Ruprecht Tacking Point Tavern

THURSDAY, 12

6:30 pm Jessica Flanagan Club North Haven

7:00 pm Moore Duo Bar Capones

FRIDAY, 13

5:00 pm Beau Bennett Little Shack

5:00 pm Jessica Flanagan Wicked Elf

5:30 pm Andrew Best Chop n’ Chill

6:00 pm Hudson Rose Hello Sailor

ANDREW COUSINS

CHRIS ROSE

6:00pm Pure Acoustic The Terrace at Wave Bowl

6:30 pm Craig Stewart PM Golf Club

7:30 pm Richard Coombs Bonny Hills Hotel

7:30 pm Pam Hata Laurieton Hotel

7:30 pm Last Stand Chisel Barns Show

Port City Bowling Club

8:30 pm Jonesy Finnians Irish Tavern

SATURDAY, 14

11:00 am Damon Winter Douglas Vale

12:00 pm Pam Hata Brew Haven

12:30 pm Jackson James Chop n’ Chill

2:00 pm Brock Colley Wicked Elf

4:00 pm The Davis Band Bonny Hills Hotel

4:00 pm Dan Hopkins Tacking Point Tavern

6:30 pm Reuben Carr Little Turkey

7:00pm Gotcha Covered The Terrace at Wave Bowl

7:30 pm Nikki Rudge Hastings Hotel

8:00 pm Pure Acoustic Laurieton Hotel

SUNDAY, 15

12:30 pm Craig Stewart Chop n’ Chill

1:00 pm Autumn Blue Moo & Bean

1:30 pm Gary King Wauchope Country Club

2:00 pm Goody 2 Shoes Laurieton Hotel

3:00 pm Tanisha Palmer Hello Sailor

3:00pm Max Marvel The Terrace at Wave Bowl

4:00 pm Nikki Rudge Bonny Hills Hotel

4:00 pm Kyle Moore Club North Haven

4:00 pm Pure Acoustic Tacking Point Tavern

NIKKI RUDGE JESS FLANAGAN

THURSDAY, 19

6:30 pm Sam Buckley Club North Haven

7:00 pm Natalie Davis Bar Capones

FRIDAY, 20

5:00 pm Keanu Jai Little Shack

5:00 pm Natalie Davis Wicked Elf

5:30 pm Mat Brooker Chop n’ Chill

6:00 pm Saije Hello Sailor

6:00pm Geoff Jones The Terrace at Wave Bowl

6:30 pm Gary King PM Golf Club

7:30 pm Can’t Adult Today Laurieton Hotel

7:30 pm Pure Acoustic Port City Bowling Club

8:00 pm High Cloud Band Bonny Hills Hotel

8:30 pm Rump Shaker Finnians Irish Tavern

SATURDAY, 21

12:00 pm Dan Hopkins Brew Haven

12:30 pm Brody Ireland Chop n’ Chill

2:00 pm Cheryl Hall Duo Wicked Elf

4:00 pm Zed Charles Tacking Point Tavern

7:00pm Jessica Flanagan The Terrace at Wave Bowl

7:30 pm Chris Rose Bonny Hills Hotel

7:30 pm Boukabo Hastings Hotel

7:30 pm New Wave Port City Bowling Club

8:00 pm Alter Ego Laurieton Hotel

8:30 pm Dirty Covers Finnians Irish Tavern

SUNDAY, 22

12:30 pm Goody 2 Shoes Chop n’ Chill

1:00 pm Dusty Soul Moo & Bean

1:30pm Nikki & Besty Wauchope Country Club

2:00 pm Bill Roberts Laurieton Hotel

3:00 pm The Coppertones Hello Sailor

3:00 pm Live Music The Terrace at Wave Bowl

4:00 pm No Control Bonny Hills Hotel

4:00 pm Brock Colley Club North Haven

4:00 pm Minni Marks Tacking Point Tavern

THURSDAY, 26

12:00pm Heywood Moore BandLong Flat Pub

12:30pm Craig Stewart Chop n’ Chill

4:00 pm Live Music Tacking Point Tavern

6:30 pm Brody Ireland Club North Haven

7:00 pm Andy Blackmore Bar Capone

FRIDAY, 27

5:00 pm Beau Bennett Little Shack

5:00 pm Sam Buckley Wicked Elf

5:30 pm Mat Brooker Chop n’ Chill

6:00 pm Simon Gudgeon Hello Sailor

6:00pm Jake Davey The Terrace at Wave Bowl

6:30 pm Brody Ireland PM Golf Club

7:00 pm Leigh I’Anson Fernhill Tavern

7:30 pm Kyle Moore Laurieton Hotel

7:30 pm The Flow Cries Port City Bowling Club

8:00 pm Supercell Bonny Hills Hotel

8:30 pm Bill Roberts Finnians Irish Tavern

SATURDAY, 28

11:00 am Damon Winter Douglas Vale

12:00 pm Craig Stewart Brew Haven

12:30 pm Brody Ireland Chop n’ Chill

1:30 pm Lighthouse Music Wauchope Country Club

2:00 pm Hannah Lee Wicked Elf

4:00 pm Jasmine O’Brien Bonny Hills Hotel

4:00 pm Cassidy Alison Tacking Point Tavern

6:30 pm Goody 2 Shoes Little Turkey

7:00 pm Live Music The Terrace at Wave Bowl

7:30 pm Gary King Hastings Hotel

7:30 pm Ruby Blunt Port City Bowling Club

8:00 pm Funhouse Laurieton Hotel

8:30 pm Vice Versa Finnians Irish Tavern

SUNDAY, 29

12:30 pm Craig Stewart Chop n’ Chill

1:00 pm Brody Ireland Moo & Bean

1:30 pm Pure Acoustic Wauchope Country Club

2:00 pm Keanu Jai Laurieton Hotel

3:00 pm Live Music The Terrace at Wave Bowl

4:00 pm Hudson Rose Bonny Hills Hotel

4:00 pm Hannah Lee Club North Haven

4:00 pm Ryan Daley Tacking Point Tavern

STONE FRUIT

Summer means stone fruit season. This year’s fruit has been delicious and quality is superb. Whether you’re on team peach or love the nectarines, enjoy the Australian fruit season while it lasts.

We have yellow and white Peaches, both with that beautiful crunch on the fresh and firm, then turning juicy as they ripen. Nectarines are renowned for yellow being both sweet and tart and white slightly firmed, as they both develop into juicier fruits as they ripen.

Both fruits make an excellent snack or in addition to a fruit salad or dessert and will be well enjoyed in the coming summer months.

Don’t forget our straight delivered organic produce fresh from the truck. Plus you can shop online for our pre-made fruit, veg, combination and special packs that can be delivered straight to your door. Christmas was a hit and we wish to thank all of our regular, new and wholesale customers for supporting us. We look forward to a great new year.

Cabrera, also known as Llama Is The Name, is a local artist who works with textiles and embroidery to create vibrant pieces that capture the unique beauty of our local landscape.

ALANA

C A B R E R A

ARTIST of the MONTH

Hi Alana. Has art and creating always been something you have had an interest in?

Hello! Yes! I have always loved art and creating. I grew up with creative people and artists in my family. My Mum was always drawing and doing crafty things and my grandparents did huge stained glass installations. Art was always my favourite class in school and I used to love going to the craft store to get kits to work on. My sister and I would spend the weekends crocheting, cross-stitching, latch hooking, drawing, painting, etc.

When did you first learn embroidery and what do you love about it?

I used to cross-stitch when I was younger and was trying to get back into it about 5 years ago and ended up teaching myself how to embroider instead. I instantly fell in love with

the craft. I love how tactile and versatile it is. I really wanted to use it as a medium and had to keep doing it. I also find it very relaxing and meditative. Embroidery allows me to be hands on and creative while forcing me to be present, slow, and mindful which helps with my anxiety.

How would you describe your style of art and the type of pieces you usually make?

I don’t know how I would describe my style.

I feel like I’m still trying to figure that out and develop it more. I guess I’d say that I have a somewhat experimental style at the moment. I keep testing out and exploring different ideas and techniques. I really like textures and making pieces that people are tempted to touch. I’ve also recently

been playing around with combining some paints and inks with my embroidery and trying to make larger pieces as well.

What are some of your favourite subjects and where do you draw a lot of your inspiration from?

I am hugely inspired by nature and the world around me. I’m originally from the US and had never seen Banksia until I arrived in Australia. Now I am obsessed with them! I find them weird and wonderful and they have been a great subject to try to visually interpret and use to experiment with techniques and textures. I like a lot of Australian Native flora and it’s been fascinating to go on walks to try to find more and new inspiration. It’s been a great way to

Alana

I’m originally from the US and had never seen Banksia until I arrived in Australia. Now I am obsessed with them!

try and connect with and learn more about my new home.

What is the process of creating a piece usually like for you?

My husband says I work in sporadic (chaotic?) bursts. Haha. Sometimes I get an idea and I might do a little research or look for references. Then I’ll do some drawings and thumbnails and then I usually do a digital mock up. Sometimes I make mini testers and sometimes I test things in the actual piece itself. People always ask how long it takes me to finish a piece and the honest answer is, I never know. I don’t ever time myself and often I work on multiple pieces or work on them in between other activities.

You also teach workshops and classes. What do you enjoy most about sharing your skills and enthusiasm for the craft with others?

When I teach workshops I get to see others make that same connection with the materials and process that I find so soothing and enjoyable. Being able to pass that on

whether it’s just for the afternoon or the beginning of a lifelong passion is very satisfying. From baby showers to headspace sessions the workshops connect me and other members of the community with each other and give us something to bond over. For me, it’s all about community, connections, and creating together.

You’ve had some fun projects and collaborations going on recently, like Screen 2 Screen, can you tell us a bit about what you’ve been up to?

I’ve been involved in a number of projects recently. I painted a mural for Switched On Seymour in Laurieton. I’ve helped with a number of murals in the past but this was the first of my own design. Additionally, along with Anne De Nooijer (Frannie Pannie Creative), I recycled old street banners from Council into bunting to be used as decorations for the event.

Screen 2 Screen, which you mentioned, was my first time curating an art exhibition. I gathered art from ten local digital artists,

which was displayed in the Hollow Store. The designs were then made available to order as screen prints on t-shirts by BlackDog Ink, a local business.

Where can people check out your work or get in touch?

I have a few pieces in Sunset Gallery’s Summer Show that you can go check out in person or find me on instagram or Facebook @ llamaisthename. If you are interested in a workshop or looking to commission me for an artwork or if you’re a fellow artist who would like to collaborate, you can email me at llamaisthename@outlook.com

Sometimes I make mini testers and sometimes I test things in the actual piece itself. People always ask how long it takes me to finish a piece and the honest answer is, I never know.

There’s

Conveniently located close to Settlement City and with plenty of easy parking, Bellbowrie Park Business Centre is definitely worth a look.

As authorised warranty service agents they repair all Breville and DeLonghi coffee machines and small appliances. Also warranty agents for Kenwood appliances and Electrolux floorcare products. They also repair and stock parts and accessories for domestic and commercial vacuum cleaners. So whether you have a problem

with your coffee machine, food processor, vacuum cleaner, microwave oven, bedside lamp or family heirloom let us fix it. Call in for friendly professional advice from David.

Unit 26/27, Bellbowrie Park Business Centre, Port Macquarie 02 65843838

The Botanic Merchant in Bellbowrie Park Business Centre is a floral superstore! The Botanic Merchant comprises of fresh flowers, plants, homewares, gifts, gourmet treats and furniture. They are specialists in all things floral. From major events to the smallest of posies, The Botanic Merchant provides their customers with the freshest and most beautiful floral selection. Pop in from Tuesday to Saturday....you won’t be disappointed!

They also deliver daily to the Greater Port Macquarie area. 0468 954 654

thebotanicmerchant.com.au

Unit 30, Bellbowrie Park Business Centre, Port Macquarie fb/ thebotanicmerchant ig / thebotanicmerchant info@thebotanicmerchant.com.au

Port Trophies & Badges

Mark, Jim & Holly are continually expanding their knowledge and products now offering event signage, welcome signs, seating plans, place cards, cake toppers & cookie stamps. Supplying quality Awards and Trophies to local businesses, the sporting community, clubs, schools and many more organisations is an integral part of the business. They also supply name badges and ID cards, electrical labelling, directional and safety signage, plaques, giftware such as

engraved glasses, timber boards and pens. There is never a job too big or small, every customer is important to the business.

Unit 22/23, Bellbowrie Park Business Centre, Port Macquarie

Opening Hours 9am til 4pm Monday to Friday Port Macquarie 02 6584 2152 porttrophiesandbadges.com.au

Port Trophies and Badges has been locally owned and operated since it was established in the early 1980’s, with the original owner still working as part of the small team of 3. PORT’S

REGIS

Regis Port Macquarie’s ‘Memory Lane’ program offers residents the chance to interact and have a hands-on experience with a collection of historical items from the area. The program is run by the home’s Lifestyle Assistant, David, who has been building on his collection for the last 20 years. David brings his historical items into the aged care home every fortnight and discusses the history of them with the residents. Highlights have included show bags, milk bars, mix masters, dairy history, trams, vintage cars and bikes, music players and more.

“David brought us a range of mix masters from 1932-1969, all were working and we got to use them – it was amazing,” says resident Jeannie.

“Memory Lane brings back so many memories, everything is flooding back,” shares Alice. Jennifer Phillips, Regis Port Macquarie General Manager, says the initiative provides an opportunity for residents to reminisce and learn about local and historic items.

“Our residents really look forward to David’s Memory Lane activity every fortnight; the immersive experience is second-to-none and it’s wonderful to see the smiles on

our residents’ faces when David runs his program,” says Jennifer. Memory Lane is a unique experience at Regis Port Macquarie and helps support community connection and social interaction. The hands-on demonstrations vary each session and include historic videos, books, old commercials in magazines, community outings and, of course, the items themselves.

Regis offers a diverse range of care options including residential aged care, home care, retirement living, day therapy and day respite. Regis is one of the largest providers of aged care in Australia and cares for more than 7,000 residents each year.

Looki ng for aged care support?

For 30 years, Regis has helped senior Australians find their smile in every day. Our permanent and respite care is shaped around you, helping you to realise your wellbeing goals and lead a meaningful life.

With Regis, you’ll be supported with respect and dignity within our community. Find out more about Regis Port Macquarie by calling 1300 998 100 or visit regis.com.au

regis.com.au | 1300 998 100

10 Sherwood Road,

Port Macquarie NSW 2444

SCAN TO DISCOVER REGIS PORT MACQUARIE

Regis Port Macquarie

Regis Port Macquarie’s trip down Memory Lane. An immersive experience at a local aged care home is bringing local history straight to its residents.

Olivia Riley

Hi Olivia, You have just been awarded the National 9 Year Champion at BJP Physical Culture. For those who aren’t familiar with the sport, what is BJP Physie? BJP Physie is a dance sport that combines different dance styles such as ballet, jazz, hip hop and contemporary together. There are 5 different routines:cardio, floor-drill, relaxed/contemporary, exercise and dance. Physie is the perfect combination of movements designed to increase strength, fitness and flexibility.

How old were you when you began and what did you love about the sport that got you hooked? I started physie when I was 4 years old. I was always copying my older sister’s work and couldn’t wait to start when a preschoolers class started. I love dancing and performing in front of the audience. I love my amazing physie friends who I have class with. There is so many great things about physie! Tell us about the Nationals Competition. What was involved to get there and what happens on the day? Physie girls from all around Australia who placed at their Zone Competition come together for Junior Nationals.

On the day you leave your parents and teachers and head downstairs with all the other girls in your age group. You get put in to heats and then you perform in front of the judges and audience. The judges then select two semi finals and those girls do their routines again. Then the judges select a final and those girls do it one more time. It’s a really fun and exciting day!

What type of training and routine do you follow to develop and get better at your sport? We have classes twice a week where we practice our routines and work on

Winning your age group at Nationals is the highest honour and ahievement for any physie girl and Wauchope Physie Club’s very own Olivia Riley has done just that. Olivia was awarded the 2022 9 Year National Champion.

different techniques that help improve my physie. I also stretch every day and practice at home.

Out of all the dances that you perform which one is your favourite? I love the dance because it’s fun and boppy. It always has some fun moves. I get to smile and just enjoy performing it.

Now that you have won Age National Champion, what is next and what goals do you have for 2023? Next year I have been selected to be on the training video for the 9-10 age group which I am so excited about. My goals for 2023 would be to make Nationals again and win or get a place again.

You attend Wauchope Physie Club. What do you love the most about the Club you attend and why? There are so many reasons why I love Wauchope Physie Club. We have amazing teachers who always encourage us to do our best and make lessons fun. We have a brand new studio which is great to practice in. I love going away with my physie family to competitions and staying after my class and watching the senior girls practice. I am lucky to be part of such a friendly club! If your daughter or even yourself love to dance or have ever wanted to give Physie a try, do so in 2023. Check out Wauchope Physie and join in the fun!

Thanks Olivia and Congratulations.

We have a brand new studio which is great to practice in. I love going away with my physie family to competitions and staying after my class and watching the senior girls practice.

focus contributor.

MONTHLY

FROM MEG + ME with LUSANNA

Tell me, I’m keen to know… what are you hoping 2023 will look like for you? For me, the past few weeks have been interesting. I’ve chatted with so many gorgeous people in store, often sharing their hopes, plans and ideals for the start of 2023.

Many are planning long overdue family holidays, some are looking forward to sitting by the pool for 2 weeks with a good book. Others are making me jealous by sharing their recent overseas holiday pics or upcoming itineraries with me.

For me, this year will be a year of reprioritising. The last three years as a small business owner have been tough. In fact tough is possibly an understatement for many small business owners, but that’s how I am going to describe it for myself.

There’s been the emotional and financial roller coaster to ride, there’s been new skills to learn (or attempt to learn!) and of course as we all know the world of retail no longer relies on nicely merchandising items in store, it also includes filming yourself talking about all aspects of your business and then posting it online for everyone to critique. How things have changed, even in the short 10 years I have been in business. Back when I started you were doing well if you sent an email to your database once every 3 months!

So when I speak of reprioritising, I feel that this year is finally the year that I might hopefully

have some choice in how I want to do things. If I’m being honest, I have spent the last 3 years trying to anticipate things that can’t be anticipated and then reacting to things I didn’t even think were possible. It was exhausting. However, I’ve learned so much about myself, my team and the resilience of people in general. Earlier this year though, I felt that all that stress had finally caught up with me. I was flat, I was feeling physically and mentally unmotivated. So I made a choice. I needed to do something about it, and only I could do that.

Now I know when some people get to this place in life, they jump on a plane to Italy and learn to cook pasta and eat as many carbs as they can, then perhaps they head to Bali and go to a yoga retreat (you’ve read the book and seen the movie I’m sure!) But there was no eat, pray, love moments for me, in fact it was quite the opposite! I stumbled across a Naturopathic Detox program. Now this was a first for me - a detox! I don’t think so! I’m convinced I should have been born French because without bread and butter, cheese and pate washed down with wine I couldn’t possibly exist, or so I thought. But without much more consideration, I jumped in. I ordered the 26 day program. I knew I needed a change and really, was 26 days of

conscious eating too much to ask of myself? If I couldn’t do that, then I really needed help. I was excited to start. My kit arrived in the mail and I read what I could (or more importantly what I couldn’t) eat and started planning. The challenge was liberating and exciting. In fact for me I realised that this process represented so much more than what I could and couldn’t eat.

After the first few days, as I mentally adjusted to my new routine, I began to focus on how I was nourishing my body and in turn how I felt physically, mentally and emotionally while doing it. As the days turned into weeks my mind was clearer, my skin was thankful for the extra water and glowed dewily because of it, even my self confidence grew. My staff commented that I was looking brighter and I felt that I was a better person to be around. The brick I had been carrying in the pit of my stomach had gone. All because I was finally taking care of myself properly.

The past 3 years have taken their toll on us all, it’s true. But we’ve survived. And as we sit looking with anticipation at the cusp of another new year, I’m taking a lesson from my detox. Life is better when we keep it simple and focus on the most important things… Until next time, Lusanna x

Willow

Rissel

BROWS BY WILLOW

Willow Rissel started her business Brows By Willow when she was just 19, and has grown it into a successful and innovative business through hard work, dedication and investing in education and training. This past year has seen her recognised with multiple business awards and we think her achievements are quite extraordinary.

Hi Willow. Can you share with us a bit about your start in the beauty industry?

School was not for me and at the age of 16, I left school to pursue my dream of being a beauty therapist with the goal of opening my own studio. During my apprenticeship at Port Macquarie Day Spa, I regularly updated my skills with "extra" courses, knowing my passion was cosmetic tattooing. By the time I finished my apprenticeship at 18, I had an array of tattooing courses under my belt. When did you decide to start your own business and what was the startup process like for you?

Brows by Willow was born 3.5 years ago, when I was 19. I wanted it unique to other beauty salons with the main focus and drive built purely around cosmetic tattooing. I knew cosmetic tattooing was in growing demand and whilst I specialise in cosmetic tattooing, we have expanded to also offer many other beauty services with my amazing skin specialist Jenna. I was very lucky to have had the opportunity to start my own small business with Sonny, from the Painted Horse Tattoo Studio in Laurieton, in one of his rooms. I concentrated on lash extensions and cosmetic tattooing.I didn't expect my business to become so busy straight

up. Within a week of opening I was booked out 2 weeks ahead. After about a year of saving, gaining clientele and business experience, I was confident that I could do this in my own studio, back in Port Macquarie. I found the perfect spot in March 2020, just as COVID hit. Through the lockdown I concentrated on doing more courses and preparing the studio for when It opened. I studied and did as much as I could on my own in getting the studio ready. I am lucky to have a very supporting family and a trade Dad who fitted out the shop. As soon as I opened it was a hit. I have been extremely lucky and have been welcomed into this industry with amazing clients.

How has your business evolved over the years?

It's been a busy few years at Brows by Willow. I have grown my small business into my wholesome empire by smashing out professional goals and milestones. I have enhanced my previous beauty knowledge and expertise by continuing my professional development and further training in fibroblast and cosmetic tattooing. I up-skilled my brow and lip tattooing and commenced non-laser tattoo removal, facial fibroblasting and HIFU. I have finished my Teaching and Assessing Certificate allowing me to teach, and in the last 6 months opened the Brows by Willow Academy.

I have also increased the work productivity and workforce employment by expanding the shop to accommodate for more services and staff. I have built another room inside the shop for my Beauty Therapist Jenna to offer her amazing skills and services. Jenna is an amazing skin tech and make up artist. She provides the most optimal results for our clients in treatments such as specialised facials, LED light therapy, microdermabrasion, facial peels, waxing, tinting and so much more. We have a new therapist Leah starting in January and we are so excited to share our journey with her. There are exciting things coming to Brows by Willow. What are some of the things you feel have contributed to your success?

My work is my purpose, my driving force and the reason I wake up motivated everyday. I'm passionate about being creative and helping others to feel more confident about themselves and this passion keeps pushing me to achieve bigger and better things. Regularly attending professional learning and researching new products to consistently deliver high quality services and standards that is expected at Brows by Willow. I also think customer service is key to drawing people in, we work hard on this and I feel we are always smiling and giving that positive vibe. I love our studio and the enjoyment it brings to our amazing clients.

We strive to deliver the best possible results and make a difference in their lives. This is a major factor to our success.

The support and guidance of my family has definitely contributed to my success. They support me always and have always encouraged me in everything I have done. I also have the most loyal staff and friends. Jenna has been by my side for 18 months and has become a very valued friend and staff member and of course Mel from Pure Lash, my sidekick, my rock and best friend and without her this journey would not be as fun.

The highlight for awards this year would have to be the Winner of the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion of Brows and Lashes. What a night at The Star, again in Sydney.

Business and Beauty Industry categories where we ended up winning the Micro Business Category and representing the Mid North Coast in Sydney. It was an honour to be named alongside businesses who have been established for many years and be recognised as a strong business.

at a young age. If you have a passion for a chosen career and set your heart and mind on achieving it, you will achieve it.

What are some of your plans and goals for Brows By Willow in 2023?

You have been recognised with some business awards in 2022, can you tell us a bit about them and what it has meant to you to receive this recognition?

A major achievement for us was being a semi finalist in the Australian Beauty and Tattoo Awards for cosmetic brows, make up and rising star. We were super excited and honoured to be even acknowledged in these prestigious awards. Jenna and her amazing work ended up runner up in the event make up section.

We also made the finalist of the Regional and Mid North Coast Business Awards for Outstanding Young Business leader, Micro

The highlight for awards this year would have to be the Winner of the Australian Women's Small Business Champion of Brows and Lashes. What a night at The Star, again in Sydney with over 7,500 entries and 25 finalists. To be announced the winner was overwhelming, scary, amazing and one of the high points of the year. It definitely makes me more passionate and keeps me driven while continuing to push me to be successful in business. It feels good to be seen.

You have achieved a lot for someone in your early 20’s, what advice would you give to other young entrepreneurs looking at starting a business?

My advice would be stick to your guns,ask for help, find your passion and learn, learn, learn. Finish a course then do another. Education is so important and can be fun and exciting when you love what you do. Realise that you can be successful, even if you leave formal schooling

My business goals for 2023 is to continue doing what I love every day and giving each and every client the best cosmetic and beauty results and experience. I will continue to increase my own and my staff's education and training so that we can continue to provide the amazing results that every client deserves. I want to build on my staff and my skills with new knowledge and continue to promote and expand my beauty therapist Jenna's and new staff member Leah's role, incorporating new and exciting services for our community. We will be introducing new treatments including carbon facials, tattoo removal and x sculpt, a non invasive and painless muscle building and fat loss treatment. I want to keep stimulating growth and continuing sharing my space with Pure Lash.

I have spent the first half of 2022 gaining my qualifications in the Teaching and Assessing Course. This has enabled me to add another exciting venture for 2023 to concentrate on, my Brows by Willow Academy to promote and develop my courses. Being an educator is a privilege that I am excited about, sharing and helping people begin their dream.

I am so excited for the future of my salon and cannot wait to meet future clients and students.

Thanks Willow

focus contributor.

FROM MISS MOTIVATOR with RACHEL LEMAN

hilst this is an important thing to do, it is something that could be done at any time you feel that you are off track with your health and fitness goals.  You don’t need to wait, and you don’t need to do it just because it is a new year! This January I encourage you to enjoy life!  Resist the temptation to beat up on yourself or set unrealistic goals and simply enjoy your holidays! Move in a way that feels good for you from a holistic point of view. Spend your time doing the things that support you and your loved ones, the things that fill your cup and make you feel good. Spend less time focusing on the “shoulds and coulds” and just enjoy your time with family and friends the way you want to. Maybe that does involve setting new health and fitness goals for the year or maybe it doesn’t – either way there should be no judgement, no pressure. Top tips for holiday time top ups

WGet outdoors and into nature.

• Getting into the ocean can really help to calm the nervous system, lower stress and improve mental health.

• Take the family for a beach walk (this can be a nice family time thing to do for young and old).

Enjoy the rest from the hustle and bustle of busy working weeks.

Use the holiday period to recharge your batteries.  Take some down time and chill, don’t rush around if you don’t need to.  Rest and recovery is just as important as hard work, so remember to enjoy your downtime. Use the time to help older relatives get active too.

• As we age physical activity is just as important as it ever was.  Helping our older relatives to be active is important for maintaining muscle mass and quality, bone density, blood pressure and blood sugar to name just a few reasons.  Older adults often really enjoy the socialising that comes with being active with others.

Focus on what you enjoy.

• Don’t get caught up with what others are doing. Be true to yourself and the things you enjoy. Your leisure time belongs to you so enjoy it the way you want to.

Some ideas to get the whole family active this summer:-

• Dinner at the beach with a bit of frisbee toss,

• Picnic at a park or reserve and a gentle walk around the park,

• Pre-dinner afternoon walks along the beach,

• Early morning swims at the local pool or beach.

Does your Mum or Grandma deserve an extra pressie after all her efforts this Christmas Season? Why not surprise her with a 1 month voucher for Miss Motivator and for January only, we will throw in an extra MONTH FREE! Stay strong, Rach x

Welcome to 2023! For many people both young and old the Christmas/New Year period is a time of reflection and planning for the new year.

Spend less time focusing on the “shoulds and coulds” and just enjoy your time with family and friends the way you want to.

Melbourne Cosmetic Injector has moved to Port Macquarie

Jessika Korostenski is a Registered Nurse with Post Graduate studies in Cosmetic Nursing. She has been injecting for 9 years and nursing for 14 years, with previous Emergency and Cardiac experience. She was also a Victorian Cosmetic Trainer for an internationally renowned pharmaceutical company and presented and taught facial anatomical structures and safe techniques to both Doctors and Nurses around Australia.

Jessika was born and raised in Melbourne, but earlier this year she made a big move and relocated to beautiful Port Macquarie with her family.

Jessika specialises in Anti-wrinkle, Dermal fillers, PDO Mono threads and Bio remodelling. Her passion is to create natural looking results that help you regain your confidence. She believes that consultation is a fundamental key to achieving great results whilst making her clients feel valued and cared for. You can find Injectables by Jessika in two clinic locations, in Wauchope & Port Macquarie.

Hi Chitra, please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us how you came to call Port Macquarie home.

My name is Chitra but my friends call me Maya and I am the founder of Frangipani Hair and Beauty Spa. I have lived in the Port Macquarie Region for 3 years after spending 22 years in Sydney followed by 8 years managing my own B and B retreat in the Blue Mountains. Drawn to the natural beauty of the Mid North Coast I was initially unsure how I would fit in, but I have to say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I love the laid back lifestyle, stunning beaches, fresh air, and temperate climate. The local community has been very welcoming, and I am proud to call this beautiful place home. You have just opened Frangipani Day Spa; can you tell us where your passion for the health and beauty industry came from?

Fortunate enough to have an island upbringing I have experienced first-hand the benefits of holistic self-care. There is a direct relationship between nourishing mind, body, and soul and mental wellness. Life can be busy, overwhelming, exhausting, and stressful, even more so since COVID19. My true passion is to bring a paradisal environment into the local area and provide clients with empowering beauty treatments using certified organic skin care and hair care products that go beyond the outer surface

to impact inner health and well-being. When we allow ourselves to hit the pause button and recharge, we can come back at life with a new energy, in turn leading us to be more productive in other areas of our lives. You can never be the best version of yourself if you aren’t taking care of yourself. In todays busy world it is more important than ever to take time out and prioritise self-care. What is unique about your spa and what are you hoping to bring to your customers?

Our uniqueness is our ability to provide luxury spa, skin, and hair treatments all under the one roof. We bring the ultimate indulgent pampering experience to our clients using certified organic 100% Australian-made products in an island paradise environment so you can enjoy a 5-star luxury experience locally without the stress of having to travel abroad. We are proud to be offering our signature “Traditional Indonesian Hair Cream Bath,” an ancient ritual stemming from the local Indonesian culture that has been passed down through generations and is the secret to maintaining sleek, shiny hair.  Succumb to total tranquillity with a mind-melting scalp massage followed by a steamy head wrap to help ingredients penetrate the hair and scalp. As the nutrients sink in, an upper back, neck, shoulder, and arm massage helps to accelerate blood circulation in the head, and a final rinse leaves you feeling lighter and relieves stress on the mind.

All our skincare and haircare products are proudly Australian made and owned with100% natural ingredients that are nutritionally rich. It was important to me to choose eco-friendly products with pure organic certified ingredients that are not only beneficial to our clients health but do not leave a harmful footprint on the environment. Our products smell absolutely amazing and are completely safe to use on the skin, scalp, and hair. They are also extremely beneficial in alleviating symptoms associated with stress and tension.

What are you looking forward to most in 2023?

I’m so excited about 2023! This has been a dream of mine for many years, and I have been overwhelmed with the support we have received from the local community thus far.

I am looking forward most to establishing life long customer relationships by going the extra mile and providing an exceptional level of service to our valued clients. The ongoing success of the business is all about nurturing our customers and ensuring they receive a professional, positive and personalised experience to remember and they will refer our services and return to our exquisite Day Spa time and time again.

Thanks, Chitra.

Can you please tell us about the products you use and sell and why you choose them?

FRANGIPANI DAY SPA

Visit the experienced team at Port Macquarie Orthodontics for your child’s free orthodontic assessment.

in2023! Floss Up

hile most people make a habit of brushing their teeth twice a day, flossing is a lot less common - despite your dentist recommending you floss at least once a day. The reason oral health professionals everywhere are quick to advise patients to get flossing is that this quick and simple activity can provide a wide range of benefits to your oral healthincluding protecting your gums and teeth, avoiding cavities, and even reducing your risk of developing other health conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, pre-term delivery and some forms of cancer.

So, let's take some time to explore the importance of flossing and why you should be making it a daily part of your oral hygiene routine.

Why do I need to floss as well as brush my teeth?

While brushing your teeth can help to remove debris and plaque, brushing alone can’t reach all the areas of your teeth - in fact, nearly half the surface area of your teeth actually lies between your teeth.

It’s easy for food to get trapped in the gaps between your teeth, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria and plaque to develop. Unlike brushing, flossing can allow you to get into these gaps and remove the bacteria-causing debris.

WWhat are the benefits of flossing?

Flossing protects your gums, your teeth and your smile.

If plaque and bacteria build up between your teeth, they can start to irritate the gum tissue. When left untreated, this can eventually lead to a change in the PH of the area, and this can create an environment for bacteria to flourish. A range of oral health conditions, including gingivitis - a periodontal disease that can cause the gums to become red and puffy, and bleed easily. This is the early stage of periodontal disease also known as gum disease.

Aside from irritating your gums, bacteria that develops between your teeth can also weaken and destroy the tooth’s enamel - the protective layer that coats the surface of the tooth. This can lead to the development of a cavity.

By making a habit of flossing once a day, you’ll prevent this plaque and bacteria from building up, reducing your risk of gum disease, infection, tooth decay and keep your teeth fighting fit for life. What’s more, regular flossing will also help to keep your teeth looking clean and bright by removing unsightly plaque and food particles.

Flossing can reduce the risk of other diseases as your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body and the presence of harmful bacteria here can pose a risk to your overall health. Research now shows the bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, increasing

your risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer and pre-term delivery in pregnancy.

Flossing only takes a few minutes, but this simple action can help reduce the risk of infection and have a positive effect on your overall physical health.

How do I floss my teeth correctly?

Now you know the importance of flossing, you might be wondering about the right technique to ensure you’re getting the full benefit of daily flossing.

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to the correct flossing technique:-

• Wind about 40cm of floss around each of your middle fingers, leaving a few centimetres in the middle to floss with.

• Holding the floss tautly between your thumbs and index fingers, slide it gently up and down between your teeth.

• Gently curve the floss around the base of each tooth, ensuring you go beneath the gumline.

• Never snap or force the floss, as this can damage the delicate gum tissue.

If you have questions about flossing or need more advice on how to floss correctly, talk to the friendly team at Sundial Dental on 6583 3533 or stop by at one of our four friendly locations today. Also don't forget School Holidays is the perfect time for your family's dental appointment. sundialdental.com.au

Meredith HINDS

How long have you been a member of Port Macquarie Rowing Club and how did you first come to be involved?

I have been a member of Port Macquarie Rowing Club for 28 years. I was invited by a friend who was trying to encourage women to join the club. About four of us started but I was the only one of that group who stuck!

What are your roles at the club?

I am currently the Club Secretary. I am also involved in coaching. I usually coach adult beginners.

I am also an occasional competitor in Masters level racing and a keen recreational rower. Can you tell us a bit about the club, how many members do you have and what are some of the roles they play?

We currently have 58 members on our books. Most are recreational and social rowers as well as some keen racers. They range in age from 12 to 82. Some people prefer single sculling,

but most prefer crewed boats (doubles, quads, fours and eights), and most people row in a mixture of boats and crews. In addition to active rowers, we have several qualified boat race officials and coaches and there are plenty of other things for people to do, including helping maintain the fleet and the premises, administering the club and providing canteen facilities at regattas.

How often do you train or meet?

I train about 3-4 times a week, depending on the weather and season. There are members rowing most days of the week, usually early in the morning when conditions on the river are more conducive to rowing (i.e.before the wind gets up). Are there many members that race in competitions or are they mostly recreational?

We currently have 58 members on our books. Most are recreational and social rowers as well as some keen racers. They range in age from 12 to 82.

We have certainly had a history of active and successful racing. COVID caused the cancellation of many regattas in 2020, and flooding in both 2020 and 2021, but the regatta program now seems to be getting back to normal. We are starting to travel to regattas again and some of our junior rowers, particularly Tom Jenkins, have been very successful at recent regattas.

What activities or events do you regularly participate in?

Coming up is the Taree Summer Regatta jointly hosted by the Manning River Rowing Club and the Port Macquarie Rowing Club and held at Taree. This is one of the largest regattas in the state held over 3 days. In 2023 it is taking place on 13,14 and 15 January. There are almost 100 races including a spectacular

Meredith Hinds has been a member of the Port Macquarie Rowing Club for about 28 years and has shared with us a bit about the club and what she loves about being a part of it all.

PORT MACQUARIE ROWING CLUB

mixed eight race on Saturday lunchtime, which has had up to 17 crews lined up across the Manning River. Very exciting to watch! Other regular events include the 3 Rivers Mini Marathon which is a 25km row or paddle from Telegraph Point to Port Macquarie Rowing Club to be held on Sunday 27 August –open to all non-powered craft and now in its 15th year.

We also invariably attend the NSW Masters Regatta – usually held at SIRC but occasionally in the regions (Grafton or Taree) and held in May. In addition during the summer season there are regattas conducted by the Central District Rowing Association (covering the area from Port Macquarie to the Central Coast) held approximately fortnightly, as well as almost weekly regattas in Sydney. What have you enjoyed about being part of the club?

I enjoy the camaraderie and friendship but also the challenge of trying to perfect my

rowing and the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful river environment, including a bit of bird watching and observing dolphins, rays, turtles and occasionally spinner sharks and other rarities on the river.

My day job can be quite stressful and demanding and I find rowing, which generally requires full concentration, to be a welcome respite from work.

Who can join, and how would they go about getting in touch?

Anyone aged 11 and over (assuming they are big enough for the equipment and can swim 100 metres in rowing attire) is welcome to come and try on a Saturday throughout the year and see if rowing is for them. Contact us at Portrowing@gmail.com or come down to the club at 68 Hibbard Drive on a Saturday morning between 7am and 8.30am and we’ll almost certainly be there unless we are away at a regatta..

There are almost 100 races including a spectacular mixed eight race on Saturday lunchtime, which has had up to 17 crews lined up across the Manning River.

LEGAL Light

FROM PRIEST LEGAL with JEREMY BRIGDEN

Love thy neighbour by Jeremy Brigden, BA LLB.

“Everybody needs good neighbours” has a familiar ring to it but not everyone is a good neighbour. As the Rolling Stones song “Neighbours” complains “Have I got neighbours ringing my doorbells all day and all night? Ladies, have I got crazies? Screamin young babies No peace and no quiet”.

Unfortunately, neighbourhood disputes are common and have the potential to escalate into much more serious situations with physical altercations and police involvement. What are some of the issues that arise between neighbours and what are the solutions that the law provides?

1. Fences

Generally, neighbours must equally share the costs of a fence that is typical of fencing in the area.

The Dividing Fences Act 1991 regulates the type of fence and responsibility for the costs of the fence if neighbours don’t agree. If parties do not agree, a Notice to Carry out Fencing Work can be served on the adjoining owner and if there is still no agreement, either party can apply to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for a fencing order.

2. Trees

Believe it or not, there exists in NSW a Trees (Disputes between Neighbours) Act 2006. Under the Act, the Court can order a neighbour’s tree to be pruned if the tree is causing or is likely to cause damage to property or injury. If a tree is merely blocking sunlight or obstructing views, you have no legal right to get an order for it to be cut down.

You do not need to seek approval to prune a tree (and its roots) if they are on your side of the boundary. As Justice Best said in the 1823 decision of The Earl of Lonsdale v Nelson - “If another man’s tree overhangs my land, I may lawfully cut the overhanging branches”.

3. Dogs

Although little Fluffles only weighs 1.4 kg and looks like a cottonball, she may have the lungs of a werewolf.

Under the Companion Animals Act 1998, a “nuisance dog” is one which consistently roams, makes persistent, excessive noise, endangers people, repeatedly defecates on private property or causes substantial damage.

Interestingly, there are less stringent definitions for “nuisance” cats which will come as no surprise to anyone, as we all know these anarchic creatures are a law unto themselves.

If a neighbour’s dog is a nuisance, talk to your neighbour first. If that does not work, you can report the dog to the Local Council, who will issue a Notice, if it is warranted.

4. Entry on Inclosed Lands

The Inclosed Lands Protection Act 1901, prevents you from entering private property without lawful reason. As is the case with some archaic legal instruments, this Act contains an amusing curiosity. Section 7 makes specific provision for any owner to ‘destroy’ any trespassing goats! So, if your neighbour’s goat jumps the fence it’s ‘fair game’ [only goats though!].

Such amusing provisions pop up in the law from time to time. According to an ancient English bylaw, Welshmen are still prohibited from entering Chester before the sun rises, and have to leave again before the sun goes down. That same law, which has never been repealed, confers upon the good people of Chester the right to shoot a Welshman on a Sunday inside the city walls, as long as it is after midnight and with a crossbow.

As is the case with almost any dispute, no dispute is beyond sensible resolution between the parties themselves acting reasonably. If you are unable to resolve your dispute or you would like assistance to resolve it, contact me or any of our experienced team at Priest Legal at our offices in Wauchope or Port Macquarie.

TOP ACHIEVERS

TOP ACHIEVERS

• Youssef Wahba – ATAR of 99.20

• Youssef Wahba – ATAR of 99.20

• Keiley Bucton – ATAR of 98.60

• Keiley Bucton – ATAR of 98.60

• Christopher Green –ATAR of 98.55

• Christopher Green –ATAR of 98.55

• Alexander Seppi – ATAR of 98.40

• Alexander Seppi – ATAR of 98.40

• Finn Carey – ATAR of 97.45

• Finn Carey – ATAR of 97.45

• Laura Reynolds – ATAR of 96.65

• Laura Reynolds – ATAR of 96.65

• Halle Tree – ATAR of 94.65

• Halle Tree – ATAR of 94.65

• Claire McIntosh – ATAR of 94.40

• Claire McIntosh – ATAR of 94.40

• Lana Ostrowskyj – ATAR of 93.90

• Lana Ostrowskyj – ATAR of 93.90

• Jake Murnain – ATAR of 93.35

• Jake Murnain – ATAR of 93.35

• Eloise Miller – ATAR of 92.85 • Keanu Bowman – ATAR of 92.20 • Hayley McDermott – ATAR of 91.60 • Andrew Olsen – ATAR of 91.20 • Riley McCann – ATAR of 90.75

• Eloise Miller – ATAR of 92.85

• Keanu Bowman – ATAR of 92.20

• Hayley McDermott – ATAR of 91.60

• Andrew Olsen – ATAR of 91.20

• Riley McCann – ATAR of 90.75

• Jazmin Worthing – ATAR of 90.40 • Jasmine King – ATAR of 90.00

• Jazmin Worthing – ATAR of 90.40

• Jasmine King – ATAR of 90.00

Congratulations Class of 2022

Congratulations Class of 2022

From the Principal — Mr Terry Muldoon

From the Principal — Mr Terry Muldoon

2022 has been a challenging year, filled with uncertainty across the globe. Despite the added stressors of conflict and the ongoing pandemic, the 2022 Year 12 cohort have refused to give in to despair or look for excuses for giving up.

2022 has been a challenging year, filled with uncertainty across the globe. Despite the added stressors of conflict and the ongoing pandemic, the 2022 Year 12 cohort have refused to give in to despair or look for excuses for giving up.

Instead they have come together as a cohesive and supportive group, determined to develop their knowledge and skills so that they are able to launch themselves into the next phase of their lives.

Their individual and group results in this year’s Higher School Certificate bear testament to their talent, hard work and resilience. They have taken advantage of the experience, knowledge and dedication offered by their teachers and the support of their families to turn uncertainty into success and opportunity.

Instead they have come together as a cohesive and supportive group, determined to develop their knowledge and skills so that they are able to launch themselves into the next phase of their lives. Their individual and group results in this year’s Higher School Certificate bear testament to their talent, hard work and resilience. They have taken advantage of the experience, knowledge and dedication offered by their teachers and the support of their families to turn uncertainty into success and opportunity.

Many of their efforts have already been recognised through their nominations for best in state showcases across the curriculum. The results they have received and the offers of places in the most prestigious courses in some of Australia’s best universities bear testament to their willingness to convert talent into opportunity through hard work.

We are proud of their efforts and wish them well in the next phase of their lives.

Many of their efforts have already been recognised through their nominations for best in state showcases across the curriculum. The results they have received and the offers of places in the most prestigious courses in some of Australia’s best universities bear testament to their willingness to convert talent into opportunity through hard work. We are proud of their efforts and wish them well in the next phase of their lives.

“The harder you work for something, the greater you will feel when you achieve it.”

“The harder you work for something, the greater you will feel when you achieve it.”

A message of congratulations from the Head of Secondary School — Mrs Emma Bylsma

The School Council, Principal and staff of St Columba Anglican School wish to acknowledge the excellent Higher School Certificate results of the Class of 2022. The Class of 2022, our 16th Higher School Certificate candidature, have upheld the proud academic tradition of the School, building on the achievements of those who came before them.

In 2022, we had 66 entries in the Distinguished Achievers list from 27 students. This year’s cohort achieved excellent results across a range of Higher School Certificate subjects. Approximately 33% of student results appeared in the Distinguished Achievers List. Among these impressive results were Christopher Green in 6 subjects, Keiley Bucton and Laura Reynolds in 5 subjects, and Alexander Seppi and Youssef Wahba in 4 subjects. These results saw SCAS rank 101st in the top 150 schools in the state (in the Sydney Morning Herald 2022 HSC School Rankings).

The School Council, Principal and staff of St Columba Anglican School wish to acknowledge the excellent Higher School Certificate results of the Class of 2022. The Class of 2022, our 16th Higher School Certificate candidature, have upheld the proud academic tradition of the School, building on the achievements of those who came before them. In 2022, we had 66 entries in the Distinguished Achievers list from 27 students. This year’s cohort achieved excellent results across a range of Higher School Certificate subjects. Approximately 33% of student results appeared in the Distinguished Achievers List. Among these impressive results were Christopher Green in 6 subjects, Keiley Bucton and Laura Reynolds in 5 subjects, and Alexander Seppi and Youssef Wahba in 4 subjects. These results saw SCAS rank 101st in the top 150 schools in the state (in the Sydney Morning Herald 2022 HSC School Rankings).

Some subject results of note include: 90% of our Drama students achieved in the top two Bands; 75% of Textiles and Design students achieved in the top two Bands with two students placing in the top 10 for the state, with Eloise Miller ranked 6th and Keiley Bucton ranked 10th; 90% of Visual Arts students achieved in the top two Bands; 100% of Music 1 students achieved in the top two Bands; 100% of Hospitality students achieved in the top two Bands; 75% of Design and Technology students achieved in the top two Bands; 60% of Dance students achieved in the top two Bands; two thirds of students achieved in the top two Bands in Advanced English; 75% of Extension 1 Mathematics students achieved in the top two Bands; 69% of Advanced Mathematics students achieved in the top two Bands. Fantastic achievements from our Class of 2022.

Some subject results of note include: 90% of our Drama students achieved in the top two Bands; 75% of Textiles and Design students achieved in the top two Bands with two students placing in the top 10 for the state, with Eloise Miller ranked 6th and Keiley Bucton ranked 10th; 90% of Visual Arts students achieved in the top two Bands; 100% of Music 1 students achieved in the top two Bands; 100% of Hospitality students achieved in the top two Bands; 75% of Design and Technology students achieved in the top two Bands; 60% of Dance students achieved in the top two Bands; two thirds of students achieved in the top two Bands in Advanced English; 75% of Extension 1 Mathematics students achieved in the top two Bands; 69% of Advanced Mathematics students achieved in the top two Bands. Fantastic achievements from our Class of 2022.

A world of opportunities...

A message of congratulations from the Head of Secondary School — Mrs Emma Bylsma

A world of opportunities...

While farms are exciting places for children, it is vital to keep them safe, especially around farm vehicles – whether they live on the property or are just visiting. For many, quad bikes are an essential part of life on the land – however, they’re not appropriate for all members of the family or for untrained visitors. Tragically, 23 children have been killed in quad bike incidents in Australia since 2011. Children have suffered catastrophic head injuries or were suffocated under the weight of a 400kg quad bike in a roll over. Other deaths are caused by ejection, resulting in severe head, abdominal, chest or spinal injuries.

On average, over 80 children in NSW are hospitalised each year with serious injuries from quad bike use. Reports reveal that

many of these incidents happened at low speed and when the child was carried as a passenger. The NSW government is urging the community to keep kids under 16 off adult sized quad bikes – particularly over the holidays as families visit properties where quad bikes may be present. Mark McLean, Regional Inspector with SafeWork NSW has seen many fatalities involving quad bikes and says there can be fatal consequences to not heeding this warning.

“It’s always more difficult when children are

involved. It has a devastating and long-term impact on the family” Inspector McLean said. “The most important advice I can give is to keep children off adult sized quad bikes – even as a passenger” Inspector McLean said.

Manufacturers warn that children under the age of 16 are not permitted to ride or be a passenger on an adult sized quad bike. This warning is clearly labelled on the quad bike.

For more information visit safework.nsw.gov.au or call 13 10 50.

Quad bikes and kids are a deadly mix,

Say no to kids on adult quad bikes

Tragically, 23 children have been killed in quad bike incidents in Australia since 2011.

On average, over 80 children in NSW are hospitalised each year following quad bike incidents.

Most deaths and injuries happen at low speed and on flat ground.

Quad bike deaths and injuries are preventable.

Keep kids under 16 off adult-sized quad bikes – even as a passenger.

Visit safework.nsw.gov.au and search ‘quad bikes’ or call 13 10 50 for more information on child quad bike safety.

even as a passenger.

KEEP KIDS UNDER 16 OFF ADULT SIZED QUAD BIKES – EVEN AS A PASSENGER.

Congratulations CLASS OF 2022

ST AGNES’ CATHOLIC PARISH STUDENTS SHINE

Harley Sirovica is the 2022 MacKillop College Dux with an amazing ATAR of 99.8. Harley credited his teachers for his success, paying special tribute to his English teacher who helped him achieve 19th place out of the 30000 plus students across NSW who studied English Standard in the 2022 HSC. Harley was also a NSW All Rounder receiving Band 6 in all his subjects. His advice to future HSC students was to keep giving teachers work and responding to their feedback. Harley is now looking forward to studying medicine.

Lucy Kay was over the moon with her HSC results and is hoping it will be enough to allow her to fulfill her dream to become a doctor. Scoring marks over 90 in five of her six subjects Lucy showed that consistent effort and time across the board was key to her success. Lucy said tapping into teacher expertise and their dedication to helping students achieve their potential was her tip for future students.

College Captain and Student of the Year

Dominica Toohey is on top of the world after receiving a second place in NSW for Textiles and Design. Her major project was nominated for the HSC Texstyle showcase and her Band 6 result contributed to an outstanding ATAR of 96.65. Dominica also represented the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Hockey team during her HSC year, saying the balance and keeping involved in hobbies and interests was an important factor in her success.

First Place in Diocese HSC Nominations

Dee MacKenzie

Aboriginal Studies

Charlie Sprague Aboriginal Studies Emily Moloney Community & Family Studies

Isobel Pares

English Extension 2, Studies of Religion 2

Harley Sirovica

Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2, Physics

Dominica Toohey Textiles and Design

MacKillop College pmaclism.catholic.edu.au

Dominica Toohey | MacKillop College

Lucy Kay | MacKillop College Harley Sirovica | MacKillop College

...on outstanding results in the NSW Higher School Certificate

St Joseph’s Regional College is immensely proud of their Dux of 2022 Alvin Benny. He received an ATAR of 98.1 as well as receiving Band 6 results in Mathematics Advanced, Software Design and Development, Studies of Religion 2 unit. Alvin plans to study a Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering at the University of Newcastle in 2023. Alvin commented that the supportive staff and beautiful school environment enabled him to feel appreciated and encouraged to achieve his best in all aspects of life.

St Joseph’s Regional College wishes to congratulate Samuel Kobelke as runner up to Dux in 2022. Samuel received an ATAR of 97.75 and Band 6 results in Mathematics Extension 1 and Mathematics Extension

2. Samuel plans to study a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Dalyell Scholars including Mathematical Science) at the University of Sydney in 2023. Congratulations Samuel on an outstanding HSC Year.

Congratulations to William McCoubrie who achieved first place in Design and Technology as well as having his major project nominated for Shape. William is a member of the Senior Student Leadership team and a College prefect. He was also the recipient of the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award and plans to study a Bachelor of Design in 2023. Well done William on your fantastic achievements in your HSC year.

Samuel Kobelke

JULES J A M I E S ON

Can you tell us what your role is at Headspace and how long you have been part of the team there?

My current role at Headspace Port Macquarie is the Community Engagement Coordinator. I have been a part of the team since September 2013, so going on 10 years!

Could you share with our readers a bit about what Headspace does and provides in the community?

Absolutely. Headspace Port Macquarie is part of the National Youth Mental Health Foundation. We are a holistic health service offering free counselling, psychology, and support to young people 12-25 years, their families and friends in the Port MacquarieHastings Region. With a focus on early

intervention, our centre provides a safe, confidential, non-judgmental space where young people can be themselves. Our multidisciplinary team consists of mental health coaches, mental health clinicians, social workers, psychologists, a tele-psychiatrist, GP and practice nurse. Together we help young people through challenges that may relate to school, work, study, drugs and alcohol, sexual and physical health, relationships and more. Our centre provides psycho-education workshops on specific topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation and intelligence, assertive communication, selfesteem, resilience and stress management. Complementary to these we have social inclusion activities that include art, guitar, stand-up paddle boarding, fitness, anime and LGBTQIA+ programs.

Exclusively for parents and carers we are now offering single-session family therapy, and in the new year a new Family Wellbeing and Support Group.

We also offer volunteer, leadership and advocacy opportunities to young people through our renowned Youth Reference Group (YRG), and for our over 25’s through our Family and Friends Reference Group (FFRG). In addition, we offer free mental health training and education to the community through schools, sporting clubs, local businesses and organisations.

Who can access support through Headspace and how would they go about it?

Headspace is a free service for 12-25 year olds. Our front of house team are amazing and can answer any of your questions or

Headspace Port Macquarie is celebrating 10 years this month and Jules Jamieson has been part of the team there almost since the beginning. She shares her experiences of what Headspace provides and what she has learnt through her time there.

concerns. To make an appointment with a clinician or healthcare provider give them a call during business hours on: 02 6588 7300.

Headspace Port Macquarie is celebrating 10 years this month, can you tell us a bit about its beginnings in Port and some of your achievements over the years?

Looking back over the years it’s quite amazing to reflect on what we have achieved. We started out as a small team of less than 10 people – my role didn’t even exist back then. We now have a team of almost 20 and to date we have seen over 4,000 young people, which equates to our clinicians conducting 28,195 occasions of service - pretty cool

when you break it down like that. Mind you, that doesn’t include the young people, families, and community members we have reached through our community events and activities that promote social, cultural, and environmental wellbeing. Some of our past notable events were: Mind Your Art, an art Competition and Exhibition at the Glasshouse (2017), Rock N Ride, an interstate charity motorcycle ride raising mental health awareness (2013). The Wayne Jackson Wellness Paddle - a stand-up paddle boarding event on the Hastings River (2019), Amazing Race for your Headspace (2019). More recently we hosted the Wauchope Cosplay Festival and Port Macquarie’s first ever Queer Prom.

How will you be marking the occasion and celebrating the 10 year anniversary? We are super excited to mark this momentous occasion with a mini music festival held at Wave Bowl’s -The Terrace. We are still in the planning stages but it is set to be an awesome night of live music, food, pop-up vintage stalls and of course some bowling. Date is set for Saturday March 4th, 2023, from 5pm. It will be an all-ages event so save the date and stay tuned via social media for more details.

What have you learnt in your time working with Headspace?

For me personally, the biggest stand out is learning to value and appreciate young people. Young people are often misunderstood but when you get them out of their usual environment you get to see how intelligent, creative, and inspiring they are. I hadn’t worked exclusively with youth prior to becoming involved at Headspace, so to be given an opportunity to influence young lives in a positive way has been an absolute privilege.

Additionally, and the fortunate perk of my role in community engagement is the amazing people I have met over the past 10

years. Too many to name, they have certainly embraced and reinforced my grand ideas in the name of youth mental health, and as the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child”. Without the wonderful support from local businesses, government, not-forprofit organisations, schools, uni and TAFE and everything in between we would not be here, and we would not have had the desired outcomes we had hoped for.

What hopes do you have for Headspace and the community in Port over the next 10 years?

We are really paving the way in the youth mental health space, not only by providing quality clinical care, but we are involved in research, development, and youth advocacy at state and national levels. Our team believe in the power of youth, they are at the heart of what we do, and our hope is that by continuing to learn from them, their families and friends we can expand our services to ensure every young person has access to supports that empower them to be mentally healthy, engaged in their community and live fulfilling, meaningful lives.

Where can people find out more or get in touch?

Headspace Port Macquarie is located in the heart of the CBD at 12 Short St. Our office is open Monday-Friday. Feel free to drop into our centre to say hi, get a tour or to find out more. For the latest news, resources and events, information can be found on our website or social media.

headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/portmacquarie/ headspaceportmacquarie headspaceportmacquarie

For all clinical enquiries. 02 65887300 or headspacePM@each.com.au

For information on how to get involved in volunteering at headspace, I can be contacted directly at julie.jamieson@each.com.au . We are currently recruiting for the 2023 YRG, and looking for skilled volunteers to run art and our junior LGBTQIA+ social group.

Thanks Jules.

Young people are often misunderstood but when you get them out of their usual environment you get to see how intelligent, creative, and inspiring they are

Enrol now for Semester 1, 2023.

At

Ready to change your life? Enrol now for Semester 1, 2023 with TAFE NSW, a leading provider of lifelong learning.

SUSTAINABLE SCHOOLS

Congratulations are in order for recently retired Science and Sustainability Teacher, Ms Ann-Kathrin Kiehn, who has been named Sustainable Schools NSW Teacher of the Year in the 2022 NSW Environmental Education Awards.

These awards are held each year by the Australian Association for Environmental Education, the national peak professional association for environmental educators in Australia and are designed to recognise and celebrate the achievements of environmental educators across NSW.

Ann-Kathrin has been a champion for whole school sustainability at St Columba Anglican School (SCAS) and an inspiring teaching

professional and school leader. Ann-Kathrin has engaged in practical environment projects that have a real impact in our school, enhancing biodiversity and gardens and minimising school waste.

The SCAS Primary School now has a comprehensive waste reduction and recycling program, including green organics, recycling schemes, and Return and Earn bottle and can collection. Ann-Kathrin was also instrumental in the creation and care of our abundant vegetable gardens and the installation of beehives full of native stingless bees. She has also encouraged student involvement in a range of sustainability events and programs, including Clean Up Australia Day, citizen science programs, Koala Smart and Solar Buddy.

Ann-Kathrin has enhanced her own and others’ professional practice by reviewing

curriculum, ongoing mentoring, networking and personal skills development. She has also demonstrated leadership in the School community, regularly promoting sustainability initiatives, supporting the school Sustainability Committee and advocating for the creation of the School’s Sustainability and Environmental Centre (SEC), a dedicated space for environmental education.

Her dedication and commitment over several years has led to positive social and environmental impacts within St Columba Anglican School and the local community.

About St Columba Anglican SchoolSt Columba Anglican School is an independent, co-educational school situated in Port Macquarie on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales for students from Kindergarten to Year 12. Since its establishment in 2002, St Columba has built a reputation for academic excellence, pastoral care of students, and developing the whole child. At St Columba, we believe that education is about recognising a student’s potential and providing a safe community in which to grow.

St Columba Anglican School’s Science Teacher Ann-Kathrin Kiehn has been named the 2022 Sustainable Schools NSW Teacher of the Year.

Ann-Kathrin was also instrumental in the creation and care of our abundant vegetable gardens and the installation of beehives full of native stingless bees.

with ALEX GLEN-HOLMES

Happy New Year everyone. At Business Port Macquarie we are looking at another exciting jam-packed year ahead.

We will be starting the year with a spectacular fireworks display on New Years Eve from All Occasions Pyrotechnics. Humphrey and his team never disappoint. This would not be possible without the generous sponsorship from Hello Sailor, Eire Constructions and a community grant from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

Our first event for the year will be a Cocktail Networking Night on Thursday 19th January to launch our calendar of activities for the first half of the year. We hope that you can join us to welcome in the year and get reacquainted with other local business people.

We also have the launch of the 2023 Coastline Credit Union Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards on the 7th February at Waters Edge. This is a great time to start thinking about your submission for this year. Our Awards Gala Dinner will be on the 20th May and I can tell you with planning well under way this is going to be an incredible night that you don’t want to miss!

As you are aware through November we ran a Small Business Accelerator Program. These were fantastic sessions with incredible facilitators that we are lucky to have locally but are also sought out nationally and internationally. We are so grateful for the amazing talent we have in this region and often take for granted the expertise

we have here. Thank you so much to Stuart Goodfellow, Stacey Morgan, David Ross, Susan Judd and Bron Watson for all you shared with us. We have had many requests from attendees as well as businesses that were unable to attend to run these workshops again. Our wonderful facilitators have agreed to come back so we will be running a working lunch workshop with each of the presenters between March and November so keep your eye out for these.

At Business Port Macquarie we aren’t just about events. We are here to advocate and support our members. We are not politically aligned with any party. We are happy to work with all levels of government to achieve positive outcomes for the Business Community. With support from Destination North Coast, Regional Development Australia North Coast, Marine Rescue Port Macquarie, Park Run Port Macquarie, Business NSW and Birdon Marine we sent a letter of support to Council in regard to the Port Macquarie Southern Breakwall Upgrade. We are aware of the tree removal, including 18 pines and 11 other trees including casuarinas for the work to take place. This is unavoidable as the trees would not survive the works. These plants range in age from 25-30 years old. These will be replaced by 43 mature trees and around 6000 ground cover plants. The breakwall path will be widened to the width of the existing upgraded pathways through Town Green making access safer for everyone especially those with walking aids, wheelchairs and prams. It will also provide

for seating and lighting along the breakwall making this a much more pleasant and safe area for the whole community. Independent experts have certified that there will be no impact on waves and surfing from the works on the hydrodynamics at the breakwall head to which remedial works were carried out in 2014. The breakwall is a critical maritime asset that maintains the navigable entrance to the Hastings River for commercial and recreational purposes.

Even though this maintenance work is maintained through Transport for NSW, we were happy with the Council result on 8th December of 5/4 in support of the works to be carried out. At the same meeting Council also voted 5/4 in regard to reinstatement of the Town Centre Master Plan to ensure the maintenance of the area. This is great for business as it helps bring “feet on the street” to the area which in turn support our local businesses.

If you would like to know more about Business Port Macquarie, please email executive@ businesspmq.com.au or call our Executive Officer Katherine on 0422 562 300.

Join us on socials at Business Port Macquarie or Chamber Chats.

Our quote for the month “We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and it’s first chapter is New Year’s Day” – Edith Lovejoy Pierce.

Have a great Month - Alex

focus contributor.

Illuminate

with KATE WOOD-FOYE

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

EmmaLilly

Emma Lilly’s creativity is a living, breathing thing of beauty and is brought to life in the stories she tells through the unique styling she designs and personally creates for events and clients across our region. Innovation, imagination and creativity collide to bring to life in vivid colour every aspect of event design and delivery, including prop design and building, floristry, technical and lighting design down to the very smallest of intricate details.

Emma, your work is truly stunning can you share your journey to the launch of Emma Lilly Styling. Where did it all begin? My passion for events started on Hamilton Island in 2011, where I worked at the kids club. I started designing discos and continually redecorating the rooms. I used to go into AV Partners, which was the AV company on the island and see all the cool events they did and I borrowed lights and chair covers. As I don’t do anything the normal or easy way I organized a one of a kind casual contract with the island which allowed me to live between Sydney and Hamo whilst I studied Design for Live Theatre Production & Events. I begged for work experience and a job for years and got shut down. Finally in 2015 I landed a casual job rolling cables and packing down band gear!  Within a month my work ethic was clear and I was put on full time.

Then before I knew it I had started a styling department. 2019 I took the leap and moved to Port Macquarie and started Emma Lilly Styling, just before COVID hit.

There are a diverse range of talented local event designers across the region, however you have brought a signature style to Port Macquarie that is distinct and bespoke. Where do you get your inspiration from?

Always struggled with this question. Obviously like the rest of us, I follow many talented designers, florists, builders, photographers etc on social media. I have always been described as off with the fairies and in my own world so I suppose event styling lets me express the things that I am inspired by naturally.

Events in their element are exquisite layers appealing to the sense of  sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. How important are the details to an event’s success?

Very important! I think it is crucial to have all of these things thought through. For example, there is no point spending lots of money on flowers, if once the sun goes down its  dark and you can’t see them. An event is poorly executed if you have not got the right suppliers coming together in unison. You won’t have that wow factor if all the senses have not been thought of. What are the pinnacle or pivotal moments that have marked or changed the course of your career?

Realising I don’t want to just use my creative skills to execute events. I have been working on another adventure, a space for all types of creative projects and like-minded people in the community to gather. It is called Co-Em-Unity, so watch this space.

What has been your biggest challenge as an event stylist and business owner? People do not understand how much time,

products and unique set of skills that go into being an event stylist. I find that it is perceived as quite a fluffy fun job, when in fact it is lots of physical labour, stress, technical skill and constant problem solving.

I am basically a tradie. People forget you have to pay for all the time it takes to create these events, plus run an actual business. Even my future mother- in-law thought of it as a nice hobby when I told her what I do.

How important are mentors in your journey?

Very important, I have a tendency to get very excited and side tracked. Lots of wonderful people around me give critical feedback. They are a great support system to have.

What is your relationship with risk? How critical has it been in your journey as a business owner?

I admittedly have quite a good relationship with risk in my business. My creative, stubborn can-do nature allows me to look past the risks and execute the outcome I am hoping for, even if I get roadblocks on the way, which has been critical to my success so far.

What is the hardest lesson you have learned in life and business?

YOU CAN’T DO IT ALL! And always be your authentic self.

What advice would you give someone taking a leap of faith into a new business? ( in a different state/location?)

You will either spend your life working for someone else’s dreams or your own. Choose wisely.

Although I’m sure it’s like trying to ask you to pick a favourite child, what was your most memorable event?

It’s a complete tie so I’ll have to tell you both! I turned the Convention Centre on the Island into Outer Space. I had a complete sensory overload once the lights went on and the band started playing, I stood in the middle of the room and balled my eyes out because what was going on in my head was out in the world in large scale for all to see. It was crazy! The following year I turned the airport hangar into a Top Gun themed event for the same client and I made her, (a 70 year old woman) who has been in the event industry for 40 years, cry with pride. I pulled the giant airport doors shut, turned around to see it all lit up and it was spectacular, everyone was clapping and in complete awe of what we achieved.

Thanks Emma.

My creative, stubborn cando nature allows me to look past the risks and execute the outcome I am hoping for….even if I get roadblocks on the way.

Our Mission

Provide meaningful paid employment, personal growth opportunities and other support services in a safe and happy environment for people living with disability.

Our Vision

The Foundation is a vibrant and sustainable disability enterprise, providing opportunities and pathways for our friendly, willing, and able people.

Willing &Able

WILLING & ABLE RECENTLY HELD SEVERAL STRATEGY SESSIONS WITH THEIR TEAM AND BOARD MEMBERS TO CLEARLY IDENTIFY THEIR PRIORITIES FOR THE NEXT 12 MONTHS.

Areview of both our Mission and Vision showed us we really don’t want to change our focus too much at all –the most important thing at Willing & Able has always been our people, and that is exactly how we are planning to move forward.

The Willing & Able Mission

Provide meaningful paid employment, personal growth opportunities and other support services in a safe and happy environment for people living with disability.

The Willing & Able Vision

The Foundation is a vibrant and sustainable disability enterprise, providing opportunities and pathways for our friendly, willing, and able people.

We want to keep the charm of Willing & Able but ensure we are professional in all our endeavours. A stronger focus on risk management, staff training and team building are all on the list – basically we just want to keep doing things better.

We will embrace the social enterprise model and ethos – increasing our involvement with circular economy and social enterprise networks on the Mid North Coast, looking for more opportunities for environmentally positive based projects that can increase the meaningful roles available for our supported employees.

For all existing and new businesses and services we will consider the impact on our people, our environment, and our community. We are already environmentally responsible, but we know we can do more.

Whatever the future endeavours are for Willing & Able they will always match our Vision and Mission and contribute to the positive culture of the Foundation

We would also like to take this opportunity to say how extremely grateful and humbled we are that so many in our local business community think of us with donations, grants and making us beneficiaries of their events. The support we receive is amazing and these businesses can be assured that every $ we receive is used to directly support or benefit our Team.

If you or a loved one are interested in any services that Willing & Able can offer, please visit our website www.willingandable.org.au for more information or call 6581 0939 to talk to a friendly team member.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

PROPERTY GUIDE

Mc DONALD JONES HOMES

SOVEREIGN HILLS

DISPLAY VILLAGE

Welcome to Ibiza… Doors open on new bright and breezy beach house

Summer has arrived at the Sovereign Hills Display Village with the opening of a classic coastal beach house from McDonald Jones Homes. Visit the Ibiza Two design and new ‘Home and Land’ office at 22 York Street, Port Macquarie to learn how you can bundle everything together, including finding your block of land, finance and building your new home.

“It‘s a streamlined process, aimed at making it easier for people to get started on their dream home sooner, with expert support along the entire journey so they can get the keys to their new home in the location they love,” shared specialised Building and Design Consultant Kathleen Ezard.

The Ibiza Two is a single storey fourbedroom design, with separate home theatre and study nook, from the builders’ affordable NOW Series range. The exterior timber cladding, natural timber floors and V-joint wall panelling throughout add character, warmth and texture.

Height and airiness can be felt as you enter the dining/family room with the stunning raked ceiling, large windows and stacker doors.

The Laminex Polar White Pure Grain Kitchen gives a crisp clean feel, accented with the subtle matt brass handles and brushed brass tapware shown throughout the home.

McDonald Jones Homes now provide a packaged home and land option.

Hills Style

The Ibiza has a large open kitchen/ family/living area overlooking the large alfresco and resort-style entertaining area.

A tiled plunge pool is set amongst sandstone-look tiling, timber decking and a patio with a stacker stone feature wall.

Lush tropical landscaping, including birds-of-paradise and frangipani combined with more traditional hedges and lawn, contrast with black timber fencing, providing the perfect backdrop to your own get-togethers with family and friends.

The design is McDonald Jones Homes’ third display home in the Sovereign Hills Display Village, however, it’s the first to offer ‘Packaged Solutions’.

Our process takes out the stress of clients trying to secure a block of land, then having to choose a design, and then add an array of inclusions on top. We provide an easy packaged option, so clients just need to select an area which they want to live, and our team can then help find the perfect package that suits. Our team can also offer support with finance through our MyChoice Home Loans team.

The Ibiza Two is now open Saturday –Wednesday at 22 York Street in the Sovereign Hills Display Village from 10am – 5pm.

York Street, Sovereign Hills sovereignhills.com.au

Want to see more?

Check out the new Sovereign

Series Scan here and be inspired!

This design is perfect for first home buyers, investors and any family looking for a luxury home without the price tag.

The Massena l On display at Sovereign Hills.

Right now, you can save thousands on your dream home with McDonald Jones across their entire range of designs.

Whether you’re looking for a house and land package, knockdown rebuild, or help finding your dream design, our expert team are here to make it easy to get started. Ask