Feature Story MANNING-GREAT LAKES
INXS - Tim Farriss
June 2012 // issue 64
MEN BUSINESS
A RT I S T P RO F I L E
MEN IN BUSINESS
Local artist and art teacher Elizabeth Tinker has won multiple awards and prizes in her long career.
This special feature profiles the expertise and achievements of businessmen in the MGL region.
R ED NOSE DAY The 25th anniversary of this annual fundraiser for SIDS & Kids will be held on 29 June.
editor's note.
editor.
from the
’d like to introduce a Letters to the Editor page for our wonderful readers to contribute to in our July edition.
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The first subject tabled for discussion is etiquette in the 21st century. I’m not referring to which fork is the correct one to use at the dinner table, but rather how you consider manners have evolved (or not) with the advent of technology. Has new technology caused a dramatic re-evaluation of polite behaviour? A mobile phone ringing in the middle of a theatre performance; or a Generation Y employee resigning from a job via a text message, or perhaps your spouse takes phone calls while dining at a restaurant? There’s also the subject of etiquette generally. For instance, is it good role modelling for a parent to not exit their car to extend a greeting and thank you after their child attends a children’s birthday party you’ve arranged (as was an experience I encountered recently)?
Karen Farrell
So readers, get typing and writing; I’d like to receive your emails or letters on etiquette in the 21st century for potential publication in our July edition. ON THE COVER This month, FOCUS photographer Craig Mason captured our Men in Business cover shot of Mark Ellis, CEO and inventor of Headzone (Mark is our feature interview in the Men in Business spread) and Doug Freebody, owner of the recently re-formed KBI Design. We get to meet some terrific local business identities in the 2012 Men in Business feature – look out for it on page 34. IN THIS ISSUE There’s plenty of entertainment happening in the Manning-Great Lakes in June.
with the band’s new singer, Ciaran Gibbin. We have two tickets to give away to the INXS concert at Club Forster – find out more inside. We also hear from award-winning Australian producer Garry Ginivan about his musical adaptation of the iconic Peter Rabbit, performing at the Manning Entertainment Centre in June. FEATURE PICTURE Grant Manus took this month’s beautiful editor’s photo at Little Street in Forster on his way home from work. Spectacular. FINAL WORDS “Those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” Bernard M. Baruch.
I interviewed affable guitarist Tim Farriss about the impending INXS tour to Australia’s regional Rock heartland
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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Manning-Great Lakes Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.
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I have long been a fan of INXS and their music, previously described by band members as “big, basic dirty noise” and “white boy dance music” and had the pleasure of meeting Michael Hutchence when working as a publicist on MTV (Music Television) at Channel 9 in the early '90s.
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t the time, INXS was lauded as the consummate Rock band, enjoying chart-topping singles such as What You Need, Never Tear Us Apart, New Sensation,and Suicide Blonde. Throughout 34 years of playing together, INXS has performed over 5,000 live shows to a colossal 25 million people across 50 countries. In September 2011, INXS announced singer/ songwriter Ciaran Gribban as the band’s new front man. Following the success of recent overseas concerts, INXS will be touring to regional Australia for the first time in many years, playing the band's massive hits plus some brand new songs. I caught up with guitarist Tim Farriss to talk about the band's upcoming Coast to Coast tour to regional Australia … Fans will be thrilled with the announcement of your long awaited tour. It’s something we’ve wanted to do for a very long time – it’s a chance to get out of the major cities. Ciaran Gribbin, our new singer and songwriter with Andrew (Farriss), is fresh from Ireland and loves Australia. We’ve been hanging out a lot in the band room playing and want to get out there to road test the new songs. We’ve wanted to do an 'Original Tour' for a very long time. There hasn’t been an opportunity to do it. Now that we’re writing all this material and we’re about to go into the studio, we thought before we record it, why not take this opportunity to finally do the 'Original Tour? You recently performed a slew of overseas concerts with Gribbin. Was it a conscious decision to debut the new singer overseas prior to touring to Australia’s Rock heartlands? It’s how it played out, really. Ciaran started out with 15,000 people in Peru, then his next night was Argentina. We’ve been playing South America for a long time, and we threw him in off the deep end. Now we’ve had a chance to bond and for him to become more of a band mate, rather than a hired gun. Which makes a huge difference, doesn’t it? It does make a huge difference. We’re just enjoying his company and the songs that he and Andrew write. There are some real jewels and some surprises. The more we hang out as a band the better, as Ciaran gets to know how we do things. We haven’t done this in a long time, since before Kick. It’s Kick's 25th 4
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anniversary this year and to celebrate we’re re-releasing the record, which hasn’t been available for a long time, with a whole lot of stuff which will come out with it at the same time. What else will be released with it? e “When we wer at era, All kinds of stuff, that I touring during thying to don’t want to give away… everyone was tr r with outdo each othe am, Just a little bit …? the latest handyc There will be some and we were just out versions of songs that shooting the helld not and were kind of like people haven’t heard, plus of everything anck at it ba g ‘hired guns’. I know that’s in ok lots of video and archival lo even what Brian Johnson is in until now…” footage. We’ve had all our ACDC, but he came along at stuff digitised, because film a completely different time for and tape only has a shelf life for them. In fact, they broke huge when so long and it had to be digitised. they got Brian Johnson to sing. So for us, it’s In doing that, we discovered some real gems been a completely different road. We’ve had to – especially amongst some of our personal go in several directions to find the right path stuff. When we were touring during that era, and feel really comfortable again, and that’s everyone was trying to outdo each other with what we’ve done – it’s a great feeling. the latest handycam, and we were just shooting When someone who has played such an the hell out of everything and not even looking influential role in a band either leaves the back at it until now… Ciaran comes with strong songwriting skills band or departs us, it doesn’t mean that the band has to be thrown out with it … – are you maximising those skills? Well put. You took the words right out of Absolutely. It’s the first time Andrew felt my mouth. I would have said more like, "If comfortable writing with a partner in the someone in the family dies, you don’t change band since Michael died. It’s obviously really the name of the family." important and was a major priority for Andrew No you don’t … moving forward that he was able to find You carry on. We didn’t spend all those years another writing partner. and all that time away from our families for He met Ciaran at a party somewhere on it not to be something. And by being INXS, Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and they just Michael is still around. Every time we play, started writing together. Ciaran came out Michael is there. We’re keeping him alive. to Australia from Ireland with his wife, only It’s a rare day when a band stays together planning to stay for a few months, and he and for 34 years and has the level success that Andrew started getting pretty serious about you guys have. Respect would play an writing. Then Ciaran moved here and they’re enormous part in it, I’d imagine? writing and we’re playing together – and we I guess just the joy of playing music together. love it. Everyone’s having a great time. We really do enjoy playing music together. Following Michael’s passing, is part of Other than respect, you talk to people who the reason why some of the other singers say, “We grew up listening to you”, and so in didn’t quite work out for INXS because many ways the music that you’re hearing now they didn’t have strong a songwriting is influenced by us twenty or thirty years ago, ability? when these people were growing up. It keeps That’s the main reason. They all had wonderful talent and are wonderful entertainers our music relevant. During the ‘Summer XS’ tour in 1991, INXS in their own right, but they were always played Wembley Stadium in front of 77,000 somebody else. It was never, “Oh he’s the new people. Tell us about how you became guy in INXS”; instead, it was always, “Oh, nicknamed The Riff Meister, or The Riff he’s Terence Trent D’Arby, Jon Stevens, or JD Sheriff. Fortune”. They’re individuals in their own right
Adam McMahon and Dan Brauer.
We usually like to mess around with songs musically and have fun on stage and try different bits and pieces out here and there ... We’d get to a point in the song What You Need and stuff around, until Michael would finally say, “Play the f-ing riff, Timmy!” It just sort of came out of that from the press. People call me the Riff Meister and Devil Inside. I used to skateboard across the stage, playing during Kirk’s solo, and he used to get upset because it would take the attention away from his solo. You can’t take the attention off the solo! No … It’s a great solo, and it did deserve more respect than me skateboarding around the stage. I’m absolutely gobsmacked that you have performed to 25 million people … Ha! Well, I’m gobsmacked that it’s only that many… Five thousand live shows, 25 million people and nearly 50 countries. That’s impressive. Well, you should see my passport and my Frequent Flyer points. I want some! I’ve got enough to share. Good! Are you still a bit of a fan of deep sea fishing? Absolutely. When you’re up here, if you have time, I’ll point you in the right direction of someone to go fishing with. That would be great; I’d love it. Thanks Tim. Interview by Karen Farrell.
the plug! Club Forster on Wednesday 20 June @ 8pm. Phone (02) 6591 6591 www.clubforster.com.au INXS is an 18s+ show
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inside this
Boy & Bear The five band members: Dave, Tim, Killian, Jake and Jon have had a whirlwind 3 years since the inception of Boy & Bear, and picking up 5 ARIAs last year has not deterred them from giving their regional fans the chance to see them live. FOCUS chats to Tim, lead singer and guitarist, about the journey to stardom ...
Issue 64 - June 2012
8.
Refugee Week
Refugee Week is taking place in June. Jane O’Dwyer, Migrant Settlement Project Worker for Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services, is holding a two-day refugee event from June 26 - 27.
12.
usual suspects.
the
9. what’s on for June 16. eat featuring local restaurants 28. star guide with Terri 53. tourism update with Kerry ry Johnstone
29.
Peter Rabbit Beatrix Potter’s much loved classic celebrates its 110th anniversary with the musical Happy Birthday Peter Rabbit, Celebrating 110 Years.
No matter where you are in the world, d, read Focus for free online every month nth @
www.focusmag.com.au or follow us on www.facebook.com/mgl.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat
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focusinterview.
Biddies When a group of ladies - former school mates - revisit their old classroom, there can be some interesting consequences! Written by Don Reid, the same playwright who brought us the hilariously funny production Codgers, Biddies explores what it means to face growing older. We meet one of the amazing stars of Biddies – Annie Byron …
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hat’s Biddies actually about? You’ve had a lot of television experience too – your acting resume contains probably every It’s about a group of women major Australian show, like The Sullivans, The who went to the same school Flying Doctors and A Country Practice, as well as who come together after all stage experience. Both types of acting obviously the intervening years to work require completely different skills, and I’m on a project for the school. What surfaces are various thinking of the comparison between the two conflicts and patterns of behaviour that are quite old roles … recalling that many stage actors have and also, they have a growing awareness of said to me that the hardest part of perhaps what might have been missing acting is the repetition! from their own education! Yes, but I guess you’re getting The character you play – Beryl. lots of opportunities to get it right ay pl e What’s she like? “I think th e th ng by performing over and over vi ha t She’s described in the play as is abou d up an st to e again too. The thing that does ag ur co having a small life. She’s had a yourself ... it’s be d an make it different all the time is very stable and happy marriage, ho out rejoicing in w ab the audience. It’s extraordinary but now she’s going through and what we are.” what an impact the audience an unsettling time. Beryl has a has – they’re really like an extra couple of children who are now character. Audiences have a feel adults, and she’s the sort of woman to them … some are quiet, but very for whom husband and family are the warm, others … actually, we’ve had focus of her life. She’s never had a career, varying responses from the audiences. and she doesn’t have a lot of confidence. So here That’s been one of the joys of doing this show! It’s she is, well into middle-age, and really feeling quite been a delight to travel round the country and bring insecure with her place in the world. this production to people. Considering the extent of the Biddies tour, how In terms of audience reactions, you’d probably do actually manage to keep the production expect a positive reaction from older women, as fresh? they’d relate to the characters and the action. That’s a part of the job, really. We have quite a lot What’s the reaction from the younger audience of days off in between – travel days and days off – members been like? but part of the skill of performance is you have to be That’s been really thrilling! In Brisbane, an actor able to do that whether you’re travelling between we all know came to see our show and afterwards; shows or doing the same one night after night in he was gobsmacked! He said there were all these the same place. It’s a big question to try to answer, I teenagers and 20-somethings down the front, waving guess …
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their arms at the end of the show and wanting to be Biddies! There is an invitation at the end for audience members to join in – not in any scary way (laughs) – and this actor was flabbergasted that there were so many young people wanting to join in and be a part of it all. So it has had a positive response from the young people as well – everyone has mothers and grandmothers, so they’re experiencing the show from the outside in. And men too! Many men may have been dragged along to the show, but they’ve found a lot to enjoy as well! If there is one solid theme or life lesson audience members could take away from Biddies, what would that be? I think the play is about having the courage to stand up and be yourself. There’s a message at the end of the play that says, “Biddies are doing it for themselves”… so I think it’s about rejoicing in who and what we are. Thanks Annie. Interview by Jo Atkins.
the plug! You can watch the fabulous Biddies production at the Manning Entertainment Centre on June 22 at 8pm or June 23 at 2pm or 8pm. Tickets cost $39 adult, $35 pensioner or $32 under 21. 6592 5466.
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From 20 June - 4 July* receive one Crazy Day Doll Dollar lar for every $10 spent at specialty stores or $20 spent at Coles, Kmart, Aldi, Target County, Bunnings Warehouse and Woolworths. During the Crazy Day Sale (5 July), you can redeem your Crazy Day Dollars at participating retailers with each Crazy y Day Day Dollar Dollar valuing valuing $1. $1.
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artist profile_
Elizabeth Tinker is a local artist who has lived on the Mid North Coast for 27 years. She is currently a full-time art teacher at North Coast TAFE Art & Design School. Elizabeth’s achievements include receiving an Award of Excellence for Outstanding Achievements in Fine Arts, plus winning numerous prizes in local exhibitions.
Tinker.
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lizabeth recently returned from a trip to New York, k, ic where she found the allure and beautiful aesthetic of shop window displays to inspire new artworks ... What brought you to the Manning-Great Lakes 27 years ago? When I was 22, I travelled around Australia for one year and returned to Sydney, resuming my old job at Macquarie University, where I worked with talented painters, printmakers and photographers. The city was good fun, but I was in search of more adventure – and headed north. The Great Lakes region was really appealing, as it felt like the south west of Western Australia ... only with the lakes and forests and ocean geographically closer. I started working as a graphic artist at Forster Tuncurry Printing Service and purchased my first home. Three children came next, and so I stayed! Tell us about the philosophy behind your art ... For many years, my work has explored the natural light and reflected patterns found within the lakes, oceans and waterways of the Mid North Coast. Maritime markers and the life beneath the surface of the water have been of great interest to me. This beauty has contrasted with the harmful effects created by commercialisation and over fishing, which contributes to the depletion of our food supplies. I am also fascinated by different modes of visualisation, and in my work I hope to capture a mood, a recollection and a sensation, as this does more than illustrate reality. Apart from painting, you also recently started creating wire sculptures, some of which depict the human form ... tell us about the process of creating the sculptures? I have explored and experimented with ideas and different materials to communicate my concepts. I enjoy sculpture, and in particular working with wire, as I can mentally connect the varying thicknesses of wire to that of a charcoal drawing, where heavy and light lines are drawn to communicate form. I consider play and experimentation necessary for ideas to be developed and fully investigated. Wire is a medium I have used for some time, and I am interested in how different materials and approaches can push and manipulate the creative idea. You’ve said that on your recent trip to New York that you found yourself “gazing into shop windows, which were slickly organised to please consumer senses and spending ...” How did the allure or aesthetic of the shop windows help to inspire recent paintings? New York is a fascinating and exciting city, where even the shop windows, consumer driven and sprawling, showcase and display clothes, fruit, vegetables and bundled flowers, which tempt and please our senses. They are aesthetically displayed, and with the seduction of colour, texture, form, sounds and smell, they hold one’s gaze as they stretch out onto the pavement. Each window was beautifully composed and balanced, giving me an immediate experience as well as an imaginary one, as I think in terms of paint. Your painting Morning Delivery on 63rd Street shows the beauty of prettily bundled flowers ... tell us about the process of this painting and if it was a real life depiction while in New York (or painted in hindsight from a
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phot ph otog ot ogra og ogra aph ph)? h)? photograph)? Two paintings were produced back in the studio after the trip trip. The importance of the subject matter was the wrapped flower heads outside a florist shop. As I walked past, I was so taken by the shapes, that I knew it would become a painting one day. First, I completed a soft pastel drawing to become acquainted with the shapes, which gave me a better understanding of the forms. I then problem solve and analyse the compositional aspects within the drawing. Next, I sketch onto the canvas and respond in a more personal way, as I am now close to the subject, making choices about the way I want the painting to look and communicate. I always create a palette of carefully mixed colours and use either We live in an ageng acrylic or oil paints. Then the execution where everythi of of the work begins – an exciting and yet come an object is be n ca painted in her landscape are sublimely ty of th terrifying process. With Morning Delivery desire; the beau courages en t beautiful. en nm ro vi on 63rd Street, I chose to paint in a realist en shing and fi g, in As a teacher who is also a productive at bo style, but the second version explored a ch nsumption, whi ern co artist, what do you have to say about surrealist approach, as it was important to od is fair to say is m ering.” the saying: “Those who can, do; and th ga d me to experiment with expressing the idea hunting an those who can’t, teach”? with different modes of visualisation. My arts practice is very separate to How does the notion of commercialisation my teaching, but I fi nd teaching valuable, play out in your art? as I reinforce with students the notion of good The Fishermen Series, which I painted in 2006, led practice and of staying focused on the visual arts process. me to research and explore the fishing culture and leisure activity While I am teaching, I am still thinking about creating works; on the East Coast of Australia. Comparisons were made from teaching heightens the experiences to be gained in the the 1970s until then. Early in this period, fish were abundant and creative industries, as one speaks the language of art on a caught readily, and the prize catch photographed in the spirit of daily basis. Working as a full-time TAFE teacher also means competition. Today, this contrasts with the declining numbers I am connected to a wide base of creative professionals and of fish caught and available. The issues central to this are over fishing, commercialisation, pollution and of the need for education industry specialists. We never stop learning, and being able to engage in professional conversations about works of art and marine parks. We live in an age where everything can become or the rigour of one’s art practice ... this is stimulating and an object of desire; the beauty of this environment encourages informative. boating, fishing and consumption, which is fair to say is modern In fact, because I do teach, there is a real desire and hunting and gathering. yearning to stay committed and be organised, so that priority Are there any artists who particularly inspire you? time is given to be productive in the studio. Early on in my high school years, Egyptian Art influenced Favourite quote or words to live by ... me, with their fragments of symbols, which took on power and Take time to smell the roses – feel your senses cross over beauty. The design of each symbol and their arrangement on and be present. the tomb walls had a fascinating appeal. Later, I worked with an Where can people look forward to seeing your work Egyptologist, Naguib Kanawati, while at Macquarie University, next on display? creating line drawings from actual tracings made directly off the The Gallery Corridor at Great Lakes TAFE Art & Design tomb walls at El Hawawish (Old Kingdom), and this made for School will be holding a staff exhibition in August. This will be very exciting work. Focusing on burial customs and art history has a great opportunity for the general public to come in to view added another layer of meaning to this ancient socio and political the diversity of works and enjoy the campus atmosphere. culture. Presently, I am inspired by Godfrey Miller, the German Thanks Elizabeth. Expressionist painters and by the modern approach taken by Interview by Karen Farrell. Clarice Beckett during the 1920s. Beckett’s atmospheric effects
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What ’s W H A T’ S O N A RO U N D T H E R EG I O N / / J U N E 2012
what’s
15 Winter Festival The Manning Winter Festival is on from 7 - 10 June. The festival raises the profile of visual arts, sculpture, music, dance, drama, poetry plus much more in the Manning … Some highlights at this year’s festival include the Choral Concert, Jazz on the Waterfront, and a Roger Woodward Masterclass and concert. When 7 - 10 June More info www.manningwinterfestival.com
Boy & Bear ar Forster-Tuncurry is in for one big treat from Boy & Bear, as they look to thank their fans for what has been a year of big journeys and greater accomplishments for the 5 time ARIA award winning Sydney quintet. When Friday 15 June - 8pm - 18+yrs Tickets Presale $36; door $40 More info www.clubforster.com.au
Geoquest Adventure Race From 8 - 11 June this year, the coastal and aquatic wonderland of the Great Lakes will play host to over 500 competitors, support crew, family and friends for the Mountain Designs GeoQuest 48 hour adventure race. The Geo-Half adventure race is run at the same time as the Mountain Designs GeoQuest. It covers only half the distance, but teams have the full 48 hours to complete it. For full details and entry info, visit the website: www.geoquest.com.au When Fri 8 - Mon 11 June. More info Craig Bycroft: 0419 427 244 or craig@geocentricoutdoors.com.au
Saori Hand Weaving workshop Manning Regional Art Gallery is holding a workshop in Saori weaving by Master weaver Kaz Madigan. 'Saori' is hand weaving that emphasises creativity and free expression. When Friday 22 and Saturday 23 June from 10am to 4pm. Where Manning Regional Art Gallery. Cost $180 plus materials – at 13 cents per gram (average $15 - $25) a non-refundable deposit of $50 will be required upon booking. Suitable for beginners and experienced artisans.
The VB NSW Surfmasters Titles 2012 Presented by Mobys Retreat, the event sees over 150 of the best 'over 35' surfers in NSW compete across 8 divisions for prestigious State Titles. Our wave-rich region provides the perfect location for the four-day competition, from June 14 - 17. Where Forster/Tuncurry When Thu 14 Jun 2012 to Sun 17 Jun 2012. Entries closing Mon 11 Jun 2012.
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Matters. [ with Alan T ickle ]
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ear Alan, I have sold my property and my accountant has suggested that I start a self managed superannuation fund, because it is less expensive than putting money into my existing superannuation fund. What do you think? FF Dear FF, I can provide you with a superannuation fund or allocated pension account that starts with a base cost of .29%pa with a core Multiblend of fund managers, and from there you can customise additional features for additional costs. To make a general statement that self managed funds are less expensive is clearly not true. Whether or not a self managed fund is less expensive depends not only on the amount invested, but depends on whether the trustees are actually involved in direct investment. I often see a self managed fund with nothing but managed funds in it, because the trustees do not have the expertise nor desire to manage the investments themselves. In those cases, the self managed fund becomes more expensive, because there are additional costs such as accounting and audit fees, as well as the fund management costs. There are some major advantages in a self managed fund, in particular where a business is able to utilise commercial premises as a super fund asset and for ease in administration, where a member becomes deceased. However, I see too many cases where self managed funds have been recommended, when the trustees have limited ability to understand or take on the responsibility as trustees, let alone actually manage a portfolio of investments. I have clients that I assist with portfolio advice for their self managed fund and have recommended the establishment of self managed funds where the following broad principles are in place:
• There is a recognition and partnership between the Financial Planner who assists the trustees agree on and document an investment strategy that includes direct investments as well as managed funds, which adds diversification and specialist management. The documented strategy needs to meet the regulators' requirements to clearly define objectives and asset weightings. • There are reviews and minutes maintained of meetings and a professional method of communication with the trustees, planner and the accountant. • Meetings held before June to review personal strategy for members and to ensure statutory requirements have been met and avoidance of excess benefit issues. • Guidance on the principle of avoidance of associated transactions (i.e. the super fund has a sole purpose of provision of retirement benefits) as there are certain transactions such as transfer of residential property owned by members or family associates or use of superannuation assets for personal use, that will render the fund non compliant. • Importantly, there needs a review mechanism in place to ensure trust deed compliance, as well as a succession plan built into the trust deed to enable the fund to be maintained should the trustee become unable to carry on their duties, or where there is a death. When deciding on whether a self managed fund is for you, ask yourself the question, as to what is important to you in retirement and do you want the additional burden. Sometimes the burden is greater than the outcome, but where there is a partnership between the trustees, accountant and a capable Financial Planner, the trustees can learn and grow in confidence and ultimately enjoy the success of having their own fund. A review service for existing self managed funds is available through Your Heritage Financial Planning.
This information and advice is of a general nature only and no reliance should be placed on the information before seeking individual advice from a Financial Planner and Taxation Adviser to ensure the appropriateness to individual circumstances. Alan Tickle and Your Heritage Financial Planning are both authorised representatives of Securitor Financial Group AFSL 240687 ABN 48009189495.
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The five band members: Dave, Tim, Killian, Jake & Jon have had a whirlwind three years since the inception of Boy
Boy Bear
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t's been a whirlwind three years for you guys, hey … Yeah, yeah it has been – it’s been pretty wild! Just for some background info, where does the name Boy & Bear come from? Well, unfortunately we've spent three years explaining it – and it's not a pretty story! Ha ha ... it’s not grubby or anything; it’s just that we really needed a name and … well ... we used a band name generator on the internet! So how did you five get together? Three of us went to uni together. We were all playing in different bands supporting each other, and my brother, who's the keyboard player played in my band and I was the singer and guitarist and Jake, who's our bass player, had played in a band with one of our managers and he'd gone to uni with Dave, Killian and myself … which sounds a bit convoluted, but in some weird, miraculous way, we morphed into one band in the end. We came in to play in Dave's solo project but once we started writing together, Dave was like: "This is a band; it’s not a solo project". And that was when we started writing the EP. Once you started playing live gigs and jamming together, at what point did you realise you might be onto something big?
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For me, it was just the fact that in those jam sessions and gigs, there was a real respect for each other, and everyone’s opinion that was a creative opinion was taken into account and considered – and more times than not, it was taken on board.” It was a really great environment for me to work with. I'd worked with a lot of wan*ers growing up ... like my way or the highway, and all of a sudden I was working with people who were not only really talented, but also really great people and really respectful. So, I was like I didn't really care where this goes – it’s just such a great environment to work in. For a musician, the pinnacle is to be able to be a creative as you can, and then one day someone to notice it and maybe give you a show – and we were fortunate enough to run that gauntlet. The tour kicks off soon. What final preparations are being made? We recently just got back from our European tour and this week
& Bear, and picking up 5 five ARIAs last year has not deterred them from giving their regional fans the chance to see them live. FOCUS chats to Tim, lead singer and guitarist, about the journey to stardom ...
has been all rehearsals, as we are putting together a new show. There are going to be a few new tracks that haven't been played live before, and we've got a new set and we're bringing the whole crew on tour for that, which is really exciting. It’s going to be a completely different set; there's going to be a lot of tracks from the album and some tracks from the EP and a couple of new tracks – particularly exciting, as we haven't done this much rehearsal for a tour before ... seven full days of rehearsal and a few days of production rehearsal. So yeah – really exciting and a little draining, as the jet lag is kicking in! This is a big tour, extending over two months ... tell us a little about life on the road. We're fortunate enough in Australia to have a really great crew, so on the road we'll get to a city and the crew will go down and start getting the set ready … while we get to be lazy (laughs)! So we'll go out and get to see a little bit of the city. We get down to sound check at about 3pm in the afternoon and make sure everything is going right and work on all the vocals. From there, the two support bands usually roll in; they'll be on the sound check too, then we do the show, and we have a little bit of an afters (party) ... but we're not a big party band, and we're usually back in the hotel within an hour and a half of finishing the show. Then we get underway to the next place. We're getting old, we're not very Rock 'n' Roll at all (laughs)! You mentioned your support bands, who are the Jungle Giants and Tin Sparrow; tell us about them and why you chose them to support you on this tour. Well, they are both great young bands. Jungle Giants speak for themselves; you have probably heard their songs on Triple J … we love those guys. We don't know them personally; we just hunted them out, as we really like their tunes, and we're looking forward to meeting them and seeing how they go live – which we have heard really great reports about. Tin Sparrow we went to university with, and we have wanted to take these guys on tour for a long time. The time’s just right now; they are lovely guys, they write some great tunes, they have an EP coming out, and they are incredible live. They have a great energy and some funky tunes.
You're playing a few venues across the Mid North Coast, Coffs, Port and Forster ... have you been to any of those places before? No, we haven't – this is going to be the first time. Last year went really well for us, quite unexpectedly, and our idea was that normally when this happens, the bands head straight overseas and tend to forget Australia and the Australian regional markets. For us, while overseas is a priority, our biggest priority is Australia and connecting regionally in Australia, and that is something we have wanted to do for some time. We have kept the ticket price low, ‘cause you know, when we were at uni and we were those kids, if we wanted to go see a show and the band had got a little bit too big for their boots and were jacking up the price, then you couldn't really afford it. So we just tried to make a tour so that anyone who wants to come can come. Hopefully even for those who are a bit far from capital cities, they can still come and have a beer and enjoy the night out. You picked up five ARIA awards last year – a great nod from the marketplace. How has it propelled you forward? For us, it was unexpected, really unexpected, and we had already been planning the next record. The thing I really love about Boy & Bear is that mutual respect in terms of our creative vision, and the favourite part for us is to be able to create new songs and play them live for people, so we've been doing that. The ARIAs were really lovely and it’s great to be recognised by people; I think that that is something a lot of musicians deserve, but don't always receive. I am not sure we deserved it, but we were very humbled by the fact that we were recognised. I don't think you can rest on that, and we are onto the next record now and writing that at the moment. And that's why (on the tour) we'll start to play some new songs live and see how the audiences respond to them. Thanks Tim; see you at the concert.
the plug! See Boy & Bear on Friday 15 June 2012 at 8pm, Club Forster. Pre-Sale: $36. Door: $40. Phone (02) 6591 6591.
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Refugee Week is taking place in June. Jane O’Dwyer, Migrant Settlement Project Worker for Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services, is holding a two-day refugee event from June 26 - 27. The event will see 24 African refugees aged between 16 to 25 travel from Newcastle to spend time with school kids from the Manning-Great Lakes. The event is in its second year and is organised in conjunction with Northern Settlement Services and Manning Valley Neighbourhood services.
Refugee y running the two-day event, you are hoping to raise awareness of issues faced by refugees pre-arrival and postarrival in Australia. How are you hoping to achieve this? Students from Taree High School and Great Lakes College will engage with the refugees in a number of activities ... As regional areas, Taree and the Great Lakes both lack the cultural diversity that you would experience in larger areas such as Newcastle or Sydney. Because of this, usually students don’t have the opportunity to see, talk with and get to know refugees. Having the refugees come to the area and engage in activities with the students will provide a face to people we really only see in media coverage. Students will gain personal and first hand experience with our visiting refugees with small informal discussion groups where refugees will share their stories and chat with students. Students will then be able to enjoy the captivating performances of the girls Burundi Choir and boys Dance Group, which is a great example of the culture which comes to Australia with these people. Students and refugees will also play some basketball and soccer games over the two days. Issues affecting refugees will be discussed between small groups of high school student and the refugees. Could you tell us about how the process works? Students will be broken into 12 groups of 8 10 students with two efugees. Each group will have the opportunity to talk with the refugees in their group in an intimate and personal way. The refugees will share their individual experiences and stories about life pre and post arrival in Australia, with students being able to ask questions, and chat in a friendly and informal way. The groups will rotate about every 15 minutes for about 1 hour, giving students the chance to talk with a number of refugees from a range of countries with varying ages and experiences. In the lead up to the event, teachers will give students background information on refugee
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and asylum seeker issues to maximise the group discussions and give the students time to think about what they might like to ask. With issues around refugees and asylum seekers sparking so much nd With issues arou controversy in the media and um yl as d an es ge refu in politics, it is hard to get an so seekers sparkingrsy in accurate picture. Hopefully this ve ro nt co h muc litics, will help students to make up understand, as they the media and po an t ge to rd their own minds with accurate ha are so far removed is it ... accurate picture information and first hand from our lives. It is discussion. even more difficult for Which countries in Africa are the high school students, as 24 refugees from, and what is their they lack the life experience current status being in Australia? and knowledge that comes with The countries the refugees originally come age. Undoubtedly, this opportunity will add from include Liberia, Sierra Leone, Congo, greatly to both their studies and life experience Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, as individuals. Sudan and Mauritius. All people who have The Education Department also has a granted refugee visas (as our visitors have) are Multicultural Policy, which encourages respect permanent arrivals. They receive nothing more for people from different cultural backgrounds. in the way of Government income than the Both schools are excited by the opportunity for normal benefits and are expected to find work the students to learn about and appreciate the or be completing an approved training course or experiences of people from other cultures. study. Many will initially study English language Did some of the students also have through the Adult Migrant English Program misconceptions through lack of knowledge (AMEP), which is provided by the Government, or education? as learning English is critical to settling I think these misconceptions are due to not successfully, becoming a part of the community only a lack of knowledge and education, but also and gaining employment. lack of exposure or contact with refugees. Most How does the event fit into the high school students, and indeed the broader community, curriculum? have no contact with refugees and limited The event fits into the high school curriculum contact with migrants. The students and the primarily under the Human Society and Its broader community are influenced by the media, Environment (HSIE) Course, which includes with regular reporting of the ‘boat people’ and geography and legal studies subjects. Junior images of Africa in drought. Parental attitudes geography (Years 7-10) looks at what Australia also play a role in shaping student beliefs. does to help refugees, while Legal Studies (Years Tell us about what’s involved in your role as 11-12) looks more intensely into human rights a Migrant Settlement Project Worker? and issues surrounding refugees and asylum My position is funded by the Department of seekers. Immigration and Citizenship under the auspices The event is particularly relevant to these of Manning Valley Neighbourhood Services and students, as they will have the opportunity to ask is designed to provide information, referrals, questions and discuss issues and ideas directly casework and advocacy for newly arrived with the people who have or are still living with migrants and humanitarian entrants settling what the high school students are studying in a in the Greater Taree, Great Lakes, Gloucester, classroom and see on the TV and in ewspapers. Hastings and Kempsey local government areas. The issues are difficult for most people to The role is very broad, as helping someone
to settle into their community is very individual. The aim is to assist people to be self-reliant, independent, and to participate in the community socially and economically. This can range from helping people find English classes, showing them how to catch the bus, to supporting people at the Police Station. I also spend a lot of time educating clients and other organisations about how to access and use interpreters. Another part of my job is supporting the Hastings and Taree Multicultural Groups, which is always a lot of fun. There is also a community development aspect, raising awareness of multiculturalism in the community through organising events such as this one. I also work with other organisations to hold events including Harmony Day, Multicultural Health Week and Multicultural Carers Week Event. From your work experience, what are some of the cultural barriers multicultural residents of the Manning-Great Lakes encounter? I find the biggest cultural barrier for multicultural residents is language. If someone has low level English skills or isn’t confident with their English, they tend to stay home a lot and become isolated. Sometimes when they are out in the community, we tend to talk quite quickly and use a lot of slang, making it difficult for them to understand what we are saying. Often just slowing down can be very helpful. There are also the added challenges of learning to drive in another country, understanding new systems of law and culture, and learning how to access services in the community. Generally most people are accepting of our multicultural residents but there is always room for further understanding. Thank you Jane. Interview By Karen Farrell.
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SHOWCASING THE BENEFITS T.H.E (Technology Health Education) Exchange Expo & Seminar Program was the response by Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast to showcase the capacity and benefits of high broadband speeds and the use of technology to businesses, individuals and the entire community.
N
ational Broadband Network (NBN) is much more than building infrastructure. Broadband embodies the concepts of digital applications and innovation. With the rollout of the NBN across the region now imminent, the potential for growth in innovation is phenomenal.
Regional Development Australia – Mid North Coast is embracing the future and bringing together partners so we can experience the speeds that the NBN has promised.
The first event in 2011 was a tremendous success, with over 35 Booth exhibitors and sponsors networking and demonstrating the benefits of high speed broadband to a wide range of potential clients and organisations. Many also sought to commence the recruitment for labour requirements. With more than 700 attendees, the project has been seen by NBN Co as the model for national engagement with business and community.
Everyone has heard about the NBN, but there are many businesses that don’t understand the difference that it will make to their business.
Peter Tregilgas, Executive Officer of Regional Development Australia – Mid North Coast said, “While we are still waiting for the NBN,
• Demonstrate the equipment that residents will have in their homes.
security for patient data, and health and education training. Education Online education, virtual classrooms, video conferencing, e-learning solutions, internet security and education software.
NBN Co Discovery Truck – The NBN Co Discovery Truck is a 23-tonne interactive demonstration centre which showcases what’s available on the NBN through outdoor displays, high definition video screens, cameras and audio equipment designed to:
Business T.H.E Exchange exhibition demonstrates how organisations can improve productivity, reduce costs and create new revenue streams. Service providers (including Principal Sponsor – Telstra) will offer demonstrations of technologies, platforms and products that will improve productivity, reduce costs, boost customer engagement such as telecommunications, broadband, wireless, VOIP, cloud computing, Internet security, content management systems, online banking and payments and practical applications that the NBN will bring to the region.
• Bring to life the benefits that the network can deliver for health, education and business services;
Health Medical and Health ICT, patient monitoring, tele-psychiatry, tele-radiology, e-prescribing, aged care services, transfer and
“It is exciting that we have been able to ensure that the venue is connected at the promised 100 Mbps that will eventually be available to everyone.”
What will you see at T.H.E Exchange?
Consumers Connected homes, pricing and plans for NBN connection and new technology solutions available. You’ve heard about high speed broadband, and now you can experience it at T.H.E Exchange at the C.ex Coffs on June 21, 2012. Visit the website at www.theexchange.net. au for full details of the exhibition and the seminar program. This is a must attend event for every business consumer in the region – and it’s FREE.
SHOWCASING THE BENEFITS OF HIGH SPEED BROADBAND
C.ex COFFS HARBOUR 21 ST JUNE 2012 FREE EXPO FEATURING NBN Co. discovery truck Telstra connected home display Video conferencing examples from the health and education sectors ViOP providers Full day seminar schedule from industry leaders REGISTER FOR THIS FREE EVENT HERE
www.theexchange.net.au PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY
PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
EVENT PARTNERS
PREMIUM SPONSORS
@RDA_THEEXCHANGE
MID NORTH COAST NSW ASSOCIATE + SPONSOR
ASSOCIATE SPONSORS
MEDIA PARTNERS
CORPORATE PARTNER
manning-great lakes focus 15
Manning-Great Lakes
Cover Dish Blueberry and Apple Bread & Butter Pudding with a delicious cappuccino from Coffee Grind.
eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android mobiles. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 16 manning-great lakes focus.
eat. Why not come try our range of teas at Lilly Pilly Café.
Club Taree
The Bellevue Hotel Bistro
If you are looking for a place to enjoy a warm beverage over the cooler months, look no further than the Lilly Pilly Café, situated at Club Taree. Featuring a range of Tea and Coffee flavours, you’ll find your perfect blend to enjoy. The café also features a range of delectable desserts, cakes and slices to complement your beverage. Bring your friends and enjoy a cuppa today. Lilly Pilly Café; open 10am daily.
Have you experienced the Bellevue Hotel Bistro lately? Bring the whole family down and enjoy a great meal by the pool. Afterwards, the kids can have a dip or play in the games room. Come down on a Friday night and enjoy some quality fresh local seafood in the bistro and listen to great live music, or come and join in the fun on one of our feature nights (Monday – poker, Wednesday – trivia, Thursday – karaoke).
Chef Kevin Williams.
Be sure to try our new lobster special, which is available every Tuesday for lunch (Half – $20.00 / Full – $28.00) or everyday lunch steak special for just $9.50 (to avoid disappointment please pre-order and pay for lobsters three days in advance.) Also, keep your eyes out for shopper dockets, to receive your second main meal for just $5.
Our Chefs Hayley & Jason.
Our experienced, friendly staff look forward to seeing you soon.
121 Wingham Rd, Taree t 6539 4000 w www.clubtaree.com.au
Manning Street, Tuncurry t 6554 6577
*Opening times vary.
Open 11:30am till 2:00pm every day and 5:30pm until 8:00pm weeknights.
Bluewater Bar and Restaurant There is always something happening at Bluewater. Live music Wednesday and Friday nights and Sunday afternoons, showcasing local artists. Throughout the week we have $15 schnitzel nights on Mondays and Wednesdays; Tuesdays are our 2 for 1 VIP. The very popular $12 steak night is also on Wednesday nights. Lunches for $12.50 Tuesday to Friday. Thursday nights kids eat free and of course, Friday has happy hour between 5-6pm, happy hour Sundays from 3pm to 4pm. Bluewater Bar run their courtesy bus every Friday and Saturday night; we can pick you up from home and drop you back when the night is over ... no taxi fare, and you can leave the car at home.
Raw Sugar Café Our food is prepared by our qualified chefs, using only the freshest local ingredients and served by experienced and friendly staff. Our specials board changes weekly! Don’t forget our fantastic fresh fruit smoothies, frappes and fresh juices. Come in and enjoy the five star experience today. Open for breakfast at 7.30am, lunch from 11.30am and afternoon tea until 4pm. Freshest local ingredients.
214 Victoria Street, Taree t 6550 0137 open 7.30am to 4pm.
The Crew at Bluewater.
Ocean Street Flynns Beach Resort t 6583 5730 or 6583 9073 open 7 Days Monday 3pm-late TuesdaySunday 10am - late manning-great lakes focus 17
eat.
Coffee Grind
Bent on Food
Coffee Grind is a boutique coffee shop and café located in the Main Street of Forster. Friendly owners, Matt and Cara, invite you to come down and enjoy their beautiful breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea. With gourmet cakes, slices, freshly baked muffins and of course ... ‘the best coffee in town’.
Pop by and experience our new backyard garden – a great place to bring the family. Upcoming classes: • Men Only Indian Cooking, Thursday 14 June, 6 - 9pm. • Italian Cheesemaking weekend with Carole Willman, 16 and 17 June, all weekend. • Gluten free entertaining, Saturday 30 June, 10 am – 1.30 pm. • Cooking with Kurma Dasa, Saturday 7 July, 10am – 2pm. • Ask about our gourmet hinterland tours. • Group discounts apply for all cooking classes – call 0419 490 312.
Owners Cara and Matt.
Bec House with Donna Carrier.
95 Isabella Street, Wingham NSW t 6557 0727 w www.bentonfood.com.au
59 Wharf Street Forster t 6557 5155
open breakfast and lunch 7 days a week (phone to check hours on public holidays).
open 7 days. From 8am.
Now open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
Bean Bar
FLOW Espresso
Open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch, with an exclusive café menu, and à la carte dinner Thursday to Saturday. Tony, Ray and the staff at Bean Bar work tirelessly to prepare amazing meals in a waterfront venue, designed and fully licensed to cater for intimate functions such as weddings, business seminars and birthdays. Bean Bar has now introduced an amazing range of seafood, including oysters, seafood plates and platters, as well as expanding the night dining à la carte menu.
FLOW Espresso Bar now fully heated for winter – hide away a rainy day! Indulge yourself in warm winter pleasures of the culinary kind with home made soups, oven roasted pot pies, or our freshly grilled vegetable and soft feta Turkish press. Soak up the scents of freshly ground and brewed coffee, with the crackle of the slow combustion fire by your side. Treat your loved ones on Friday nights with an intimate evening of live accoustic music and a chef inspired Australiana menu. A fortnightly Sunday session employs one of our many talented local Mid North Coast musicians – it starts at 1pm ‘til 3.30pm with a divine concoction of Tapas, cocktails and locally brewed beer on tap. Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/flowcafe to keep up to date on upcoming events and changes.
1 Pulteney St, Taree, set on the Manning River t 6550 0022 w www.beanbarcafe.com.au open 7 days breakfast and lunch and dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
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Owners Ray & Tony.
31 David St, Old Bar t 6557 4224 open Tue to Sunday, 8am to 4pm and Fri and Sat nights from 6pm. Closed Mondays. Fully licensed. Bookings recommended.
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Bowers Café Bowers delights in making all food in house, using the freshest local produce and serving locally roasted coffee. Perfect for functions and intimate weddings. Only 5 minutes from Taree, with a peaceful rural outlook. Bower’s Cafe & Gallery is proud to present an exhibition of Valley Industries Skills for Living Arts Display throughout June.
461 Kolodong Rd, Taree t 6550 1230 open 9am – 5pm, 7 Days. Closed public holidays.
Haley Sexton-Holdsworth // Head Chef Bellevue Hotel Bistro.
Beach Bums Situated overlooking one of Forster’s most beautiful beaches, Beach Bums Café is the perfect place to relax with a coffee or soup in the warm winter sunshine while watching the majestic migrating humpback whales. Choose from a wide range of breakfast and lunch items and weekly changing specials, followed by coffee and cake. This is certainly the place to be seven days a week. Winter opening times seven days a week, 6.30am - 3.30pm (weather permitting).
North & Beach Streets, Forster Main Beach. t 6555 2840 w beachbumscafe.com.au open seven days 6:30am to 3:30pm (weather permitting).
Owners Kate and Darrin.
ow many years have you order, but when I get the chance, I like to been working in the food do an occasional shift running our front of industry, and how did you house. get started? Tell us about the variety of food options I have been working in available on your menu? the food industry now for around ten years. We aim to cater for everyone here at the I started out doing a bit of waitressing as Belle; we have special meal deals day and a second job after I completed my HSC. I night (see ad for details); we do great steaks, enjoyed it so much, that I decided to pursue beautiful fresh seafood, and warm, hearty hospitality as a career, as I loved the meals, all at affordable prices. All our atmosphere of both the kitchen produce is sourced locally where and front of house. possible. What do you love most What is your favourite meal ing m co el w ve lo about your job? to prepare and why? I “ r new people to ou I love interacting with I love my winter food! bistro and I loveall our customers! I have Roasts, soups, stews, braised catching up with l rfu been working at the dishes; I enjoy cooking any of our wonde ” . rs la Bellevue now for around dish that I know I am going to gu re seven years, and in that enjoy eating! But this time of time I have had the pleasure of year, it has got to be our braised making some great friends. lamb shanks. I love welcoming new people to our What can patrons look forward to bistro, and I love catching up with all of our enjoying at the Bellevue Hotel Bistro this wonderful regulars. winter? What does a typical day hold for you? This winter is going to be fantastic at the This time of year is great in the kitchen. I Bellevue. We are doing lots of warm, hearty start work in the morning and get into my meals in the bistro, all at affordable prices. prep work for the day; once I get the cookers There is great live music every week, fun fired up, the kitchen is so warm and cozy. I feature nights in the main bar area around love it! We open every day for lunch from the cozy wood fire, great specials, and 11.30 am ‘til 2pm and 5.30pm ‘til 8pm giveaways in the bottle shop. Come and weeknights for dinner. Most of the time I enjoy a cold winter’s day by the fire with a work in the kitchen, cooking your meals to yummy meal and a beverage. manning-great lakes focus 19
focussocial.
social scene.
here did that month go? It’s almost tax time ... I am kept aware of this, because my partner is an accountant, and we are both flat chat between all too brief visits to our new property for some peace and quiet – which almost always becomes just a quiet place to work. I must boast, however, that there was a lovely trip to Cairns during the month, mostly a working holiday for Grahame, but I had fun with Wally the Wrasse and my favourite friend, Grant – Grant Burge that is. Enough about me ... let’s talk about what’s been going on in other people’s lives. Weddings, parties and Mother’s Day were on the agenda, along with a few fundraisers and a cattle parade. On April 29 we held a ‘Plates for Mates’, national fundraising event, conceived by members of the hospitality industry to raise funds for celebrity chef and caterer, Matt Golinski. Matt tragically lost his wife, Rachael, and their three daughters, Starlia, Willow and Sage Golinski in a home fire on Boxing Day 2011. Blake Noble and the Ninja Stars performed on a rainy afternoon out back at Bent on Food in the newly renovated backyard. Guests enjoyed the unique, percussive based, high energy, feel good acoustic music, that had the audience enthralled. Money was raised through raffles and donations from businesses, with a tally of $1,150. The handcrafted copper water feature made and donated by Gavin Munro from Zeus Plumbing was a popular prize. Donations also came from fellow hospitality suppliers and providers, including: The Corner Restaurant, Port Macquarie; Near River Produce; The Other Chef Fine Foods; Bago Vineyards; PFD Food Services; and Wingham Beef. Local businesses, Wingham Eyecare and Bent on Life, also donated goods. Bent on Food donated a percentage of the
W
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with Donna Carrier from Bent on Food.
day’s takings to the charity, and the band also the coming together of the local community, reduced their fees, to give more money to this which saw people young and old socialising, worthy cause. dancing and playing in the café overlooking the I was fortunate to be at two special birthtranquil Manning River in Taree. Wild Fig Café days in the one night; the first one, which we is owned and operated by my friend Janeece catered for, was Geoff Fuller’s 70th. I enjoy Irving, who has had many years working in the catering for Judy and Geoff, as they make us industry, both in her own cafés, and alongside feel like part of the family. Canapes others. I wish her luck with her new were enjoyed, along with 40 of venture. their close friends and family And now for a lovely wedin their beautiful home. It ding held a few months was a lovely night, with ago, but one I wanted to some very special helpshare with the readers. Weddings, ’s er h ers, including Enid and ot The engagement of M d an es parti e the grandchildren. Kathryn Bell and Jim Day were on thith a After the birthday Boyce began with a agenda, along ws and cake was served, I romantic proposal on few fundraiser e. a cattle parad dashed off to Greg the shores of Lough Newell’s 50th birthday Swilly in Ireland. Of party in Youngs Road. No course Kathryn said yes, catering required here, as and plans were made for a Greg and his lovely wife, Lauren, romantic wedding on the banks are the owners of Linga Longa, producof the Manning River in Taree – a magic ing local beef. Not too hard to guess what backdrop for the musical quintet from Sinfonia, was on the menu there – yummy Scotch fillet. who serenaded the 80 guests. The couple chose Lauren is a great cook, so food was aplenty. Frangipanis as their theme, as they are beautiGreg’s party was fancy dress, with the theme of ful, fragrant and hold a special romantic notion Beverly Hillbillies – so some of the locals didn’t for them. Jim often picks Kathryn a Frangipani have to dress up too much! Happy birthday to wear in her hair. Greg! The floral arrangements and beautiful Autumn in the Manning Valley is delightful – bouquets were created by Judy of Blooming especially if you have time to spend a Saturday Marvellous. Anne-Marie Barnett conducted the afternoon in the sun with some close friends, service beautifully and gave the happy couple good food and beautiful music. On Saturday 24 the chance to write their own vows, making it March, a day of acoustic music was held at the very personal. Best man was Graham Dun of new Wild Fig Café to mark the official opening. Taree, Jim’s long term mate, and the Best Maid The afternoon was kicked off with charming was Danielle Varrica, Kathryn’s daughter. Craig Celtic tunes from Peter Amos and Clare Rourke Huth, The Diceman, was a fun and upbeat MC in the courtyard. Then Afro Moses brought for the reception at St John’s Hall, where guests the crowd inside and blew them away with his enjoyed canapes created by John Holm. amazing array of instruments and traditional The yummy white chocolate mudcake was African songs, with his own unique twist. made by Sugar Art Cakes Taree, and Wedding It was a day to celebrate cultural diversity and Wotnots supplied the dress. Congratulations,
Kathryn and Jim. Good Beginnings held an intimate dinner for 20 at Bent on Food on Friday 11 May. Guests enjoyed a wonderful two-course meal prepared by chef Paul Kelly, with perfect pannacottas that made Aaron, our first year Apprentice, pretty pleased with himself. A charity auction was performed by Peter Colless. Afterwards, Rosemary Sinclair and Merrick Spicer gave an update on the wonderful initiatives that Good Beginnings is working on. Restaurants and cafés were booked out for Mother’s Day, with mums all over the region enjoying a treat from their offspring. Breakfast in bed, a tasty lunch or picnics were all on the agenda. The weather was warm, apart from a slight breeze that almost made it to a wind. It was absolutely perfect in our new garden dining area, where we were fortunate to have the talented Warren Targett playing some pretty cool tunes, that were enjoyed by mums of all ages. Children chased each other through the garden and ate on the mini tables and chairs, while parents relaxed; it was perfect. I hope that all the lovely mums out there enjoyed their day. Lower Mid North Coast Family Law Pathways Network held an evening talk with Federal Magistrate Matthew Myers at the Taree Regional Art Gallery. Matthew Myers is the first Indigenous lawyer to be appointed to a Federal court, and is also the recipient of the NSW Law Society 2011 President's Medal. Guests enjoyed a glass of wine and some lovely food among the beautiful hat exhibition, while they heard Matthew speak on the delivery of family dispute resolution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. I would love to hear from you if you have any social events, weddings, parties ... anything! Send pics and info to: donna.carrier@bigpond.com Cheers, Donna.
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SteveAttkins. Ste from Great Lakes Winery
D cover your i er gr e..
Did you know there are an amazing number of grape varietals? The list goes through the alphabet and beyond – far too many to count. This got me thinking there must be a varietal to match every personality.
F
or a bit of fun, lets see what varietal you are … CABERNET SAUVIGNON is a very neat, tight berry, and in Australia is often referred to as Cab Sav ... because let’s face it – it's way too posh a word for those of us who don’t aspire to being French. The personality of a Cab Sav type of person is one who is neat and tidy, uses big words which no one else really understands, displays masculine tastes and habits (e.g. smokes cigars) and skulks around wearing dark clothing, looking rather intense. Good company in a dimly lit hole in the wall bar. SAUVIGNON BLANC Is a pretty, dainty, lightly coloured grape and still a little difficult to pronounce. Be cautious of this inner grape personality – do not be fooled by its friendly, innocent appearance, as what lurks beneath can be quite acidic, with a very dry wit. It is easy to be drawn in close but once you start to feel comfortable and expose yourself, the Sav Blanc personality will suck in its cheeks and leave you high and dry. A person to
have one drink with, then make a SHIRAZ quick exit. One of the easier pronunciations – not MERLOT too much complexity here. A result of Only one word, but it can still go indulging in a little too much spice in wrong, pronounced Mer-low, not their life is a tendency to be unreliable Mer-lot (we will speak French, whether and inconsistent ... you always need we like it or not!) Straight away to be on your toes with a Shiraz you feel comfortable – a personality; never assume lovely round, chubby you know how it's going berry that just smiles to be. A little bold at you. and boisterous, We may not have is th A Merlot with a fair share of in s found ourselve varities, ur fo of personality opinions. t small lis ... there doesn’t have When the Shiraz but rest assurede in us r grap ne in an is great depth, persona walks into all! and they know the room, everyone it and are happy knows they have with themselves. arrived. You need to For the majority of take a good mouthful or us who like to be nice to two to determine the mood others and have it returned, we like and what the tone of the occasion a few Merlots in our circle of friends, will be. The Shiraz personality is to be because they just make us feel good. shared with others, best in a crowd, A Merlot personality will come where deep side conversations can be whenever and wherever invited, had if chosen but can be avoided if the help with the cooking, put the kids first mouthful was too harsh. to bed, do the dishes, sleep in any We may not have found ourselves space available, then get up and make in this small list of four varieties, but a fabulous breakfast for all before rest assured ... there is an inner grape mowing the lawn on their way out. in us all! manning-great lakes focus 21
focusinterview.
Delltones. The Delltones Keep raging ... stop the aging! Australian music legends The Delltones will be returning to perform in Taree and Forster during July, with a fantastic show that sees the group returning to their roots as a four-part harmony band.
“Today the
The first half of the show band has come consists of The Delltones' well full circle, r returning to th-ei loved classics from their early ur fo a as s root years, like Get A Little Dirt on part harmony vocal quartet days to the Your Hands, Come a Little Bit band.” transformation to a fiveCloser, Hangin’ Five and Gee. The piece vocal band in the early second half of the show consists of 1980s. This transformation led to songs from their full-blown revival in the the band’s resurgence and the chart topping mid '80s, with songs from their classic Rock ‘n’ revival album, Bop Til Ya Drop. Today, the band Roll album, Bop Til Ya Drop and Ticked Pink ... has come full circle, returning to their roots as a songs like Get a Job, Papa Oom Mow Mow and four-part harmony band. The Delltones remain Mr Bassman. one of the most consistent live entertainers in The Delltones have been entertaining Australia, with arguably the longest performing audiences, playing, celebrating and elevating and recording history for a vocal harmony band Rock ’n’ Roll for over 50 years. Ian 'Peewee' with an original member. Wilson, founding member and the most recognisable Delltone, the tall bass man, has kept the band alive from the original
Don’t miss the Delltones Live – they’re better than ever!
Than Ever Beetter Than They’re Better
Club Taree Friday 27th July, 8:00pm Bookings: 6539 4000 or www.clubtaree.com.au
Club Forster
Saturday 28th July, 8:00pm Bookings: 6591 6591 or www.clubforster.com.au Presented by
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Keep raging ... stop the aging!
Peewee Wilson & the boys from the Delltones continue to harmonise their way into audiences' hearts, with their iconic sound that has stood the test of time.
A
t the 2011 Australian Club unashamedly out there to please the crowd. Entertainment Awards, How do audience members react to your you were presented with shows these days? a Lifetime Achievement The reaction has been very much the Award by former Channel same right the way through. There is a 9 news anchor and stalwart, Brian certain consistency in our relationship with Henderson … Your connection with Brian our audience. We have been very fortunate. goes back to the Bandstand days… Part of the reason for the Delltones being Brian was very gracious. He hasn't been around today is that we took on a whole new seen in public in ages, and it was just so great audience back in the '80s, when we had a to see him come out and present the award full-blown revival and brought out a couple of ... and of course, I was very thrilled about it. albums – including the revival album. This also I still keep in touch with some of spurred interest from our original fanthe so-called Bandstand family, base, who remembered us from including Sandy Scott and back in the Bandstand days. Col Joye plus a few others You’re performing in The Delltones from the early days but in Taree and Forster in July. have never re- r ou t ou particular, Brian and his The first half of the ally thought ab s that lovely wife. show consists of wellfuture, and I guesn from sort of perceptioayed In your acceptance loved classics and the back then has st until speech at these second half consists of up with us right awards, you talked songs from your revival today.” about how ironic it in the mid '80s … was to receive a Lifetime In the early part of the Achievement Award as when show, there will be an acoustic The Delltones started out, people unplugged set – we will be doing songs told you not to give up your day job! from the Delltones' original repertoire, from That's exactly right. We are talking about before we even went into the studio. In the the late '50s or early '60s when we didn't second part of the show, we’re doing songs really have a music industry out here, and we recorded. We had 15 songs on the charts it seemed that Rock ‘n’ Roll was seen as a back in the years from 1959 to 1964. passing fad – which would soon be over. Of Chris Cheney from The Living End said course, we ignored that completely! in an interview in Insider magazine that We thought if we are going to give up our his first memory of a concert he went to day job, we'll do it right away and just see was of The Delltones, which he said was what happens! This attitude still prevails with just brilliant. That’s a nice accolade from a us even today. The Delltones have never really younger and successful musician! thought about our future, and I guess that It was indeed. I’ve been a fan of those guys sort of perception from back then has stayed since their early days, because of the genuine with us right up until today. connection they really have with the Rock ‘n’ The Delltones have always loved performing Roll period. and of course, there have been many changes Thanks Peewee. in the group, but we love what we do and are Interview by Karen Farrell.
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2011 Emerging Artist Award Winner Katrina Norman: Blue City.
2011 Landscape/ Seascape Winner Sally West: South Boomy Bus Stop.
PAC I F I C PA L M S
T h e P a c i f i c P a l m s A r t Fe s t i v a l c e l e b r a t e s i t s 2 0 t h a n n i v e r s a r y t h i s J u n e . I n i t i a l l y e s t a b l i s h e d t o r a i s e m o n e y f o r P a c i f i c P a l m s P r i m a r y S c h o o l , t h e f e s t i v a l h a s r a i s e d a p p r o x i m a t e l y $ 6 0 , 0 0 0 o v e r t h e 2 0 y e a r s s i n c e i t s i n c e p t i o n i n 1 9 9 2 . F r a n c e s G e y e r, P re sident of the fe stival, tells us how it has maintained its momentum in the local community for two decade s ...
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ould you please Richardson, and sponsors who donate money provide us with a so that we can offer prizes to the amazing brief history of the artists who exhibit their artworks! Pacific Palms Art Tell us about the various prize categories. Festival? There are 6 categories artists can enter Way back in1992, their works into: The Human Figure; Still Life; Ken Pares, the then Principal of Pacific Palms Landscape/Seascape; Photography; Naturalist; Public School, conceived the idea for an Arts and Emerging Artist. The overall acquisitive Festival. Ken Pares wanted to encourage winner receives $2,500. The winner of each aspiring artists, as well as introduce a cultural category receives $500, with the Emerging event to Pacific Palms. It was also a fresh, new Artist receiving $200. Anyone can enter their approach for raising funds for the school. Two work in the Emerging Artist section, as long as parents, Judy Gagg and Jenny Parker, along they have never received any previous awards. with the other staff at the school, assisted him. There is an Environmental Award given for an Ever since then, there has been a steady stream artwork which makes a strong Environmental of school staff, parents, community and statement. This award is sponsored by committee members who have three local environmentalists: Cl. given their time and energy to Linda Gill, Gillian Courtice and making the art festival what Leighton Llewellyn. Visitors We are hoping it is today. to the festival are also the weather will How does the festival asked to nominate their d that be good to us an ake a operate, and who favourite artwork and at everyone will mattend to t are the main players the end of each festival, or special eff e th at th so ar behind the scene? ye we announce the People’s this ry Fes20th Anniversa as the We commence Choice Award, with the tival goes down planning the festival in winning artist receiving best ever!” March each year. This year $200. there is a committee of four: To assist in fostering young me, in my role as President of the talent, the festival includes a festival, plus Anne Masters (Secretary/ Youth Category. Each year students Co-ordinator), May Heemskerk (Treasurer), aged 5 - 16 years from schools in the Great Lei Tillman (Catering and Minute Secretary) Lakes region are invited to enter their artworks along with Pacific Palms Public School Principal, or photography. Photography is proving Kerry Tulloch and P&C representative, Matt to be very popular; therefore, last year we Bannerman. We rely on a great deal of support decided to create a Photography Section, from the school staff and parents, as well as well as an Artwork Section. This year the as many generous volunteers to make it all Assistant Principal, Lyn Wood, is organising the happen. competition. Sally West, a local artist currently Many of the staff from Pacific Palms Public exhibiting in New York, has agreed to be judge. School serve supper and drinks at the opening Students' works selected by the judge are night. A lovely local caterer has provided exhibited at the Art Festival, and the students supper for the last two years at very reasonable also receive art supply vouchers. The artworks rates. Dessert is provided by parents from the and photography we receive each year from school. Many other parents and community budding young artists is just wonderful. It is members band together to set up the a very difficult decision to select so few to exhibition and man the ticket and sales desks. display. For many of the visitors coming to the And then there’s our amazing patron, Reg festival, the Youth Category exhibition is a real
“
highlight! Reg Richardson, who was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2007, is judging the main prize. Reg has served on the boards of the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Ted Noffs Foundation. He is also patron of the festival and ads great kudos to the event. Tell us about Reg's involvement over the years. Reg is a very colourful character. Reg was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his 'Service to the Visiual Arts as a Supporter, Patron and Collector and to the Community through a range of Social Welfare and Medical Research organisations'. We were extremely fortunate when Reg offered to be our patron. Reg and his wife, Sally, are one of our major sponsors, and they have brought many of their associates on board as sponsors. Reg is responsible for the Pacific Palms Public School having its own private art collection. It was Reg who suggested that the overall winning entry of each festival become acquisitive, and therefore the property of the school. Every year Reg sources a judge for us, from his many contacts in the art world. Last year, Tristan Sharp, Assistant Director of Newcastle Regional Gallery, judged the festival. We felt it appropriate to ask Reg to judge this 20th Anniversary Festival, and he graciously accepted. Artists can win up to $6,000. How does the sponsorship component work? The Art Festival is sponsored by approx. 30 businesses and private donors. Many of the sponsors are local, which is wonderful. Last year we were very fortunate to have another major sponsor come on board. This gentleman has bought numerous artworks over many festivals, and we are sincerely grateful for his sponsorship – as we are for all our sponsors! Each year in March we contact our sponsors and ask them for their generous support yet again, in order to raise approx. $6,000 needed to cover the prize money for the upcoming festival. We have an engraved sponsors’ board
on display at the festival each year. If anyone reading this article is interested in becoming a sponsor for next year's festival, please contact the Pacific Palms Public School on 6554 0249. How many people are you hoping to attend this milestone 20th anniversary festival? We envisage over 200 people will again attend the Opening Night. The sale of artworks also begins. Last year we sold over $8,535 in artworks (the Art Festival takes a percentage of sales towards its fundraising). This year we also have something special happening at the festival. A special exhibition by 'Yili' (Aboriginal Ceramic Design at Great Lakes TAFE Art and Design School) will be on display, and items will be available for purchase. 'Yili' was officially launched at the Manning Regional Art Gallery in December last year. Grace Cochrane, former senior curator at the Sydney Powerhouse Museum, described the exhibition as: “Very contemporary and yet drawn very distinctly from a sense of cultural identity”. In addition to the Ceramic Design course, Great Lakes TAFE is also running a series of workshops to introduce younger Aboriginal students to design. The 'Yili' ceramics will be a wonderful addition to our photography and paintings on display, at this our special anniversary festival. What sort of educational or cultural programs does the money raised go towards at the school? Money raised has always been used to support the school’s learning and tteaching programs. Last year, however, the money was used for the much needed renovation of the school library. We are so thankful to everyone for their generous support. Pacific Palms Public School is a gorgeous school of about 250 students, and the money they receive from the festival is very well needed and used. Thank you Frances. Interview by Karen Farrell. manning-great lakes focus
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tartt. It all started with a passion for coffee. Over a decade in the making, Michael Tartt set about opening tartt with one goal in mind – perfect coffee. Together with Jack and Jenna Yeates, the tartt team has done everything within their power to provide its customers with the best coffee experience. Though the premises are small, the vision is big – a place to get the perfect cup. ichael has always dreamed of owning his own café – a place where people could come to relax, meet with friends or get that jolt they need to get them through the working day. After researching different avenues extensively – including franchises and buying already existing cafés – it became obvious that although these options would certainly be easier, it would be a compromised dream. The way to ensure that the finest coffee and a truly unique experience would be provided to potential customers would be to start from scratch. “I have always been seriously committed to sourcing and serving the very best coffee we could find. I wanted the best: the best beans, the best machine, the best location. Quality was never going to be sacrificed for price,” says Michael. Together, Michael, Jack and Jenna found the ideal location and set
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about creating the dream – building tartt from the ground up. Creating tartt not only included designing and building the premises, but searching Australia wide for the perfect coffee suppliers and espresso machine. After multiple trips to Melbourne and Sydney searching for inspiration and immersing themselves into urban coffee culture, they found their perfect coffee match in iconic roasters, Five Senses. Unlike many other coffee suppliers, Five Senses do not run their own cafés, but focus on making sure their clients are given comprehensive support to ensure they can offer their customers the best coffee experience possible – exactly what tartt was about. Through extensive study at The Australian Barista Academy run by the Five Senses team in Melbourne, it became apparent to the tartt team that in order to provide a consistently flawless coffee, top of the line equipment must be used. Sparing no cost, they use one of the best espresso machines on the market – a Synesso
Sab abre, br and they have individual Mazzer grinders for their th heir eiir house hous hous usee Sabre, blend single origin and even e en decaf. decaf blend, “Great beans and machinery are obviously important, but equally important is recognising the different preferences of individual customers. Not only do we use a different blend for our black coffees, but also use multiple brewing styles for a completely different experience – from espresso to clever drippers,” says Jack. The café also offers a rotating single origin, showcasing beans from different coffee growing regions all over the world. This changes monthly, providing customers with a dynamic coffee experience. While coffee was the passion tartt was born from, they also offer an amazing breakfast and lunch menu. With traditional breakfasts, from the familiar bacon and egg variety to more exotic fare such as the ‘Eggs Exotica’ and ‘Smashed’ avocado and fetta, there is something for everyone. Tartt is also open for gourmet pizza from Thursday night – Sunday night, ‘til 9pm. “We love coffee, but we love beer too. We’re fully licensed and have beer and cider on tap, so if you don’t feel like a coffee, we certainly have other beverages to fill you up!” says Jack.
Barista
coffee
lovers
P R O F I L E
f o c u s
f e a t u r e
coffee lovers... Impress your friends with great espresso coffee, with a TAFE hands-on coffee making workshop.
Coffee Making Workshop. North Coast TAFE Great Lakes Campus has introduced an evening barista course for coffee buffs who want to make and serve their own barista quality coffee at home, or just enjoy a unique coffee experience. Led by teachers with a wealth of commercial experience, the course will cover the basics of good coffee making in just three and a half hours.
Jack Meet the Barista: Tartt Café
ears living in the Forster region? We’ve lived in Forster for a few years now. My wife and I are both from Darwin originally, but we’ve lived all over the place – from little towns in South Australia to Tokyo, Japan. We were getting to that age and stage where we were thinking about settling. We wanted somewhere we could raise our family and enjoy a laid back lifestyle. We travelled the east coast of Australia in search of somewhere which would tick all the boxes, and Forster was our pick. We love it here ... the beaches, the lake, the landscape, the people – it’s idyllic. Although, since moving here, life hasn’t exactly been ‘laid back’; we’ve started a café and started a family in the same year! Our little boy, Oscar, is 10 months now. He’s made an awesome life even better. What do you like about baristing? It’s one of those jobs where you get to constantly challenge yourself, get better, make your product better. The morning coffee is such an important part of many people’s day, and I’m happy to be part of that. I don’t look at it as ‘just another coffee’; I try to make sure every coffee is the best it can be. I love the café culture too – talking with our regulars, meeting new people; it’s great. Working with an organic product also means that it’s dynamic and always changing. The café itself is always changing too – some days it’s really relaxed and chilled, and others it’s absolutely buzzing and you have to be on your toes. What made you decide to pursue this as your profession? I have always loved coffee. I have always appreciated the whole experience – whether it’s grabbing a coffee on the run, or having a long
stretched out Sunday brunch. The café scene in Australia is evolving too. When it comes to coffee, we really are world leaders. Australians know good coffee, and they appreciate it. We’ve got that carefree stereotype, but we’re actually quite critical of our coffee. People aren’t happy with instant coffee these days. They are willing to go out of their way for good coffee. I love being part of that. Do you have any formal training? Yes, I’ve studied extensively at the Australian Barista Academy in Melbourne and have worked with the best baristas in the industry. There’s a lot more to it than ‘how to make a coffee’, or ‘how to use the machine’; making a perfect cup of coffee is quite a process and there are lots of components – the origin, harvesting, processing, roasting and equipment all have an effect on the end result. The way coffee is served is such a personal choice for people. What’s your favourite way to have your coffee? Everyone has a differing opinion on the best way to drink coffee. Some like it black, others with milk, double shots, ristretto, skim, soy, warm, extra hot, in mugs, as piccolos – it’s really different for everyone. My choice of coffee changes all the time. I try our single origins every month and see how they react with my palate. At the moment, I’m drinking a double shot flat white at around 60 degrees. In ceramic. I don’t like drinking out of paper cups – but again, that’s a personal choice! Some people actually like drinking out of paper cups. Strange, but true. We’ve seen some pretty creative latte art recently. Do you have a particular creation that is your favourite? I’m into free pouring. I like to create my designs using the milk as the tool, not using stencils or needles to manipulate the look of the coffee after it has been poured. I’m more of a humble rosetta type.
Barista teacher, Ken Oldfield, said participants will enjoy a hands-on experience grinding and extracting coffee, including the art of texturing milk to make the perfect latte, cappuccino or flat white. These short but intensive workshops will have limited numbers, to ensure all participants get the most practical experience from the course. “We have a brand new custom-designed barista kitchen with industry best coffee machines, tools and equipment,” Ken said. “During the course,
each student will receive personalised tuition, as well as comprehensive notes to take home.” Before setting up the new TAFE facility, Ken and fellow teachers Joanie Nardi and John Kell did a self-funded tour of the coffee capital, Melbourne, to take in all the latest barista techniques. “Melbourne still seems to set the trend for Australian coffee culture, and some of the most memorable coffee venues we visited, like the Auction Rooms Café, Patricia Coffee Brewers and Axel Coffee Roasters are certainly setting the pace. As well as being great fun, it was inspirational to meet like-minded people who are so enthusiastic about this amazing product.” The TAFE Plus Statement in Barista Coffee Preparation costs $160 and will run from 5pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, August 1, October 10 or November 28. Phone 1300 NCAFE (628 233) to enrol.
manning-great lakes focus 25
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coffee lovers
Delectable homemade desserts, cakes and slices.
coffee
lovers f o c u s
f e a t u r e
coffee
lovers f o c u s
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Welcoming, cosy & vibrant local café.
Michel’s Patisserie.
Rolling Bean Café. In the heart of Smiths Lake village, you will find this welcoming, cosy and vibrant local café. Serving premium freshly ground Toby's Estate coffee, a rich blend of caramel, dark berries and spice. Recently refurbished, it's taken on a whole new personality and created a caffeine haven. The highly qualified and friendly baristas will make you want to visit time and time again. Must have for breakfast in the sun-drenched alfresco courtyard is the spicy beans with poached eggs and tortilla toast, or simply taste the home baked lemon drizzle cake with your latte.
Michel’s Patisserie is a premium café and patisserie brand, offering high quality, award-winning coffee prepared by our in store baristas, sweet treats and scrumptious savouries for people on the go, or the perfect place to relax and recharge. Our delicious range of cakes and treats has been a part of celebrating life’s special occasions for over 20 years. Michel’s Patisserie offers expertly blended, full bodied, rich flavoured coffee prepared by our in store baristas. In the competitive world of coffee, Michel’s Patisserie has proven it’s a sip above the rest by being awarded Coffee Shop of the Year by Roy Morgan Research. The independent customer satisfaction survey found that Michel’s was Australia’s highest-rated coffee shop.
Lilly Pilly Café @ Club Taree.
We offer an array of tantalising bakery items and provide a catering service to suit every occasion and budget. No matter what the occasion, Michel’s Patisserie have premium quality cakes, including personalised image and photo cakes, to suit any event. We cater to the largest guest list, or just enough for you to share with your nearest and dearest.
Whether you are looking to get out of the cold weather, somewhere to bring your friends or family, somewhere to relax after work or for a quick chat over coffee, the Lilly Pilly Café has what you need.
On the lunch menu, the mouth-watering locally sourced Angus Beef Burger is the best in town.
Michel’s Patisserie also offers a wide selection of pies, sausage rolls, filo pastries and quiches in a range of sizes. Why not order a catering pack for your next party?
No trip to Pacific Palms/Smiths Lake would be complete without dropping in to the Rolling Bean Café.
Celebrate the good things and make entertaining easy at Michel’s Patisserie.
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The recently opened Lilly Pilly Café at Club Taree features a range of hot and beverages to satisfy any coffee lover.
Our trained staff will help you with your selection when it comes to choosing that perfect blend from our extensive range. The café also feaures a range of delectable home made desserts, cakes and slices and an extensive snack menu for a light meal option. Visit the Lilly Pilly Café, open 10am daily at Club Taree.
focusgiveaway_
Conce Tickets Two tickets to the concert of your choice. Choose between INXS and Boy and Bear.
B__Y AND __EA__ Name:___________________________________________________ Phone:___________________________________________________ Email:____________________________________________________ Please tick which concert you would like to attend
INXS
Send your entry to:
Boy Bear See Boy & Bear on Friday 15 June 2012 at 8pm, Club Forster.
BOY AND BEAR
Tickets Giveaway Suite 2, 42 Wharf Street, Forster NSW 2428
Appearing at Club Forster on Wednesday 20 June @ 8pm. INXS is an18's+ show
Entries close on Tuesday 12 June 2012 at 1PM. The winning entries will be chosen by the first correct entries chosen in a lucky draw held at 1PM on Tuesday 12 June 2012 at the Manning-Great Lakes Focus Offices, Suite 2, 42 Wharf Street FORSTER NSW 2428. Phone (02) 6555 3381. The winners will be published in the July issue of Focus. The prize can not be redeemed for cash. Conditions of entry: All entries must be originals and no photocopies or facsimiles will be accepted. Staff and immediate family members of the Creative House Publications are ineligible to enter. The winners will be notified by telephone. NSW PERMIT NUMBER: LTPS/12/01055
manning-great lakes focus 27
JUNE 2012
WITH TERRI
A R I E S.
L E O.
SAG I T TA R I U S.
MAR 21 - APR 20
JUL 24 - AUG 23
NOV 23 - DEC 21
Celebrations are on their way, so don’t give up your dream. You have needed to recognise your own strength and independence, so you can succeed. Don’t allow the frustration of feeling suspended to spoil your passion or focus. Ruby worn daily energises the aura with passion and persistence.
The world is your oyster. You will soon be finishing off old business ties and making ways for new opportunities, so be prepared. Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak your truth from your heart. Zincite helps creation of new ideas.
TAU RU S.
V I RG O.
C A P R I C O R N.
APR 21 - MAY 21
AUG 24 - SEPT 23
DEC 22 - JAN 20
Love life and relationships should be lifting your mood. Enjoy the little things in life, to realign your energy with joy that can be lasting. Don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve. Rose quartz is the crystal of love; wear it.
GEMINI. MAY 22 - JUN 22
Don’t get caught up in holding onto garbage or things that are not a priority; this takes your confidence out of the picture, leaving you wondering where to go next. Set some fresh goals and enjoy! Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal clear energy.
‘Enjoy the moment’ is this month’s challenge/lesson. You have the chance to soul search and look deeply within. Treat your discoveries with respect, as this will help you to grow at a tremendous pace. Self-appraisal should be an honouring process. Kunzite and Hiddenite give us inner balance and harmony. Try wearing some.
Make a wish, but be aware of WHY you want what you are asking for. The universe is calling for your attention to your personal needs. Release fears of being proficiently able to support yourself. Larimar enables us to nurture ourselves.
LIBRA.
AQ UA R I U S.
SEPT 24 - OCT 23
JAN 21 - FEB 19
Your attention is being called to your appreciation this month. You have been too caught up in life’s challenges to recognise the things in life that make your heart sing. Try keeping a gratitude diary for several weeks, where you write down three things daily you are thankful for, as this will establish new patterns of gratitude. Turquoise is great for expression.
You are about to tumble into a new experience, filled with passion and natural talent. Listen to your intuition, as you will be divinely guided along the way. You are being given an opportunity to strengthen your self-worth and your self-confidence, which will enable you to receive bigger and better things out of life. Carnelian is a very powerful motivating crystal.
CANCER.
S C O R P I O.
P I S C E S.
JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU
OCT 24 - NOV 22
FEB 20 - MAR 20
Listen to your inner voice. Your restlessness is quieting, and change is imminent. Pay attention to cycle’s endings and know when to move ahead. Opportunity to express your creative self is approaching, so remain focused until the task is complete. Citrine connects our imagination to our intellect, resulting in new ideas.
28 manning-great lakes focus.
You have answers to other people’s dilemmas. This is because you have a cosmic understanding of life. You are a natural teacher, and other people are drawn to you because they know you have their answers. Don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive. Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams, for understanding life from different perspectives.
Life has felt challenging to say the least recently, but try to re-connect with your laughter to ease your fears of the unknown. You have a brilliant sense of humour, and this aspect of your nature will keep you excited about the future. Ruby shatters fears and rejuvenates a love of life.
You need to make a choice. There are beautiful gifts coming into your reality, but you need to know you deserve these things. Sit quietly somewhere in nature and state (even to yourself) what your heart desires, then give yourself permission to receive it. Aventurine is great to carry for changes.
focus_interview.
TA L E O F
“Once upon a time there were four little Rabbits, and their names were – Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail and Peter …”
B
eatrix Potter’s much loved classic celebrates its 110th anniversary with the musical Happy Birthday Peter Rabbit, Celebrating 110 Years. First published in 1902, The Tale of Peter Rabbit has enchanted countless children with tales of the world’s most adorable and mischievous bunny and Mr McGregor’s veggie patch … Award-winning producer Garry Ginivan has adapted many books for the stage, including Noddy Goes to Toyland by Enid Blyton, in which Garry personally persuaded the Blyton family for permission to do a musical adaptation of Noddy. Garry talks to us about the magic that is children’s theatre … You’re one of Australia’s leading theatre producers and have adapted quite a few books for the stage. I wanted to hear specifically about the process of adapting such a precious gem as Peter Rabbit and the importance of getting the adaptation right … It originally took me 18 months to get the rights approved, before we could even start working on a script. Peter Rabbit is the jewel in the crown of Frederick Warne, and they’re quite particular about everything. Obviously in the interim I had been formulating ideas on how and what we might present for the stage. I decided on a mix of the Tales of Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny and Mr Tod, as this would give us the a through line and the inclusion of some drama between Mr McGregor and Tommy Brock and the stolen baby bunnies in the Tale of Mr Tod. It was then decided which large replicas of the books the action could take place in. This production is the first production that has ever starred Peter Rabbit in his own production. There was the ballet, which was inclusive of many of Beatrix Potter characters, but there has never been a Peter Rabbit show. This is why I think it took so long for approval and the production finally reaching the stage. How fabulous for Peter Rabbit to have his ‘moment’, particularly on the 110th anniversary … why hasn’t Peter Rabbit ever appeared in his own show before? I have produced in the past The Magic Faraway Tree and The Magic Wishing Chair, and they are the only productions that have ever been on stage as well. Our production of Peter Rabbit was first produced for the 100th anniversary, and since that time we have produced
it many times. The current production has been adapted into a ‘Birthday Celebration’ for this special year. Now we have the original stage production based on the stories of Peter Rabbit – Australian created and produced – something of which I am very proud. Which characters can we expect to meet in the musical? The characters that are in the show are Beatrix Potter, who plays a narrator, Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Mr McGregor, Old Mr Bunny, Tommy Brock and Mr Tod. I think it’s A lot of the children important whenn ildre we introduce ch seeing this production at we th , tre to the thea will likely have never . All ity gr te in ith w it do , ns tio uc seen a piece of musical od pr children’s theatre around of our it, bb Ra r te theatre before. How including Pe pecially of a certain standard. To are designed esores and much responsibility be honest, my very first sc al in ig with or ns.” is there to ensure the show was Noddy Goes script adaptatio children’s introduction to to Toyland in a church hall, theatre is a magical experiand I had the cast from A Choence for them? rus Line doing this at night time, There’s a lot of responsibility, plus performing Noddy during the day because music theatre in Australia is like the … it cost $2 for a ticket and we actually made icon of theatre, and that’s what the masses money, so I thought we had better keep going are drawn to. People who have never been to with this. the theatre before go for the first time to see You somehow persuaded the Blyton family Phantom of the Opera, CATS or Love Never Dies to do the musical adaptation of Noddy. … music theatre in Australia is very important in I went to the UK and met Enid Blyton’s two how theatre can survive. daughters – Imogen Smallwood and Gillian I think it’s important when we introduce chilBaverstock. When I went to meet them in Londren to the theatre that we do it with integrity. don, it was originally to do with The Faraway All of our productions, including Peter Rabbit, Tree (Noddy had been the forerunner to this, are designed especially with original scores and and so we already had an association). They had script adaptations. Nothing is thrown together. been pleased with the Noddy outcome, and so We could actually be doing musicals for adults, were very keen to pursue The Faraway Tree. and that’s the approach that we use. Noddy was first presented in 1978 as a shopHas the rehearsal period been lengthy? ping centre production. It gradually expanded We have had about three weeks of rehearsals and was moved into a small theatre, and from for this. We have highly experienced actors in there it just kept growing. this production, including one actor who just It became obvious to me there was a need came out of performing in Love Never Dies and for this type of music theatre, based on wellone actor who just came out of the Victorian known characters that children could associate College of the Arts … it’s always good to be and identify with. able to give people coming into the industry Tell us about the lyrics for this production. an opportunity to work with professionals, Normally I do the book and the lyrics for all especially in creating music theatre for children the shows I’ve done. It’s just an extension of and families. the dialogue and because I’ve spent 30 years in Why children’s theatre … music theatre, it’s my passion. I was working in London in the early ‘70s, To be honest, it’s just the way I’ve always and the quality of children’s theatre was terrible done it, and it’s worked well. I’ve always got a in the UK – it was pantomime. When I came tune I can hum to the composer and they never back to do A Chorus Line, there wasn’t much use it – but there you go!
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So Mark Jones, who did the original score on this production, didn’t use the tune as you hummed out loud? Mark Jones does his own tunes; he’s the best in Australia. Mark is originally from Ballarat, and I’ve known him for 20 years. One of his first jobs was to compose the music for Noddy Goes to Toyland for me. He’s a very fine performer as well. Since then, he’s done all of my new works as well, with the exception of Wombat Stew, which was adapted by Gary Young and composed by Paul Keelan in 2010. Mark is in very high-demand in Melbourne and is about to rehearse for the Bell Shakespeare company. What are some the highlights we can look forward to seeing in this production? A very tall Mr McGregor – much taller than what the children might think he’s going to be! He’s all in perspective, as you are looking up at him like a little rabbit and has a smaller hat and very big boots. We’ve also got the battle of Tommy Brock and Mr Tod, which is from the book when Mr Todd finds Tommy Brock in his bed. There are also the Flopsy bunnies, the product of when Benjamin Bunny marries Flopsy – seven little bunnies all in a big pusher. It’s delightful. Thank you Garry. Interview by Karen Farrell.
the plug! See the show at Manning Entertainment Centre on 18 June at 6.30pm. www.gtcc.nsw.gov.au/mec 6552 5699
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Curves iss giving away ay FREE 30 day ay memberships. ips.
Get healthy for free. Curves Taree will ‘shout’ a free 30-day membership to any women who visit the club from June 18 - 22, 2012, during regular operating hours.
non-Curves members).
This incredible free membership opportunity will give local women a chance to experience all that the Curves program has to offer. Curves clubs “Get a s provide support, camaraderie, es tn fi ee fr k a complete diet and fitness assessment, as questions, ande solution and a sense of common take advantag ay purpose that grows from an -d of the free 30 ” p. hi rs informed concern for women’s be mem health.
The event is being held as part of National Curves Open House week, where they aim to celebrate Curves’ mission of strengthening women, honour its members and others who have already taken responsibility for their health, and provide opportunities for those who haven’t yet but would like to do so.
During this week, local women are invited to visit the club to pick up free health information, get a free fitness assessment, ask questions, and take advantage of the free 30-day membership offer (only available for
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Also available at Curves Taree is the Curves Complete Weight Loss Program, 90 days of diet, exercise and 1-on-1 coaching. It is the new weight-loss plan that has it all, so you can lose it all. Diet + exercise + motivation. Finally, the 3 keys to weightloss in 1 plan, only at 1 place – Curves. Please visit www.curves.com.au
focusinterview.
Lorraine Harrison. R E D N O S E DAY On Friday 29 June we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Red Nose Day – the annual fundraiser for SIDS and Kids (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)... Lorraine Harrison, Education Officer at SIDS and Kids NSW, tells us about this important fundraising day ...
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ell us about SIDS and also, research into perinatal and infant death. what is 'Kids'? You have a current health program called SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death ‘Sleep Safe, My Baby’ ... what is this Syndrome, is actually now about? referred to as SUDI – Sudden ‘Sleep Safe, My Baby’ is an evidence-based Unexpected Death in Infancy. SUDI may be the health promotion campaign developed for result of a serious illness or a congenital probhealth professionals, childcare workers, new lem that a baby may have been born with. The and expectant parents, parents and anyonly way to find out for certain why a baby one who cares for babies and infants. The has died suddenly and unexpectedly, without campaign has been developed in conjunction an obvious prevailing reason, is to with researchers from all around the perform an autopsy, review the world. Since its inception in the clinical history and thoroughly early 1990s, the campaign investigate the circumstanchas reduced the incidence More than 60 es of death, including the of SIDS by 85% saving studies have l na death scene. A cause of over 7,000 babies’ lives. er at m shown that y nc na eg pr in death may be found, but Vigilance is still required g in smok when no cause is found, in delivering our Safe is associated with k of an increased ris the death is then classiSleeping message to the death.” fied as SIDS. broad community, as sadly ‘Kids’ refers to the serthe cause of sudden infant vices we have introduced over death syndrome remains the past 10 years, in supporting unknown with more research into families who have experienced the the cause still needed. death of their baby or child during pregnancy, The basic message is: birth, infancy and childhood. SIDS and Kids 1. Sleep baby on the back from birth, not on provides a range of unique and specialised the tummy or side services, including face to face counselling and 2. Sleep baby with head and face uncovered home visiting, support groups, telephone and 3. Keep baby smoke free before birth and online forums. Services can be provided for after parents, siblings, grandparents, friends and 4. Provide a safe sleeping environment family and are provided free of charge. 5. Sleep baby in their own safe sleeping Why the Red Nose? place in the same room as an adult care-giver Red Nose Day became the first novelty fund- for the first six to twelve months raising event in Australia where the community 6. Breastfeed baby if you can was encouraged to “… do something silly To get people thinking, what are some for a serious cause”! In the first campaign in fundraising ideas they can do on Red Nose 1987, one million red noses were sold, raising Day? funds and substantially increasing awareness We encourage everyone to get involved in of the cause of sudden unexpected infant raising awareness of infant loss, the support death. families need when they experience this, and Here we are 25 years later, with a highly to help raise funds for SIDS and Kids to consuccessful and well recognised ‘signature day’ tinue to offer our vital services. in the busy Australian fundraising calendar, Anyone can hold a fundraising function or which contributes funds to support grieving event; for example, a morning tea, a lunchtime families, educate communities and enable BBQ, a guessing game, a meat raffle, a craft
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workshop – the main idea is to ‘Do It In Red’ and have fun while supporting families and helping save babies’ lives. You can also order boxes of Red Nose Day merchandise and sell – go to rednoseday.com for these. Why is the cause of SIDS still unknown? SIDS is the term used when the cause of death is unknown. There has been an estimated 85% reduction in the incidence of SIDS over the last 20 years, as we have learned more about the factors that increase the risks, including tummy sleeping, smoking, covering baby’s head and face. While much has been learned about sudden unexpected infant death, research continues so that we might reduce the chances of these tragedies occurring. Infants sleeping prone (lying on the stomach) as opposed to supine (lying on the back) are at greater risk of imminent sudden death – why? Evidence suggests that infants who are slept prone are at greater risk of lowering their oxygen levels while sleeping and that this contributes to sudden infant death. What sort of risk does tobacco smoke present to infants? Babies who are exposed to tobacco smoke arouse less during sleep. A study of babies aged 8 - 12 weeks found that babies who were exposed to tobacco smoke before birth do not arouse as readily as babies of women who did not smoke during pregnancy. It is very important that babies can arouse readily from sleep, so they can respond by swallowing or gasping if a life-threatening event occurs (for example, if the time between breaths is really long, or there is fluid in the throat). Babies who have been exposed to tobacco smoke before birth have trouble arousing during sleep, and this is believed to contribute to sudden infant death. More than 60 studies have shown that maternal smoking in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of death. Smoking is one of
the most important modifiable risk factors in reducing the risks of sudden infant death, with international agreement that the evidence now demonstrates a causal association. Does genetics play a role in SIDS? It is not yet known the complete role that genetics may or may not play in sudden infant death. How are funds raised from Red Nose Day utilised? SIDS and Kids organisations rely on the generosity of the general community on Red Nose Day and at other events and fundraising initiatives throughout the year to enable us to continue providing our bereavement support services, to educate the community about how to care for bereaved parents and the Sleep Safe, My Baby campaign and to support research into perinatal and infant death. All SIDS and kids Services are provided free of charge. What do people who wish to volunteer or help need to do? There are lots of ways to help: hold your own event; come to one of ours; or get involved in the fun of Red Nose Day – come and help sell with us! Lots of different places hold different events; last year, for example, a nursing home had a ‘Red Tie and Hat High Tea’ … go to sidsandkidsnsw.org and click on ‘I Would Like to Volunteer’, or call us on (02) 9818 8400. Thank you Lorraine. Interview by Karen Farrell.
the plug! Buy Red Nose Day merchandise, hold an event or make a donation throughout June with Red Nose Day on Friday 29 June. M A K E A D O N AT I O N . www.sidsandkidsnsw.org (02) 9818 8400 fundraising@sidsandkidsnsw.org
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watch. Taree Film Society has a busy month. Le Havre (PG) screens at 7pm Sunday 3 June at St Joseph’s School Hall, Farquhar St, Wingham. Offbeat Finnish director Aki Kaurismaki (Drifting Clouds, Leningrad Cowboys Go America) paints a warmhearted portrait of the French harbour city, where fate throws young African refugee Idrissa (Blondin Miguel) into the path of Marcel Marx (André Wilms), a well-spoken bohemian who works as a shoeshiner. With innate optimism and the unwavering support of his community, Marcel stands up to officials doggedly pursuing the boy for deportation. A political fairy tale that exists somewhere between the reality of contemporary France and the classic cinema of Jean-Pierre Melville and Marcel Carné, Le Havre is a charming, deadpan delight. Then the action shifts to colder lands for King Of Devil’s Island (M) on Monday evening 18 June at Fay’s Twin Cinema. Based on remarkable true events in Norway in 1915, King Of Devil’s
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eat. Over 1,000 d downloads. he creative team at FOCUS is proud to announce that our iPhone app, called eat. now has over 1,000 downloads. “We’re really happy with how many locals and visitors have downloaded the app and are using it to explore local restaurants and cafés,” said Michael Marchment, FOCUS designer. “Based on growing feedback, we have now also launched the Android version. So whether you have an iPhone or an Android phone, you can now see a great selection of local restaurants with stunning photography. Or if you still can't decide where to eat, just hit the random button – and let the app decide for you." Readers can download the eat. app for free just by visiting the website at www.focusmag.com.au/eat and following the links.
T Island tells an extraordinary story of friendship, loyalty and rebellion, set on a remote ice-bound island reform school for abandoned children. When enigmatic 17-year-old Erling (magnetic newcomer Benjamin Helstad) arrives at Bastøy, his defiant attitude makes an immediate impression on the other boys and rattles the authority of the stern governor (Stellan Skarsgård). Erling quickly determines the only means of survival is escape, but this unwittingly transforms him from the role of fugitive into the leader of a rebellion, provoking an astonishing series of events that remain unparalleled in Norwegian
history. With sweeping widescreen cinematography, immaculate period detail and wholly impressive performances, King Of Devil’s Island depicts a classic, timeless story of both physical and moral courage.
the plug! For further information, tickets or subscriptions, please phone 6552 3476 or email tareefilmsociety@yahoo.com.au or find the Society at the food table in the foyer.
focuseditorial. Teaching swimmers from 6 months to 100 years.
Learn to Swim. The Y is dedicated to bringing families together, providing a 'third place' away from the pressures of work and home where they can connect and be active together. Through initiatives such as Family Memberships, the whole family can spend quality time together without financial burden.
Healthy and Happy “Can we stay for lunch?” We hear this a lot at Blossoms, as parents drop their children off for the day and are met by our morning cooking smells. Our kitchen at Blossoms is a very important place. Not only does it usually have some eager helpers at the bench, but it is also is a place where many parents can be seen talking about their child’s eating or looking longingly at the monthly menu. Our aim at Blossoms is to make sure that every day children receive the nutrition required in a way that children love. A trip to the garden with the cook to pick fresh herbs and vegetables that are then put lovingly into our meals is often part of our morning program. Sitting with friends, learning how to use utensils, pouring drinks and helping clear the tables are all skills that we teach. At Blossoms, we know that education happens when children are healthy, happy and full of energy. It is just another way that we can help our families with their busy lives and make that important home time a little bit easier. If this sounds good, come and have a look. Limited vacancies available – bookings available for 2013.
The Y has a direct impact on the health of individuals, families and communities through diverse programs spanning aquatics, fitness and sport, gymnastics and camping. There are programs designed for the young and old, as well as people living with disabilities and Indigenous communities. We understand the importance of value for money and that is why we have developed the Family Membership, offering you the choice of either FREE learn to swim or gymnastics classes for each child within the family unit. Each year, more than 170,000 children and adults take part in aquatic education programs at the Y in NSW, making the YMCA the largest aquatic education provider in the state. Our unique aquatic education programs are about much more than just learning to swim; they combine water safety, skill and personal development, providing opportunities for participants to learn a skill for life and build a healthy body, mind and spirit. The program places an emphasis on simulating open-water environments, which is essential given our location here at the Great Lakes. The program is delivered by Austswim qualified instructors for those aged six months to 100 years! The YMCA is also a recognised leader in the delivery of gymnastics programs for all ages and abilities. Gymnastics is the ideal way for children to develop strength, coordination and flexibility, fine and gross motor skills, confidence and self esteem, proving to be an all round winner in general health and fitness and most importantly, opportunities for kids to develop new friendships.
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,Žǁ ĐĂŶ &ŝŶĂŶĐŝĂů Retirement Education
Recent years have seen continuing worldwide ¿nancial uncertainty, together with a number of high KƵƌ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚĂŬĞƐ ĂƐ Ă ƐƚĂƌƟŶŐ ƉŽŝŶƚ ʹ ǁŚĞƌĞ ĐĂŶ ǁĞ ĂĚĚ pro¿le ¿nancial scandals.
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ǀĂůƵĞ ƚŽ ŚĞůƉ LJŽƵ ĞŶũŽLJ ƚŚĞ ůŝĨĞƐƚLJůĞ LJŽƵ ǁĂŶƚ͍ The government’s Future of Financial Advice dŽŽ ŽŌĞŶ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ŝƐ ĐĞŶƚƌĞĚ ŽŶ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚƐ Žƌ ƉƌŽĚƵĐƚƐ͘ reforms originally due to be implemented this ƚ &ŝŐƚƌĞĞ ŽƵƌ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ĐŽŶĐĞŶƚƌĂƚĞƐ ŽŶ July have in many cases been watered down or ƉƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĨŽƌŵ ŽĨ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŐŝǀĞ postponed. LJŽƵ ƉĞĂĐĞ ŽĨ ŵŝŶĚ ƚŚĂƚ LJŽƵƌ ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂů ŶĞĞĚƐ ǁŝůů ďĞ ŵĞƚ͘ Against this background many retirees are &Žƌ ĞdžĂŵƉůĞ͕ ĨŽƌ LJŽƵ ŝƚ ŵŝŐŚƚ ŵĞĂŶ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ LJŽƵƌ understandably nervous and confused and ĨĂŵŝůLJ ĂƌĞ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƚĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ĞǀĞŶƚ ŽĨ ĚŝƐĂƐƚĞƌ͕ ƚŚĂƚ LJŽƵ wondering what to do next. ŚĂǀĞ ƚŚĞ ƌŝŐŚƚ ĂŵŽƵŶƚ ŽĨ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ ŝŶ ƌĞƟƌĞŵĞŶƚ Žƌ To assist people approaching or already in ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ LJŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ĞŶŽƵŐŚ ƚŽ ƐĞĞ LJŽƵ ŽƵƚ͕ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞŶ retirement understand their options better, Figtree ƚŚĂƚ ǁŚĂƚ͛Ɛ ůĞŌ ǁŝůů ĞŶĚ ƵƉ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƌŝŐŚƚ ŚĂŶĚƐ͘ Financial Planning are running their popular KŌĞŶ ǁĞ ĐĂŶ ŵĂŬĞ Ă ƚĂŶŐŝďůĞ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ ĚŽůůĂƌ ƚĞƌŵƐ Sessions again. LJŽƵƌ ƐĂǀŝŶŐƐ ďLJ Retirement ƐƵŐŐĞƐƟŶŐ Information ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ǁŝůů ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞ Žƌ ŝŶĐŽŵĞ͕ ƉƌŽĚƵĐĞ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ ĞŶƚƌĞůŝŶŬ ďĞŶĞĮƚƐ Žƌ ƌĞĚƵĐĞ The aim of the sessions is to explain all of the LJŽƵƌ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĐŽƐƚƐ͘ fundamentals of retirement planning as simply ƋƵĂůůLJ ŝŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ ŝƐ ƚŚĞ Ăƚ ŶŝŐŚƚ ĨĂĐƚŽƌ͟ as possible, and ƚŚŽƵŐŚ to put these in ͞ƐůĞĞƉ the context of the ʹ ƚŚĞ ƉĞĂĐĞ ŽĨ ŵŝŶĚ ƚŚĂƚ ĐŽŵĞƐ ĨƌŽŵ ŬŶŽǁŝŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ LJŽƵ current economic situation. ĂƌĞ ǁŽƌŬŝŶŐ ǁŝƚŚ ƚƌƵƐƚĞĚ ĂĚǀŝƐĞƌƐ ǁŚŽ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚ LJŽƵƌ Changes in the tax and superannuation rules will be ƐŝƚƵĂƟŽŶ͘ explained along with some tips and traps, as well as
^ŽŵĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƚŚŝŶŐƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĐůŝĞŶƚƐ ƚĞůů ƵƐ ƚŚĞLJ ways to produce reliable regular retirement income safely. ǀĂůƵĞ ŽƵƌ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĨŽƌ ĂƌĞ͗ ͻ In WƌŽǀŝĚŝŶŐ ƚŽ Information LJŽƵƌ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƋƵĞƐƟŽŶƐ addition,ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ Financial Service Of¿cerʹ ŝĨ ǁĞ ĚŽŶ͛ƚ ŬŶŽǁ ƚŚĞ ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ Žī ƚŚĞ ƚŽƉ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ ŚĞĂĚƐ ǁĞ ǁŝůů Trevor Turner will provide an update on Centrelink. ŬŶŽǁ ŚŽǁ ƚŽ ĮŶĚ ŽƵƚ͘ Did you know for example that a married couple can ͻ now ,ĞůƉŝŶŐ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ĐŽŶĐĞƉƚƐ ďLJ ĞdžƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ haveLJŽƵ overŐƌĂƐƉ $1 million invested and possibly still ĐŽŵƉůĞdž ƌƵůĞƐ ƐŝŵƉůLJ͘ be eligible for some Age Pension? ͻ džƉůĂŝŶŝŶŐ LJŽƵƌ ŽƉƟŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ŚĞůƉŝŶŐ LJŽƵ ŵĂŬĞ ƐŽƵŶĚ Sessions will be presented in Taree and Hallidays ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶƐ ƌĂƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ĞŵŽƟŽŶĂů ƌĞĂĐƟŽŶƐ͘ Point and all are welcome.
manning-great lakes focus 33
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MARK
focus feature meninbusiness
e lis.
In 2003, Australian pro water-ski coach Mark Ellis invented the H Headzone d h helmet l –a communication device which includes a microphone and transmitter and which allows real-time, improved communication to occur direct to the student from the coach, using a handheld radio transmitter.
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he completely waterproof and impact resistant radio, receiver and headphones system is currently being used across different water sports and has had patents approved for it throughout Australia, Europe and the U.S. Chief Executive Officer of Headzone, Mark Ellis tells us about his invention and the methodology behind his business. Headzone has been in operation for approximately eight years – tell us how the idea came about? The idea or concept came about when I had a ski school at Nowra. I found that I could coach people only to the point where their body would let go before the performance increase. I had a computer system that hooked up to the pylon of a boat and to a rope. I also had a laptop in the boat and was able to interpret information from the skier while they were doing slalom, trick and jump skiing. The information from that became relative as to how to instruct a skier through a course, and I subsequently came up with the idea for the Headzone helmet. This new system is already getting a name as being the best water ski coaching system there is in the world. It’s getting to the point where the impact it is having on the sport is revolutionary. The communication device includes a microphone and transmitter – how does it work? The coach has the handset, which is the transmitter, and the athlete has a receiver and rechargeable battery built into the helmet. The volume and radio channel is set through a magnet, so there are no buttons involved. Water is prevented from getting into the system by using magnetic switching, and everything is totally sealed. The coach sets the helmet for each individual student, who basically then gets into the water and does as they’re told. The rate of athlete improvement when using this system really is phenomenal. Is the communication two-way or one-way only – from the coach to the athlete only? It is purely one-way, for the purpose of coaching. The reason for that is because if you had a phone and you’re talking to somebody on the phone, you’re actually thinking about what to say back to that person. Similarly, if you have two-way communication while coaching, then they’re thinking about what to answer. It’s like Nike says: “Just Do It”.
It’s immediate real-time coaching? It’s instant coaching and no different to if you were actually talking to the athlete in person. I don’t want to make an enemy of you, but does this style of coaching take away from the intuitiveness of the athlete? Not at all. As an athlete is going through the process of learning, you actually get to feel what it’s like to do things in the right position. Without that correct body position, you’re only learning bad habits. OK, I’ll ask the question another way … with The coach sets competition, for instance, the helmet for t dividual studen in ch shouldn’t it be the case ea en gets who basically th d does that the coach gets an into the water the athlete to a certain e rate as they’re told. Thement ov pr point and then sends of athlete im system types of water skiing recthem on their way to when using this enal.” om en ph is ognise that the benefits ly al re perform to the best of Headzone brings to people their ability independently? being trained with the system In some sports that’s the case, should continue through into but with watersports a lot of nerves tournaments. come into things, which can be a detriment to Other sports that use Headzone are surfing, a person’s performance level in a tournament. kiteboarding and white water rafting, to name But that’s every athlete’s challenge – to not a few. choke … Some coaches have taken a little while to The difference is that it puts everyone on take up the product … this would seem a more even playing field to start with … we idiotic, considering the product provides an could talk about this all day long – drugs in extra advantage from training through to sport versus non-drugs … I’ve always thought performance. Ian Thorpe had a big advantage, because his There’s been discussions at different tournafeet are like flippers. It can become a case of: ment sites around Australia where people do you want to start measuring the size of a haven’t known about it and have started legally swimmer’s foot, arm length or their stroke? No. using the system, and there were comments Everyone has different advantages in different that it was ‘cheating’. To me, this is good. sports, for whatever reason. If people think that somebody is cheating usWhat you’re saying is that it can be an ing the system, then it has to be an advantage. even playing field if everyone has the It comes down to the fact that everyone’s after ability to be coached at the time of the the best performance they can get by utilising performance. the best equipment, coaches and places to train That’s exactly right. to improve their level as an athlete. I’ve always Who accredits the product? said there is a recipe to building a champion. There are no standards for water sport What makes a good businessman? helmets. The patents have been approved The way that I’ve approached Headzone is throughout Europe, Australia and the USA. in the same manner as I would a student or an When you get patents approved, a lot of athlete. I’ve treated the company as being the people think you get a global patent, but that’s ‘athlete’. Headzone is the ‘athlete’, and I need unfortunately not the case. You have to get each patent approved for each different region. to be the coach for the ‘athlete’ … in that we Which sports have taken up the product? have a ‘dietician’, which is the lawyer and we The governing body for water skiing decided also have ‘sports psychologists’, which are the last year that radio communication could be accountants. We have ‘sponsors’, which are used in a tournament. Water skiing has three the investors. So to coach Headzone to become events – tricks, slalom and jump. There is also the champion that it needs to be and get to wakeboarding and barefooting. Essentially, all the World Titles or win a gold medal, we need
“
five things: determination, patience, money, knowledge and ability. Have you got a five-year plan? The biggest issue at this point is the marketing. We’re really trying to focus on one sport at a time, rather than having a shotgun effect. Originally, the system was designed around water skiing, although we still get sales coming in from different sports, but the real focus is on water skiing. Our marketing is from the pinnacle, or top athletes down. People often start to build it from the bottom up, but we’ve identified the best ambassadors for Headzone from all levels of the sport. We’ve got the world’s best either coaching or utilising the product. We have Freddy Krueger (his real name – his parents had a fun time naming him), Taylor Garica – the American up-and-coming Junior, plus Josh Briant who’s the current Under-17 World Record Holder and World Champion. We also have Jacinta Carrol, who broke the Women’s Under 21 World Jump Record. So we have four skiers using the system at the Masters who are at the pinnacle of their careers using Headzone. Any business advice for someone wanting to create or invent something? A person needs to understand what it takes to make it. The determination, patience, money, knowledge and ability … ability doesn’t have to come from the actual person; it can be found through other people you work with. I didn’t know electronics, but I was fortunate enough to find a technical expert who believed in the idea and worked with me to realise it. It’s also great to involve local investors. The majority of our investors have come from this town. Thanks Mark. Interview by Karen Farrell. manning-great lakes focus 35
BUSINESS
Doug Freebody.
Paul Mackie.
KBI – Kitchens, Bathrooms and Interiors nteriors.
Mackies Electrical OWNER / MANAGER
OWNER
What is unique about your business? Our absolute commitment to customer satisfaction has seen our business successfully evolve in key areas, including:
an interactive website, where clients can check delivery and trade movements, plus progress payments. Look out for the new website at www.kbidesign.com.au
Paul Mackie – General Manager – refrigeration/
an area where Mark and his team are capable of
air conditioning consulting and sales. With our
looking after your needs.
entry in the hot water market with the Solahart
Scott Hadenham – air conditioning, solar PV
dealership for the Manning, Great Lakes, Bulahdelah
and hot water sales. Living in Forster, Scott joined
Personalised Service: KBI adopts a hands-on approach. I oversee every project, plus personally work with clients to achieve their desired results.
How have you created your own business opportunities? We established ourselves as kitchen and bathroom experts and then offered a full range of expertise on all renovation needs.
and Gloucester regions, Mackies can now provide a
Mackies in 1998. Getting the right solutions for
complete house energy solution with Solar PV and
residential and commercial design, with experience
Solar hot water, along with energy efficient Daikin air
gained from years in installation, Scott can assist with
conditioning.
all your needs to keep you comfortable with energy
What sorts of clientele use your business? We have facilities to service the high-end market and can also accommodate the budget conscious clientele.
Mark Dreyer – solar technicial sales and stand
efficient quality products.
alone installation. Joined Mackies in 2001,
Tony Watt – solar grid connect, hot water sales
accredited level 2 for Switchboard Upgrades, Offpeak
and energy audits. With an electrical background,
and Smart Meter Upgrades, along with solar grid
Tony joined Mackies to assist with the growing solar
What makes your business successful? Receiving referrals from existing clients. We deliver exceptional customer service, using the highest quality materials. KBI complies with safety and statutory regulations, and we never take short cuts.
and stand alone accreditation. We are experiencing
PV and hot water markets. Tony has assisted many
an increase in standalone systems, with clients
clients with advising on the most energy efficient
wanting to be independent to their energy provider
solutions to minimise their electrical costs, whether
by producing power from the sun and storing it
it be an energy efficient pool pump or putting their
in batteries. Service and maintenance of existing
existing hot water system on to a time clock and
systems with failures in cheaper brand inverters is
installing solar power.
Computerised Job Tracking: we use a computerised job tracking system, which ensures a seamless flow of communication from the work site to the client at each stage of the project. Experienced specialists: our experienced team has worked together for many years. Designer Jim Pangas is renowned for his award-wining designs and innovative creations. Expert tradespeople, including Levi Elms, then bring the plans and client brief to fruition. Business vision for 2012? KBI is launching
36 manning-great lakes focus.
focus fo oc cu us ffeature ea e a tu t u re meninbusiness
BUSINESS Warren W a Fisher Director
PERSONAL TAX + PLANNING G Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) are the fastest growing sector of the Australian superannuation industry.
Graham Brown Director
I
n the 5 years to 30 June 2011, SMSF assets under management grew at twice the rate of traditional super investments and are an increasingly popular option for investors seeking greater control and flexibility for their superannuation. You need to consider the wide ranging legislative reporting requirements and compliance obligations when deciding if a Self-Managed Super Fund is right for you. A SMSF offers a greater degree of flexibility when it comes to sophisticated investment & retirement strategies and can support a wide range of investment options, such as: • Direct Shares – Australian and international; • Direct Property – including commercial business real property; Managed Funds; fixed Interest; alternative assets – artwork and collectibles; SMSFs can also borrow funds within a strict set of requirements. Trustees of a SMSF may need to appoint an Accountant, Approved Auditor, Tax Agent and Financial Planner to ensure their SMSF maintains its legal status and enjoys the tax benefits afforded to a complying SMSF. Will your SMSF be up to date or will it be left behind? Are you getting current up to date timely advice on your SMSF? Is your SMSF meeting all the current rules? Will your SMSF adviser be up to date with the proposed rule changes under FOFA? WA R R E N F I S C H E R P E R S O N A L TA X A N D P L A N N I N G C F P
Warren is a principal of Personal Tax and Planning and has been providing financial planning advice to clients in our local region
for over 19 years and holds the following qualifications. Associate Diploma of Business (Accounting) TAFE – 1991. Diploma of Financial Planning – Deakin University – 2003. Certified Financial Planner™ – Financial Planning Association Australia – 2003. As a Certified Financial Planner™, Warren continues to meet rigorous Professional Standards, upholds the Financial Planning Association of Australia’s Code of Ethics and meets high standards of competency through regular Professional Development, which means you receive up to date advice. Warren is qualified and experienced in providing advice on SMSFs and has extensive experience with assisting clients on a broad range of financial planning strategies. From his experience, Warren has an ability to understand the client's needs from their perspective, and is able to develop solutions to suit their individual needs. Personal Tax and Planning’s 'Fee for Service' Total Financial Care packages means there are no hidden fees or commissions – an annual fixed fee for your level of service and true value for your advice and ongoing service. Warren is an Authorised Representative and member of Count Financial Limited. GRAHAM BROWN FCA
Graham graduated from the University of New England with a Bachelor of Financial Administration degree in 1980. He then worked with Ernst & Young, Chartered Accountants in Sydney before moving to Taree in 1983. Graham is heavily involved with advising many local businesses in the
Manning Valley including many community organisations to which he donates his time and expertise. Graham is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia which means he has attained a professional qualification at the pinnacle of his profession. Since setting up his own practice in 1996 in Taree, the firm has now grown to be the largest employer of professionally qualified accountants in the area and prides itself on assisting clients in all aspects of running a small business. Since qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, Graham has assisted hundreds of clients through the complexities of running and managing a self managed superannuation fund. GPB Partners currently assist over 150 self managed superannuation funds with their administration and tax planning issues. He has assisted clients through all phases of their business and investment lives, and in particular has advised clients on: 1. Setting up a self managed superannuation fund 2. Continued management of the funds 3. Calculating contributions to their best investment and taxation advantage 4. Assisting with investment strategies within the fund 5. Planning for retirement with self managed superannuation 6. Transferring assets (including business properties) from members to their fund to meet superannuation guarantee and tax deduction requirements when cash flow is tight 7. Ensuring that clients and their super funds
can be totally tax free in retirement 8. Jointly purchasing assets with individuals, entities and their super fund 9. Managing particular assets such as works of art and collectibles within superannuation 10. Managing asset purchases within super funds that involve borrowing within the fund 11. Intergenerational transfer of super balances to family members 12. Accessing the benefits of self managed superannuation, while simplifying the complexities of the legal requirements Over his career so far, Graham has seen just about everything that can and can’t be done within a self managed superannuation fund. Not only has he advised on the right way to do things, but he has assisted clients unwind situations that no longer comply with the changing superannuation laws. The philosophy he has brought to GPB Partners is to make sure that: Clients can manage their own affairs as they see fit within the law, while making the administration of superannuation easy to deal with. This enables clients to get on with managing their investments and businesses to their best advantage. Through the combined expertise of GPB Partners and Personal Tax & Planning, a specialised total management and investment package can be tailor made for you with a fixed fee, so you know the full cost in advance. For a complete specialist SMSF solution which is local, experienced, service focused and licensed to provide SMSF advice, why not call for an obligation free health check of your superannuation situation.
manning-great lakes focus 37
focusinterview.
MOUNTAIN BIKE SERIES
LOCAL MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB ‘THE TIP RIDERS’ WILL HOST THIS YEAR’S TAREE ROUND OF THE ‘TAKING ON THE HOG’ GNATPACK MOUNTAIN BIKE SERIES ON SUNDAY 17 JUNE. CHRISSY JONES CAUGHT UP WITH PUBLICITY OFFICER MEG MULLER TO FIND OUT MORE ...
F
irstly, what is GnaTPACK?
regularly compete.
many requests, it will incorporate Moab! The
nice places to stay, and why not bring the family
When and where will the Taree leg of the
purple loop is a good, technically based loop that
with you?
Bike Clubs on the NSW Mid North
series be staged? Tell us about the race and
will test skills as well as fitness. There are no big
Coast, who have formed a loose
what riders can expect to be challenged
climbs, but there are a number of small pinches
so bring a few dollars for a post-race get together
association to deliver the region-
with.
that will take it out of you.
and awards.
It’s a collaboration of Mountain
wide ‘GNaTPACK’ mountain bike series (an
The race loop is the purple loop just under
The upcoming Kiwarrak (Taree) GNaTPACK
We’ll have a few drinks and a BBQ afterwards,
As always, thanks goes to Bourke’s Bicycles
acronym from the town names, pronounced
series race is only weeks away, but we have plenty
10 km. This has a bit of everything and will
Taree, Barrier Signs, Hog’s Breath Café Forster,
Natpack!)
of reasons for you to get yourself to the race.
challenge your skills in fitness, as well as technical
Manning Valley Free Range Eggs, Mackie
skills and is a fantastically rewarding track. It takes
Electrics, and Bruce Pain – RFS for their continued
Clubs from Grafton, Nambucca, Taree,
We’re announcing a major sponsorship for the
Port Macquarie, Armidale, Coffs Harbour and
race! It will now be known as the ‘Taking on the
in some of our favourites, including Mayhem,
assistance in holding these races.
Kempsey all host a round, with the club choosing
Hog’ GNaTPACK series race Taree, as Hog’s Breath
Eureka, The Hut, The Widowmaker, Chads Root,
Who should riders look out for?
the race format. You can do one race or the
Café has given us $400 in vouchers to be
whole series – but once you start, you may find it
given away on the day. These can be
hard to stop!
used at any Hoggies restaurant,
Building on previous years of the Mid North
diner card entitling them to
expanded from 5 to 7, now taking Nambucca and
25% off their main meal
Taree into the fold.
each time they dine at Hog’s
Road Cyclists, Coffs Harbour CC, New England
It really is a track where you will be constantly thinking and working hard, but
plus every entry gets a frequent
Coast Series, the GNaTPACK rounds have
Each participating club, Kempsey-Macleay Off-
Moab, High Noon and Divine.
Breath. On top of that, Mumford
der
Ri participation is “ race, nd arou 100 per
peting with riders com age or en op er th in ei omen, categories for w s.” men and junior
having a hoot too. It also
Just like in 2011, this year’s event will attract riders from Grafton in the north to Sydney and Canberra in the south. As always, the male riders are expected to grit their teeth and put on a show; however, female young talent Holly Harris
incorporates the legendary
from Armidale is a rider to look out for. Holly is
Widow Maker, to keep
currently the under 19s National MTB champion
you on your toes. The
and often visits the area with her father Dave
loop has been marked
Harris, another keen MTB rider.
out for those who wish
What’s the format for the race?
Mountain Bike Riders, Hastings Valley Mountain
Disben is returning to the
Bike Riders, Taree Tip Riders, Nambucca Mountain
bush to entertain us, as they
to get in and ride it before
Bikers and Grafton CC offers its own track for the
did last year! AND, on top of
the race, or you can get to a
series and is responsible for the organisation and
that, the gourmet BBQ is on again
running of its allocated round race. Each track on
after the race, so you can have a feed
offer is different in layout, terrain and character
after you’ve punished yourself and while you’re
from any other in the region, affording competing
hanging around, for your chance to win one of
Parking will be in the usual place on Lantana
riders a fantastically varied riding experience as
those vouchers or other prizes on offer. Now, if
Crossing Rd, just past the tip entrance on the left
they travel from race to race.
that isn’t value for money and reason alone to get
hand side of the Buckets Way. The track distance
It’s highly recommended you come and
your entry in and come and race, I seriously don’t
is slightly shorter than last year (approx. 9 km), as
compete in the MGLTR Club Race the Sunday
know what is.
the GPS wasn’t set correctly. But the track outline
before the race and get yourself a good look at
is correct.
the track.
Rider participation is around 100 per race, with riders competing in either open or age categories for women, men and juniors. It is especially
Every competitor at the 2011 Kiwarrak
Manning Great Lakes Tip Riders Club Race before the event for a good practice under race conditions.
It is to be confirmed, depending on track conditions if it’s wet or dry. It will comprise Under 15s, 17s and women who will complete 2 laps; Open Women will complete 3 laps; Under 19, 19 to 29s; Veterans; Masters; and Super Masters will complete 3 laps; Open Men will complete 4 laps. Where can readers go for more info?
gratifying to organisers to witness a particular
GNaTPACK race said it was a fantastic day, so
increase in the number and competitiveness of
don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience
not stay for the weekend and ride all the other
www.mgltipriders.asn.au and go to the calendar,
junior and women riders. Participation has not
what Taree has to offer.
single tracks we have available before and after
and you will find details on the race, including
the event! Look for places to stay at Old Bar,
online entry details. Don’t miss out!
Harrington, Taree or Forster – there are plenty of
Thanks Meg.
been limited to members from the constituent clubs, and visitors from outside the region
38 manning-great lakes focus.
There are small sections of the short loop, plus bits of the red loop in reverse but, after many,
If you live some distance away, then why
For more info, jump onto the MGLTR website:
focus feature m menin me eniin en nbu business b ussiiness
BUSINESS Craig Mason. East Coast Photography
Ian Carr. Saxbys Pharmacy
JonathonTickle. Your Heritage Financial Planning
Position: Pharmacist Proprietor. Saxbys Pharmacy is a local business, which has long maintained a vision of personal service and high standards of professionalism. The business celebrated sixty years in 2011 and continues to provide outstanding pharmacy health care services, as well as a comprehensive range of beauty and fragrance brands including Estee Lauder, Clinique, Elizabeth Arden, Chanel, Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. Ian has seen a great deal of change in the retail pharmacy industry since starting his career in the 1980s. Currently, there is a lot of pressure to ‘corporatise’ and identify with large chains and franchises – a trend which Saxbys Pharmacy is resisting. “Above all, I value our position as one hundred per cent independent … it means that our first priority is our customer. We are supportive of the concept of Evidence Based Medicine, where the latest and best evidence is used to help patients achieve Quality Use of Medicines,” says Ian. Ian also appreciates the dedication of his friendly staff, who are all keen to maintain Saxbys Pharmacy as the destination for ‘health, beauty and advice’.
Position: Associate Financial Planner. What is unique about your business? I have come into a really experienced team, with both Narelle Riley and Narelle Dark working with my father Alan for nearly 20 years. As a result of that experience, the business remains at the forefront for comprehensive Financial Planning advice. There is an obligation that the client’s interests come first, and we strive to provide a solution, whether it be insurance to ensure sickness or accidents do not jeopardise a person or their family’s financial security, or simply to build a financial future around smart superannuation or Centrelink and retirement income strategy. Business vision for 2012 post the EOFY? As a result of completing the Diploma in Financial Services (Financial Planning), I will be Authorised by Securitor Financial Group to represent them on behalf of Your Heritage Financial Planning from July 1. At this stage, I am specialising in providing advice and solutions around comparisons with Risk Insurance. What is new for your business? We have become accredited with more risk providers, and with a choice of six different companies, we are able to not only obtain competitive prices, but select providers for the features that best suits a client.
Position: Owner/Manager/Photographer/and general duties man. What is unique about your business? Showcasing the natural beauty of our great area. Business vision for 2012 post the EOFY? I am looking forward to a busy wedding season in 2012/13 and have a couple of different ideas to offer my wonderful wedding clients. I also have some personal projects I wish to get started on during the coming months. How have you created your own business opportunities? I suppose the most major was the opening of the gallery just on nine years ago now – the gallery has generated many new customers and a huge following of my landscape work from around the district. What is new for your business? Along with a close photography friend, I am about to conduct my first photographic weekend – a hands-on based weekend course offered to beginners and advanced amateur photographers. This course will help people understand not only the fundamentals of photography, but also their own camera, making them a more accomplished photographer. The course will include all meals and luxury accommodation set in the hinterlands of our area.
manning-great lakes focus 39
BUSINES BUSINESS
H A ILC ILCRA AFT FT
W
hat’s unique about your business? Above all else, what sets Hailcraft apart is their attention to detail, high standards of professionalism, over 18 years’ specialised experience in the industry, and their customer service focus. Dion Roberts has been involved in the paintless dent repair (PDR) industry since 1994 and has established a reputation for quality repairs that push the boundaries of PDR. Dion has repaired hail damaged vehicles throughout Australia and Europe, working for vehicle manufacturers, insurance companies and motor vehicle dealers. His experience is invaluable when it comes to Paintless Dent Removal which is the art of repairing minor dents, hail damage and creases without the need for paintwork or costly panel replacement. Most PDR repairs are performed with considerably less down time compared to conventional panelbeating and spray painting methods. PDR is generally 1/3 of the cost of conventional repairs and has the added benefit of retaining the original panels and paintwork, adding more to your vehicle’s resale value.
40 manning-great lakes focus.
Since opening in Taree in 2007, Hailcraft has been servicing local smash repairers, motor vehicle dealers and insurance companies, as well as private customers. Hailcraft SMART repair is a state of the art repair centre that utilises the latest technology to provide ultra fast repairs without compromising on quality, while keeping repair costs reasonable. What is SMART repair? Small – Medium Area Repair Technology – SMART repairs is a combination of both paintless dent repairs (PDR) and paint refinishing technology (PRT). Paint Refinishing Technology is all about combining the latest advances in paint refinishing and curing systems to provide fast turnaround times, without compromising quality.
through an insurance claim, benefit l i customers t b fit with a fast turnaround and less time off the road, and maintaining the original vehicle with a 1st class repair. We believe our expertise speaks for itself through the finished product. The latest technology is only effective if it is used by someone who is skilled and experienced in using it in the best way for each individual job. That’s why Dion’s experience and ongoing training ensures a 1st class result to repairs. Customers regularly say that they are amazed with the finished job on their vehicle and appreciate the attention to detail taken by Hailcraft.
By combining these two repair methods, Hailcraft can provide customers with cost affective repairs and fast turnaround times.
Business Vision for 2012 To continue to provide 1st class service to our valued clients and maintain the highest level of professionalism with our work.
Hailcraft specialises in minor collision repairs and due to our unique repair process, we can generally keep most repairs under your insurance excess. So for Hailcraft customers, it can mean a major cost saving, compared to claiming the repair through their insurance.
Hailcraft will be expanding further into the restoration and custom panel and paint side of the automotive industry in conjunction with Darren Rapley, who is well known in our area as a qualified, experienced and 1st class spray painter.
That means instead of major repairs and costs
How have you created your own business opportunities? At Hailcraft, we focus on client
ti f ti B h ldi th h t llevell off satisfaction. By upholding the hi highest professionalism and quality repair work, we deliver 1st class results for our customers. We focus on our customers’ needs and fully explain their repair options to suit their needs. Our satisfied customers regularly refer us to others. Our workshop is fitted out with the latest, state of the art equipment, which means customers receive the best result possible. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and adding the extra finishing touches for our customers. What makes your business successful? Success can be measured in many different ways. For Dion, it is the gratitude and appreciation of customers when a job is done to an exceptional standard and their satisfaction. At Hailcraft, every job we do is done to the highest levels of professionalism and quality workmanship utilising the latest technology. We always make an effort to go that extra mile to bring a smile of amazement to our customers’ faces. Customer satisfaction is the most important factor for Dion and his business.
focus feature meninbusiness
Greg McInnes Principal - Bromhead Legal
U N DER N EW MA NAGEMENT A new face at the helm, and the old faces as well, to continue our proud tradition of experience, service and commitment to the Great Lakes and Manning Valley Communities.
B
ROMHEAD LEGAL has been serving the Great Lakes Community and surrounding areas for over 40 years, since John Vaughan commenced the Practice in 1970. Our strong reputation for high quality, personal legal service, delivered with integrity, skill and results, plus our passionate commitment to our community, is now about to be carried to the next ‘baton-change’. On 1 May 2012, GREG McINNES acquired the practice as Principal. STEPHEN BROMHEAD, the former Principal of the Firm and who remains as a Consultant to the Firm, is now the Member for Myall Lakes in the NSW Parliament. Before the move to GLC, Greg practised in Sydney. He included amongst the clients of his firm at that time some of Australia’s largest Companies (including Vodafone, Hutchison Telecommunications, Macquarie Bank, and others). That practice was transferred to a ‘top tier’ law firm. Greg also lectured in the post-graduate Masters’ Programme at Sydney University. Greg’s move came from a love of the local GLC and Manning Valley area and its people and his wish to have a better balance of life. He says with a smile: “In Sydney, everyone wanted to know why our small firm was acting for such prestige clients, and many large competitors were trying to take them away. The pressure was intense. Here, people appreciate you for what you can do.” He says, further, “There is amazing opportunity here that goes unrecognised. For instance, our human resources here – our people, their skills, their
maturity levels, their work ethic – are as good, if not better, than in Sydney. Generally, they are more flexible and less expensive to employ than in the city. They don’t have to travel and don’t have big mortgages. So it’s all better quality and more relaxed. Our medium-term plan is to develop our tendering base, so that we can bring new work into the town.” The first step has been to structure Bromhead Legal along lines of acknowledged existing specialty within the Firm. Thus, the Firm will have 4 Divisions: COMMERCIAL & BUSINESS GREG McINNES, with Business Financial Analysis by KEVIN CALVERT.
ELDER LAW JOHN VAUGHAN; Matthew Bannerman; Marilyn Fitzgerald. JOHN VAUGHAN is not only a Law Societyy Accredited Specialist in Elder and Estate Law. w. John is a respected local icon, whose clientss ected include other law firms. He is known, respected ng and admired across our Community. Tapping into more than 40 years of local service and experience and a love of helping others, John and our team are developing a streamlined ‘Elder Law’ Practice, emphasising:
ing “There is amaz that re he ity un opport ed. For goes unrecognisman hu r ou , instance our resources here – s, their ill sk r ei th , people their maturity levels, as good, e ar – c hi work et in if not better, than .” Sydney
GREG MCINNES has over 37 years of commercial law experience, acting for some of Australia’s largest companies. We are excited to bring new skills to our Firm, enabling us now to handle business and the full range of commercial transactions, to the highest standards and complexity. In the process, we are looking to benefit our community, helping to bring and help structure major new businesses, health resources, communication facilities, and the like.
Business Structures; Acquisitions; Contracts Advice; Corporations Law; Trade Practices Law; Stamp Duties, GST, & CGT; Finance; Business Case Financial Analysis; Business Start Proposals; Business Strategy; Commercial Leases.
Wills; Guardianship & Powers of Attorney; Probate, and all about Estates; Family Provision; Will Disputes; Retirement Planning; Superannuation; Nursing Home Rights; Aged Care Issues.
C O N V E YA N C I N G A N D PROPERTY JO-ANNE JAGOE; Jan Wade. JO-ANNE JAGOE is a Licensed, Specialist Conveyancer. We think that Jo is the best there is – and so do our clients. Jo has support from our team of solicitors and qualified para-legals, so you have complete confidence that every issue is properly considered. Jo handles all property-related work with minimum fuss and maximum satisfaction for work well done. Jo
has been a specialist Conveyancer for over 8 years. Fixed-Price Conveyancing – cheaper than many Licensed Conveyancing Firms; Retail Leases; Nursing Home Leases. F A M I LY L A W A N D CONFLICT MANAGEMENT ANNETTE WILSON; Marilyn Fitzgerald. ANNETTE WILSON has been admitted as a solicitor since 1998 (14 years). Annette is also is a qualified mediator as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner. Annette has extensive experience in Family Law and Court Civil litigation. Annette is also part of the team supporting John Vaughan in the Elder Law practice. Annette has been a ‘local’ for more than 30 years, having raised a family here and is committed not only to good practice, but to helping advance our local community. Apart from her Elder Law practice, Annette will help you in: All Matters of Family Law; Divorce; Property Settlements; Custody & Maintenance; Civil Litigation, including Local Court & CTTT; Local Court Criminal, including PCA and Criminal Defence and Mitigation Pleas.
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BUSINESS SS Trevor B Bottin. ottin.
IN 2012 WE WISH TO FOCUS ON NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND EMERGING CATEGORIES FOR GROWTH IN THE NEW FINANCIAL YEAR.
Dial a Security ecurity Door
Warren Harries. Cameron Illingworth
Midcoast Document Services
Harvey Norman Taree & Forster
Position: Computers Franchisee.
Position: General Manager.
Position: Business Owner.
What is unique about your business? The franchisee
What is unique about your business? Midcoast Document Services is the only professional records management service available on the Mid North Coast. We provide short and long term storage and management of all your business documents, including your current records and vital archive records. All documents are barcoded, which allows us to keep track of all records held, their location and the history of movement. The specific item can be retrieved and returned to you on the same day or next day, depending on your requirements.
What is unique about your business? Over 21 years in business, we have been bringing our mobile workshop to your door, where we can measure, make and install security doors or window grilles.
At MDS, we also have the shredding facilities onsite to provide secure destruction of your confidential business records once they have reached their used by date nominated by you.
What is new for your business? A major point of difference with Dial a Security Door products is that we don’t use standard security screws and instead, choose to use specially designed pop-rivets to secure the window grilles onto the wooden framework, to ensure the highest level of security at home and in the workplace.
model is unlike others in retail. Franchisees are empowered to drive the business in their way. Harvey Norman has often been first to market new emerging technology products, with many great partnerships with key suppliers to make a real exciting impact from day one of launch. It’s good to be part of a company which has such a strong culture of nurture, development and success. How have you created your own business opportunities? By working with voluntary organisations and employment agencies in the local community, ensuring Harvey Norman is part of the area and contributing where we can. We have been a part of the Forster Running Festival, Boaties Race Day, Taree Cricket Club and many more. I enjoy helping out where I can. There’s a lot to be said about doing the right thing in business. What is new for your business? In the last six months, we have added two new sections to our stores – Tablets and Ultrabooks. New fixtures have been installed, which look amazing. We’re looking to do more improvements and refitting of the sales floors in the coming months. Oh, and ‘Phablets’, ha ha. It’s bigger than a Smartphone, but smaller than a Tablet. Who knows what’s next.
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Business vision for 2012 post the EOFTY? To become an extension of our customers’ businesses. We can do this by storing, managing and retrieving their documents as required. How have you created your own business opportunities? At MDS we have recently purchased and installed the latest equipment available on the market for digitising documents. This gives our customers access to the latest technology available. What is new for your business? At MDS we can now digitise your documents to PDF format. This involves scanning documents to our in-house hard-drives, which you can then access through an encrypted portal. These digitised documents can also be provided to you via USB stick if required. This means that locality is no longer an issue. MDS has now become a ‘virtual warehouse’, expanding our business as far up the coast as Coffs Harbour.
How have you created your own business opportunities? We specialise in quality hinged or sliding security doors and window grilles, which are available in either stainless steel or aluminum …
We have expanded our business to now service clients from Harrington to as far south as Bulahdelah. What is unique about your business? Dial a Security Door are members of the ASIAL Security firm and holds a security license to manufacture security doors and window grilles. We are 100% mobile direct to your door, where the job is completed immediately on-site and in consultation with the client. We also offer a wide selection of grille patterns to choose from. Most importantly, we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and offer obligation-free quotes.
focus featu feature u re m menin me eniin en nbusiness
BUSINESS WE’VE JUST SET UP A PERMANENT STUDIO, WHICH CATERS FOR PORTRAITS, NEWBORN BABY PHOTOS AND STAFF PHOTOS, AS WELL AS PRODUCT SHOTS.
Alex Cosway. Redsand Communications
Shane Chalker. Shane Chalker Photography
Keith Lorkin. Great Lakes Veterinary Hospital Forster Tuncurry Veterinary Services
What’s unique about your business?
Name: Keith Lorkin BVSc Hons.
Position: Managing Director.
Certainly our diversity. We cover a wide variety of photography, including weddings, portraits, commercial, real estate and landscapes. We also take unique images of the natural wonders of our area, such as fishing, underwater and wave action. We’re also unique in that our business is home based, allowing great flexibility to meet and work with clients.
Position: Director, Principal Veterinarian.
What is unique about your business? We are the only 'one stop' business communications provider in the Manning and Great Lakes.
What is one of your most recent achievements? I just won 4 bronze awards at the 2012 EPSON international Pano Awards. Over the last three years, our photos have won 21 national and international awards in various categories.
Tell us about your work as Veterinarian... In order to reach a logical diagnosis and practical solution, my role as a veterinarian requires a high degree of intuition and technical knowledge. Empathy for the emotions involved is also extremely important in dealing with the pet-owner. What is unique about your business? Experience. Great Lakes Veterinary Hospital is the longest-standing Veterinary hospital in Forster-Tuncurry. This year I have been practicing for 30 years with 14 years being spent here in Tuncurry. I previously worked for 10
Who else is part of your team?
years at the North Shore Veterinary Specialist Centre in Sydney
Mel, our second photographer, who shoots weddings, portraits and specialises in newborn baby photos. Also Rhonda, my wife, who takes care of administration, marketing and our website, plus keeps the whole machine running smoothly!
gaining invaluable experience in high-tech medicine and surgery.
What is new for your business?
patients. The new site conveniently includes more off-street parking,
We’ve just set up a permanent studio, which caters for portraits, newborn baby photos and staff photos, as well as product shots.
a larger merchandising area, and more room for our dedicated x-ray/
What is your business vision for 2012 post EOFY?
What is your approach to your business? Our business ethos is
Our mission is to use our expertise, knowledge and visual creativity to provide clients with first class images, tailored to suit their individual needs. This means continuing to attend seminars and workshops to keep at the forefront of modern trends in the industry.
to provide a high-quality 24-hour service for our patients. I’m also
Tell us what is new for your business? We’re excited to finally be relocating our practice to Manning Street, Tuncurry. These larger premises have been specifically designed for both our clients and our
ultrasound/endoscope room, surgery, laboratory and kennel area.
a great believer in supporting my clients in their own businesses, which I consider one of the best ways for local community to support one another.
As the only locally based Telstra Business Dealer on the MidNorth Coast as well as exclusive dealers for Samsung Communications, no one else provides the complete package of phone systems, Telstra bundles, lines, Broadband ADSL, data cabling, and VoIP. Business vision for 2012 post the EOFY? Our 2012 vision is to help businesses increase their profits using the latest communication products. With a FREE consultation, we will tell you how much you will save on your phone and internet bills. How have you created your own business opportunities? Supporting local business is key to our success. Being active in local Business Chambers and network groups has enabled us to identify new opportunities. We are constantly improving our product offering and staying at the forefront of communications technology. What is new for your business? Did you know that we are the only locally owned Telstra Business dealer in the Manning and Great Lakes? We currently have two offers with huge savings. 1) Save 50% off your local and STD calls with any new phone system. 2) Bundle a huge 500GB ADSL2+ with unlimited local/STD/mobile calls for only $150/month.
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BUSINESS
Brian Alexander. Manning Tax and Business
Position: Director. What is unique about your business? MTBC streamlines your accounting solutions, so that you can spend more time doing what’s important to you, and we can spend more time helping you achieve your goals. We do this by focusing heavily on technology and training and having a young and enthusiastic team. Business vision for 2012. Businesses must be proactive and adapt to changing circumstances. MTBC shows other businesses what they are capable of achieving by making a few changes to their operations. Too many businesses look for the one big fix; whereas, it is often easier to do 100 things one percent better. How have you created your own business opportunities? We do this by networking and referrals through existing business relationships and looking at new opportunities for existing clients. We often receive recommendations from our satisfied customers, as we make such a difference to their business. What is new to your business? We are currently reinventing the business to create more capacity, so that we can focus more on helping you achieve your goals. Mention this ad before 30 June 2012 for a free business appraisal valued at $330. Phone 6552 3422 for details.
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Terry Murphy. Accountants and More
Qualifications: CPA, BBus, DFP Manager, Principal Accountant, Senior Strategist and Business Adviser, SMSF Specialist. Terry was born in Broken Hill and went to a Catholic boarding school in the Adelaide Hills. He enjoyed the community of boarding school; however, having an adventurous, fast moving mind, Terry felt somewhat constrained by the regimented traditions. Terry disliked school, found classwork boring, but would study to 10.30pm most nights. Terry did not want to be held back and looked to the business world to satisfy his appetite for challenge and variety. Terry worked for a number of different companies and was the Commercial Manager for CSR and James Hardie, looking over multi-million dollar budgets. These days, Terry is widely regarded as the most commercially experienced Accountant on the Mid North Coast. Terry is a CPA accredited accountant and a Financial Planner. What is new for your business? Terry has expanded his team of accountants, whom are all degree qualified and CPA accredited. Their services are now available throughout Forster, Taree, Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga, Gold Coast and Warriewood areas. The team at Accountants and More can help improve profitability and viability of your business, with experienced guidance and a wealth of knowledge that can give you the confidence to keep moving forward.
focustechnology. with Cameron Illingworth from Harvey Norman.
focusfishing.
with Tony Elkins from Forster Estuary Charters
. g n i h s fi
TECH
Getting things done.
ith this being the ‘Men In Business’ episode, I thought I’d share some of the GTD (Getting Things Done) tools that I use to organise and prioritise my business day, as well as resources for increasing my knowledge.
and I can never miss a task or appointment (unless I forget to put it in; there’s no software to fix that yet!)
I use Microsoft Outlook 2010, as it has many great features which span across all of my devices. Most tablets and smartphones have setup options specifically designed for Outlook, and many of the program’s features merge in with the software on the mobile device. The big three features which make Outlook the one for me are the Calendar, Contacts and Task List.
by clicking on subscribe, it should proceed to download the series for you. You then need to copy them to your iPod or whatever portable music device you use, to listen to them on the go, or just listen to them on your computer.
W
My next thing would be podcasts. What is a podcast you say, looking confused? Podcasts are audio files which are subscription based. I subscribe to many different podcasts, some for entertainment and some for business. There are many Email has to be the biggest time sponge different programs available to get these in my workload. If it’s not reading, it’s audio files, most notably iTunes and responding, wondering what Zune. I use iTunes for mine. It’s to do with, or working out a free download and works why it’s been sent to me! rather well (go to www. e th be to s ha l ai Because it is such a big Em itunes.com). Once you ge in biggest time spIfon part of what I do, and have downloaded the t no s it’ my workload. onding, maybe the same for software and installed sp re s reading, it’ do to t ha w g you, I’ve decided that it, go to ‘Store’ inside rin de won ng out combining it with my with, or workise the software and just to why it’s been nt daily tasks makes great search for what you like. me! sense for me. They are mostly free and
All three are customisable down to the colour of your appointments and tasks, with the layout well aligned and conducive to a good work flow. When your outlook is synced with your mobile device properly, any appointment task or contact created on one device is almost immediately available on the others. I have 2 computers, a tablet and a smartphone,
The business podcasts I like to listen to are mostly on the 5 by 5 network, by Dan Benjamin (www.5by5.com). The podcast ‘subscribe’ links on some sites will actually open themselves in iTunes to save you the work. For people in business (or not) who travel long distances, podcasting can really be a great way to catch up on news or learn things while on the run. Talk about good use of available time! I hope you find these as useful as I do. Happy Men In Business month … CI.
Wallis Lake ... the winter wonderland. It is that time of the year again, when the mornings and evenings are getting cold.
tony elkins he days still have some nice warmth to them, and the fishing cycles change.
good Dusky or a nice Blue Lip Bream, for that matter, taking your lure on the surface. Winter is also a good time to target Leather Jackets. There have been some nice Fan The water temp is fluctuating Bellied Jackets around the weed beds on between 16 – 18 degrees at the moment. The full moon is on June 4, and Wallis Island; also, around the pylons on the oyster lease is a good place to try for them. the new moon is on the 20th. Fish light, and small hooks is the way to At the time of writing this report (end catch smaller Bream and Tarwhine. of May), big Blue Lip Bream are So please don’t use stainless down around the entrance to hooks, and consider taking the lake – not a bad time the barbs off the others. At the time of to fish off the breakwall rt po re Yes, it makes it a bit harder is writing th or the corners of the ue Bl g bi ) ay M of to keep your fish, but the (end wn beaches targeting these Lip Bream are do nce to ones that are returned are tra huge fighting fish. Off around the en done so with a far greater . the lake the rock wall or beaches, survival rate. I would stick with bait It seems to be that a lot of our fishing using Mullet or Tuna locals are targeting Luderick at cubes. the moment – and with good reason; Around the leases in the paddock, I they’re about in good numbers. A fairly finite have been having some fun with stick baits art fishing for Luderick, but when you have – the same type of hard body floating sticks mastered it, you will have a ball. Pound for that I use for chasing Whiting on the sand pound, they would have to be one of the flats. best fighting fish in the estuary system. As For those still wanting to chase the humble for an eating fish, I think they are hard to but mighty Dusky Flathead, I have had good beat. Filleted, skinned and crumbed is my reports of fish being taken in the shallows preferred method of cooking them. around Coomba Park. Whether it be at Fish well; travel safe. Coomba or further up the rivers, I would be Tony Elkins, looking to the shallow water, where the fish Forster Estuary Charters. are getting a bit of warmth. www.forsterestuarycharters.com Fishing in the shallows is a fantastic way to http://www.facebook.com/forster-estuarytarget the Flathead, particularly with soft charters/Forster-Estuary-Charters/ plastics. There is nothing like watching a Mobile. 0427 431 131. manning-great lakes focus 45
Reaching Resolutions
[ with Midco ast Mediation ]
“The heaviest thing you can carry is a grudge.”
W
e’ve all been there – wronged by a loved one, a best friend, a family member, or a work colleague. When trust is broken, it’s normal to feel angry and betrayed, and often these feelings turn into a grudge against the person who treated you poorly. While holding a grudge may feel good for a while (you’re in the right after all, aren’t you!), the weight of the unresolved conflict can start to take its toll. And if you’re the one carrying it – it’s your quality of life that suffers. How do you resolve a grudge? The most important first step is to acknowledge that both you and the person you’re fighting with have played a part in getting you to where you are today. Just as every coin has two sides – every conflict has at least two people! The next step is being willing to hear what each other has to say – and to really listen to what is said. This is often the most challenging step, because this is when your emotions are high and tempers are short. What if you can’t talk to each other? If you’ve stopped talking to each other (and don’t know how to start again) – you can turn to a mediator for help. A mediator is someone who is professionally trained to help people in conflict work through their differences in a way
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that is respectful, constructive and calm. What if the conflict is in your workplace? Recently, a small business owner asked us to help him, as his business was suffering due to a workplace grudge. Two staff members had disagreed about a change in work responsibilities, which resulted in a heated exchange, and they had refused to work together for the last three months. The business owner tried to sort it out himself, but was accused by one of the staff members of taking the side of the other staff member, because they’d been with the business longer. How can mediation help? Using the mediation process to resolve this conflict, we first met with both staff members separately. This gave them the chance to tell us their side of the story. We then invited them to come to a meeting together. This gave them the chance to tell each other what had happened and clear the air, without the risk of old arguments erupting. By helping them talk to each other, we were able to help them understand each other’s views and concerns and come up with ideas for how they could get along at work. This made work a more enjoyable experience for them – and a more profitable experience for the owner!
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MANNING-GREAT LAKES
property guide.
You need to be quick to keep up with trends, particularly in the world of interior design, which is only slightly less fickle than fashion. Trends are driven by a diverse range of factors, including contemporary culture as well as past, current and future innovations. If you are styling your home, just remember that there is a fine art to the process – and it should ideally involve some considered research and retail therapy. Inspiration is all around us, with showrooms, magazines, friends' homes and the internet all great sources. If you are unsure of where to begin, check out the following pages for an idea of what is hot right now and available in our local area…
Coasting Home Specialise in beautiful, but affordable home decor. They offer decorating and styling tips to bring out the best in your home. Along with a fabulous gift line, they also have a range of sustainable and recyclable products. Find them on Wharf Street in Forster for an enjoyable shopping experience.
40 Winks Forster For a good night’s sleep, call into 40 Winks Forster, at 89 The Lakes Way. Helen and her friendly staff believe that having a quiet and restful bedroom environment is essential for a good night's sleep and have over 20 years' experience selling beds in the Manning-Great Lakes area.
In House Homewares In House Homewares is located on Wharf Street in Forster, where you will find a treasure trove of furniture and homewares to suit all tastes. From women’s fashion accessories, including hand bags, scarves and boots to trendy furniture, kitchenware, bedding, cushions and bedspreads, In House has something for everyone.
Casa Loco Casa Loco has all your kitchenware and entertaining needs covered. Supplying everything from Maxwell Williams designer dinnerware to up to the minute glassware, kids cutlery sets, chopping boards, knife blocks ... you need it in the kitchen, Casa Loco has it in store. Check out the store in Victoria Street, Taree; you’ll be surprised at what you’ll find.
Vast Interior Kelly from Vast Interior at Breese Parade, Forster is waiting to work with you to create your desired interior haven. Make an appointment today with her Interior Stylist, who can help you with an initial home consultation and in store product review. Kelly can assist you with colour choices, home decor accessories or simply provide you with inspiration.
Bagowoodworks Bagowoodworks from Wauchope are experts when it comes to providing you with beautifully handcrafted, contemporary furniture and joinery from Australian hardwoods. New owner Jarrod is excited about the company’s future and invites you to his showroom for a closer look. You are sure to find a piece of furniture that will last for generations. 48 manning-great lakes focus.
Home Decorator
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The ability to fall asleep quickly, wake up when you want to feeling refreshed, and remaining bright and alert until it's bedtime again. hy proper rest is so important. Getting sufficient quality sleep largely determines your energy levels, mental alertness, health and happiness – plus your capacity to wake up in the mornings feeling rejuvenated and raring to go. While lack of sleep is unpleasant rather than necessarily harmful, it invariably impairs concentration and leaves people more likely to make mistakes ... which, among other things, creates a real danger when driving. Regularity, Routine, Restful bedroom and the Right bed are the 4 Rs of enjoying better sleep. To improve sleep quality, it’s always a sound strategy to stick to regular ‘going to bed’ times that are in-sync with your biological clock, having your own special routine that sends a sleep signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down. Traditional hot drinks or a bath before bed can both be helpful when they’re associated with going to sleep. Generally, the things to avoid are eating right before bed and engaging in activities that overstimulate your brain.
Having a quiet and restful bedroom environment is also clearly essential for good sleep, a dark, cool, non-humid room with the right bed for your body (and bedding for your climate) is the ideal situation. The foundation of good sleep is – having a comfortable bed with a mattress that supplies the correct support that suits your body weight, shape and comfort preferences. Put simply, this means that you will potentially toss and turn less on the right mattress and as a result, you will wake up in the morning feeling better and not have stiff joints and muscles. When to invest in a new mattress A number of factors affect how long your mattress will continue to provide optimum comfort and support. Indeed, it’s useful lifespan will vary considerably depending on its quality, its frequency of use, the wear and tear it receives (a heavier person will wear out a bed more quickly than a lighter one – and a couple more quickly than a lone person) and how well it’s been cared for. As a general rule, however, even a good quality mattress, with normal use, should not be expected to last more than
around 7 - 10 years. Knowing when to invest in a new one really gets down to following your instincts – and asking yourself a few home truths: Am I starting to wake up with neck or backache? Has my mattress become tatty, torn or stained? When I’m laying in bed, do I feel springs or ridges under the surface? When I move in bed, do I hear creaks, crunches or groaning sounds? Do my partner and I keep rolling in towards each other? Would I be embarrassed if a friend saw my bed without its covers? When your bed ceases to be a pleasure to sleep in, it’s simply the right time to replace it. As Australia’s largest specialist bedding re-
tailer, Forty Winks offers a comprehensive range of leading brand beds, mattresses and pillows, giving you every opportunity to test the best in backcare and find the one that suits your needs. Forty Winks Forster is a family owned and run bedding store, with over 20 years' experience selling beds in the Great Lakes and Manning districts. Whether you are looking for a complete new look for your bedroom, contemporary or traditional, or if you are an allergy sufferer or have a bad back, we have an option that will suit you. Our incredibly keen prices offer you genuine savings – and for added comfort, the outstanding product knowledge of our professional consultants further ensures that you are always in a position to make the most informed bedding decision possible.
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Creative Design Aussie Hardwoods. bagowoodworks – combine creative design with Australian hardwoods, to create fine contemporary furniture and joinery. An exciting change to an iconic business has taken place, with the purchase of bagowoodworks by Jarrod Butlin. After overseeing management duties for the past 4 years, Jarrod has now taken on ownership and brings with him almost 20 years of experience in timber door and window joinery. Although relatively unknown and rarely used in the furniture industry, local Australian hardwoods such as Flooded Gum, Blue Gum, and Blackbutt, to name a few, are skilfully transformed into unique contemporary furniture that will last for generations.
At Vast Interior, we have a team of buyers who travel the globe to bring you the widest selection possible of unique home furnishings and accessories. With such infinite variety, we have an in house design consultant on hand to help you purchase wisely.
So whether it is furniture, windows, doors, or commercial machining, bagowoodworks have the experience to deliver exactly what you desire in fine contemporary furniture and joinery.
Franchisee Kelly Williams is a qualified interior stylist and will assist you with product selections, colour choices, home decor accessories to complete the look you are after, or simply provide new inspiration for your home or commercial space. If you love the ‘Vast’ style, than who better to help you recreate the look! Make an appointment today with our Interior Stylist in store. What’s included: • Initial home consultation and product review in store • Custom tailored solutions • Written quote We love working with you to discuss your desired style, objective and budget and make your vision a reality!
Give them a call on 6585 1595, check out their website: www.bagowoodworks.com or call into the showroom in the Wauchope industrial area at 45 Commerce Street.
Call into the Vast Interior – Forster store, located at Shop 16/21 Breese Parade, and see for yourself the beautiful selection available.
bagowoodworks offer you over half a century of combined experience in a broad range of timber joinery. This, along with a large well equipped workshop, including a cnc workstation, enables the timber craftsmen the ability to supply a wide range of joinery to suit all tastes.
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Your Unique Home.
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Heartworm Protection. Causes, treatment and prevention of heartworm in dogs. What is heartworm? Heartworm disease (dirofilariasis) is a serious and potentially fatal disease in dogs. If left untreated, the heartworm starts to reproduce in the right ventricle of a dog’s heart, where it causes symptoms of congestive heart failure such as coughing, exercise intolerance and eventually death. How is heartworm transmitted? Heartworm is transmitted by mosquitos; when a mosquito bites an infected dog to feed, they inject the microfilariae, which can then be spread to other dogs. Treatment of affected dogs is risky, as they can die during treatment, due to the rapid dying off of worms in the heart causing blockages. What’s the best way to prevent heartworm? The easiest way of preventing heartworm is with an injection called proheart. This is first given to puppies at 12 weeks of age, then a second injection given three to six months later. After that, the injections are annual. This annual treatment will keep your pet safe from heartworm and guarantee you as a pet owner peace of mind. To ensure your beloved pet is safe against heartworm, PRESENT THIS ADVERT AND RECEIVE 33% OFF A HEARTWORM INJECTION for the month of June. For more information and a video on heartworm, or to enrol for a free monthly newsletter packed with interesting pet articles, see our website: www.capehawkevet.com.au. Call 6554 5811 to make an appointment for an annual heartworm injection.
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focusTourism.
Kerry Johnstone from Great Lakes Tourism
focusbusiness.
sharon fowle. Kerry Johnstone
UPDATE The latest figures from Tourism Research Australia show that tourism to the Manning Valley is worth $163 million per annum in visitor spend. In 2011 alone, the Manning Valley hosted over 675,000 visitors, with more than 276,000 of them choosing to stay overnight. Despite these massive figures, over the winter months tourism becomes an almost silent industry. Suddenly our car parks are empty, our beaches deserted, and our restaurants no longer require bookings. For locals it can feel like a blissfully quiet time; for anyone in the tourism industry, it can be a nail biting wait for the peak season to begin again in earnest. More than ever, winter is the time for locals and your visiting friends and family to get out and about and really enjoy your area while supporting local businesses. It may well be winter, with shorter days and colder nights, but sun is shining and the show must go on. Take this time to enjoy the solitude by visiting one of our excellent cafés or restaurants, pop in to a local community market, throw a line out off the Harrington break wall, visit one of our boutique vineyards, catch a show at the Manning Entertainment Centre, go exploring at a quaint museum in Tinonee, Wingham or Cundletown, or jump into one of our 9 National Parks and reserves for a quiet shady stroll at a time of year when the heat or rain is unlikely to spoil your meanderings. An excellent day trip that works in any season and is enjoyed by so many of our visitors is a trip to the iconic Ellenborough Falls. For those of you not familiar with the falls, they are located in the rural community of Elands and have attracted visitors since the late 1800s. Ellenborough Falls is the second highest waterfall in the southern hemisphere, with a single drop of 200 metres. The falls are stunning and the sound is deafening, as you watch 1000s of litres of water
valley plummet straight down into the valley. There are two walks at the falls, a nice easy 10 minute stroll to the viewing platform and for the more adventurous, a steep walk down 641 steps to the bottom of the valley. I can think of no better time of year to attempt this walk, as you do not want to be walking back up these steps in the height of summer. To get the best Ellenborough Falls experience, head up over the weekend or school holidays, when the Ellenborough Falls Kiosk is open. Sit in the winter sunshine, and enjoy the tasty offerings cooked on site by the friendly kiosk ladies. Mouth watering gourmet pies, sausage rolls, pasties, cakes, coffee, tea, hot chocolate and if you are lucky, the lightest, fluffiest scones with jam and cream I have ever tasted. While you sip your warm beverage and enjoy your freshly baked afternoon tea, keep an eye out for Eric the bush turkey, who is likely to come pecking at your feet for any crumbs you are prepared to offer. Winter may be cold, and it may be quiet, but it is short lived, so enjoy the solitude and sunshine while it lasts, support your local businesses, and make sure that if you have some visitors in town, you are showcasing the stunning community you live in ... at least it will get you out of the house! When driving to Ellenborough Falls, be aware that there is 15 km of unsealed road, so please drive to the conditions of the unsealed road. For more information on Ellenborough Falls or local community events, pop into the Manning Valley Visitor Information Centre at 21 Manning River Drive or go to www.manningvalley.info
lla Wheeler Wilcox, an improving their chances of promotion. American Author and Poet Consider taking them out for a bite to eat said, “A pat on the back is or a couple of drinks after work on a Friday. only a few vertebrae removed Morale will increase, as will productivity and from a kick in the pants, but customer satisfaction. Employers who initiate is miles ahead in results”. The fact is that if generous work-life benefits for employees you take care of your employees, they will often result in keeping their talent. take care of your customers. Businesses can High performing employees lead to better often be more concerned about the bottom opportunities or pay. This is an acceptable line than their employees. But what you reason to move to pastures greener, however don’t always realise is that your employees the real impetus more often than not remains are affecting your bottom line – significantly. unknown. It begs the question why are they Following a well-managed and structured looking for new jobs in the first place? system in your business can help steer your It seems that the real reason is more business and employees in the right direction. about the negative impacts in the work For a business to be successful, environment. Poor leadership it needs to have good practices or challenging management and clear workplace cultures may be This year we direction. A management pushing many out the door. ned an an pl ve ha team should have a Eliminating or at least here open forum, wth e plan – one with short, minimizing these factors ve ha ill w you put medium and long term will leave employees with opportunity topa nel questions to a r the goals. They need to be the feeling that you are on applying fo open to listening, while taking care of your greatest awards. also understanding and resource – them. involving their employees. Keep your employees Where there is conflict, engaged with frequent discussions it is important to stand back and about performance expectations, ascertaining the cause, before jumping teamwork, leadership styles and company in with a solution. If you are experiencing performance. Always accentuate the positives difficulty addressing complex situations, but be realistic, don’t ignore the challenges consider having an independent mediator or the difficulties. Using these methods help your business. Understanding your should help to avoid abrupt resignations or employee personality types needs to be taken employee loss of performance commitment. into account. Communication is a key factor It’s important to know that it’s a real and it is not always an easy thing to do. problem when a manager fails to act and We often don’t know people that we the behavior of a poor performer negatively work with well enough to have an open impacts the commitment of high-performing conversation to ascertain how they are employees and teams. It is heart-wrenching “feeling”. It is a positive move to create a when you realise the disrespect you show healthy, open environment where employees when you allow someone to hold a job feel safe that they can have a discussion with where their self-esteem is diminished and you about their position in the organisation. they do not have the respect of their peers. It’s all about taking care of people. If you The goal of Marriott Hotels is not just lose your people it will be a costly exercise to "employee satisfaction" but "employee replace them. engagement," where the employees believe A recent NIOSH study reported that more themselves to be part of something special. than 50% of employees view job stress Have you considered getting involved as a major problem in their lives which is in the Great Lakes Business Awards, you double from a decade ago. That’s got be could be in the running for an “Employer effecting their performance. Employees of Choice” award. Perhaps you have feel acknowledged for their work when the implemented some of these skills, if so then employer invests in them through training or go to our website and fill in an application.
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Catherine Vaara. Lifeline provides vital and ongoing services to help support our community. Catherine Vaara, CEO Lifeline Mid Coast, explains some of these services from a local perspective ... lease provide a brief description of your career background ... I studied at the University of New England (UNE). My first job after graduating was a Social Worker position at the Dubbo Base Hospital. I left Dubbo to live and work in Valdez, Alaska and ended up staying for almost 12 years. While in Alaska, I worked as the Direct Services Coordinator and then as CEO for a not-for-profit called Advocates for Victims of Violence – a women’s shelter which also provided training in villages, court advocacy, counselling services and a 24/7 crisis line run by volunteers. What led to you becoming involved with Lifeline in the first place? When I was studying at UNE back in the ‘80s, one of our lecturers recommended we volunteer at Lifeline as a way of learning and practising counselling skills, so I have been acquainted with Lifeline for many years. It wasn’t until I began working for a not-for-profit organisation that I really appreciated the work they do – I became aware of a commitment and passion for community that I hadn’t experienced before. When I returned home to Port Macquarie and saw an opening at Lifeline, I thought it would be a great career opportunity. Lifeline Mid Coast is truly a community based organisation and now in my 9th year, I am very proud to be at its helm. What’s involved on a day-to-day basis with your position as CEO? This is a remarkably hard question to answer. As the CEO of Lifeline Mid Coast, I am responsible, under the direction of our Board, for providing leadership and operational management to achieve Lifeline Mid Coast’s vision and strategic direction. On a daily basis, I may be closely involved in a very real crisis intervention, be a guest speaker at a local organisation, or sitting at my desk writing grant submissions. I am also keenly involved in Lifeline at a national level, participating in strategic directions or discussions to improve services at national, state and local levels. I am also closely linked to my staff and volunteers and feel privileged to be part of an organisation that values the input of its workers. I may attend training sessions for crisis workers, or I could be visiting one of our 6 Lifeline shops. My days are very full and varied. Where are the local branches of Lifeline located, and what services are offered? Lifeline Mid Coast has two offices, one in Port Macquarie and one in Taree. Lifeline Mid Coast’s core services are crisis support and suicide intervention and prevention. Specifically we provide: training in Lifeline’s Telephone Crisis Counselling; 24/7 Telephone Crisis Support through Lifeline’s 13 11 14 number; Support
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After Suicide (SAS), a bereavement support group for those in our community bereaved by suicide; Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) workshops; SafeTALK and Suicide Talk presentations; memorial services at Christmas time to remember family and friends who have taken their own life; and together in partnerships with other community groups, we also provide community forums. Lifeline is a community based organisation which relies on volunteers in our Crisis Support programs, as well as in our shops. In fact, Lifeline Mid Coast’s shops are the backbone of our organisation, providing about 80% of the funding needed for our crisis and suicide prevention services. Other funding comes from donations, bequests, sponsorships, and local grants. However, both State and Federal funding supports Lifeline, particularly in developing and maintaining our quality of training and our computerised in telephony system. I’m interested s e’ lin ife L Without this mix of g in develop t or p p funding and support, role to su d We do our best to limit the Red Croisssatan we would not be able s n io n ga or er landfill waste, but rely on h ot to provide the vital involved inaster our community to recognise services that we do. communityryd.is the need to be selective when What are some of recove providing donated items for the changes that have re-sale. been implemented locally On average, how many people during your time at Lifeline? would you estimate use Lifeline’s We are now answering the calls services locally each week? from anywhere in Australia, instead of just This is also a diffi cult question to answer. from our local area. Since going national in Think about a pond and the dropping of one 2007, Lifeline Mid Coast is answering calls from pebble into it; that pebble causes many ripples. people in distress from every state and territory This is how I see our Lifeline volunteers. The skills in Australia and even from places like Japan and they learn radiate out, touching many lives, not Serbia. It’s an amazing feeling to know that you only on the phones, but also in their personal have made a difference in someone else’s life, and working lives. Statistically, Lifeline answers and we are now supporting more people than about 500,000 calls a year; Lifeline Mid Coast ever. answers around 10,000 of those crisis calls. Transitioning into a Registered Training About 40% of our calls come from our home Organisation (RTO) was another significant area, the rest from anywhere in Australia. Our change. We are now providing a certificate Life Matters Coordinator provides support to IV level of training and yes, universities still approx. seventy people who have been bereaved encourage their psychology, counselling and by suicide and many more through the provision social work students to volunteer as a Lifeline of resources to schools, organisations and other Crisis Supporter. individuals. We estimate we have trained over We’ve also initiated a lot of change in our 1,000 on the Mid North Coast in ASIST, and shops, especially in their presentation. We hope our memorials services are attended by 20 - 60 to provide a happy and comfortable shopping people each year. experience to our shoppers. We believe that What would you like to see Lifeline achieve donated items need to meet a standard before over the next 12 months? we allow them into our shops, and we believe I’m interested in developing Lifeline’s role to that we all deserve nice things, and this is support the Red Cross and other organisations possible even on a low income. involved in community disaster recovery. We believe in recycling and when an article Lifeline has well trained volunteers, who can of clothing doesn’t meet the standard for rebe quickly mobilised in times of need. We are sale, we turn it into industrial rag for re-sale.
deeply imbedded in our community, and I think we are under-utilised at times. I would also like to challenge more men to think about volunteering. Truck drivers, men to help in our shops, crisis supporters and even men to work on odd jobs makes a huge difference to our organisation’s ability to function at its peak. Having the courage to get out of our comfort zone is always challenging; however, volunteering has many rewards and is worth a try. How can the community become involved in helping Lifeline? We rely on volunteers in our shops and on our crisis support team. Volunteering is crucial for our organisation; without them we would have no shops, and we would not be able to provide the services we do. Interestingly, research is now discovering the benefits of volunteering to the individual. People who volunteer are happier, and tend to be healthier, and evidence suggests volunteers are less like to have symptoms of dementia. Lifelong friendships and bonds are formed while volunteering. We are always in need of quality used furniture, homewares and clothes. Donations and sponsorships are also deeply appreciated and go directly into providing community based services here in our region. Thanks Catherine. Interview by Jo Atkins. Lifeline Mid Coast is online at: http://www.lifeline.org.au/About-Lifeline/ Lifeline-Locations/Mid-Coast-NSW/home
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