Focus 75 - Greater Port Macquarie

Feature Story GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Fiona Joy Hawkins

February 2012 // issue 75

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WEDDINGS 2012

I N S I D E 75

MIRIAM MARGOLYES The UK star of stage and screen is one of the world’s most celebrated character actors; we chat to her about her upcoming performance in March.

GWENETH NEWELL This month, Susie lunches with local Peloton Espresso owner ‘Gwennie’ Newell.

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editor's note.

DON’T MISS CELEBRITY AUTOBIOGRAPHY A night of non-stop laughter direct from Sydney Opera House as outrageous celebrity memoirs are read live on stage by Mikey Robins and a cast of comedic geniuses.

You will weep with laughter.

WEDNESDAY 1 FEBRUARY, 8PM. Tickets: $49.50 Adult

MORNING MUSIC WITH IAN STENLAKE Don’t miss this star of Australian musical theatre performing live on stage at the Glasshouse as Ian pays tribute to the great, joyous musical theatre songs of our time.

editor.

from the

MONDAY 6 FEBRUARY, 11AM. Tickets just $24.50

jay beaumont.

SIMON TEDESCHI AND IAN COOPER Simon Tedeschi will be performing everything from Bach to the coolest swingin’ jazz with jazz violinist Ian Cooper.

Welcome to the February issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS. y the end of this month, summer will be officially over – but not before we enjoy a whole heap of fun, entertainment, friends, family and some quality time with the outdoor BBQ.

B

While I was having a quick swim at Flynns Beach this summer, I placed my towel next to an elderly woman from Sydney, who was relaxing under a sun shade. She asked me, “Is it always this nice?”

I looked around and ... well, yes! It’s normally just like this. I think a lot of us, including me, are guilty of taking our beautiful coastline for granted ... the good weather and clean, mostly uncrowded beaches. “If you lived here, why would you bother going on holidays?” she asked.

If you’ve let the rat race get the better of you over the summer, I can highly recommend taking the ‘coastal walk’ along our stunning coastline. Almost everyone says hello as you cross paths.

From Lighthouse to North Harbour, we have some of the most stunning coastline anywhere, and you will often spot the odd dolphin or whale breaching at the right time. It’s a great way to get back in touch with everything that’s so amazing about where we live.

SATURDAY 11 FEBRUARY, 8PM. Tickets: $34.50 Adult

JOURNEY OF FLAVOUR CAR TRAIL Are you looking for a fun day out with the family or work colleagues? Last year’s Journey of Flavour Car Trail was a huge success, with over 50 teams entering. This year looks to be even bigger and better, with the day finishing on the Town Green – and there’s over $3,000 in prizes to be won. For more details, check out the centre page spread.

KATIE NOONAN WITH ELIXIR The incomparable songstress Katie Noonan is joined by Elixir as they perform the sublime chart-topping album First Seed Ripening.

WEDNESDAY 29 FEBRUARY, 8PM. Tickets: $39.90 Adult.

COFFEE MORNING FROCK STARS Meet Curator Glynis Jones from Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum and learn what really goes on behind the scenes of Australian Fashion Week.

COMING SOON ON THE IPAD The team at FOCUS is really excited to be launching our very first iPad app, featuring all the latest editions of FOCUS. Never miss an issue of your local FOCUS again! Go to www.focusmag.com.au/ipad FRONT COVER A big thanks to Matthew Jorgensen, from Matthew J Photography, for our front cover this month. Matt’s photos are amazing – and he’s not a bad surfer either.

FINAL SAY “I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” Martin Luther King

FRIDAY 24 FEBRUARY, 10AM. Tickets: $5, $3 Friends

THE SEARCHERS The Glasshouse brings you The Searchers on their 50th Anniversary concert tour. Experience this legendary British group now!

SUNDAY 26 FEBRUARY, 4PM. Tickets just $59

IN THE GALLERY FROCK STARS, Ed Duncan and a celebration of Port Macquarie High’s most creative graduates from 24 February.

Belinda Howden, Flannel Neck, 2010, c-type print, courtesy of the artist.

Jay Beaumont – Editor jay@focusmag.com.au

JUST AROUND THE CORNER SYNCOPATION

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ADDRESS: 4/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 PHONE: 02 6584 7433 FAX: 02 6584 6733 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au 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. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 62128786005 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2009-2012 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

WEDNESDAY 7 MARCH, 8PM THURSDAY 8 MARCH, 11AM & 8PM

EDITOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

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WISH I’D SAID THAT

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FRIDAY 9 MARCH, 8PM SATURDAY 10 MARCH, 2PM & 8PM

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

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See glasshouse.org.au for full event details

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COPY EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse jo@focusmag.com.au / reg@focusmag.com.au

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FOCUS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THESE GREAT COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS.

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SATURDAY 11 FEBRUARY, 11AM

(02) 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie

greater port macquarie focus 3

focusinterview.

D AV I D R E AY .

The Port Macquarie Marina has received a new lease of life lately, with major extensions underway and a new General Manager behind the desk. David Reay took up his new position last October, and he tells us there are some exciting things in the pipeline ...

i David. What’s your background?

I moved to Port Macquarie when I was in primary school.

I started at Port Macquarie Primary, and then went through St Joseph’s and MacKillop.

After I left school, I joined the Navy – I actually did two stints there. My first stint in the Navy was for 11 years, and I did a tour of the Middle East/Iraq on HMAS ANZAC as an Officer of the Watch. It was a very interesting time during 2002/03, with the war on Iraq, as it was the first time a Royal Australian Navy ship had fired in anger since the Vietnam War. After I left, I worked as Assistant Manager at Port Macquarie Race Club, which gave me a lead in to work at Queanbeyan Race Club.

I left the horse racing/Thoroughbred industry after working there for a couple of years, because of the Equine Influenza epidemic that hit, and I went back to the Navy for another 4 years. This time I was involved with a 6 month anti-piracy patrol off the Horn of Africa and other operations associated with the Afghanistan campaign onboard HMAS MELBOURNE. All up, prior to leaving the Navy for the second time in March last year, I’ve completed 15 years of service - working my way up from Admin Clerk up to Navigator of a frigate.

Having grown tired of being at sea, I moved back to Port Macquarie - and I was very fortunate when the job with the Port Macquarie Marina came up when it did.

What is involved with your role at the Port Macquarie Marina – and when did you start your new position?

I’m the General Manager, which entails managing the retail and commercial tenants of the marina, and I’m also responsible for the boats and customers who visit – both short-term and long-term visitors. I look after the slipway 4

greater port macquarie focus.

that we rent to SeaKing Marine, and I also refuel boats when they pull into the marina. I’m kind of a one stop shop actually (laughs), with accounts, admin, project management and even doing maintenance work when required.

I started as GM in October last year.

What are some of the renovations/ extensions planned for the marina?

We’ve already replaced one of the wharves and it’s made a huge difference to our operation. This happened in December last year, and we’ve had some fantastic feedback from people who’ve already used it, especially visitors for the Golden Lure.

We’re planning to replace the existing berthing arms and also extend the marina by building an additional berthing arm out towards the fuel wharf. Currently we’re a 64 berth marina, and when the new berths are completed, we’ll be able to cater for close to 100 boats. We’re able to cater for boats up to 18-20 metres in length at the moment, but only on one arm. The majority of boats berthing here range in length from 8 - 12 metres.

The second berthing arm is due to be replaced in March/April this year, hopefully followed by the sea arm after that and then the new arm off the fuel wharf. This will make the Port Macquarie Marina comparable in size and capacity to other larger marinas up and down the coast.

The marina was originally constructed over 30 years ago, and demand has increased now to the point where we need to cater for more – and bigger – boats.

The retail complex is also being renovated.

What was originally the dive shop is being gutted, and there are plans to turn it into a café with an outdoor deck area. We hope this new café will be operating before Easter next year.

We’re also in discussions to establish a new eating venue where Scampis restaurant was formerly located.

The gardens and of interest from outside the The marina wasd ucte landscaping around town, as well as from within originally constro, and over 30 years ag eased the complex will be the area. We’re known by demand has incr revamped, and a new the boating community as a re he w t now to the poin for more boardwalk will be built small marina at the moment, r te we need to ca s. around the building to but providing improved at bo – er gg bi – and the waterfront. facilities will encourage more It’s hoped the large out of town boaters – and this shed currently located on the will help us to promote the local property will be rebuilt to rehouse area, the bar and our waterways. the commercial tenants, allowing for an We do already get quite a lot of visiting expansion of the existing retail space – but that’s boats from out of town, because we are about further down the track. half way between Brisbane and Sydney. Major The aim is to have a steady roll out of boating companies such as Maritimo and Riviera improvements, with the replacement of the deliver boats up and down the coast and call in berthing arms being the first priority. Replacing to Port Macquarie to rest and refuel. We see the the arms will increase revenue for the marina potential for this to increase. through increased capacity and use of the What else would you like to see happen at facility, and this increased revenue will in turn the marina in months to come? help the planned expansion of the marina’s The idea of all these renovations is to attract other areas. people to the marina, so they can enjoy the We’re talking quite a significant investment waterfront and café/restaurant facilities and a on the part of Ariadne, the Port Marina owners, great time out. We want to encourage families here – the replacement of the berthing arms to visit ... it’s a marine sanctuary here, so no alone is very expensive. fishing is allowed, but I’d love for kids to come In an ideal world, and obviously it’s down and feed the fish. There are some gooddependant on many outside factors, when sized fish in the water here! would the planned renovations actually be The dragon boat clubs and fishing clubs use completed? the facilities here; people attending the Golden By the end of this year we’d like to have Lure fishing competition each year berth their all the arms replaced and the renovations boats here, and I’d like to see that continue. completed for the new café and old Scampis We had 11 boats involved with the Golden Lure restaurant area. Replacing the drystack shed on visiting the marina this year. the property would more likely happen in 2013.

I’d also like to try and arrange some fun, It’s a massive job we’ve taken on – even just family water events in the future – things like moving all the boats from their berth, trucking a bathtub derby, for example. We don’t really all the new pontoons down from a company have those kinds of events here, and I think the called Superior Jetties in Queensland; it’s going community would really get behind them. to take quite a while to complete everything.

Thanks David.

What would be the benefits to the Interview by Jo Atkins. community of the planned renovations at Photo: David (right) with Golden Lure veteran of the marina?

28 years, John Fitzpatrick of Newcastle, on the Extending the marina would generate a lot new berthing arm.

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inside this

Issue 75 - February 2012

6.

Fiona Joy Hawkins Fiona Joy Hawkins – composer, pianist and singer, calls beautiful Kendall home these days. Fiona describes her distinctive style and glorious voice as New Age and cites Bolero’s Ravel as one of her most powerful musical inspirations ...

Miriam Margolyes

12.

UK star of stage and screen, Miriam Margolyes OBE is one of the world’s most celebrated character actors. She is currently in Australia touring her one-woman show, Dickens’ Women, following a successful season in the West End in London – and it’s coming to Port Macquarie.

42.

my Community

Thara Thai Thara Thai Restaurant in Wauchope has been blessed by Buddhist Monks to celebrate 2 years in business – and to bring ongoing luck and prosperity to all those present. Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of being invited to witness the event and chats with owner, Thara Watson.

8. Jenny Edmunds - The Westport Club 15. Beccy Cole + Gina Jeffreys 16. Lasiandra Festival 60. The Searchers

usual suspects.

the

10. what’s on for February 26. eat featuring local restaurants 39. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 41. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 63. tourism with Janette Hyde 64. starguide with Terri 85. port chamber update with Robert Turner 99. real estate with Greg Trembath 99. landcare with Estelle Gough

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Fiona

H AW K I N S .

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greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Fiona Joy Hawkins – composer, pianist and singer, calls beautiful Kendall home these days. Fiona describes her distinctive style and glorious voice as New Age and cites Bolero’s Ravel as one of her most powerful musical inspirations ... hereabouts in this area do you call home?

I live in Kendall. I was born in the Hunter Valley, raised in Tamworth and I was living in Newcastle when I fell in love with a man from Kendall – and we’re getting married in April.

I really love living in Kendall. It has a lovely village feel, and it’s a wonderful place to write music, because it’s so peaceful.

Congratulations on your engagement! You obviously have a lot to keep you busy at the moment, as I understand you’re wrapping up your tour of Two Grand I’m Yours with fellow performer Trysette Loosemore ...

Yes – we did our final concert at the Sydney Conservatorium, in the Verbrugghen Hall, and it went really well.

How was the overall response to the tour?

We’ve been invited back just about everywhere we played, and from the concert we did in the Verbrugghen Hall, I’ve been invited to play at some major music awards at the Opera House next year. One thing has just led to another!

Now, reverting right back to the beginning … I read that it was a fascination with Ravel’s Bolero that really inspired you musically?

I was about 8 years old, and my father had a lovely turntable. I used to put the record on and sit right in front of the speakers. What intrigued me about the piece – and still does – is how the music builds … how the instruments come in one at a time and how the piece changes intensity.

I would listen to it over and over again and try to work out how it was constructed. In essence, I guess I tried to deconstruct it. Still to this very day, I think back to Bolero and how it was constructed and use it in my own music. I was very influenced by it.

I’m guessing you managed to catch Torvill and Dean’s magic performance on the ice to

that particular piece of music years later?

Oh yes … so many times I’ve watched that. It was stunning.

How old were you when you started your piano training? e My grandmother lived Sometimes these et pl m with us from the time I was sing. I’ve always sung, but I co a as e com ularly 8 years old, and she had a didn’t really think of myself surprise – partic beautiful, old German iron with the ARIA cause as a singer … particularly nomination, bed me framed, upright piano. It in the New Age genre, the ABC entereen was about 100 years old, where the voice is used as ev ’t and I didn with ivory keys. I just fell in an instrument and vocalising . ! know love with it straight away. I is used in layers. New Age is a asked my mother how to read very different approach to vocals. music – and she showed me where Is that how you describe your Middle C was on the piano and how the own personal style? New Age? staff and stave worked, and for me it was a bit Yes, I am New Age. In New Age, probably like a jigsaw puzzle. I worked out how to read the mantra is there is no integrity greater than music fairly quickly, and within 6 weeks I was the intention of a single note. It is about music playing the first page of Fur Elise. I asked for that comes from deep down; it’s music that’s piano lessons – and I loved them! conceptually derived from thoughts, images and I decided I didn’t want to be a concert pianist emotions – it’s storytelling. as an adult; I wanted to be a composer and play Obviously it’s been very successful for you. my own music. But I was always too scared to do How many albums are you up to now? it – it isn’t something you see on most people’s In terms of original albums, I’ve done 5 and I business cards, that they’re a composer. I didn’t have 2 coming out 2012/early into 2013 already think it was avery realistic thing to do, so I’d recorded. I’ve done a number of compilations as always put it on the back burner – even though well – I have 3 SACDs (Super Audio CDs) for the it was the thing I wanted to do most. overseas audio market.

It took me until I was 38 to get into the You’ve received a lot of accolades for music recording studio – that was 10 years ago now. too – being an ARIA finalist and a MusicOz It took me all that time to get there … it’s like Award winner. Are these accolades a when you have a wonderful dream in your head motivational force for you, or more of an that you can always visit; it’s so tangible, but if icing on the cake? you try to do it in reality, you risk failing – and The ARIA was for World Music and the you lose the dream.

MusicOz was for Classical Jazz, because that’s When I did finally give it ago, it was because the crossover I have … where New Age crosses my mother gave me some words of wisdom over into Jazz and World Music.

– telling me that if I didn’t give it a go, I’d Sometimes these come as a complete surprise have wasted my life. So I tried it ... doors kept – particularly with the ARIA nomination, because opening, and it’s been a wonderful journey. the ABC entered me and I didn’t even know!

When did singing enter the equation? Did it These accolades are the icing on the cake for me start around the same time as the piano? … it’s not the be all and end all, but it is so lovely No. When I went to boarding school in Sydney, when you get one. there was a guitar I used to play – and I’d sit and With albums already in the works, do you

have any more live touring planned?

Two Grand I’m yours has now been picked up by a promoter in America, so we’re taking it to the US in July/August. And it’s been so successful here, we’ll probably come back and revisit a lot of venues later on next year.

So, among multiple album recording, wedding plans and touring, you’ve somehow managed to work a Christmas album, called Christmas Joy, into the mix as well – which is also doing exceptionally well!

I tried to do something that wasn’t cliched with the Christmas album. I did Walking in the Air in Gaelic, Still, Still, Still with a Paraguayan Harp and Jingle Bells with didgeridoo and an African Talking Drum. And it seems to be working, because it’s been getting some nice reviews!

It hardly seems possible that you’d have time to squeeze anything else into your schedule, but I know you also love to paint. What else do you love to do to help you relax and keep those creative juices flowing?

I like to go Tango dancing with my fiance.

I love cooking, listening to Folk music, taking drives in the country and drinking coffee! I actually have quite a few paintings on display at Blue Poles Gallery in Byabarra.

Thanks Fiona.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

Buy the albums at: www.fionajoyhawkins.com.au or visit the ABC shop in Settlement City.

greater port macquarie focus 7

focusinterview.

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Each year, our local clubs provide thousands of dollars worth of assistance to our community through the Club Grants program. Jenny Edmunds, Chair of the Hastings Club Grants Committee, fills us in on the program and the valuable service it provides in our area ...

Jenny hat’s your position with the Westport Club and also with the Club Grants program?

I’m the Marketing and Community Co-ordinator with The Westport Club, and I’m also Chair of the Hastings Local Committee of what was previously known as the CDSE (Community Development and Support Expenditure) scheme. That title changed on September 1, 2011 to Club Grants.

The name change to me is significant, because it actually defines that the grants come from the clubs themselves; whereas there was a lot of confusion before that the grants came from a combination of clubs and local government. We do work closely with local government to establish priorities and what is needed in our community, but 100 per cent of the money comes from the clubs.

In essence, what exactly is the Club Grants program all about?

Club Grants emanate from money that has been set aside by the government and returned to the clubs for the purpose of distribution among community, welfare, education, employment and sporting groups.

It’s money that the clubs would otherwise have paid in tax, but instead goes back into supporting the community. The money is used in different ways; there are opportunities to assist community and welfare organisations – and a lot of clubs partner with these organisations. At The Westport Club, we have strong community links with The Salvation Army and Lifeline. We also support organisations like Marine Rescue, Rotary and Probus, among others.

Under the Club Grants program, qualifying clubs contribute a minimum of 25 per cent of their Category One funds to the Hastings Local Committee’s pool of money. The funds are allocated at the discretion of each club, working closely with the Local Council, Community Services and NCOSS. The grants distributed through the Hastings Local Committee may only be used to fund Category One projects – which cover welfare, community, education and employment.

Category Two funding is fully distributed at the discretion of individual clubs. Category Two covers sporting organisations and some other types of community activity. The Westport Club alone has 13 sub and affiliated clubs which we sponsor. The sub clubs (where all members are also members of The Westport Club) include the bowling clubs, travel club and the Euchre club. Affiliated clubs include Port Saints Soccer, Port Saints Netball Club, Senior Men’s, Women’s

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and Junior Cricket Associations, Thunder Hockey Club and Pirates Rugby Union Club.

Category Three is a new category, and the State Government is still to confirm exactly how it will work. The description of this Category states that it will be “a contribution of 0.4% paid quarterly into a state wide funding pool known as the Club Grants Fund for large scale projects associated with sports, health and community infrastructure”. That’s as much as we know about this category at present – we have briefings in late February that will tell us more.

A lot of what we try to do with Club Grants is to fund projects, rather than fund ongoing commitments. For example, last year the local committee funded new equipment for a childcare group in Lake Cathie and a new fence for the Comboyne Community Preschool.

The grant to Comboyne Preschool was for $10,000 and was funded from all of the local clubs involved in the Local Committee.

Another grant funded from the Committee was Lifeline’s telephone counselling services, who received just over $10,000. The Hastings Local Committee can fund grants from $600 up to $10,000.

Each Club also have specific projects they continue to support. One of The Westport Club’s projects is a literacy program. We partner with Dymock’s Children’s Charities, and that’s been a very successful program where we put books and educational facilities into schools. To date, we’ve provided around 7,500 books to schools in our community, and it’s continuing to grow. In the first quarter of this year, we will inject another $11,000 worth of resources into local schools and community preschools.

What clubs are associated with the Hastings Club Grants scheme?

The clubs involved in the Hastings Local Committee are The Westport Club, Port City Bowling Club, Port Macquarie Panthers, Wauchope RSL Club, Laurieton United Servicemen’s Club and North Haven Bowling Club.

How do community groups desperately in need of funds seek help from Club Grants?

Each club widely advertises the Club Grants program on its websites. Notices also go into the local newspapers – particularly advertising the pooled funds held by the local committee, and Council assists us in notifying of the annual Club Grants round.

A lot of welfare groups actually approach clubs individually. As the Community Coordinator at The Westport Club, I like to establish a relationship with the community groups we support – it’s not all about simply

handing out a cheque and saying goodbye; it’s about building an ongoing relationship. I feel all clubs are moving this way now.

It can be hard sometimes – we can’t be everything to everybody. The Hastings Local Committee receives requests for funding of anywhere between $300,000 - $400,000 each year. The Committee last year distributed $110,000 worth of grants. There are so many worthwhile projects out there, and that’s where it comes back to assessing the priorities in our local area.

The Committee has worked extremely well, and there is great collaboration between the clubs. One of my aims is to provide better education to the local community, so we are able to communicate exactly what is available under the Club Grants scheme across all categories.

I would also encourage community groups to read the guidelines before submitting an application, so that they understand where their request for funding fits within the guidelines.

Groups should ensure they have clear objectives and outcomes for their projects and details on what resources are required and how the life of the project can be sustained.

When is the next round of funding likely to be allocated?

The Club Grants’ funding year runs from 1 September to 31 August, which is the same as under the old CDSE scheme. The Hastings Local Committee will open up applications for the combined pool of funds in early March. Applications will close on April 30, so community groups will have two months to get their applications in.

This year the application process will be done online. Clubs NSW have introduced a new system, where applications can be entered online and tracked by the Committee – which will provide a more efficient process for reporting.

Why do you feel the Club Grants program is so important?

Club Grants enables community groups to finance projects that may not normally

attract funding from other sources. Clubs are all about giving back to the community, and Club Grants allow us to do this in an extended format. It’s a great opportunity for community groups – even the small ones situated in areas like Lake Cathie, Comboyne, Pappinbarra and Beechwood, to tap into a pool of funds they may not otherwise have had access to.

Does the proposed Mandatory PreCommitment Legislation affect the future of the Club Grants Scheme?

Yes, the proposed legislation as is recommended by Andrew Wilkie, would have significantly affected Clubs’ community contributions. Clubs are not-for-profit, community based organisations, whose central activity is to provide infrastructure and services for the community. The Government’s announcement in January to deviate from the Wilkie model and offer a full and proper trial of mandatory pre-commitment (in the ACT) is encouraging, as it will provide evidence to support future policy development with regard to problem gambling.

This issue is still such a hot topic, and there is still so much debate amongst the various political parties, that our industry will continue to lobby State and Federal Governments to work with the club industry to bring about a sustainable resolution – and one that will not see the demise of Clubs as we currently know them.

What action can community members take to support the Clubs?

We feel that the most important issue in this debate is that the proposed legislation will not assist problems gamblers with their addiction.

We understand there needs to be some kind of reform, but it should not destroy clubs as we know it. If community members are concerned about this issue and the long term viability of their local clubs, they should contact their local member, or they can go online and visit one of the club’s websites and fill in the survey they’ll find there about the issue.

Thanks Jenny.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

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W H AT ’ S O N A RO U N D T H E R EG I O N / / F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 2

15 what’s Beccy Cole & Gina Jeffreys Ladies in Red

Longtime best friends, Gina and Beccy, come together again on stage with a special chemistry – two-thirds of the highly successful Songbirds show! You will hear all the girls’ timeless hits, plus some special duets. Special guest on this exclusive run of shows is the amazing country voice of young Georgia White.

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Where Port Macquarie Panthers.

When 9 February 2012, at 8pm.

Phone (02) 6580 2300.

A fundraising fashion event celebrating everything red! Featuring fashion, jewellery, makeup and hair art from across the Hastings.

Red carpet, ruby red cocktail on arrival, private DJ, fashion show and luscious canapés. Wear something red and raise the roof!

12

When Thursday 16 February 2012.

Contact Rydges on 6589 2811 for further information.

6 Tai Chi & Qigong Tai Chi and Qigong for health and relaxation. Instruction by local Chinese trained master.

When Beginners’ classes start February 6 – 7pm.

Where Scout Hall, Hollingsworth St, Port Macquarie.

Phone 6583 3886

more information

Annual Grape Stomping Championships with Jazz in the Vineyards

21

Championships combined with the monthly Bago Vineyards ‘Jazz in the Vineyards’, featuring entertainment by the ‘Reds’ Jazz quintet. This is a fun day for all the family, plus Australia's longest running Grape Stomping, ‘The Annual Open Grape Stomping Championships’ and the ‘Media Grape Stomping Challenge’. Hot and cold food will be available, along with wine tasting and cellar door sales.

When Sunday 12 February 2012.

Contact Ian Adams by phone on 6585 7099 or by email at ian@bagovineyards.com.au for further information.

Frock Stars Gallery Exhibition Created by the Powerhouse Museum in collaboration with IMG Fashion, Frock Stars is a captivating behind-the-scenes look at the history, highlights, glamour, controversies and achievements of Australian Fashion Week.

When Saturday 18 February 2012 to Tuesday 24 April 2012 Contact Box Office by phone on 6581 8888 or by email at boxoffice@glasshouse.org.au for further information.

A new collection of Central Desert Art A new collection of Central Desert Art has just arrived at Alpitye At Port Aboriginal Art Gallery.

Alpitye At Port offers you quality artwork at affordable prices.

Where 1/19 Short St, Port Macquarie.

Phone (02) 6584 4883.

Web www.alpityeatport.com.au

Call the Visitor Information Centre on 6581 8000, or log on to the new Port Macquarie events website: www.gpmevents.com.au

10 greater port macquarie focus.

18

feb

focusinterview.

Multiple ARIA winner, Katie Noonan, is a vocal phenomenon in her own right ... but team her with guitarist Stephen Magnusson and saxophonist Zac Hurren, and what you get is Elixir! The trio will perform at the Glasshouse on February 29.

K a t i e

H

i Katie. Please introduce us to Elixir ...

It’s always hard to describe your own music, but I guess the best way to describe Elixir would be a Folk/Jazz trio, which features my husband Zac Hurren on saxophone and Stephen Magnusson on guitar. It’s a trio of friends who make gentle, intimate, private music. That’s what we try to do with our sound ... create this little cave of music.

Elixir has always been about poetry set to music, so our latest album, First Seed Ripening, was inspired by the words of great Australian poet, Thomas Shapcott.

Thomas was born in Ipswich in 1935; he’s obviously lived a lot more years than I have and has a wonderful way of describing the world – so we set his words to music.

What was the incentive to actually form Elixir?

Basically, I formed the band not long after George [another musical group Katie is a part of], and it was because I wanted to have an environment in which I could do quiet, intimate, gentle music – which didn’t suit George, as we’re a full five-piece band with drums etc. So Elixir came from my desire to have that kind of music in my life.

Where did the name Elixir come from?

I guess it comes back to the reason behind our music ... to create this gentle, calming world. An elixir is something you drink to make you feel better or to help you heal an ailment, so I liked the idea of that as a band name, as it’s kind of what we do with our music.

You’re touring at the moment with Elixir’s second album, First Seed Ripening. How does this album differ from the first album you released?

A lot ... the main thing being there’s a different guitarist, so that’s an enormous difference, and for the second thing, it was a different poet. The approach to the music

N o o n a n

making is still the same; the overall kind of vibe of the band is still the same, but it’s also quite I was different now. commissioneddby Stephen Magnusson the Queenslan to Queensland, but Tom’s joined the band about Poetry Festivalof set the words ing or words really suited Elixir 6 years ago ... and also, any writer, liv – the the best. He loves music, we made that first album ic us dead, to m ing, and I think you can quite a long time ago be g in th only om sense that in his poems – around 9 years ago. they had to be fr as well.

I feel I’m a much better Queensland.

What’s your favourite musician now and a better piece written by Thomas? songwriter as well, so hopefully I don’t really have a favourite ... the improvement shows. but I do particularly like the title track, First As you mentioned, it’s been 9 years Seed Ripening. The lyrics are amazing; they’re between albums for Elixir. Was there any about the wonder and glory of a pregnant particular reason for this, or were you all woman. Making an album is a very creatively just busy with other projects? fertile process in its own way ...

Pretty much the latter. Elixir has always And I guess it could also be described been kind of my side project around George; as a bit of a gestational process in some George was always my main project and respects too! kept me very busy. And then, I finished with Yes! It is, but usually longer than 9 George to focus on being a mum and a wife months (laughs). But this record was pretty and I started a solo career. It just felt right to accelerated, because we wrote it as a trio. go back to Elixir and make it my main project We’re such busy people that we basically set about a year ago, so that’s what I did. two songwriting sessions over a few days and What is it about poet Thomas Shapcott’s wrote the bulk of the record in those two work that inspired you to create this new sessions. And because we are improvising Jazz album? musicians, we made that album completely live The nature of his writing really suits Elixir. together – so we made the record, including He’s a very diverse writer, but I find with his the stringed instruments, in 6 days. works I’m immediately in the story, and it’s So by modern standards, that’s pretty quick! very intimate and private. There are very close By old traditional standards, it’s probably relationships between lovers, and mother and nothing new, because people used to play child and between parents and their children live a lot more. But nowadays people want to ... all of these relationships are expressed so multi-track etc, and I’m more a fan of live. beautifully. He has really good content that You’ve achieved a lot of personal success suits the concept of Elixir – kind of like a with your career – ARIAs, platinum perfect match. albums, accolades. What’s the next project I was commissioned by the Queensland or dream for you?

Poetry Festival to set the words of any writer, You’re only as good as your last gig, so living or dead, to music – the only thing being, they had to be from Queensland. This gave me every gig I want to make as good as possible and improve, constantly evolve and sharpen a lot of amazing options: David Malouf, Judith my skills as a musician. The best way to do Wright. There are lots of great writers from

that is to work with musicians who have different skills to you and work with people from all walks of life. This is the best way, I feel, to accelerate you growth as a musician and is why I collaborate with so many different musicians.

The next project for me is I’m recording with Karin Schaupp; she’s an incredible classical guitarist. And then I’m writing something new for the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, called Love Song Circus, setting female convict letters to music and working with a great circus company called Circa.

How would you describe your show to aspiring audiences?

A chance to get away from the world for a little while and just relax and be lulled into a gentle, intimate space with music and sharing stories written by a great Australian poet.

Wonderful musicians ... Zac and Stephen are both national Jazz award winners and ARIA winners, and we’ve just won an ARIA for this album as well.

And we’ve never played in Port Macquarie as Elixir – ever! I’ve only played there as George, and that was quite a long time ago!

Thanks Katie.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

Tickets to Elixir Date Time Venue Tickets

Wednesday, February 29.

8pm.

The Glasshouse.

$39.90 adult, $30.50 concession, $24.50 under 21/student.

Visit www.glasshouse.org.au or contact the Box Office on 6581 8888

greater port macquarie focus 11

focusinterview.

Miriam UK star of stage and screen, Miriam riam Margolyes OBE is one of the world’ orld’s most celebrated character actors. ors. She is currently in Australia touring her onewoman show, Dickens’ Women, n, following a successful season in the Westt End in London – and it’s coming to Port rt Macquarie.

M

iriam Margolyes will give two performances of Dickens’ Women at the Glasshouse on Tuesday 17 April at 7.30pm and Wednesday 18 April at 11am.

The national tour has been scheduled to tie in with Charles Dickens’ 200th birthday.

Nominated for an Olivier Award, Dickens’ Women has toured throughout the UK, USA, New Zealand and India.

Bringing to life twenty-three of Charles Dickens’ most affecting and colourful characters, Margolyes presents her powerful, comprehensive, and at times hilarious expose of Dickens the writer and the man – and the real-life women who found themselves immortalised on his pages.

As Melbourne’s Age newspaper reported, “When she appears as herself, Margolyes sparkles with intelligence and enthusiasm .. when she inhabits Dickens’ characters, you’d swear they lived and breathed in front of you”.

In the show that she co-wrote with Sonia Fraser, Margolyes presents characters from Martin Chuzzlewit, Sketches by Boz, The Uncommercial Traveller, Nicholas Nickleby, The Old Curiosity Shop, Oliver Twist, Domby and Son, David Copperfield, Mrs Lirripers’ Lodgings, Little Dorrit, Great Expectations and Bleak House, plus excerpts from Dickens’ Collected Letters.

Mrs Micawber from David Copperfield, Miss Havisham in Great Expectations and the grotesque Mrs Gramp in Martin Chuzzlewit are just some of the characters Margolyes brings to life on the show.

Miriam Margolyes is a regular visitor to Australia. As a young woman, Miriam developed a friendship with Manning Clarke’s daughter Katerina and spent many days at their home in the Southern Highlands, where she now also has a house.

12 greater port macquarie focus.

She has appeared on stage with Melbourne Theatre Company and Sydney Theatre Company and between February and April this year, Miriam Margolyes is appearing in the ABC1 television adaptation of Kerry Greenwood’s Phyrne Fisher Murder Mystery Series, set in Melbourne in the 1930s.

With an extensive film and television career, her credits include Ladies in Lavender, Being Julia, End of Days, The Life and Death of Peter Sellers, How to Lose Friends & Alienate People, Gertrude Stein, with Barbra Streisand in Yentl, and as Professor Sprout in the film adaptations of Harry Potter.

She has appeared alongside Rowan Atkinson in Blackadder (playing Queen Victoria), and on the BBC three hit series Merlin, Doc Martin and Stephen Fry’s Kingdom. In 2006, she starred as The Nurse in Baz Luhrmann’s acclaimed film adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet.

As a voice actress, Margolyes has given life to some of film’s most memorable characters, including Fly, the Dog, in Babe, The Matchmaker in Disney’s Mulan and the Singing Teacher in the Oscar-winning Happy Feet.

International stage credits include Sir Peter Hall’s Romeo & Juliet and The Importance of Being Earnest, The Threepenny Opera, The Vagina Monologues and most recently A Day in the Death of Joe Egg at the Citizens Theatre, Glasgow.

Margolyes appeared as Madame Morrible in the West End and Broadway productions of the smash hit musical Wicked.

Winner of a BAFTA-award for Best Supporting Actress in Martin Scorsese’s The Age of Innocence, Margolyes has also received Best Supporting Actress at the LA Critics Circle Awards, a Sony Radio Award for Best Actress, and multiple Theatregoers’ Choice Awards.

Miriam Margolyes at the State Library of NSW recently, reading a rare First Edition of Oliver Twist.

Miriam Margolyes is passionate about Charles Dickens, whom she describes as “a dazzling complex genius, both demonic and caring – an important figure in English literature, who is perhaps the greatest prose writer that we have ever had”. Margoyles believes that only Shakespeare has matched Dickens’ ability to enter our imagination.

“Reading Dickens is a lifelong activity for me. I think it is important to read Dickens aloud, to fully appreciate the characters he has created. When Dickens was writing, he would often read aloud and in character.”

Margolyes says she feels like “a missionary taking Charles Dickens into the dark continent of people who don’t read classics or long books any more. There is a whole range of imaginative experiences that I want to awaken. People are watching screens all day – cinema, TV, Nintendo, computers, gadget screens, telephones.

I see people on the bus reading their telephone when you can get the whole of Dickens’ books for free online. You just need a Kindle!”

Dickens’ Women is a theatrical

experience which has wowed audiences across the world. It is moving, dramatic, funny and pure entertainment. The show is guaranteed to reignite an interest in rereading Dickens, satisfy the large band of Dickens’ fans or open the door to Dickens’ world for the very first time. Magic.

the plug!

To book tickets for Miriam Margolyes in Dickens’ Women, on Tuesday, 17 April at 7.30pm or Wednesday, 18 April at 11am: (02) 6581 8888. www.glasshouse.org.au You can also find out more on www.dickenswomen.com including several live interviews with Miriam Margolyes. The Port Macquarie performances of Dickens’ Women are presented by Andrew McKinnon Fine Entertainment and Arts and Health Australia www.artsandhealth.org

greater port macquarie focus 13

after

after

before

before

Belinda Hawkins

The freshest of food at a truly authentic paddock to plate event

Sheryl Turner

A new ne you starts with EBPT. It is 1938 in Nonnberg Abbey..

In Austria, the nuns are going ng about their daily tasks, but toward evening, it becomes apparent that the postulant ’Maria’ is not among them. Maria is out on the mountain, enjoying nature and ’The Sound of Music’ in the air, and although she has the permission of the Mother Abbess, she returns very late indeed.

The Mother Abbess and the other nuns are forced to conclude that Maria is not yet ready for the religious life. The Mother Abbess decides to send Maria out of the Abbey to become temporary governess to the children of Captain von Trapp, a retired officer of the Austrian Navy.

I started training at EBPT, because I’d had enough of how I looked, couldn’t fit into any of my clothes and had no energy.

As we all know, the first step is the hardest, but I went along to my appointment – and both Graeme and Lisa were great. They are there to help, and you don’t feel like they are judging you.

I have lost about 17 kg to date and yes, there have been days when I thought Lisa was trying to kill me – but she did show me what I’m capable of, which made me believe in myself and try new things. I know I could not have come this far without her help. Belinda Hawkins (Runner Up Client of the Year).

I have been going to EBPT since March 2011, when I was a shocking 119 kg. After hearing about results they produced for other people, I thought I might try it out.

The Captain has become a martinet since the death of his wife, and the children are little machines, but Maria teaches them to sing and to enjoy life.

I was depressed, had no self-esteem and would eat more to comfort myself. My doctor said I was on the verge of Diabetes and had dangerously high cholesterol. It was time to act.

The eldest child, Liesl, is in the throes of first love with Rolf Gruber, a village boy and steals out to meet him. Maria wins her confidence, and that of all the other children as she entertains them during a thunderstorm. The Captain returns from a trip to Vienna with his fiancée, Elsa Schraeder, and a friend, Max Detweller. The Captain is astounded to find the children singing, but reluctantly joins with them, caught by the beauty of the song.

The first time I went to EBPT, Graeme and Lisa were so welcoming; they did not judge, and I have never looked back.

Graeme assessed my ability then put a plan together, which incorporated nutrition and fitness. From the word go, Graeme was there, encouraging me; but best of all, believing in me. I am now a size 14, after losing a whopping 31 kg, and I love the new me. Thank you EBPT – you have changed my life forever – Sheryl Turner (Client of the Year).

The Players Theatre Inc C e l e b r a t i n g 5 0 Ye a r s 1962 - 2012

COMING SOON Educating Rita 20 April – 6 May 2012

The One Act Festival 9, 10 & 11 June 2012

P la y e r s T h e a t re Box O ffic e 6584 6663 C n r Go r d o n & Lo rd Sts Po rt M a c qua rie w w w . p la y e rsthe a tre . o rg. a u

14 greater port macquarie focus.

Spend a unique evening in the Hastings hinterland.

Roam around our organic market farm, Near River, and then indulge all your senses in the virtues of real local food, and how it is grown, where it comes from, and who grows it.

Enjoy a sumptuous four-course meal in the middle of our market garden, accompanied by the finest local wines and craft beer while being serenaded by a string quartet.

Know that you’ve enjoyed the freshest of food at a truly authentic paddock to plate event ... in the paddock!

The evening starts at 6pm on Saturday, March 3.

You’ll need to book at: www.mealsinthefields.com It will cost $120 each, but for now, $30 secures your place at the table – and places are limited. A portion of your ticket price will be donated to the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation program at Comboyne Primary School.

Chat with us directly on (02) 6587 6004. Our farm, Near River, is a 45 minute drive along sealed roads from Port Macquarie at 1466 Pappinbarra Road, Hollisdale. A bus with limited seating has been chartered for this event and can be booked with your tickets.

focusinterview.

Australian Country Music legends, Beccy Cole and Gina Jeffreys, visit the region again to perform at Panthers on Thursday, February 9 at 8pm.

We caught up with the best friends of 20 years to find that fame and industry acclaim hasn’t affected this downto-earth duo one little bit …

Cole + Beccy Cole You’ve been at the forefront of the Australian music landscape for nearly two decades and are a prolific recording artist, having released seven studio albums. What motivates you?

Life and people. I just love travelling and I love the creative part of me that finds songs everywhere. My favourite thing to have happen is when a ‘trigger’ goes off and there is an urgency about putting what I have just experienced into a song.

Wherever I am, I have to stop and capture the emotion of the moment, and this is where I feel I find good results. Believe me, I’ve written many duds to come up with the selections that make the records, but it’s a process ...

Most of all, I love the growth I see when I look at the music on those seven albums, and I count my blessings that I’ve been given the opportunities to explore that growth. I never get complacent about my position in the industry. I’m not the best singer, player or writer in the world; but I am hard-working, and it is very important to me that I give people something they will enjoy. That comes before any self indulgent urges I might have!

Songs & Pictures is your most recent release and your most personal album to date ... one which you solely financed. What sets this album apart from your others?

These songs are real. Each one is from an experience that I have lived and reported on first hand. I can’t explain how much I enjoyed making this record, other than to say that the process was a dream come true and the results of making the album in this new and different way are extremely precious to me.

From the artwork and photographs, which were provided by two very close friends (artist, Judy Nadin, and photogra-

Jeffreys pher, Lauren O’Brien) to the musicians (my touring band, rather than studio musicians) down to a new Producer, in the very talented Shane Nicholson. These were all new steps taken to make the songs come to life in an exciting and different way for me.

You’ve won a slew of Golden Guitars. How proud are you of this achievement? Where do all the awards live?

Golden Guitars are not something we set out to win when we make records.

Winning them, however, is the most incredible feeling of accomplishment that one can experience in my industry. I’m extremely proud of those little fellas, and they hold pride of place on a borrowed baby grand piano that belongs to Sara Storer (I think she’s forgotten that I have it, as it’s been here for a couple of years now!) This is where Sara also kept her accolades, and I love the tradition that I have upheld here!

In February, you’re performing a run of shows with Gina Jeffreys. How did this come to be?

Gina is one of my closest and dearest friends. We were bridesmaids for each other, as well as touring at length with the Songbirds (also with Sara) for over three years. Gina and I just took our families on a camping holiday together, during which I not only beat her several times at Scrabble, I was also witness to a fine moment of her coming an absolute cropper on the ‘bomber’ behind a friend’s ski boat. Special times. We’ll be friends forever; we know too much.

Performing with one of your best friends is such a special feeling … add to this, that I believe Gina Jeffreys to be the woman who singlehandedly changed the way women were perceived in our industry, and you have a unique combination.

I can’t wait!

Thanks Beccy.

Gina Jeffreys What can the audience expect from your impending performance with Beccy at Panthers?

As Beccy mentioned, we were each other’s bridesmaids (two weddings and one divorce!) We’ve been best mates for nearly 20 years, so watching us do a show together is like watching two old friends out on a girls’ night out! Lots of laughs, lots of stories and of course, a bunch of great music.

Both you and Beccy live on the Central Coast and have been friends for time eternal. How did you meet, and what do you like about performing with Beccy?

Beccy and I met in Tamworth in the early ‘90s. She is the first person I ever met who loves Country Music like I do. I grew up in a country town and all those years ago, you didn’t tell your friends you loved Country Music! So when Bec and I met, it was like we had found our tribe.

We found someone else who shares the same passion … Somewhere to feel like you fit in, I guess.

Then we quickly realised we share a crazy sense of humour. I haven’t stopped laughing with her since the day we met.

Being on stage with Bec is ridiculous fun.

Our main aim is to make the other one laugh so hard, that they can’t sing!

What’s next for you?

We are about to record a new album, and I’ll be back out on the road for more fun! My life at home now is quite different to how it used to be, because I run a performance school on the Central Coast. So these days, I spend most of my time mentoring and helping develop new talent – and I absolutely love it.

Thanks Gina. greater port macquarie focus 15

festival

wauchope

focusinterview.

Two fantastic events will kick start Wauchope’s 28th Annual Lasiandra Festival – the Lasiandra Swing Dance and the Lasiandra Cabaret Evening. Chrissy Jones tells us more ...

T

he first event of the 2012 Festival the show will be larger, with cast all drawn from the calendar will be hosted by the Hastings area. There will be some familiar faces, new Wauchope Rotary Club. Proudly cast members, terrific routines and a few surprises. sponsored by Meltique Beef, Oi Brianna Rankin will once again be choreographer and Marketing, Grinspoon, Wonderlick the Cabaret dancers, a popular feature of last year’s Entertainment and Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS, the show, will feature some stylish routines. Any enquiries very popular Lasiandra Swing Supper Dance is back can be left for Greta at The Framer (a valued sponsor) by popular demand and will be held on Saturday 18 in Port Macquarie by phoning 6584 0184. See you at February in the Wauchope Showground Hall. the show!

Dance goers will be entertained by 17 piece ‘The Members of the Youth Theatre will be involved with Black Magic Big Band’. Doors open at 6.30pm and a variety of events over the entire festival, including there’s music from 8pm, playing well into the night, appearances at various times over the weekend with Swing dancers coming from as far afield as Coffs of the Country Fair, in the CBD of Wauchope on Harbour. BYO nibbles and drinks/glasses is the format Purple People Shopping Day and at the new event for the night, and a light supper will be provided by on the festival calendar – The Saint Patrick’s Day Wauchope Rotary. Prizes can be won for best dressed Purple Picnic, to be held in Lasiandra Park, Cameron and lucky spots through out the evening.

Street, Wauchope on Saturday 17 March at 5pm. A Funds raised on the night will be donated to the sausage sizzle will be in operation, as well as games Wauchope District Memorial Hospital Palliative and dancing. An enjoyable afternoon for all the Care Unit. Bookings are essential, with family; all are welcome to come along and tickets available to pre-purchase at join in the fun. Pete the Purple Pirate $25 per person by phoning Marie is a new Lasiandra Festival member Some t on 0409 156 333 or 6585 1535. and could turn up anywhere during en fic magni op sh d an Powered sites for this event the festival. Be sure to be on the es um cost ve are available at the Wauchope lookout for Pete and his crew! decorations haov d er been presentech Showground, or book into one The ‘Lasiandra Country Fair’ are the years, whi arking of Wauchope’s two motels or will be held once again at truly worth m a must hotels.

Wauchope Indoor Sports Stadium, as y ar in the di The Lasiandra Cabaret Matinee Cameron Street, on Saturday 10 see for March. will continue on from its successes and Sunday 11 March. A refurbished in 2011, with an afternoon of brilliant stadium will be home to a variety of entertainment assured in the spacious exhibits showcasing a wide variety of Wauchope RSL Club Auditorium on Sunday 4 farming, building and lifestyle industries.

March at 2pm.

Local art and craft will also be on hand, with lots Wauchope Youth Theatre Director, Greta Warner, of value added products available to sample and take said rehearsals are well underway for the second home. Entertainment will be provided over the entire Youth Theatre Cabaret and Variety Show. Last year weekend from the Wauchope Youth Theatre and local the Arts Hall was filled to capacity; hence the move musicians, including local duo ‘Cowboy and the Song to the bigger venue. Seating will be at tables, and the Bird’. Wizzy the Water Drop will be in attendance, management of the RSL assures us full club facilities co-ordinating some fun frisbee throwing. A children’s will be available to those attending. Prices will remain art table will keep the littlies happy. affordable; $10 for adults and $5 for children under Experts in their fields from near and far will 10 – tickets available for pre-purchase at the RSL showcase a wide cross section of industry, products office. and services. You can pat an alpaca, sample yummy Pianist/Music Arranger, Rosanna Vanderley, says foods, look at the Dexter cattle exhibit, purchase 16 greater port macquarie focus.

herbs, native foods and plants and organic seeds.

Informative solar and wind power displays, energy saving products, water tanks, farm produce, outdoor furniture, tools and hardware, plus many information stands, including the local Council Water Wise and Noxious Weeds teams, assure that there will be something of interest for everyone.

Along with displays from the Timbertown Steam Oil & Engine Club, Vintage Car Clubs and kids’ amusements, the Country Fair promises to be a wonderful event for all the family. Come along and enjoy a relaxing and fulfilling day out. The Country Fair is a true community event, organised by the Lasiandra Committee, with involvement from the Beechwood Rural Fire Brigade, Wauchope Apex and Wauchope Rotary, Can Assist, Landcare, Cancer Council, Wauchope Physical Culture Club, Wauchope Youth Theatre and WINC. Any other community group that would like to be involved is more than welcome to contact the organisers.

Gates open 8.30am - 4.30pm both days: Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 March. Entry is $3 per adult; under 12 years admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Hope to see you there!

Thursday 15 will see the Wauchope CBD a hive of activity, with the ever popular Purple People Shopping and Market Day in full swing. Organised by the Wauchope Lasiandra Festival Committee, sidewalk specials from participating businesses, as well as art and craft market stalls, will be in operation from 8am.

Prizes are awarded for best dressed shopper, best staff costume and best window front and premises displays.

Some magnificent costumes and shop decorations have been presented over the years, which are truly worth marking in the diary as a must see for March.

All are invited to come on over to Wauchope on Thursday 15 March – wear your purple best and bag a bargain!

If you require further information or would like to book a site at either the Country Fair or Purple People Shopping and Market Day, feel free to contact Festival Secretary Chrissy on mobile: 0412 137 621. You can visit www.lasiandrafestival.com.au for a full list of festival events and see some fantastic photos from last year’s festival events.

focusinterview.

S T E N L A K E You may recognise him as Oscar Stone from Stingers, or Mike Flynn from Sea Patrol, but Ian Stenlake also has a love and a phenomenal talent for musical theatre, having performed in productions such as Cabaret, Oklahoma! and They’re Playing our Song. Ian brings his fabulous voice to the Glasshouse this month, in a show that’s a tribute to some of the best theatre music ever written.

read a story once, that said kind of discipline is almost like working up acting found you – rather than to run a marathon, and somehow getting the other way around. How did to the end! that happen?

How do you bring out the best in each I’d been accepted into university character you play? to do Commerce/Law, but I still really I try to identify what parts of the didn’t know what I wanted to do in life. I character are within me and therefore are deferred for a year and went backpacking, what I can bring to the role quite easily; and while I was in Rome, I ended up and then, I identify what is really different staying in the same hotel that Francis to me and try to own those parts ... for Ford Coppola’s parents were staying Mike Flynn, the captain of a ship – well, I in – and also a number of actors from hadn’t been captain of anything for a long The Godfather: Part III. Out of a chance time (laughs)! encounter with Franc D’Ambrosio, who For me, it was quite extraordinary to played Al Pacino’s son, I managed to inhabit an authority role, one with a get an invitation to the set, position of rank and needing and I became an extra in to have a voice people will a very big Hollywood listen to. And having an For the very film! ensemble cast as good l I’l e, liv first time ng so I took away from I was working with, it a g in ng si be that experience a was an extraordinary called The River,ten which was writ very clear notion of experience to have ly for me by a real what I wanted to on a daily basis – all om fr y interesting gu d do with the rest of the while knowing it’s lle ca ne Brisba my life! not real!

Martin King.

You’ve had many When did music enter roles, ranging from the scene for you? theatre to television.

I’ve had an interest in music Do you have a preference for all my life; I’m a Preacher’s kid for a either live or television performing? start, so in churches there’s always music.

No, I absolutely love both of them. Even I played piano as a youngster, I learnt the though they require the same foundational trumpet, and I can play the guitar. My very techniques, they’re both very different first acting job, when I came back from disciplines. One is a discipline of 8 shows overseas, was in a musical – and I had a a week doing the same thing, and the go, not knowing if I could sing. challenge with that is making the audience I auditioned as an untrained singer, feel as if your 400th performance is your and I was lucky enough to be chosen. first – and I relish that challenge!

Singing has been part of my acting life Compare that to television, which is since I started, but it certainly kicked into different lines and a different story every gear when I met Rachael Beck (now my single day. The discipline there – especially wife). On my 30th birthday, she gave me across Sea Patrol, where it was a format of 5 singing lessons! Other 30 year olds are working right across the thirteen episodes, probably getting golf sets! rather than sequentially ... there were I know you play golf as well, so I guess two weeks where I was doing perhaps 72 the set of golf clubs would have come scenes in one week and 68 the next; that in handy too?

I

(Laughs). Exactly! I’m still waiting for a set of golf clubs!

So, tell us about the show you’re bringing to the Glasshouse.

I’ll be singing songs from shows I’ve done, from shows like Oklahoma!, Pajama Game, Guys and Doll ... songs like Oh What a Beautiful Morning, Never Been in Love Before. I’ll be telling stories along the way too, about how I got into acting, stories from the jobs that I’ve done – and I’ll also be singing some brand new songs – songs that have never been heard.

In fact, for the very first time live, I’ll be singing a song called The River, which was written for me by a really interesting guy from Brisbane called Martin King. He’s in his sixties and has kind of reinvented himself as a songwriter. He wrote five songs, all brand new, and got Rachael and me to record them. The album’s called The Martin King Project. So the audience in Port Macquarie will be introduced to a completely new song!

Best of luck with the show, Ian – and I hope you’ll have time to squeeze in a round of golf too!

Shamefully, that hadn’t even figured in my thinking (laughs). I think I fly in on a Sunday and I’m back out on the Monday – so not a lot of time. Maybe 9 holes! This will only be my second time ever in Port Macquarie ... so I’m looking forward to having a look around.

Thanks Ian. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

Ian will be appearing at the Glasshouse on Feb 6, at 11am.

Tickets cost $24.50 www.glasshouse.org.au or contact the Box Office on 6581 8888 for more details.

greater port macquarie focus 17

focusinterview.

The Port Macquarie-Hastings area has a rich and varied maritime history, which many of us are unaware of. Have you visited our Maritime Museum recently? Ted Kasehagen, Museum Co-ordinator at the Pilot Cottages Museum, shares a few interesting historical facts with FOCUS readers...

ow did you first become involved with the Maritime Museum?

I’m the Museum Coordinator at the Pilot Cottages Museum in Port Macquarie.

I first became involved with the Maritime Museum when a past President of the Museum asked for volunteers at the Oxley Men’s Probus Club, where we were both members. I have always had an interest in Australia’s history in a general sense, so when I visited the Pilot Cottages Museum for the first time, I soon realised how little I knew about Port Macquarie’s early days. I became a volunteer after that first visit in 2006.

What is the history of the Museum?

Well, the Museum was officially opened in April 1991, and it is situated at the top end of William Street opposite Town Beach.

We also have two other sites, and both are important historically. The Hibbard Boat Yard is situated on Boundary Street, adjacent to the Hibbard Ferry, and dates back to 1884. The Pilot Boat Shed is right near the centre of town. It is located at the western end of Clarence Street, and was moved to this location in 1953. It was built about 120 years ago, and it housed the Pilot’s boat. It originally stood eastwards along the river front, near the Royal Hotel.

How many volunteers are involved?

Across the three Museum locations, we would usually have about 25 to 30 men and women volunteering every week. This does not include the ‘behind the scenes people’, because we have volunteers in our main office, we have research workers, maintenance people, cleaners, and Museum guides. This might seem a lot, but we will always welcome people who would like to contribute their time or skills to help preserve Port’s maritime history. We especially need the holder of a Coxswain’s Certificate for harbours and rivers to help us out!

What are some of the most interesting displays you have at the Museum?

18 greater port macquarie focus.

There are three houses at William Street, but as our name implies, the Museum exhibits and displays are on view in the two oldest surviving cottages that date back to 1892 and were the homes of the Pilots −and the Boatmen who assisted the Pilots.

The first substantial cottage was built at this Pilot Station precinct in 1882. The early Pilots were responsible for bringing sailing ships into Port Macquarie over the dangerous bar at the mouth of the Hastings River, often in stormy conditions, when the winds and strong tides tested the skills and seamanship of these brave men.

So the first room that visitors enter at the Museum is dedicated to Port Macquarie’s Pilots. In the same cottage is the Wreck Room, self-explanatory, but where people can see many relics from ships lost in our waters. There is a model of the paddle-steamer, ‘Ballina’, that was wrecked in the Hastings River in 1878 in the same room and a rocket launcher that was used by Port Macquarie’s Rocket Brigade from about 1860, right up to the late 1920s.

Share an interesting, perhaps surprising story/fact or two with our readers about Port Macquarie's maritime history ...

In 1943, while sailing from Ballina to Sydney, a coastal steamer, the ‘Wollongbar 2’, was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine. The attack occurred just off Crescent Head, north of Port Macquarie. The stricken ‘Wollongbar 2’ caught fire and sunk quickly. The townspeople of Port Macquarie learnt of this disaster when a message was dropped from a Catalina flying boat that had witnessed the sinking. A fishing trawler called the ‘XLCR’ went out to see if any of the ship’s crew could be saved. The local fishermen on the ‘XLCR’ bravely saved five men, not knowing if the submarine was still in the area. Thirty-one other crew members perished.

We have a room in the second cottage dedicated to the loss of the ‘Wollongbar 2’, and many photographs and artefacts are on display there.

An odd coincidence is that the Pilot Cottages

Museum was officially because there were no mobile ... we are always appreciative if an opened 48 years later, phones back then! Children object, photograph, on the anniversary of the ask about the past, so Mum map, or anything that sinking of the ‘Wollongand Dad can show them the has historical value bar 2’! past and enjoy the experiis brought into the For you personally, ence themselves when they Museum. what's the most fascivisit the Maritime Museum. nating thing about mariHow many people visit the time history; what keeps you Museum? The numbers average motivated as a volunteer? out to about 1,800 visitors per year, but I enjoy being involved with the Museum, this does not include all those people who view because of the unexpected. We may receive a the exhibits at the Pilot Boat Shed, or those who phone call saying that a batch of old photographs visit the Hibbard Boat Yard. of boats have been found in a suitcase, and are What are the opening hours & entry costs? we interested in them, or should the caller just We are open 7 days a week at the Pilot Cotthrow them out. Or a visitor will say something tages Museum, from 10am ‘til 4pm. People can like, “Oh, my old uncle was a crew-member on visit the Hibbard Slipway on Wednesdays and that ship. I’ve got a lot of old papers that he left Saturdays from 9am ‘til 2 pm, and the Pilot Boat us with”.

Shed is open Monday to Saturday, from 10amAny information that can be researched can 2pm. add to the records of past times, and we are alDoes the museum hold special events? ways appreciative if an object, photograph, map, We have a film afternoon every couple of or anything that has historical value is brought months to which the general public are invited. into the Museum. Some parts of our history can We also stage Trivia afternoons-all are welcome. be lost in a generation.

During Heritage Week in April, we’ll be officially opening our Oyster Farming display.

Why do you think it's important for the comWhere can the public find out more info munity to have access to our maritime hisabout the museum? Phone us on 6583 1866 tory? When groups of schoolchildren visit us, our or log on to www.52things2do.com.au Tour Guides have to explain that our Pilots had Thanks Ted. nothing to do with aeroplanes, and that Pilots Interview by Jo Atkins. and Boatmen communicated with signal flags,

focusinterview.

Original and one-of-a-kind, we meet David Miles from Funky Journals, who uses old, discarded books to create imaginative and memorable journals for people of all ages and backgrounds to record life’s journey. ell us about your Funky Journals product range. How did you come up with the idea to turn this into a business venture?

A Funky Journal is a new journal made from discarded books you see in every Op shop. I add 100 - 120 pages of writing and/ or drawing paper and to please my wife, who is also an avid journaler, a sturdy front pocket to keep things you collect.

The real difference in a Funky Journal is that you will find, in most cases, the whole of the story from the discarded book throughout the Journal.

About 3 years ago, I saw a similar item in an art gallery, which has always been in the back of my mind as a great idea for a journal. Being a keeper of journals myself, I always looked out for journals that caught my imagination and helped inspire the thoughts and memories of my life as I put them to paper.

So about 4 months ago, I decided to give it a go. I have been totally amazed at the response and now attend markets in Port, Coffs and Bellingen most weekends Where do you get the inspiration for many of your hand-made pieces?

The inspiration comes on many levels. Firstly, in such a throw away society, we discard millions of books every year – and this is my way of upcycling a product in a useful and imaginative way.

Secondly, when choosing the books I am going to make into a journal, I imagine the types of people of all ages and backgrounds using my product to record their life’s journey.

Describe some of your designs; what makes them different and unique?

The books I use are as varied as the people who purchase them. Little Golden

Books make great journals, as they can fit into your bag as you travel – and for many people evoke memories of their own childhood. If I had a dollar for every time I hear: “I had that book when I was a child”, I would be very well off.

The classics like Alice in Wonderland, Snow White and The Little Mermaid are always very popular.

For the boys, Superman, Batman – in fact, any Super Hero, are also snapped up very quickly.

now know me and have started to put books they think will be great journals aside for me.

Original and personalised, why else do you think Funky Journals are so popular?

I think one of the things that have made Funky Journals so popular is that the books I use are an emotional connection to your childhood, and when you see a book you had as a child and have completely forgotten about, it gives you The books from the ‘50s, permission to own it again as ‘60s and ‘70s show a way a journal. Many parents of life that in many also want to pass that ways was much less memory onto their complicated, and own children.

I s ok The bo people from that For others, having ed ri va as e use ar ho w le generation seem a product that is op pe e th as to have forgotten upcycled, unique purchase them. what it was like and not mass when they were produced is very growing up. These popular. journals hit a real chord They make fantastic for them. presents for all ages and Finally, I have started to do show the recipient that some Personalised Journals, either for individuthought has gone into the gift. als or as presents. They either choose a What do you enjoy about attending book, some of which even have the year the wonderful Foreshore Market each of their birth on the front cover, or ask month? me to source a book that reminds them The Foreshore Markets are just fanof a certain time of their life. tastic. The setting along the water on a To this I can add photos, horoscopes, fine day is beautiful, and the range and lyrics from that favourite song – anything diversity of products is as good as any in fact, that can be inserted into the market I have attended. I hope to see you journal. at the next market in February.

Where do you source many of the Thanks David. materials for your range, and what are some of your favourites to work the plug! with?

All the books I use come from Op For more information, please Shops both up and down the Mid North email David Miles, at Coast. This is an eternal spring of matefunkyjournals@gmail.com.au rial to use, and many of the ladies and or on 0421 559 808. gentlemen who volunteer in these shops greater port macquarie focus 19

The Camden Haven Music Festival

focuseditorial.

The Spirit of Music “Without music, life would be an error,” wrote the German philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche.

G

ood music is a precious gift which enriches our lives, believes the committee of Camden Haven Music.

Formerly Camden Haven Music Festival Inc, the organisation has undergone a slight name change and a re-focus of its activities.

Instead of the marathon 10-day music festival of the past 16 years, a three-times-a-year program has been devised to coincide with special national, international or local events or milestones.

“In past years, concert-goers have been limited, due to time and financial constraints, to the number of events they can afford to attend,” explains Vice President and patron, Dr Gavin Rippon. “By spreading the program throughout the year, we believe more people will have the ability to attend and enjoy more events. By consolidating the program into smaller bites, our usual broad spectrum of musical styles can be better aligned to complement each other, better meet audience expectation and appeal to an even wider audience than we’ve attracted in the past,” he added.

In the Autumn program, to run over 2 to 4 and 9 to 11 March, Camden Haven Music has

20 greater port macquarie focus.

chosen International Women’s Day on 8 March to highlight the contribution made to Australian music enjoyment by women, as composers and performers. There will be premiered works

by Australian female composers such as Elena Kats Chernin, as well as favourites from the past. Well By spreading known and loved performers e th program the such as pianist Tamara Anna throughout ie ve Cislowska and The Seven Harp year, we belle w ill p eo p more Ensemble will be alongside to ty ili have the abenjoy emerging musicians, including d an d n atte French-Australian saxophonist and is being presented more events.

Katia Beaugeais and the flute, in partnership with the clarinet and piano ensemble,Trois.

Camden Haven Chamber of For the baby boomers, a great show Commerce. paying tribute to Honky-Tonk legend Winifred An important alliance with the Atwell will bring the memories flooding back of Sydney International Piano Competition will see the days of her top ten hits and her live shows to Camden Haven Music hosting a performance by over 30 million people around the world. the Competition Winner of the People’s Choice Towards the end of May, there will be a Award on 2 September. “This will lead into our percussion feast with an equally exciting list of spring program in October, at which Jonathon attractions, including Claire Edwardes, William Welch and Sally Whitwell will run choral Barton, Anthony Garcia and the Rhythm Hunters, workshops for children from the region’s small as well as a visually spectacular show, Crystal schools, those with fewer than 100 students” Mallets, by Nick Parnell. This will lead into the explained Program Director Alvena Ferguson. food and wine festival Slice of Haven on 27 May “The balance of our October program

Pictured Sydney Piano4tet

will target children’s involvement in music, which research shows improves kids’ physical, academic and social development. We seem to be surrounded by music on a daily basis, but we believe the best way to experience it is to hear it performed live and to share that experience with fellow music lovers. So come and bring your friends, for a wonderful celebration of good music in March,” she added.

To find out all the details about the March program, go to www.chm.org.au or pick up a brochure from libraries and visitor centres.

For enquiries about the program and tickets contact Alvena Ferguson on 0401 608 240 or email chm@tsn.cc

focusonbusiness.

HQ Port opens its doors A dazzling array of Port Macquarie business identities and innovators gathered at Port Macquarie’s HQ Port Function Rooms for the opening of HQ Port on a beautiful January evening. uests were entertained by a multi-award winning line up of performers, including the 3 waiters, an ‘undercover’ operatic performance, which has twice been voted corporate act of the year, and the magic of Jay the Illusionist. Both performers were entertaining for the first time in Port Macquarie.

G HQ provides ent event managem ns tio la re ic bl pu d an g services, offerin e th es ni pa m co benefit of expert d management an e advice to facilitatts. wonderful even

At the sounds of opera resonating from the top floor balcony overlooking the pier, many passers by gazed skyward to see what was happening in Clarence Street, as guests above dined on canapés and drinks from the exclusive HQ Menu.

Clients utilising HQ Port take advantage of a complete range of business support services, including furnished office space, high speed

broadband, video conferencing, dedicated receptionist, concierge service, travel agent, driver, mail handling, photocopying, binding, courier services, secretarial services, fully catered conference, function and meeting facilities.

HQ offers great flexibility in set up and operations, with no confusing lease agreements, low start up costs, no costly overheads and no time consuming formalities.

In addition, HQ provides event management and public relations services, offering companies the benefit of expert management and advice to facilitate wonderful events.

“Given the current financial climate, many companies are reluctant to commit to long term office space in favour of the more economical and hassle free option of renting serviced offices, and we were happy to be able to showcase our facilities to the Greater Port Macquarie Business Community,” according to Emma McWilliams, Business Manager of HQ Port.

greater port macquarie focus 21

Scholarship Winner returns for Kendall Concert The lady & her music returns

Former Wauchope pianist, Leonie Thompson, winner of the Clare Foster Memorial Scholarship in 2008, will return this month to give a recital in Kendall for the Camden Haven Arts Council.

The legendary film and theatre music star and two-time Grammy Award winner, Petula Clark, returns for an Australian Tour in March 2012, proudly presented by ATA AllStar Artists. Her career has been extraordinary and outstanding and has spanned over 65 years, with more gold albums to her credit than any other British artist.

Leonie has been studying piano performance with Dr. Anna Goldsworthy at the University of Melbourne and last year completed her Bachelor of Music. She also attained her Licentiate diploma and was recently awarded the Doris Chandler Bursary for excellence in piano performance.

Originally from Wauchope, Leonie achieved her Associate Diploma studying with Frank Taranto, and won many championships and scholarships in the Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Taree Eisteddfods.

This year, Leonie will continue into an Honours year in piano performance under the guidance of Prof. Ronald Farren-Price. Future plans include post-graduate studies in Europe.

Leonie will be joined in her concert by Nick Slaney, who began his piano studies after initially wanting to learn the electric guitar.

A fellow student of renowned pianist Dr Goldsworthy, Nick was selected for the University’s exchange program and studied with Kuang-Hao Huang at the Chicago College of Performing Arts last year. In addition to his passion for the solo repertoire, Nick enjoys

playing Chamber Music and accompanying Lieder and plans to continue graduate study in Germany in 2014. Nick has performed solo recitals across Australia and the US after receiving numerous prizes in various Eisteddfods and competitions.

Their concert, on Sunday, February 26, commences at 3.30pm. Tickets are $15 (Arts Council members), $20 adults and $10 children.

Doors to Kendall School of Arts Hall will open at 3pm for ticket sales. The historic Hall has wonderful acoustics and is found at Comboyne Street in Kendall. Drinks and refreshments will follow the concert.

Leonie’s and Nick’s concert will please lovers of the traditional classical repertoire, including Bach, Chopin, Ravel, Liszt, van Beethoven and Prokoviev.

She has sold in excess of 68 million records throughout her career, and is one of In 1998 she the most sought-after as honoured by w recording artists and eth Queen Elizabad ea m g in concert personalities in the Chaplin) and many others.

II, by be the of r de an m om world today. She started C he is in constant demand sh Order of the Briti her professional career with lead roles in major Empire. as an entertainer on BBC theatrical productions such Radio, made her film debut as Sound Of Music, Blood in the Maurice Elvey-directed Brothers and Sunset Boulevard. comedy, Medal For The General in In 1998 she was honoured by Queen 1944 and went on to become internationally Elizabeth II, by being made a Commander known for her popular upbeat hits, which of the Order of the British Empire. The included Downtown, I Know A Place, My Australian tour entitled The Lady, Her Music Love, Colour My World, A Sign Of The returns – PETULA CLARK – Once More With Times, Don’t Sleep In The Subway, This Is My Love Tickets On-Sale Date: Monday 21 Song (written for her by the great Charles November 2011.

Encore

22 greater port macquarie focus.

Video

2:24

OF THE

MONTH

focusupdate.

your

say.

Last Month.

Who serves your favourite fish and chips in Greater Port Macquarie?

48%

Off the Hook

12% Flynn’s Beach Takeaway

10% Kwik Snax Takeaway

9% Mikes Seafood

This Month.

VIDEO BY: Focus TV ABOUT: Andrew Richmond takes the a BMW Z4 out for a test drive in Port Macquarie for FocusTV,

Who serves your favourite pizza in Greater Port Macquarie?

Total 93 votes.

vote online at www.facebook.com/focus.mag?sk=questions

www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhlxjR_xSz4 or seach ch

14% Other

Please note: This is not a scientific poll. The results reflect only the opinions of those who chose to participate. Numbers might not add to 100 due to rounding.

thanks to McGuigan BMW. WATCH AT:

8% Macquarie Seafoods

: BMW Z4 Test Drive - FocusTV

LOCAL

READ Local Author. Brian Curtain.

Title. One Plus One Makes One.

No sooner had they kissed for the first time, when tragedy strikes – and the girl’s hopes and dreams of becoming a ballet dancer are dashed, when both her legs are badly broken in an accident. The girl is convinced it is a bad omen, and the boy blames himself.

Price $5.95 (eBook). www.devinedestinies.com/one-plus-one-makes-one-2 Let us help promote your local book or music album.

Send us the details to editor@focusmag.com.au

Image of the month.

This almost unreal shot of Town Beach was one of over 100 attempts to catch the perfect shot, and we think you nailed it, Thomas. Fantastic!

Photo by: Thomas Brown. Facebook Page: Out of Focus Productions.

W H AT ’S I N

season.

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email editor@focusmag.com.au

focusreview.

with Julie from www.gourmetgetaways.com.au

LYCHEE Th first TThe rst llychee ych h trees were brought to northern Queensland Queensla l nd in in the 1870s 1870 18 70ss by Chinese immigrants – many of whom became ma ark rket et gardeners gar g ard d market supplying the local gold mining towns.

TTh ere are 400 40 lychee trees on the Knoblock farm at Boambee, There just south th of Coffs Harbour, which is one of the country’s mo ost southern southe lychee farms, supplying quality fruit to the most Me elb l ou o rne, Sydney, Brisbane and local market.

Melbourne, Seven Se e lychee ee (one serve) contain as much vitamin C as a lychees ssmall smal sm ma l orange, orangee have high antioxidant levels and are fat-free.

Ch hoo oose see ffr ruit i with skin that is pink or red – once picked, the Choose fruit lych ly chee ch ee does d doe oees not continue to ripen. Keep in a refrigerator for o lychee five fi o seven seve se veen days or at room temperature for two or three ve tto days da ys. ys days.

Ly Lych chee ch eess are ee a e best ar b eaten fresh – just peel the thin, red skin and Lychees enjo en joy! y!! Or, Or, they th can be pitted and added to fruit salads or used enjoy! in ssweet weet we ett aand nd sour dishes and summer salads. They make a tast styy accompaniment acco ac com co mp tasty to pork and duck.

WHERE

Boambee lychees are at their peak during February, and they’re available at Ken Littles Fruit & Veg in Munster St, Port Macquarie.

local dr p.

Longpoint Vineyard Duet 2007.

This wine takes its name from the perfect partnering of the Chambourcin and Cabernet grape. The Cabernet lends the wine depth, complexity and a full flavour; the Chambourcin lightens the finish and allows the fresh, crisp notes of that grape to shine through. Perfect for this hot humid weather, it is the wine to enjoy during the summer’s evening.

GOES WITH: I would partner this wine with an antipasto platter or spicy food.

COST: $22.

AVAILABLE: At the cellar door, 6 Cooinda Place, Lake Cathie.

Phone: (02) 6585 4598 or online at www.longpointvineyard.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 23

www.customercareprogram.com.au

NO SMALL ACHIEVEMENT Four local customer care endorsed businesses tell us about recent changes or improvements they have made to their business in the pursuit of providing excellence in customer service. Recognising the obstacle and challenges and then finding a suitable solution to help their customers is no small achievement.

So, we congratulate them on their efforts and showcase them to you here.

REMONDIS PTY LTD OBSTACLE: To increase market share with h our our compost sales within a 300 km m radius rad adius and our commercial waste collection llectio on services within the Port Macquarie uarie area.

CHALLENGE: Our challenge was to produce e the best quality compost in accordance rdanc ce to Australian Standards AS 4454 454 and within our commercial waste aste ast collection services, to give good, od, old fashioned personal service att an affordable price.

SOLUTION: Educating our customers about ut the benefits of using REMONDIS for their compost or waste management gemen gem ent solutions needs. It’s all about protecting the environment, and nd our customers understand that.

www.remondis.com.au

PETSTOCK PORT MACQUARIE OBSTACLE: Being a brand new, locally owned and operated per erated busin business iness to the area and finding our position within n the th he community. commun unity.

CHALLENGE: Letting our customers and the community ty kno know ow that at PETstock Port Macquarie is a locally owned ned an and operated business whose goal is to caterr for a wide range of pet needs, while providing good,, old ffashioned ash ashione h ned customer service.

SOLUTION: We have made a commitment to continually ly y liste listen e to our customers’ needs and adapt and change han ha nge where necessary to meet these needs. We e ta take ake hip ps pride in having strong customer relationships and treating our customers, and their pets,, as part of the family. As an organisation, we e regularly support community initiatives such ch as s Relay for Life, the Wauchope Show, the Koala ala Hospital, Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club, among others. We also aim to go ‘above ove and beyond’ with each of our customers – by providing expert advice and the best in products and services, right through to carrying our customers’ goods to their car. r.

www.petstock.com.au

XS FOOD

COMPASS FINANCIAL C AL MANAGEMENT

OBSTACLE:

OBSTACLE:

Having permanent premises with accessibility ccessib bility for our suppliers and customers and nd enabli enabling ing n the provision of consistently high end p product roduct an and nd service.

CHALLENGE: Finding the right location with the required eq quired facilities for food preparation, storage ge and accessibility for our customers, suppliers ppliers and work placement students.

SOLUTION: In July 2011, we purchased Christina’s a’s Patisserie, located in the industrial area area. ea.

This wholesale patisserie business complemented a part of our catering ng business and provided the facilities s and location required to meet our needs. s.

www.xsfood.com.au

COMPASS is committed to exceeding our Customer Care Award achievements, especially since being inducted into the ‘Customer Care Hall of Fame’.

However, the GFC has been our major obstacle: whilst it was beyond our control, it has caused some customers uncertainty about their retirement plans … and a level of emotional pain.

CHALLENGE: With our ongoing service commitment, COMPASS strive to be best in the delivery of quality advice and excellence in service. With the GFC, the challenges we face as our clients’ professional advisors is to be proactive and communicate transparently and effectively on alternative strategies and solutions.

SOLUTION: Our fantastic staff embraced Customer Care as their business culture, and they continue driving the Customer Care standards at COMPASS. We regularly seek feedback through independent surveys of customers to enhance our service standards. As advisors, we aspire to maintaining excellence in advice and being available for our valued clients.

www.compassadvice.com.au 24 greater port macquarie focus.

The first round of mystery shopping revealed fourteen top performers, all of whom performed exceptionally well.

Last month the Customer Care Program’s Mystery Shopping top 14 performing businesses were announced. To refresh your memory, these businesses are: The Observatory Hotel; World Par-Tea; The Roving Trainer; St Agnes Early Education Centre; Ryan Financial; Port Macquarie-Hastings Library Services; J R Richards & Sons; Mid North Coast Inclusion Support Agency; Olive Communications; Hastings Family Day Care; Hastings Co-op – Head Office; Hot Graphics; Digital Signs and Printing and C & W Security Doors.

To date eight of these top performing businesses have been showcased and, as promised, this month we showcase the next two. Congratulations!

These top organisations will continue to be promoted throughout the next 4 months, together with other premium local Customer Care members.

PMH LIBRARY SERVICES Number of Years in Business: 60 years.

Number of Employees: 20 staff over our three branches.

What services or products does your business supply? We lend books, CDs, DVDs, eBooks and magazines. es.

We provide a community space for or et meetings, exhibitions and internet ograms access. We provide a range of programs and services, from baby bounce th through online tutoring to housebound delivery. ellive iv ry.

HASTINGS FAMILY DAY CARE

see the library as a community hub and strive to meet the diverse needs of all our customers. We are a cradle to the grave service. Our Bookstart program provides all newborn babies in Port Macqurie with a free book, and our Home Library Services S ervices provide books to nursing homes ho omes throughout the area. If you haven’t tried tri ied us recently, you don’t know what are you u ar e missing.

www.hastings.nsw.gov.au

Why did you decide to join the ee Customer Care program? We see ourselves as a customer focused d service and see the program as a way of measuring how well we are performing rming and what we can do better.

As top performer in the mysteryy g yyour shop, how did you feel receiving results? It is always gratifying forr sstaff taff

Number of Years in Business: 34 years.

Number of Employees: 5 staff within the

HFDC. It has reaffirmed the professionalism and dedication of all staff involved.

Coordination Unit, plus 55 Home Based Early Education & Care Educators.

How will you be using the mystery shopping reports as a tool to identify training needs for your staff in order to service your customers better?

What services or products does your business supply? Hastings Family Day Care (HFDC) provides two unique, yet integrated, services.

Our first focus is to provide education and care for children 0 – 13 years of age in the homes of trained and skilled Educators.

HFDC offers flexible hours of care on a fullttime, part-time and casual basis, including overnight and weekends in most cases. Our second focus is the recruitment, training s and business development of Home a Based Family Day Care Educators. HFDC is integrated within St Joseph’s Family Services and also provides families with S access to a broad range of parent support a ort activities. a

Customer Care will continue as a priority for HFDC. We are committed to continue providing a valuable service to families of the Hastings.

What is your customer service philosophy?

HFDC is committed to providing families with an extraordinary service. Our goal is to ensure each interaction, internal and external, is a positive one.

We definitely support and recommend the Customer Care Program.

www.stagnesparish.org.au/sjfs/

W did you decide to join the Customer Why mer Care program? We joined the Customer

to have all their hard work recognised. nised. d

How will you be using the mystery ery shopping reports as a tool to identify dentify training needs for your staff in order to service your customers better? ?

Care program in June 2009 with the aim off up skilling all staff in the Coordination Units nitts a and Family Day Care Educators in the area ea a of customer service.

We have reports on all three libraries ries and a couple of areas of concern were identified at the smaller branches. s.

We also need to reiterate to staff that providing good customer service e is is an a ongoing commitment.

W What benefits has it given you so ffar? The training we have received has reinforced the importance of continuous reflection on processes and procedures in relation to customer care.

What is your customer service philosophy?

As top performer in the mystery shop, A how did you feel receiving your results? s?

We are a free service available to a all. ll. We

To be recognised as a top performer in T customer care is an excellent result for

CUSTOMER CARE ENDORSED ORGANISATIONS. Alison Spice Technical Services All About Planning Pty Ltd Animal Doctors BALA Vending Bay Street Brasserie, Port Panthers Beachside Medi Spa Beantree Café Bendigo Bank – Port Macquarie Broadway Shoes C & W Security Doors Care & Mobility Cassegrain Wines - Cellar Door Childish Photography COMPASS financial management Culinare @ Modishe Cullens Carpet One & Blinds De Novo Creations Digital Signs and Printing Direct Advisers East Coast Locksmiths East Port Veterinary Hospital Emergency ID Australia Enriched Health Ezy Video Service GPM FOCUS

JOIN THE PROGRAM

Gillespie Media P/L Glasshouse Glasshouse Hair & Beauty Grahams Mechanical Repairs Hastings Co-Op Head Office Hire Port Historical Huntingdon House B & B Holiday Coast Credit Union Ltd Hot Graphics In Phase Productions J R Richards & Sons Jons Family Jewellers Learning Insight Life Express Fitness Centre Joeys House Occassional Care Centre Macquarie Waters Boutique Apartment Hotel Maharaja Indian Restaurant Majestic Cinemas Men at Work Mercure Centro Hotel Mid North Coast NSW Business Chamber Modishe Espresso Moisture Cure Pty Ltd Mount Seaview Natural Springwater

Near River Produce Night Owl Painting Olive Communications Oxley Hwy Veterinary Hospital Oxley Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd Party Professionals Pty Ltd PC Pitstop Lake Cathie PC Pitstop Port Macquarie Petstock Port Macquarie PMHC - Customer Service Unit -PMQ PMHC - Customer Service Unit, Laurieton PMHC - Customer Service Unit, Wauchope PMHC - Water Supply Port Badges and Engraving Port Macquarie Day Spa Port Macquarie Golf Club Ltd Port Macquarie Growers Market Port Macquarie Panthers Port Fresh Seafoods Port Macquarie Trophies PMHC Library Services -PMQ PMHCLibrary Services - Laurieton PMHC Library Services - Wauchope Port’s Mister Whippy

Remondis Pty Ltd Restaurant Synergy, Mercure Hotel Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries Rose’s Vineyard at Innes View Rosewood Environmental Services RSPCA NSW (Port Macquarie Adoption Centre) Ryan Financial Rydges Port Macquarie Sara’s Kitchen Sea Acres Rainforest Centre Seabird Swimwear (Soft Edges P/L) Sensory SMART OT Spoilt Diva St. Agnes Early Education Centre St Joseph’s Family Services (SJFS) Business Services Family Links Program Hastings Family Day Care (HFDC) Mid North Coast Inclusion Support Agency St Joseph’s Preschool and Long Day Care Stihl Shop Port Macquarie Telegraph Retreat B & B Guest House The Corner Restaurant

The Little Brewing Company The Observatory Hotel The Other Chef Fine Foods The Rainforest Café The Roving Trainer The Restaurant at Cassegrain Tile Rescue Port Macquarie Touchwood Flowers Trademark Building Supplies Travelworld Wauchope Vast Interior Verde Bamboo Victoria’s Costume Hire, Model Agency & Personal Styling Wendy’s – Port Central Willing & Able Foundation World Par-Tea Wyndham Resort XS Food XYZ Support Zebu, Rydges

If you would like to enquire about becoming part of the Customer Care Program or if your organisation was previously an endorsed member of the Customer Care Program and you have not expressed your interest to continue with the new and improved membership, please contact Rachel Ross on 6581 8036 or email rachel.ross@pmhc.nsw.gov.au to reap the benefits. greater port macquarie focus 25

Greater Port Macquarie

Cover Dish Hervey Bay Scallops with Sweet Sake Glaze and Fried Nori from Relish by the River.

eat. Dining Guide is now available on the App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 26 greater port macquarie focus.

eat.

Free-range local pork belly braised in crushed apple cider with maple apple crisps.

Orange chocolate slice with vanilla and chocolate ice cream and a passionfruit curd.

Relish by the River

Ocean Breeze Café & Catering

With friendly staff and great views of the Camden Haven River, Relish offers a complete dining experience.

Try the Relish fish plate, with a selection of fresh local fish, or a juicy eye fillet steak, all washed down with a locally brewed beer.

With an extensive contemporary menu and daily specials showcasing seasonal produce, there is always something new and delicious to try at Relish.

Now fully licensed.

Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, lunch or coffee and a sweet treat, the Ocean Breeze Café has something for everyone.

Our delicious menu includes modern dishes with local produce, fresh seafood, prime cut steaks and home-made cakes and desserts.

Having a function? We can customise a package to suit your needs, including gluten-free and other dietary requirements.

Kylie and the Ocean Breeze team cater for all special occasions, so come in for a cuppa and a chat today.

Anna Jurs & Joel Van Bussel

613 Ocean Drive, North Haven t 6559 8869 e relishbytheriver@live.com.au

Inside Port City Bowling Club 4 Owen Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 1133

open Lunch & dinner, Wed - Sat. Sunday - lunch only.

open Menu available from 9am - 8pm daily.

Cake and coffee served all day.

Tapas platter for two

Rich chocolate tartlet with cointreau strawberries, praline ice cream & Persian chocolate fairy floss

Watermans Café Roses are red, Violets are blue.

We are open for Valentine’s dinner; Book a table for two.

Check out our tapas platter for two! Enjoy Friday and Saturday nights at Watermans, a favourite with the locals, and see what all the fuss is about. Come and see the new look menus and taste all new flavours. Don’t forget our vast retail selection of jams, relishes, mueslis, biscuits, tea and coffee.

The perfect gift for someone special!

56 High Street, Wauchope t 6586 4242 open Monday - Thursday, 8am - 4pm and Friday & Saturdays, 8am - 9pm.

Chefs Jodi, Rachael and Owner Kylie.

Zebu bar + grill Got the love bug? Treat your true love to a night for two at Zebu Bar + Grill.

Enjoy our handcrafted Valentine’s menu, including a his and hers cocktail on arrival, a reduced à la carte entrée, main and dessert, topped off with a stunning rose for your Valentine. $85pp - bookings essential.

Owners Ren & Farrah

If you prefer something more relaxed, pop into our bar and enjoy contemporary coastal dining at its best.

Ben Holloway Chef.

Breakfast - Coffee - Cocktails - 10 Tap Beers Wood Fire Pizzas - Steaks - Seafood - Purveyors of Peak Coffee

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie t 6589 2822 w www.zebu.com.au open 7 days, from 6.30am - late.

Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended. greater port macquarie focus 27

eat.

King Prawn and avocado Panang Curry: a thick, mild curry with Kaffir Lime leaves.

Thara Thai Restaurant

Scampis Seafood Bar & Grill

Authentic, traditional Thai cuisine done in a modern and extraordinary way!

All dishes are homemade using only the freshest local ingredients.

The restaurant’s ambience is relaxed, and the service is professional.

Tasty soups, salads and appetizers begin your dining experience and tempt your taste buds. Your meal will prove to be an explosion of flavour, by combining the five fundamental flavours of true Thai cuisine: hot (spicy), sour, sweet, salty and bitter.

Taste the waterfront! This Valentine’s Day, book a table for two and spoil that special someone with mouthwatering cuisine and amazing ocean views. Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week and breakfast Saturday and Sunday mornings.

B.Y.O. and Home Delivery available. ($5 Wauchope area only – Minimum order $30).

Head Chef Thara Watson.

• Daily board specials • Bar facilities • Takeaway available • Indoor/outdoor dining

Owners Mark and Jackie Holt

Bookings requested for dinner time and during the holiday period.

40 William Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 7200

Shop 1, Timbertown Shopping Village, Oxley Highway Wauchope ( Opp. Timbertown ) t 65 86 1029 open Lunch 11.30am - 2pm Wednesdays to Sunday.

Dinner 5pm - 9pm Tuesday to Sunday.

open Breakfast from 7.30am Saturday/Sunday Lunch from 12pm Dinner from 5pm - 7 days

Off the Hook

Aqua Café

Off the Hook is owned and operated by Paul and Narelle Walsh and employs thirteen staff. We offer a great variety of choice: tasty old style hamburgers, snacks, salads and of course, fish and chips. We have added a larger selection of fish to our menu, including our favourite, the Flathead fillets. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after 4pm are our extra special nights; pay just $9.90 for two fillets of fish and chips. We also have a compete selection of Coca-Cola beverages to quench your thirst, including the popular Goulburn Valley milk and juice ranges.

Aqua Restaurant – love food, love Aqua!

Wine and dine your loved one in Aqua on Valentine’s Day by reserving a window table on the night, to ensure you have uninterrupted views of the beautiful Hastings River and Pelican Island. Aqua’s scrumptious menu offers a variety of restaurant influenced dishes, including the 1824 Viking cutlet and honey soy duck Maryland.

Membership of The Westport Club costs only $12 per year, and all meals have discounted pricing for members.

The friendly staff.

Head Chef Nikolai Byczkov.

There’s nothing better than a meal by the edge of the beautiful Hastings River.

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green. t 6584 1146 open 7 days, from 11am - late EFTPOS available, phone orders welcome.

28 greater port macquarie focus.

Aqua Restaurant - The Westport Club Buller Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 1499 Aqua Café: opened daily from 8.30am ‘til late.

Aqua Restaurant: opened daily: lunch 11am to 2.30pm / dinner 5pm to 8.30pm.

The Cheesecake Shop The Temptations Range offers the perfect single serve dessert when you need to impress your guests.

Our signature range of continental cheesecake filled éclairs and profiteroles are a must have for any occasion.

The Temptations Range is sure to get your heart racing – perfect for Valentine’s Day! Along with our range of cheesecakes, mudcakes and tortes, The Cheesecake Shop has you covered.

Don’t forget all our cakes are made on premises and made with love!

Owner Robbie & Manager Kerrie-ann.

11/4 Bay Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 7811 open Monday - Saturday, 9am - 6pm & Sundays, 10am - 4pm.

Crema Espresso Bar What better way to start the day than with a cup of your favourite coffee, paired with a delicious free-range smashed egg wrap or hand-cut raisin toast?

Crema Espresso Bar has a selection of iced frappes and smoothies, fresh wraps, sandwiches, salads and a variety of sweet treats fresh daily.

Come and try our home-made gelato this summer! Our gelato bar is open until 9pm Thursday to Saturday.

Ask about our coffee beans – available for home and offices, ground on demand. Home of Namaste Chai.

Owner Greg Cacace.

Corner of Horton and Clarence St, Port Macquarie t 6583 9858 open breakfast and lunch.

Gelato Bar- open til 9pm Thurs-Sat greater port macquarie focus 29

focusinterview.

G O W

The Corner.

K Y L E

he whole team at The Corner congratulates Kyle on finishing his apprenticeship! Kyle started with great enthusiasm and passion for cooking. Very quickly he displayed unique creativity and true passion to become an excellent chef. Over three years Kyle has matured to understand how to perfect fresh, seasonal contemporary Australian dishes. The whole team have greatly enjoyed working with Kyle, being part of his journey to qualify as a chef and wish him all the very best for his future.

You’ve now been employed at The Corner since the start of your apprenticeship.

From the Tell us about the journey beginning, I haveinute over the last 3 years. enjoyed every minually I was thrilled to be of it! I have cont and been challenged ith chosen to receive my enjoy working w food. Eventually, I would training through The such a great team love to use my knowledge Corner Restaurant. From around me. of different food and cooking the beginning, I have styles and travel around enjoyed every minute of it! I Australia and the world. have continually been challenged What have you enjoyed most about and enjoy working with such a great your job at The Corner restaurant? team around me. TAFE gives you the building I have enjoyed most of all forming some blocks to put into practice in the kitchen what great friendships, learning about local suppliers you learn in the classroom. It has been a great and produce and being part of a team who are journey! passionate and dedicated to producing great What inspired you to pursue a career as a food. chef?

Kyle, what have been the highlights From working as a casual kitchen hand at for you over the 3 years of your a local restaurant in my teens with my older apprenticeship? brother and friend, I developed a desire to My final TAFE assessment was to design explore the industry further – and knew an an alternate drop dinner consisting of entrée, apprenticeship was the best way for me to do main and dessert for approximately 50 people. this.

Part of this assessment included co-ordinating Now that you’ve finished your other students in the kitchen to get each dish apprenticeship, what would you like to do out in a timely manner and to ensure each dish with the skills and knowledge you have showcased the high standard I had become gained? accustomed to. It was both challenging and As I have developed skills working for an à great fun to put into practice the things I had la carte restaurant, I would like to gain some learnt at TAFE and on the job at The Corner. experience in different styles of cooking and 30 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

We meet the Head Chef at the popular TG’s, Cheryl Pavey.

T

ell us about your 2011 AHA Chef of the background Year. in the My main lovear Tell us about the new hospitality ch is working thein menu at the Town industry. What inspired e th g grill and cook I also Green Inn. What you to become a chef? k. ea perfect st g in ak m y will be some of the I’ve worked in the jo en ly real nds favourites? hospitality industry desserts of all ki y the and always enjogar/ We will have a TG’s for over ten years. I challenge of su signature dish as part of was originally drawn to toffee work. our new menu. We are also the energy and dynamic changing our lunch specials, environment in a commercial to offer our customers more variety. kitchen. I love a busy service!

Our new menu is being structured around the What are some of your favourite use of fresh, local produce. ingredients to cook with, and why?

How do you cater for events and functions My main love is working the char grill and at the Town Green Inn? cooking the perfect steak. I also really enjoy New function packages now include a variety making desserts of all kinds and always enjoy of canape platters, as well as sit down menus the challenge of sugar/toffee work. and drinks packages. We also have the Rafters What is unique about dining at the Town Room upstairs available for functions, weddings Green Inn? and private hire.

Our famous wood-fired pizzas. Our craft What will locals love about dining at the beer range, including the locally brewed, award Town Green Inn? winning Wicked Elf Pale Ale. And of course, Locals will love our open plan restaurant, our wonderful staff. with views of the Town Green and Hastings What have been some of your recent River. TG’s casual, relaxed atmosphere and achievements as a chef? friendly staff will ensure you enjoy your dining My most recent achievement was being experience. named as a Top Ten Finalist for the NSW greater port macquarie focus 31

Camden Haven Music Inc

focuseditorial.

The Spirit of Music “What a magnificent concert”...“Looked wonderful ... seven majestic harps” ...“Excellent playing, effortless virtuosity”... “Difficult to imagine a more delightful musical evening” …

T

hese are just some of the accolades heaped on The Seven Harp Ensemble (SHE) by concertgoers.

Under the direction of international harp soloist, Alice Giles, this exciting and enchanting ensemble is committed to encouraging new repertoire, as well as performing arrangements of popular classics.

SHE performances include national and international music festivals, ABC Classic FM Sunday Live, state and national tours and recording Australian commissions for the Tall Poppies label.

SHE programs are varied and reflect the distinctive techniques unique to the harp. A Seven Harp Ensemble concert is an aural and visual feast both as a ‘crowd-pleaser’ and for serious music lovers. Formerly known as the Kioloa Harp Ensemble, SHE was founded during the Kioloa Summer Harp Camps.

Kioloa is on the south coast of NSW, where Captain Cook first landed on Australian soil and where Alice Giles holds an annual summer harp course.

Last in the region in 2010, SHE played to a capacity audience in a Candlelight

32 greater port macquarie focus.

Concert at Kendall School of Arts. Such was the praise and enjoyment expressed by the audience, that Camden Haven Music organisers decided that on this current visit the Port Macquarie Glasshouse was the ideal venue for them.

“Their performance is so visually appealing and beautiful, that we wanted more people to have the opportunity to see and hear them in a larger space,” explained Program Director Alvena Ferguson.

Another favourite ensemble re-visiting the area for Camden Haven Music’s autumn concert series is Strelitzia Piano Trio, playing a program titled Feminine Charms, featuring an all-female composer repertoire. Led by violinist Victoria Jacono-Gilmovich, this program has been chosen especially to highlight the often unrecognised talent of female composers. Gayeneh Tchebodarian’s energetic and powerful Piano Trio features driving rhythms and exotic melodies inspired by the music of her native Armenia, while Elena Kats-Chernin’s Gypsy Ramble shows the influence of Eastern European folk music within her uniquely engaging, ebullient style.

American composer, Jennifer Higdon,

explores the idea of colour and mood in her 2003 Piano Trio, and Australian composer, Ann Boyd-Carr, has written Fantasy for Strelitzia especially for this ensemble. The piece will have its premiere performance at their Kendall concert. Finally, we hear from Clara Schumann, whose distinctively romantic Piano Trio in G minor is now being recognised and performed alongside those of her husband and male contemporaries.

A newly formed piano quartet rounds out the feast of Classical Music being offered in March. The Sydney Piano Quartet led by internationally renowned pianist, Tamara Anna Cislowska, is resident ensemble at UTS. Comprising ACO violinist Veronique Serret, cellist Thomas Rann, violist James Wannen in addition to Ms Cislowska, they will offer an eclectic program of romantic and robust pieces by Mahler, Suk, Chopin and Kats-Chernin.

Check out the full program at www.chm. org.au or collect a brochure from libraries and visitor centres. All ticket purchasing details are in the brochure and on the website.

For enquiries phone Camden Haven Music on 0401 608 240 or email chm@tsn.cc

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch with Susie Boswell

Cycling, it’s said, is “the new golf”.

Gweneth Newell.

Linda Hall.

Port Macquarie boasts one of the keenest cycling communities around, its regional topography of hills, slopes and long straight stretches ideal challenging conditions. Riders of all ages and abilities indulge in road racing, mountain biking or cycling merely for pleasure. This month, Susie meets one local aficionado. ut To Lunch today is not the usual seafood spread and chat with my guest at The Stunned Mullet’s landmark location … but rather a staccato midmorning conversation snatched over a simple iced coffee, at a somewhat different spot.

Gweneth Newell’s unable tear herself away from work serving refreshments in the busy café she owns, so I find myself in her environment instead. Seated at a table opposite her, I’m surrounded by some remarkable paraphernalia: a bicycle sits mounted on display inches from my head, I’m looking at bicycles hung on walls and strung up above me, a mechanic works painstakingly on a bike just metres away and four more bikes are fixed at angles on a floorto-ceiling steel rod, like a whirl of metallic pole dancers. Outside the window there are a variety of parked bikes and yet more bikes - maybe 400 of them - are all around, cramming every cranny in the adjacent Gordon Street Cycles shop.

Bikes, bikes, BIKES. The setting is one, however, that’s equally iconic in Port Macquarie. We’re at the Peloton Café at the eastern terminus of the Oxley Highway, quite a landmark for our town’s big coterie of cycling enthusiasts. Every morning after their dawn run, dozens of riders pull up here for an alfresco snack, their bikes parked jealously beside them on the pavement.

“Some of their bikes are worth $5000 or $6000,” Newell explains, and so must remain visibly under guard of their owners. Indeed, one new model close by me bears a price tag of $5899, but that’s nothing compared with the $20,000 custom-made number sold to one keen customer.

The business is owned by Newell and husband Lloyd, who’s away today competing in Australia’s biggest road cycle race, the Tour Down Under, opening event of the world cycling calendar, over 800km over six days out of Adelaide, winding through South Australia’s wine country.

Along with Lloyd, Opposition Leader Tony Abbott and Sports Minister Mark Arbib were

among the international field of more than 7000 riders in this year’s event.

Lloyd and Arbib, both 41, and Abbott, 54, are typical of the many older followers of the sport that have seen it branded ‘the new golf”.

Thanks to a range of influences - a 21st century fixation on personal fitness pursuits, Cadel Evans’s victory in the Tour de France among them - cycling in its various forms has grown in popularity in recent years, among all age groups.

And nowhere more so than in Port Macquarie where the biannual Ironman events stimulate local interest in pedal power (although, Newell suggests, we need more cycle paths here, especially along our scenic string of beaches).

The couple’s shop is one of three dotted around the town centre: Cycling, Graham Seers Cyclery at Port it’s said, is “the Marina on Park Street and TRS on new golf ”..

Clarence Street are equally in the hands of keen rider-proprietors and Griffin, OAM for services to similarly packed to the rafters with cycling, former bike shop owner, gleaming new bikes, integral in Port’s for 30 years Grafton-Inverell race big cultural community of mountain biking director, whose early involvement with bikes was and road and triathlon cyclists, not to mention as a rider delivering messages to Ben Chifley sheer recreational riders. shortly after the Second World War, and who’s Newell herself only began riding when the covered hundreds of thousands of kilometres couple moved in to the business seven years ago in his lifetime. The menu here has a sandwich but has since been known to hit the road with named for him, the “Griffo”. the single-minded determination cycling fanatics Aside from topline bikes, low GI cakes and exhibit. “I did the Grafton to Inverell race,” [a coffee apparatus, the premises host a massage 50-year-old annual amateur classic covering therapist and repair shop and are stuffed with 230km over the steep, winding Gibraltar Range] other cycling gear: kids’ mini bikes with white she tells me, the only female competitor that tyres and handlebar streamers, fitted with tiny year to complete the entire distance within the pillion seats and parcel baskets; replacement timeframe. “I did heaps of training, 450km a handlebars and pedals; spare tyres, helmets, week, in the lead-up to that!” she recalls. pumps; monogrammed jerseys; compression leg Today, however, she’s racing around the café sleeves (“better performance, faster recovery”); instead, pulling coffees, toasting bread, serving socks that look like gloves, knitted with five tables, while greeting regular patrons by name: individually segmented toe spaces (“allow the “Hi Dan! Hi Simon!” and slapping kisses on foot to function naturally”); peculiar fig-shaped the cheeks of youngsters accompanying their pink leather items that, Newell informs me (a parents. One not-so-young patron seated glaring novice), are special bike seats “for the nearby, dressed in shorts, jersey and bike shoes, female anatomy”; even a handlebar iPhone looks to be in his late 70s. I learn later it’s Jack

holder. There are oil paintings of cyclists, framed autographed jerseys, books featuring Lance Armstrong’s exploits, bike magazines and a forest of trophies: his and hers belonging to the Newells and Peloton-sponsored world champs Belinda Porter and Jason English.

Newell took up the sport after meeting Lloyd - a lifetime enthusiast, significant achiever and competitor here and abroad, local club officebearer and mentor and coach to young riders - so she would not be a “cycling widow”. Yet now her days begin at 5.30, gearing up the café for the onslaught, leaping about the place tending to the stream of customers.

Tiring? Not at all! Newell’s eyes light up with the earnestness of a zealot: “Fitness is part of our lifestyle. We hang out with like-minded people; we live our passion and our hobby. We don’t smoke, we get up early, we don’t go out partying …”

What, no partying for cyclists?

“Well,” she admits with a grin, “not really hard, anyway!”

The Out To Lunch series is hosted

by Lou Perri at The Stunned Mullet

greater port macquarie focus 33

TWO STUNNING MUSICAL SHOWS FOR ONE FABULOUS PRICE! To b o

6581 ok call 8888 or dr op in*

Direct from the farmer.

Buy tickets to both of these stellar performances and save 10%. $66.95 Adult, $60.65 Conc, $49.85 Under 21/Student *This offer is not available online.

Presented in association with Musica Viva Australia

SIMON TEDESCHI & IAN COOPER Saturday 11 February, 8:00pm

A mind-blowing evening of music.

Simon Tedeschi will be performing everything from Bach to the coolest swingin’ jazz with violinist Ian Cooper - an experience described by the legendary James Morrison has described as “nitro with glycerine – an explosion of musical virtuosity”.

2

Single tickets: $34.50 Adult, $30.50 Conc/Group 6+, $24.50 Under 21/Student,†

201

ELIXIR featuring Katie Noonan Wednesday 29 February, 8:00pm

Elixir perform their ARIA award winning album First Seed Ripening.

Multi-award winning songstress Katie Noonan performs with her jazz trio Elixir, to bring you a unique musical blend of folk and jazz - a night of spellbinding and intoxicating music that showcases Noonan’s incomparable voice.

Single tickets: $39.90 Adult, $36.90 Conc/Group 6+, $30.90 Under 21/Student† †Glasshouse subscriber prices available.

(02) 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE & THE GLASSHOUSE PRESENT

CELEBRITY AUTOBIOGRAPHY

DIRTY THREE

Wednesday 1 February, 8pm

Wednesday 14 March, 8pm

A night of non-stop laughter as outrageous celebrity memoirs are read live on stage by Mikey Robins and a cast of comedic geniuses – brilliantly banal, deliciously ridiculous and seriously absurd autobiographical ramblings of the rich and famous!

The most purely-expressed live act on the planet, Dirty Three, live at the Glasshouse! A spellbinding live performance – expect to fall in love…

34 greater port macquarie focus.

“They’re utterly unique and absolutely world class.” Nick Cave

Farmers Beef Direct.

There’s something really satisfying and emFarmers Beef Direct is a husband and wife powering knowing the history of the food that team situated in the stunning Bellingen you’re consuming and feeding your family.

Valley, on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Farmers Beef Direct cattle are free range, grassTogether with their three gorgeous girls in tow, fed, ethically farmed and guaranteed they own several farms in the Bellhormone free. Their beef is aged ingen and Dorrigo districts and correctly for maximum flavour manage their magnificent tenderness. There are no beef cattle to the highest All the s to secrets – only the ability to and strictest of standards. customer need e do is jump onlin provide you with great, honTheir cattle are treated ck and order a pa ed, est beef. It’s a great feeling to humanely and grown corer liv de and it is to , ge know you’re directly supportrectly. They decided that ar ch of free ing a local Coffs Coast farmer. it’s only fair that others your door. should have access to their All the customer needs to do is superior tasting beef, direct jump online and order a pack and from the farmer. it is delivered, free of charge, to your Farmers Beef Direct is an online business and currently offers those people who live on the Australian eastern seaboard, from Coffs Harbour to Newcastle, the opportunity to share in their home grown delights.

door. Now, that’s service. Their beef is all vacuum packed into meal size portions, so all the hard work has been done for you.

Taste the difference at Farmers Beef Direct. You will be back for seconds in no time at all!

KO R E A T R I P .

focusinterview.

Peak Coffee consultant, Sean Edwards, was recently invited to visit Korea, where he presented at the Korea Café Show …

I

t was a trip into the unknown for me.

I was personally feeling a little nervous about the project I had been asked to perform by my good friends from Taehwan Automation, who build the popular Proaster coffee roasters. Nevertheless, I was on my way to Korea to speak about emerging trends in the café marketplace in Australasia at the annual Café Show in Seoul. I did not know a lot about the café/coffee industry in Korea and had been told by associates it was very advanced and quite unique.

Arriving at the Seoul airport and driving into the city gave me a bit of an idea how a metropolis of over 20 million people looked. Every direction I turned, there were immense clusters of skyscrapers housing this huge population in South Korea.

It was late November, and the winter was starting to merge its way into this part of the world. The clumps of trees in the parkways were past autumn brown and leaves had fallen, as they prepared for snow cover. My host and interpreter, Hana Jang – International Sales Manager for Proaster, explained that it was always rush hour in Seoul, as many people owned cars.

My first night was at a traditional Korean BBQ house, where our hosts, the Kim family, showed me all the fine dining etiquettes of a cook your own meat fest, Korean style. The tasty food was well complemented by lots of local Hite beer combined with the local spirit, Suju, which is

similar to vodka. I had my first taste that night of Kimchee, the favourite staple of Koreans, which is fermented white cabbage and shallot smothered in homemade chili paste. Kimchee is well known for its cancer treating qualities and has been a staple in Korean diets for over one thousand years. I found out later in the trip that Koreans love any food or beverage that has been specially fermented.

On day two, I miraculously found my meeting point with Hana, on the other side of the city, via the vast network of the extremely efficient subway systems. We were heading to the university suburb of Hapjeong, famous for its cool café scene. Seoul has thousands of cafés and like most Asian cities, is dominated by chain stores. In the Hapjeong District, the young crowd drove a very arty subculture that was full of great concepts and high quality coffee businesses.

My eyes widened when I had my first glimpse of an independently owned café. The structure was very cool, with an in-house 2 kg roaster and a great selection of single estate coffees on the menu, completing the state of the art espresso and grinding equipment. This was complemented with the right selection of passionate people working the café floor. What struck me immediately was that the business was built around coffee, not just an espresso system.

Brew bars are the mainstay for all Korean café structures, and elaborate brew bars take centre

stage in most café/bars. Straight away, I knew I was also my debut as an international presenter, had a major challenge ahead of me in my future and the lecture room was full. Much to my surconference presentation, as this coffee industry prise, the crowd enjoyed my presentation on the was in a very advanced state of coffee presentaAustralian industry, and I answered many question and quality practices. I fell in love straight tions in regard to different techniques and pracaway with the hand drip concept, which makes tices in the café/coffee business that we take up 80% of takeout coffee in cafés. for granted. Like most people who travel, Punters get a choice of coffee I am always learning, and I found the origins, then the barista skillfully Korean coffee industry extremely grinds and brews each coffee interesting – and I liked many s an Kore ng to its temperature and infuaspects of their approach to generally workinloe sion time profiles. fresh coffee brewed simply. hours, so caffe ost is a staple of m– and Cafés in Korea don’t tend I think we have overcompliKoreans’ diet are to open before 10am, so cated ourselves in Australi and es ffe co t mos out coffee consumption goes late have been led around a bit by consumed with milk. into the night. Koreans generespresso manufacturers with ally work long hours, so caffeine equipment trends. The idea of is a staple of most Koreans’ diet – simple pour over filter coffee excited and most coffees are consumed without me for future movements in Australia. milk. The choice of high quality was amazing, I also enjoyed the fact that cafés trade well and most cafés had a good range of cup of into the evening and night cafés were very excellence beans from all world origins. popular, as a good alternative to going to a The in-house roasting concept is very big in smokey bar.

Seoul and is almost the norm for quality café Any country that enjoys beer, meat and coffee structures. The level of passion and quest for this much is a good place to visit. Look out for knowledge is contagious amongst the cool cofthe Proaster roasting concept in Australian cafés; fee crowd, and Korean coffee professionals will it is definitely the future of our industry. To see comb the earth for high-end coffee education. this roasting concept in action locally, visit us at Day three was the first day of ‘Café Show’ at Peak Coffee, where all of the brewing meththe Coex building in downtown Seoul. The expo ods and roasting techniques mentioned above consisted of two large halls filled with mainly are on show, as well as a great range of world coffee/café suppliers’ products and services. This origins to try.

greater port macquarie focus 35

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Blackmore

February 21 is Shrove Tuesday (or Pancake Day, as it is better known), but pancakes are one of those universal snacks that can be enjoyed any time of the day, all year round. If you visit the Foreshore Market in Port Macquarie or the Riverwalk Market in Laurieton each month, your tastebuds are in for a treat.

Robbie Blackmore, the face behind Robbie’s Dutch Pancakes, introduces us to Poffertjes ...

time again.

They are cooked on gas burners using a special Poffertjes pan and served hot and fresh in a bowl of 12, with your choice of syrup (maple, chocolate, strawberry or caramel) and fresh cream, or with cinnamon sugar, lemon juice or for the more traditional, powdered hat got you started sugar and butter. making and selling What’s the feedback from the sale of your Dutch pancakes?

I took over this business pancakes been like?

Our Dutch pancakes are extremely popular, approx. 18 months ago; with people lining up to get some, rain, hail it had previously been operated by a friend of or shine.

Some locals tell me they get up early ours for over 10 years. I knew I couldn’t go on market days just to come and get some! I wrong with our kids being the biggest fans – also sell to visitors from around Australia and insisting on having them every time we came to overseas, who come back for more than one the markets. plate because they enjoy them so much!

Since taking it on, I haven’t looked back. I I was in Sydney 6 months ago in a meeting, really enjoy making the Dutch pancakes and where I had mentioned the Dutch pancakes then looking out into the crowd and seeing and was shocked to find my Dutch our bowls being carried around by Pancakes were known to these happy customers. people via the Laurieton What exactly is a Dutch Markets.

This is the most pancake, and how does During cooking, rewarding part of my e it differ from common the panckaes ar e th at job, knowing how th pancakes? turned so t much people love the Dutch Pancakes, or centre does nolid ify, so y el et pl m co pancakes and meeting Poffertjes as they are d ing them nice an ak m new people from all over. e th traditionally known, are round and soft in Where can people try like small, fluffy pancakes, middle. your Dutch pancakes? but taste sweeter. During You can fi nd me every cooking, the pancakes are second Saturday of the month turned so the centre does not at the Foreshore Market at Westport completely solidify, making them nice Park in Port Macquarie and every third Sunday and round and soft in the middle. of the month at the Riverwalk Markets in They primarily consist of flour, eggs, milk and Laurieton.

I also attend other special markets as vanilla; we also have a secret ingredient that they occur during the year. makes our pancakes even sweeter and tastier Thanks Robbie. and has people coming back for more time and

W

36 greater port macquarie focus.

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Andrew Hearne A desire to produce quality organic produce and some keen business skills have led local business, Near River Produce, to diversify in some interesting and delicious ways ...

T

ell us a little about your nt Sydney Restaurant. How prominent property, Near River. did that come about? ine listing with the Australian Near River is a 22 acre Our online ood Guide had the chefs at farm on the banks of the Regional Food k lB dG ill iin Pappinbarra River, 15 Neil Perry’s R Rockpool Bar and Grill km west of Beechwood in the Hastings Sydney track us down, and after being Valley hinterland. suitably impressed with our garlic, we We moved here a little over four years now supply them on a weekly basis. ago from Sydney to set up an organic It is really good to see an increasing market farm, and slowly but surely we number of producers of quality have been doing that. foodstuffs from the Mid North Coast Previously, the property had been being recognised and sought after to used as a hobby farm – which was good supply some of the country’s leading for our plans, as the use of chemical restaurants. fertilisers and pesticides had been very We also sell garlic online at our minimal. This also ensured the soil farmgate shop, and through our was in fairly good shape – stall at the region’s markets full of worms and other at Laurieton, the Port organisms – perfect for Foreshore and growing great plants. p’ Gladstone.

The other ‘cron ow kn What are some of You opened that we are perb su r ou e the main crops you up the farm for ar k free range choo have grown over to foodies in ock eggs, that our flan the years?

October for the d of Australorp Our main crop is event Breakfast Isa Brown hens garlic, which seems in the Beds. What provide. to do well here in the was the feedback valley, and we also have like, and are you a large rhubarb crop, which planning more events? we primarily use in two items in Not only foodies, but anyone our preserve range, a Rhubarb, Lime + who is interested in how and where their Ginger Compote and a Rhubarb Paste. food is grown and by whom. Breakfast in We also grow a range of seasonal the Beds was our first paddock to plate vegetables, including asparagus, event, and it was a real success. zucchini, pumpkin, lettuce, beetroot, We had 65 people under a large beans, snow peas, and an ever increasing marquee enjoying freshly harvested number of salad greens – mizuna, tatsoi, citrus, asparagus, spinach and eggs that endive, mustard greens, chicory. they had just collected and handed to The other ‘crop’ that we are known the chefs to prepare for their breakfast. for are our superb free range chook It was a great day, and from that came eggs, that our flock of Australorp and Isa requests to do it again.

Brown hens provide.

So, on March 3 we’ll be having Meals Recently you have really expanded in the Fields – a dinner for 50 featuring the garlic crops and now supply a four courses of sumptuous local produce

partnered with fine wine and craft beer.

Once again, we’ll be in the paddock, and there’ll be a string quartet serenading in the background.

And the same team will be in the kitchen – Eric and Geoff from The Other Chef Fine Foods and Todd from The Corner Restaurant.

Bookings are available at www. mealsinthefields.com What does your Hinterland boxes concept involve?

We are passionate about local food, and the importance of providing nutrient dense produce to our wider community.

Any plant starts losing its goodness the moment its harvested. With our Hinterland Food Boxes, what we deliver to your door was growing in the ground the day before, not shipped in from Queensland or stored in some cold store for a week or two.

Along with produce from our farm, you’ll also receive vegetables from six or seven other growers, all within the Hastings catchment. Some of our range at the moment includes potatoes from Comboyne, avocadoes from Telegraph Point, beans and pumpkins from Bellangary, and Asian greens, capsicum, and beetroot from growers at Rollands Plains, who are all certified organic or in conversion.

You order online each Tuesday at www.hinterlandfoodbox.com and your box is delivered on Thursday evening. It’s just like the farmers’ market that comes to your door.

Thanks Andrew. greater port macquarie focus 37

38 greater port macquarie focus.

A New Flavour at Port Golf Club

louperri. from The Stunned Mullet

pleasures

What’s reаonable for se ice?

When you go to Dan Murphy’s, you pick a bottle of wine off the shelf. You read the label, or you rely on past knowledge of the wine.

Nobody asks you if you need any help, as you are pretty much in a liquor supermarket – and the onus is on making your own choices.

Y

ou eventually make your selection, pop it in your basket, run it through the checkout, and boom ... it’s yours!

In a restaurant, you’re greeted, seated and brought menus and a wine list. You are unsure about a particular food or wine variety and want to learn more about it. You ask a waiter for advice, and they oblige (or we hope), they may offer a wealth of information on every wine on the wine list and perhaps offer you suggestions based on your food choices as well ... and as an added bonus, you get a chair, table, perhaps a view and atmosphere to enjoy your wine. Sounds ideal, doesn’t it? And ... there is the added bonus that you may also pay less for the same wine at a restaurant than at Dan Murphy’s.

But what it comes down to is varying levels of service, and you guessed it, those varying levels have their associated costs – and this applies to all sectors and businesses, not just restaurants.

In many facets of our day to day life, we ‘reluctantly’ pay for service. Why is that? Our time is extremely precious and valuable, so why is it that we don’t place any reasonable value on it? For example, bank charges and fees. Well, we may grumble a little, but we grin and bear those. Or there’s waiting to see the doctor. You wait and wait, with no information given about the delay at hand.

But then you’re in, hand over the fee, and that’s it. Waiting is a given – part and parcel of the whole thing, along with the dated magazines and infectious sounding coughs around you.

When it comes to dining out though, it all changes. We want everything to be absolutely perfect – music’s too loud, that fan is blowing a draught, can we design our meal so it’s

completely different to what’s on the menu and least I not forget, we want to bring in our own alcohol and food to a place that already sells the stuff!

Personalised service is surely worth something ... isn’t it?

Often though, we don’t appreciate it enough in this country.

All the little tweaks and touches that we like when we’re dining out have a cost associated with them. We all expect preferential treatment, and we all like to feel like we are the most important person in the room.

Most of us have a fairly fixed perception of what a reasonable price to pay is, and this goes for most sectors of the service industry.

But the difference between calling a plumber, going to the GP or getting your dishwasher fixed and going out to a restaurant is this: when we dine out, we have a skewed perception of value.

At the end of the day, service in Australia is expensive. Why do you think you speak to someone overseas every time you call the customer service department of your extremely profitable Australian bank?

Restaurants provide a service, and expecting staff to firstly be there and secondly be well trained with encyclopaedic knowledge of menus and wine lists bears a cost. Employing enough staff on each shift to ensure every customer gets the attention they deserve bears a cost. Creating great food, requiring high quality ingredients, bears a coast.

I could go on, but I won’t. Good service, in any industry, is a highly complex benchmark to achieve. It requires huge amounts of resources, time, effort and money.

Be pragmatic, and be prepared to pay accordingly.

Gabi and Ashley Mitcham have started a new small business running the bistro at the Port Macquarie Golf Club as of 1 January 2012.

Ashley has worked at different restaurants around Australia and England, including working for Marco Pierre White and a number of other Michelin star restaurants in England.

After returning home, he managed the catering upon the Queensland Rail, before moving to Sydney to start a family. During this time, Ashley was responsible for catering at Laissez-Faire, managing large group functions and small barbecue/outdoor catering.

Ashley and Gabi moved to Port Macquarie in August 2008 and now have two preschool aged daughters. Ashley previously worked at the Country Club in Wauchope, before settling down in Port Macquarie and becoming Executive Chef first at the Mercure Centro Synergy Restaurant,

then at the Town Green Inn. Ashley and Gabi are very excited to start their own business and will endeavour to provide quality food at bistro prices, using fresh, local produce.

Some of the specials at the Port Macquarie Golf Club Bistro include: a two-course $9.50 lunch every day, Roast Dinners on Wednesday and Friday nights for only $15 and a two-course roast lunch on Sundays.

Don’t forget to come and try our beautiful main courses comprised of the best quality steaks at great prices!

greater port macquarie focus 39

40 greater port macquarie focus.

ffocussocial.

with Kate Wood-Foye from Rydges Port Macquarie

pictured Guests enjoying the opening of Port HQ.

left Rochelle & Luke on their engagement.

below Bree, Debbie and Debbie at the Jones’ engagement party. left Anthony Goetz & Kristy Hodge on their engagement at Zebu.

pictured Christie-Lee Jackson and Bec Jones at Bec’s engagement.

“Fabulous February my favourite month of the year!”

S

ummer is still in full swing, days are long, weekends too short and parties on a roll. Happy birthday fellow Aquarians! Another candle on the cake for me, and hopefully another

pair of shoes in the pile!

Obvious pressie hints aside (ahem, Steve!) this year I am hoping for a big year with friends and family and loads of exciting things on the social

two – a fab night of fun! Slightly scary to see the

have a happy countdown until the big day and lots

keep the tunes coming, with a Ruby Red cocktail

pics the next day – love those photo booths and

of lovely pressies to welcome the new arrival.

on arrival and some luscious canapés. Tickets are

fancy dress accessories, but those retro sunnies ... seriously, what was I thinking!

New office space – HQ Port Macquarie – opened

$35pp including fashion, canapés and cocktail on

recently with a cocktail party for 30 guests. This

arrival. Prize for best dressed – lady in red, best red

funky new space located above the boardwalk is

heels and red accessories. The event is all in aid of

gathered together for a hilarious hen’s night put

an office and meeting place for lease for corporate

the Red Shield Appeal. Tickets available through

together by little sister, Sarah Ward, and Maid of

clientele and business people wanting a business

Rydges reception. Get in quick, as tickets will sell

Honour, Sophie Mellor, for Feb bride to be and

home away from home in the CBD. An enjoyable

out!

sister-in-law, Brooke Gardener. The day began at

night had by all, with surprise performance from

Zebu with nibbles and Sangria (drunk through

the entertainers, ‘The Three Waiters’ and magician

was that of the lovely Rochelle Glover and Luke

dubious purple appendage shaped straws!)

Jay Jay. Good luck to Ben and Emma!

Dufty, who celebrated at the Gladstone Hotel with

On the same night across town, a group of girls

After knocking off the sublime Sangria, we

Former local girl, Kristy Hodge, and Balmain lad,

Another engagement celebrated this month

120 family and friends. Rochelle, from Rydges Port

headed to the Observatory to enjoy cheese and

Anthony Goetz, also celebrated their engagement,

Macquarie, and Luke, a local boiler maker, met

the universe to start reversing my age – more than

bubbles on the balcony before a cruise on the Junk

with a divine four-course feast in the Zebu Room

five and half years ago on a night out with friends

happy for it to run backwards from here on in!

boat. I must make a personal apology to the poor

with 36 guests. Guests were greeted with a

– and have never looked back! Congrats to the

The beginning of the year has not disappointed,

group of six sedate cruisers who were stuck at sea

Champagne No5 cocktail on the private balcony,

gorgeous couple, who are making plans for a 2013

launching into a social frenzy with celebrations

with 15 rowdy and raunchy hens and an esky full

followed by an Amuse Bouche, flatbreads and

spring wedding.

every weekend.

of vodka and bubbles – a seriously deadly and noisy

a divine three-course menu created by chef Ben

combo.

Holloway, which included duck roulade, sea

besties, Christie-Lee Jackson and Jamie Styles. The

scallops, lamb rump and a decadent banana tarte

couple jet off to Melbourne to follow new careers

tartin. Congrats Kristy and Anthony!

in their chosen fields and will be sorely missed by

calendar. I am also putting in a special request for

Congrats to Bec Jones and Jay Siderenko, who recently celebrated their engagement with

Once off the boat, the gals headed back to the

80 friends and family at Flynns Beach Surf Club.

hotel to dress up and hit the town, while I jumped

Guests wore chic cocktail and partied the night

ship and headed back to Flynns Beach to finish off

away with a fun fancy dress photo booth and a DJ

the night with the Bec and her guests.

February is bittersweet for me, with a farewell to

Get your best red frock and heels out for a

many – not least by the Wood-Foye clan! Plenty

night of red hot fashion, with the Ladies in Red

of farewell parties to say goodbye, and I am sure

Fashion event at Rydges on Thursday 16 February.

a few bottles of bubbles won’t go astray! My only

absolutely gorgeous and had a ball with friends

shower for one of my favourite strawberry blondes,

This girls’ only event will be showcasing fashion,

consolation is the multitude of shopping trips and

from Cairns, Central Coast, Wauchope and Port

Kylie Morgan, who looked absolutely divine in her

make up and hair art from across the Hastings.

shoe expeditions I have already locked in for south

Macquarie, including Carrie and Jeremy, Krystal,

bumpdom. Kylie’s bestie Vanessa, and Mum, Helen

Fashion houses from across the Hastings will be

of the border! Who do I have to speak to, to get

Katie and Birdie, Christie Lee and Jamie Styles.

Morgan, hosted one of the best bump dos I have

presenting their new season pieces in this catwalk

that direct flight to Melbourne up and running?

been to, with fab food and fun games. With her

cocktail event red, including beachwear, cocktail,

‘til next month!

little surprise package due in May, Kylie and Ben

formal and sportswear. Private DJ, Ollie Brooke, will

Kate.

direct from the Central Coast. Beccy and Jay looked

Guests enjoyed canapés prepared by family and friends and of course, lots of bubbly! Congrats you

Popped out to Yippin Creek for a fabulous baby

greater port macquarie focus 41

focusinterview.

Thara Thai Restaurant in Wauchope has been blessed by Buddhist Monks to celebrate 2 years in business – and to bring ongoing luck and prosperity to all those present. Chrissy Jones had the pleasure of being invited to witness the event and chats with owner, Thara Watson.

Thara

hra Preechayannawithet, Abbot of Wat Dhammatharo Canberra and President of Thai Buddhist Mission in Australia/ New Zealand (Dhammayuti Sect) and fellow Buddhist Monks, Phra Sanguan and Phra Sonqkhram Grisanqa, joined around 100 members of the Hastings Community to celebrate the Buddhist New Year and the Blessing of Thara Thai Restaurant in early January.

Tell us Thara, what is today all about? What does it mean to you?

Today is about celebrating Thai New Year, the bringing together of the local Thai Community and friends to celebrate the coming of the New Year. Normally this is held on 1 January, but as I have invited the Monks from Canberra, we are celebrating today, 8 January, so they could be here. The Monks are building a Monastery in Canberra, and I wanted to make an offering from myself, from my heart, to them to help to build a temple in Canberra so people can come from all over Australia and the world to pray.

Members of our Thai community are collecting money whenever they can to help. If anyone would like to help with a donation, I ask you to drop into Thara Thai in Wauchope or the Thai House in Port Macquarie. The Temple in Canberra belongs to everyone in Australia and represents friendship between Australians and Thai for the past 15 years.

We have a money tree inside, where my guests are placing offerings which I will pass on to the Monks at the end of the day. This is an offering to the Monks and my religion, Buddhism; that is why I have asked all my 42 greater port macquarie focus.

friends and good patrons of the restaurant to Chrissy also spoke to Charlie, who was a Monk for 16 years. come together, donate money, and I will make the offering to the Monks for a blessing of What is your full name Charlie, and why Thailand, we call this the rainy season. For good luck for the future and prosperity of my did you stop being a Monk? three months the Monks are not allowed to restaurant and all present.

My name is Somkiat Termchai, and I was a travel anywhere. They have almost 227 rules We celebrate New Year the same as Theravada (pronounced – more or less – ‘terra– lots of little rules. For example, the Monk is Australians, but we need the Monks to be VAH-dah’) Buddhist Monk in Thailand and in not allowed to touch a lady. They have many, involved with our celebrations, to bless us. We Australia for 16 years before I retired. They many rules. Another one is that they do not give food to the Monks as they don’t cook; they call me Charlie here. I started as a Monk early, eat after midday every day. They have only one have to eat before noon, and they only have one when I was 14 years, as a Novice – a little meal a day. meal per day. They are allowed to drink tea and Monk – in Thailand and became a Monk at 22 The Monk does not have any money – none water but no food – just one meal for the day. years of age, after training many years. You at all. People in Thailand will hang in the tree I noticed a lot of people brought food. cannot become a Monk until you are at least any cloth they do not need; if a Monk passes Why did they do this?

20 years of age. by, he can take that piece of cloth to make his Yes, they bring the food to I stopped being a Monk, as robe. You see, the Monk robe can have many offer to the Monks; that is the my individual view. I prefer not different pieces of cloth they sew together and way of giving away in our to follow all the rules of the dye. The robe could be from many pieces of The Monk leads e. religion, Buddhism. The Monk – about 227 rules. I cloth left hanging in trees, given as an offering. a very simple life the first step is to give away They only havg. still practice my meditation Do you know what the chanting was basics for livin her and then stick to the five and religion every day.

I like about that the Monks were doing earlier?

They rely on otthem precepts to be a Buddhist to be more common, like The chanting is in the Pali language. It is a people to give not layman. The precepts are: other people; I like to travel, dead language; it is not used anymore. It is an do food. They no killing, no telling lies, not and the Monks have to stay ancient Indian language. The chanting is about cook.. having sexual misconduct, no at the Monastery. I wanted the blessing; the Monks chant about obstacles stealing and no intoxication. To to blend in with society more. that they have passed through in their lives. be a good Buddhist, you have to be Because I practised Buddhism for over The topic today is about love and kindness and strict with these rules. If you can stick to at 30 years, I have travelled the world, over 40 good luck for the year. least 4 precepts, try to do as much as you can, countries, following my teacher and visiting There are lots of people here; do you that is good.

Monasteries. know where they came from?

Tell us a little about the Thai religion ...

Tell us about the Monks’ life.

They came from all over: Crescent Head, About 90% are Buddhist, practising The Monk leads a very simple life. They only South West Rocks, Kempsey, Taree, Port Theravada Buddhism – which is different from have the basics for living. They rely on other Macquarie, Wauchope and Sydney. They Tibetan Buddhism. Theravada Buddhism takes people to give them food. They do not cook. have all come to listen to the Monks give the in the regions of Thailand, Burma, Cambodia, The Monk follows a lot of rules. Every 15 days blessing and offer them the food they have Vietnam and Sri Lanka. You must practice the 5 when there is a full moon, they get together cooked. They are all very happy to be here to precepts to be a true Buddhist layman. in a quiet place and chant, do Pali. Every year witness the blessing by the Monks.

Thank you Thara. they do a retreat, from July to October; in Thank you Charlie.

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Forster and Wallis Lakes are situated just over 3 hours’ drive north of Sydney and enjoy mild temperatures all year round.

The superb waterway of Wallis Lake is 26 km long and up to 10 km wide in some places.

Why? Look at the map, and you will notice Forster is like an island, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and Wallis Lake on the other. Rain falls mainly at night, which is an indication of the semitropical climate residents and visitors love!

Picnic, sunbake, fish, or laze the day away on one of 30 islands, or explore such rivers as Wallinghat, Coolongolook and the Wang Wauk.

The natural beauty of the area is hard to describe, with crystal clear, unpolluted water and golden beaches you must see to believe.

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greater port macquarie focus 43

focuseditorial.

focuseditorial.

Bravissimo Concert.

The Bravissimo concert provides an opportunity for Mid North Coast music students who have excelled in their recent Higher School Certificate Music exams.

Australia’s 1st ever national drag competition.

Out N Hastings is a not-for-profit organisation that plans social events for our 300 plus members. The event we have in mind is a Drag King and Queen competition, to be hosted on 4 February 2012. We have chosen this time because there are a large number of GLBQTI people travelling between the Tropical Fruits event held in Lismore (31 Dec to 1 Jan) and the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras (Feb June).

We will hold the event at the Glasshouse on a Saturday evening, 4 - 8pm. The event will promote acceptance of the GLBQTI community and reduce antidiscrimination for members in the greater community.

We expect Feb 2012 to be the inaugural annual event, with numbers growing each year. The host will be Miss Candy Box. Stonewall Hotel Sydney may be filming as part of the Stonewall Hotel TV channel launch.

The event will consist of heats and finals for both drag kings and drag queens. Each participant will initially be provided with a

3 minute segment for an act. They will be judged by guest judges, Tobin Saunders, Maya Spinnari and Shane Haydock. The three top performers will then move forward to the final.

The final will require a different act to the one provided in the heats. Tickets will sell to the general public for $27.50.

The Queen or King will each receive a major prize of accommodation in Sydney for 2 for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, with local support prizes in kind for the runners up sourced by ONH. Upon registration, all participants will receive a welcome pack, which will include: a unique event badge, local map, program for the night, accommodation information, dining information, local tourist attractions and an evaluation survey.

The upcoming concert will display vocal and instrumental soloists of our local region who excelled in the 2011 HSC Music 1, Music 2 and/ or Music Extension courses. These young people are truly amazing. The selected students to perform draw from 35 high schools in the area, spanning from Forster out to Armidale and up to Coffs Harbour. Quite a few school groups will be attending this once only matinee concert.

Layla Micallef from Melville High School, Kempsey achieved a band 6 for her HSC Music course as a singer and double bass player.

Freya Mudie from Wingham High School is a seventh grade AMEB pianist who completed Music 1 for the HSC and received a band six, helping her reach an ATAR of 91.50.

Jonathan Hingston St Columba Anglican School Port Macquarie – currently the Open Pianoforte Champion of Port Macquarie Eisteddfod.

Stephen O’Hern Armidale High School – “He is the most talented guitarist I have taught ... in my 25 year career.“ – Rowena Teege, Music teacher, Armidale High School.

Laura Small St Joseph’s Regional College Port Macquarie. Laura began learning piano at age 5 and completed her 8th grade exam in 2011 with an A+.

Kumari La Motte Taree High School. Accepted into the Conservatorium of Music in 2012 and doing a Bachelor of Music.

Chris Van der Wielan MacKillop Senior College, Port Macquarie. Studied Music 1 at MacKillop, and received a score of 97. ATAR was 93.2. Next year he is planning on studying Jazz at either Australian National University in Canberra or the Conservatorium.

the plug!

When: Friday 17 February 2012 at 12.30pm.

Where: Glasshouse Port Macquarie.

We Learn Something New Everyday.

Residents prove that it’s never too late to master the web in our well appointed library.

While you’re living it up, your family will have peace of mind that you’ll be thriving in a warm and friendly community with four levels of care.

44 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Chen.

Every once in a while, a phenomenal talent appears in our midst.

Rising star, 15 year old Anna Da Silva Chen, is a fantastic example, winning the 2011 Kendall National Violin Competition amidst tough competition. You can witness Anna’s unbelievable talent and dedication at the Kendall School of Arts on March 18.

H

i Anna. Tell us about yourself...

I’m 15 years old. I was born in Sydney, and later I moved to Wollongong (when I was 6). My parents are of different nationalities; my father is Chinese, and my mother is Portuguese. I have a younger brother who is 7. I enjoy playing the violin greatly, and I also enjoy sports and art.

How did you first get started playing the violin?

I started learning the violin and piano at the age of 8, after participating in Childhood Music Education classes at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music. A few months later, I had a desire to play violin more than the piano, because of how enjoyable it was to play and how beautiful it sounded.

My first violin teacher, Sarah Hindson, encouraged me to perform to audiences at the very beginning of my learning period, and I remember performing in monthly concerts at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music. The concerts were named Saturday at the Con. My father also supported my playing greatly; he loves music for the violin and had bought sheet music for many pieces by Bach, Paganini and Sarasate when I was showing significant signs of improvement. I also looked up to great violinists such as Yehudi Menuhin and Jascha Heifetz.

I believe you study at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. What do you most enjoy about attending school there?

In fact, I go there every Saturday for the Open Academy Rising Stars. It’s such a great program; I’m able to meet a lot of new, wonderful people

and be surrounded by exceptional musicians.

I’ve made many great friends studying there.

It provides a worthwhile learning experience, with music skills classes, advanced seminars and chamber group tutoring.

I started studying at Sydney Distance Education High School, which is schooling at home in Year 8, since travelling to Sydney twice a week for lessons can be time draining. I can manage my time more flexibly now, and the curriculum is great.

Congratulations on your recent win in the Kendall National Violin Competition. How did you find out about the competition – and is this the first time you’ve competed in this particular event?

Thank you! I had known about the competition since I was around 10 or 11 … and I’ve always been aware of competitions like these, of course, as it gives me an opportunity to have a great experience and enjoy myself.

It was the second time I competed in it, and I’d like to take this chance to thank my teacher Mr Robin Wilson; I owe a great deal to his dedicated teaching.

What was involved with you performing in the competition?

I had first submitted an audition CD, and I am not completely sure how many other people did.

But in the last stage I prepared a recital program that lasted around 45 minutes, which consisted of the Adagio and Presto from the Sonata No. 1 in G Minor by Bach, Sonata No. 1 by Saint-Saens, Abinu Malkenu by an Australian composer Mirrie Hill, and Tzigane by Ravel.

In the semi-finals I competed against 7

violinists, and in the finals, 3. Of course, it was very nerve wracking, but just the opportunity to perform to a supportive audience was fantastic. I had a wonderful time in Kendall.

As a result of your win, you’ll be playing as a part of a recital tour. What are the towns and dates you’ll be playing?

I’ll be playing on Saturday 17 March in Nambucca, Sunday 18 March in the Kendall School of Arts and Wednesday 21 March in the Manors of Mosman, Sydney. I’m very much looking forward to this.

You have a long list of awards and competition wins under your belt for someone so young. What are some of the other awards you’ve won that make you proud?

• I won the 2MBS-FM and National MBS-FM Young Performers Award in last November; it was a different experience though, because you perform to the audience under the studio sound recording circumstances.

• The National Youth Concerto Competition is always something I’ll be proud of winning. I just really enjoyed it, which was the important thing. The orchestra was so lovely to play with, and the people there were very passionate and supportive.

• Participating in the string finals of last year’s ABC Young Performers Award is another wonderful experience I had. The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra was exceptional, and the ability to play with them was otherworldly.

• Another memorable event was the KPO NSW Secondary Schools Concerto Competition, where I had won the junior section and The Alf & Pearl Memorial Award for Performance Excellence in the Sydney Eisteddfod.

• I have been accepted for participating in The Menuhin International Violin Competition in April this year in Beijing, and I’m extremely excited.

What is your favourite piece of music to play (or a few favourites) – and why do you like them so much?

I have a few favourites: Tzigane by Ravel, Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso by SaintSaens, Poeme by Chausson, and Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D, to name a few …

But at the top of my list is Elgar’s Violin Concerto in B Minor. It differs from other great Violin Concertos by Mendelssohn or Bruch, which gives you an instant feeling of attachment. In fact, when I first heard Elgar’s Violin Concerto, it grabbed me, leaving me with an indescribable

sensation and making me want know more about the monstrous work. Later, I found that Elgar had dedicated the concerto to Fritz Kreisler and that it carries a Spanish inscription of: ‘Here is enshrined the soul of ...’ The soul of one of Elgar’s good female friends, perhaps. The complexity of the composition is blended with a sea of emotion and wonderful lyrical themes. The thick texture of Elgar’s orchestration brings out suspense and the rhapsodic mood, which raises the indefinite wonder of how it would end and why …

This is a part of why I love the work. I strongly recommend others to listen to it. My all-time favourite recording is the one played by Yehudi Menuhin in 1937 when he was 16 – the orchestra conducted by Elgar himself.

What is the most challenging piece of music you’ve ever played?

As mentioned before, I would say Elgar’s Violin Concerto. I’m learning it at the moment, and it requires a very deep understanding musically and great technique. It is also very long – most probably the longest concerto written for the violin yet.

How many hours a week do you spend practising the violin?

Altogether in a week, about 20 - 25 hours ...

Some days more; some less.

Is it hard balancing school work, performing, friends, family and other hobbies?

I don’t find it extremely hard any more, thanks to Distance Education. It’s all about balance, priority and managing time effectively. Things are a little tighter at the moment, because of auditions for more competitions, but it’s enjoyable and I like having goals to achieve. I’ve made a lot of friends through playing the violin, so I’m really grateful for that.

What is your dream ... what would you like to do when you finish studying?

I would love to be a professional soloist, which is my first choice. But I’d also like to be a chamber musician, orchestra player or teacher – anything involving music!

Thanks Anna.

The Kendall National Violin Competition 2012 winner’s recital with Anna Da Silva Chen and piano accompanist Jeanell Carrigan will be held on Sunday, March 18, 2012 at Kendall School of Arts at 2pm. Tickets are available through Mavis Barnes on 6559 4339.

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The cake was absolutely perfect.

It looked amazing and tasted just as good.

The perfect venue.

Overlooking beautiful Rainbow Beach, with breathtaking views all the way up to Lighthouse Beach, the Wauchope Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club is the perfect venue for weddings and all types of functions, including birthdays, corporate functions, cocktail nights, and Christmas parties.

Wauchope Bonny Hills Surf Life Saving Club is a fully licensed venue, with a function room capable of seating up to 160 comfortably. Our well trained bar staff hold the necessary RSA to ensure your wedding or function is an event to remember, and we are proud to support and stock local wines from the Hastings area, which are available at reasonable prices.

The Surf Life Saving Club function room includes new furniture of round tables, each seating 10 people and rattan chairs, to complement your desired table setting. All your necessary linen, including tablecloths and bridal valance are included, that will suit the bridal table, cake table, wishing well or lolly bar tables.

Packages range from $85 to $160 per person, and include twocourse meal and canapes, a five-hour standard beverage package, white or black chair covers, with your choice of coloured sash (over 80 colours to choose from), bridal table skirting and table centrepiece, Bali flags for the deck, decorated wishing well and an easel for seating plan display.

We can tailor your package to suit your style, taste and budget, and we understand that you will want to create your own special day, so we are more than happy to offer you the unique ability to select the services and decorations of your choice.

Personalised service.

Smooch Cakes owner, Donna Clarke, prides herself on providing you with a very personal service, with an individually designed wedding cake detailed specifically to your requirements. No two designs are the same, which makes your cake truly special.

“I met the lovely bride, Amy, on a number of occasions in the months leading up to the wedding,” Donna said, “and we spent time together viewing photographs of different styles of cake.

Amy was clearly drawn to an elongated style, so I designed a tall cake which tied in with her flowers, the ice blue colour of her bridesmaids’ dress and details on her invitations.

“A romantic wedding cake was the result, with a single, handmade rose featured on the cake, along with piping and ribbons. The cake was placed on a simple white stand, which added to the overall elegance of the cake.”

“The cake was absolutely perfect. It looked amazing and tasted just as good. You have such an eye for detail and vision.” – Amy. Smooch Cakes is a member of the Australian Bridal Industry Academy, which new brides recognise as a measure of quality.

To arrange your appointment, visit our new website; www.smoochcakes.com.au.

Fantastic for weddings.

Pose It! is a standalone, old school photo booth equipped with the latest in digital technology. Grab a friend, jump in, close the curtain and choose from the feature options – colour or black and white – fix your do – and Pose It! Photo booths can be hired for 3 - 4 hours and give your guests access to unlimited photo prints. The booth includes a few funky little extra features that you can pick from before it starts snapping away. Pose It! offers a really fun and memorable experience, ensuring there is no lull at your event. With photographic records that your guests will keep forever. The booth also comes with a black leather dry mount album along with gold and silver pens – the perfect guest-book! The idea is that our attendant places one photo-strip in the guestbook, with a personal message from your guest. (see page 52 for example) Also, your guests get to take home the other identical photo-strip, with a magnet for themselves. Keep an eye out for packages, deals and discounts on our website and Facebook. Simply call 0414 428 867, or email your enquiry to: info@poseit.com.au Facebook page www.facebook.com/ poseitphotobooths or our website: www.poseit.com.au

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Glasshouse Flowers.

Wedding Perfection.

Looking for a one-stop wedding shop? Look no further than Wedding Perfection!

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We have some great packages available, ow did you come up with the offering flexibility and affordability. Some of idea to start your wedding the current packages include our most popular hire and decoration business, ‘Create your Ceremony’ (see in store for details).

Wedding Perfection?

Other packages include: Indoor Packages starting My husband Geoff and I got married three and from $5.50 per head, Seating Plan package, Lolly a half years ago in Port Macquarie. I was looking Buffet package (my favourite thing to create at everywhere for a one-stop wedding shop, where the moment!) Of course, we can create your very I could purchase all the extra little bits and pieces own individual package, with all the inclusions that we wanted to have at our wedding – and you wish to have at your wedding. at a reasonable price. After looking everywhere, Tell us about the displays and items available I ended up having to drive down to the Central for viewing at the shopfront in Bellbowrie Coast to a store.

Park. How does this benefit the bride-to-be?

This is what gave me the idea to bring a oneNinety per cent of our decorations are on stop wedding shop to Port Macquarie. We then display or easily accessible, in order for us to started our business at home, hiring out chair show you what is available. Sometimes it’s hard covers and sashes, creating centrepieces and to picture something without actually having it selling a small range of wedding accessories. in front of you, and nothing beats being able to After the business became more in demand, my see the accessories and colours with your own husband couldn’t look at any more flowers in his eyes. This would have to be the number one shed, or white material and draping taking over benefit of the Wedding Perfection shop. his cupboard space! This is when we A lot of brides are looking at things decided to start my original dream online and are never really sure of of the Wedding Perfection Shop what they are going to end up front. test “One of the grea es getting. Wedding Perfection What are some of the id Br e things th ding stocks everything the modern services you provide? love about Wed ing Perfection is be to bride is looking for, from guest • Free consultations able to come in e favour boxes to guest books • Decorations; centrepieces, se d an the shop and garters, and pricing is chair covers and sashes, everything on display” comparable to anything you will ceiling draping, backdrops, find online. theming and so much more.

If you are looking for something • Personally tailored packages to suit unique and aren’t sure where to find it your needs and budget or would like to compare pricing, just ask us!

• Wedding accessories for sale Wedding Perfection provides a retail outlet for a • Chocolates and sweets for guest favours number of wedding suppliers in Australia, and • Helium balloons ordering items with Wedding Perfection will cut What will brides enjoy about planning out your shipping costs. their wedding theme and decorations with What are some other extras that Wedding Wedding Perfection?

Perfection can offer?

One of the greatest things the brides love Centrepiece creation and table setups – about Wedding Perfection is being able to come Wedding Perfection offers brides the opportunity into the shop and see everything on display. They to see their table decorations before their can play around with the decorations and find wedding day. Choose from our endless selection something to suit their taste and style. The bride of beautiful vases and the latest decorations can make an appointment for a consultation with from the most modern wedding suppliers. Come myself or one of the team at Wedding Perfection, into Wedding Perfection today to place your to ensure that she has our full attention. We have personalised centrepiece creation on the table, numerous wedding magazines, with seating area add your colour sash to the chairs provided, and for the bride to sit down with her bridesmaids see it for yourself. Wedding Perfection provides and family to look for ideas etc. All consultations quality products and service at an affordable are free of charge. price.

What are some of the packages you have Thanks Jill. available?

At Glasshouse Flowers, our team of talented floral designers will work with you, from the initial consultation right through to your big day, to create gorgeous flowers for your wedding. Whether it is a small, private party or an extravagant celebration, we look forward to being a part of your special day.

Fresh flowers are the perfect way to show off your style and add that finishing touch. We understand that everyone has their own style and this should be reflected in not just your flowers, but every aspect of your wedding. On the day, we will hand deliver your bouquets and buttonholes and set up your ceremony and reception arrangements at your venues Each wedding we do is unique in style, and whether you bring in your own ideas or look through our portfolios, we can help you to find something to suit you and your partner perfectly. Check out our fabulous photo gallery at www.glasshouseflowers.com.au We have fantastic new wedding packages available to choose from, or we can create a package tailor-made to suit your individual needs.

We’d love to welcome you in to the store for an obligation free quote, and we have appointments available weekdays, evenings and Saturdays.

When you come in for a consultation, some of

the things we will discuss are: which flowers are in season (check out our availability chart online), which style of bouquet will complement your dress and what colours and design will suit your theme.

The most important thing is to choose something that suits your personality!

We are also bringing new services to Port Macquarie Weddings this year, including a variety of Wishing Trees, Moroccan Vases for ‘Candy Bars’ and stunning candles. Glasshouse Flowers will have gorgeous bouquets and centrepieces on display at the Mid North Coast Bridal Expo on Sunday 27 May.

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Waters Edge Wedding.

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What makes Waters Edge Boutique Hotel the perfect location for wedding ceremonies and receptions? With absolute waterfrontage, there is no better back drop for a wedding ceremony or reception. Beautiful gardens and views of the Hastings River provide the perfect location for photography and provide a magical atmosphere for the couple and their guests.

With 61 rooms in the hotel, the guests are able to fully enjoy themselves at the wedding and reception, with their accommodation only moments away from the celebrations. With a dedicated functions team, the needs of guests are catered to with the upmost of care.

How do you cater for the bride and groom to make their special event one to remember? We understand that each couple is different, and we happily cater to their individual needs, from the layout of the room to the meals and beverages served. We provide the bride and groom with a luxurious riverfront room for the night of their wedding,

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with special touches such as chocolates and champagne added to make their stay extra special. The bride or groom is always welcome to prepare themselves for their special day with us at the hotel, with early access to their bridal room.

We can cater for their wedding ceremony all the way through to the wedding reception, including providing accommodation for the bridal party and wedding guests, making our facilities a one stop location for all aspects of their celebrations.

What does your basic wedding package include? Our wedding ceremony package includes the use of our beautiful riverfront gardens, red carpet and table and chairs for signing of the registry. Included in our wedding reception packages is exclusive use of areas within the hotel, access to the hotel for photography and full table linens, including table skirtings. Our dedicated professional functions team provide full table service during the reception, allowing guests

From photographers to florists to wedding planners, we are there to make our clients’ day truly one to remember. every opportunity to enjoy themselves.

Tell us about the extensive menu and catering options. Our award winning head chef and team have created and will assist in tailoring a wide variety of menu options, from casual cocktail style to a formal three-course banquet. Our menus are able to be tailored to suit each couple’s individual style and taste.

How many people can Waters Edge Boutique Hotel accommodate when it comes to weddings and functions? Waters Edge can cater for a large variety of groups at several function venues within the hotel, from an intimate dinner for 2, to a wedding banquet for 100. Based on your expected

guest list, we are able to suggest the best location within the hotel for you, to provide ample space and leave you feeling relaxed knowing your guests will be comfortable.

What other extras can you help with or provide, such as photography or entertainment? We understand that planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and we are always willing to recommend service providers or work alongside the clients’ suppliers to help with the smooth and successful running of their special day. From photographers to florists to wedding planners, we are there to make our clients’ day truly one to remember.

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We guarantee your flowers will look exquisite for the entire day and night.

Elegant & Stylish.

At Touchwood Flowers, Marilyn and Ashley are the wedding flower and function specialists, with over 50 years’ combined experience and hundreds of beautiful weddings to their credit.

You can relax and enjoy your private consultation, safe in the knowledge that on your wedding day your stunning bouquets of choice will be presented in the best quality ßowers, constructed by specialty bridal ßorists and delivered to your choice of destination on time. The Touchwood Flowers team can produce beautiful concepts for an intimate affair of 20, to a lavish celebration of 500.

As well as creating the perfect ßoral designs for you that mirror your personality and taste − we guarantee your ßowers will look exquisite for the entire day and night. We also offer a complimentary set up service of your ßower arrangements at both the church and reception venues. As an added convenience,

Marilyn and Ashley are consulting with brides locally, Australia wide and internationally, with their online wedding gallery at www. touchwoodßowers.com.au enabling brides to plan and organise their weddings in Port Macquarie, from wherever they are based.

DonÕt risk disappointments; call or email to make an appointment for your obligation free quotation.

We would love to hear from you!

Holly Kennington and Mitch DaleyÕs beautiful surprise wedding on Saturday 14 January 2012, held at Waters Edge Boutique Hotel in Port Macquarie.

Holly chose a gorgeous summer bouquet of Blue Hydrangea, mauve and champagne roses, pale pink spray roses, white Bouvardia and soft Dusty Miller foliage, Þnished with cream lace and diamante buckle trim.

Bella Rose Collections is a name synonymous with elegant bridal gowns and stylish eveningwear, and they are proud to showcase labels for both men and women at their premier emporium located at 44 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie.

When you visit their stunning showroom, you are treated to hundreds of the latest styles in wedding and formal attire for both men and women from the best designers and labels Australia has to offer.

YouÕll Þnd two ßoors dedicated to outÞtting brides and their attendants and also debutantes, ßower-girl dresses, racewear, formals and eveningwear. Their speciality is still quality designer gowns, carefully selected from leading bridal houses due to the highest quality of workmanship and cutting edge in design, with a large selection

of gowns to suit all sizes and budgets. Bella Rose Collections is proud to be stockists of gowns from Essense of Australia, Ella Bridal, Jean Fox, Sylvia Rose, Only You, Valencia Bridal, Brides Desire and most recently, Alfred Angelo.

The men are not forgotten either, with their dedicated menswear section Ð BR Collections for Men. They stock the Dress Circle range of menÕs suits and accessories for sale and hire, not only for the wedding party, but also for other occasions which call to dress up Ð race days, school formals, black-tie balls and even business attire.

Bella Rose Collections are the complete bridal store, and they invite you to come and visit their new showroom located at 44 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie to let their dedicated staff help you Þnd the perfect gown, suit and accessories for any formal occasion.

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“As a mobile consultant, I come to you, making it more convenient to fit into your busy schedule.”

great ideas for your

Say Cheesecake.

With your special day in mind, we have developed a range of cakes with stunning design, delectable taste and unbeatable value for money. Our range includes: White Cherry - A three tiered mudcake, decorated in a white ganache and topped with a mountain of white chocolate curls and maraschino cherries.

Ascot - A spectacular modern design of layered mudcake, decorated in a white chocolate ganache and finished with white silk flowers.

Pretty in Pink - A rich, moist two tiered chocolate mudcake covered in pastel pink chocolate ganache and decorated with full pink roses on top.

True Love’s Kiss - An enticing four tiered chocolate mudcake, covered in a semi rough textured chocolate ganache, decorated with red roses.

Your Personal Travel Manager Working in travel is not just a job; to me it’s a professional career choice. I’m available to my clients 7 days a week, with the flexibility to organise itineraries outside of normal office hours. With integrity, passion and excellence in service, my purpose in business is to enrich your life through travel. In addition to professionalism and experience, I aim to bring a special verve and attention to my ongoing relationships with my clients and those they recommend.

As a mobile consultant, I come to you, making it more convenient to fit into your busy schedule, whether it is at your home, workplace or closest coffee shop – even at school or daycare.

TravelManagers Australia is a network of Personal Travel Managers who provide clients with the highest level of service and in depth knowledge of the industry.

When working with a Personal Travel Manager, you can be confident you will get the travel service you want, when and where you need it, ensuring a fantastic travel experience.

Natasha Schurink. Your Personal Travel Manager 0424 043 325 – natashas@travelmanagers.com.au

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With three tier cakes starting from $99, visit The Cheesecake Shop, 11/4 Bay St, Port Macquarie for more information.

The perfect guest book, comes with silver and gold pen. Your guests have their photos taken in the booth and picture placed straight into the album.

Product by Pose it! photo booths.

Love is in the air at TG’s.

Absolute Waterfront Weddings.

What better way to tie the knot than at a beautiful waterfront resort, surrounded by your closest friends, great food, wine, fun and festivity.

From an intimate garden ceremony overlooking Pelican Bay, to a reception in one of our private wedding venues, Quality Resort Sails has the setting and expertise to ensure your wedding day is a celebration you will cherish forever.

Our professional wedding team will tailor a reception package to suit your expectations and budget. Our staff offer a complete,

personalised service, so every detail is taken care of, allowing you to experience the excitement and happiness of your day.

Your wedding guests can also take advantage of the Resort's facilities, including 83 rooms with garden or water views, pool, spas, steam rooms, tennis courts and waterfront restaurant. Special wedding accommodation rates are available on request.

For more information, please contact us directly on: Phone: (02) 6589 5166 Email: weddings@sailsresort.com.au

Love is in this air this February and as Port Macquarie enjoys the final days of summer, the Town Green Inn is dishing up the very ingredients incumbent of a little romance: beautiful views, attentive service, delicious seasonal produce, served with a drop suitable for the ‘love-liest’ of celebrations or intimate affair.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the Town Green Inn is providing a 2-course dinner selection for couples, with complimentary chocolates served as the sun sets romantically over the town’s iconic Town Green and Hastings River. Diners looking for an intimate setting to enjoy dinner with a loved one should look no further than the Town Green Inn, where they will enjoy an exquisite sunset, friendly and personalised service, a delicious meal and bottle of wine from our extensive beverage menu.

This February, the Town Green Inn will also launch their tailored wedding reception packages for the exclusive Rafters Room.

Wedding packages have been specifically tailored to ensure that every bride and groom can sit back, relax and celebrate their big day in style and comfort. With both sit down and canapé style menus on offer, including extensive beverage packages and personalised theming, our functions manager will ensure the Town Green Inn makes your big day one your guests will be talking about for years to come.

The Town Green Inn Venue Manager, Charlie Redmond said; “This month, we are all loved up at the Town Green Inn. Our Valentine’s Day special will provide an enjoyable setting for any couples looking to grab a relaxed yet intimate bite to eat.”

The exclusive Rafters Room on the first floor of the Town Green Inn provides some of the best views in town, coupled with an outdoor appeal.

“The views, spacious layout, personalised packages and attention to detail is what makes our wedding packages most appealing to soon to be brides,” continued Charlie. “Our focus lies firmly on ensuring our clients’ big day is one to remember.”

more info.

For more information, simply visit www.towngreeninn.com.au or call; Charlie Redmond on (02) 6580 7888.

QUALITY RESORT SAILS waterfront weddings...

Contact our wedding team to book your

appointment today!

QUALITY RESORT SAILS 20 PARK STREET, PORT MACQUARIE

6589 5166

E | events@sailsresort.com.au F | facebook.com/Quality.Sails.Entertainment

WEDDING PACKAGE AVAILABLE ONLINE | sailsresort.com.au greater port macquarie focus 53

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A showcase of the high quality of services available within our local area.

One of a kind bouquet 2012 Bridal Expo

Wedding Inspirations If you have a special event coming up in your life, why not contact Wedding Inspirations for your obligation free consultation!

Wedding Inspirations is a local family owned business with over 7 years’ experience. We pride ourselves on offering our professional, friendly and personalised services for weddings and other special events. Wedding Inspirations covers the area from Kempsey to Foster. Wedding Inspirations can provide anything you may require for your special event, such as: ceiling and room draping, chair covers and a wide variety of sashes, fairy lights, LED glass ball, wishing well, bonbonniere gifts, chocolates and a large selection of centrepieces. We provide wedding and reception packages, including for your outdoor ceremony. Let us personalise a package to suit your every need.

No function is too big or too small. Wedding Inspirations also manages the hiring of the Tacking Point Surf Club hall.

Please don’t hesitate to view our website: www.weddinginspirations.net.au or contact Kellie on 0428 841 877 for your obligation free consultation.

We look forward to helping you create your special day.

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With over 10 years’ experience, Airlie at Wauchope Colonial Florist has enjoyed catering and designing

You are invited to the annual Mid North Coast Bridal Expo – the largest and most informative expo held on the Mid North Coast. For one special Sunday in May, the Auditorium at Panthers Port Macquarie is transformed into a wedding wonderland that exudes an unrivalled atmosphere, perfect for such an event. With an array of wedding experts on hand, a great fashion parade and the chance to win thousands of dollars in prizes, the Mid North Coast Bridal Expo is a must-visit for those planning the wedding of their dreams!

many floral arrangements for many special events,

The Mid North Coast Bridal Expo is the ultimate planning resource, where you can speak directly with the coast's leading wedding providers, all in one location. With professionals from Forster to Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour and from towns in between, the expo is a showcase of the high quality of services available within our local area. Offering exciting and informative displays, brides and grooms-to-be will meet a huge range of suppliers eager to discuss reception venues, photography, gowns for brides and bridesmaids, formal wear for grooms, decorations, flowers, cakes, invitations and every aspect of your most important day.

Macquarie, Wauchope, Laurieton, Camden Haven and

The highly anticipated fashion parade at 1pm will showcase cutting-edge design, not only for the bride, but the entire wedding party – bridesmaids, mother of the bride, attendants and of course, the groom!

Call us, or come in today and let us to fulfil your special

Prices: $8 adult; $4 child; $4 concession. A portion of door proceeds go towards a nominated charity.

small and large – and prides herself on designing that ‘one of a kind bouquet’ for your wedding day ...

Wauchope Colonial Florist cater for all wedding situations, from bridal bouquets to table and church arrangements, buttonholes and corsages, hair pieces, cake decorations, car ribbons, helium balloons and balloon packages.

Deliveries throughout the Hastings, including: Port surrounding areas.

Airlie can assist with your choice of your favourite flowers, colour preference and budget. Careful consideration then goes into every arrangement, ensuring the freshest flowers are used.

Colonial Florist is a member of both Interflora and Petals and has supplied you with links below to view the many styles of arrangements you can select from. request.

Airlie can assist with your choice of your favourite flowers, colour preference and budget.

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Lovely Locks Tell us about Lovely Locks. Here at Lovely Locks, our aim is to provide our clients an escape – the best of both hair and beauty in the one peaceful and relaxing environment. Lovely Locks brings you the famous city service and match it with the wonderful country hospitality. Check out our website and Facebook page for our monthly specials and Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day packages.

You cover both hair and beauty, don’t you?

Khym: I look after all beauty needs, from waxing to nails, spray tanning and massage, manicure/pedicure; also on offer are eyelash extensions and airbrushing make-up for that special event or night out with the girls.

Lucy: the girls and I are there to cater for all your hairdressing needs, with products from both Redken and GHD. Tell us about your bridal packages?

We offer both beauty and hair packages together; where we can either come to you on the day or look after you in the salon. For the bride’s hair, we offer a full trial, shampoo and blow-wave the day before the wedding and of course hair on the day. For make-up we provie a full trial and airbrushing make-up on the day, including falsh eyelashes. All of our wedding packages also include champagne and nibbles for you and your bridal party, creating a fun and relaxing start to the day for all. Come in and see us today for a free personalized consultation and quote!

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SilverSpoon Catering Silverspoon Catering & Events is the premier catering company in the Hastings Region. Renowned for its fresh produce, delicious menu designs and the ‘x factor’ service.

This vibrant company, going into its eighth year of operation, recently celebrated a milestone of 450 events, ranging from

Makeup by Sharon Brock Leading makeup artist, Sharon Brock in Port Macquarie, can create any look for your special occasion ... it may be sultry, smokey eyes, 1920s glamour camouflage, or maybe a natural look for a beach wedding.

Sharon is constantly updating makeup techniques and is spending time researching the latest looks for bridal and formal occasions in 2012. She uses Artilier makeup, made for the professional makeup artist and specially designed for photography; once applied, it will last throughout the ceremony and reception.

Individual lashes are applied at no extra cost, to finish the total look. A range of bridal/formal packages are available to cater for the whole bridal party and mother of the bride.

Courtney: “I had the pleasure of Sharon doing my makeup for my wedding day. She came to me and was nothing less than professional throughout the service. My makeup was exactly how I planned it to look – she listened to exactly what I wanted and created it perfectly. My makeup looked the same at the end of the reception as it did earlier in the day. I have no hesitation recommending Sharon to any bride who wants perfectly applied makeup.”

corporate launches, birthday celebrations, fashion shows, race days,

Beautiful Cakes

art exhibitions and openings, engagement parties, Christmas parties and of course, elegant wedding celebrations.

The Cake Establishment has one aim and that is to make your event wonderfully fabulous.

Providing a positive customer experience, we will work with you to design a cake which perfectly compliments your special event and reflects its theme and style. From traditional cakes to cupcake towers or even to the more modern cakes, The Cake Establishment will not only make it look beautiful but taste great too.

The Cake Establishment offers cakes for any other special occasions. Christenings, birthdays, baby showers, kitchen teas etc. Or why not compliment a cake with matching cookie favours or cupcakes.

Cake Decorating classes are also on offer for the cake decorating enthusiast. For class dates and times contact The Cake Establishment or follow us on Facebook.

If you are after a cake that will impress your guests, then call The Cake Establishment today.

Find us on Facebook or call Yvonne 0414 185 239.

The team at SilverSpoon takes pleasure in tailor making menus to suit your event, with their most popular menu designs featured in their extensive canapé selection – an array of bite size delicacies to tempt the taste buds. Brigid, Steve, Lauren and the dedicated team work together to hand-make each piece of the delicious menu design. Select from scrumptious canapés made from local King Prawns and Hastings River oysters, or treat yourself to a miniature sticky date pudding with a drizzle of rich butterscotch sauce.

From elegant cocktail receptions to a Mediterranean style buffet, SilverSpoon has the solution to your function and event catering needs.

SilverSpoon can cater at any venue of your choice, including private homes and gardens, businesses, vineyards, waterfront surf clubs and marquees. SilverSpoon’s dedication to excellence and individuality has seen this local company become a fixture on the cuisine circuit.

Celebrate in style with SilverSpoon Catering & Events. View our menus online at www.silverspooncatering.com.au

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GREAT PRIZES! OVER $3,000 WORTH OF PRIZES TO BE WON! FAMILY PRIZES 1st Prize 2nd Prize 3rd Prize 4th Prize

• QLD family holiday, 2 nights, breakfast + $100 fuel voucher • $500 Shopping Voucher at Settlement City • $250 Shopping Voucher at Settlement City • $50 Dinner Voucher at Bay Street Brassiere, Port Panthers

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focusinterview.

Legendary British group The Searchers have been wowing audiences for the past five decades, starting with their very first hit, Sweets for My Sweet, in 1963.

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T

he group will present their 50th anniversary show at the Glasshouse in Port Macquarie this month, and bassist Frank Allen tells us why we shouldn’t miss the experience ...

In the past fifty years, the band must have witnessed some massive changes in terms of visiting Australia and also in the music industry. What do you think has changed the most?

Australia has very much grown up as a country. We first came over in ’64, and it was early days for television, the pubs still shut early, the Opera House was still being built – but we still loved it. I’ve seen the country grow so much, and Australia is one of our international centres now. It’s amazing how Australia’s come of age!

The music business has changed a lot, because it’s much more professional now. Every generation of musicians learns from the generation before – we learn from the music, the mannerisms ... we take our knowledge from the idols of the time, and each generation takes it one step further.

The kids coming through these days perform so incredibly well and are so professional ... we didn’t really have an ‘act’ back in those early days, or a concept; we didn’t really push ourselves too much.

We see the new kids these days, and they do all this; they have the

moves – like Beyoncé – and have great voices too. I don’t approve of the miming on stage these days ... our shows have to be live – but all credit to the kids these days, because they can certainly perform.

Over the years, The Searchers have had a few line up changes.

When did you actually join, and how did that actually come about?

I was the first line up change actually, for the professional band.

The band turned professional in ’62, which is why this is our 50th anniversary year. In ’63 the band started with John, Chris, Mike and Tony; I’d met them at the beginning of ’63 in Hamburg before The Searchers ever started recording. I’d been with a band that had been recording – we’d had about 6 singles out at that time – a very well respected band called Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers, which was a serious R&B band.

The Searchers had just stopped being a semi-pro outfit and were taking their first steps. I loved the band and got on really well with them, and 6 months later they had the chance to record for themselves and their first record, Sweets for my Sweet, shot to number one. They went on with Sugar and Spice, Needles and Pins, Don’t Throw your Love Away and all the other hits.

By mid-1964, the band members hadn’t been getting on with Tony Jackson. I’d been hanging around with the band and enjoying

their reflected glory, going to see their shows and watching in awe, and suddenly Tony was leaving to be a solo act. They needed a bass player, and they asked me.

So on August 3, 1964, I joined The Searchers, and about one month later I came out to Australia for the very first time.

By the time we came out to Australia, we had our new record, When You Walk in the Room released, which was the first one I played on – and I was lucky to share a lead vocal on that one as well. It was the biggest hit we ever had in Australia – it went to number one!

When You Walk in the Room is definitely my favourite hit ...

That’s fantastic. It’s actually mine too, and not just because I was involved with it. I also loved Sweets for My Sweet, which I had nothing to do with. But, When You Walk in the Room is such a classic, direct Pop song; it’s got an incredibly catchy tune, it has great lyrics, and it has that incredible guitar sound – which makes the song really shine.

The whole ‘Liverpool phenomenon’ – what’s your take on that? Why have so many great bands, including The Searchers, had their origins in Liverpool? Is there something in the water over there?

Well ... it may have something to do with the water, because Liverpool is a sea port. It’s a very, very rough town full of character, as sea ports do tend to be. There was a lot of influence from America, as there were a lot of American records and instruments imported there that were impossible to get in the rest of the UK. I don’t know how Liverpool got to become such an insular place, but it’s a big town that’s also like a village.

As far as the people of Liverpool are concerned, no one outside of Liverpool really counts for much. Liverpool is everything! The town has a character that’s not like any place else in the UK – in that way, I guess it was a bit of a closed community. They had their own musical community as well.

When I travelled to Hamburg for the first time, it was the first time I realised there were all these bands doing the clubs – and there was nothing like it in the south.

They all knew each other, they shared the same stage, they had their own chart list of favourite bands. It was really a kind of weird thing to see from the outside – an also to be a part of.

What do you think was the band’s best decade musically – or do you think the best is still yet to come?

My best time is on stage, whenever that is. I certainly think one of the best times is now, because we’ve grown up as people and we know how to conduct a show and get the best out of an audience.

I would love to go back and experience those hit days again, because to be quite honest, I was far too young to really appreciate what was happening and to realise how important it was. And also to enjoy myself ... (laughs).

I was a teetotaller until I was in my 40s, and I wasn’t loose enough to take full advantage and really enjoy all the mad things that young people used to do. So, that probably could have been the best time of my life – it was certainly the most exciting, travelling to other countries and producing hit records.

But, we’ve had great times and bigger shows since. In 1989 at Wembley Stadium with Cliff Richard, we had two days with 80,000 people each day – we never had that in the ‘60s. It was fantastic!

In 1990-91, we did the Royal Variety Show and were introduced to the Queen. This was when we thought our career was probably almost over. And when we really thought we were out of chances in 2009, we had a

In 1990-91, we did the Royal Variety Show and were introduced to the Queen.

This was when we thought our career was probably almost over. And when we really thought we were out of chances in 2009, we had a number 11 chart album, just out of nowhere! So, things happen all the time. number 11 chart album, just out of nowhere! So, things happen all the time.

The show you’re touring at the moment is about singing, a bit of reminiscing and a whole lot of entertaining ...

It’s more a history of the band in music and stories, in the main. We play the hits, but we also realise our fans know everything we recorded, so we try to fit in a lot of the album tracks, the ‘B’ sides, tell short stories about who wrote the song or about our first tour of Australia.

This may often lead into another song ... for instance, when we first toured Australia in ’64, we were headlining a show where the main support was Del Shannon, so we often throw a Del Shannon song in to reminisce about those glorious days.

In ’66 we toured with the Rolling Stones, and we got the song Take It Or Leave It from them on that tour. There are stories about most of the songs in our repertoire.

Has the travelling you’ve done and the experiences you’ve had helped you to develop new material as well?

We don’t overload the show with new material, because we’ve seen too many shows where bands indulge themselves and play their new album in its entirety, without engaging their audience. This makes the audience kind of yawn and wait for the oldies to come along. But we’ve grabbed some great songs along the way, and we very carefully intersperse them into the show where they are going to be accepted, because the audience knows we aren’t going to leave them without their old favourites for too long. We know that if they’re instantly loveable songs, if we like them, the audience will like them – so it’s not a self-indulgent thing.

How many times have you been to Australia now?

Are you looking forward to visiting again?

Far too many times to count! And yes – very much. Oh gosh ... it’s our chance to get out of the cold (laughs).

Australia is a country we’ve all grown to love very much over the years ... I know everyone tries to justify the fact

that their country is the greatest, but seriously, we love Australia very, very much indeed. We have lots of great friends there too.

Final question, and it’s a double one ... why do you think you guys have managed to stick around for 50 years, despite the fact that you’ve thought a few times yourselves that your career was probably at an end – and what keeps you ticking?

What keeps us going is our health, the enjoyment of what we’re doing and our audiences. Why we’ve been so successful is because we were part of a period that was incredibly important – it was a time of political importance, with the Kennedys and the White House; a time of economic change, with teenagers earning money for the first time; a time of social change, when sex was becoming freer; and certainly a time of musical change, because the Beatles came along and knocked all the doors down and gave everyone else their chance.

Without them, it would have been a different story entirely; every band owes an incredible debt to the Beatles.

We learned how to put on a show; when we stopped being teenage idols to an audience who would scream when we came on stage, we had to start treating them in a different way. We’ve learned that over a long period, and I think we’re very successful at it.

Thanks Frank. All the best with the tour – and happy anniversary.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

The Searchers will be playing at the Glasshouse on February 26, at 4pm. $59.00 Adult, $54.00 Concession/Group 6+ call the Box Office on 6581 8888. or visit www.glasshouse.org.au

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focustravel.

with Susie Boswell

TRLAVE LO N OND O LY M P I C S .

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N : ENGLAND uring this Northern Hemisphere summer - June, July, August 2012 - Australian visitors will no doubt be surprised to find a sandy beach incongruously sitting in the middle of central London.

Tonnes of sand are being imported to the historic heart of the British capital, creating a bespoke beach in famous Horse Guards Parade, near Trafalgar Square. It’s just one of many unique features England will boast as it hosts the 2012 Olympic Games, the temporary sandy stretch the site of the beach volleyball competition.

Elsewhere, other historic locations and buildings have been modified and adapted for the various sporting events. The games will make use of existing iconic venues including Wembley Stadium and Arena, the All England Club at Wimbledon, Lord’s cricket ground (for archery), the O2 Arena, Earls Court Exhibition Centre and - 200km away in Dorset - the world class Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy.

The Games of the 30th Olympiad take place over 17 days from Friday July 27 to Sunday August 12, when London will become the only city to host the modern games three times: previously in 1908 and 1948. The city beat off fierce bids from Paris, New York, Madrid and Moscow to win the rights.

The Olympic Stadium and Aquatic Centre are showpieces. The stadium, host of the opening and closing ceremonies and athletics events from August 3, has a capacity of 80,000 and was completed almost a year ago at a cost of close to 500 million pounds. It’s surrounded by water on three sides: spectators reach the venue via five pedestrian and traffic bridges. Among transport options are, of course, the London Underground, and the new Javelin, a high-speed train modelled on Japan’s bullet trains.

The Velodrome, pictured, is nicknamed “the Giant Pringle” for its sweeping western red

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cedar roof, reflecting the curve of the cycling track. Completed a year ago, the 6,000-seat venue won the UK’s premium prize for its design, engineering and construction.

Athletes from as many as 200 nations are aiming to qualify for the games, competing in 39 disciplines across 26 individual sports. Baseball and softball have been dropped from the games and women’s boxing added. (Golf and Rugby 7s have been added for Rio de Janeiro in 2016, with karate and squash under consideration).

For sightseeing in England and on the Continent generally, see www.raileurope.com.au and select the Special Offers tab for information on the London Pass that gives you unlimited transport for the chosen period as well as entry to more than 55 top attractions, including accelerated queues and a guidebook, and discount offers at restaurants. The site has some modest promotional discounts, seniors’ fares and a booking facility for the Eurostar Chunnel trip to Paris and its unparalleled attractions - including my favourite, the Bateaux-Mouches (Fly Boats), an absolute must. Choose an evening or dinner cruise for the best experience. The boats leave from several locations including the convenient Rive Droite side of the Pont de l’Alma (a location now infamously familiar as the site of Princess Diana’s tragic accident).

It’s not too late to plan to travel to London for the Olympics but if ever you’ve valued a travel agent’s assistance, this is the occasion. Accommodation is tight, tickets are rare and for the opening ceremony, if you can still get them, will set you back way more than your SydneyLondon return economy airfare! Getting around needs careful planning, especially for the elderly or infirm.

But … if the buzz in London is even a fraction of what it was during Sydney’s thrilling Olympics, it’s the ideal time to go - even if just for the incidental atmosphere, and despite the crowds.

Start at www.london2012.com

focustourism.

Port Macquarie Tourism Association

2012 Australian Open Waterski Titles to be held at Stoney Park over the weekend of Feb 25 and 26 .

Tour m janettehyde. warm welcome to all visitors to our region across the month of February, on behalf of the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association (GPMTA) – and indeed, everyone from our region. We hope you have a great time on your holiday. Make sure you obtain a copy of the 52+ Things To Do booklet, which outlines a vast array of activities available to make your visit all the more enjoyable – you will quickly realise that the Hastings is more than just beaches and scenery.

Operators welcomed the excellent weather in the first (and busiest) half of January, with most reporting brisk trade and ‘No Vacancy’ signs being a common sight.

For Billabong Zoo, January has been an incredible month. With the arrival of temporary resident, Khumbu the Snow Leopard, crowds have flocked to the zoo. Not only did they break their record for their biggest ever day by an incredible 60%, at the time of writing they are on track to beat last January’s trade figures by an equally impressive 50%! Congratulations goes to Mark Stone and his team at the zoo, who have worked tirelessly to turn the facility into much more than somewhere you can just ‘pat a koala’ (of course you can still do that!)

Billabong’s amazing month continued, with the recent announcement that they were one of nine businesses across the Mid North Coast to receive a grant under the State Government’s Regional Tourism Product Development Funding program. Billabong received $50,000 to fast track their planned Estuarine Crocodile Exhibit, which will offer underwater viewing and grandstand facilities for interactive keeper displays. The exhibit should be open in the last quarter of this year.

The Port Macquarie region had two other successful applicants under the funding program, with The Observatory receiving $11,000 towards expanding their ‘green’ program. On track to be carbon neutral by June of this year, the hotel currently offers guests the use of bicycles as an environmentally friendly way to view the town. Grant money will be used to enhance this program, with an iPod audio tour.

Sea Acres was the third local grant recipient, with $35,000 towards complementing existing Aboriginal Tours and education programs being

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run.

The project, titled Spirit of the Land/Welcome to Country, will be a multimedia, digital storytelling journey about the Birpai people and the iconic natural environments, parks and reserves of the Hastings region. This will be an enhancement to an emerging Aboriginal tourism product – Yun Yi Barragay: Walk With Me walks, talks and tours. To be launched by September, the project will be a partnership involving Birpai Local Aboriginal Land Council, the Powerhouse Museum (assistance with exhibition design) and Port Macquarie TAFE (digital storytelling/ multimedia). The first planning workshop will be held on 15 February – anyone interested in the project can email: janet. cohen@environment.nsw.gov.au Other events of note over the month include the 2012 Australian Open Waterski Titles to be held at Stoney Park over the weekend of Feb 25 and 26. Australia’s best slalom, trick and jump skiers take on competitors from around the world, including Japan, USA, England and New Zealand – all vying for the title.

On February 11, NRL enthusiasts can catch NRL teams Penrith Panthers and Newcastle Knights at Port Macquarie's Regional Stadium for a pre-season trial game match not to be missed. Gates open at 3.30pm, and the action starts from 4pm with CRL U/18s game. The main game kicks off at 7.30pm.

Those looking for a slightly different ‘sporting’ event, make your way to Bago Vineyards on Sunday 12 February 2012 for the 14th Annual Grape Stomping Championships, combined with the monthly Bago Vineyards ‘Jazz in the Vineyards’. This promises to be a fun day for all the family, with Australia's longest running Grape Stomping ‘The Annual Open Grape Stomping Championships’ and the ‘Media’ Grape Stomping Challenge.

The Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association is looking forward to the challenges ahead for 2012 across all sectors of the tourism industry, with January giving operators a good start upon which to build. With the continued support of Council, along with the calendar of special events, new tourism offerings and consistent marketing and promotion, we believe that our region is well placed to continue growing our tourist offering. greater port macquarie focus 63

F E B RUA RY 2012

WITH TERRI

A R I E S. MAR 21 - APR 20 Think about what you would like and be aware of why you want it, then get out of the way and let heaven help you get it. You deserve nice surprises, but need to let go of control.

Citrine shatters negative energy and attracts great things.

TAU RU S. APR 21 - MAY 21 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

CANCER.

LIBRA.

JUN 23 - JUL 23 JU

SEPT 24 - OCT 23

Financial contentment can be expected, so avoid worrying about money, as this energy will block the flow of abundance. You are good at saving for a rainy day, so relax and enjoy what you have already.

Citrine carried in your wallet attracts wealth.

L E O. JUL 24 - AUG 23 Listen to the words you offer others for guidance, as this is also how you will hear your own answers. Feelings of entrapment will soon dissipate, and you can expect a feeling of freedom and fun.

Turquoise is great for confidence.

V I RG O. AUG 24 - SEPT 23

All the hurts from the past are surfacing, so you can recognise how they have changed you. You do have the choice to become more powerful as a result of experiencing these things.

Amethyst connects us to our higher knowing and wisdom.

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Now is a perfect time to re-establish new rules to live by. You have been feeling frustrated, because you have outgrown your old beliefs and feel trapped by them instead of comforted.

Moldavite helps transform us.

Relax about the unknown, and embrace it with excitement instead of fear. Many opportunities are coming your way, so you are likely to be very busy over the next few months. Enjoy!

Ruby shatters negative thoughts.

S C O R P I O. OCT 24 - NOV 22 Lighten up your energy and laugh a little more; you are taking life far too seriously lately, and this has shattered your joy of life. Prank, play and connect with your inner child, then you will like you more.

Turquoise is a happy crystal lifting our energy.

SAG I T TA R I U S. NOV 23 - DEC 21 Stop worrying about your future finances; everything is lining up for financial freedom.

Your negative focus is seriously weighing you down, and this energy is so wasted.

Citrine attracts an abundance. Carry some in your wallet.

C A P R I C O R N. DEC 22 - JAN 20 Connect to your ‘gypsy’ energy. Lots of adventure can be expected, but it is important to embrace the unknown – and not baulk at it. Many contacts and positive experiences will cross your path.

Selenite keeps our energy clear; wear some.

AQ UA R I U S. JAN 21 - FEB 19 Don’t D ’ bite bi your tongue just to keep smooth waters. Your new cycle asks for you to be open and honouring of yourself; suppressing words will block your energy and cloud your future with insecurity.

Turquoise helps with open, loving communication.

P I S C E S. FEB 20 - MAR 20 Adventure is coming into your reality. Enjoy your journey and listen to your ‘intuition’ to avoid being in the wrong place at the wrong time. You will be bringing something back from your travels to enhance your life.

Ruby is great for protection.

focuseditorial.

from the Department Store S

February at the Hastings Co-op Happy 2012 to everyone, and a happy International Year of Cooperatives.

Would you like to be involved with the Hastings Cooperative’s Focus group?

For 95 years, the Hastings Cooperative has celebrated many years of community partnership, and the Hastings Co-op Focus Group is a NEW voluntary based community group that works with Co-op Head ofÞce on a regular basis.

The Co-op Focus Group meet bi-monthly for a morning tea meeting, where the Co-op discuss some new ideas and plans and also talks about better ways in which the Hastings Co-op can assist and improve its service to its members and community.

The group then work in a positive manner directly with the decision makers at Co-op Head OfÞce, helping them with communication, implementation and feedback on its plans. This is just one of the ways the Hastings Co-op can assist the community, and this was a positive suggestion to come out of the Co-op Community Focus Group.

If you have a group, club or organisation that would like to hold a BBQ, a cake stall, a rafße or simply host a PR exercise, the Hastings Co-op will provide you a prime position at one of our Co-op businesses.

All community groups who are wishing to fundraise are urged to call Tim Walker directly on 6588 8999 during business hours.

He understands how important it is to raise funds and public awareness and would like to make the space available for not for proÞt groups to assist with their fundraising.

FEBRUARY AT THE DEPARTMENT STORE February is fashion clearance time at The Department Store. With plenty of warm weather ahead, now is the perfect time to replenish the wardrobe at a fraction of the price in all our fashion departments.

We have 50% off our ladies, menÕs childrenÕs and infants clothing, so come in and save yourself a fortune. Whilst here, our new seasonÕs items will have started to arrive, so be one of the Þrst to preview our autumn/winter range.

Labels include: Gordon Smith, Jump, Black Apple, Wish, Rosie+Dixie, Boo Radley, Cordelia Street, Zaya and many more new

surprises. We have a stunning knitwear range from Zaket + Plover to arrive Feb/ March, so watch for this one.

Our Menswear features Thomas Cook, Back Bay, Lonsdale and a great range of knitwear and menÕs accessories. Our infant department features Le Bon, Papoose, Run Scotty Run, Max and Tilly, Thomas Cook and a great underwear and accessory selection.

DonÕt forget we stock a great selection of shoes, bags, scarves and hats, featuring all the latest trends.

After a great Christmas period, our giftware department will soon be restocked with gorgeous new lines that make browsing such a pleasure at The Department Store. While online shopping may be a convenient way to shop, nothing replaces the opportunity to touch and choose exactly what you desire and purchase immediately.

At The Department Store, staff will provide help if you need advice on home decoration to co-ordinate your particular style. We will try to match prices to be competitive, so if you have a quote on a certain item, for instance in the kitchen wear department, give us the opportunity to match that quote.

Our aim is to take care of our shareholder and customers where we can; after all, we want to be around for many years to come.

February also sees the arrival of a Telstra outlet in our store, so now customers have the convenience of talking to a Telstra expert 5½ days a week. You can pay your Telstra accounts, purchase the latest mobile phones and discuss any problems you may be experiencing with a representative, without having to leave Wauchope.

Remember, we also stock Darrell Lea chocolates and confectionery and have some great gift boxes for ValentineÕs Day and of course, will be preparing for the Easter Bunny in the coming months.

So, we look forward to welcoming you in 2012, and we will make it our upmost responsibility to take care of your shopping needs with new and exciting items at very competitive prices.

See you in Store.

Judy.

90 Horton Street Port Macquarie (02) 6583 2208

greater port macquarie focus 65

Happy to Spoil After a very busy Christmas and New Year period, Cathy at Sunshine Florist is preparing to bring beauty to customers on Valentine’s Day! Of course, red roses will be the popular choice, but Sunshine will have a studio filled with beautiful, fresh flowers on February 14, ready for our courier to surprise and delight. A single red, long stemmed rose is always a romantic tradition, plus Sunshine will have a number of arrangements and bouquets prepared and ready to take away if you prefer to deliver personally. We are happy to spoil by adding chocolates, champagne and cute soft toys to our beautiful fresh flowers.

We will be pleased to fill phone orders on Valentine’s Day, but suggest you place your order early, so as not to be disappointed.

Whether we are celebrating a new life, farewelling a dear friend, comforting a loved one or declaring our love, Cathy at Sunshine Florist will strive to please by delivering fresh flowers that are arranged with care all year round!

66 greater port macquarie focus.

Gifts can be Made to Order It’s been an exciting and very busy first six months for the girls at Chocolate Bouquets and with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, things are only going to get busier. With so much to choose from, Chocolate Bouquets are your first and only stop this Valentine’s Day. The girls have everything from roses, teddies, hampers and of course, chocolates.

If you have something in particular in mind for that someone special, let the girls know, and they will make your order to suit your needs. The girls are constantly increasing the range within the store and look after gifts for anyone and any occasion. Delivery is available, and there are gluten, nut and dairy free products available. Why not come in and check out the wide range and all the different and clever creative ways to let that special someone know you care.

focusonlove.

T F I G de i u g Silkies Lingerie & Sleepwear Phone 6583 8558

Arrangement ment from f Glasshouse use se Flo Flowers owers Phone 6584 58 8 4 2242 22 242

Chocolate Bouquets by MCK Phone 6584 0388

Love Heart Chocolates from The Block Phone 6584 4141

Sunshine Florist S Phone 6583 4234 P

Damask Candles from Glasshouse Flowers Phone 6584 2242

greater port macquarie focus 67

focusinterview.

[Hastings Valley Toy & Leisure Library]

L-R: Maureen, Wendy and Susie.

Maureen Winnall, Susie Cooper and Wendy Cooper are committee members of the Hastings Valley Toy & Leisure Library.

The library has planned a fantastic new initiative for February, called Hastings Kids Healthy Lifestyle Project – which is aiming to get kids and their families more involved with healthy eating and provide fun alternatives to sedentary activities..

W

hat exactly is the Hastings Valley Toy & Leisure Library?

The Hastings Valley Toy & Leisure Library is a volunteer-based organisation that supplies good quality toys, games and puzzles to enable children to have something fresh, different and stimulating on a regular basis. It is a place where families, grandparents, foster carers, family day care Educators and other members of the public can hire a wide range of toys at a minimal cost.

How and when was the library first established?

Hastings Valley Toy & Leisure Library has existed in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area since 1996 and is auspiced by the Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre.

What are your positions/roles within the library, and how long ago did you first become involved?

Each Toy Library branch has its own committee made up of volunteers that give up many hours of their time to organise and run each branch.

We have been involved with the Wauchope Toy Library for four years and became committee members in December 2010. We started planning the ‘Hastings Kids Healthy Lifestyle Project’ in June 2011, and Lee Grigg also joined the Committee in September 2011 to help implement the Project.

What kinds of products do you have available for people to borrow?

Each branch has a selection of toys for children from 6 months to 6 years of age. Examples of the toys include farm and vehicle sets, puppets, baby activity tables, walkers, construction toys, board games, puzzles, musical instruments, dolls houses and so on. There are too many to list here! We also have a wide variety of outside and transport toys, like roller coasters, climbing frames, cozy coupe cars, trikes, scooters, basketball hoops and sand and water play.

Please tell us about the ‘Hastings Kids

68 greater port macquarie focus.

Healthy Lifestyle Project’ you have planned for February – what’s involved with this project?

Hastings Valley Toy & Leisure Library Wauchope received a grant from Port MacquarieHastings Council’s ‘Community Grants Program’ to conduct the ‘Hastings Kids Healthy Lifestyle Project’. The project will enhance the current facilities and help promote the Toy Library to wider socioeconomic groups by promoting healthy lifestyles and education.

The project’s aim is to help families, grandparents, playgroups and childcare services to encourage children to develop healthy, active lifestyle skills and habits that will keep them fit and healthy throughout their lives − and to pass this knowledge on to future generations.

How will you implement this project?

The volunteers from the Toy Library will be at a number of community events during 2012 to answer any questions and to also hand out free promotional bags with a range of healthy lifestyle educational information. We have been given free information and educational pamphlets and products from Asthma Foundation Australia, Australian Government Department of Health and Aging, Diabetes Australia, Heart Foundation, Parent Help Line, Slicker Stickers, Pinpak and QIS Packaging to assist in promoting our Project.

How has the Toy Library benefited from the Council funding for the ‘Hastings Kids Healthy Lifestyle Project’?

We’ve purchased a range of fun and educational healthy lifestyle toys and equipment that families might otherwise not be able to afford, access or store. These include games, puzzles, food sets, kitchen sets, market stalls and outdoor equipment. The toys and play equipment can facilitate active play and enhance/develop gross motor skills, while educating children about healthy food and lifestyle through fun, interactive learning.

The new toys will be available at the Toy Library branches from February 2012, and we

hope and expect that the toys will see many years of borrowing, activity and educational inspiration in the community.

What inspired you to develop the ‘Hastings Kids Healthy Lifestyle Project’?

The relationship between unhealthy lifestyles and obesity in children causing long term illness is widely known. There is also a growing separation between children and the source of their food; many children believe their food is made in the supermarket. By increasing a child’s awareness of how food is produced – from paddock to plate, it increases their interest in healthy foods, and they are more likely to eat it. When good health habits are promoted early in a child’s life, it assists them in making better lifestyle choices as they grow up.

As a community organisation, we are concerned with the rising number of unhealthy, obese and inactive young children. If we can provide fun and active alternatives to TV and computer games to parents and other places children go to away from home (playgroups, family day care, grandparents’ homes etc.) we can help children to develop healthy habits. We strongly believe that the ‘Hastings Kids Healthy Lifestyle Project’ has the ability to help our children’s health, wellbeing, vitality and longevity.

Our children are the future decision makers and influencers of our society, and as a community we need to take as many steps as possible to reverse the trend of obesity and childhood illnesses for the sake of our children

and our society.

In what way can community members help out the library?

The best way people can help out is to join up and use our services! We are always after more volunteers. At the moment, we also need other things like storage equipment, boxes and bags, so donations are always welcome.

We really appreciate local businesses assisting us, like: Bunnings has generously donated shelving for the Wauchope Branch, and Toytopia in Wauchope has given donations and discounts on toys. Recently, a lady walked in off the street and gave us $50 to buy more shelving. This was totally unexpected, & we’re very grateful for it.

What are the borrowing terms?

Joining the Toy Library is easy. The annual membership fee is $26.40, or $13.20 for grandparents. If you become a volunteer, your membership is $13.20 and on the day you volunteer, your toy hire is free. Alternatively, temporary memberships are available and start from $5 plus toy hire. This is ideal for grandparents or visiting parents who want to entertain their grandchildren or children over the holidays.

Upon joining, new members are required to show proof of ID and need to fill out a form, including their contact details. The hire fee for toys ranges from $0.55 to $5.50, depending on the value of the toy.

Thanks ladies.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

Get in contact with the Hastings Valley Toy & Leisure Library Port Macquarie Neighbourhood Centre Cnr Dodds & Muston Sts. Every Sat of the month (except 5th Sat) 9.30am – 11am.

Phone 6582 4943 Fortnightly Hire.

Wauchope Neighbourhood Centre 3 Waugh Street.

1st Sat of the month (except January) 9.30am – 11am.

Phone 6585 9306 Monthly Hire.

Lake Cathie Community Hall Mullaway Road.

1st & 3rd Wed of the month.

12.00pm – 1.30pm.

Phone 6585 4849 Fortnightly Hire.

Or find us on Facebook!

Fit-print - For the ultimate in foot comfort.

All day comfort With summer now in full swing and back to school upon us, it’s the perfect time to pop into The Athlete’s Foot Port Macquarie to check out their current range, including sandals, thongs and lifestyle shoes.

Most of us may have over indulged over the festive season, so right now while the weather is perfect, it’s time to start walking off that Christmas cheer.

The Athlete’s Foot stocks the greatest range

of fitting options from the top brands – New Balance, Asics, Brooks, Nike, Rockport, Merrell, and more!

To help determine the ‘Perfect Fit’, resulting in better performance and injury prevention, we use Fitprint – the unique shoe fitting service exclusive to The Athlete’s Foot.

So for the perfect fit, call in and see Sue, Simon and the team at you’re locally owned and operated Athlete’s Foot, Horton Street Port Macquarie.

greater port macquarie focus 69

About Shop in our town and visit our unique boutique range of businesses. From cafés, beauty, fashion, tools and toys, to homewares, farming supplies and florists. Wauchope has it all!

WAU C H O P E

MARCO POLO MA

GUIDE.

SU

E MM

R

SA

NO LE

W

ON

Class-ique Fashions.

Wauchope Lasiandra Festival.

• Simply beautiful fashion clothing for the mature woman.

ENJOYED EVERY MARCH

• Large stockist of Black Pepper, Marco Polo and other leading Australian brands.

• Sunday 4 March.

Purple People Cabaret. Wauchope RSL Club Auditorium. More info/booking: 0419 498 102.

Main Events:

• Size range 8 - 24.

• Saturday 10 - Sunday 11 March.

Lasiandra Country Fair @ Wauchope Indoor Sports Stadium.

• Specialising in smart casual, ‘Mother of the Bride’ and special occasion.

• Thursday 15 March.

Purple People Shopping & Market Day Sidewalk Specials – Art & Craft Markets.

Wauchope CBD.

THIS SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS IS OFFERED FOR SALE. GENUINE ENQUIRIES. POA.

33 High Street Phone. 6586 1324.

Class-ique Fashions Style

Fit

Service

STALL BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL LIMITED SPACE

Wauchope Festival

Wauchope Rotary Club.

Blue Cow Designs.

The Rotary Club of Wauchope Presents: The Lasiandra Swing Supper Dance Dance to the Swing tunes of The Black Magic Big Band.

Saturday 18 February, Wauchope Showground Hall.

Doors Open 6.30pm; music from 8pm.

Prizes for best dressed.

Raffles to be won.

Book now! Cost $25 per head.

BYO drinks; supper provided. Bookings close 17 February.

Blue Cow Designs is under new management and on the move. Pop in and say hi, have a browse or jump online and check out our new website: www.bluecowdesigns.com.au

Phone. 6585 1535 Mobile. 0409 156 333

Hastings Co-op Mitre 10 Friendly service right to your door, EVERY DAY! Monday Camden Haven, Lake Cathie, Lorne, Kew and Lake Innes.

Tuesday Rollands Plains and Telegraph Point.

Wednesday Comboyne.

Thursday AM – Beechwood & Bellangry PM – Byabarra, Long Flat & Toms Creek.

Friday Beechwood and Pappinbarra.

Everyday Wauchope, King Creek, Sancrox & Rawdon Island Open: Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm.

Saturday 8am - 12pm. Sunday 9am - 1pm.

‘Hastings Co-op ... celebrating 95 years.’

1 Carrington Street

Phone. 6585 1655

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Phone. 6585 1103 Mobile. 0412 137 621 Web. www.lasiandrafestival.com.au

LOCAL DELIVERIES & GOOD QUALITY SERVICE RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR

• New owners – Jason, Karen and Kai. • Online shopping available.

• Spend over $20 online and get free delivery in the local area.

• Postage Australia wide available at reasonable rates.

36 High Street Phone. 6585 2116 Shop Online. www.bluecowdesigns.com.au Email. info@bluecowdesigns.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 71

& Wellbeing

By Glenise McLaughlin from The Natural Health Sanctum

School

lunches

Well, the school holidays are over and the kids are heading back to school. It is a big step for the little ones who are starting school for the first time, and they may need some time to adjust.

Food is a special consideration, as they are used to being able to help themselves to food and drinks at any time they feel like; and all of a sudden, they have to wait and have time restrictions as to when and how long they can eat. That’s something that is new to most of the little ones.

Nutrition is an important part of the new school year, making sure that they have enough food (and that they eat it) and drink can be a bit tricky at times. Try making the snacks and lunches nice and colourful and fresh; I can still remember some of the sandwiches that my father prepared for my school lunches – all soggy and not very tasty at all (bless his little cotton socks). So naturally, I didn’t eat them.

Also,food intolerances and fussy eaters can make lunch and snack making a challenge, to say the least. Depending on their likes and dislikes, try getting them involved in the food preparation if time

permits.

Nowadays, there is so much choice for snack food and drinks, so choose wisely.

High sugar means sugar hits at school and then sugar lows at school. The lows cause the children to get a bit sleepy and lose their concentration – not good for them or their teachers.

You could try: • Fresh fruit salads with small natural yogurt (low sugar ones, of course).

• Rice crackers and dips • Small homemade mini pizza (yes, they can be healthy with the right toppings) • Sushi made with avocado, red peppers and cucumber (or similar) • Hard boiled egg • Wraps with salad and chicken are always a hit.

• Fruit – try cutting it into small pieces – easier to eat.

• Leftover vegetable/zucchini/corn fritters I hope this helps. If you need some more information on healthy lunches and snacks, come and see Glenise McLaughlin at The Natural Health Sanctum, or phone (02)6583 3544 for an appointment.

By Matt Hempsell (Matt Hempsell Osteopathy & Sports Injury Clinic)

Back to School Posture.

It’s that time of year again, where the children are going into yet another year at school. Now they are back seated at their desks (at home and school) for increasing hours, we want them to have good posture.

How do we encourage it, then?

Certainly not by nagging, seems to be the point of David Newbound from the Children’s Seating Centre in London. His plea is for parents to take great care of their children's muscles and skeletons – in particular, their spine. Statistic from a US study* found up to 56% of teenage spines were deformed in some way. The culprit was identified as poor posture and extended sitting during growth spurts.

A study on 4 to 11 year old children looked at body usage and showed clearly how the variety of postures decreased as the children got older; they also moved much less when seated. The younger children tended to naturally sit with their spine in a neutral position (a reflex posture) and then move to another equally neutral position when they needed to. As the children got older, they reduced the variety of positions and also were more content in a slumped position, which owes little to reflex control.

In the long run, this could have effects on breathing, energy levels and overall health.

Giving children a good start gives a great

72 greater port macquarie focus.

By Dannielle Allison from Luminesque Clinic

foundation for their adult life, and ordering them to ‘sit up straight’ isn’t going to help things.

Gentle encouragement to move more and educating them on good ways to look after themselves is vital.

Some ways to help achieve this is to encourage more activity and less time slumped in front of a screen of some sort; this is easier said than done, but a good start. Obviously this can only be encouraged at home, and other gentle encouragements can also be made that would suit us all – not only our children.

• Regular short breaks – getting up and stretching • Avoid hunching over hand held games • Avoid laptops on laps – support them on a stand with a separate keyboard • Encourage supported seating – whatever the position, encouraging a ‘neutral spine’ Of course, specific advice is recommended, so contact Matt or your health professional for individual advice. *Some information sourced from www.familiesonline.co.uk

Check out (like) my Facebook page for free advice on ice protocols and other useful information: www.facebook.com/matthempsell

a

new

you.

Have you ever thought you ou would like to present a fresher, more youthful appearance to the world? Many of us would like to achieve firmer, fuller and younger looking skin, but don’t want to have to undergo invasive surgery.

What Is E-Light Photorejuvenation?

Our equipment combines state-of-the-art optical energy, Pulsed Light, with Radio Frequency (RF). With the addition of RF energy, the goal is to use less optical energy. The lower optical fluency (energy) allows for the increased treatment safety of all patients, including those with darker or tanned skin.

This technology is used to restore the skin's youthful appearance and to stimulate the skin collagen renewal from within the skin.

Photorejuvenation is a non ablative process, which generates pulsed light combined with radio frequency to safely reduce the melanin (dark pigment) in the skin, so that pigmented lesions fade and slowly disappear.

The treatment is ideal for patients with active lifestyles, because it requires no downtime.

What skin conditions can be treated?

• Sun damaged skin • Freckling and spots • Fine lines and wrinkles • Uneven pigmentation • Acne and superficial Acne scars • Redness and blood vessels, incl. 'thread' & 'spider' veins • Skin firming, lifting and tightening • Some Birth Marks How does E-Light work?

A hand held treatment head is placed against the skin, which is covered with a cooling conducting gel.

The pulses of light and radio frequency are delivered through a filter, which is selected based on the patient’s skin type.

The light penetrates the tissue and is absorbed by the pigmented lesions. The body's natural healing process will remove the injured tissue, giving the skin a more luminous, younger looking appearance.

Luminesque Clinic, Shores Retail Centre.

Ph: 6584 5666

focushealth. headaches?

foggy brain?

bloated? tired all the time? stomach upsets?

If you answered yes to any of the above, you could simply be suffering from an intolerance to one or more foods you are consuming.

Eyecare plus.

Parents are encouraged to have their children’s eyes examined in readiness for the new school year.

Research shows that up to 1 in 4 school students have an undetected vision problem that could be hindering their school performance.

The increase in vision problems seen today is a result of the fact that children are spending far more time doing visually demanding tasks at school and at home compared to their parents. These tasks include homework, reading, internet browsing, Nintendo, Playstation, Xbox, texting, FaceTime, Facebook, MSN, iPods, iPads, Twitter and watching television.

Vision therapy and therapeutic spectacle lenses can help minimise long term vision problems. As with most things, early intervention is essential. Parents are advised to have their children examined at six months of age, three years, five years and then every two years.

All our optometrists at Eyecare Plus have experience in testing children with an age appropriate test. Linda Chase and Adrian Cornale are also members of the Australian College of Behavioural Optometrists and both have a particular interest in children’s vision.

Food intolerances may cause a range of slow-onset symptoms that are seemingly unconnected to specific foods. Symptoms can take up to 72 hours to appear, in which time a lot of different types of food and drink have been consumed, baffling the sufferer as to what has caused their discomfort. Although not life threatening, the impact on sufferers can be significant, sometimes affecting their ability to live normal healthy lives.

Symptoms of food intolerance are many and varied and can include anxiety (acute/chronic), arthritis, ADD, bed wetting, bloating, chronic fatigue syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, depression, muscle aches and pains, headaches, inflammatory bowel disease, insomnia, itchy skin problems, mood swings, sleep disturbances, weight control problems – and many, many more.

Sufferers often complain of seeming to be in a ‘fog’, feeling bloated and being tired all the time.

Up until now, food intolerances have been very difficult and time consuming to diagnose, due to the vagueness of the symptoms and the time lapse.

Now a quick, reliable, simple, safe test for food intolerance to 59 foods is available at The Natural Health Sanctum. This procedure is the world’s first in-clinic test available for food intolerance.

This test now forms part of our comprehensive Food Intolerance Program, which is specifically tailored to suit each individual’s needs. Be quick, be smart, be symptom free – book in for your Food Intolerance Program now.

Glenise McLaughlin – Naturopath with over 17 years’ experience, specialises in the natural treatment of food intolerances. Phone 6583 3544.

Beachside Medi Spa. Look good, feel confident at Beachside Medi Spa. Carla Mcmanus has joined the team at Beachside Medi Spa and has 10 years of experience as a Beauty Therapist. The new product used in facials is a certified organic cosmeucitical that is very effective and good for the skin.

Beautiful You Glycolic Peel & Medi Facial 2 apts: a medical strength facial is designed to treat specific conditions, promote, repair and restore radiance. Indulge your senses, relax your mind and body and be pampered.

Lighten & Brighten Glycolic Peel, Limelight Laser & Medi Facial 3 apts: reduce freckles, pigmentation and redness, even tone; skin looks fresher and younger.

Firming & Toning Lactic acid peel, Limelight Laser, Collagen Induction Treatment and Medi Facial.

4 apts: stimulate your own Collagen to firm, tone and eradicate superficial wrinkles.

Non Surgical Face Lift 2 x Lactic acid peel, 2 x Limelight, 2 x Collagen Induction Treatment and 2 x Medi Facials.

8 apts: the ultimate in anti-ageing treatments, with dramatic results in skin tightening, skin toning and wrinkle removal for the most radiant, youthful skin elasticity and glow.

Call Beachside Medi Spa on 6583 3588 to arrange for your consultation.

greater port macquarie focus 73

Do you want to enjoy better health? Have more energy?

Ease tired, sore muscles? Be on top of your life, instead of life being on top of you?

Jacqui Holmes, Karen Archer, Sharne Tuedt, Sarah Norberry, Melanie Robinson, Kate Williams, Kayla Walters.

The complete Health and Wellness centre. nfortunately, many people go through life not realising just how fantastic they can feel by making a few simple changes to their diet and including regular massage into their lifestyle. Our objective is to help you to achieve your optimum state of health; where you feel energised, positive and well.

The Complete Health & Wellness Centre offers a range of naturopathic, massage and energetic medicine services, including a full herbal dispensary and practitioner-only products.

Located on Murray St (opposite Organic Belly Health Food Shop) in Port Macquarie, come

U

74 greater port macquarie focus.

in and see the experienced team today to re-energise your body, mind and soul ...

How do you assess the health of your clients?

Our Naturopaths use a range of tools to assess the overall health and wellbeing of each individual. Our expertise lies in identifying the underlying cause to each problem. We will generally start with an Iridology assessment using a special camera, and then depending on the presenting symptoms and reason for coming, we may utilise live blood cell analysis, urine and saliva analysis or allergy and intolerance testing.

Treatment programs are selected to support and

focusinterview. strengthen the body’s natural healing ability, increase vitality and restore general health and wellbeing.

What health conditions do you commonly treat in the clinic?

Our clinic assists clients in all facets of their health. Women consult us for assistance with ovarian cysts, menstrual problems, menopause, hormonal imbalances. We also treat male and female infertility and digestive conditions, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, food intolerances, constipation, fungal/parasitic infections, as well as Thyroid disorders and other endocrine and metabolic conditions. We assist people who desire a safe detoxification or fat loss program and frequently help clients with mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and sleeplessness. Skin problems such as Acne, Eczema, psoriasis are common conditions we treat.

Do your naturopaths specialise in any particular area of health?

Yes, Melanie treats couples who are experiencing difficulty with conception and looking for alternative fertility solutions. We work with women to improve their health and wellbeing prior to falling pregnant and right through to after their pregnancy. However, our naturopaths are qualified to treat a range of health challenges.

What types of massage do you offer?

Our massage services include Remedial, Sport, Therapeutic, Hot Stone and Pregnancy Massage, Lymphatic/Oedema Therapy and Ear Candling. Clients seek our services for a range of reasons, from attention to recent or old injuries

resulting in a reduced range of movement, pain and discomfort, to relaxation massage for stress relief. Lymphatic and Oedema Massage is effective for recovery from illness, fluid retention and cancer related surgery. Oedema occurs as a result of fluid accumulation in body tissues, most commonly occurring in the feet and legs, also called Peripheral Oedema. Ear Candling is used primarily to relieve conditions such as sinusitis, headaches and compacted ear wax, or simply as an enjoyable means of relieving stress.

What is Healing Touch, and how is it beneficial to health?

Healing Touch is an energy therapy where light touch is used on the clothed body to restore harmony and balance to the body’s energy system. When balanced, the body is better able to heal. Healing Touch assists in a wide variety of conditions, from stress, anxiety and grief through to wound healing and pain relief, including back pain. As a complementary therapy, Healing Touch can also be used to manage the side effects of medical treatments and procedures. It is a deeply relaxing treatment that leaves the client feeling refreshed and energised.

We want people to understand that it is possible to wake up feeling refreshed and energetic, to make it through winter without getting sick and to age without succumbing to chronic illness. It’s how we eat and live that really matters, and natural therapists are entirely suited to provide people with the knowledge and skills to achieve long lasting good health. Why not pop in to talk to us; our naturopaths and therapists are happy to talk to you about your health concerns.

The perfect smile.

The revolution in the field of technology is at its peak, and so are its applications. There is no aspect of our life where technology has not shown its benefits.

We have seen much advancement in Dentistry over the last decade, and Dental clinics are very different than they used to be. One such common example is the use of digital X-rays, where the X-ray image of teeth is transferred straight onto the computer screen, instead of being developed in the dark room. At Davis Dental, we had adopted the use of digital X-rays many years ago and have constantly upgraded and utilised modern technology to the fullest extent.

We have some of the state of art equipment in our Specialist clinic, making the experience of our patients comfortable. This also allows our patients to choose from a broad range of treatment options utilising current best practice models and advancements. In fact, we were the very first proud owners of iTero Digital Impression System on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Some of us do remember visiting the Dentist for crowns and bridge work and having sticky and messy impression materials put into our

mouth for record purposes. Instead, our latest addition, the iTero Digital Impression system, allows us to record or capture the image of the teeth with an optical scanner three-dimensionally. As the record of the tooth for crown and bridges is done with optical scanner, the level of accuracy and fit expected is much higher, with minimal scope of an error.

“It’s like having a 3D photo of the tooth taken with a camera.” That means freedom from impressions, which can make some patients terribly uncomfortable and sick (especially the ones with a strong gag reflex).

This is one such example of the use of latest technological advances introduced in our specialist practice.

Please feel free to contact one of our friendly experienced staff to know more about the range of Specialist procedures offered at Davis Dental.

greater port macquarie focus 75

focusinterview.

Jason Harris. arris i .

Allegiance Combat mbat & Fitness Centre. ason Harris started rte t d doing Martial fighter fitt for a bout that a fi ghter would do to get fi Arts when he was 11 years old and into the fitness classes offered – guaranteeing was teaching at 16. Over the 23 results, because as everyone knows, fighters are years of teaching, Jason has seen some of the fittest athletes you will ever meet. the evolution of martial arts and the “I want to change people’s lives and make whole fitness industry. a difference to every aspect of them – not To survive in business, you have to grow and only a person’s health, but their confidence as follow the trends – and that is exactly what well. That’s why we also teach combat classes Jason has done. From initially teaching only from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, boxing, kickboxing Martial Arts to 6 kids in the Port Macquarie and self defense, because with a strong body, CWA hall, he has now grown into a full-time there should also be a strong mind. Allegiance business teaching a range of fitness and Combat & Fitness Centre is a holistic approach combat classes to a wide range of to your health, because it’s all about people all ages. looking better, feeling better and “I want people to challenge walking around with your in tra ho w themselves, because I believe head held high and being People ant that’s what you have to do to proud of yourself. with us ACFC w r more out of thei e get results.”

“I don’t want to be d of th training insteaut e W e. in ro Jason is one who known as follower; I want t normal se ses as cl n fu on s cu definitely practices what he to be an innovator. We fo l tailored to suit al preaches when it comes to are always adding new fitness levels. health and competition. He classes to challenge people has been athlete prepared to test in different ways, and the himself with the some of the best ACFC boot camps are an example fighters in Australia – and still does, at of this. They are always different, fun, nearly 40 years of age. challenging and rewarding to complete.

“I do this for the reason; I like to test myself “ACFC will be supporting the Relay for Life and strive to constantly improve in the sport of again this year – anyone who would like to join kick boxing, mixed martial arts and Brazilian Jiu our team is very welcome; it’s for a great cause.

Jitsu.

We like to be conscious about supporting local “People who train with us at ACFC want events and giving back to community as much more out of their training instead of the normal as possible. set routine. We focus on fun classes tailored “My goal is to provide a facility where to suit all fitness levels. The fitness classes we everybody feels welcome regardless of gender, offer are freestyle; this means it will be different age or ability. I want to motivate people to every time, ensuring no boredom, and it keeps improve their lifestyle by encouraging discipline you guessing what’s next – this way, you will be and hard work, along with having fun when motivated.” training. By combining these things you are Jason has incorporated a lot of the routines guaranteed to get results.”

76 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Each year in February, Ovarian Cancer awareness is promoted on a national scale through Ovarian Cancer awareness month, which is designed to educate women about the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer and raise vital fundss y for OCA’s programs. Join Judy and the team at Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy on February 29 for a VIP Evening to support Ovarian Cancer Australia. n what ways does Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy support Ovarian Cancer Australia?

Chemmart Pharmacy has supported OCA for many years, playing a vital role in raising awareness of Ovarian Cancer in local communities and in raising funds for OCA patient support and research programs.

In 2012, Chemmart Pharmacy and OCA aim to raise more funds and awareness than ever before. Funds raised by Chemmart Pharmacies have enabled OCA to further develop support programs to offer critical information, practical resources and personal care and support to those affected by the disease.

In July 2011, Ovarian Cancer Australia launched the first ever National Research Program to assist in the diagnosis, detection and treatment of Ovarian Cancer, thanks in part to funds raised by Chemmart Pharmacies.

Tell us about the event that will be held at Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy during Ovarian Cancer Awareness month on February 29?

Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy is raising vital funds for Ovarian Cancer Australia and will be hosting a VIP Evening on 29 February, as well as continually raising funds throughout the month. The evening will include Guest Speaker Dr. Ray Hodgson, information about the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer, experiences from other women, and where and how to get the support needed.

NP Set Makeup Experts will also be at the event, offering mini-makeoevers and gifts and prizes.

We are thrilled to be able to help Ovarian Cancer Australia in its bid to raise awareness of the symptoms of Ovarian Cancer, as well as offering invaluable support to women and families affected by the disease. Holding the VIP Event this month will be a great

I

opportunity to help educate people and raise Ovarian Cancer Australia A t li and d be b a partt off funds for this important cause. the network that can help to save the lives of What have been some of the fundraising Australian women. efforts that Chemmart Pharmacies have Thanks Judy. contributed to Ovarian Cancer Australia?

The Facts In 2011, during OCA’s 10 year anniversary, • There is no detection test for Ovarian Chemmart Pharmacies did their bit by Cancer – the pap smear does not detect the participating in an afternoon tea event, to disease! raise a total of $73, 947. The goal for 2012 • More than 1,200 women will be diagnosed is for participating Chemmart stores to raise with Ovarian Cancer this year in Australia – $1,000 each, with an overall target of that’s three women every day. $100,000.

• Each year, around 800 Why is it important Australian women will to raise awareness lose their battle with Holding r ou as and support for Ovarian Cancer – that’s ch events su on g in en Ev organisations like one woman every 11 IP V February 29 s to Ovarian Cancer hours. are great way s Australia?

• 1 in 77 Australian raise awarenes r fo s There is no reliable women will develop nd and fu t early detection test for Ovarian Cancer in their such an importan cause.

Ovarian Cancer, so it is lifetime. crucial that women know • Ovarian cancer is the 6th the symptoms of the disease and most common cause of cancer know how to listen to their bodies. death in Australian women.

Each year, more than 1,200 Australian • It’s important for women to learn the women are diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, symptoms of Ovarian Cancer. The four types and each year over 800 Australian women of symptoms most frequently reported are: die from the disease. Approximately 75% of 1. Abdominal or pelvic pain. women are diagnosed at an advanced stage, 2. Increased abdominal size or persistent where the cancer has spread and is difficult abdominal bloating. to treat successfully. If Ovarian Cancer is 3. Needing to urinate often or urgently. diagnosed in the early stages, up to 80% of 4. Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly. women will be alive and well after five years.

Holding events such as our VIP Evening on February is Ovarian Cancer February 29 are great ways to raise awareness Awareness Month, when Ovarian and funds for such an important cause.

Cancer Australia invites the community, What do you enjoy about holding these volunteers and friends to raise vital funds for events and getting the community support programs and resources for women involved? and their families affected

by Ovarian Cancer, Our VIP Evenings are all about socialising and for a national research program for Ovarian and having a good time, while raising funds Cancer.

Activities include Teal Ribbon Day and and providing invaluable information for TM Afternoon Teal .

For more information, visit people in our local community. www.ovariancancer.net.au It is fantastic to be able to contribute to greater port macquarie focus 77

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focuseditorial.

Robyn’s

Robyn Butler.

Wonderful to see so many tourists in town for the holiday period, with many families enjoying our beautiful beaches on the Mid North Coast and surrounding areas.

M

y entire family was here this scam and rip off of all times (but legal!) In year, and what a great time the meantime, the competition has been we had together ... with my scrapped altogether due to the hundreds of mother turning 92 and me complaints, but I feel these people should be ‘graduating’ from middle age to pension age accountable for their actions in misleading ... ‘oh what a feeling’! and deceiving their readers – in particular, My beautiful friends, Bruce and Shirley, the elderly. organised a trip on the Junk to celebrate, My friend was putting in an order for over but it was the one and only night the rain $30, but on principle cancelled – as many came down in buckets, with lightning and others will, I hope. The old saying: “If it thunder and visibility down to nothing, so looks too good ... B I N G O ... there has got we cancelled and organised another date. to be a catch”.

In the meantime, they had blown up 65 SNIPPETS 1. Twelve of my friends were looking balloons for the occasion and kindly forward to seeing Bobby Rydell at took them to the Children’s the Glasshouse in March, but Ward at the Port Macquarie were gobsmacked to find the Base Hospital.We are yet Speaking of tickets were $67 each ... to find out how many TH 50 Y PP birthdays, HA MARK a lot of money to ask for burst in the middle of to Y DA H BIRT CFM a ‘good’ but older ‘Star’, the night and scared STRACHAN of 2M rt fame ... what a Poecial don’t you think? Back to the living daylights out ! Sp Macquarie icon the Tea listening to the ‘vinyl’! of the staff ... but what wishes to June .

2.

Douglas Vale Winery special friends I have in Lady in Port Macquarie are Port! celebrating the opening of the Speaking of birthdays, Heritage Festival for the Hastings HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY to MARK Region and the 150th anniversary of STRACHAN of 2MCFM fame ... what a the building of the Homestead Cottage Port Macquarie icon! Special wishes to June on Saturday 14 April 2012. More info next the Tea Lady. month, but mark it on your calendar.

BINGO … I DON’T THINK SO! 3. If you would like your new baby or A paper supplement, called Health Pride newborn grandchild’s profile (not fortune Pty Limited, comes out in a certain mag and telling) for the future done by numerology, has great gadgets for sale to make life easier Max of Wauchope (who celebrates his 80th for us – in particular for the elderly. birthday this month) would be happy to do it My lovely friend was perusing the booklet for you. The cost is $25, with all the proceeds and came across an extra sheet headed (minus postage) going to The Fred Hollows BINGO, whereby you scratch to see what Foundation ... you will not be disappointed. you have won. She followed the instructions Ring Max: 6585 2035 for more information. and to her surprise, had won $1,000.

He did my grandchildren when they were Elated to the point of hysteria, she got her born, and his summary was spot on. Max husband to check and make sure it was ‘fair has worked tirelessly for The Fred Hollows dinkum’. He said yes, but being a woman, Foundation for over twenty-five years or she asked one of her medical colleagues to more. also verify she was a ‘winner’.

4. His Thoughts Were Slow, With her confirmation of a win, she His Words Were Few, rang to claim her prize. To her surprise, the And Never Formed To Glisten, girl said ”No, you haven’t won a $1,000 But He Was A Joy To All His Friends … dollars”, and proceeded to give her the You Should Have Heard His Listen … greatest lot of “#@#@" you can imagine.

Happy Valentine’s Day. When my friend followed what the lass Robbie X had said, she realised it was all the biggest greater port macquarie focus 79

focusinterview.

H E AV E N

B E C K O N S

M E

Have you ever wondered what the Kingdom of Heaven would look like? Jesus said: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock”. Have you ever wondered what it would look like if you opened the door? race Church has a passion Africa, Zimbabwe, Philippines and many and desire to open the door other countries to help those people into the Kingdom of Heaven in need. Todd has been living in Port – that when people visit our Macquarie for 25 years, married his church, they leave knowing they have high school sweetheart in 2000 and encountered God. GRACE CHURCH now has two amazing children, Hannah 2012 is going to be an exciting place (7 years) and Lacie (5 years). to be! With a focus on encountering This year, we introduce a new team God and equipping people, we feel the member to the Grace Church team – Kingdom of Heaven will be experienced Ross Nancarrow. Ross has lived around in our daily lives. the Hastings for the last 8 years, after On January 29, we farewelled our moving from Perth. He says 1981 Senior Pastor Kerry Medway, was a ‘watershed year’, when he who planted our church came to faith and married over 17 years ago and Donna. He now has 4 adult appointed Todd and children scattered around r At Grace, ou Sarah Murray as the the country. After his am te pastoral e ar e w s next Senior Pastors theological studies, ve lie be to be leaders of of Grace Church.

Ross worked in church leaders ... that as Grace has a new base ministry and with le is Pastors, our rors leader, but is still disadvantaged people to he to equip ot . od G r under the same groups for over 25 years. te un enco management from up This work has taken him above! all over Australia and into At the ripe old age of many countries in conjunction 33 for Todd, it’s hard for Todd to with Christian and leadership wear the ‘Senior’ label. Although Senior development. Recently, Ross and Donna might not be the best label, Todd began lived in Bangalore, India for a year, the Youth Ministry in Grace Church in doing medical mission and consulting 1999 with a group called ‘Solid Rock for the Academy of Church Planting Youth’. This later changed into ‘Ignite and Leadership.

Youth Church’. Ignite grew up to 150 For 2012, our Grace Church young people worshipping God every Pastoral Staff will consist of Todd and Wednesday night. In July 2010, Todd Sarah Murray (Senior Pastors), Ross transitioned the Youth Ministry in Grace Nancarrow (Associate Pastor), Matt over to Bindi Packer, who is now our Doeland (Worship Pastor), Denise Farey current youth pastor.

(Children’s Pastor), Bindi Packer (Youth As well as having a background in Pastor), Jane Bax (Women’s Pastor) and youth ministry, Todd also oversaw the Brandon Erga (Trainee Youth Pastor).

Missions work in Grace Church, taking This is a great team of diverse gifting, him to places such as Russia, South talent, experience and ages and a team 80 greater port macquarie focus.

passionate and sold out for God. Big vision! At Grace, our pastoral team believes we are to be leaders of leaders ... that as Pastors, our role is to equip others to encounter God. Volunteers lead, staff assist, is a motto of our leadership practices. We believe that as individuals are encouraged to deepen their relationship in God and focus on their own talents, gifts and abilities, then the church will rise to be an unshakeable force in our community.

We seek to be a church known for hosting the presence of the Lord, where people are saved, healed and restored. To put legs on this vision, one of the big exciting things is that Grace Church will be running a new and fresh Bible School called Grace School of Supernatural Ministry (GSSM). This is an exciting venture and something that we have invested many thousands of dollars into.

It is our prayer and vision that Grace Church will be known as a church that teaches the Bible thoroughly and is guided by the Holy Spirit in everything we do. As well as GSSM, we will be refreshing and improving areas in our church, such as Pastoral Care, Connect Groups, Overseas Missions work; we will be introducing new business training and equipping seminars with the International Christian Chamber of Commerce. Our Worship Pastor, Matt, will begin work on Graces’ third worship album, and there is loads more already planned for the 2012 calendar.

Does Heaven beckon you? In 2012, why not consider opening the door to Jesus and see what can happen...

greater port macquarie focus 81

focusinterview.

Debbie Deasey.

Thanks to the Jim Bruce Urological Trust, Debbie Deasey was one of the first of five local nurses to complete a scholarship to study as a Urological Nurse. She tells us about the benefits this has given those suffering urological conditions ... he Trust provided 5 scholarships to train nurses in urological care back in 2010, of which you were one of the lucky recipients.

Tell us about your role now as a Urological Nurse.

I incorporate the training into my role as a nurse practitioner when I treat people in the community. The scholarship allowed me to work alongside the urology nurses and specialists at the Port Macquarie Urology Centre, so I could gain a stronger understanding of treatment options and plans for persons with urological conditions.

The Jim Bruce Urology Scholarship, in conjunction with Port Macquarie Base Hospital, also funded a bladder scanner in December 2011, to assist in the treatment for people in the community and facilities. This has been invaluable, as I can now scan a bladder of the person at home prior to catheterisation, or to review if catheterisation is necessary. The scanner prevents admission into the emergency department and allows safe treatment for people within their own homes.

Urology is a speciality that I feel intermingles with all other specialties, from continence issues, bed wetting, constipation issues, post surgeries, promoting good bladder and bowel habits, to supporting carers of people with urological conditions.

Why did you decide to apply for the scholarship?

I wanted more knowledge on urological conditions, as this was one of the main conditions I was treating in the community.

The course contains anatomy and physiology of the urology system, assessment, investi82 greater port macquarie focus.

gations and management plans to suit all conditions.

Another part of the course is also where to resource information for the community Don’t put the and support groups for the f, appointment of oms community to assist. pt m thinking the sy ’. Be The Jim Bruce scholarwill ‘go away your ship is also very unique, proactive about as it contains a theory health. promotion and prevencomponent, as well as a tion – and to our nursing hands on approach with the colleagues, to provide up to specialist nurses and doctors at date knowledge on urological issues, the Urology Centre. The hands on secsuch as continence, medications, preventative tion was my favourite, as I am a practical and techniques and men’s health. visual person. All the theory that I had learnt What are the most common diseases/ was reinforced at the Urology Centre, with conditions you treat at the Urology the nurses (Ann Doyle and Merrilyn Turner) Centre? patiently answering the multitude of quesWhile I was training at the Urology Centre, tions that I had. the conditions were varied, including bladThe scholarship allowed me to network with the specialist doctors and nurses and ad- der retraining, biopsies, catheter changes, bladder ultrasounds and education on men’s ministration staff, which then allowed me to health issues, such as erectile dysfunction, to continue to liaise with them, so I will always name a few. be current in my practice.

Within the community, the focus for me What have been the benefits to our local is when a person may have urinary retenarea of providing these scholarships?

The scholarship is open to registered nurses tion and can no longer pass urine and need catheterisation – and review of the why form all areas, such as hospitals, residential this problem has occurred. Education on facilities and community care; therefore, all continence issues, such as bowel and bladder areas can benefit from this scholarship. control, supervising staff involved in the care There is also a sharing of knowledge when of clients with continence issues and implefive nurses of differing backgrounds come together for the theory component, so we learn menting management plans for people with continence issues are also important. from each other, as well as the networking.

What are some common misconceptions The main and most important benefit is to people may have about urological condithe community. Having nurses with an intertions in general – and how can we help est and passion for urology, this knowledge dispel these? can then be passed onto the community for

One big misconception is that incontinence is expected when you get older. This is completely wrong. Incontinence is not a ‘symptom’ of old age. It is completely preventable, and you can start at any age with pelvic floor exercises and a healthy lifestyle.

Another I have come across is that Prostate Cancer treatment leads to impotence. Again, there are many treatments for Prostate Cancer to discuss with your urologist or GP, that will allow a full and functioning lifestyle.

What tips can you give men in general about how to look after their prostate health?

Get checked!

Have a blood test from your GP and talk to your GP about any concerns you may have.

Don’t put the appointment off, thinking the symptoms will ‘go away’. Be proactive about your health.

A special thank you to the family of Jim Bruce and the Scholarship Trust for training me and the other scholarships recipients over the last two years in this specialised field.

And of course, a warm hug and thank you for all the staff at the Port Macquarie Urology Centre for training me and providing ongoing support and friendship.

Thanks Debbie.

P RO S TAT E H E A LT H

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Keynote Speaker John Brogden

Forum.

The Jim Bruce Urology and Prostate Cancer Trust will present a free Men’s Health Forum at the Glasshouse on February 18. Dr Nader Awad explains the aims of the Trust and intoduces FOCUS readers to the topics that will be covered at the Forum ... or those who aren't aware, what is The Jim Bruce Urology and Prostate Cancer Trust – and what are its aims?

The Jim Bruce Trust is a local medical charity formed for the benefit of people living on the Mid North Coast. It was founded by the Bruce Family at the express wish of Jim Bruce, who died of Prostate Cancer. It is a charity that aims to raise public awareness of Urological Diseases, facilitate medical and nursing training in Urology, fund medical equipment purchases and enhance patient and carer support.

So far we have trained 9 nurses, who work in public and private hospitals, nursing homes and in the community.

We have facilitated the purchase of a $17,000 bladder ultrasound machine to be used in the community. This will help keep people out of our Emergency Department and our hospitals and help people be cared for in their own homes.

We are also very close to providing a $150,000 GreenLight Laser Machine

F

Dr Nader Awad.

for the Base Hospital. This cutting edge machine is the first one of its type in any public hospital in the state. It gives us a new way of operating on the prostate, which is safer and dramatically reduces hospital stay. This is great for Urology patients, but will also free up hospital beds for everyone in our community who needs them, regardless of their medical condition.

The Trust is presenting a Men's Health Forum at the Glasshouse on February 18, at which you'll be speaking. What topic/s will you be covering?

We really wanted to create a broad educational forum – something that would appeal to a wide section of the community. Our Keynote Speaker, former NSW Liberal Leader John Brogden, will be discussing depression. One of our local Cardiologists, Kevin Alford, will be discussing heart disease, and Prem Rashid and I will be discussing the prostate, prostate cancer and male sexual dysfunction.

It is going to be a very entertaining and

informative program.

What outcomes are you hoping the Men's Health Forum will achieve?

One of the disadvantages of living in regional areas is that many people present for medical treatment later than their city cousins. This, in many instances, can lead to worse outcomes. Prostate Cancer is a good example of this. This forum is about raising community awareness, educating, reassuring and empowering men and their families in seeking help if they need it. This is about the Trust's commitment to improving the Urological health of the men of the Mid North Coast.

How can people find out more about the Forum?

They can visit The Glasshouse website to reserve their FREE seat at www. glasshouse.org.au or visit www.jimbrucetrust.org.au. Flyers will be distributed throughout the community and many doctors’ offices. They can always contact the Urology Centre on 6581 4344 to find out more.

Thanks for your time.

The Jim Bruce Urology & Prostate Cancer Trust presents

Men’s Health Forum For the General Public and Health Professionals

J

Guest Speaker: OHN

B ROGDEN

Former NSW Liberal Leader

9am – 12.30pm Saturday 18 February 2012 Glasshouse, Port Macquarie (Cnr Clarence & Hay Streets, Port Macquarie)

J

im Bruce Urology & Prostate Cancer Trust, in conjunction with AstraZeneca Australia, is pleased to invite you to attend this Men’s Health Forum for men and women of the general public and health professionals. We are delighted to have attracted a number of outstanding local and national presenters, including a Keynote Address by John Brogden (former NSW Liberal Leader), to this important Forum at The Glasshouse in Port Macquarie.

R O G R A M

Hastings Choristers > A joyful introduction Cameron Marshall – MC > Welcome Rob Oakeshott, MP > What is the JBT and what has been achieved Deb Deasey > Urology Nursing Scholarship & patient support Dr Nader Awad > You and Your Prostate Dr Kevin Alford > A Healthy Heart MORNING TEA

MAJOR

Associate Professor Prem Rashid > ‘Use It’ or ‘Lose It’ John Brogden > Keynote Address: ‘Out of the Darkness’

SPONSOR

G R E AT LY S U P P O R T E D

P

BY

To b o o k FREE t ic ket s c a ll 6581 8888 or onl in e @ g l assho use.or g .a u – TI CKE TS N OT AVA I L ABLE O N TH E DAY greater port macquarie focus 83

focusbusiness.

pauladams.

The cost of websites has halved in the last 18 months. t’s been pleasing to talk to my colleagues because as we spend more time online, our in professional services, tourism, real estate expectations have risen, so we can sniff out a and finance and to hear that anecdotally we second rate site in no time. seem to be holding our heads above water Secondly, new software allows clients to when it comes to the performance of the local manipulate their own site content, putting you economy. back in control, instead of your web developer.

From what I’ve heard, our tourism operators While this seems strange at first, you soon get have had a good time over the holidays, with the hang of it, enabling changes to be quick and both rates and occupancy trending up – thanks inexpensive. Let me know if you want to learn to strong demand across all price segments. The more. area I don’t bother to check is retail, because Don’t you just love the end of the year, when generally they find any reason to complain.

Prime7 and NBN go head to head over who’s They’re like farmers who grumble for 9 years won the ratings? The PR battle is more intense about poor prices, then in the tenth year they now than ever – my, even Network Ten claimed complain about the price of their new Mercedes. a rare win in the grocery buyers with children Whether we like it or not, there will be demographic. The car companies used to do both excellent and poor performers in this, until they realised that no one cared.

2012 and sadly, the job of the Looking in the rear view mirror does media is to only report on the not pave the way for the future. latter – which is why I’ve What about JB Hi Fi coming This is just the , given up on the finance to town? I think the news gh entry point theou and business reporting. will be greeted with end sp w as e becaus r ou Like glorified weather applause, except by the e, lin more time on have forecasters, they’ll tell other electronics retailers; ns io at expect n sniff anyone silly enough to but then, if they’re not risen – so we ca site out a second rate listen how bad things making anything on TVs in no time. are when they’re not or now, what do they have to how bad things are likely to lose? Music and DVD buyers become when they’re not. will rejoice over their awesome So, we have a choice. Believe catalogue, as will other Short Street the pessimists and wind back on tenants. everything in anticipation of a slump – or not.

I’ll be the first to admit that there are lots of Have you heard the story of the roadside fruit advertising seminars throughout the year, but vendor who was doing well thanks to his when was the last time you went to one that billboard advertising? His uncle, an Accountant, was any good? The trouble with most of these came along and said: “Don’t you know is that they’re put on by either pencil necks or there’s a recession? You’d better cut back on Johnny-come-lately types, with 400 miracles up advertising”. Sadly, the vendor followed his their sleeve. Do they know anything about the uncle’s advice, and 3 months later his business local media scene? Do they have qualifications had declined to half of its previous size. in marketing? Do they have a track record of Accountants are excellent at watching expenses, successful practice. No, no and no. but they are out of their comfort zone when My seminar will cover branding, advertising, it comes to finding new customers or keeping websites/social media and staff engagement, existing ones. providing practical guidance for immediate use.

Downsizing strategies can free up time for Built on relevant case studies, attendees will Thursday golf, which is good. Alternatively, learn to smooth out their spending, improve if you have the inclination, follow the lead of their advertising responsiveness and turn regular my most progressive clients by ‘making stuff customers into loyalists and then ambassadors. happen’. Chances are, that not everything will My objective is to turn your marketing into a be a success, but if 7 out of 10 initiatives work – success story that becomes an asset, rather than then good for you. a part-time chore. If you are serious, you’ll find As for opportunities, the game changer the $99 investment worthwhile. As I’m limiting remains the digital world, but like everything, the numbers to 50, pre registration is a must. there are a couple of parts to the puzzle. Firstly, If you want to know more, drop me a line: with the cost of websites halving in the last 18 paul@adamsmktg.com.au or RSVP via the months, every Tom, Dick and Harry can become contact page on the website: visible. This is just the entry point though, www.adamsmarketing.com.au

I

84 greater port macquarie focus.

focusbusiness.

Your Financial Future.

minding your

Your financial future is important – isn’t it worth getting sound advice from a professional?

Like all important issues, it’s often useful to seek an opinion from a professional before you make any serious decisions – particularly when it comes to financial choices. You need to make sure you have a financial strategy in place that is appropriate to your needs and circumstances.

The right advice can make a real difference!

At Berry Financial Services, we offer you simple, easy to manage solutions, whether it be for your savings, superannuation or retirement income.

Whether you are looking for tax-effective investment income or growth, you need to look beyond your everyday account to make the most of your precious savings. Berry Financial Services offers the complete financial advice and investment solution.

We can efficiently manage all transactions, provide investment research, give you regular performance reports and recommendations,

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

If you are reading this, it means you have successfully survived the Christmas and school holiday period and are safely back into full swing! and remove the paperwork and complexity from your investments.

We are able to handle all your Centrelink matters, including providing updates to Centrelink on your behalf and ensuring that you are receiving all that you are entitled to receive.

If you have been looking for a simple solution, or if you would like a free financial check up, then contact us to make an obligation free appointment.

Julie BerryCFP is an Authorised Representative no. 263902 of Clearview Financial Advice.

AFSL No 337367.

T

he team at Port Chamber are certainly back, and things are proceeding normally. That is ... at a hectic pace!

How were the holidays for your business?

Most of what we’ve heard has been relatively positive ... especially when you consider the global (read European) economic instability which grabbed the headlines towards the end of last year. While we are quite insulated from the problems in Europe, the biggest impact news like this has here in Port Macquarie is its direct negative impact on the confidence of consumers to spend and businesses to invest and grow.

The weather was generally much better this year, and the holiday makers were everywhere!

On most days, I saw crowds of people making good use of our iconic spaces such as the Town Green, waterways and beaches.

The new Coles supermarket in Hayward Street is a good example of how we have to adapt to change. This supermarket is a critical anchor in the CBD, and its relocation will take some time to fully play out in terms of car parking and pedestrian movements. Once we all get a better understanding of how it will work, there will undoubtedly be opportunities for other shops in the vicinity.

Things are certainly different, but are they better or worse? Or just different?

One interesting and funny idea that was promoted satirically in various electronic media over the summer was the concept of first world problems. A man variously had a major problem with: earphones that were too tangled to use and a neighbour who couldn’t remember his name, amongst other seemingly inconsequential issues. He blew these things out of all proportion, until they became major problems.

Are a lot of the problems we complain about first world problems?

The Australian economy is the envy of the world, yet certain politicians and the media encourage us to constantly complain about how badly off we are. Furthermore, here in Port Macquarie, we enjoy one of the best lifestyles to be found anywhere. Should we rest on our laurels and just accept our lot?

Absolutely not. But we should at least take the opportunity to maybe look at the bigger picture and keep some perspective.

I was lucky enough to see some of the cricket at the SCG early in the new year.

Australia played very well and beat India

robert turner.

by a large amount, but the test was better remembered for Michael Clarke’s recordbreaking innings of 329 not out.

Interviewed afterwards, he was asked the obligatory questions about how he felt, etc. At all times, Clarke attempted to place the individual success of his score in the context of the performance of the whole team. He was much happier that his record innings contributed to a test match victory for Australia. The other aspect of his innings which went largely unnoticed was the time and space it gave to Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey to make big scores of their own.

How is this relevant to business in Port Macquarie?

Well, I think if we only concentrate on our own success without looking at the bigger picture, we might be missing out. If all we can think about is ‘what’s in it for me’... then we are missing opportunities to share and collaborate creatively with other businesses to generate even better outcomes for more businesses and our local economy and community as a whole.

A great example of this is the manufacturing cluster that grew out of a disparate group of metal manufacturers in the local area. The cluster has now evolved into Industry Mid North Coast which, using the combined power of local businesses can develop capacity, industry strength and tackle much larger projects than the individual businesses could achieve on their own.

So where does this leave us here in Port Macquarie in 2012?

We’re back at work after a busy summer.

Do we complain that things are bad ... and getting worse? Or do we acknowledge that things are different, and sure, if we don’t change, things probably will get worse. But do we also acknowledge that if we look for solutions and opportunities and collaborate with other businesses, then maybe things won’t get worse ... maybe they’ll even get better!

If you’re a glass half full business person and need a starting point for engaging and working with other great local businesses, the Chamber is a great place to start (visit our website, follow us on Facebook, or contact our office on 6583 4412). I hope you’ll join us in finding solutions and making the most of opportunities for local business in 2012!

Rob Turner, President Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce. greater port macquarie focus 85

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Colonial Arcade

A R C A D E

A R C A D E

Strata Professionals.

Elizabeth Bullock.

I have been a Clinical Hypnotherapist for over 30 years.

Hypnotherapy is a natural state of relaxation that can be used to access your subconscious mind and remove negative behaviours or thoughts and replace them with positive ones.

It is much quicker to make changes with hypnotherapy than just using will power alone.

Smoking, weight, gambling, alcohol, stress, anxiety, pain, fears/phobias, confidence, childbirth, public speaking, insomnia, hair pulling, face picking, nail biting, exam nerves, bad habits and children’s problems are just some of the issues that can be helped with hypnotherapy.

Virtual Gastric Banding is one of my new services available.

Hypnosis makes the mind believe that gastric band surgery has been done, turning the stomach into a small pouch.

This is extremely beneficial, as people don’t actually have to undergo serious surgery to get the results. Virtual Gastric Band treatment is very safe and very effective; it takes away hunger, reduces your focus on food and motivates you to exercise, so it becomes second nature to you and you easily let go of your weight problem.

Anxiety and Stress related problems are becoming more common. These can also be very successfully treated with hypnotherapy. For further information, contact Elizabeth Bullock on 0403 957 628.

In the Colonial Arcade, we have a sandwich shop, shoe shop, café, hypnotherapist, hairdressers, nail salon, women’s fashion, jewellery shop, gift shop, art gallery and framer, butcher, shoe repair and keys and real estate agents.

What a diverse retail arcade!

We all offer professional, friendly and personal service.

A great place to browse, shop and eat. A small arcade, with big things to offer.

86 greater port macquarie focus.

What services do Strata Professionals provide?

Strata Professionals offers a broad range of services to all types of body corporates, be it residential, industrial or commercially based. Essentially though, our primary role is to bring together a group of owners in order for them to make important and collective decisions concerning the wellbeing of what could be their home, investment property or business premise.

What are your business goals for 2012?

Through the dedication of our wonderful team of strata managers, we will continue to focus on the needs of our clients as they face the challenges of an ever changing legislative landscape. As always, we will continue to keep abreast of the continual changes in the strata industry, to ensure that our clients are fully aware of their obligations, and we’ll continue to establish and refine procedures to ensure that the sometimes onerous task of compliance is kept as simplified as possible.

Where are you located?

Recently we co-ordinated the refurbishment of the Colonial Arcade, where we are located. With the assistance of many of the owners, a far more modern and inviting arcade awaits those who have yet to see the changes. A visit to any of the fantastic businesses in the arcade is well worth it.

Colonial Arcade

“

Our care is unique.

We offer a professional service with personalised care.

”

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A R C A D E

With over 10 years’ experience.

Port Property Services.

Port Property Services is a small, successful real estate agency which is located in the Colonial Arcade in the CBD of Port Macquarie. We specialise in the sale, leasing and management of industrial and commercial properties within the Port Macquarie and surrounding areas.

Bob and Brenda Thompson have been local industrial and commercial area managers for over 20 years and offer a professional, all-inclusive service, with a guaranteed ‘hands on’ approach.

We pride ourselves on our high level of repeat business, by offering our clients the best service available – coupled with extensive local knowledge and attention to detail.

Supported by a team of enthusiastic and reliable staff, our company has the requisite knowledge, skills and experience to meet the requirements of your personal commercial real estate needs.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of the local real estate market or have thought about buying or selling property within the Mid North Coast area, please call our office for a confidential discussion relevant to your individual needs.

Contact can be made by calling the office on (02) 6584 0244, Bob Thompson on 0414 843 358 or emailing port.property@ bigpond.com. Visit our website at www.portpropertyservices.com.au for a comprehensive list of all of our properties.

Macquarie Business Centre.

Macquarie Business Centre has launched their Health Care Services division, with the focus that our care in your home will promote independent living. So why choose us to care for you or your loved one? Our team is led by Louise Coetzer, a registered nurse for over 20 years – a dedicated and passionate leader who will ensure you receive the best care. Louise and team are committed to ‘make a real difference to the lives of those we serve’.

Our care is unique. We offer a professional service with personalised care. We see the value of companionship, a warm smile, and a caring conversation. mbc’s vision is to be the preferred provider of business solutions, with a mission: to meet and exceed the needs and expectations of their clients by providing business solutions which enhance the effectiveness of the clients’ businesses. mbc is the leading agency for over 23 years, with a specialist team working across an array of industries: corporate and government recruitment, labour hire, traffic control, health care, skills shortage solution, business services and training.

Get Fitted.

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There is no single bra style that fits all, or that suits all activities. We have T-shirt bras, sport, push-up, soft cup, contour, lacy, padded, wire-free, strapless and convertible bras.

We have bras to suit various necklines (you may wish to bring in your special outfit with you).

Berlei sports bras offer superior support and comfort and are specifically designed for high impact sports. Shaped and padded straps convert to cross back for extra support.

YES, we can help. Please mention any current fitting concerns you may have and discuss with us the style of bra which best suits your needs. We offer a wide choice of quality big brand bras and can order in your ‘favourite’ if it is not in stock.

Come and talk to Lin today.

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pmq high exhibition

mpos Port Macquarie High School celebrates a major milestone, with its 50th anniversary in April this year. Kickstarting the celebrations early is a special art exhibition at the Glasshouse from February 25, featuring work from past students of the school. Exhibition organisers, Karen Richards and Jim Matsinos, are very excited at the diversity of the pieces on display. i Karen and Jim. What’s your involvement with the exhibition?

Karen: I’m an art teacher at Port Macquarie High School – this is my third year there now. The opportunity came up to have an exhibition as part of the 50th anniversary of the school, and I jumped at the chance. I knew I could draw on the wealth of knowledge from people like Jim - who has been involved with the school for much longer than I have.

I put a proposal to the Glasshouse, which they accepted, and ever since we’ve been working together to find students of the school who have gone on to become practising artists.

Jim: I taught art at Port Macquarie High School from 1974 - 2005, so I’ve known quite a lot of students through that time. I’ve helped Karen by providing the names of people I’m still in contact with – and also provided a diverse range of artists, not just painters, but people who have gone on to work with different facets of the arts.

What type of artworks/artists are represented in the exhibition?

Karen: As a teacher, it’s so exciting to hear the success stories from former students – it’s fantastic! It’s going to be such an eclectic and diverse exhibition.

The exhibition consists of works by people who have studied at the school and who have gone on to study some form of creative arts and achieved excellence in their creative pursuits … people like Samantha Wills, who

has gone on to do jewellery design and now lives in New York.

Karen Borger, a film maker who writes and directs films; she has actually supplied a film and some photographic stills of her work.

There are so many people who have gone on to have doors open for them and make names for themselves in their fields. Belinda Howden, an up and coming contemporary artist who has just returned from a residency in Iceland, will be exhibiting her work; Nancy Bevington, a graphic designer and children’s book illustrator has supplied some of her books; and local artist, Wendy Stokes, has supplied some beautiful artwork as well.

Jim: Wendy Stokes was among the first of my students to go on and make a name for herself. She became an acclaimed printer and now a painter. Wendy became the catalyst for other students who attended Port High to aspire for greater things in the artistic world.

We have works by George Hatsatouris – a very well known painter now based in Sydney, and Trevelyan Clay, who in 2011 was awarded the Maddocks Art Prize for an emerging young Australian artist, valued around $10,000 – which included a trip to the Venice Biennale.

Trevelyan is a completely different category of artist – he’s part of a pretty off-the-wall band called ‘Bum Creek’, and his paintings are ‘left of field’ and are sought after by art collectors.

Then there’s Andrew Dennis, who’s an absolutely beautiful painter. Andrew started out as an architect, before moving into art.

My daughter, Angie, has worked a lot with

theatrical productions. The work on display will feature her involvement in the opening ceremony at the Sydney Olympics, The Creation of the Wandjina.

Kerry Kranitis, who is now pursuing and studying art, is typical of students who change and follow a passion in the arts.

Karen: The artworks range from works completed by students from the day the school opened to now. I have students I’ve taught in the past few years who have gone on to uni to study animation, with the dream of working on Pixar films or similar. Hopefully my students now can see what’s possible and what’s been achieved by other Port High students from the past.

It must have been a lot of work to put an exhibition of this calibre together. How big will the exhibition actually be?

Karen: It was! It’s been so exciting to contact all of these artists, but a huge effort to bring them together. There are 13 exhibiting artists, and we’ll take up the whole top floor at the Glasshouse.

The multimedia capabilities of the Glasshouse allow us to play films, as well as display books and jewellery pieces with the paintings. It is an eclectic display, but all the pieces come together to celebrate what the students from Port Macquarie High School have been able to go on and achieve in their careers.

Jim: There have been so many students who have gone on to achieve amazing things – some have become artists, art teachers, some

went into advertising, photography, theatrical designers, event organisers – and it has been a big task to track a lot of them down.

What are the exhibition dates?

Jim: The works will be on display from 25 February to 25 April, with the official opening on April 13 at 5pm.

Karen: There will be a range of events happening from April 13 - April 15 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the school, but more information about these events can be found at: www.portmac-h.schools.nsw.edu.au/info/ index.html Registrations are required for the dinner and other events on April 13 - 15. There’s also a Facebook Group called Port Macquarie High School 50th Anniversary.

What would you say to encourage people to get along to the exhibition?

Karen: The exhibition is a celebration of the artists who have hailed from our area and the role Port Macquarie High School played in their lives.

A lot of the artists who are in the exhibition still have family in Port. Many parents of these former students still live here, so there’s a huge connection with the local community.

A lot of people who go to visit the exhibition will most likely recognise a few names as the kids who used to play down the street! It’s amazing what these former students have achieved, and it’s a celebration for the school, but also for our local community.

Thanks Jim and Karen.

Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus 89

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Piper Doug Piper is a local who’s passionate about Rugby ugby Union, Union having spent a lot of his time being a player, coach, trainer and manager. He has been able to combine his skills as a teacher of the deaf with this sporting experience to help hearing impaired players – most recently at the Australian Deaf Games in Geelong, Victoria.

H

ow long have you lived in Port Macquarie, Doug? What originally brought you to the area?

I did my original teacher training at Armidale, and my first posting was at Willawarrin, west of Kempsey. I moved to Sydney to work as a teacher and also completed further studies, so I could work as a teacher of the deaf.

I was actually seconded out of that role to work as a head office consultant working with students who have disabilities and technology – this was back when computers were just coming in. I did this for a number of years, then 13 years ago I had the opportunity to move to Port Macquarie.

I worked at Westport Primary, and I have been semi-retired for 3 years.

So, when did the interest in Rugby Union begin?

I first became involved with Rugby in Armidale, while I was doing my initial teacher training. I became involved with Rugby again in Sydney; when you’re a teacher, there are always opportunities for coaching, but I was actually more active as a player. I played for about twelve years each with two different clubs down there, and I’ve just had my 13th season with the Port Pirates here in Port Macquarie – with my whole career gradually spanning from player, to player/ coach to what I’m doing now with training, managing and sports first aid. I believe that I have now attended over 1,000 games in total.

So apart from the Port Pirates, what other teams are you involved with?

I was involved with Drummoyne and Hunters Hill Rugby clubs for over 22 years, and the NSW Suburban Rugby Union rep sides. I’m also involved with the Mid North Coast Juniors and Seniors sides; I was involved with the Port Macquarie Juniors for over 10 years. Then, the Australian, Southern Cross and Deaf Rugby Australia teams, in either coaching or managing roles.

How did the involvement with Deaf Rugby come about?

Because of my formal qualifications and wide ranging experience as a teacher of the deaf, as a Rugby Union coach and as a Level 2 Sports Trainer, the joining together of these strong interests of mine was perhaps a natural development.

It was a combination of things. When I was playing at Drumoyne, one of my team mates in

first grade was deaf, my best friend’s father-inlaw was in charge of a hostel for deaf adults at Stanmore, then one of my students in my class had tests that showed he had a hearing loss – so it was a kind of synchronicity.

I did a twelve month course at Sydney University in deaf education and became involved in the field – all the while still playing Rugby.

Some years later I changed I was awardedof clubs to Hunters Hill, and the Sports Med0al0, the opportunity came up Australia in 20esented to become involved with which was pr en Deaf Rugby in the first to me by the thr, John game between Australia Prime Ministe 01 for there – and what and New Zealand – but I Howard, in 20 n to were the team’s just had too much on my my contributio results? plate at that time. sport.

The Australian Deaf The opportunity didn’t Games cover a wide array come up again until I moved of sports – tennis, archery, to Port Macquarie, and Australian bowls, soccer, athletics, rugby etc Rugby Union was advertising for a team over a week. manager to look after the Australian Deaf Rugby My role at the Games over 2 days was as for a series of games in New Zealand. I threw my team Manager for the NSW 7s Rugby squad hat in the ring – and I was successful! This was in while providing Sports Trainer support (injury 2004. management, strapping, first aid etc.) for all of In terms of Deaf Rugby, I have been involved as the squads. Having a squad from Fiji playing this a Trainer, Manager, Liaison officer and/or Assistant year was a real bonus and added an international Coach with a variety of sides and activities, air to the competition. including international tours to New Zealand, Fiji NSW completed an undefeated series of games and most recently to Japan. by defeating Fiji 51-7 in the competition final.

What have been some of the major Rugby All of the games received great crowd support. highlights for you?

I was unexpectedly awarded the inaugural Life Winning (as an Assistant Coach) two 1st grade Kentwell Cup Premierships with Hunters Hill in the Membership from Southern Cross Deaf Rugby.

What keeps you involved with Rugby in very strong NSW Sydney Suburban competition general – and Deaf Rugby in particular? and winning two 1st grade Premierships in the Seeing the guys grow in confidence is Mid North Coast competition with the Port amazing. Deaf culture is very strong and the Macquarie Pirates. deaf community really gets out and supports the On the Deaf Rugby side of things, the 2005 players – and the social camaraderie side of Rugby tour of New Zealand with wins against their three is something you don’t find in all sports. strong provincial sides and drawing the two test Every time we go away, new faces pop up match series is a highlight. NZ were able to call on each time – and some of these guys are just the All Blacks Scrum Coach to help them for the exceptionally talented. There’s a young guy, last test. All of the related school visits are stand James, who hadn’t played much Rugby before – outs. he’s a natural. Another guy from Victoria, Nick, I was awarded the Sports Medal of Australia was an Aussie Rules player but wasn’t used to in 2000, which was presented to me by the then a close contact sport ... they’re just two good Prime Minister, John Howard, in 2001 for my examples. contribution to sport.

For me, the pure enjoyment ... the fun factor You attended the Australian Deaf Games in and seeing improvement in others is what keeps Geelong in late February. What was your role

me going.

What’s the future looking like for Deaf Rugby in general?

Hopefully, the Games will be the catalyst for further player identification and expansion. There will be a training camp at Armidale in 2012 and possibly a tour to China 2013. Planning is underway for an exciting new series of games and expansion over near future.

Deaf Rugby works on two levels, with people from all over Australia able to participate. The introductory and developmental level is Southern Cross Deaf Rugby Union. From there, the top level is Deaf Rugby Australia, which has eligibility criteria. We encourage all players to join a local club.

If Deaf Rugby continues to expand at the grass roots level, there’ll be further improvement at the higher level as well.

Where can people find more information about Deaf Rugby, or the Australian Deaf Games?

All of the local Rugby clubs are very supportive of people with a disability who want to play, and they’re a great place to start to learn and get involved in the game.

The link https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Deaf-Sports-Australia/126469597373520 will take you to the Australian Deaf Games (ADG) Facebook site with all the latest developments, or: www.austdeafgames.org.au/ for the website.

Visit: http://www.southerncrossdeafrugby.beep. com/ to find out more about Deaf Rugby Union.

Thanks Doug.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

Inset Photo: Deaf Rugby Australia 2011 squad, Osaka, Japan – Second Test. greater port macquarie focus 91

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education feature

Do you want to learn?

How can I improve my job prospects? Where can I learn about my new camera? How can I design better Word documents? Who can teach me how to update my website?

If you have the questions, we have the answers.

Challenge yourself in 2012 and learn something new, exciting, practical or creative.

Teachers learn new Syllabi in sydney

There are many educational pathways for growing your career. Invest for future career benefits with nationally recognised certificates.

Choose from a range of qualifications in Disability Services, Aged Care, Hospitality, Business Technology, Small Business Management or Training and Assessment.

Business survival rests on the skill and experience of senior staff. Frontline managers have a strong influence on the work culture, values and ethics of the teams they supervise. The College is offering at its Wauchope campus a course in Key Management Skills, which covers the key areas of leadership, planning and the guidance of others.

Learn to be an effective frontline manager and confidently represent your organisation.

If you have a head for numbers, a bookkeeping course can be a springboard to a career with plenty of potential; in fact, it could even inspire you to leap into business for yourself. We have a full Certificate course in Bookkeeping

• • •

• • •

(Financial Services) or short courses in Accounting Principles, MYOB, GST & BAS. Enrich your leisure time with fun and interactive classes across a diverse range of interests from Art to Yoga. Covering Port Macquarie and Wauchope, the College course program is published five times through the year and delivered to your letterbox.

For leisure, to learn a skill, to help with employment or just as a social event, the Port Macquarie Community College team can help you find what you are looking for. The new February/March brochure has something for everyone. Call now and talk to our friendly staff, or visit our website for course information.

La Vive Classique welcomes Samantha Sullivan

new directions. Musically inspired exercises and

RAD TC (DIST) to the teaching faculty. Sam has

dances will help students develop a love, knowledge

vast experience teaching all styles of dance,

and understanding of ballet through participation.

including Jazz, Modern, Lyrical, Contemporary,

La Vive students had many great successes in 2011.

Street and Hip Hop.

The students participated in Taree, Kempsey and

The qualified teachers of La Vive for 2012 are

Port Macquarie Eisteddfods. One of their many

Elizabeth Polson-Galloway ARAD, RAD TS, Dip of

winning groups at Taree was selected to perform at

Dance (Dist), Cert IV TAA, Ashleigh Olsen, Breanna

the Dubbo DREAM Dance Challenge, where they

Maghazey-Hayes, Lauren Wade, Sue McManus,

went on to win $1,000.

Julie-Anne Thompson, Emily Lawson and Simone Stark. Classes are held at Port Macquarie, Lake Cathie and South West Rocks in all forms of dance.

The highlights at Port Macquarie Eisteddfod were the number of first places in solos and a Jazz and Classical scholarship being awarded to La Vive.

Principal of La Vive Classique, Elizabeth Polson-

52 scholarships were awarded, and 122 Awards

Galloway, offers classes at these three locations,

presented at the La Vive annual presentation. Ella

with trained enthusiastic staff who specialise

Chambers was accepted into the Australian Ballet

in anatomical awareness, ensuring your child is

School Interstate Training Programme for 2012

dancing safely while having fun. ‘Our aim is not to

and Tynan Wood accepted into the New Zealand

be the biggest we aim to be the best.’

School of Dance. The Academy holds classes in the

Elizabeth, along with teachers Ashleigh and

morning and the afternoon for Baby Ballerinas,

Samantha, attended the launch of the Royal

Baby Jazz Boppers and Tiny Toe Tappers, for ages

Academy of Dance new Grades 1 - 3 syllabi in

2 to 5 years. Classes are held in all forms of dance

Sydney last week. The new syllabus celebrates the

from 5 years of age, including boys and adults

traditions of ballet and acknowledge its exciting

classes. Make your first step the right step.

• • •

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education feature

2012 is the year to dance!

Wauchope and Port Macquarie Performing Arts have six fully equipped studios and ten passionate staff working in two locations to bring the joy of dance to students of all ages.

his year they are offering students a large variety of classes in Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Hip Hop and Musical Theatre. Classes start at students aged 3 years through to adults, and they aim to cater for students with all levels of experience.

2012 is the year to dance!

Principal Stacey Morgan spends the mornings live on Star FM as one half of the Star Morning Crew and the other half of the day providing performing arts experiences to students of all ages.

“I am so lucky to do what I love every day and to share that with so many people. I feel blessed to have a dance school with such enthusiastic, dedicated students who just love coming to dancing and great parents who support and encourage them.”

Opening in January 2011, WPMPA wanted to focus not only on dance technique, but all of the other qualities students gain from doing dance as an after school activity. The school has grown with a focus on teamwork, building students’ self

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esteem, teaching discipline and self confidence and instilling passion for dance in their students.

The qualified and caring staff want all of their students to feel they are a valued member of their dance family and aim to give all students, no matter whether they attend one class a week or eight, a wide variety of opportunities to experience throughout the year.

If you hate going to the gym but want to keep fit, why not try a dance class? WPMPA has adult classes in each style and caters for adults with limited experience who just want to enjoy their exercise in a casual environment; although, adult dancers with previous experience have classes catered for them also. It’s never too late to join and classes are casual, so you can come and go as you please!

And for young parents wanting their child to dance for the first time, Twinkle Toes and Mini Men classes for students under 7 years are a perfect introduction to dance. These classes continue to be popular and provide students with a great introduction to dance styles, co-ordination and

musicality. These classes are $7 each and there are no additional surprise uniform costs, as students are encouraged to attend class in whichever clothes they are most comfortable dancing in.

There are both morning and afternoon classes in this age group in Wauchope and Port Macquarie.

To kick off the year, there is a choreographic competition for students; all ages can enter in styles of Jazz and Contemporary – group, duo and solo performances welcome. WPMPA Staff have planned a trip for students to see the sequel to Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies at the Capitol theatre in Sydney in March; this is in addition to a trip to see Swan Lake at the end of the year. WPMPA are offering all of their students aged 10 and above the opportunity to tour to the USA in 2013 for a week of performances, masterclasses and dance experiences; they have even been invited to perform in the Disney Parade!

Teachers, students and parents will be fundraising to help cover the costs of the trip for students, so that as many dancers as possible have the opportunity to attend this once in a lifetime event.

WPMPA understand the importance of communication and like to keep parents and students well up to date with all dance school activities. Exams and scholarships are optional, and there is no pressure for students to compete in Eisteddfods, though students who do wish to take part in these extra activities are encouraged.

Parents of all students in the school are well informed, so that there are no surprise costs or rehearsals to interrupt family plans.

It’s not too late to enrol at either the Wauchope or Port Macquarie studios; call 0402 314 474 between 3pm and 6pm any week night, like wpmpa on Facebook or see their website: wpmpa.co

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“

Returning in 2012 due to popular demand, are Extreme Dance Studios’ adult dance classes!

”

Graphic Design A Creative Careerr This qualification reflects the role of graphic designers at the beginning of their professional careers. They combine technical, creative and conceptual skills to create designs that meet Graphic k client requirements designers woren t er ff di y an m and solve a range of in al ci er comm signage and web design. visual communication and community challenges. They have a Career opportunities/ contexts, acrossdigital sound understanding of vocational outcomes: both print and design theory and practice media.

People with CUV50311 and are able to analyse and Diploma of Graphic Design synthesise information from a are able to work in a range of range of sources to generate design professional graphic design roles, solutions. often as junior or generalist designers. The Graphic designers work in many different commercial and community contexts, across both print and digital media. At this level, the designer is likely to be working in junior or generalist roles. Their work may include or have links to areas such as advertising and promotion, art direction, branding, corporate identity, instructional design, packaging,

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conceptual and theoretical content in this qualification also supports learning at higher levels. Graduates may engage in further learning in vocational and higher education through Advanced Diploma and Degree qualifications in graphic design and broader areas of practice, such as digital media or other design disciplines.

eXtreme Dance Studios Extreme Dance Studios pride themselves on providing a safe, nurturing environment for students to enjoy the joys of dance and performing arts, and this is true from the tiny tots right through to adults. In 2012, Extreme Dance Studios are introducing more music and movement classes. These classes are for preschoolers and provide a great introduction to dance, movement and music appreciation.

Extra classes have been added due to demand and also to provide several options for parents to accommodate their busy lifestyles. Music and Movement classes now run on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings.

New in 2012 are the ‘Baby Ballerinas & Mums’ classes. These classes are a great way for parents and little ones to enjoy the experience of dance together and to support the children as they experience something new for the first time. Also new in 2012 are the ‘Munchkin Hip

Hop’ classes. Due to overwhelming demand and the popularity of the Hip Hop classes, Extreme Dance Studios have introduced ‘Munchkin Hip Hop’ classes to cater for younger students who want to move it and shake it and develop a strong base in Hip Hop. Returning in 2012 due to popular demand, are Extreme Dance Studios’ adult dance classes! Extreme offer adult classes in Jazz and Ballet, as well as open Hip Hop classes for teens and adults. The adult classes are a great way to get moving and keep fit, in a fun, friendly and supportive environment. If you want to unleash the dancer within, give Extreme Dance Studios a call and try a class free of charge.

Extreme Dance Studios focus is to give children a fulfilling learning experience, whether they do it for fun or hope of a future career in dance. Enrolling now for 2012; come and try a class.

focusoneducation.

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education feature

CSU offers more choice in education Educational opportunities available to those living in the Mid North Coast region are expanding, with the establishment of a Charles Sturt University (CSU) campus in Port Macquarie and plans to support up to 5,000 higher education students by 2030. he Commonwealth Government recently announced that over $14m in funding would be committed for facilities and campus development at Port Macquarie, and now CSU is developing a fully functional university campus in the thriving coastal community. “Having worked closely with the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council for over two years on a strategy, it was apparent there were longheld concerns in the community about the lack of local options for students on the Mid North Coast and persistently low levels of participation in higher education,� said CSU Deputy ViceChancellor (Academic) Professor Ross Chambers. “This significant development expands higher education opportunities for people on the Mid North Coast.�

Located in Grant Street, near the CBD, and only 2.5 km from TAFE, this new university campus location boasts top class facilities, with three modern teaching spaces and significant computing facilities for teaching and learning.

Similar to CSU’s other locations, the Port Macquarie Campus will have An Academic tor a learning commons for private ort Co-ordina in pp Su and group study, as well as full ts will assist studen access to CSU’s extensive online ng ni ar le numerous as learning resources, library, and matters, such ing other services. academic writ s. and study skill This year, five programs, and/or refer students to developed in conjunction with CSU’s range of services, North Coast TAFE, will be delivered at including counselling, disability, the newly established campus, including administration and enrolment matters, Creative Industries, Social Work, Health and scholarships, fi nance and IT support.

Rehabilitation Science, Accounting, and General Additionally, an Academic Support Co-ordinator Studies. will assist students in numerous learning matters, “With the establishment of a CSU campus such as academic writing and study skills. in the city, the region will see benefit from “Charles Sturt University greatly values the considerable economic and social opportunities,� opportunity to work with the Port Macquarie Professor Chambers said. “Academic and student and Mid North Coast community and expects the support staff will deliver the high standard Port Macquarie Campus to become an important found at all our campuses, ensuring the student member of its network of regional campuses. experience meets expectations.�

The CSU model has proven highly successful in A ‘Student Central’ Officer will be located in creating opportunities for university education the learning commons to assist with enquiries

and research for regional communities and in supporting the professional workforce needs of those communities.�

With students being welcomed for the start of session one this month and an official campus opening planned for the middle of the year, program offerings for 2013 are already being prepared.

As part of the federal funding and to help support students and encourage enrolments, CSU will be offering a range of scholarships to students from mid 2012. More details of this will be in future editions of FOCUS. For more information, students can visit www.csu.edu.au/4me or call 1300 135 435.

Now you can study what you want without having to leave home. How? Through Charles Sturt University’s Port Macquarie Campus. In conjunction with North Coast TAFE, CSU offers a range of courses, some with a mid year start, including: t #BDIFMPS PG "DDPVOUJOH t #BDIFMPS PG $SFBUJWF *OEVTUSJFT t %JQMPNB PG (FOFSBM 4UVEJFT

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Call today 1300 135 435 F2150A

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focusrealestate

focuseditorial Port Macquarie Landcare President sident

estellegough.

U P D AT E Backyard Buddy.

Ask Greg Greg Trembath answers your real estate questions.

Q Householders who are lucky enough not to have a dog or cat resident on their property have a wonderful opportunity to indulge in some habitat gardening. ust having a tree can be a startrie and appreciate these wonderful assets. ing point, for next to a leafy tree a It’s just one step more to thinking that a bird bath can be situated. Stock it small patch of your garden could become an with clean water at all times, then extension to a local reserve, or a corridor for wait (maybe a week or two) for the locals to a native bird or animal trying to get from A discover your watering hole. to B safely.

Little Wattlebirds, Grey Butcherbirds, Birds bring more than the gifts of sight and pigeons, peewees, lorikeets and honeyeaters sound to your garden. They deposit seeds are a few of the common species which will and given the right conditions for seed gerappreciate cool drinking water mination, you may be surprised at the on a hot summer’s day. number of native tree species that A native food tree pop up from past bird feasts. with nectar producing However, if the volunteer To be a l al y dd bu blooms will advertise seedlings are mainly weed backyard is do to ve ha u your stop-over point species, it may mean the yo out care, and find lik even more so for the birds are feeding on subures what a critter e. honeyeaters and loriban garden exotics (examples lik t no or does keets, and if the foodare the bright red fruits of source tree is growing asparagus fern or other ‘bird just a few feet from your lollies’). kitchen window or living area, This can indicate the health or you get to enjoy the birdlife without ‘needing attention’ of our suburban gardens the need for binoculars. in terms of their contribution to weed Someone in your household may wish to problems. If they harbour weedy plants like become a backyard buddy of wildlife other asparagus fern, the health of our bushland than the feathered variety (recommended will suffer – and so will biodiversity. site: www.backyardbuddies.net.au). BlueIt will make a big difference to our bushtongue lizards are a favourite visitor to many land and its inhabitants when you substitute backyards where there are no dogs or cats. native plants for the weedy exotic plants that To be a backyard buddy, all you have to ‘escape’ from suburban gardens. do is care and find out what a critter likes or Port Macquarie has over fifty urban bushdoes not like. land sites, which Council’s ecological team Some urban properties are suited to having have audited, and with strategies in line for a pond – and this can add another dimenfunding, they are progressively working tosion to life in your backyard. Create a habitat ward improving these bushland sites to near and be surprised and delighted at the variety self-sustainability. of species which need a home or stop-over Port Macquarie Landcare Group volunteers point in their travels. assist in many of these areas, protecting the Many householders live near reserves and diverse nature of wildlife vegetation. natural habitats in and around Port Macqua(Contributed by Janet Slater)

I have decided to buy my first to appeal to a broad spectrum of prospective investment property in the Port tenants.

Macquarie area. What should I be Location – proximity to schools, shops, transport, looking for? beaches and waterways provide maximum appeal It’s important that you clearly establish what you for tenants, and it's LOCATION that drives future want to achieve by this investment – capital growth. are you looking to accrue profit in Low maintenance – good tenants the short term (say 5 years or avoid homes that clearly need Think like a less), do you aim to invest for repairs or require a lot of upkeep savvy investor retirement income, or do you by them. As the owner, you ... find out why ties have other short or long term will also want to minimise certain propera ch goals? maintenance costs eating into su e achiev With your investment strategy your income. good yield. in mind, you can then start to Investing in property can be a highly research the market to help you rewarding experience. Don’t be afraid choose the type of property to suit. to take each step slowly, and make sure Think like a savvy investor and focus on the you check your facts with experienced advisors. rental income. Find out why certain properties Answers are general comment and readers achieve such a good yield. Put yourself in the should always seek their own independent potential tenant’s shoes and consider what would professional advice. influence your decision if you were looking to rent Send your real estate questions to in the area. gregt@portrealestate.net My short list of ‘must haves’ for investment Greg Trembath is Co-Principal at properties include: Laing+Simmons Port Macquarie Comfort – everyone wants it. Make sure the Licensed Real Estate Agent – Licensed living space allows for flexible furniture options Auctioneer.

greater port macquarie focus 99

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G R E AT E R P O R T M AC Q U A R I E

property guide

Experience, Integrity, Professionalism.

10 100 00 0 0

greater gr g gre re ea attter port ate port o macquarie

Experience, Integrity, Professionalism.

focusabode.

J & E Miller Builders is a family owned business ttha that hat ha has been established in the local area for over 30 years. Chrissy Jones takes a look at their all new display home, ‘The Seaside’, located in the Oxley Park Estate, Port Macquarie.

m Only minutes fro stling bu e th d an s op sh quarie, CBD of Port Mac home w this brand ne print could be the bluefuture s ’ ily for your fam lifestyle.

he new display home is open to view Wednesday to Saturday, 1pm to 4pm. The stylish and very well laid out residence creates a striking impression at 7 Whistler Drive.

Salesman Russell Clucas is ready to show you through the home, which is for sale as an investment property, with guaranteed income details available upon request. J & E Miller Builders are committed to providing a

T

personalised customer service, quality developments, attention to detail, professional planning and construction and a broad flexibility in house design. Their designs are smart, and they will work with you to stay within your budget, while always providing top quality workmanship and an honest and fair approach.

Offering you the best workmanship and materials to make your home a cut above the rest, the team will

endeavour to make your building project as stress free as possible. With an experienced design team that are committed to you, as the customer, to ensure treatment with integrity and respect. You are guaranteed a quality product from a well established business, designed to build a home just for you. They provide innovative solutions for all your building needs.

Miller built is better built! continued over

greater port macquarie focus 101

focusabode.

Experience, Integrity, Professionalism.

The Display Home.

Expertly designed to suit the most modern tastes, the open plan design lends itself to a relaxed carefree lifestyle for its occupants.

Incorporating a mix of claddings; the external front facade is striking to say the least and a standout in the new estate. 200 x 200 hardwood timber posts support the tiled entrance portico and provide an earthy contrast to the rendered brick veneer that is the main exterior surface.

Composite stacker stone wall cladding has been used around the windows of the home office as a highlight to the front view, along with vertical cladding skirting around the lined portico eave to add a different texture to the overall appearance. The exterior of the Display Home is finished off tastefully, with the fully landscaped gardens, along with a Sir Warlter turf supplied and laid by Earls Turf,

102 greater port macquarie focus.

and a simple chain downpipe that catches rainwater to fill the fish pond with an overflow into the stormwater.

Entrance to the home is via a wide access door into the beautifully tiled foyer that boasts a 3 step cornice at the 2.550 high ceiling line and recessed square wall lights, along with a modern look chandelier. Left of the foyer is the home office/study, which has a raked ceiling and internal access to the main bedroom. One hundred per cent solid Mosowood bamboo flooring ‘Australiana’ from Verde Bamboo is underfoot in this room, the formal lounge or theatre room opposite and the children’s activity room at the rear.

Off white 450 x 450 ceramic floor tiles from ColorTile With Style are the preferred flooring of choice in the entry foyer and all living and high traffic areas, with a matching

An interesting ing feature of the livless am se a is room er silicon joint corng a window, creatin very different effect.

non-slip variation being laid on the rear alfresco deck and front portico.

A superb layout of 4 large carpeted bedrooms, all with built-ins, including the generous main with spacious en-suite with separate toilet, as well as his and hers separate walk-in robes – the home is generous, some 357 sqm of open plan living.

Features are many, from the inclusion of modern fittings and fixtures throughout, including recessed energy efficient down lighting, stylish surface finishes and varied window styles, to the inclusion of the central vacuum and air ventilation systems; nothing has been overlooked.

The right angled stacker sliding glass doors, supplied by Trend Windows, lead you out

onto the rear northeast facing alfresco, capturing year round comfort from the ever present northeast breezes. The stackers have been recessed into the floor tiles to provide a seamless connection between the main living and outdoor entertainment area. Outside power points enable you to clean and have an electric BBQ or extra lights if needed.

The kitchen, living and dining rooms combine magnificently with the alfresco, creating a fantastic space catering to the modern family that enjoys entertaining.

Between the living area and the children’s activity room is a fantastic bench that has been cleverly designed as a wall divider and storage nook, utilising both sides. The bench provides a large open shelving unit to the din-

Experience, Integrity, Professionalism.

ing room side for magazines and the like, with cupboards on the activity room side for the kids to put things in that can also be used as a work station or a desk area for projects and assignments. There is also another storage cupboard for games and toys, and this whole area also has bamboo underfoot. Two bedrooms are adjacent to the activity room, separate WC and walk through laundry that leads back out to the large alfresco area.

The large third bedroom, once again with built-ins, can easily act as a guest room, linking to the activity room in close proximity to the main bathroom. The bathroom is large, with a glass walled shower which has a tiled recess in the wall providing a home for shampoo and soaps, lovely deep bath along with a wall hung vanity and full size mirrors. Ceiling fans and down light complete the picture.

An interesting feature of the family room is a seamless silicon joint corner window, creating a very different effect; this toughened glass window connects with the open plan family and outdoor alfresco. This, along with the wallpaper feature wall, adds character and a touch of sophistication.

The centrally located galley kitchen comes complete with all the mod cons, including a Fisher & Paykel oven, convection cook-top, rangehood and glass splashback. Twin drawer Fisher & Paykel dishwasher and a stainless steel double sink with flick-mixer are all housed in the extra large island bench. This bench doubles as a breakfast bar and features a grey speckled stone top, laminate panel recessed kick board and an under bench microwave nook. The concealed pop-up power point is a trendy and practical added extra. Overhead cabinets with bi fold doors and under

bench drawers provide easy access for all your kitchen supplies. An extra large walk in pantry concealed behind feature sliding doors combines well with the galley style kitchen, providing loads of storage and bench space for all the family’s cooking requirements.

Innovative Velux skylights over the kitchen area let in a lot of natural light and provide an economical alternative to create an illuminated living area that is filled with abundant daylight.

An integrated children’s activity room, separate bathroom and WCs, large entertaining area, solar heating, oversize walk-in linen and a functional galley kitchen all add up to make a home that is ideal for a young growing family.

The display home is tastefully decorated throughout to emphasise the modern family layout that can, of course, be adjusted to suit individual needs. This home is presented on the basis of what you see is what you get; you will be given a firm price on application, with no hidden extras or surprises.

A showcase of the many different facets of the company’s building capabilities and use of innovative products and design, the new J & E Miller Builders display home in the Oxley Park Estate is a collaboration of many years of experience in the building industry from the J & E Miller Building and office team and their highly skilled group of tradesmen and suppliers.

We are happy to adapt this plan or any of the standard plans you may see on our website or brochures. We are also happy if you come to us with your own thumb sketch, so we can put together a design utilising your ideas.

focusabode.

e The display hom d rate is tastefully decophasise throughout to em ily the modern, fam urse, of co n, ca at th t ou lay it be adjusted to su s. individual need

continued over

greater port macquarie focus 103

focusabode.

Experience, Integrity, Professionalism.

From the Builder.

Tell us a little about your business. How long service and the utmost integrity at all times throughhave you been operating? out your building project. We can turn your dream John Miller, trading as J & E Miller Builders Pty Ltd, home into a reality, by creating a design that would has been successfully building beautiful homes on suit your specific needs and budget. the Mid North Coast for well over 30 years. The local We are committed to: building company have always offered the best in • Personalised customer service materials and workmanship, to make their homes a • Quality developments cut above the rest.

• Attention to detail What are the types of building J & E Miller Build- • Professional planning and construction ers Pty Ltd specialise in?

• Flexibility in house designs J & E Miller Builders Pty Ltd specialise • Quality tradesmen/workmanship in building custom homes for difficult • Smart designs and steep blocks and for those • An honest and fair approach e With our in hous le ab who are seeking a truly unique • Working to suit your budget e ar we deisgn team, ct right and individual home. Apart from The highly specialised J & E Miller to handle a proje ncept through from coare also the custom homes, the company team of tradespeople is second to e to handover. W to your builds commercial buildings and none. Most of them have been with happy to build o small plan. No job is tous. are happy to quote on extensions the business from its inception or or too big for to your home. shortly thereafter; their businesses have You offer a personalised drafting grown and flourished alongside our own. and estimating service. What does They know and appreciate the quality we this mean to the customer? require in our homes – the quality that our reputation With our own in house design team, we are able depends upon. to handle a project right through from concept to We pride ourselves on our finish and have had handover. We are also happy to build to your plan. many years in the industry, enabling us to choose No job is too small or too big for us. great tradespeople to associate ourselves with, resultHow do we go about commissioning you to ing in the best quality control available. A unique build for us? What is the process? difference between us and our competitors is that the We encourage you to call our Sales Manager, Rusprinciple of the business still works on the tools; John sell Clucas, on 0448 451 188; he will be more than is very hands on and approachable – a man with vast willing to guide you through the process of building experience in the industry – and he heads up a highly your new home. You will be provided with the best experienced team at J & E Miller Builders.

104 greater port macquarie focus.

focusabode.

Econoflow Roof Ventilation System.

This J & E Miller display home has been fi fitt tted tted d with a revolutionary roof down approach to home climate control.

At the heart of this design is the National Green Award Winning Econoflow Roof Ventilation System. The Econoflow system function is to maintain the home climate environment by controlling the temperature within your roof space. The system uses a low power, high flow, ducted fan, in conjunction with natural convection to cool in summer and retain natural warmth in winter within your roof space. This in turn keeps your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Some systems, such as wind powered roof mounted whirlybirds, have a negative benefit in winter, by extracting natural warm air – increasing heating energy costs.

You are in complete control of temperatures

with the Econoflow System. Located within your home in a convenient position is a digital temperature control panel, allowing you to control roof space temperatures or simply see what the temperature within your roof space is doing. Temperature control can be set low in summer and high in winter, or operate at predetermined settings.

No penetrations are required on your roof, as the Econoflow System utilises eaves and or gable ends to exhaust hot air and to provide essential cooler make up air. The Econoflow System doesn’t require wind or sun to operate and as such, can continue to work into the evening where necessary to keep your home cool.

The key advantages of installing an Econoflow System include:

• Su Sub Substantially bstan reduced electricity usage where home cooling is required • Leads to a healthier home by extraction of fumes and condensation from the roof cavity • Costs approximately 1.5 cents per hour to operate, compared with air conditioning costing between $0.50 to $3.50 per hour to operate • You have control over temperature settings, and you can see that the system is operating, extracting hot air which can reach temperatures as high as 75 degrees in the roof cavity.

A comparison with other currently available roof space ventilation systems will show that the Econoflow system is the most successful in terms of heat extraction rates (extracts about 380 litres of hot air per second) and is the most cost effective purchase.

the plug!

The new display home located at 7 Whistler Drive, Oxley Park Estate, Port Macquarie is open to view Wednesday to Saturday, 1pm to 4pm.

For more information on a J&E Miller home, phone Russell Clucas Mob: 0448 451 188 www.jemillerbuilders.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 105

Want a home that is different from the rest?

Peter and Kim Ruming have been building interesting and energy efficient homes in the local area for over 20 years.

They offer personalised service from start to finish when building your home, focusing on simple and sustainable designs to make the most of our beautiful climate.

Little Beach Building Co can give a finished quote on completed plans. Together with Living Green Designer Homes, they can offer a wide variety of plans, ideas and designs – customising to suit your budget, needs and chosen block of land.

Living Green challenges the way we live by providing alternatives to standard building and construction methods. By using the latest in sustainable and lightweight building products, cost efficient design principles and encouraging a reduced building footprint, Living Green Designer Homes achieves quality homes with superior energy efficiency.

We aim to customise each and every design that we build to suit the individual site constraints. No site is the same, and we believe a key element of building sustainably is to design the home to the natural contours of the land and orientate it to achieve the best possible solar passive design.

For more information about a home by Little Beach Building Co and Living Green Designer Homes, call Peter and Kim Ruming, or view their website. Follow the link to view Living Green Designer Homes’ website.

106 greater port macquarie focus.

Awesome Window Tint.

You can’t afford NOT to have a free measure and quote.

Spend between $600 to $900 on window tinting, all done at the same time, and you will receive a $50 gift certificate.

Spend between $1,000 to $1,500 on Window Tinting, all done at the same time. You will receive a $100 Gift Certificate.

These certificates can be given as a gift or used by yourself on further window tinting. Don’t be fooled: there are more colours than the black look.

Today’s tint colours can range from almost clear for VU protection and lower heat reduction, bronze, light grey, darker grey, to charcoal and more; all are energy efficient in differing degrees.

Cleaning window tint is a breeze – just a soft, damp cloth.

Lifetime warranty on residential and 12 years’ warranty on commercials.

We will recommend the best film for your aspect and show you samples.

Call Pauline or Scott today: 0401 396 762 or 0410 039 471.

focusrealestate

Welcome Naomi Hunter First hand knowledge of local conditions is one of the most important criteria for a successful real estate agent.

Attendances have soared Looking for a new home is an exciting

weekend of January, a total of thirty three groups of

adventure. Of course, the adventure comes

potential buyers inspected one particular Lighthouse

with significant responsibility and obviously

Beach home and overall, the current volume

an element of caution, but it’s exciting

of attractive offers has delighted many hopeful

And that is what Naomi Hunter er brings to Laing er as their latest and Simmons in her new career Real Estate Consultant.

nevertheless.

vendors.

Last November, and again in December, the Reserve

Buyer interest equates to buyer competition in

Bank dropped interest rates by a total of 0.5%. This

the marketplace, and this demand drives property

Naomi has a vast knowledge of Port Macquarie, having lived in the Lighthouse and Shelly Beach areas for the last 27 years. ars.

Honing the skills and expertise e she Her main aim has developed over the years in n r new career he in both her own businesses and en is to sure that llers as a conference and events buyers and seid ed ov pr e manager, Naomi strives to excel el ar e alik ng di ar w with a re in everything she does. Having ga and stress free genuine love of Port Macquarie and and Simmons team back experience. its wonderful facilities, she is looking in October. They continue forward to being able to share her local to be the market leaders in knowledge with both sellers and buyers.

Port Macquarie and have been Well known for her professionalism and the No. 1 office for the Laing and Simmons flawless work ethic, Naomi is 100% committed, group 11 years running. dedicated and sincere in all her dealings. She is Along with her daughter Courtney, who equipped with a natural flair for communication attends St Paul’s High School, Naomi loves all and distinctive people skills and puts her clients’ that Port Macquarie has to offer and intends needs and interests above all else. living here for many more years to come. She Her main aim in her new career is to ensure looks forward to catching up with past clients that buyers and sellers alike are provided with a and meeting many new ones and assisting rewarding and stress free experience. them along the way to achieving a successful result in either selling or purchasing their Naomi is delighted to have been given the property. opportunity to join the award winning Laing

injected new life into Australia’s property markets,

values. The independent, market-leading RP Data-

with seasonally adjusted capital city home values

Rismark Home Value Index recently reported a

promptly climbing by 0.1% and regional home

“robust increase in finance approvals, for purchasing

values (including Port Macquarie) by an encouraging 0.3% – the biggest increases since December 2010.

Once again, buying a new home has begun to look, not only viable, but for first-home buyers, investors or those wishing to upgrade, it seems to be absolute common sense.

of established properties”, and this again is an unmistakable indicator of renewed buyer activity.

History has shown us that following any slump in real estate values, recovery has been inevitable and, once it commences, has been encouragingly swift.

So, for those who have been waiting for home prices to bottom out, or for those who have been watching

Already in Port Macquarie, McGrath Estate Agents

for renewed activity in the marketplace, positive

have noticed the unmistakable signs of renewed

signs are now unmistakable. The team at McGrath is

buyer interest. Attendances at regular ‘open homes’

very excited and looking forward to another record-

have soared, with average numbers increasing by

breaking year. Why not join in their excitement

over 100% since last November. As an example,

and embark upon your own 2012 adventure?

during a single 45 minute ‘open’ on the first

(Roger Bates is a freelance copywriter and columnist.)

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME Could 2012 be your year?

The outstanding team at McGrath have been delighted to see a signiÀcant resurgence in buyer interest, since the interest rate cuts of November and December 2011. Genuine enquiries, from both local and out-of-town buyers, have risen dramatically, along with attendances at open homes; indicators which are wonderful for the Port Macquarie community, the local economy and for those buying, selling or upgrading their homes. 2012 is undoubtedly shaping up as a year of great promise.

The superior McGrath network can Ànd buyers from within or well beyond the Port Macquarie region. McGrath’s oϞces are linked, sharing a database of over 129000 qualiÀed buyers, whilst their award-winning website continues to be the most popular and eϞcient franchise website in Australia.

Whether buying, selling or renting, now is a good time to speak with the friendly team at McGrath. Be a part of the success story and before too long, they could be welcoming you to your new home.

McGrath Estate Agents 147 Gordon Street Port Macquarie T 6589 3777

mcgrath.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 107

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108 greater port macquarie focus.

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www.bagorealestate.com.au

Lifestyle with Outlook

379,000

$

• Stunning 3 bedroom home • 2 bathrooms • Large separate lounge room • Reverse cycle air conditioner with fans • Huge undercover merbau deck with reserve outlook • Semi above ground pool

• Side access to yard

Mudbrick & Tranquility

399,000

$

• Beautiful 3 bedroom home • Peaceful 5 acres • Fronting Murrays and Pappinbarra river • Est fruit trees • Grazing paddocks

Federation Homestead 5 Minutes to Town

850,000

$

• Beautiful 5 bedroom home with study • Separate self contained granny Åat • 3.5 acres of rich fertile soil • 5 minutes to Wauchope

Fantastic Value

349,000

$

• 3-4 bedroom home • 2 bathrooms • 2 living areas • Undercover BBQ area • Double panel lift garage • Huge 8x8mtr shed at rear • Double gate side access

First Home Buyer / investor

849,000

$

Kipara Rollands Plains

• Immaculate 5 bedroom home • Deep salt water pool • 100 rich fertile acres • Minutes to town • Very private

239,000

from $

• Quality 2-3 bedroom homes With garages • Good size yards, side access • Some with pools and sheds • 2 minutes to CBD

Hobby Farms

Convenience and Lifestyle

262,000

from $

• 5 acres to 340 acres • Cabins to houses or vacant land • For Cattle, Horses or Hobby • Within 25mins to Wauchope

Neat on 1 Acre

459,000

$

• 320 acre working Farm • Cattle and silage • On the Wilson River • 3 bedroom home • Great income producer

Valleyview Rollands Plains

835,000

$

1,759,000

$

• Diamond quality 337 acres • Quality 5 bedroom homestead • Cattle, Silage and Horse stud property • Great income producer • Fronting Glenco and Wilson River • 125 Water lic, underground irragation

• Solid double brick home • 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Garage plus 3 big sheds • Est. fruit trees and gardens • 8 minutes to Wauchope

Tarcoola Private River Paradise

895,000

$

In Town Castle

• 5 Private acres on the Hastings River • Large 3 bedroom home with study • Self contained granny Åat • Beautiful manicured lawns • 3 paddocks with water

Susie Barry 0438 438 057 | Tanya Gill 0437 860 554 | Chris Gill 0438 866 000

315,000

$

• Solid 4 bedroom home • Polished timber Åoors • Huge family kitchen • 2 bathrooms • Drive through garage • Large level back yard • Quiet family street

Shop 2 33 High Street Wauchope Phone 6586 4900

www.bagorealestate.com.au

PRICE REDUCED

focus feature.

b a t h r o o m

r e n o v a t i o n s

Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year.

ColorTile With Style TILES With Style have recently combined with Colortile Port Macquarie to create the region’s only tile and bathroom Superstore. ‘Colortile With Style’ can offer a truly amazing range of products from the world’s leading manufacturers of tile, stone and bathroomware.

We have over 650 m² of showroom space, with open areas and fully tiled displays being a feature. There are literally thousands of colour and design ideas, as well as the friendliest and most experienced staff to help guide you through every stage of the selection and installation of your dream tiles. We have fully trained interior designers in store.

ColorTile With Style also offer a complete range of vanities, tapware, toilets and accessories to complement any home.

This means that you can source everything for your new home or renovation at the one location.

Local Experts Rescue, Restore & Reassure Tile Rescue are your local tile and grout maintenance experts. Protect your new tiles and grout – long-term, or completely revive household floors and outdoor areas.

Without a sealer, porous stone, tiles and grout will stain almost instantly – and permanently. Sealers work by providing a reaction time, allowing removal of the offending contaminant, and drastically reduce the need for scrubbing with harsh chemicals.

Did you know our services extend beyond the beautiful? We believe that safety and security is important to everyone, so we just love our anti-slip solutions (our customers do too!)

Remember, at ColorTile With Style, we make tiling (and bathrooms) easy.

Essential for the elderly – perfect for children, our affordable anti-slip solutions are ideal for high traffic areas, inside and out and are popular with both commercial and residential clients.

ColorTile With Style, 181 Lake Rd, Port Macquarie. Please phone us on 6581 3200.

Call your local Technician for a free quote today: 1800 853 335. www.tilerescue.com.au

Australian bathroom designer of the year moves to Port Macquarie area. Interior designer, Michelle Burton, has recently moved herself and her business (SMB Interior Design) to the Port Macquarie area. She has set up her home and design studio in Lake Cathie. “I fell in love with the area a few years ago when I was commissioned to oversee the interior design on a beautiful home in Dunbogan,� said Michelle. “I plan to build my own beach home I have designed later in the year, somewhere in the area.�

Michelle is principal designer of her own company – SMB Interior Design and recently won the prestigious 2011 Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year, judged by her peers through the Kitchen & Bathroom Design Institute (KBDI). She has also won awards for her kitchen designs in previous years.

Originally from New Orleans, she studied interior design in Los Angeles (UCLA) and finished her design course in Sydney. She had lived on the Northern Beaches of Sydney since 1992 (now residing in lovely Lake Cathie) and started her own design company – SMB Interior Design – in 1998.

You can see Michelle’s winning entry and her portfolio and range of design services on her website: www.smbinteriordesign.com.au

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We have e m co pleted mor e th in s bathroom st la e th er ov ea ar y ten years thanhian ch competitor, w for should speak itself.

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Tell us a bit about your business ...

Custom Design Bathroom Renovations operates as a complete bathroom service, specialising in bathroom renovations. We are fully licensed and have been in the industry for over twenty years. By providing both quality and efficiency, we complete every bathroom in a highly professional manner.

Most standard jobs are completed within 10 days, so that your lives are back to normal and you can enjoy your new bathroom. We are bathroom renovation specialists, so it is not only award winning bathrooms that we do. We endeavour to do all sizes and styles of bathrooms, en-suites and laundries, from classy, modern, classic and even themed, and they are all completed with the same care as if they were to be an award bathroom.

We have completed more bathrooms in the area over the last ten years than any competitor, which should speak for itself. This allows us to have a better insight to design layouts when major changes are required.

What are some services you offer? From complete bathroom, en-suite and laundry renovations, with our well oiled systems and highly skilled team, there is no challenge beyond us.

From design to completion, Custom Design Bathroom Renovations are the specialists who offer a wealth of experience backed up by a high rate of client referrals and multi-award winning bathrooms. Phone Craig Maltman today on 0412 625 891 for an obligation free measure and quote.

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Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year

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Michelle

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ichelle, you recently moved to the Camden Haven area from Sydney's Northern Beaches with your partner G. Tell us what prompted the sea change.

Actually, it wasn’t too much of a sea change for either of us, as we have been living on the Northern Beaches of Sydney for the past 15 years. We are now living in Lake Cathie, which is very similar, but with one huge difference ... it is so wonderfully quiet and restful. Lake Cathie has all the good things about the Sydney beach life, without the driving stress.

I fell in love with the area some years ago, when I was overseeing the interior design on a beautiful home in Dunbogan. We have been back and forth many times since and are now planning to build a beach cottage, which I have designed, somewhere in the area.

You’re an interior designer. What first enticed you into that industry?

I was born in Louisiana, USA, and from an early age I was always in love with the buildings and interiors of the beautiful old homes in New Orleans – which we visited often. Now, wherever I travel my biggest pleasure is experiencing the architecture – old and new. I enjoy seeing how people live and to experience their lives – especially their home life.

As an interior designer, tell us about where your career headed over the years ...

I started my interior design studies in Los Angles (UCLA) and completed my final years in Sydney, when I moved to Australia (I am now an Australian citizen). I am continually attending professional development courses and visiting design expos both in Australia and overseas. And of course, each design project is new and presents different challenges. So, by loving what I do, each year takes me in new directions. And here I am, at the start of a new year, living in beautiful Lake Cathie in the Camden Haven area.

I think the biggest difference about the interior design work in America and Australia is that Australians are less conservative. It is probably the influence of so many cultures in Australia that gives designers and homeowners the confidence to be more adventurous and eclectic in their design choices. It is refreshing working with families living in Australia.

Most recently you were acknowledged for your work by being named the ‘Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year’. Tell us a little about this prestigious award.

The Kitchen and Bathroom Design Institute (Australia) is the only national organisation exclusively for kitchen and bathroom designers. Each year, the KBDi Awards

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acknowledge the excellence in design, innovation, talent and professionalism of kitchen and bathroom designers in Australia. The short listed entries are judged by leading designers and industry professionals.

This year I was awarded the ‘KBDi Australian Bathroom Designer of the Year It is a fast 2011’, as well as the ‘KBDi Designer – g trend, so in ow gr Large Bathrooms NSW 2011’ award. l suited for coasertae Obviously, I was thrilled for myself and th d an living, my associates. e so many new ar Please briefly describe your winning products and bathroom. design choices.

The practical design obstacles on this Held in Milan, Italy, the bi-annual family home bathroom renovation were 5-day design show, ‘Eurocucina’, is the many, but the most challenging was designing global event for cutting-edge kitchen and to a triangular floor print that stepped down off a bathroom design. The exciting expo showcases the walk-in wardrobe. The existing double shower (which the European kitchen and bathroom trends. Thousands of client wanted to retain) splashed water, leaving behind a international visitors attend to view the latest in materials, wet floor. such as laminates, wood, metal, masonry, lacquers and the The key to resolving this design challenge was the finest in finishing accessories. World class designers and installation of a custom stainless steel shower tray with a manufacturers display concept and design solutions for the timber floor drainage grate, that collected the water spray home: innovation in appliances, furniture and ergonomic and two large, glass, full height panels installed to partially and sustainable design ideas for kitchens and bathrooms. enclose the shower. A curved vanity and round, semiWith home design attracting unprecedented attention recessed basins were designed to allow for safe circulation in terms of consumer interest and financial investment, I at the most narrow point of the room, along with other see it as my responsibility to inspire, educate and to be at innovative joinery storage solutions, such as a power point the forefront of design, including awareness of new and for hair dryers, were fitted inside the vanity drawers. The improved materials. end result was a design that included a mix of innovative Having now settled into the coastal lifestyle, where materials and eco-sustainable products within a clever are you heading with your business and designing space-planning design solution. now?

The judging for such an award is based on a point More of the same – and more of anything new. After score across a few areas, such as ergonomics, client 15 years in the interior design business, I have a fantastic brief, environmentally friendly products. How did network of professional colleagues and associates, and I your bathroom design meet those criteria? welcome new design opportunities. Last year, for instance, The entries have a strict criteria. Points are scored in the I worked on more commercial and office fitouts and areas of design solution and layout; industry compliance; consulted on a 5 star island resort interior fitout. But I eco-sustainability; accuracy of documentation i.e, plans, really love helping people and families get more out of elevations and 3D images; specification criteria of materials; their home – their personal living space. I also think I will fittings and fixtures; and of course, fulfilling the client brief. continue to develop my design skills in the alfresco indoor/ Oh ... nearly forgot. It also has to look stunning. outdoor integration of living spaces. It is a fast growing The KBDi judges commented on the astute use of space trend, so suited for coastal living, and there are so many and ingenious design solution. new products and design choices. I am looking forward to “This is a cleverly resolved solution to an awkwardly meeting new people in the area and would like to wish all shaped space that has created a fresh and appealing your readers a safe, happy and healthy 2012. bathroom,” they said. “The client’s brief to create a light, Thanks Michelle. airy, spacious and relaxed space has been met in this clever Contact Michelle on 0413 398 908 or by email design”. info@smbinteriordesign.com.au. You can also check out her The prize for your bathroom is a trip to Italy, but website at: www.smbinteriordesign.com.au specifically to attend an expo. Tell us about that.

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