Coffs Coast Focus - i155

issue

155 DECEMBER 2023

C O F F S

C O A S T

W I L D L I F E

S A N C T U A R Y

2020 2021 2022

The North Coast Hotel Group THE HOEY MOEY, COFFS HARBOUR The Hoey Moey is the premier destination for drinks, food, live music and events on the Coffs Coast.

For an exceptional experience drop in – right on the beach in Coffs Harbour.

PARMI/PARMA

FINALIST

BEST OF COFFS COAST 2023

THE SEAVIEW TAVERN, WOOLGOOLGA The premier venue of the Coffs northern beaches, The Seaview Tavern is truly the best venue for all.

Outdoor beer garden capturing the best sea breezes, amazing family friendly spaces and playground, multiple function spaces and live music and entertainment most nights of the week – take the time to visit.

THE CORAMBA HOTEL, CORAMBA The Coramba Hotel is nestled in the heart of the picturesque Orara Valley only 15 minutes from Coffs Harbour. The venue is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

With a fresh facelift, this iconic establishment now boasts a modern country pub feel, exceptional dining, family friendly beer garden with a classic country warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Great food. Live music. Good times.

THE NORTH COAST HOTEL GROUP SUPPORTS & ENCOURAGES THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL & GAMING

OAK01604_COFFS_A Future To Look Forward To_Focus Mag_DPS_Press_400mmW x 250mmD_FINAL.indd 1

A future to look forward to at Oak Tree

Start the conversation this Christmas The fast-approaching festive season provides the perfect opportunity to connect with family, celebrate what’s important, and discuss your next chapter with those closest to you.

If you’re looking for a future filled with independence, new friendships, less responsibilities, and more to enjoy, a move to Oak Tree Retirement Village Coffs Harbour in 2024 is the confident choice.

Before you discuss your options with friends and family over Christmas celebrations, it’s a great idea to make a list of what you’re looking for in retirement living - location, size, inclusions, facilities, budget, security, and social activities.

By doing this prior, you’ll go into conversations clear headed, and the whole process will seem less overwhelming.

Even if you’re not ready to make the move just yet, it’s never too early to discuss your options

and start planning for the retirement lifestyle you deserve.

You could also take the opportunity this holiday season to visit our boutique retirement village for a free, private tour with Village Manager Michelle. Walk through our display villa, view our wonderful facilities, meet some of our friendly residents, and experience the Oak Tree difference firsthand. We understand the importance of including family in these decisions, so feel free to bring them too – we’d love to see you all.

Start the conversation this festive season and take the first steps in making your ideal retirement a reality at Oak Tree Coffs Harbour.

Stage 2 is under construction now!

Open for inspection Monday to Thursday 10am – 2pm.

6 Domain Drive, Coffs Harbour Call 1300 367 155

oaktreegroup.com.au

14/11/2023 9:12 am

COFFS COAST focus 7

Mediterranean eats. Lo-fi beats.

The place where everyone meets.

Opening early December.

ESMÉ is set to make its mark on the iconic Coffs Harbour Jetty. We believe that the best mode is holiday mode, community is key and absolutely everyone is welcome.

Come for a feed or rally your favourites and make a day of it. Our event spaces can suit parties from 10 to 60.

Visit our website to learn more by scanning the QR code. @esmebarandkitchen Jetty Village, 59/361 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour, NSW

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COFFS COAST focus 13

ISSUE 1 55 - DECEMBER 2023 INTERVIEWS

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46

KARLEE RAWKINS

TOM GLEESON

DUNE RATS

Karlee Rawkins is a nationally recognised and award-winning artist and she will soon be showcasing her latest collection of works ‘Never Neverland’ locally at the Yarilla Arts Museum in Coffs Harbour.

Tom Gleeson will be performing his latest comedy show ‘Gear’ at C.ex in Coffs Harbour on the 16th December. So if you’re in need of a good laugh and a night of outrageous fun to round out the year… check it out!

Dune Rats will be playing at the Hoey Moey NYE party in Coffs Harbour on 31st December. We spoke to Coffs local,and band member Danny Beus about the upcoming gig and what the band has in store for us!

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

love to

32. PFLAG - Sam Dawson

F O C U S F E AT U R E

54. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 67. Health & Wellbeing - Sarah Ding 71. Alternative Health - Erin Birdsall 73. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

NICK JOHNSTONE

Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals.

82. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 96. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh

Thank you for your contribution to

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Welcome to the DECEMBER 2023 EDITION.

elcome to the final edition of 2023 - and our 155th edition.

Our team is more passionate and driven than ever and we can’t wait to bring you exciting new content in 2024. We would like to say a massive thanks to our wonderful advertisers and contributors that help keep FOCUS in circulation. Without your support we would not be here.

Coast icon continue on long into the future!

This month’s cover features Tiga Cross. Tiga has been involved with the recently renamed Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary (formerly Dolphin Marine Conservation Park) since she was in high school and has put everything she could muster into saving the animal sanctuary. Since taking over running the Sanctuary she has put things into place that should see this Coffs

Inside this edition Karlee Rawkins is a nationally recognised and award-winning artist whose bold and vibrant paintings evoke a feeling of wonder at the natural world around us and that of our imagination. She will be showcasing her latest collection of works ‘Never Neverland’ for the first time locally at the Yarilla Arts Museum in

Welcome Back Sam! It’s our pleasure to announce that Samantha Dawson has re-joined the FOCUS team as an advertising sales consultant from the January 2024 edition onwards! This woman is like a boomerang when it comes to FOCUS. She always finds her way back to us! Third time lucky! Why? Because she just loves us... and YOU! If you would like to get in touch with Sam, flick her an email sam@focusmag.com.au

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Contact us for more information.

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contacts.

Coffs Harbour from the 14th December - 4th February.

There are many community members doing it tough at the moment, and in the lead up to Christmas and the season of giving we thought we would chat to Anna Joy, Coordinator of the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, about what they, and other local essential support providers, have available to support the community this month.

We sat down with Yt DiNGO, the visionary artist behind the recently released single “Temptalien,” and delve into the depths of inspiration that shaped this mesmerising creation.

On behalf of the FOCUS team we would like to wish everyone a Happy and Safe Christmas and a fantastic New Year!

EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci Seccombe nicole@focusmag.com.au ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy info@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Bree McNickle wedeliverfocus@gmail.com

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. 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 material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Coffs Coast Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2022 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Australian Community Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

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Tiga

CROSS C O F F S C O A S T W I L D L I F E S A N C T U A R Y

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Tiga Cross has been involved with the recently renamed Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary (formerly Dolphin Marine Conservation Park) since she was in high school and has put everything she could muster into saving the animal sanctuary. Since taking over running the Sanctuary she has put things into place that should see this Coffs Coast icon continue long into the future!

H

ey Tiga, you've been a part of what is now Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary for over half your life. Tell us about how the journey began?

I’m an animal lover and carer from way back – mostly led by my Mum, who was a very active volunteer in WIRES ever since I can remember. I can recall being about four or five years old, caring for a kangaroo joey who had lost its mum – and I remember thinking how vulnerable this animal was, and how dependent it was on people, and me, to be able to survive the long life that it deserved.

I began working here as a year 10 Woolgoolga High School work experience student with really big dreams of helping wildlife of all sorts. I’d always volunteered with WIRES (which looks after land animals) and ORCCA (which looks after marine mammals), so the opportunity to extend this experience to include marine animals such as sea turtles and sea lions was a big drawcard. Plus, as a local to Woolgoolga, it meant that I could work with one of the Coffs Coast’s only marine rescue facilities. It gave me some pretty big

bragging rights at school back in the day!

I struggled at school with public speaking, but once I found something that I was passionate about, I was able to get excited, and it inspired me to become a NSW TAFE teacher to show others how they could do the same.

The past few months have been quite a rollercoaster for you. Tell us how you felt when you received the news Dolphin Marine was closing down?

Closing down was never an option in my mind. This iconic Coffs Coast icon needed to In the beginning, it took me a while to go stay open, and I, and my team, did everything from volunteer to employee status – but my that we could to make sure that the place determination to learn, stayed open. We and love of the place, appealed to potential shone through. I’ve owners to come and I began worked in every part of ‘save’ the park, but working here as the place – from front nobody came forward a year 10 Woolgoolga of house, bookings with the right vision High School work and the cafe pouring of what the animals, experience student coffees, through to staff, and community with really big cleaning buckets... needed. We engaged dreams of helping Now, 15 years later, I’m with local community wildlife of all sorts. I’d running the Sanctuary groups, businesses, and always volunteered and I’m so grateful that individuals, to share our with WIRES... we’re able to keep the vision for the future of place going – for the the Sanctuary, and to 40 animals who call individuals who rallied the Sanctuary their forever home, to the 50 with us to say ‘yes’ to keeping the sanctuary staff who work here every day, and of course, open. the 400 marine animals that we rescue and release each year.

Continued over...

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to be able to, but I knew that along the way, I’d done everything I could to keep us going, including my house, my family, and of course, my own future.

Who are some of the other businesses or people that have helped you since taking over the Sanctuary?

The Coffs Coast community as a whole have been very supportive of the Sanctuary staying open, and for the future that I have planned for this amazing and iconic space. We’ve had businesses, volunteers, wildlife groups, and individuals rally to Each day, as support us. Each day, as we continue we continue to create to create awareness awareness for the new for the new name name for the Sanctuary, for the Sanctuary, the work that we do, and the work that we do, the opportunity for others and the opportunity to act too, support for for others to act the Sanctuary continues to grow. too, support for the What inspired you to take over the Sanctuary and what was the process like?

We held a massive community fundraising event to raise funds. We ran barbeques at Bunnings, raffles at markets, and we appealed to the greater business community.

While the support was great, at some point I realised that it just wasn’t enough.

My husband, Brian, and I were chatting 20 COFFS COAST focus

Sanctuary continues

one night, and I said to grow.. ‘wouldn’t it be great if I could save it’... His response was, ‘well, why don’t we try’. This has definitely been a team effort for Brian and I, and with his support, we went full-swing into making our best effort to bring together the community support, as well as rallying our own finances to give it everything we could to stay open.

For a long time, I wasn’t sure that I was going

Only a few weeks in, what changes have you implemented so far?

It’s been a steep learning curve, that’s for sure! While I’ve worked on site for 15 years, and had an intricate knowledge of all things relating to the animal care and nurturing the skills of the marine mammal team, now I’m wearing a few extra hats, including the running of the Peckish Penguin cafe at the Sanctuary. We’ve

C O F F S C O A S T W I L D L I F E S A N C T U A R Y

We’re going

introduced a new menu, hired new staff, and are excited to welcome people back to the Sanctuary. With some new exhibits on the way, and a facelift for the Sanctuary it’s a great place to visit on the Coffs Coast – as a tourist, and of course, for the locals.

With so much happening, what's your personal favourite part about the Wildlife Sanctuary?

Do I have to pick one? Well, as far as progress is concerned, I’m most proud that now the Sanctuary is a true not for profit organisation. This is a huge stepping stone for the Sanctuary, making it easier for people to support us to do what we do, and to stay open well into the future. I also love that the staff and animals in our care were able to stay on at the Sanctuary, and that we can continue to provide an education and experience space for our locals, and visitors to the Coffs Coast.

With school holidays coming up, what are some of the events you have on?

We have a couple to offer even of very exciting new more education exhibits coming up displays, and we’ll Coffs Coast Wildlife (stay tuned for more be increasing the Sanctuary heading into exciting news!). availability of one of your future?

We’re launching a our very favourite We may have been here membership program programs, Animal for more than 53 years, for the locals too, Carer Experience but the future of the so that people living Sanctuary looks bigger on the Coffs Coast and better than ever can come again (and before. We’re working again!) to the Sanctuary to learn, explore, tirelessly with a few key partners to develop and have a great day out together. As we a Wildlife Clinic to help injured terrestrial kick into school holidays, we’re going to wildlife – particularly as the Coffs Coast offer even more education displays, and we’ll comes into the season of high winds and be increasing the availability of one of our bushfires, when our land animals need us very favourite programs, the Animal Carer the most. We’re also working on some new Experience. This gives kids and teens the displays to showcase the wildlife offering of opportunity to come and shadow a marine the coast and its ecosystems, to include our mammal specialist for a day, and get a great local wetlands, rainforests, and even more of behind the scenes experience with our team the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Come down and our animals. and take a look.

What plans do you have that you can share with us about the future of

Thanks Tiga.

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1

TWILIGHT FOOD MARKETS

The Twilight Food Market is held every Friday (weather permitting) from the beginning of September each year to mid-April the next year. It is a family-friendly, pet-friendly food only market, diverse in multicultural cuisine and lots of choices for the kids. Bring a blanket or chair, a bottle of wine or beer and kick back and enjoy the entertainment.

When Every Friday Where Park Beach Reserve Time 4pm until 9pm

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JETT Y THEATRE 2024 SEASON L AUNCH

The Season Launch is a sneak peek of the exciting lineup of shows carefully curated for our 2024 Season. Local legend Kelly Mac will keep us laughing as MC and enjoy a special guest performance celebrating the essence of French music featuring highlights from Paris after Dark with Award-Winning Milko Foucault-Larche and Parisian-born Entertainer Corinne Andrew. When 8th December Where Jetty Theatre Tickets $25 from jettytheatre.com 22 COFFS COAST focus

DECEMBER 202 3

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MAMMA MIA THE CONCERT Featuring The Ten Sopranos. With meticulous detail spent on every note sung, The Ten Sopranos present a jaw dropping vocal delivery of the very best of ABBA. Mamma Mia the Concert is a masterful and stimulating performance of the ABBA repertoire never before seen in Australia.

When 9th December Where Jetty Theatre Tix jettytheatre.com

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COFFS COAST CAROLS

Coffs Coast Carols brings the whole community together to celebrate Christmas in true Coffs style – laid back and family friendly. Bring a picnic blanket and join the fun. Enjoy a range of delicious food stalls and kids activities. Listen to all your favourite carols. When 16th December Where Brelsford Park, Coffs Harbour Time 6:30pm until 9pm

TOM GLEESON

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Tom’s got new gear! Come watch this goldplated comedy superstar with his brand-new show. A chance to see the master at work.

When 16th December Where Cex Coffs Tickets cex.com.au

DUNE R ATS

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Dunies have covered some ground in 2023! 47 shows in the USA, Canada, Europe and the UK + a string of Aussie festival dates including a massive Splendour In The Grass set featuring The Angels. New music is in the works, a trip to South Africa is imminent, before they roll back into the Aussie Summer for more shows around the country, capping off the year in Danny’s hometown of Coffs Harbour!

When 31st December Where Hoey Moey Tickets $55.10 from oztix.com

A R T I S T of the M O N T H

Karlee Rawkins Karlee Rawkins is a nationally recognised and award-winning artist whose bold and vibrant paintings evoke a feeling of wonder at the natural world around us and that of our imagination. She will be showcasing her latest collection of works ‘Never Neverland’ for the first time locally at the Yarilla Arts Museum in Coffs Harbour from the 14th December - 4th February.

C

an you introduce yourself to our readers and tell us a bit about your background as an artist?

Has your art practice always been a big part of

your life?

I am a painter, a Mum of three boys and an ally for people with Down Syndrome. I have been working as an artist since studying Visual Arts at uni, but the story starts much earlier I

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guess. Even as a child I would draw extensively filling up reams of paper with scribbles and pictures. Painting is the medium that I really found my joy with and have been practising now for thirty years.

You’ve been recognised with some pretty significant awards and residencies, could you share some of your career highlights so far?

A huge highlight was winning the Brett Whiteley Travelling Art Scholarship and being

able to travel Europe for nine months and stay at the International Arts Centre in Paris.

The museums and galleries there were an extraordinary experience. I also visited New York at that time. This journey really gave me perspective on my own practice and my identity as an Australian, and an appreciation of the context I work within.

I have also travelled through Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos, where I did a lot of drawing and some mural projects. The colours

and patterns of Asia greatly influenced my work and changed my sense of possibility with colour combining and intensity.

You’re about to open an exhibition here in Coffs, can you give us a sneak peek into what visitors can expect to see and experience at this particular showcase?

the parent of a child with a disability so ideas around how we see and value things interest me greatly. I am grateful to have an opportunity to live life with a unique perspective. I hope to convey a sense of this joy, and the challenges, in my work.

I think a lot about how we can feel isolated on our own journeys, and then what connects This exhibition is a series of colourful paintings us too. How can I visually represent these referencing some of the subjects and motifs ideas? Ultimately my from the story of Peter work celebrates diversity, Pan by J.M. Barrie. it is an invitation to So we have islands, I have a vision think differently, to see palms, parrots and impairment possibilities. the mermaid lagoon. and am also the This is my version of What or who were parent of a child Neverland! There is a some of your primary with a disability so video to watch, a behind sources of inspiration ideas around how we the scenes peek into my for this particular studio and process, plus body of work? see and value things some beautiful pastel interest me greatly.

My eldest son Raji is drawings from my eldest fifteen and has Down son.

Syndrome. His boundless What themes or messages are prevalent in this collection, and why are they important to you at this moment in your artistic journey?

Essentially this series explores perception and how we all see and experience differently.

I have a vision impairment and am also

creativity and drawings have always been an influence on my work.

For this series we stepped this up to a collaborative process. I asked Raji to help me with this show, tell me what to do, and to do drawings that I would then paint about. So it was Raji’s idea to do islands, magic islands.

He drew probably 200 pastel drawings for me over the last year, then we distilled these down to key compositions and motifs. From there I painted my large version of them. He continued to draw, responding to the works appearing around him. This was a really effective and fun process.

Continued over...

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A R T I S T of the M O N T H Neverland of course is the ultimate fantasy layers. They know the rules involved and are island. I looked at early illustrations from surprisingly respectful of how this can work. the story of Peter Pan, they are incredibly They appreciate the opportunity. How fun is whimsical and poetic. Flying ships, mermaids, it to paint on a canvas that is five times your flamingos, lagoons height, as it would be for and fairies. It was a my four year old! rich source to tap into Working with children My painting with many lovely ideas process is to reference, and a intuitive and based few that took some on responding to consideration to tackle, a developing and such as the narrative changing composition. around the Native Risk taking is an American camp there.

Do you have any special moments that stand out to you from working on this series with your son/s?

What has been most rewarding about the experience for you?

important part of my process so letting my kids have a go, adds a surprise element, an act that I have no control over.

I allow my three sons to add to my canvases at certain times, they absolutely love it and add some wonderful shapes, patterns or under 28 COFFS COAST focus

can be such a joy, they tend to offer a very unfiltered perspective and great enthusiasm.

The mark making created adds to the diversity of textures on my canvas and provides a challenge for me to incorporate the elements they have contributed.

My painting process is intuitive and based on responding to a developing and changing composition. Risk taking is an important part of my process so letting my kids have a go adds a surprise element, an act that I have no control over. So in this way I can stretch

myself as a painter, keeping myself engaged and challenged. It is also poignant because most of my work themes relate to my role as a mother and my relationship with my sons in some way.

I have always used this method as a tool, or device, in my work process but taking this next step of giving it more focus and recognition has meant a greater understanding of my practice for me.

It is an exciting broadening of options, and a new chapter where my practice as an artist and my parenting meets more. I have always found this meeting point interesting, it is the juicy bit!

You often exhibit your work at galleries all around Australia, but what does it mean to you to be having this exhibition locally?

I normally only exhibit in the main cities, so this is my first exhibition here and it certainly

affected my plans for the show. To be showing in my home town is much more intimate and a bit intimidating! My community will be viewing this, whereas usually I tend to encounter people I don’t know at my openings, so it’s less personal.

I am excited though, this show provided an opportunity to be honest and more bold in some ways. It was certainly part of the momentum to approach this as a collaboration with Raji. It seemed the right time and place.

When and where can we catch this exciting show?

‘Never Neverland’ can be viewed from the 14 December - 4 February at the sensational new Yarilla Arts and Museum, Gordon St, Coffs Harbour. I will also be having an opening event and workshops so check their website for details around that. Come along, I invite you to see things differently!

Thanks Karlee.

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T E M P T A L I E N

Yt DiNGO We sat down with Yt DiNGO, the visionary artist behind the recently released single “Temptalien,” and we delved into the depths of inspiration that shaped this mesmerising creation. From the allure of external temptations to transformative collaborations with Anindilyakwa voices, Yt DiNGO shares the journey that led to the birth of “Temptalien.” As the artist explores the filmic aspects of his work, blending music, dance and storytelling, he takes us behind the scenes of the music video set on the Ship Notorious, accompanied by the mystical tales of mermaids shared by collaborators Angela and Emily Wurramara.

H

ey Trav, you recently released a new single called Temptalien. Can you give us some insight into the inspiration behind the song?

The inspiration for Temptalien comes from those moments in life where we are drawn towards external temptations without knowing where they will ultimately lead us. Sometimes, these temptations can pull us away from our balanced selves, while other times they can lead us on a life-changing path for the better. The film aspect of the song was inspired by beautiful collaborations in music and storytelling, as well as the incredible Ship Notorious. Additionally, repetitive patterns in my personal life, stemming from a traumatic experience during my teenage years that ran a pattern until my early thirties, 30 COFFS COAST focus

also contributed to the inspiration for the song.

Temptalien has brought me clarity and healing, allowing me to reflect on my own growth.

Now I can share these stories with others through the recorded song, music video, and live performances that incorporate my band, multimedia, and dance. Another significant source of inspiration came from Angela and Emily, who shared their magical stories from their country, including stories about mermaids.

The synchronicity of their stories aligning with the concept of Temptalien, along with the presence of mermaids in Angela's home decorations and tattoos. My partner Bindimu drawing herself as a mermaid not knowing I was writing the song, further solidified the need to collaborate with them and incorporate their voices and language into the song.

Can you give us a glimpse into the creative

concept for the music video of Temptalien?

The music video begins on the balcony where Angela and Emily shared their stories, before transitioning to the ship and the ocean. Yt DiNGO, alone at sea, finds himself reflecting on the imprint of colonialism and the diseases it has brought upon him. Emily Wurramara, a spirit on the ship, sings him towards the ocean, where he encounters characters of himself lured by different temptations that he must overcome with the help of Anindilyakwa women.

Eventually, he forms a connection with a First Nations mermaid, leading him to leave the ship behind and embark on a journey of knowledge and growth. Matriarch mermaid Angela Wurramara, singing in Anindilyakwa, is among the mermaids awaiting him. Through ceremony and surrendering to the unknown, Yt DiNGO's colonised mindset is transformed, and he is

nurtured by the wisdom and leadership of these trusted lawkeepers of the ocean.

How does Temptalien fit into your overall musical journey and future direction?

joined us for swimming scenes in the mermaid tails. They are incredible women, very talented and good swimmers obviously growing up in Gumbaynggirr. I feel fortunate to have had their playful spirits throughout the project.

Of course, the magic ship Notorious and its owners Graham and Felicite played a significant role as well. We built a connection over three years and their involvement added to the magic of the whole experience literally filming in the ocean. Finally, David Fischer, the director from Que Films in Meanjin, worked tirelessly to bring my vision to life. He made many creative choices and put in a tremendous effort, even in challenging circumstances. Despite losing a drone in the process, he persevered and delivered amazing work.

Performing Temptalien live is an exhilarating experience considering we got to open the Splendour in the Grass Festival 2023 on the main amphitheatre stage! The song is powerful, with a wide vocal range that requires me to blend metal, rap, and sung elements. I incorporate intricate dance styles that align with the lyrics.

Musically it includes 3 incredible men I love spending time with who have amazing discipline to their crafts. Local Gumbaynggirr talent Manduway Dutton on piano and synths.

Melbourne Orchestra player Jennen Ngiau-Keng on violin and of course my long term producer, drummer in the Resin Doggs, who played for Azalea Banks and Wolfmother - Dave Atkins.

With Temptalien under the belt what's in store next?

Eventually, he forms a connection with a First Nations mermaid, leading him to leave the ship behind and embark on a journey of knowledge and growth.

Temptalien has helped deepen my connection to my Scottish roots and has opened up new possibilities for what's to come beyond this song and film. It has given me the enthusiasm to perform more shows and has strengthened my relationship with my collaborators, with whom I now regularly share the stage, time, and space. This song has the potential to become a live production or an in-depth movie.

Collaborations are an essential part of the music industry. Can you tell us about the artists, producers, and dancers you worked with on this single and how they contributed to the final product?

I had the pleasure of working with Emily Wurramara and Angela Wurramara, who sang and shared their Anindilyakwa language on the song. They also performed in the music video and hopefully will connect to performing live with me. Additionally, my partner Bindimu designed the mermaid tails and my wearable art and she acted as one of the mermaids in the video. She is incredibly talented! Shavonne Barlow and Tahani Berger, two local First Nations girls from Urunga and Bellingen, also

You recently completed the Sister Cities tour in Brunswick Heads and Bellingen.

What do you enjoy most about performing Temptalien live, and how do you connect with your audience through it?

For the regional tour I had a very broken down version but I had mermaid twins Kahli Coolwell and Vanessa Coolwell on stage with me and Redbelly as my Deejay. The audience thrives on our connection on stage and the stories told.

They also love the excuse to dance how they wish. My goal is to perform this song with my full band and have Emily and Angela join me.

I had Angela join me at Splendour which was phenomenal. The energy between myself and the audience is fueled by the shared desire for deeper connections with country, roots, and the preservation of a safer planet for future generations, and mainly to just loose our shit and have a dam dance for the fkn gratitude of being alive haha!

Hopefully performing this live and with Emily and Angela! There is another song film single to arrive that ties in under the water where a Gaelic mermaid arrives to take Yt DiNGO to his Indigenous roots... we got to perform a taste of this at Splendour including a Gaelic collaboration. It felt like I was getting to truly speak to country from my ancestors. I won’t say too much more but the beats coming are off their heads!

Thanks.

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focus_contributor.

PFLAG with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

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World AIDS Day is held on 1 December each year and this year marks the 35th commemoration of this important day with the theme being Remember and Commit.

t raises awareness across the world and in the community about HIV and AIDS. It is a day for the community to show their support for people living with HIV and to commemorate people who have died of AIDS related conditions or other conditions associated with HIV. HIV can affect anyone. There is no vaccine or cure for HIV, however there are highly effective treatments. People with HIV take medications on a daily basis to maintain their HIV at an undetectable level and to keep them healthy. Today, HIV is considered a chronic but manageable condition, and people with HIV can lead long and healthy lives, with a similar life expectancy to a person who does not have HIV. HIV does not discriminate, people do. Stigma and discrimination will continue to exist so long as societies as a whole continue to judge people with HIV. You can help change this by gaining a better understanding of HIV and encouraging others to learn too.

So take the first step - inform yourself about HIV. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a condition that can cause AIDS (Acquired 32 COFFS COAST focus

Immune Deficiency Syndrome). HIV and AIDS are not the same thing.

certain cancers — diseases that wouldn’t usually trouble a person with a healthy immune system.

Left untreated, HIV attacks the body’s immune People living with HIV in Australia may still system making the body develop AIDS, but this is vulnerable to infections now rare.

Everyone and medical conditions This year on the 1st deserves to that the immune system December 2023 come live with dignity and would normally be capable dressed in a red T-shirt and respect, and have the of controlling. People who join the Rainbow Club in same opportunity have newly acquired HIV front of The Big Banana – to build good lives can experience flu like 6- 8 pm which will be lit for themselves, symptoms, but others do up in red. There will be a regardless of their not notice any symptoms community photograph gender identity or for many years. and social time afterwards

expression.

AIDS is not an with informal discussions interchangeable term around HIV awareness. with HIV. People with To find out more contact HIV take daily treatment to prevent the virus Robyn or Victor on their FB group. from advancing into AIDS. Without treatment, PFLAG+ is here to give help, support and share people with HIV are at risk of developing AIDS. information to families and friends to everyone AIDS refers to the illnesses that can develop as in LGBTQAP+ community right here on the a result of untreated HIV or in a person where Coffs Coast. current treatments have failed, and occurs when pflagaustralia.org.au a person’s immune system has been severely PFLAG+coffcoast damaged by HIV infection. People living with 0417 861 045 AIDS will be more likely to develop infections or

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from the Coramba Hotel

COVER DISH PORCINI MUSHROOM ARANCINI WITH TRUFFLE OIL AND PARMESAN.

O NE O F AUS TR A L IA’ S F INES T L IV E ACT S

LISA Hunt

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isa began singing in that great African American tradition, the gospel church, where she laid the foundation of her soulful singing style. She went on to study voice at The City College of New York where she received a BFA in music. Her debut album was ‘ A Little Piece Of Magic’ for Universal/Polydor, and as a singer/ songwriter she has sold more than a million records. Strange for someone you’ve probably never heard of until now, but hey, that’s showbiz!

Lisa was an international chart topper in the UK with LOVESTATION’s ‘Soulsation’ CD. American soundtracks compositions include HBO’s ‘Subway Stories’ (directed by Jonathan Demme), ‘Goodnight Moon’ with LAURYN HILL, NATALIE COLE, PATTI LABELLE, BILLY CRYSTAL & SUSAN SARANDON. Lisa’s studio credits include sessions with famed producers Jellybean Benitez (Madonna), Toni C (Whitney), Frank Farion (LaBouche, Milli Vanilli), The Berman Brothers

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(Amber, Ultra Nate) and many more. Her voice can be heard on several top 10 dance tracks all over the world including being “the voice” of LOVESTATION (UK), CLUB X (Germany), and D1 (USA). In Italy she has been the featured vocalist on tour and recordings of ZUCCHERO Sugar Fornaciari and has worked with a range of artists from PAVAROTTI to RAY CHARLES (check her out on Pavarotti and friends). She has also shared the stage with musical greats such as ERIC CLAPTON, JAMES BROWN, DIONNE WARWICK, BRIAN MAY, RANDY CRAWFORD, JOE COCKER, MILES DAVIS, and ANDREA BOCELLI At Present Lisa Hunt’s Forever Soul is still going strong. In fact, these have been the most successful years in the tour’s history. The Soul Train will be stopping in all your favourite stations, so get on board y’all!!

Catch Lisa Hunt at the Seaview Tavern on Saturday 2nd Dec

THIRSTY MERC LIVE AT THE HOEY

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aving released 4 critically acclaimed albums, over 250,000 album sales under their belt, a finalist in the APRA Song of the Year for 20 Good Reasons (which also reached #1 on iTunes in Australia), 5 ARIA Award nominations, Thirsty Merc have found their way into the fabric of Australia’s musical landscape.

Thirsty Merc formed in Sydney in 2002 releasing their debut EP, First Work, in September 2003, before being signed to Warner Music. The band’s big break came in 2004 with the release of their debut, self titled album which included the hits, Someday Someday and In The Summertime (the theme for Bondi Rescue since 2006).

Two more studio albums followed - Slideshows in 2007 (#4 ARIA Album) and Mousetrap Heart in 2010 (#14 on the ARIA Album chart) which included radio staples, 20 Good Reasons, Mousetrap Heart and Tommy and Krista.

Thirsty Merc marked the 10-year milestone since the release of their self-titled, double platinum

debut LP with the announcement of their Acoustic Anniversary Album and national tour. Dubbed ‘AAA’ the album is a collection of acoustic interpretations of fan favourites.

In 2015, Thirsty Merc released Shifting Gears, their first wholly independent and first new material in five years, and spent the next 18 months crossing the country on 3 extensive tours, running up thousands of Frequent Flyer points and sold out shows.

The first single The Good Life was nominated for Rock Work Of The Year at the 2017 APRA awards.

Fast forward to 2023 - Thirsty Merc have a brand new song locked and loaded for a mid year release, and are soon to be embarking on a massive anniversary tour aptly named the 20 Good Years Tour. Watch this space for updates!

Catch Thirsty Merc at the Hoey Moey on Friday 8th December.

Tickets available from hoeymoey.com.au

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Christmas

FOOD DRIVE

SUPPORTING THE UNITING CHURCH SOUP KITCHEN

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ver the last few years, Sawtell RSL has developed a close relationship with the Uniting Church Soup Kitchen, supporting them by way of food drives and as recipients of our Club Grants Scheme.

We are once again, asking our wonderful community to support our 6th Christmas Food Drive by adding a few extra items to your next grocery shop and dropping them off to the Club's reception. The food donations provide the soup kitchen with the ingredients they require to create nutritious, tasty meals for the

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local homeless who use the service that is run entirely by volunteers.

Items needed include, non-perishables, canned items that have a ring pull seal including canned meats and fish, fruit, vegetables, custard, long life milk, noodles, pasta, coffee and tea bags, sugar, cornflour, individual serve cereal boxes, mayonnaise, pickles and paper towels to mention a few.

The demand on the kitchen has grown over time but the volunteer team have a policy that no one is refused a meal. You come in, you sit down at one of the tables and we will serve you. No questions asked.

Items can be dropped off at the club until Sunday December 17. For any more information, please call Kate Drum on 6653 1577.

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AHA NSW REGIONAL CHEF OF THE YEAR

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hen did you first become interested in cookery as a career?

In my late teens, I had an amazing teacher and she put me on the right path.

What training did you undertake and where was your first job?

I went to Catering College in Ireland and my first job was in Hotel Europe, Killarney. This is in a very popular tourist location and I worked with chefs from all over the world. It was a fantastic introduction to the catering world and I was bitten by the bug.

When it comes to creating a seasonal menu what do you take into consideration.

We strive to showcase the best of each season.

First and foremost is the availability of fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. We also ensure a variety of options to cater to different dietary preferences and restrictions.

What local produce features on the menu?

We try and support local whenever we can.

Our chicken is from Tamworth, lamb is from Cowra, beef from Riverina and Casino and lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber are from Kempsey and Nana Glen.

What is your favourite dish on the menu currently and why?

I have two, Gnocchi Sorrentino and Coconut Barramundi Curry, both for the texture and

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flavours and the different components that make up both dishes.

When it comes to special events and functions, what range of food and services can you offer.

I spent a few years in the south of France in my early twenties which was a great eye opener for me regarding culture, traditions and flavours.

influenced me over my career, like travelling and experiencing different cuisines and many chefs who have taught me a variety of cooking techniques over the years.

We offer a sensational seafood grazing table, charcuterie tables, and a selection of finger food that caters for all dietary needs. Our High Tea is also very popular and we are happy to sit down with the customer to create a menu.

I spent a few years in the south of France in my early twenties which was a great eye opener for me regarding culture, traditions and flavours.

Where do you source new ideas from?

We aim to change it seasonally, to reflect the availability of fresh ingredients and keep up with culinary trends. We also offer daily specials that help us provide new dishes to keep our loyal customers happy.

Traveling. Every time we travel, we try the country or region cuisine and do our best to incorporate that into our menus with our own twist. Social media, magazines, cookbooks, suppliers introducing new products that we can incorporate into our menus, networking, collaborating with other chefs, switching up old recipes and adding something new, trial and error, and of course feedback from our wonderful customers.

How often do you change the menu?

Throughout your career - what famous chefs have you admired and why?

What would you say is the biggest influence in your cooking?

Marco Pierre White. He was one of the youngest chefs to be awarded 3 Michelin Stars and shaped the culinary scene in Ireland and the UK, just as I was beginning my career and Rick Stein, purely for his knowledge of seafood, and in my opinion one of the best.

There is a combination of factors that have

Thanks Damien.

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Jamie Everson 20 YEARS IN THE KITCHEN

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hen did you first become interested in being a chef?

From as young as I can remember. I was always in the kitchen helping Mum or Nan cook dinner or bake cakes, scones and biscuits.

I used to pretend to have my own cooking show in the backyard when I was about 6 years old.

What training did you undertake and where was your first job?

During high school I completed a school based traineeship so that I could complete Year 12 and gain trade certification at the same time.

I started an apprenticeship straight after high school. My first job was as a kitchen hand at the age of 13 at the 'Golden Eagle' Chinese restaurant, at a golf club in Casino, NSW. When it comes to creating a seasonal menu what do you take into consideration?

Seasonal availability of ingredients, climate and the season itself, customer preferences and industry trends.

What local produce features on the menu?

We use fresh fish caught and supplied locally from Coffs Harbour, pork and beef from

Casino and salad and herbs from Nana Glen.

influence in your cooking?

What is your favourite dish on the menu currently and why?

Certainly the wide array of cuisines that I have worked with in the past. I have been fortunate to have worked in many different types of restaurants with traditional styles from around the world.

Our Thai Green Papaya Salad. It's a refreshing and vibrant salad with the most wonderful crunchy texture. We I have been currently serve it with fortunate to lightly battered soft shell have worked in crab, but you could have many different it with prawns, calamari or grilled chicken. types of restaurants When it comes to special events and functions, what range of food and services can you offer?

with traditional styles from around the world.

We offer all kinds of catering packages that suit small intimate groups, up to large numbers in the hundreds.

From grazing tables to buffets, we specialise in hosting birthdays, baby showers, engagement parties and weddings.

How often do you change the menu?

Seasonally. It's as important to keep the menu fresh and exciting as possible for our customers. We do keep a hold of some signature dishes, like our Eggplant Parmigiana, Seafood Trio and Valley Burger.

Throughout your career - what famous chefs have you admired and why?

Cook books help, alot! Whether old-fashioned or contemporary, they're very handy and always give me plenty of ideas when I'm needing some inspiration.

Peter Gilmore was always a chef that I had admired the most for his creativity and love of nature. It was an honor to have worked under him at Quay restaurant in Sydney.

Gordon Ramsay and Marco Pierre White are two fearless chefs of great talent and determination that inspired me to be a more disciplined chef.

What would you say is the biggest

Thanks Jamie.

Where do you source new ideas from?

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Tom Gleeson will be performing his latest comedy show ‘Gear’ at C.ex in Coffs Harbour on the 16th December.

So if you’re in need of a good laugh and a night of outrageous fun to round out the year… check it out!

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Basically, I'm sharing a lot of my dodgy opinions and telling a few tall stories of revenge.

I've got a good story about how I caught someone trying to steal my Volvo in Melbourne.

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i Tom. What led you to take up a career as a comedian? What draws you to want to perform?

It was not really a conscious decision. I was at university studying a Science Degree, and I went into a comedy competition, I won it, and I won $500. So then I did another gig and I got paid money for that, and I was just being paid to do comedy.

So I graduated and I thought, well, I'll just keep doing comedy because it pays okay, so I just kept doing it. That was in 1996 and I just didn't stop ...and now I'm here.

You’ve performed on stage, TV and radio, what do you enjoy about each of those platforms? Do you have a favourite?

They’re all good for different reasons.

Like when you perform live, you can really push the boat out, you can really go out there and if it’s a stand up show, I'm always trying to talk about topics that are a little bit, you know... make people sit up in their seats, maybe confront people a little bit; I like to poke and provoke the crowd a bit, so that's fun. But there's a bit of a safety net because, when I'm in say, Port Macquarie or Coffs Harbour, you're in the venue with the crowd. It's kind of generally accepted that what gets said in the room stays in the room, because we can all handle it. If anyone doesn't like it, they can heckle me, so it's kind of like a closed loop and I like that part of it. But when you're doing TV, if you say something particularly evil and funny, and you're happy with it, you know a million people are going to see it. So as a show off, TV can be really fun, because if you do something good, everybody's going to see it!

You’re bringing your stand up show ‘Gear’ to Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour in December. How would you describe the theme or tone of this tour, and what can audiences expect in terms of the content you'll be exploring?

Well, Gear is another word for material in stand up circles, often comedians will say ‘I'm trying out some new gear’. So the

show is my current ‘Gear’ - my new show.

I don't know, it's sort of hard to give a sense of it. Like sometimes when you give a shopping list of a show, it sort of doesn't sound so exciting. Basically, I'm sharing a lot of my dodgy opinions and telling a few tall stories of revenge. I've got a good story about how I caught someone trying to steal my Volvo in Melbourne and just a range of stories of things that have happened to me lately.

Where do you usually draw inspiration from when writing or coming up with material? What’s your process like when putting a show together?

Essentially, I tell true stories about my life and then at the end of the show, I always invite the audience to scrutinise the stories. I always finish the show by telling people how true this show is. I give them a percentage and then I get them to try to guess which bits were lies and then I correct the record so that when they leave they've got their money's worth. I also give them their last chance - you're about to go, so if you're upset about anything, you can heckle me now and we’ll deal with it, rather than whinging about it on Facebook later!

One thing I always take note of is whenever I'm out and about at a party or dinner party, sometimes it's really interesting when the conversation turns to a certain subject and they hang on it for a long time. So I might get home and I think oh, wow, everyone was talking about their cars for like an hour. Okay, so suddenly then, when someone tries to steal my car, I think there's something in that, that's going to capture people's imagination. So usually, it's just any subject that people are really stuck on.. especially subjects that people get really fired up on at around 11 o'clock at night at a party when they’ve had a bit to drink. That’s usually gold.

How do you decide what’s working well and what’s not? Do you ever cut or change material during a tour or do audience reactions ever influence your performance?

I do it during the show, because when I'm performing live, I'm constantly listening to the crowd. So you know, if I feel like the crowd’s engaged with a particular thing, I'll talk about it for longer. If I can feel them sort of cooling off a bit, I might change to something else, so I'm constantly adjusting the show to the crowd. What crowds don’t realise is, they basically select the show that they see.

What they react to is what they get. So if you're performing your show and early on you say something and the crowd goes “oooh” and they seem to think you're being too edgy, they get a really safe, s**t show. Where as if they applaud when something really edgy happens they get a very exciting, over the top show. You know, it depends how the crowd receives you. I do the show several times, so I'm not doing it for my own satisfaction.

I'm doing it for the crowd. So if crowds are enthusiastic and encourage poor behaviour, then I deliver.

Looking beyond the current tour, are there any new projects or comedic endeavours on the horizon that you're particularly excited about?

Well, this tour will run all the way into the end of next year. This is just the beginning of touring around Australia. Taskmaster Season Two is going to be back on Channel 10 at the beginning of next year and we're going to be recording Taskmaster Season Three in March. I'm just about to do the last week of Season Nine of Hard Quiz, that goes to air next year, and we're signed up for Season 10. So there's a whole lot of TV still coming out.

Where can readers find more info on the show or get tickets?

The easiest place to go is comedy.com.au.

If you go to that page, you can click on my name and all the dates are there for all the shows, not just for Port Macquarie and Coffs shows, but all of them... in case people might want to go for a drive to Toowoomba or something to see the show..!

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Anna Joy There are many community members doing it tough at the moment, and in the lead up to Christmas and the season of giving, we thought we would chat to Anna Joy, Coordinator of the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre about what they, and other local essential support providers, have available to support the community this month.

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an you tell us a little about yourself and your role?

I have been fortunate to live and work on Gumbaynggirr Country for 23 years and call Bellingen home. My working life has been spent in the community services sector and previous roles include youth work, disability support work and coordination, community development and community planning. I have been the Coordinator of Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre since August 2021 and could not imagine working anywhere else.

For people who don’t know about the Neighbourhood Centre, can you explain what they are and what role they play in the community?

Neighbourhood Centres are inclusive, safe and welcoming community spaces. We brand ourselves as ‘the place to go when you don’t know where to go’ and are located in the Community Village, off Harbour Drive. For readers unfamiliar with The Community Village, it is a great community hub where community

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COFFS HARBOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

services including Pete’s Place, North Coast Settlement Services, Meals on Wheels, Council’s Venues Team and the Chill n Chat Café, are colocated. We receive some funding through the Department of Communities and Justice but a lot of our essential support is funded through donations.

Bright Sparks Homework Learning Club and Oz Harvest to distribute fruit, vegetables, meat and bread through a ‘shop’ open 5 mornings a week. The Voice Up Support Group and programs for survivors of child abuse who have just celebrated their 10-year anniversary is also a project of the Neighbourhood Centre.

What programs and We work with Be activities are you Neighbourhood Connected to deliver a running currently?

Centres are range of digital skills and In addition to providing inclusive, safe and mentoring programs, information, advocacy welcoming and support the Coffs and referrals, we community spaces.

Coast Community currently have free We brand ourselves Drug Action Team. We counselling, legal as ‘the place to go work closely with Coffs advice, computer, when you don’t Coast Volunteering, phone, and forms know where to go.

Coffs Harbour’s own support available. volunteering matchmaking We provide space for service and the Aged the No Interest Loans Care Volunteer and Visitors Scheme which Scheme and Financial Counselling, services places volunteers in residential aged care delivered by Lifetime Connect and the Mid facilities for social support. We support people North Coast Financial Counselling Service.

We work in partnership with many groups; with essential items including pantry food, Wesley Mission to deliver the Emergency nappies, pet food, toiletries and shelter items.

Relief Program, The Smith Family to run the We have a low-cost rental list, offer low-cost

photocopying, printing and room hire. This is only a snapshot, there are LOTS of things going on!

Who comes to the Neighbourhood Centre, and can you give us a taste of what happens in a usual day there?

The people that come to the Neighbourhood Centre reflect the diverse communities of Coffs Harbour. Seeing different ages, cultures and lifestyles interact and develop friendships is common and so heartwarming. When we open at 9am, there is usually a queue of people waiting; some will come in to use Please reach out the computers, borrow if you need a phone or a charger, support. Our team of some want a number for volunteers and our more at this time of the fruit and veg shop, connections to services year. some are here to use and groups ensures There is so much help one of our rooms for a that if we can’t assist, available through the training course, someone we will know someone Neighbourhood Centre is here for a counselling who can. and the generous Coffs appointment or someone community always, and wants to drop off some donations. This usually the lead up to Christmas happens whilst the phone is ringing hot… is no exception. Members of the Coffs Harbour Essentials Network are featured in the Breaking What are the biggest issues that people Bread Essential Support Directory and include who come to the Neighbourhood Centre The Salvation Army, Pete’s Place, Lifehouse for support are experiencing?

Care, Loaves and Fishes, Friends of the Family, The biggest issues we see are homelessness, Blue Sky Community Services, Coffs Harbour housing affordability and challenges relating to Local Aboriginal Lands Council, Bridging the the increased cost-of-living. There is financial Gap, St Vincent de Paul and the Uniting Church pressure on many community members with Soup Place. These groups and others support rising costs of essentials like food, medical, the community at Christmas and may be able transport and utility costs. People are coming to provide voucher support, food hampers, in regularly, saying they have never reached out low cost gifts for children and Christmas for help before, but they need help now. It is cheer by engaging local businesses to create not uncommon that people come in who, only gift baskets. The Breaking Bread brochure is weeks ago were working, housed and had an available from the Neighbourhood Centre. In income and due to a series of circumstances addition, the annual Christmas Day lunch will are now struggling, with nowhere to stay. We be going ahead. The free ‘Christmas Lunch see multiple people on a daily basis who have no stable accommodation; everyone’s situation 4 U’ event will build on the work of previous is different and can vary greatly. The availability organisors and is for those doing it tough, of affordable rental accommodation is limited feeling isolated or in need of some community in Coffs Harbour, as it is in lots of places, and spirit. It will be held at the Cavanbah Hall on the associated challenges seem to be impacting Monday 25 December and is an opportunity a bigger group of people. to make connections or reconnect with people met in previous years. Registrations are being With Christmas coming up, can you tell taken by the Neighbourhood Centre and the us what the Neighbourhood Centre and organisers; Ange, Mary, Nick and Lindsay some of the other local essential support providers can do to help people struggling would be very happy to hear from people

wanting to donate their time and/or funds for this event; call into the centre and we can put you in contact.

The holiday season can be difficult and bring about extra needs for some people.

What message would you like to get out to those members of the community about reaching out for help and support?

Please reach out if you need support. Our team of volunteers and our connections to services and groups ensures that if we can’t assist, we will know someone who can.

How can people get in touch and find out more about the services?

We are open Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm.

Our team of volunteers on the front desk are ready to greet you and everyone is welcome to drop in. We take lots of calls and for some people this might be the first step in making contact; our number is 6648 3694. We also have a website www.chnc.com.au and a Facebook page.

Anything else you want to add?

To provide support in the lead up to Christmas we are seeking donations of non-perishable pantry items to give out and would gratefully receive any donations to purchase vouchers for distribution. Please consider this if you can and we can pay it forward. Finally, I would like to give a big shout out to the team of volunteers; they go above and beyond to support people and quite simply, the Neighbourhood Centre would not be able to operate without them.

Thanks Anna.

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Dune Rats will be playing at the Hoey Moey NYE party in Coffs Harbour on 31st December. We spoke to Coffs local, and band member Danny Beus about the upcoming gig and what the band has in store for us!

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i guys, can you tell us about Dune Rats beginnings and how you all came together?

play some shows together. I remember he had a fluro arm cast on as he had broken his arm and he had a pretty infectious personality. We thought yeah, we should play some shows with this dude, and then just through playing I moved to Brisbane from shows and touring, we were constantly Coffs Harbour when I was hanging out, and we needed a bass player. just out of high school with the band I was in It had become pretty paramount that we from Coffs. We ended up dispersing, so then get a member of the band that was actually I started a new band, musically talented, so and me and BC met we asked Bretty if he at a band competition would join us. That Normally it where we both lost to was 10 years ago, and just comes a different band. We I'd say that was when were just getting drunk from us sitting the band really became at the bar that night, around, having a Dune Rats. kinda ragging on the

can come from either a guitar riff or a phrase

Talk us through what the creative process of making music is like for you?

a lot of the time we'll have experiences that

good time, usually trying to make each other laugh, and eventually it does end up turning into a serious song.

band that won I guess.

We were like, ‘Oh your band was way better’, and he was like ‘no, your band should have won’. We just ended up hitting it off over a few beers and that turned into us having a jam and we thought we should just start a band.

So it started off with just the two of us for a couple of years and then we met Brett. He was in a different band, and he ran across the road to say gidday and that maybe we should

I mean it's changed throughout the years. It started just sitting in the bedroom writing a song and taking it to the jam room and jamming it. But the last couple of years have been just finding a place, like a house somewhere, where we can just hang out for a couple of weeks and just sit around bringing in ideas that we've had. The nucleus of a song for us

or a melody that doesn’t even have words yet.

Normally it just comes from us sitting around, having a good time, usually trying to make each other laugh and eventually it does end up turning into a serious song.

Where do you guys often draw inspiration from? Is there anything or anyone that tends to influence your music?

Maybe what separates us off a little bit is it's not necessarily bands and music that inspires us. I think it's usually our mates, people we know, things we see and experience. We've always been a pretty heavy touring band, so become little influences. We’ve got mates from Byron, and we would often stay on their couches for a few years. They would always say b***s**t as a good thing and now we all say it as well. Zac Carper from the band Fidlar, who we are actually on tour with now in the UK, and who we worked with on the album The Kids All Know It’s B***s**t, was like ‘Oh man, it’s funny that Aussies say that as a term of endearment instead of a bad term’. So I guess we just write about what makes us, us.

Continued over...

COFFS COAST focus 47

You guys have been touring overseas before coming back to Australia for this next leg. What is life on tour like for the Dune Rats?

don’t know what I’d do if I couldn’t tour.

Can you share some of your most memorable experiences or funny moments from your recent tours?

It's weird, because touring, even though it's We’ve just been in South Africa, and now wild, you still have a lot of structure to your we’re in the UK. Brett's day. You’ve got your been growing a beard for manager who tells you about three years and we You meet so when you have to get were trying to figure out many people that up, and when you have how we can get him to it almost feels like that to go to the van, and shave his beard and so movie, Big Fish, where soundcheck, and play we worked out a deal. the show, so often it's at your funeral you’ll If BC shaved a bikini pretty cruisy because probably have like 900 top into his chest hair, you just float around weird foreign people because there's a lot of with a beer in your turn up that you’ve that, he looks a bit like hand being told where met throughout the Austin Powers when it to go, and then three years. comes to body hair, then months later, you're Brett would shave his back home. I mean it's beard. But what was probably funnier, was a pretty wild. You meet so many people that it couple of days later we'd forgotten that he almost feels like that movie, Big Fish, where had done that and we went to the beach and at your funeral you’ll probably have like 900 he took his shirt off and some of the people weird foreign people turn up that you’ve met throughout the years. It’s just the best thing, I there were giving him the weirdest looks as 48 COFFS COAST focus

he was walking through the crowds with this bikini made of chest hair, which he still actually rocks right now.. it's pretty funny.

We’re looking forward to your gig in Coffs Harbour. What do you think sets your live performances apart from others, and what can we expect from this show?

We’re so keen for this show! We are a live band, some bands get their kicks sitting in the studio and recording, and I think over the years we've toured enough to know that there's some bands you put on the stereo at home and sit down and listen to, and there’s

That was the first show my Mum had ever seen us play. So I’m super keen to get back to the Hoey and do it all again!

I think New Years in Coffs is a pretty special night.

to play there earlier in the year it was just nuts! It was phenomenal, it was sweaty, it was everything you want in a live show. That was the first show my Mum had ever seen us play.

So I'm super keen to get back to the Hoey and do it all again! I think New Years in Coffs is a pretty special night. I hope it's not a full moon because if it's a full moon, things will get really messed up. New Years in Coffs Harbour can get wild but I’m looking forward to it.

Looking ahead, what are some future plans for Dune Rats?

We're releasing a bunch of new tracks next year and we actually just released another new one recently. We'll do a bunch of shows over Summer, then back to America and Europe next year, and then back to Australia again for some more shows. Basically heavy touring next year and releasing a bunch of songs!

Where can people get more info or tickets for the Coffs show?

Check out the Hoey Moey or our website dunerats.tv

some bands that you need to get out and watch live and I think what makes us a great live band is actually our fans, because they just go nuts! I can't wait to come back to Coffs, because the last time we were there was Australia Day and it was the first time we'd ever played there. So for me to come from Coffs 13 years earlier and to never have been able to play there, it’s just so peculiar. I remember growing up there watching bands and being in bands and sneaking into the Hoey Moey and getting caught and kicked out and all that sort of stuff, so when we got COFFS COAST focus 49

CAMP Creative Nicole Ruigrok is the new Camp Coordinator for Bellingen’s Camp Creative, and seeing as this popular community event has been running for over 30 years we thought it would be great to get the rundown on what it’s all about and what we can expect from this year’s camp!

a proposal for my sewing course and was thrilled when it got accepted.

NICOLE RUIGROK

H

i Nicole. Can you tell us how you got involved with Camp Creative and what your role is?

I was introduced to Camp Creative in 2019 by a friend, and that year, I enrolled my children as students. Their experience was fantastic, and it was that same friend who encouraged me to apply as a tutor the following year. I submitted 50 COFFS COAST focus

In 2020 and 2023 I had the privilege of teaching My at Camp Creative. My responsibilities kids attend every year started my journey with now, my husband even include overseeing Camp Creative in April, takes a week off work, all aspects of the and I can honestly say so he doesn’t miss out website and ticketing, that this role has turned on our fabulous week. managing our social out to be the dream job As a tutor, I had the I never knew I wanted! media presence, and opportunity to meet My responsibilities handling our Michelle Stockton, and include overseeing all marketing efforts. we quickly became close aspects of the website friends, bonded by our and ticketing, managing shared love for sewing. our social media Michelle and her husband, Rob, have been presence, and handling our marketing efforts. dedicated members of the Camp Creative I also act as a liaison with all the tutors, family for many years. ensuring everything is in order both before Recently, I had the opportunity to be and after our website goes live. It's a busy considered for the Camp Coordinator role. I role, but I find it incredibly rewarding.

Our tutors are all hand-picked for their amazing skills, with many returning several years in a row because their courses are so popular.

For those that don’t know much about it, can you give us a bit of a run down on Camp Creative and what it’s all about?

Camp Creative has been running for more than 30 years now, it really is a community tradition. It is a week of creative courses that is held in Bellingen in January every year. A common misconception is that it is only for kids or only for adults, but this isn’t true! This year we are offering 80 courses, for a wide range of ages from 5 and up. Most of our courses are aimed at adults, and we have a small range available for kids. Tickets go on sale on June 1st each year and students can choose their favourite course to attend

for the week. Most courses go for full days (Monday to Friday 9am until 4pm), but we also have a range of half day courses (Monday to Friday 9am until 12pm OR 1pm until 4pm). Our courses range from visual arts to woodwork, wellness to crafting, metalwork to singing... and everything in between. Our tutors are all hand-picked for their amazing skills, with many returning several years in a row because their courses are so popular.

The majority of our courses are held at the Bellingen High School, with our second major venue being St Mary’s Primary School. There are also a handful of courses held at smaller venues around town. There are lunchtime concerts held at the High School from Tuesday to Friday, featuring performances by camp students and their tutors.

Continued over...

COFFS COAST focus 51

It is run mostly by volunteers and is a notfor-profit organisation. Why do you think the community continues to get behind Camp Creative and how can people get more info on becoming a volunteer or host?

Camp Creative has always been run by a committee of volunteers, mine being the only paid role. All our volunteers are local, we love our locals! We try to keep all our operations within the community and our graphic designer and printers are from Bellingen. We use local food vendors, and our team of guides are also all local. I think Bellingen prides itself on its community spirit and we love to be a part of that, I think that is why Camp Creative has been successfully running for so many years.

We are always looking for new volunteers, who can help with all sorts of interesting tasks like, setting up classrooms, helping the events team, supervising children at lunch time, helping out in the office and much more. We also have an amazing group of locals who billet our tutors, many of our home hosts have been onboard for years now. If you would like to be a home host or volunteer, you can find the forms on our 52 COFFS COAST focus

website.

What have been some of the longest running or most popular courses over the history of Camp Creative?

I think Bellingen prides itself on its community spirit and we love to be a part of that, I think that is why Camp Creative has been successfully running for so many years.

The Chinese Brush Painting course has been with us for 30 years.

Stephen Cassetari is a very popular tutor and loves to share his art with new students every year. African Drumming has been with us since 2000, as has Spaghetti Circus. Spaghetti Circus is our most popular kids’ course, they bring a team of tutors every year and spend the week teaching kids juggling, aerials, tumbling, balance and so much more. The Beauty of Watercolour with Terry Jarvis is our most popular course, it sold out in 15 minutes this year!

Camp Creative has a huge range of diverse courses on offer, how do you decide what to include?

When Camp Creative ends each year, we send out a survey to all our students. This plays a

large part in helping us choose which courses have been a success.

There are quite a few courses that carry over each year. If a new tutor gets great feedback in the survey, then we will ask them to return the following year. We get many new course proposals, so these will all be considered by the committee early in the year.

New courses are chosen based on their offering, and how they will fit in with our current range of courses. We are always on the lookout for new and interesting courses! If you want to submit a course proposal, please send me an email.

Could you tell us a bit about some of the courses you’re excited about for 2024?

For 2024 we have a new adult acting course presented by our very own local talent team, the Et Tu Theatre. You could learn beautiful textile art with the locally famous Caroline Sharkey or the kids can learn puppetry with the Sydney

CAMP Cre ive

Puppet Company. Learn all about upcycling your old jeans and t-shirts with the crew from Upcycle Newcastle and returning tutor Linda Parker can teach you all about playing the ukulele. With so many to choose from, which course will you do?

Spaghetti Circus is our most popular kids’ course, they bring a team of tutors every year and spend the week teaching kids juggling, aerials, tumbling, balance and so much more.

Not only are there courses to get involved in, but if you’re not enrolled in a course there’s still always such a great vibe around Bello during the week, with lots of performances and displays to check out.

What can we expect to see this year in the streets/venues of Bellingen?

wonderfully social week where you can not only learn a creative pursuit, but also meet new people and experience our quirky little town.

Do you have any plans for the future of Camp Creative?

As with many other organisations, Camp Creative suffered huge losses with having to cancel two years in a

row during COVID. We are still very much in recovery mode and would dearly love to sell out for 2024! For 2025 we would love to be able to offer a great range of new courses, so if you think you can offer us a course proposal we have never had before then please reach out.

We have a huge base of loyal students who love to come back to camp every year. Providing a great range of new courses is the main thing that ensures that keeps on happening.

Thanks Nicole.

Camp Creative also features several other exciting events. There is a Welcome Dinner for students and tutors, held on the evening before camp starts. Then we have a special concert on Tuesday evening, featuring famous pianist David Helfgott along with the Bellingen Youth Orchestra. The Bellingen Golf Club hosts our super fun Open Mic Night on Wednesday evening. Our only public event for the week is the Party in the Park, held out the front of Bellingen Library on Thursday evening. This event features various food stalls and showcases music and dance performances by many Camp Creative students. The week finishes with a student showcase concert at the Bellingen High School. So overall, Camp Creative is a COFFS COAST focus 53

focus_contributor.

WOMEN

Shannon

IN BUSINESS

with CATH FOWLER

CREEK

F R O M T H E D I G I TA L L A N E W AY

C

ENERGETICA MASSAGE THERAPY

an you tell us a little bit about your business?

I started Energetica Massage Therapy 3 1/2 years ago at the start of the pandemic. I was fortunate as a remedial therapist to be considered an “essential service” and have been booked out weeks in advance since I first opened my doors.

Energetica is a fusion of the many unique skills and clinical experience I’ve gained over the years working and training in China, Singapore, and day spas around Australia.

I wanted to create a space where people could come for excellent massages but also a sanctuary of rejuvenation. I offer many styles of massage, specialising in remedial and pregnancy massage, traditional Chinese Cupping, relaxation massage and hot stone massage. I also offer facials, body scrubs, foot baths, energetic healing and Reiki.

I’ve also launched a second business Sacred Space, facilitating workshops for spiritual growth and connection, encompassing breath work, meditation, movement and embodiment, and am about to complete my studies in Naturopathy.

What’s your favourite part of the work you do? Making people feel good, and seeing people leave better than when they came

54 COFFS COAST focus

in. I love seeing people share how good they feel after they leave. It makes me so happy to be able to provide that service and space for them. When someone leaves emotionally and physically recharged, feeling happier, lighter, less stressed and pain free I feel I have done my job.

Who is your greatest influence in business? Steve Zaal at The Chiro Coffs.

We’ve worked together in the clinic Steve built for over 3 1/2 years now and I have watched Steve build and grow his business from nothing. Coming from interstate like I did, he started completely fresh and has built up to a bustling, successful clinic. This has now expanded to a second location in Nambucca, as well as renovations to our Coffs clinic to include a third room and beauty therapist.

His passion, drive and determination to do things himself inspire me and it is truly a joy working alongside such a motivated and talented friend and business person.

Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast? I’ve actually moved around a lot. I’m originally from Horsham, Victoria. I moved to Melbourne to study, then moved to Adelaide for 8 years and ended up in Coffs totally randomly 5 years ago, and I’ve been here ever since and love it! Coffs has so much to offer right on our doorstep, so much beautiful

nature, I love camping and the outdoors and having both the mountains and beach within 20 minutes of each other is divine!

What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? It starts with belief in yourself that you can do it. Don’t be afraid to dream big. Don’t be afraid of failing, believe you can, and the way will come.

LEARN. Take courses in areas that will help you. I did this with tax, Instagram and Canva.

I have learned so much along the way that I figure it out as I go. I was never confident with technology, but I learned, and now I run a fully automated business, marketed entirely through social media. You don’t need to have all the answers, if I can do it, you definitely can too!

Talk to people who have experience in the areas that will help you grow. Finally, networking is essential. Build good genuine relationships with people and be open to the opportunities that can bring. Community is everything!

Where can people find out more about your business? Find me on Instagram or Facebook as @energeticamt, or through Fresha online booking. Or visit me in the clinic at 6 Taloumbi Rd, Coffs Harbour.

UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS UNDER THE TREE Gift Guide inspiration!

Discover gift’s everyone will love to unwrap on Christmas morning.

COFFS COAST focus 55

FOR HER TOP SHELF L-R 1. SEASONS BOUTIQUE - Kompanero Aleks Clutch $219.95 2. TOLEMAN AND CO - Citrine and Diamond gold Necklace 3. TERRYWHITE CHEMMART - Christian Dior Jadore Jewl Box $315 4. FRUIT FRUITS WHOLE FOODS - Salt Lamp Tear Drop $62.95 5. BLUSH COSMETICS - Sothys Radiance Kit $59.95 6. BLUSH COSMETICS - Sothys Hydra 4 pack $229 (save $40)

RACK L-R 7. COOPERS SURF - Tigerlilly Kaliopi Carmen One Piece Lagoon Splice $159 8. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Rowie the Label Gwen Silk/Linen Mini $239 9. LILY AND SAPPHIRE - Stable the Label, Clover Resort Shirt Navy $119.95 10. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Nude Lucy Alba Short Salt $90 11. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Rowie the Label Mason LS Shirt Navy Pinstripe $199 12. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Rowie the Label Carlotta Linen Pants Birch $229 13. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Humidity Nusa Dress Frappe $260 14. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Humidity Vacay Elysian Dress Navy $140 15. E-DEGREES – Wrangler Women’s Turn Back Time Romper $179.95 16. COOPERS SURF - Rhythm El Sol Towel $79.99

GROUND L – R 17. COOPERS SURF - Business & Pleasure, The Holiday Beach Umbrella - Le Basque Navy $199.99 18. E-DEGREES – Kinto Unitea Unmug 350ml $35 19. E-DEGREES – Frank Green Ceramic Reusable Bottle Mint Gelato $59.95 20. E-DEGREES – Waxhouse Candle Co No 5 Coffee Bean $35 21. E-DEGREES - Yoga While You Wait book $25

ON STOOL L-R

22. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Claudia Necklace $189 23. TERRYWHITE CHEMMART - YSL Black Opium Gift Set $265 24. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Marcello Earrings $249

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SHE DESERVES THE EXCEPTIONAL Shower the Special Woman in Your Life with Gifts that Reflect Her Distinctive Style.

BLUSH COSMETICS Sothys Hydra 4 pack $229

TERRYWHITE CHEMMART Christian Dior Jadore Gift Box $315

TOLEMAN AND CO Citrine and Diamond Gold Necklace

COFFS COAST COAST focus focus 57 57 COFFS

FOR HIM TOP SHELF L-R 1. COOPERS SURF - Akubra Traveller Regency Fawn $300 2. E-DEGREES – Kinto Travel Tumbler $70 3. E-DEGREES – GreenDay Record $62.95 4. TERRYWHITE CHEMMART – YSL 3-piece Gift Set $215

RACK L-R 5. TAROCASH – Marciano Textured Blazer Light Blue $249.99 6. TAROCASH – Benito Slim Leaf Shirt $99.99 7. TAROCASH – Jae Slim Linen Suit Jacket $229.99 8. TAROCASH – Billy Pure Linen Shirt $99.99 9. LILY AND SAPPHIRE – Chickpea Bath Sheet Storm $119.95

STOOL L-R 10. SNEAKER LOUNGE – New Balance 550 $220 11. COOPERS SURF - Rip Curl Mirage Activate Compression Liner Ultimate 19” Boardshorts $199.99

GROUND L-R

12. E-DEGREES - Rolling Stone Record $79.95 13. QBD BOOKS - Planet Finska $65 14. COOPERS SURF - Business & Pleasure, The Premium Cooler Bag - Lauren’s Navy Stripe $89.99 15. CTC TOBACCONIST – Panther’s Cork Coaster set $16.95

TOLEMAN AND CO Maserati Gold and Blue Watch 58 COFFS COFFS COAST COAST focus focus 58

BECAUSE HE DESERVES THE FINEST Spoil the Man in Your Life with Thoughtful Gifts that Match His Personal Style

TERRYWHITE CHEMMART Christian Dior Sauvage Gift Box $216

WALLACE BISHOP Royal Selangor Star Wars Figurine $899.95

1. URBAN LIFE - Birkenstock Arizona Habana $222 2. COOPERS SURF - Oakey Holbrook™ XL $288 3. CTC TOBACCONIST – Panther’s Cork Coaster set $16.95 4. CTC TOBACCONIST – Panther’s Wallet with keychain $22.95

THE BARBERSHOP CO 1. Agiva Styling Dust - $25 2. & 4. Agiva After Shave Cologne - $15 each 2. Mane Culture Beard Oil $15 COFFS COFFS COAST COAST focus focus 59 59

FOR THE YOUNG ONES

LILY AND SAPPHIRE 1. Dinky Dinkum Betsy Blue $30 2. Wild Wonder Snack Set $18.95 + Lunch Box $18.95 3. Mini Baby Book $44.95 4. Baby Elliot Elephant $42.95 5. Beach Towel Camomile $59.95 6. Workers Stool $289.95 7. Shallow Basket $49.95

QBD BOOKS Glow in the dark unicorn’s and dinosaur’s $6.99 each Solar system and space $9.99 each 60 COFFS COAST focus 60 COFFS COAST focus

LILY AND SAPPHIRE 1. Bebe by Minihaha Atticus Tee Campervan $36.95 2. Bebe by Minihaha Atticus Shorts $46.95 3. Retro Rainbow Romper $49.95

4. Treetop Stripe K/Romper $49.95 5. Rib Butterfly Tee $36.95 6. Retro Rainbow Shorts $36.95 7. Retro Check Frill Dress $59.95 8. Indi Embroidered Bodysuit $49.95

E-DEGREES Wise Cat Tarot $40

MAKE THEIR DREAMS COME TRUE THIS CHRISTMAS! Fun, cute and practical gifts to keep the kids entertained this Christmas.

E-DEGREES Frank Green Ceramic Water Bottle 1L $59.95

COOPERS SURF 1. Seafolly Girls Amazon Bikini & Sarong $79.99 2. Rip Curl Boys Dawn, Patrol 2mm Wetsuit $189.99 3. Stealth MINI 30” Bodyboard $89.99 4. SunnyLife Pool Ring – Glitter $39.39

COTTON ON 1. Cabana Short Sleeve Shirt $39.99 + Shorts $39.99 2. Flutter Sleeve Dress $34.99 3. Flutter Embroidered Dress $49.99

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Silvio’s Italiano

CHRISTMAS CATCH UPS Get into the festive vibe! Enjoy the flavours of the season, raise a glass to good times, and make awesome memories in the midst of all the holiday buzz. Kick back in style at one of our alfresco restaurants.

Whether you’re hanging out with family, buddies, or work pals, grab a cocktail, dig into some delicious food, and have a blast at your Christmas catch-ups.

It’s the season for good vibes – so come on over, relax, and let’s make this holiday one to remember!

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Brooklyn’s Burger Bar Espresso

COMMUNITY & FILM AT THE JETTY THEATRE THU 7 DEC 2PM & 6PM

SHAYDA

“an exciting new voice in Australian cinema has arrived” - THE GUARDIAN

Hi, I'm Mark. I specialise in crafting unique, eventful and truly special ceremonies, that bring people together to share deeply personal and authentic experiences.

I would be honoured to be a part of your special day and help you to create a ceremony that you will treasure for a lifetime. I am a skilled writer and speaker with a knack for delivering ceremonies that are heartfelt, inspiring and memorable.

My goal for your ceremony is to ensure that you won’t have to worry or think about a single thing. You can just relax and cherish the experiences with those you love.

A race against time through the air and snow

SAT 21 DEC 2PM & 6PM

Services

Locations

Weddings

Coffs Harbour

Coffee Table Weddings

Grafton & Yamba

Naming Ceremonies

Bellingen & Dorrigo

Funeral Services

Macksville & Nambucca

Vow Renewals

Brisbane & Gold Coast

Master of Ceremonies (MC)

Moreton & Redlands

Let's chat more!

Website: markthecelebrant.com.au

@markthecelebrantau

Email: mf@markthecelebrant.com.au Mobile: 0412 185 389 64 COFFS COAST focus

@markthecelebrantau

COFFS COAST focus 65

FirstStep DANCE ACADEMY MID NORTH COAST

T

ell us about your business: FirstStep Dance Academy Mid North Coast, is a family friendly dance school in the heart of the beautiful North Coast Region, Coffs Harbour.

Established in mid-July 2019, we continue to cater to all students from preschool age to high school age. This allows everyone to participate and learn recreational dance in a non-competitive, fun and inclusive environment.

What do you offer? We offer and teach a variety of common dance styles including jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, lyrical and hip hop, not to mention our fabulous preschool program and classes.

All our classes allow creation of story-telling and self-expression.

We are passionate about fostering the individual growth of building our student’s selfesteem, confidence and ability to work within a team.

What makes FirstStep Dance different? Our philosophy is to provide a nurturing, family friendly

and pressure free, yet professional dance school for our students and their families. We enthusiastically encourage, support and inspire the passion and joy of dance at all levels, ages and abilities.

Our mission has always been to create happiness within a humble environment. The connections and relationships built between the students, families and staff is something so special.

What is the best way to contact you? As we close the end of another successful year, we are also very busy preparing for another year ahead of us. If you have a child who is interested in joining us in 2024, please reach out to us.

We look forward to welcoming lots of new faces and families in 2024 as we continue to provide one of the best dance schools here in the Coffs community.

Miss Gemma on 0402 783 385 firststepdance@outlook.com www.firststepdancemnc.com firststepdanceacademy_mnc FirstStep Dance Academy Mid North Coast

Lash Extensions Timeless Classics, Hybrid Lashes, Light Volume, Dreamy Volume, Luxe Volume

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FOR COSMETIC TATTOO SERVICES P L E A S E C O N TA C T U S F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N

P: 02 5616 8428 Shop 102/92-98 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 info@glamlo.com.au www.glamlo.com.au

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Feathertouch Brows

VISIT OUR FACEBOOK

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

focus_contributor.

with SARAH DING

I

t can be confusing to think that your childhood measles vaccination is still going strong, yet other illnesses need regular boosters to work best. So, why do some vaccines last longer than others?

To recap, vaccines work by training the body to recognise an attack and mount an immune response through antibodies and other defence mechanisms. This response needs to be strong enough to decrease the severity of infection or bypass it completely.

When trying to understand why some vaccines last longer than others, as with everything in science, there are several factors. Here are three to remember: 1.Viruses mutate at different speeds.

Flu, and now COVID-19, mutate quickly.

They can quickly develop new strains that are different from previous ones. This makes it challenging to develop long-lasting immunity against them because the immune system may not recognize the new strains as easily. Polio, for example, does not – making it far easier to contain and potentially eradicate. To address the challenge of new strains, scientists must continuously monitor the virus’s genetic changes and develop new vaccines or update existing ones to match the new strains. This is why flu vaccines are updated annually to match the most prevalent strains circulating in a particular

TERRYWHITE CHEMMART COFFS HARBOUR PARK BEACH PLAZA

year. The same approach is being taken with COVID-19 vaccines as new variants emerge.

2.Antibodies decay at different speeds.

that provides the best protection against the disease while minimizing any potential side effects.

So, what’s the takeaway? Well, just because The antibodies developed from measles one vaccine provides lifetime protection, and mumps vaccinations take more than we can’t assume all do. Boosters are 200 years to diminish by half. On the other recommended for some vaccines because hand, those for COVID-19 seem to last the initial immune response may diminish just several months. The longevity of the over time, and the antibody response is virus may evolve or essential because it helps Boosters are mutate, making the the immune system recommended for original vaccine less mount a more prolonged effective. Boosters some vaccines because and effective response help to stimulate against the pathogen if the initial immune the immune system the person is exposed to response may diminish to maintain or it again in the future. over time, and the virus increase protection 3.Vaccination may evolve or mutate, against the disease. technology has an making the original Ultimately, it’s effect. vaccine less effective. essential to follow There are multiple ways the recommended to develop a vaccine. vaccination schedule It’s generally believed that live (weakened) to ensure optimal protection against vaccines create a more long-lasting response preventable diseases. as they are the closest experience to real infection. However, this type of vaccine is not always the right one for a particular illness. Inactivated vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, are made from viruses that have been killed or inactivated, so they cannot cause the disease. Each type of vaccine has its advantages and disadvantages.

Ultimately, the goal is to develop a vaccine

At TerryWhite Chemmart Coffs Harbour, we are dedicated to providing vaccination services to our community. We currently offer a range of travel vaccines, flu vaccines, and COVID19 vaccines amongst many others. Want to book for vaccination? Head to www.terrywhitechemmart.com.au or call us at 02 6652 4188.

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GlamLo L A S H

GlamLo Lash & Brow is a new local beauty salon in Coffs Harbour City Central founded by Vicky Lo. GlamLo Lash & Brow specialises in lash, brow and cosmetic tattooing services.

Vicky started her business after noticing a gap in the market for women who wanted to look sleek and stylish without spending too much time on everyday makeup.

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&

B R O W

H

ey Vicky, Tell us about your business.

GlamLo Lash & Brow is a new local beauty salon in Coffs Harbour City Central. GlamLo Lash & Brow specialises in lash, brow and cosmetic tattooing services, and have refined the art of eyelashes and brows. The salon was started after noticing a gap in the market for ladies who wanted to look sleek and stylish without spending too much time on everyday makeup.

Who makes up your team and what are their roles?

Our lash and brow artists design and customise brows and lash extensions by analysing the face and eye shape that will enhance your facial features. We provide high quality lash extensions in a pleasant environment. A wide variety of lash styles can be found in our salon, and art will be performed on your lashes.

What services and products do you provide?

GlamLo Lash & Brow provides lash extensions, lash lift, brow shaping, henna, hybrid dye and lamination, as well as cosmetic tattooing for eyebrows, eyeliner and lips. We use our own lash extension products, which are of premium quality and come in a variety of styles to suit different preferences and occasions, ranging from natural lashes to full fluffy lashes. We recommend using our oil-free foam lash cleanser, which helps to keep the lash extensions clean and long lasting.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

To grow as a lash, brow, and cosmetic tattoo artist, I learn to take feedback, accept criticism, strive to improve, and grow. I ensure I set myself apart from competitors by offering my clients the best value for money with exceptional service.

Technology has come a long way in your industry. What have been some of the advances and how is it assisting your customers?

A successful artist will be able to showcase their creativity, skill, and style in their work, while also adapting to the client’s wishes and facial features.

For lash extension, we use high quality products that allow clients to wet their lashes 1 to 2 hours after the application instead of waiting for 24 hours. This provides more convenience to clients who want to go to the gym, beach or have a shower after their appointment.

On the other hand, we use hybrid dye for lashes and brows. Hybrid dye lasts for up to 6 weeks on hair, which is a longer time compared to normal tint that only lasts up to 4 weeks on hair.

What motivates you in your role and business?

Lash extensions, brow and semi-permanent treatments have become my passion and I want to continue to create different brow and lash styles tailored to clients that demonstrate my specialty. I believe that subtle changes in appearance can give our beauty a big lift.

Describe for us your definition of

'success' relevant to your industry/role.

To me, customer satisfaction is the primary goal of any service-oriented business, and lash and brow and cosmetic tattoo artists are no exception. A successful artist will be able to listen to the client's needs and preferences, provide expert advice and guidance, and deliver a result that meets or exceeds the client's expectations.

Customer satisfaction also leads to repeat business, referrals, and positive reviews, which are essential for building a reputation and a loyal customer base.

Artistic expression is another aspect of success for myself. A successful artist will be able to showcase their creativity, skill, and style in their work, while also adapting to the client's wishes and facial features.

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?

As a lash and brow, and cosmetic tattoo artist, I love helping my clients achieve their desired look and feel confident everyday. One of my greatest professional accomplishments

to date is seeing the transformation of my clients' appearance and self-esteem after they receive my services. Whether it's a lash lift, a brow lamination, or a tint, I always strive to deliver the best results possible and make my clients happy. I'm proud of the positive feedback and referrals I get from my satisfied customers, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to do what I love.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you?

Other businesses or readers can connect with us through email, phone or you can book your appointment directly on our website. info@glamlo.com.au 02 5616 8428 glamlo.com.au COFFS COAST focus 69

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focus_contributor.

unlocking He h BENEFITS

T

The simple wonders of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).

The team at Revive IV Wellness are thrilled to introduce Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to our wellness centre.

Put simply, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, or (HBOT), is a simple yet powerful treatment with several benefits for various health conditions.

It’s a non-invasive treatment involving breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber. The treatments are customised to your needs and delivered by our trained medical staff.

So how could HBOT enhance your well-being.

Increased Oxygen Levels: The fundamental principle of HBOT lies in elevating oxygen levels in the body. By inhaling pure oxygen under increased pressure, the lungs can absorb more oxygen, in turn enhancing its distribution throughout the bloodstream. This increased oxygen supply promotes healing and regeneration at the cellular level.

Accelerated Wound Healing: One of the standout benefits of HBOT is its ability to speed up the healing process. Higher oxygen levels in the blood stimulate the production of collagen and other essential factors, encouraging tissue

repair. This makes HBOT particularly effective in treating wounds, injuries, and even postsurgical recovery, reducing downtime and improving overall outcomes.

Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation is a common factor in many health conditions, from chronic diseases to acute injuries. HBOT has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce swelling and promote a more balanced immune response. This makes it a valuable added therapy for conditions where inflammation plays a detrimental role.

Enhanced Brain Function: The brain is a highly oxygen-dependent organ, and HBOT has shown promising results in supporting neurological health. Increased oxygen delivery to the brain can improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration. This makes HBOT a potential therapeutic option for conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, stroke recovery, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Management of Chronic Conditions: HBOT has proven beneficial for a range of chronic conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. By addressing underlying inflammation and promoting cellular repair, HBOT can contribute to symptom management and an improved quality of life for individuals living with these conditions.

Aernive

Health with VERONICA HIBBARD

REVIVE IV WELLNESS: I V V I TA M I N T H E R A P Y

Fighting Infections: Oxygen is a natural antimicrobial agent, and HBOT assists in the combating of infections. The increased oxygen levels create an environment that is less conducive to the growth of bacteria and promotes the body’s ability to fight off infections. This is particularly relevant in the treatment of stubborn, non-healing wounds and certain types of infections.

Non-Invasive Nature: HBOT is a non-invasive procedure. Patients simply breathe in the enriched oxygen while comfortably laying in a pressurised chamber. This simplicity makes the therapy accessible and comfortable to receive as the environment is quiet, calming and relaxing to experience.

The potential benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy are both vast and accessible. By increasing oxygen levels in the body, HBOT offers a holistic approach to healing and wellness. From accelerated wound healing to improved brain function, its simple yet powerful process makes it a valuable tool in the pursuit of better health.

If you’d like to know more about this exciting new service feel free to call our team on 0459 309 531 or book in online at reviveivwellness.com.au COFFS COAST focus 71

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focus_contributor.

COUNSELLING C O N V E R S AT I O N S

with JULIE THOMAS

F R O M BE YO N D T H E S U R FAC E COUNSELLING

T

THE POWER OF

forgiveness

Forgiveness means different things to different people. The Oxford Dictionary defines forgiveness as ‘the action or process of forgiving or being forgiven’.

he key word here is action, as connection with the person, as reconciliation is it is an intentional conscious a step in the process of forgiveness. decision that you must let go Forgiveness does not necessarily involve of the anger and resentment others. We often make personal choices that, towards a person who has hurt upon reflection we find were not-so-good or offended you. Working on decisions, and we give ourselves a hard time forgiveness can lessen the pain and hurt the over it. We often use negative self-talk and act had on you and help you achieve a sense ruminations of what we should have done of peace. instead. So, self-forgiveness is as important as Forgiveness does not necessarily need you forgiving others. to reconcile with the Scientific research has offender of the act. shown that forgiveness is Some actions are associated with a range We often harmful both physically of psychological, social, make and mentally if we and physical benefits, personal choices remain in contact or including improved that, upon reflection have a connection mental health, reduced we find were not-sowith the person. stress, and emotional Reconciliation does and physical well-being. good decisions, and not need to occur Holding on to feelings of we give ourselves a in conjunction with anger, hurt, resentment hard time over it. forgiveness, it is possible or other negative to forgive someone emotions, even those without minimising directed at yourself, can or denying the act. This may take time, have a detrimental effect. especially if the act caused significant harm Forgiving others has a two-fold effect both for deliberately or accidentally, deep forgiveness the person you are forgiving and for yourself, can be challenging, and each of us forgives thus increasing your happiness and being less in different ways. For some of us, we use likely to experience negative health effects of empathy, others may use a moving-on stress and it can bring a sense of closure and approach, and others may need to fix the peace.

There is no “right way” to forgive. You may choose to offer forgiveness privately, maybe over the phone or by letter or forgive without further contact with the person.

I have spoken many times about the benefits of journalling as it is a therapeutic activity that provides an expression of one’s thoughts and feelings in writing, drawing, and art. It is a powerful tool for exploring feelings of forgiveness.

Some people write a letter and never send it. You can have a ‘letting it go’ ceremony where you burn the letter and throw the ashes into the wind, or you may imagine yourself blowing up a large balloon and placing all the unkind hurtful memories in the balloon, and your forgiving thoughts, and you walk outside and throw your imaginary balloon up into the sky releasing all of your resentment and pain.

The physical action of ceremonial rituals is a way to positively move forward.

Try it and find the closure of forgiveness you may need.

Until next time, be kind and gentle with yourself.

Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach) Member - Australian Counselling Association Member of WPATH, AUSPATH COFFS COAST focus 73

EMBRACING LUXURY & COMPASSION

Back row from left - right: Leith Foster – Concierge, Tammie Breneger – Director of Care, Bernie Petersen – Concierge, Meagan Wignell – Community Facilitator, Aurielle Reyes – Deputy Director of Care Front row from left - right: Kerrie Field – Customer Relations Consultant, Caroline Ford – Deputy Director of Care, Henry Elvy - Senior Physiotherapist & Allied Health Team Leader, Ellie Cooper – Quality Coordinator

P

REMIUM RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE AND SUPPORT

In the heart of Coffs Harbour, a beacon of refined care and unwavering compassion stands tall - The Shoreline Luxury Retirement Living. This haven transcends traditional notions of aged care, seamlessly blending comfortable luxury with a commitment to holistic health and wellbeing.

One of The Shoreline’s standout features is its round-the-clock care, setting a new standard for senior living. The facility is staffed 24 hours a day, ensuring that residents receive personalised attention whenever they need it. This commitment to constant care not only provides a sense of security for residents but also allows for immediate response to any unforeseen circumstances.

Central to The Shoreline’s ethos is our incredible and compassionate team. Comprising of

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experienced professionals who embody health initiatives, the facility’s holistic approach empathy and understanding, the staff at ensures that residents lead fulfilling lives.

The Shoreline go beyond mere caregiving.

The lush surroundings of Coffs Harbour only They form meaningful connections with enhance this experience, providing a serene residents, fostering a backdrop for residents to sense of community enjoy their golden years. and family. This This The Shoreline Luxury compassionate approach compassionate Aged Care Facility is the cornerstone of the is not just a place; approach is the facility’s success, creating it’s a commitment cornerstone of the an environment where to redefining the facility’s success, residents feel valued, standards of aged creating an environment understood, and truly at care. In its embrace, where residents feel home. residents find solace in PEACE OF MIND

valued, understood, and truly at home.

At The Shoreline, the focus on health and wellbeing is paramount.

The facility employs state-of-the-art wellness programs, tailored to meet the unique needs of each resident. From fitness regimens to mental

comfortable luxurious accommodation, compassionate connections, and a renewed focus on their health and wellbeing.

The Shoreline is where aging becomes an art and life continues to be lived with grace and dignity.

INTERESTED IN KNOWING MORE? For general enquiries, please contact our Concierge Desk on (02) 5656 0200.

To book a tour of our Aged Care Residence, please contact Kerrie Field on 0448 873 701 *Access to The Shoreline Residential Aged Care is dependent on the waitlist, availability of beds and each individual’s personal care needs/ requirements.

(02) 5656 0200 shorelineconcierge@theshoreline.com.au www.theshoreline.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 75

Michelle Graham has recently graduated as a Registered Nurse after completing her degree whilst working as an Enrolled Nurse at The Shoreline in Coffs Harbour. She will be the first RN to experience Shoreline’s New Graduate Program, and is going to be an asset to the local nursing community.

Mie

GRAHAM

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H

i Michelle.

Congratulations on receiving your AHPRA registration!

Can you tell us a bit about how you came to the decision to do your Nursing Degree?

in Guyra and within a few months was asked to become the Team Leader and assisted the RN in the daily running of this facility. The position was only to last for one month during the absence of the Facility Manager, but turned out to be an almost two year journey. During this time I decided that I would like to be involved in a more clinical aspect of care of the residents so I first completed one year of pathway entry into the University of New England. After this I was able to enrol in my Bachelor of Nursing and commence the biggest, most challenging 3 years of my life.

I came to Australia in 2013 with my family from Scotland. I was looking to find a balanced lifestyle for my daughter Emily and myself. I was brought up in South Africa in Cape Town from the age of 4 until 22, then I decided to move back to Scotland to see if it was a preferred place to live. Well, I love What do you enjoy most about Scotland with all my heart but I never nursing, particularly in aged care? quite adjusted to the cold weather there The satisfaction of being able to make a and knew I would prefer the outdoor difference in a resident’s day. No matter lifestyle, so Australia it was. When I how small or big the task may be, having moved here my the ability to be able background had to make the day of been about 15 years a resident brighter of hospitality in No matter how and better and hotel and restaurant providing the best small or big the management. My possible care brings task may be, having daughter was only me great joy. the ability to be able to two years old and I You’ve been make the day of a really did not want working at The resident brighter and to continue my Shoreline as an EN better and providing journey in hospitality whilst finishing the best possible care so decided to try a your degree, what brings me great joy. different pathway. I has the experience was living in Guyra of working in NSW, which is the field whilst famous for its large studying been glasshouse tomato farms, so thought like? why not try this. After just over 4 It has been wonderful to have the years, I decided that I would like to try ability to use clinical skills with support something else and more challenging. and guidance, and watch and learn My best friend Nicole and I saw a local from the fantastic and caring staff and advertisement for the course at TAFE management at the Shoreline.

Armidale for Certificate III in Aged Care.

We had previously discussed working in aged care so decided to enrol in 2018 and completed the course. I met my current partner Matt at the farm and he gave me the confidence and support to be able to embark on my new career (and again for university). I was employed into a small 32 bed Aged Care Facility

Juggling study and work can be very difficult, what have been some of your biggest challenges and supports during this journey?

I would have to say COVID introduced the biggest challenge to me, as I was not able to travel home to Scotland to see my

sister Kerrie who is my best friend, and my Mum. We lost my Dad “Wee Jimmy” in 2017 in very sudden circumstances and only wish he could have been here to see me graduate. Indeed it has been tricky at times as I do have a young daughter, having just turned 13, but I have a wonderful array of supportive family and friends who got me through it all.

Clinical placements and intensive classes were certainly a juggling act having to be away from my daughter and Matt for one week or four weeks, but the experience that was gained in those periods was so valuable.

What’s next for you now that you’ve finished your degree? Can you tell us about the Shoreline's Graduate RN Program?

I am honoured and excited to be the first RN to experience Shorelines New Graduate programme. Starting anything is scary but I feel that I am prepared to embark on this wonderful new journey.

Having the knowledge that I will be well supported and to be able to further develop my skills is a comforting thought.

What are you hoping becoming a Registered Nurse will mean for your career in the future?

I would like to make a difference and be the nurse who can be seen to be involved in the delivery of the best care and see each person as an individual, whilst providing empathy and dignity. I pride myself on my ability to be patient and calm and hopefully this will contribute to Shoreline.

What advice would you give to anyone else thinking of going into aged care/nursing and looking at doing their training in a similar way?

I feel that my previous experience in the aged care sector gave me an advantage on my journey. Do not hold back, believe in yourself because you can. Remember you will have an abundance of support and guidance under the Shoreline.

Thanks Michelle.

COFFS COAST focus 77

Exploring your aged care options:

HOME CARE VS. AGED CARE HOMES

As you age, you may start to think about your future care options. There are two main choices: home care and aged care facilities.

B

oth have their own advantages and disadvantages, but home care, supported by the Federal Government’s Home Care Package Program emerges as the most preferable option for a majority of seniors.

Residential aged care

and assistance to people in their own homes.

This can include a wide range of services, such as:

Residential aged care facilities provide a structured and supportive environment for seniors who require round-the-clock care and supervision. Residential aged care facilities offer 24/7 support, specialised care for seniors with complex health conditions, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or physical disabilities.

Home care: The preferred choice for many seniors Home care is a service that provides support

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•

Personal care (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)

•

Domestic care (e.g., cleaning, cooking, laundry)

•

Respite care for caregivers

•

Nursing care

•

Allied health care

•

Funding home care

Subsidised home care is available under the Australian Government’s Home Care Package Program. Home Care Packages can be made available to people over the age of 65 (or 50 for people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent) who have age-related care needs.

The Trilogy Care difference Trilogy Care supports those with an approved Home Care Package to self-managed their Home Care Package budget.

Self-management allows you to take full control over your Home Care Package, including the freedom to design your care plan, select and manage your own care providers and maintain control over how your Home Care Package budget is spent.

If you have been assessed for or have an approved Home Care Package, find out how Trilogy Care can support you. Visit trilogycare. com.au or call us on 1300 459 190.

To get started with a Home Care Package, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422.

with JASON BURLEY FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

F I VE

ADJUSTMENTS IF YOUR

SPOUSE MOVES IN TO CARE

Life is filled with changes. But with preparation and good advice, you may be able to manage the changes more effectively to minimise the stress.

W

atching your spouse’s health decline can be difficult and stressful, and if this decline results in a move to aged care, you will both be faced with a lot of changes. These changes will include getting used to a new routine and sleeping arrangements, as well as financial, legal and emotional adjustments.

In this article, I highlight five aspects that couples may need to think about and tips to help you to adjust.

1. Your Centrelink age pension If your spouse (or both of you) move into care, you might qualify for a “payrise” through a higher age pension. This increase can help to cover higher expenses and care costs.

When a move into care is involved, illnessseparated couple rules apply. Your pension continues to be assessed on combined financial means but is paid at the higher single rates of pension. A couple’s age pension could increase by up to $14,000 per year (combined).

2. Your emotions You might experience feelings of guilt and/or grief. These are normal reactions and it may

take some time to deal with your emotions.

Ensure you have lots of support from good friends and family or seek professional help if needed.

3. Your lifestyle changes You will both experience changes in your daily routines.

In care, your spouse may need to adjust to a new routine including a different bed, changes in meal times and different cooking styles.

The care staff will be able to help with tips for settling in. Your daily routine might see care activities being replaced with visiting your spouse and regaining some of your own social life.

If your spouse was receiving a home care package before moving into residential care, that package (and any support services such as home cleaning that it was paying for) will stop. You might consider whether you now qualify for your own home care package or other home support to help maintain your independence.

4. Your home If your home does feel too big or lonely, or it is hard to visit your spouse, you might decide to move. This might be a move to a smaller home,

or a differently located home, or perhaps you might want to move to a retirement village.

Changing homes will create financial implications for your age pension and care fees.

It might also release equity. I can provide advice to do the numbers and make recommendations on appropriate strategies.

5. Sorting your legals If your spouse was nominated as your enduring power of attorney/guardian or executor of your will it might be time to speak to your lawyer about updating the documents and nominating someone else.

As an Accredited Aged Care Professional TM, I can provide advice to help you navigate the rules and consider strategies that may best meet your needs.

Call me on 0431 414 799 or email jason@ burleyagedcareadvice.com.au to find out how I might help.

This advice is general in nature and everyone’s circumstances are different. So it’s important to speak to someone like myself who is a licensed financial adviser (I am an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232).

P 0431 414 799 E jason@burleyagedcareadvice.com.au W www.burleyagedcareadvice.com.au COFFS COAST focus 79

BARRY HOCKEY ACCOUNTANTS

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

W

hat another reflect on the year that has gone year it and focus on your plans for the has been!

New Year. I find that many people Businesses think about their financial situation getting over the holiday period and how back to normal after the pandemic they can do things differently or and continued improve their challenges with situation in the Thanks to rising interest year ahead. technology, we rates and We would like have found new ways cost of living to wish all our to work, and many pressures. The clients, family businesses have year ahead will and friends a changed their business happy and safe be challenging, model to adapt and but thanks to Christmas and will be stronger going technology, prosperous New forward. we have found Year. Please take new ways to care over the work, and holiday season many businesses have changed and enjoy the festivities. their business model to adapt and Please note that our office will will be stronger going forward. be closed from 12 pm Thursday The festive season is traditionally 21 December 2023 and reopen a time to spend with family and Monday 8 January 2024. loved ones. It is also a time to

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love to F O C U S F E AT U R E

COFFS COAST focus 81

focus_contributor.

E D U C AT I O N

UPDATE with NICK JOHNSTONE

You SEXUALISATION



A CALL TO ACTION FOR OUR COMMUNITY

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

I

I address you today not merely as the Principal of Bishop Druitt College but as a concerned member of our community, urging us to confront a matter of utmost importance. This issue strikes at the very heart of our shared responsibility to nurture the wellbeing of Australia’s youth.

t demands our collective attention, despite the discomfort it may bring, for it concerns the sexualisation of young minds through mainstream and social media, and the profound impact it has on teen culture and peer pressure.

lines between reality and fiction, making it challenging for our youth to form healthy relationships. This is especially true in the age of easy access to pornographic materials. According to Melinda Tankard Reist, in an article published on the Australian Childhood Foundation website, the average first age of exposure to pornography is 11 years, with 100% of 15-year-old males and 80% of 15-year-old females reporting that they have been exposed to violent, degrading online pornography.

As educators and parents, we must confront the undeniable challenges that arise from the sexualisation of our youth in the media. These challenges, though uncomfortable to address, are of paramount importance.

to conform to group norms and behaviours, which can now play out in unique ways because of the ‘always on’ nature of smartphones and internet-connected devices. Most commonly, young women may feel pressured to produce images for young men, and young men may feel pressured to distribute these among their friends.

This coercion can increase the risk that young people may fail to protect their privacy, with the concomitant potential for harm and regret in the longer term. The sharing of inappropriate body images via platforms like Snapchat or Instagram has become normalised. This new normal then creates teen advocates who unknowingly become vehicles and supporters of this peer pressure as it relates to taking and sharing inappropriate images and messages. According to a study completed by The Australian Institute of Family Studies entitled “The effects of pornography on children and young people,” 44% of children aged 9 to 16 years have seen sexualized images in the last month.

Peer Pressure: The desire to fit in and conform to societal expectations is an undeniable force in the lives of adolescents. As part of adolescence, young people can experience significant pressure

Emotional Wellbeing: Exposure to sexual content, often at a young age, can have profound implications for emotional and psychological development. It blurs the

What can you do?

Our children are growing up in an age characterised by unprecedented access to information and media, which, while offering many advantages, simultaneously exposes them to a constant deluge of images, messages, and influences that have the power to mold their perceptions and behaviours in ways that ought to give us pause. The sexualisation of our youth through mainstream and social media is a deeply disconcerting trend that we cannot ignore. Our young people find themselves bombarded with sexual imagery and ideals that foster unrealistic expectations, fuel insecurities, and drive them prematurely into the realm of adult themes for which they may not yet be emotionally prepared.

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The Australian Psychological Society has highlighted a range of concerns about the harmful impacts of pornography, particularly on children, young people, and women. Attention has been drawn to the content and contact harms of pornographic material, with specific reference to the role pornography plays in setting relationship and sexual norms among children and young people, in the sexualisation of women and girls, and in facilitating and normalising violence both at an individual and social level.

As a community, it is imperative that we confront these issues head-on. Scan the QR code to read the full article.

A sister school within the Anglican school community. www.cvas.nsw.edu.au

Cathedral Campus (PreKinder to Year 2) (02) 6642 2011 jsreception@cvas.nsw.edu.au Clarenza Campus (Years 3 - 12) (02) 6642 8205 ssreception@cvas.nsw.edu.au

Meaningful, hands-on learning

Targeted & proactive wellbeing programs

‘We are a community. We are innovative. We are inclusive.

We prepare children for an exciting, dynamic life.'

Enrolling Now

Specialist teachers - Year 12 PreKinder

High Performance Program & Athlete Development

Enrolling Now

Years 11 & 12 2024 Year 5 2025 www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

(02) 6651 5644 enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au 111 North Boambee Road, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450

FOLLOW US

WHY COFFS HARBOUR IS

N AT H A N LANCASTER

For Southern Cross University Psychology Honours student Nathan Lancaster, leading a student association, helping recruit and enrol new students, and volunteering with Lifeline is all in a week’s work.

H

e’s one of the most familiar faces on the Hogbin Drive campus and one of the university’s biggest advocates, always finding new ways to make others feel welcome and involved.

He describes Southern Cross University Coffs Harbour Campus as the best in the country, for its strong community feel, beautiful location and quality education experience.

“To start off with I was really scared about going to uni, but when I heard about the Preparing for Success Program, I enrolled in that and it gave me the confidence to continue studying. I also made some amazing friends who encouraged me to pursue my Bachelor in Psychological Science.”

“They’ll stop you in the hallway and ask how it’s going with studies, any struggles, future plans, and you feel supported and connected – and that speaks to the campus as a whole.

Everyone’s very friendly and it’s a tight-knit community.”

“I’ve absolutely loved it and I’ve never looked back; it’s led to so many opportunities, becoming a student ambassador and working for the uni, and also just all the connections and friendships I’ve formed.”

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“Our psychology tutors and course coordinators all take a really deep interest in the students who are studying psychology.”

“One of my classmates studied his undergraduate degree at another university and then decided to do honours up here in Coffs Harbour, and he says something you don’t see at bigger universities, is that real interaction between teachers and students

and other professional staff, which is one of Southern Cross Uni’s biggest strengths.”

In a sector-leading move from the start of this year, Psychological Science at Southern Cross University adopted the Zero Textbook

Cost program and has become completely exam-free, in a transformative initiative led

by Senior Lecturer Dr Desirée Kozlowski. The use of open educational resources means Psychological Science students can save between $2,000-$4,000 over the course of their degree.

dollars and I’m getting a better education as well, as it’s constantly updated information.”

As a social person who thrives on connection, Nathan’s biggest battle early on in his degree was the COVID-19 restrictions and being isolated from his peers.

“As soon as were allowed back on campus, I took every opportunity just to engage with all “Textbooks can be so expensive, like hundreds the students and staff who were coming back. of dollars each. Before, I would toss up I would pick up a conversation with every whether I could get new student who walked away with not buying in, which is actually how a textbook, or get I ended up getting the They’ll stop you away with using an role of President of the in the hallway older version of the Student Association. and ask how it’s book which might be a “I help the committee going with studies, bit outdated – but now come to decisions on any struggles, future all students are given where we want to spend plans, and you feel the same material for student funds and put our free, so it’s saving me supported and efforts, like themed meals, Nathan says it’s a game-changer for students.

connected – and that speaks to the campus as a whole.

yoga and art and craft days for students, and also running end-of-year celebrations for students which have been a huge success.”

His role as President of the Student Association means Nathan has had the opportunity to travel to other university campuses to meet with students and staff, but he says Coffs Harbour is the stand-out for him.

“Coffs is beautiful, surrounded by bushland and ocean views from the top of the campus.

When I was undecided about studying it was the Coffs Harbour campus that was the decider for me – I could take advantage of staying local and staying at home instead of moving to a big city, which was such a big advantage.”

Nathan is currently studying his Bachelor of Psychological Science with Honours part-time and will embark on a research project in 2024.

He hopes to look into the impact of Artificial Intelligence in the elderly population for his thesis.

“I think any job I take going forward will have to be working in a big team of people because that’s definitely something I’ve enjoyed, and being around lots of different types of people,” he says.

When encouraged by Southern Cross University Careers and Employability Consultant Joe Donnelly to serve as a volunteer crisis support worker with Lifeline Mid North Coast, Nathan took the opportunity and said it’s been one of the most difficult yet rewarding things he has been part of.

“It’s definitely tricky knowing almost every call you get is a risky call where it could be a lifethreatening situation, but it’s a very important job and has been great character building for me. I’m developing skills in talking to people and being able to listen better, as well as becoming self-aware in being able to keep my emotions and biases in check – I’ve learnt a lot of great life skills from that.”

COFFS COAST focus 85

Make a life-changing move Enrol now for Semester 1, 2024 Make a life-changing move at TAFE NSW. Whether you want to live a creative life or a tech life, you can realise your goals with a TAFE NSW course. With flexible study options and industry experienced teachers, our nationally recognised courses will ensure you have the hands-on skills you need to launch a successful career.

tafensw.edu.au 86 COFFS COAST focus

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Milestones E A R LY L E A R N I N G C E N T R E S

Anne Cochrane, Area Manager of Coffs Coast Early Education and Childcare Centre, Milestones Early Learning North Boambee, is promoting ‘unheard of’ benefits now on offer for trainees, cooks, educators and early childhood teachers.

“Discounted childcare, free scholarships to become early childhood teachers, above award wages, fully funded training to complete your certificate or diploma and a free employee wellness program are just some of the benefits we’re able to offer our team because we are owned and operated by Affinity Education Group,” Anne said.

Megan Singleton has been a Centre Manager at Milestones Early Learning North Boambee since 2018 and says the passion she finds in the job always trumps any challenges.

“You cannot beat the smiles on a child’s face for the best way to start the day – we are 100% committed to providing a real village of early learning and fun,” she said.

“We also love the benefits our team get - I am studying my Early Childhood Teaching Degree,

all fully funded by Affinity’s free Bachelor Scholarship program, which is amazing,” she said.

“Affinity’s Lifelong Learning Curriculum has also been recognised as Australia’s most progressive and contemporary approach to educating children in their first five years – so we’re excited to have the training and resources to offer that to children.”

Local mum Gillian whose children have all attended said the efforts to find quality educators were appreciated.

“The educators at this centre are extremely supportive of families and committed to providing high quality care. Megan takes a hands on approach and works directly with families,” she said.

With more than 70 local families on the

waitlist, Megan and Anne are welcoming enquiries from qualified educators and teachers in the region.

“We promise to help you realise your potential – and together we’ll do the same for our children,” Anne said.

To view available career positions at Milestones Early Learning North Boambee visit https://careers.affinityeducation.com. au/en/listing to search Affinity’s latest job opportunities on the Coffs Coast.

Exciting Career Opportunities

Join Our Waitlist

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Meet Alexis, a rising star in the world of martial arts whose journey began at the age of 5 when a chance encounter with a YouTube video ignited a passion that has propelled her to gold medal success. Training at Diamond Martial Arts for the past seven years, Alexis’s story unfolds from that initial spark to the recent achievement of her black belt in Taekwondo.

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ith a recent string of victories, including national and world titles, Alexis not only excels in the competitive arena but also takes on the responsibility of being a role model for younger students, particularly girls, challenging stereotypes and proving that martial arts are for everyone.

Hey Alexis, tell us about how you got into martial arts?

What do you enjoy most about the sport?

I love that martial arts keeps me fit, strong and flexible. It teaches me the skills I need to protect myself both physically and mentally in any situation. I’ve learnt resilience and respect. I’ve also made some great friendships with my trainers and training partners at my home dojo and with the girls I compete against in tournaments.

Everyone is really I gained a real supportive and that’s really nice. sense of

responsibility when I I had just turned 5 You have recently got my black belt. It and discovered a received your black belt for Taekwondo. Tell us You Tube video of a inspired me to train girl in a dance class. how that felt after all harder and become a There was a martial the years of hard work? role model for the arts tournament I was really nervous younger students, happening next door going into grading, especially the girls. and she decided to to the point where I ditch dance class and wanted to back out. I join the tournament. was actually grading She beat all the boys. I showed Mum and for a provisional black belt. At the end I asked if I could do that and I have now of grading my Master brought out a trained at Diamond Martial Arts for the provisional black belt and explained last 7 years. how this belt refines and cements all the 88 COFFS COAST focus

practices and attitudes you need, to become a black belt. He then pulled a black belt out from behind his back and told everyone how I was already achieving all these things. I double graded and I was doing a little happy dance inside. It was the most amazing feeling. I don’t think I took my black belt off all day and I may have even slept in it that night! I gained a real sense of responsibility when I got my black belt. It inspired me to train harder and become a role model for the younger students, especially the girls. I want to show them, that girls can do this just as well as the boys.

You have recently brought home national and world titles in martial arts. Can you tell us what they were and what it is was like competing?

I competed in Nationals in December 2022 and brought home 2 gold, 2 silvers and 1 bronze. This was my first Australian Title event and I was stoked with the results of becoming an Australian Champion. I

and Sword Combat, they help to calm the nerves. Other events are traditional forms, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and No Gi Grappling, Point Sparring, Clash Sparring and Light Kick. Next year I would like to branch out and compete with some other organisations.

How did you feel when you won gold?

Relieved and excited. I’d been training hard all year to prepare for World Cup and to come away with a world championship was so awesome.

All my hard work had paid off.

opportunity to achieve this. I hope to advance my black belt, maybe own a gym of my own one day and really be a solid role model and inspiration for all girls. Hopefully I may be able to pick up a couple of sponsors next year, to help with the cost of travelling to events. Another interest I have is marine biology and I would like to become a marine biologist one day also.

Thanks Alexis.

Taekwondo isn’t the only sport you train in, tell us about the others and is there a particular favourite?

I train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and some Mauy Thai Kickboxing. Outside of the dojo I play competition basketball on Saturdays and have joined the school teams for basketball, softball and cricket. My favourite is definitely Taekwondo. compete again at Nationals in December 2023. In September 2023, I competed in QLD and won 5 QLD State Titles. I also competed in the World Cup in October 2023 – I was selected to be a flag bearer in the opening ceremony which was cool.

There were 1400 competitors from 12 countries, so I was very nervous in the lead up. I come home with 5 Championship belts, 1st Light Kick, 2nd Clash Sparring, 2nd Jiu Jitsu, 3rd Sumo and 3rd Sword Combat. I came home a world champion and I really don’t think that has sunk in yet. Super exciting, but a very intense 2 days of competition.

How are the competitions held and how many people do you compete against?

I have been competing in ISKA, International Sport Karate Association. I like to compete in QLD events, as there are more competitors in my divisions there. Nationals and World Cup were held in Sydney. There are usually 8-10 girls in my divisions and a round robin determines the winner. I usually compete in 8 classes at each tournament. Fun events are Sumo

What does a usual week look like for you and how do you manage not only all the training but school as well?

Sundays and Mondays are rest days, although sometimes I do some kicking on the bag. Tuesday to Thursdays I train and help teach junior belts between 4.00pm and 6.00pm.

Saturdays are basketball days. I don’t get too much homework in primary school, so I manage ok at the moment.

Where do you hope to see yourself in the next 5 years and what are some of your aspirations?

I would like to set a goal of competing at Olympic level Taekwondo and Brisbane 2032 Olympics being the perfect COFFS COAST focus 89

Valley

BRAVES

Focus talks to Shane, President of Valley Braves Basketball, about the unique Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge, a basketball tournament that promotes inclusion and pays tribute to one of the club’s beloved founders.

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ey Shane, Can you tell us a little about the history and mission of Valley Braves Basketball?

Valley Braves Basketball was established in 2006 with the aim to provide a variety of basketball programs accessible to everyone and to foster a positive community culture. We are a community, non-profit, all volunteer sporting association.

Our mission is to create an inclusive, engaging and vibrant basketball environment where our members are encouraged and supported to reach their full potential both on and off the court.

The 'Be Brave' values of sportsmanship, leadership, community, teamwork, and passion are at the core of your organisation. How do these values contribute to creating an inclusive and vibrant basketball environment for your 90 COFFS COAST focus

members?

We take immense pride in nurturing the skills and character of our young athletes.

By adopting our ‘Be Brave’ values, athletes create an inclusive culture which encourages all members to grow and develop into young leaders. This supportive and engaging culture ensures everyone is welcome, valued and respected, regardless of ability, experience or circumstance. The sense of community, which we value highly, creates a support system where members know they belong and are part of something greater. Incorporating these 'Be Brave' values into our culture, policies, and dayto-day operations leads to a more inclusive and vibrant basketball environment by promoting this sense of belonging.

The Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge has a special significance in your club's history. Could you share more about how the tournament was established and the

decision to rename it in honour of Bronwyn Vigors?

Valley Braves first established the Pacific Challenge in 2015 when we saw the need and opportunity to provide a tournament with the aim of promoting inclusion and fostering a friendly environment for all basketballers.

We wanted to provide a unique platform for individuals of various backgrounds, skill levels, and abilities to come together and enjoy the sport in a high calibre tournament. In 2016, the tournament was renamed the Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge in honour of one of our founding members and beloved Club President who passed away earlier that year.

Considering Bronny’s tireless work ethic and her constant motto of everything being for the kids, we thought it was very fitting to rename the carnival, aimed at promoting inclusion and fostering a friendly environment, after her.

What makes the Bronwyn Vigors Pacific

The BVPC is unique as it is the only tournament on the North Coast that has teams competing from across two states. This gives the local teams a rare opportunity to play against teams from Queensland, enhancing their basketball skills, and ensuring our local teams are more competitive during their representative games.

BVPC is a high calibre tournament open to all teams that provides a unique opportunity for new and experienced basketballers to come together and have a full tournament experience in one weekend.

S H A N E

Challenge unique compared to other basketball tournaments on the Coffs Coast, and how does it cater to players and teams of all abilities?

How have you seen the tournament grow since its inception in 2015?

This year has seen a record breaking amount of teams enter. Nominations needed to be closed early as we had reached the maximum capacity The tournament of 80 teams and 165 was renamed the tournament games. We Bronwyn Vigors have expanded into three Pacific Challenge in locations across Coffs Harbour with Sportz honour of one of our Central, Bishop Druitt founding members and College and Southern beloved Club President NCB is not limited to Cross University all who passed away the BVPC but has also hosting BVPC games earlier that year. delivered other basketball over the weekend. We initiatives for the North have also scheduled Coast community such as games on Friday night free holiday camps, transportation to basketball to accommodate the increased participation events and training activities that utilise the and to get as many young basketballers on the vast experience of the Valley Braves and NCB court as possible. We are excited to be hosting all these visiting and local teams, and are certain coaches. Our unique partnership is a strong that this year’s tournament will once again foundation to encourage and support the showcase the strength and spirit of our club. growth of basketball on the North Coast.

In 2021, you formed a partnership with North Coast Basketball (NCB) to support the Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge. How has this collaboration enhanced the event, and what role does NCB play in its success?

Valley Braves and NCB have proudly worked in partnership since 2021 to host the Annual BVPC. It is through this partnership that the BVPC is seeing record numbers with participation reaching beyond the North Coast and into Queensland. Our partnership with

Finally, could you share any heartwarming stories or memorable moments from past tournaments that capture the spirit and essence of the Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge and Valley Braves Basketball as a whole?

It is more the uniqueness of our event and the teamwork, sportsmanship and community that is experienced throughout the tournament, rather than any single memorable moment, that we are most proud of. The BVPC brings people

together whilst still showcasing exceptional basketball talent. Players, coaches and clubs returning to enjoy our tournament year after year and our community of volunteers, sponsors, and enthusiastic spectators enjoying the journey together all capture the essence of the BVPC; creating a sense of belonging and unity and showcasing the positive impact of sports on individuals and communities. For this reason, undoubtedly, Bronwyn Vigors would be proud to see the success of the Pacific Challenge.

As we gear up for this exciting tournament, we want to extend our gratitude to each and every one of our club members for their commitment and unwavering support to host this event.

With special thanks to Jenny and Nicole Howarth, Robbie Linton, Candice Stunt and Carolyn King. We look forward to welcoming all the teams competing in the 2023 Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge.

Thanks Shane.

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Five local women who recently graduated with the Diploma of Ceramics from Coffs Harbour TAFE, will be presenting an exhibition of their final works ‘5 Shades of Clay’ at Coffs Central Shopping Centre from 1st - 11th December.

DUBRAVKA SABLJAK, BRIDGETTE VARTIAINEN, FIONA MINTO, SASKIA KLOP, MARG SIMONS

Shades OF CL AY

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hat motivated you to start your Diploma of Ceramics?

Clay is the medium that unites us all. Between us we have diverse professional backgrounds. We came together with a shared desire to further our skills and learn new techniques.

We each have a unique style, evolving from our personal backgrounds and experiences and it has been inspiring to watch each other’s work come to life during the course.

The upcoming exhibition is the culmination of 18 months of learning and creating both individually and collectively. We look forward to showcasing our work.

You have been working hard on your final works, can you tell us about them. Was there a brief or theme for the works?

In our final semester we were asked to develop and present a cohesive body of work that reflected our knowledge and personal style. Each of us has responded to this

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challenge in our own way, which is reflected in the exhibition title ‘Five Shades of Clay’.

Could you describe some of the design process involved and how you came to decide on your final designs? How would you describe each of your styles and how do they differ?

We all approach clay in a different way, which is reflected in the work. From slip casting to hand building and throwing we have all developed our own techniques and styles.

Dubravka: My design process is a response to my inner healing journey. I use clay as a vehicle to tell my story. Each work reveals an inner thought or emotion. My work is not perfectly finished, (if there is such a thing as perfect), refined or detailed. I use clay to capture gestures and responses to feelings, quickly creating sculptures that are spontaneous and expressive. I focus on the human form sometimes combined with animal or mystical beings such as eagles and spiritual goddesses.

This reflects my inner self.

Bridgette: I prefer the organic process of hand building and enjoy spending time focusing

your final works, what can we expect from this show? on the finer details of painting whimsical and elaborate scenes. My ceramic pieces are canvases for storytelling.

imperfect. I love to use coloured porcelain, appreciating its translucency. My "Message in a Bottle" pieces are designed to be collectible, each having unique personalities.

Fiona: I experimented with hand building and I experimented with Nerikomi (compressed wheel throwing as part of the course and layers of coloured clay ) and have literally eventually decided to focus on slip casting jumped for joy after the final glazing having for my final body of work. Slip (liquid clay) overcome many of the provides endless technical challenges. My possibilities such as ‘Spring Has Sprung‘ marbling, splattering We each have collection are hand built and staining the clay quirky and fun functional a unique in different colours. pieces. style, evolving I had lots of fun experimenting with all the possibilities this process invited.

from our personal backgrounds and experiences and it has been inspiring to watch each other’s work come to life during the course.

Saskia: As much as I would like to say it was a clear path for my final designs from beginning to end, in reality it has been more like an obstacle course to be tackled with determination! I enjoy making pieces that are functional but playfully sculptural, inviting a second look. As Fiona said to me recently and very aptly “you can’t do wacky by halves.”

Marg: I have created wheel-thrown pieces, trimming them to make them perfectly

Warning! Ceramics is addictive.

What have been some of the standout experiences from your time completing your diploma?

Ceramics is not a simple process. There are many techniques and skills to develop and it's always exciting when pieces come out of the kiln as anticipated or even better! The opportunity to be involved in wood firing and making creative friendships that extend beyond the classroom have been standout experiences coupled with access to TAFE facilities and materials.

You will be putting on the exhibition of

The ‘Five Shades of Clay’ exhibition will be showcasing our final body of work. You will see a diverse array of designs incorporating different textures, styles and colours. The works include small delicate wheel thrown pieces to bold sculptural works.

How has the experience of the five of you working on your own pieces and coming together for the exhibition been like?

We feel lucky to have met each other through the Diploma of Ceramics at Coffs Harbour TAFE. It has been a challenging and rewarding journey and we have supported each other along the way. Juggling life, family, work, health and study ... we all feel like superwomen! We have a sense of anticipation and achievement in the lead up to our exhibition. We would like to thank Cath Fogerty, Cath O’Gorman, Phil Greed, Lyn Anderson and Kayleen Elliot.

Can you give us all the details of the upcoming exhibition?

Five Shades of Clay will be showcased at Coffs Harbour Central Shopping Centre – Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour. Opening Friday, December 1st 5.00pm – 7.00pm. The exhibition is from the 2 – 11 December. Open Monday to Saturday 10.00am – 4.00pm and Sunday 10.00am – 2.00pm.

Thanks Ladies.

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State

Forests of the NSW Mid North Coast

Why visit NSW State Forests?

Because State Forests offer the widest diversity of naturebased recreation, sporting & leisure activities available. We spoke with Leah Moncrieff, Partnerships Leader for the Mid North Coast, with Forestry Corporation of NSW’s Tourism and Recreation Team.

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eah, tell us about some of the activities that are helping to raise the profile of NSW State Forests as a recreation destination. NSW State Forests are particularly unique as visitors can experience nature-based and ecotourism experiences ranging from camping, horse riding, citizen science, hunting and bushwalking to anything else you can think of, including 4WDriving and trail bike riding – for free. By providing visitor areas and allowing various activities in forests, we are supporting the conservation efforts of other public lands whilst also giving people places to play and stay in forests, which is so important ot our health and wellbeing these days.

Tell us more about forest destinations for visitors to the Mid North Coast. We have some beautiful, pristine visitor areas within the Mid North Coast, and our image library tells the story better than I ever could. We offer visitor day use areas, campgrounds, BBQs, swimming holes and bushwalks, all geared towards enjoying the simple life, and as a get away from the regular hum-drum. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy the ever-changing scenery of NSW State Forests? Some of my recommended areas are : Coopernook HQ. A large flat camping area,

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not far from the Pacific Highway, just north of Taree in Coopernoook State Forest, with drop toilet facilities and electric BBQs, handy to both Port Macquarie and Taree for visitors. Good for an overnight stay or for a few days as a base for exploring the area.

Swans Crossing. Very popular with families, on the edge of Upsalls Creek in Kerewong State Forest where you can enjoy a dip on a hot summer’s day. Swans Crossing includes a nature playground, walking track, toilet facilities and a large area where families can play safely away from traffic.

Old Bottlebutt. Home of the largest Bloodwood tree in the southern hemisphere.

Old Bottlebutt (Corymbia gummifera) can be found at the end of a short walking track through the forest. The visitor area provides toilets and a large, sheltered picnic area great for a day trip and picnic for those out-of-town visitors.

Number 1 Tower. Site of the former Bellangry Fire Tower, with sweeping views of the Wilson River catchment right to the coastline. Popular with birdwatchers and a great spot for a picnic.

Easily accessible from Hastings Forest Way. Wild Bull and The Bluff. These two small gems are both located in Mount Boss State Forest 1 km apart. They are beautiful examples of mountain campgrounds on the banks of the

Wilson River.

Are there any new visitor areas being planned? Guulabaa – Place of Koala, Cowarra State Forest.

Guulabaa – Place of Koala in Cowarra State Forest is a new tourism precinct close to the Pacific Highway, between Port Macquarie and Wauchope. Guulabaa is a very special partnership project, between Forestry Corporation of NSW, Koala Conservation Australia (KCA), Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council, WildNets and Hello Koalas. For now, Guulabaa is a great place for the kids to come and enjoy WildNets treetop experience or have their photo taken with The Big Koala sculpture.

Coming soon is the Koala Wild Breeding Centre (first of its kind in the world) and the Bunyah Café and Art Gallery are future attractions. Watch this space!

What’s your take home message for visitors to Mid North Coast? Come and have a free camping holiday in our State Forests, bring your dog, and experience nature in all its glory! You can explore and experience what NSW State Forests has to offer. They are beautiful all year around, and an unmissable stop on the stunning NSW Mid North Coast.

Learn more:

@visitnswforests

forestrycorporation.com.au/visit

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focus_contributor.

PEACE, LOVE AND JOY

STAT E O F

PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

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s the Christmas holidays often forget the beauty of rest. Christmas approach, our streets and offers a rare pause, a time to step back homes begin to sparkle from our busy schedules and breathe. It’s with the lights of Christmas, a moment to reflect on the year that has reminding us of the warmth passed, with its challenges and triumphs, and and to look forward with hope. As we love that this time of gather around the year brings.

The joy of Christmas tree or sit Growing up, Christmas Christmas is down for a meal with in our household was a not in the material family and friends, we beacon of togetherness but in the heartfelt are reminded of the and joy. Each Christmas conversations, the importance of these Eve, our extended shared laughter, moments of peace and family would gather, and the feeling relaxation. filling our home with of being part of a Renewal is another laughter and stories. As community. cornerstone of the children, the highlight Christmas spirit. It’s was the sleepover with not just about the new all my cousins, eagerly gifts we exchange or the new year ahead, awaiting the celebrations of Christmas Day. but about renewing our bonds with those we This tradition, a simple yet profound act, hold dear. In a world that moves at breakneck laid the foundation of my understanding of speed, taking a moment to reconnect with Christmas; a time for rest, reflection, renewal, family and friends, to share stories and and, most importantly, reuniting with friends create new memories, is invaluable. The joy and family. of Christmas is not in the material but in the In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we 96 COFFS COAST focus

heartfelt conversations, the shared laughter,

and the feeling of being part of a community.

As an elected representative, I have witnessed firsthand how the festive season brings out the best in our local communities. Acts of kindness, large and small, become more frequent, and there’s a tangible sense of goodwill in the air. It’s a time when we are reminded of our shared humanity and the strength we derive from being part of a community. This Christmas, let us extend our hand in friendship and solidarity, celebrating our unity and the common values that bind us together.

The Christmas holidays are much more than just a holiday; it’s a season that embodies rest, reflection, renewal, and relationships. As we celebrate these holidays, let us embrace these values, carrying them into the new year and beyond. Let’s remember the joy of simple traditions, like those cherished family gatherings on Christmas Eve, and recognise the profound impact they have on our lives.

May this Christmas be a time of happiness, health, and heartwarming connections for all.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas filled with peace, love, and joy.

The NSW Government is helping reduce the cost of living with more than 70 rebates and vouchers.

By answering the tailored questions in the Service NSW Savings Finder tool, you can find rebates and vouchers relevant to you.

You can apply by visiting service.nsw.gov.au or by scanning the QR code.

Gurmesh SINGH MP coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6652 6500

Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements September 2022 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements July 2023

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Tony Rothacker started Youngster.co to try and create connection between the generations and tackle loneliness in both young people and seniors, whilst providing a service that uses youngsters tech knowledge to assist our older community members in getting more tech-savvy. Tony has recently been selected for the Snow Entrepreneurs Fellowship, which will allow him to advance his mission even further.

H

i Tony. Can you tell us a bit about Youngster. co and its unique approach to bridging the intergenerational gap and addressing loneliness among young and old?

Tony Rhacker

Absolutely, I’d be delighted to. At Youngster. co, we’ve recognised that while technology is rapidly advancing, it’s inadvertently widening the gap between generations.

Many seniors find themselves struggling to keep up, which We collaborate can lead to feelings of with schools, isolation. Conversely, allowing students to young people, often engrossed in their digital volunteer their time worlds, can become and, upon completion tackling loneliness disconnected from the of a 10-week program, head-on. broader community. receive certificates and Our approach is to How did the idea scholarships turn this challenge for the organisation supported by Google. into an opportunity for come about? connection and mutual The seed was planted learning. By engaging during an open innovation project aimed at tech-savvy youngsters to assist seniors with addressing youth suicide in regional NSW. It technology, we’re fostering a community became clear that there was a broader issue where knowledge and stories are shared, at hand – the need for community connection bridging the generational divide and are and support. From this, Youngster.co was

Youngster.co

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born, with the dual mission of empowering our youth and providing companionship and tech assistance to seniors.

How does the program work specifically?

How do you connect Youngsters and Seniors?

Our program is multifaceted. We collaborate with schools, allowing students to volunteer their time and, upon completion of a 10-week program, receive certificates and scholarships supported by Google.

We also partner with community services like NDIS, aged care, and home care providers to offer our services to their clients.

The key part of the program is to create accessible and safe spaces for learning and interaction. Libraries and shopping centres are great spaces and help us to activate the local youth and seniors.

We welcome all youngsters who have basic understanding of tech and an interest in helping others – no formal qualifications are necessary.

Additionally, we can also assist small and medium businesses, who may require assistance to upskill mature age workers with basic tech skills.

For direct assistance, seniors can request our services, and we offer remote help if a local, vetted youngster isn’t available.

What is the criteria for youngsters that would like to get involved? How do you balance creating work and volunteering experiences for young people?

We welcome all youngsters who have basic understanding of tech and an interest in helping others – no formal qualifications are necessary. Our youngsters undergo an induction process, learning essential customer service skills and our core values, such as punctuality, politeness, helping others and effective communication. While all youngsters

are compensated for their time, only those 18 and older assist in homes or businesses.

Younger volunteers typically come through our school programs.

How have you seen the Youngster.co model impact both the seniors and the young volunteers/employees involved?

Are there any memorable stories or experiences that stand out to you?

The impact has been profound. One touching moment was witnessing the pride and emotion in parents’ eyes as they watched their teenagers patiently guide seniors through new technologies. It’s these intergenerational connections that truly highlight the essence of our mission.

Congratulations on being selected for the Snow Entrepreneurs Fellowship! Can you share your initial reaction and what this recognition means for Youngster.co and your mission?

Thank you! Being recognised by the Snow Foundation, an organisation that shares our values of creating a better world, was

incredibly affirming. Beyond the financial support, their rigorous selection process and focus on community resilience have propelled us into the national spotlight, validating our work and mission.

With Youngster.co going national, what are your goals and aspirations for the organisation in the coming years?

We’re setting our sights high. To assist us with scaling we’re actively seeking partnerships with smaller companies that could benefit from upskilling their mature age workforce in using tech, whether it’s mastering Google Sheets, Excel, or navigating new software they are implementing. Our goal is to become a nationally recognised brand for tech education and intergenerational collaboration.

What have been some of the biggest lessons you have learned over the course of starting and running Youngster.co?

One of the greatest lessons has been the value of intergenerational exchange.

The younger generation has an innate tech fluency that, when shared, can be incredibly empowering for seniors. It’s a reminder that learning is a two-way street, and sometimes, we just need to remind our youngsters to pace it for everyone to keep up.

Thanks Tony.

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Wishing all our customers a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year