Coffs Coast Focus i43

Feature Story

COFFS COAST

April 2014// issue 43

• M i c h a e l

K i n g •

The Jetty Memorial Theatre

coffs coast focus 3

r

t! B n a t

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editor's note.

focus C O F F S C OA S T

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

ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts.

EDITOR: Melly Dee melly@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Nicci Seccombe

Melly Dee.

editor.

from the

Welcome to the April issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

nicole@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au

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

PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals.

Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

W

e had such a nice time putting this edition together, and this month's front cover really sets the tone.

This month I decided that I would go out and interview young local people who are having huge success both locally, nationally and internationally…

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Bonville born and bred Stuart Cook is the global CEO of Zambrero, a quick service Mexican restaurant franchise that employs 900 people!

David Greentree-Brammah is the theatre manager at Jetty Theatre.

This year the theatre is celebrating its Ruby Years. G.J. Gardner Homes

owners Rick and Susan Fischer are about to move into their new space in Orlando Street, and we have dedicated a huge feature to them in anticipation of their move.

Turn to our editorial flat lay page to see a collection of our favourite items, all available from our local retailers. If you have anything you'd like to feature on this page, please email me.

It's no secret that I love art, and this month we report on a pop-up gallery conveniently located in Coffs Central, Art Central. Eight artists have collaborated in showcasing their works in this creative hub. We recently attended their opening; founder Jeramie Scahill turned on

a great opening bash. If you would like us to attend your event, please feel free to contact us. We'd love to include your event in our social pages.

ON THE COVER Woolgoolga raised Michael King has dedicated his life to wellbeing and is now spreading the fruits of his knowledge in his Wholly Human workshops.

ED’S PIC This photo was taken at Villa Vivante by Peter Sechi www. sechiphotography.com/ FINAL SAY… "You only live once, but if you work it right, once is enough.”

– Joe E. Lewis.

Melly Dee – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Twitter: @le_mellydee

coffs coast focus 5

Interview by Hilary Davies

focusinterview.

The Jetty Memorial Theatre is undoubtedly one of the gems of Coffs Harbour. The heritage listed building is

celebrates its ruby years

full of character and history.

The start of 2014 marked

Coffs Harbour Theatre Community Members

the 85th year of the theatre, and it is now a decade since a major renovation saw it become the performing arts venue that it is today.

e caught up with Theatre Manager, Each season we present a great mix of films, dance, comedy, David Greentree-Brammah to physical/circus theatre and Burlesque, music, children’s shows, hear that although the theatre workshops and yes, of course theatre and drama. This year is celebrating its ‘Ruby years’, it the professional touring shows we’re presenting include is moving forward as a venue to Melbourne Ballet Company, Melbourne Comedy Festival showcase the cutting edge of Roadshow, On/Off and Flickerfest. For younger audiences, local, national and international performing arts, alongside we have The Incredible Book Eating Boy and Marty Putz. preserving heritage.

We also present some great musical acts: everything from Dave, tell us a little bit about yourself – what classical to jazz. We’ve just confirmed Josh Pyke, and later has your career involved prior to becoming in the season we have Casey Donovan and Christine Manager of Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Memorial Anu. Last year Vince Jones and Sarah Blasko Theatre? both commented on the character and sound I grew up in Newcastle before moving quality of the theatre, which make it an to Christchurch, NZ. I returned in the ideal venue for memorable and intimate t We just wouldn’ early ‘90s to study music, particularly performances. be here without electronic music. I worked in And of course, we have the of our amazing team , who the music industry for years; wonderful local community theatre rs tireless voluntee to in production, events, venues, groups who are very much at the heart rs to si vi ensure that touring, performing and also some of the theatre and an integral part of ive a the theatre rece d are teaching at the Northern Rivers its history. Over the years these vibrant an warm welcome Conservatorium. I brought my family groups have treated Coffs Harbour r.” te well looked af to beautiful Coffs a few years ago. audiences to a great array of shows What about the theatre? What incorporating musical theatre, classic happens there? and modern theatre and some debuts by We are so lucky in this town to have such talented local playwrights. The community a fantastic performing arts venue. We have a theatre groups operate on a non-professional basis, great program of varied shows throughout the year. with many members assisting with voluntary roles at the Because the venue is intimate with 250 seats, it means that theatre. It makes for a fantastic atmosphere at the theatre – it there is no such thing as a ‘bad seat’ at the Jetty Theatre is a creative community hub, and there is always some fun – even from the back row, you get a great view of all the waiting in the wings. And we just wouldn’t be here without on-stage action. The acoustics at the theatre are fantastic, so it our amazing team of tireless volunteers, who ensure that really lends itself to the great range of shows that we present visitors to the theatre receive a warm welcome and are well here. These are a few of the reasons that led Russell Crowe to looked after. choose the Jetty Theatre as the only venue in Australia to host What’s the history of the theatre? his ‘Indoor Garden Party’.

The theatre was originally opened as a public hall in 1928 So what shows do you have on at the theatre? to serve as a memorial to soldiers from World War I and to

“

6 coffs coast focus.

provide a space for community dances and social events, especially for the returned service men and women to socialise. From the 1950s to the late ‘70s the theatre mostly operated as a cinema. Then from the early 1980s until 2003, the theatre was managed by a community-based committee which developed it for local community theatre productions.

Later in 2003, the theatre underwent a major restoration, notably funded by the Coffs Harbour City Council, which transformed the building into the 250 seat contemporary performing arts venue it is now.

So what changes and innovations have happened at the theatre?

In the last 85 years the theatre has seen a lot of changes, that’s for sure. Each element of the theatre experience has now been brought up to date, from online bookings through to the air conditioned auditorium, our cosy bar, spacious verandah and the great coffee we serve pre-show! We’ve just upgraded our AV equipment with surround sound and Full High Definition projector, so once again we’ll be screening films – watch this space for a great program of independent cinema and of course, the annual Short Sharp Film Festival.

The theatre is also now capable of hosting a wide range of functions beyond live theatre, including annual general meetings, professional seminars, weddings and private functions, which brings us full circle to being the social space that the building was originally designed for, in addition to delivering our contemporary cultural program.

Visions for the future?

To keep offering a great variety of culture, shows, performing arts and entertainment which cater for all tastes, in a venue which maintains the historical character that makes it such a unique treasure.

For information and bookings, see jettytheatre.com - visit or call the box office between noon and 4pm, Tuesdays to Fridays on 02 6652 8088 and like www.facebook.com/ jettymemorialtheatre - Thanks David.

12.

14.

Art Central.

inside this

Art Central is a new pop up art gallery in Coffs Central. The gallery showcases works by eight different artists, including Kerry Brockhoff Smith, Carmel Debreuil, Hector Gonzales, Adrienne Hmelnitsky, Jeramie Scahill, Jimmy Wags, Ian Watson and Alison Williams, who have a variety of styles and experience.

Issue 43 - April 2014

Stuart Cook.

Bonville born and bred, Stuart Cook is the global CEO of Zambrero, a quick service Mexican restaurant franchise with strong humanitarian values, where every burrito or bowl enjoyed at the restaurants feeds someone less fortunate through Zambrero’s plate for plate charity. Stuart was appointed CEO of Zambrero just before his 24th birthday in 2009, qualifying him as one of the youngest franchise CEOs in the world.

14.

78.

80.

8 0.

usual suspects.

28.

Bliss N Esso.

Bliss N Eso are continuing on from their massive year that was 2013 and kicking off 2014 with the announcement that their current single, My Life (feat. Ceekay Jones) has now reached Gold sales status in Australia, just weeks after being added to radio ...

the

8. what’s on for April 24. eat featuring local restaurants 54. social scene with Carole Beros

62. star guide with Terri 89. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast

No matter where you are in the world,, read Focus for free online every month th @

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

coffs coast focus 7

AROUND THE REGION //APRIL 2014

18

19

CHARITY FISH AUCTIONS

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At Coffs Harbour Deep Sea Fishing Club during the 2014 Easter Fishing Classic, competitors donate their catch to Marine Rescue as a 'thank you for looking after us'. Glenn Aylward donates his time to conduct the Charity Fish Auctions to help Marine Rescue. Come along and buy some fish caught during 2014 Easter Fishing Classic.

When Good Friday (18 April) at 3pm and Sunday 20 April at 1pm.

Contact Linda on 0412 681 666 for more info.

BLISS N ESO 'CIRCUS UNDER THE STARS' OUTDOOR TOUR WITH HORRORSHOW & SETH SENTRY When Saturday 19 April 2014 Where Coffs Harbour Showground Tickets www.moshtix.com.au Cost $65 General – All AGES $99 VIP – All AGES.

FANCY SCHMANCY MONDAY

Fettuccine Marinara Pan-fr -ffr frriied ied d prawns, s, squ squid, id d sa salmo lmo mon mo n, sca scallloopps, s, ssn n naappe appe p r with fe f ttucciine, bo bound un u nd in a tom om mato too, ggar ar a lic lic & her herb sauce and he d topped toppped p d with wiith h Parmesan cheese.

2 Moonee Beach Rd, Moonee Beach | Ph: 6653 6199 | www.mooneebeachtavern.com.au au | facebook.com/mooneebeachtavern facebook com/mooneebeachtavern

Searching for unique home wares, old antiques or bric-a-brac? The first Sunday of every month, try the Coffs Harbour City Lions Club Car Boot Market.

When First Sunday of every month.

Where Jetty Foreshores.

Cost Free admission.

Contact 6652 2919.

trivia night Help raise funds and attend The Kids Foundation trivia night. The event is being staged on 30 April at Opal Cove Resort, and we are assured it will be a night filled with plenty of laughs and entertainment. No brain cells required to have some fun, just a great night out to raise funds for the Kids Foundation.

Earth Hour Film Night ‘2 Degrees’ Join your friends and family for a film and pizza night at Coffs Community Gardens from 6.30pm Saturday 29 March 2014.

Earth Hour Film Night: ‘2 Degrees’ Coffs Coast Climate Action Group public launch.

When Saturday 29 March, 6.30pm.

More info coffsharbourclimateaction@gmail or find us on facebook for further details

More info www.kidsfoundation.org.au

FANCY SCHMANCY TUESDAY

FANCY SCHMANCY WEDNESDAY

FANCY SCHMANCY FRIDAY

Lamb Rump

Duck Breast

Pork Cutlet

Veal Cutlet

Con C Co oon nfit du uck ck br b eas eastt se seerv rrved d wit with pootato otaato ot too ga galette, te, pe peaa pu pureee & drizz izzlled led d w h wild wit i berry rry ju us.

Pan-seearre red, ed, d ser served vved ed d on cream crream my maash h po potat t o tat wit wi itth ca cab cab abbagge, e bbac acon, on n st steeame ea ed ggre reens ns wiit wit with ith apricot ot & app apple le chut chu h tney hu tney in a bran brandy dyy sau uce ce. e.

Grilleed an nd d res rested ted ted d on ga garlic rli lic roas roa oas asste ted d ch c ats a , spi piicy cy swe ssw weet po pottaato to, stea stea team me brocc med occcoli liinii & topp opp op ppe ped ed with pink pe peppe pperco rcorrn sau rco sa ce.

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2 Moonee Beach Rd, Moonee Beach | Ph: 6653 6199 | www.mooneebeachtavern.com.au au | facebook.com/mooneebeachtavern facebook com/mooneebeachtavern

2 Moonee Beach Rd, Moonee Beach | Ph: 6653 6199 | www.mooneebeachtavern.com.au au | facebook.com/mooneebeachtavern facebook com/mooneebeachtavern

each ch

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LUNCH L LU UNC UNC NCH CH & DINN DINNER DIINN DIN NN NER ER | 6 DAYS A WEEK | MONDAY TO SATURDAY

FREE ice cream & soft drink with any kids meal FREE kids movies, chairs, play room & jumping castle

2 Moonee Moonee Beach B each Rd Rd | Moonee Beach | Ph: 6653 6199 | mooneebeachtavern.com.au m.au u 8 coffs coast focus.

Coffs Harbour City Lions Club CAR BOOT MARKET

ea.

Slow w cook ooook ooked okeed, d se d, serve rveed with with t gr grill illed ill il ed zuc z cchiini, roas oastte teed d ca cappssicum m, eggp ggpllan lan nt, cou ouss cous us an and d ste team te am ame med green n bean beans, s, wit w th h a si side d off de B h Hone Bus Hone o y yogh yoghurt urt an and d mint mint..

2 Moonee Beach Rd, Moonee Beach | Ph: 6653 6199 | www.mooneebeachtavern.com.au au | facebook.com/mooneebeachtavern facebook com/mooneebeachtavern

claims line honours in

BCU COFFS TRI Professional triathlete Brad Kahlefeldt claimed line honours in today’s Olympic distance bcu Coffs Tri in a new course record. rad crossed the finish line in a time of 1:53:41 collecting $1,000 prize money for his efforts. Just over ninety seconds behind was Lindsey Wall from Yamba in a time of 1:55:24, and in third place was Coffs Harbour local, Richard Pearson in 1:56.23.

Kahlefeldt led from the start all the way to the finish. He came out of the water with a 23 second lead over Pearson.

Wall reeled Pearson in on the bike and passed him on the second lap of the two-lap course. At one stage Pearson looked like getting back into 2nd position but couldn’t match Wall’s pace on the run.

Kahlefeldt said after the event he “really enjoyed the race and loved the picturesque Coffs Harbour triathlon course and would be back to do it again.”

The first female across the line was Matilda Raynolds from Sydney, completing the course in 2:15.26, followed by Emma ComanJeffries from Nudgee, Queensland in 2:17:48,

B

just ahead of Ellen McDonald from Queensland’s Palm Beach in 2:18.34.

The top three girls shared a prize pool of $2,250.

Over 650 participants from the Coffs Coast Really enjo ye d the and beyond took part a go, the Enticer attracted the an in the 2nd annual bcu race d loved 120 starters, many of ffs picturesque Co Coffs Tri weekend whom were doing their n Harbour triathlo be of events. Athletes very first triathlon. ld course and wou ranged from four to Michellie Jones, one of n” back to do it agai well over 70 years, all the most recognised names displaying similar levels in the sport of triathlon was of enthusiasm. unable to race the Olympic Saturday’s events included distance due to injury and was aquathons and triathlons for the first across the line in the shorter children aged 4-14 and an ‘Enticer’ Enticer event. She then stayed around to hand event (375m/10km/2.5km). Over 200 children out medals to all the kids as they crossed the turned out for the kids races on Saturday and finish line. men and women of all fitness levels lined up Sunday saw the cream of the crop in fitness for the Enticer event. Offered as an ‘entry level’ take over the course with 250 individuals and triathlon for those wanting to give the sport 28 teams lined up on the Jetty Beach for the

“

Olympic distance triathlon - a 1500m swim in the harbour, 40km cycle on a flat, closed road and a 10km run around the harbour foreshores.

Village Sports event director Mick Maley was thrilled with this year’s event. “We’ve had a really positive response from both competitors and spectators,” Mick said. “Coffs locals are proud to have such a great sporting event in their town and we as organisers are thrilled with the outcome.“ Village Sports would like to extend a huge thank you to all its sponsors and over 300 volunteers who helped run the event. Without the support of the Coffs Harbour community, major events such as this would not be possible. www.villagesports.com.au

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coffs coast focus 9

H

Artist Profile Sara Wade

Artist Profile

SarahWade Sara Wade has recently been represented in the EMSLA at Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery and is about to exhibit at the Nexus Gallery in Bellingen, from April 27 to May 23.

ow would you describe the work that you are showing at the Nexus Gallery in Bellingen in April /May? The work in this exhibition relates to the process of change, and the show is called Shaping and Shifting. I continue to explore and abstract elements to portray the energy of landscape and return to working with figurative pieces for this body of work. Charcoal, gesso and acrylics shift between drawings and paintings; hard edges overlay and simplify the works.

How long have you lived on the Mid North Coast, and how does the region inspire your work?

I have lived on the Mid North Coast of NSW for 30 years in Coffs Harbour, Kempsey and Nambucca Shires. With interludes of several years working in Europe, Lord Howe Island and travels to Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Sicily and Morocco, returning to the NSW coastal environment has always beckoned me by its wonderful intricacy and energy. Its elements of chaos and balance inspire me and influence my composition and mark making, which extends into my figurative and narrative work.

What artists have inspired you on your creative journey?

Although there are many artists who inspire me, I find Matisse’s use of colour and pattern constantly refreshing ... Ian Fairweather, who works intuitively, Fred Williams, who captures the essence and abstraction of landscape, and Judy Cassab, who takes portraiture to another level.

Architecture and textiles also influence my visual aesthetic.

Where has your work sold and what collections is it held in?

I have exhibited and sold work through all the past and current local galleries, the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, Glass House Gallery, Matilda St Gallery, commissions, through art prizes and to private collectors, and I have work on my website: www.swadeartstudio.com What is the highest point of your creative career so far?

I am always encouraged when my work is included for selection in art prizes, and won the regional artist award for the EMSLA in 2009.

Gaining a contract for a commercial project, working with a professional team and producing a work of 13 panels for the foyer of ‘Gateway House’ in Coffs Harbour was very rewarding.

Teaching gives me motivation, and there is great satisfaction in unlocking creativity for others.

What do you do when you are not in your studio?

Lately my energy is going into coordinating/ running art workshops, working on a website and having a casual job to keep the ball rolling. I live at the edge of a forest and love to get my hands on a shovel or in the soil to generate gardens. I get a lot of pleasure having bird life around me to calm my soul.

Being keen on word play scrabble and solving cryptic crosswords provide me a relaxing challenge; the simple life keeps me busy!

Thanks Sara.

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coffs coast focus 11

focusinterview.

Art

Central 12 coffs coast focus focus.

Art Central is a new pop up art gallery in Coffs Central. The gallery showcases works by eight different artists, including Kerry Brockhoff Smith, Carmel Debreuil, Hector Gonzales, Adrienne Hmelnitsky, Jeramie Scahill, Jimmy Wags, Ian Watson and Alison Williams, who have a variety of styles and experience. The gallery offers sculpture, jewellery, paintings, prints, and more. It is run as a collective, with each artist working a day a week at the shop.

focusinterview.

hat is Art Central?

Art Central is a group of eight local artists who have come together to open a pop-up commercial art gallery located in Coffs Central.

In this latest gallery adventure, the artists involved in Art Central are all about bringing a new fresh outlook into the art experience in Coffs Harbour. The gallery is a relaxed and inviting place where people can wander in and find something they enjoy looking at. There is always an artist in the shop, so visitors can talk to them about their work and the work of the other artists. We are hoping that it will become a destination for art lovers and will encourage people to buy original art for their homes. It's in a fantastic location, and there are great boutiques and cafĂŠs at Coffs Central, so it can be part of an enjoyable day on the town.

It all started when local artist Jeramie Scahill had been running the shop on his own for a couple months. He has amazing work with big variety as he paints, sculpts and is a silversmith.

It was going really well, but he was opening the shop every day from 9 'til 5.30, and I think he was getting a bit burnt out. I was keen to come on board, and we tossed around the idea of a collective. He was keen, Coffs Central was keen, and the artists were keen, so it's worked really well.

Who are the eight artists, and describe their art styles ‌ Well, Kerry Brockhoff Smith is a painter who tends to paint scenes of childhood to establish social comment. Her series at the gallery features little children in yellow raincoats in purple landscapes. Hector Gonzales works with ink on paper, and his work is very detailed. It's quite small, so people get drawn right in. Adrienne Hmelnitsky has some amazing sculptures at the gallery, as

well as mixed media wall works. Her nudes are voluptuous and cheeky and strong. Jeramie Scahill is also a multi talented artist. His sculptures are sleek and cool, his paintings are large statement pieces, and his jewellery is divine. There is something really strong and powerful about his work, but it's also very sensual and delicate.

Jimmy Wags' work is super bright and colourful.

It's very cheeky and influenced by the surfer skate world. His style is really fresh and young. Ian Watson creates his wooden sculptures and boxes out of rosewood that he finds in Dorrigo. He finds beauty in the natural state of the wood, but also carves it into smooth curves that are highly polished. It's rugged, yet soft at the same time.

Alison Williams is an established and awards winning artist who works largely in paint and ceramics. She is Gumbaynggirr, and her work is influenced by the stories and art of her elders as well as the modern world. Her work is the beautiful swirl of past, present and future expressed through figures, colour and texture. My art is instantly recognisable, because I paint kids with glasses and cowboy boots. It's like my signature, or my brand. I like bad attitudes on cool kids and telling quirky stories through my paintings.

How do the daily operations of gallery run?

Is there a boss or do all artists that are exhibiting have a collective voice?

The gallery is open seven days a week, with each artist taking a turn at manning the shop one day a week. Of course everyone wants to be the boss (laughs) but basically so far, we've just had a couple meetings and if we are deciding something, we vote and go with the majority. It seems to work so far. It's interesting, because everyone is quite different, with unique points of view and aspirations, so it will be interesting to see where it goes.

Why have you only chosen local artists?

It was important to have artists who could man the shop! Also, it's great to be able to show-

case what is going on here and show that Coffs Harbour has as vibrant an art scene as places like Byron Bay, Bellingen, Sydney, and Melbourne.

There is a lot of talent here, and having a place like Art Central makes it really easy for people to wander in and enjoy what the locals are doing.

We are thinking it would be great to invite other artist run collectives from other communities to swap space with us, so that we could hang a wall of their work and they could do the same for us.

That way we can all connect with other artists, and people in Coffs won't have to travel far away to see what people in other communities are doing.

Out of all seven artists, who plays what role?

We all have the same responsibilities as far as running the gallery. Each month we'll nominate a different artist to re hang the gallery to keep it fresh. Right now we have a salon style hang, where the works of all the artists are intermingled and they aren't hung in a straight line. The goal was to keep it informal and inviting and exciting. When people visit the gallery, they wander through the space, almost as if they were in someone's home. It's very cosy. But the next hang might be a gallery hang with just a few pieces from each artist and much more formal!

Who knows? We'll keep mixing it up and putting in new art work, so that people can always see something new.

What are the future plans for the gallery?

We are hoping that it's going to be around for some time, although we are only a pop up.

We are definitely getting a lot of visitors every day and great feedback. People are really excited when they come in, and there is so much to look at. The location is really inviting, and we hope that people feel welcome and at ease when they come to Art Central. We are hoping to have art talks, art classes and special events. Right now we are just getting everything established, but we

are always thinking of new ways to make art an important part of everyone's life. Everyone should have original art in their home!

Are you open to submissions if an artist wanted to exhibit at Art Central?

We are always interested in seeing other artists' work. People who are interested in being a part of Art Central can drop off their CV and some work samples. Our plan is to expand the number of artists in the future and keep it happening. We are really interested in people who have high quality professionally presented work and are keen to be part of the collective.

Why do you think a pop-up gallery is good for Coffs Harbour? What do you think this type of thing brings to our community?

Art Central is great for Coffs Harbour. We have so much talent in this area, and it's great to have such a cool space to show the creativity of local talent. We have a great theatre, we have awesome local musical talent, and obviously we have some really strong artists as well. It's great for people to have places like this where they can see great art. We have quite a diverse stable at the moment, so there is basically something for everyone. People are more comfortable with artists, and more and more people are buying original art to decorate their homes. Some of the artists at Art Central are quite established and buying their work is a great idea, even from an investment point of view. Coffs Harbour is really starting to have a cool urban edge, with great shopping, great food places, and a thriving nightlife. Having fresh galleries like Art Central just adds to the excitement. We've had tourists from all over the world visiting the gallery in the last couple weeks since we opened, and it's great to show how much we have to offer in the area.

We are more than just the Big Banana! www.facebook.com/artcentralcoffsharbour ART CENTRAL Coffs Central coffs coast focus 13

focusinterview.

STUART COOK GLOBAL CEO - ZAMBRERO

BONVILLE BORN AND BRED, STUART COOK IS THE GLOBAL CEO OF ZAMBRERO, A QUICK SERVICE MEXICAN RESTAURANT FRANCHISE WITH STRONG HUMANITARIAN VALUES, WHERE EVERY BURRITO OR BOWL ENJOYED AT THE RESTAURANTS FEEDS SOMEONE LESS FORTUNATE THROUGH ZAMBRERO’S PLATE FOR PLATE CHARITY. STUART WAS APPOINTED CEO OF ZAMBRERO JUST BEFORE HIS 24TH BIRTHDAY IN 2009, QUALIFYING HIM AS ONE OF THE YOUNGEST FRANCHISE CEOS IN THE WORLD.

S

ince then Stuart has led the company from $1 million to now over $40 million in sales, now employing more than 900 people across the group with 45 stores.

What was it like growing up in Coffs Harbour? Tell us about your

childhood ...

I grew up in Bonville in a beautiful valley and looking back, probably one of the best places in the world to grow up. We lived by the rules of being home by dark and I was very very fortunate to have parents who were both teachers, so got to spend all of the holidays building cubby houses, playing wars and running around getting dirty. I went to Bonville Primary School in a year group that was only 14 kids, so we were a pretty tight bunch.

Mr Tristran was the teacher, whom I remember as the one who impacted me the most – and even though we needed a ‘time out’ from each other at one point in Year 6, he was someone who really pushed me and brought out the best in me.

I went to John Paul College, where for the first few years of school tried to hang out with the wrong crowd and suffered a bit but looking back, I think that I was trying too hard to be someone that I wasn’t, but really found myself after attending a Rotary Run leadership camp in Year 12. It was this camp that helped me to become more of a leader, where I was fortunate enough to get selected as 1 of 6 kids out of 300 to represent Australia, travelling for a month through England, South Africa and Botwana – a life changing time.

Did you always want a career in hospitality?

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coffs coast focus.

I didn’t think that I wanted to work in the hospitality CEO, I opened up BRW magazine’s fast franchise issue sector, but it was actually my mum that suggested it to and took out to coffee, lunch, drinks or dinner about 70 me, as I enjoy interacting with people and get a real kick CEOs and other executives of these chains and learnt out of making people smile. how they did it. In Australia the celebrities are mostly You collaborated with Dr Sam Prince to open your the musicians, the actors and the sports stars but to me, first store … what is your relationship with Sam, these people I was meeting were my superstars, and I where was your first store, and why did you treated them like that. Not once did I get a “no” from open Zambrero? them – although sometimes it took a month Founder Dr Prince had the business or so to get them to find time, they were idea while doing his medical degree incredibly open and honest, and I am in Melbourne. I came on board here today because of those people. when he had two locations What's the best thing that's I D EC ID ED TO open and was looking to happened to you along the WO R K W IT H open the third. I decided to way?

R ELY ZA M BR ERO PU work with Zambrero purely Apart from meeting my U SE AT FI R ST BE CA at first because of Dr Prince’s beautiful fiancée, meeting Dr ’S O F D R PR IN CE D N ideas, vision and thirst Prince on a bus on the way to A N ID EA S, V IS IO G IN O D for doing the impossible. the Taj Mahal and since that R TH IR ST FO .”

LE IB SS I am someone who loves time, every day has been an PO TH E IM challenges, and this was going amazing, challenging adventure. to be an exciting adventure.

The enormity of the role would Although, the greatest thing was seem overwhelming … how did that the brand Zambrero is something you find the transition from a guy in that I quickly began to call my own, and I his early twenties to a CEO? now love being with the company every single I LOVE challenges! If I am not a being day. challenged, I go looking for them, so in this role How did you find yourself in the position as the expanding a company around Australia and the rest of the youngest franchisee CEO in the world? world definitely ticks the box of being challenging! I think Excited, unsure of what to do at first, but I it is important to be open and culturally understanding think my biggest key success was not being afraid when opening up around the world, as everything is to say, “I don’t know”. When I first started as the different – sometimes only slightly – but you need to

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S ZA M BR ERO H A A N O A LS O W CI A LLY N U M BE R O F SO D AN R ES PO N SI BL E IA L R EU EN R EP EN TR TH E ER AWA R D S OV LLY FO R A CI PE Y EA R - ES RO U G H O U R WO R K TH E.” AT PL AT E FO R PL

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look deeper into everything overseas, as your experience in Australia helps but doesn’t always solve a challenge you are faced with. I am fortunate that my parents have always been very accepting of cultures and people, and I think that helps with business as well – especially when doing business overseas.

How many people do you employ nationally, and what is the company ethos of the franchisee group?

We employ over 900 people now in Australia through a mixture of casual, part-time and permanent staff. Our company ethos in the way we do business is to focus on making the customer’s day. After this, as we are a franchise chain, is to focus on making our franchisees as successful as possible, because through their success will be ours …

What do you do in your spare time? When you're not working, what are your hobbies?

I have some investments in other businesses as well – one of which is a company called ‘The Entourage’, a young entrepreneurship education business which is the largest of its kind in Australia and doing incredibly well under the leadership of the founder and my good friend, Jack Delosa. Outside of that I have just become a little addicted to Crossfit and play golf, sail and badminton – now that I am in Bankgkok.

You're getting married soon; where did you meet your fiancée? How does she feel about your crazy hours?

We have just got engaged in January this year – popped the question the weekend before I moved overseas. We are looking at getting married in spring next year to give

us plenty of time to organise things, but Samantha Cran is an extraordinary woman herself (not only for putting up with me); she was named this last year as one of the top 100 women of influence in Australia by The Australian Financial Review, Top 30 Women to Watch by Women’s Weekly and Madison Magazines through her success in her role as a CEO for the charity One Disease at a Time.

So really we are just as busy as each other; she will be moving over here in the near future to Thailand, where she will look to do something different and take a little time off after a crazy and successful past few years.

We met at a conference that I was speaking at when I saw a mate of mine in a group of people near a tall, beautiful girl – and we have spoken every day since.

You're currently living in Thailand … why?

Thailand, believe it or not, is one of the strongest food manufacturing hubs in the world, and part of our business model is to use a centralised kitchen and then distribute product to all of the locations.

Thailand is the perfect base for our Asian expansion and also is beneficial from a lower cost structure than places like Singapore and Hong Kong.

In 2011, 2012 and 2013, Zambrero was listed as the fasted growing food franchise of the year in BRW Magazine … what does that type of success feel like for a young man? What are your other accolades?

I feel successful in what we have achieved, but not because people tell us that we are. It is the times when myself and Dr Prince sit in a bar or a café somewhere and play ‘remember the time’ game and laugh at how far we have come. The past lists and awards we have won are an

honour to receive, though and go an incrediblly long way in exposing us to other potential customers, investors and franchise partners.

I was fortunate to pick up Australian Young Executive of the Year Award for 2013, which was an amazing moment for me. Zambrero has also won a number of socially responsible and entrepreneurial awards over the year – especially for our work through plate for plate.

Plate for plate is the initiative that Zambrero donates one meal to children in disaster zones around the world every time someone in our locations has a meal, so over the last 18 months we have fed almost 2 million meals; this is what success really is about – making a difference to those less fortunate.

How often do you return home to Coffs Harbour?

About 3 - 4 times a year, being Christmas, Easter and one or two other trips. It is the one place that I call home.

I get home and when my head hits the pillow, I usually am asleep for 10-12 hours – something that never happens anywhere else in the world.

What advice would you offer to other young people who had a dream?

Go after it and surround yourself with people you want to be like, are smarter than you and more successful, including your friends, as I have seen many people fail or give up because the people around them aren’t supporting and encouraging them to succeed.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and people are surprisingly willing to give up some time for young people with an idea.

Thanks Stuart. coffs coast focus 15

MICHAEL KING BELIEVES THAT IT'S YOUR RIGHT TO THRIVE! ALL SUFFERING ON ANY LEVEL, BE IT PHYSICAL, MENTAL OR EMOTIONAL IS 100% PREVENTABLE WITH THE RIGHT TOOLS AND UNDERSTANDING. LIFE LESSONS HE HAS LEARNT ALONG THE WAY AFTER MANY YEARS OF TRAVEL…

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• M i c h a e l

16 coffs coast focus.

K i n g •

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The workshops and programs are for anyone who feels like they aren’t quite getting the maximum potential out of their life, whether it be physically, mentally or spiritually.”

ntroduce yourself to our readers – where you are from and where life has taken you ...

I’m Michael King – 31 years old.

I was born and bred in Woolgoolga and lived in the area until I was 22, when I went travelling, and I’ve been coming and going as a bit of a nomad ever since. I have been back in Woolgoolga for just over a year now running Wholly Human, and I’m loving it!

How did your career in food begin?

I wasn’t well suited for school, so I optedout early and took on a chef apprenticeship and worked in, and ran, some really top restaurants and cafés around Coffs Coast.

What prompted you to travel to Europe and work on super yachts; what was that period of your life like?

It was looking as if a great career in the restaurant game was assured, but even though on the outside everything seemed perfect, there was something within me calling out – something I needed to discover. It was like on a deep level I was bored and longed for something more. So I packed up and got a one-way ticket to Europe.

Working on the super yachts was amazing and contrasting. I didn’t even plan it at all – I just went traveling with no schedule or agenda and found myself on a train heading from the west coast of France, where I had been living in a tent, surfing and just 'getting by', to the Mediterranean coast, where I was set to work for some of the world's richest folks. It was during this job that I suffered with some real sicknesses, from which I could find no relief, so I started experimenting with using food as medicine and educating myself about nutrition

and wellbeing. and the magic you found there …

But the job really was amazing, and the I always knew that there was much more money I saved enabled me to travel for to wellbeing than just food, so I was drawn another five or so years and go on lots of wild to India for its depth of culture and spiritualadventures, which changed my life! ity. I travelled with my best mate, and one day Upon returning to Australia, you bought a in Delhi we happily stumbled upon a Guru 4WD and travelled up north cooking named Ladu Baba, who travelled with us in Aboriginal communities … for two months sharing everything how has that experience that he could about meditashaped the way you tion, happiness and living feel about food? on purpose. We had I n he W The vision of travela great time singing questioned his kind d ling the circumferour way through the an ty si ro ne ge ested ence of Australia Himalayas on one bare nature, he sugg ng a lli was the thing that foot hike after another. that he was fulfi he as got me through the Baba was one of the bigger purpose ing had been dream ntly crazy year of work. most incredible men I te about me consis I ended up taking have ever met. He re.” et m e w before nearly two years to minded me of something make it all the way I had long forgotten – real around the country, during peace is not only possible, which I spent a lot of time it is actually inevitable; it’s who in nature alone getting to know mywe are. self in a whole new way. I surfed the best You've also trained in yoga … waves of my life, met many incredible I practise yoga regularly, and it’s a great teachers and also spent some quality time passion of mine, but I haven’t done any formal in remote indigenous communities. teacher training – yet!

One old uncle, a medicine man, took me So how did you marry what you've learnt under his wing and taught me the ways of his in to your career now? country and how to live off the land harmoniI studied with the Institute for Integrative ously and respectfully. When I questioned his Nutrition in New York, via correspondence and generosity and kind nature, he suggested that also became a certified NLP (neuro linguishe was fulfilling a bigger purpose, as he had tic programming) practitioner. And my NLP been dreaming about me consistently before teacher also became my personal mentor and we met. It was a pretty funny time; he taught friend, who really helped me with my goal of me how to cook stingray and mangrove snails, reaching more people and making a living. and I taught him how to cook plant-based What is Wholly Human? dishes like falafel and quinoa!

Wholly Human is a holistic health education Tell us about your journey through India business. Through programs, workshops and

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private coaching I aim to set people up with all of the necessary tools in order to experience peak health, clarity of mind and a deep connection with who they really are.

Who should attend your workshops and what do they entail?

Wholly Human workshops are designed to show people how to get the most out of life and achieve their personal goals. The workshop and programs entail cooking demonstrations, how to use food as medicine, meditation and mindfulness and how to live with purpose and integrity. The workshops and programs are for anyone who feels like they aren’t quite getting the maximum potential out of their life, whether it be physically, mentally or spiritually.

Why do you think you've dedicated your life to health and wellbeing?

Because it never feels like work, and this is exactly what I would be doing regardless of whether I got paid for it or not; it gets me really juiced up to see people overcome their limits and fulfil their dreams. And I also believe this information is something that everyone deserves to know.

On a perfect day we could find you ...?

Hanging at the beach all day, watching the sunrise, surfing my brains out with dolphins and laying in a hammock drinking coconuts.

And then in the afternoon running a workshop, cracking some of my really bad jokes and cooking a big feast for others to enjoy.

What's the best thing you've learnt along the way?

That true wellbeing, on all levels, is natural and it comes easy when we think, eat, speak and act in ways that feel most natural to us.

Thanks Michael. coffs coast focus 17

EDITOR'S PICKS

Gear up this month with our favourite te pieces, all sourced from our local retailers. If you have e a piece that you'd like featured, please email melly@focusmag.com.au .com.au

Cafe Lighting light pendant $350 Bunnings Warehouse

Orlando cushion 50x50 $39.95 Freedom

Dotts teapot $39.95 Freedom

Vanishing Elephant, selected stock from Uptown Local

Slap watch $24.95 Love and kisses Rio stool $200 Big Garden Furniture

The hand painted tin pot $299 VAST Interiors

18 coffs coast focus.

Stag head $49.95 Typo Art by Carmel Bebreuil POA Art Central Gallery, Coffs Central

Swivel stool $275 Cargo Lane

Taylor GS Mini Rosewood Electric $995.00 Park Beach Music and Hi Fi

Aged leather armchair $1695 Cargo Lane

coff coff s scoast coastfocus focus 19

focusinterview.

Scott Seccombe is the RSL Parade Marshal, a position he has held for the past 13 years ...

ow did you become involved with the ANZAC Day parades?

My role within the RSL is Parade Marshal. I have been in this position now for 13 years, starting as an assistant to the late Jeff Porter. After he took over as RSL President in 2003, I took the reins and have ran the ANZAC Day parades and other parades like Remembrance Day and VP Day. I have been involved with the RSL for 14 years, as I joined upon returning to Coffs after serving in the Defence Force.

How does the C.ex support the RSL? The C.ex offers great support to the RSL. A lot of people don’t realise that the RSL Sub Branch is a stand alone organisation that relies on its members and the public to raise funds.

The RSL does not have any poker machines or bars, as many people think. The support the C.ex gives the RSL is a large part of the reason our Sub Branch and parades like ANZAC Day are so successful – by supplying everything from chairs to venues for our monthly meeting, as well as office space that allows the RSL to manage and support our local ex-service community.

ANZAC Day begins with the Dawn Service, followed by the annual march. How have you seen the 'march' develop?

As Parade Marshal I have seen a number of changes over the years, from the thinning of the ranks of our WWI and II Veterans through to last year, when we saw about 60 younger ex-service men and women march, from 10 the previous years. That was great to see last year, as we had put in a lot of effort to get to the younger ex-service person, and there are a heap out there. We are very lucky here in Coffs, as 20 coffs coast focus.

our RSL encourages the younger ex-service men positive changes, seeing one of our younger and women to join and be a part of not only representatives being voted onto the RSL the marches, but also the RSL Sub Branch at our executive committee. This has been a huge monthly meetings. step forward for the RSL, seeing a sub group Younger ex-service men and women meet forming under the RSL banner – the Coffs weekly for coffee … how did this group Harbour RSL Sub Branch Younger Ex-service begin, and what type of support do you Men & Women. We now man the RSL offer one another? offices on Friday from 10am to 1pm and Yes, the coffee group has been a are available to assist and point anyone huge success and has seen both who comes up to see us in the RSL NSW and DVA take an right direction. As well as this, interest in how it has we have established this y ck lu progressed. The actual time as a drop in centre ry ve e We ar as s, ff idea has been adopted Co for people to call in in re he es the ag ur co in a number of centres and have a cuppa en SL R our ce men vi er -s ex r up and down the and a chat. This drop ge un yo in and coast, with great in centre facility will and women to jo ly the on success in reaching offer a number of be a part of not so the marches, but al our younger ex-service positive things, from at our RSL Sub Branch .” members. We came information about the gs monthly meetin up with the idea after RSL and the local DVA hearing how successful it representative to access to had been in garrison towns VVCS and other ex-service like Townsville, that has a large people; we will be able to direct number of both serving and nonpeople to these services and grow our serving defence personnel. The support that the younger ex-service network. group offers is many and varied – from helping What is the Military Kids Recognition people engage with VVCS for counselling or Medallion? pension officers to assist with claims, family This is a huge announcement for the Coffs support helping spouses and families tap into region. In the past years, a lady in Queensland the many support networks available, through introduced a recognition medallion for kids to just a great bunch of people having a chat whose parents had served this country. This and a laugh. We meet at C.ex in the vista initiative has been seized on by our local RSL lounge outdoor area at 10am on Wednesdays. and will see 10 - 12 children of ex-service The group is open to all service and ex-service personnel presented with these medallions. The people, as well as their partners and family. ages range from 3 to 19; these young people A subsection of the RSL is a ‘drop in centre’. will be the launch of the lead up to 2015 What support services for ex-service men ANZAC services that will see all children of all and women does this provide? ex-service personnel that are registered over the The RSL has recently had some major coming months presented with a medallion 3

“

weeks out from ANZAC Day 2015, so they can join in the march with their ex-service family member. These medallions will be purchased and supplied by the RSL Sub Branch.

On ANZAC Day, who can march?

This year sees another great initiative being adopted by the RSL Sub Branch and will see the younger ex-service men and women lead the march. This will be a great day for all those who have never marched to join in and be recognised for the service that they have provided to this great nation. As well, our usual groups of ex-service and community organisations will march, and all the schools that participate will also be in attendance.

Final say … Over the past 2 years I have been lucky enough to present and lecture for a number of organisations about the younger ex-service men and women, and we are slowly seeing the change. That change is that these days and organisations are for all ex-service people to join in and be a part of. The idea that you have had to serve overseas is old style thinking and does not fit with what our Defence Force does in this day and age. Our Defence Force not only deploys to combat, but also to aid our and other civil communities, and the reality is that any person who has worn a uniform has the right to be recognised for the service to their country.

So, if you or your dad, mum, son or daughter has ever served this great nation by way of fulltime and or part- time service, we want them to march.

the plug!

5.20am Dawn Service commences at the Cenotaph 6.00am ANZAC Day breakfast – Auditorium 9.30am Cenotaph Service commences

coffs coast focus 21

focuseditorial.

with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s

THE COFFS HARBOUR WH

WOMENS

AT ’ S I N

HEALTH CLINIC

Pumpkin Ahh, the nights are growing chilly, the mornings that little crisp and we start wanting to devour things with more comfort in their nature than a crisp salad provides. It must be time for the pumpkin to come into season.

Pumpkins in their many varieties are a fantastic way to instantly 'comfort-ise' (that's a word now) food. Humble mash potato, with pumpkin through it, becomes a new hero on the plate.

Roasts without their roast pumpkin just aren't the family affair they should be. But a pumpkin's versatility also extends into the baking world, with pumpkin scones, or creamy pumpkin pie.

The pinnacle though, the guaranteed king in the pumpkin hierarchy, is the most humble of them all. Pumpkin soup.

And the easiest way to make it is so: place your pumpkin whole on a baking tray and cover it with foil, and roast it at 140 degrees celsius for the day; put it in and forget about it. Then half an hour before you want to serve it, pull it out, and carefully scoop the now caramel and tender flesh from inside, add cream, whisk and re-heat. Season, maybe a dollop of sour cream and some crispy bacon. Excuse me, I need to go make some ...

To continue reading about unique ingredients, including a few useful tips and recipes, visit my blog on the Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar website: www.zuluscoffs.com

The Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre has an action packed Term 2 ahead, with various programs to support you in taking care of your health and wellbeing.

Pearls of the Harbour – a fun evening with health professionals sharing their tips about menopause, pelvic floor, breast health, mental health and sex. Tickets available from the Happy Frog and the Women’s Health Centre.

Pain and Fatigue Support Groups – Starting Tuesday 29 April, Pain Support Group from 11am - 1pm, Fatigue Support Group from 1.30 - 3.30pm. Share tips and techniques while learning new strategies, facilitated for men and women.

Quest for Life Foundation Self – Care Matters Workshop – Wednesday 14 May, 9.30 - 3.30pm.

Prioritise your own self care, create vibrant peace in your life, support your health and wellbeing, and experience deep relaxation.

Mindfulness 8 week course x 2 – Starting 8 May, Thursday evenings and 9 May, Friday mornings. Effective in reducing stress, building resilience, improving relationships, reducing risk

of depression. Open to men and women.

HEAL – Healthy Eating Active Living Program, Wednesday 30 April, 5.30 - 7.30pm for 8 weeks with a Dietitian and an Exercise Physiologist.

Learn about healthy eating and engage in regular exercise to reduce weight and remain healthy. Open to men and women.

Two Women’s Circles – Weekly on Thursdays, 10am - 12pm and 1 - 3pm, connection through story sharing and listening. Meet new people, make friends, share challenges and wins.

Mental Health First Aid – 19 and 20 May, 9am - 3.30pm. Learn how to support others experiencing mental health challenges or crisis.

Stepping On – Falls Prevention Program for men and women over 65 living in the community. Programs starting regularly in your local area.

Go4Fun – New programs starting for 7 - 13 year olds above a healthy weight range and their families.

Costs apply to some courses – please call Karen or Becky on (02) 6652 8111 for more information or to register.

RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution

Everyone has the right to quality care and support services. That’s why we have tailored our services to care and support you.

Please contact us for further information.

(02) 6650 2200 - coffsharbour@rfbi.com.au - www.rfbi.com.au 22 coffs coast focus.

Masonic Villages: It’s how to live...

We will not sell you a product that does not suit your needs!

Klaustel Phones & Data It appears that there are many sales people out and about each day, stating that many current systems are not compatible with the NBN. This has resulted in a number of businesses being convinced into upgrading their current system to either a Hosted system or an expensive new telephone system unnecessarily.

Custom-designed websites If you're considering a website template, consider these factors first: Functionality: A templated website can only do so much; at some point in the future you may come unstuck when you need to add more content or functionality to your website.

Design: A template can start off looking good, but without the knowhow it can quickly become a mess of images and poorly formatted content, and you are left with no support to resolve it.

Q. Do I need to purchase a new phone system to work on the NBN?

Search Engine Optimisation: Templated websites are often built quickly and cheaply and do not perform well in Google searches, and leave little room for improvement.

A. NO, for under $100 you can purchase an ATA box to convert your new digital lines back to analog for your existing phone system. Klaustel can provide this service if required.

Usability: Without proper optimization, your website can be slow to load and frustrating for your clients to use. In addition, without a Content Management System, updating your website can be a slow and tedious process.

Q. Should I get a second opinion before I commit to any contract?

A. YES, with Klaustel the installers are also the sales team, and we do not work on commissions.

We will not sell you a product or service that does not suit your needs.

Extra knowledge required: Template sites may look like a breeze to customise, but once you pay and download a template, you may find you need additional programs to edit the template and you lack the knowledge required to get your website live and linked with your domain.

First impressions count: Your website will often be the first impression of your business. A custom designed website can help reinforce your brand values and make that first impression a positive one. We offer a FREE 30 minute website consultation to help ensure you get a great website. Call Giant Media on 6651 5322 or visit www.giantmedia.com.au

coffs coast focus 23

Coffs Coast Coffs

Fillet Mignon with a red wine sauce from The Pier Hotel.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 24 coffs coast focus.

eat.

Braised lamb tacos.

Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar

Lime Mexican Lime Mexican Tapas Restaurant and Bar is the newest and most unique restaurant on the Coffs Harbour Jetty Strip.

Flown all the way from Alaska after being harvested in one of the most deadliest working environments known to man ...The world’s greatest eating crab has made a debut on the Zulu's menu.

Alaska King Crab when paired with the aromatic clarified butter base that all of our African sauces are made on, becomes an experience to be reckoned with! If you have never tried it before ... do it!

With our energetic staff, the fun and vibrant atmosphere lends itself to a menu that has been designed to share across multiple courses.

Come and check out Lime today to experience our fresh take on modern and street style Mexican food, which is complemented by a great selection of wine, Mexican cervezas, margaritas, cocktails, tequila and mezcal.

Open for dinner 7 nights from 5pm 'til late.

Owners Jessica & Trent.

Head Chef Joel McCulla.

27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway) t 6652 1588 w www.zuluscoffs.com

366 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour, Jetty Strip t 0421 573 570 e info@limemexican.com.au

open: Breakfast: Monday – Friday, 7am – 9am.

Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – late.

open: 7 nights from 5pm 'til late.

Bookings recommended.

Beachstone Café Under new management!

Come and enjoy our great coffee and fantastic food in a new friendly and relaxed environment. We have heaps of great things for the kids on our new menu, crafted by our new chef, Craige Mills, with creative twists on classic café food, using fresh, locally sourced produce. Take the chance to sit down, relax and treat yourself while you watch the kids play in the park at our doorstep.

We can also organise catering for your function or birthday, and Beachstone is the perfect place for a beach wedding on the beautiful North Sapphire Beach; it's just a short walk to your reception at Beachstone, where we will take care of all your catering needs to make it a night you will never forget.

The Hoey Moey Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Come and enjoy our newly renovated hotel with spacious open Beer Garden, open plan Bar, Bistro, Drive Thru Bottle Shop, and TAB facilities.

Whether you choose one of our famous $9.50 feeds, something off our fantastic blackboard specials or straight from our newly revamped menu, there is something here to satisfy everyone.

Owner Aileen Chen.

2 Beach Way, North Sapphire t 6653 6188 open: Tue - Thur: 9 - 4.

Fri - Sun: 8 - 4.

Come in for our famous Sunday Sessions, with LIVE entertainment from 4pm.

Head Chef David McLellan.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour t 6652 3833 open: 7 days. Mon - Thurs and Sun: 12pm - 2.30pm; 5.30 8.30pm. Fri and Sat: 12pm - 2.30pm; 5.30 - 8.30pm. coffs coast focus 25

eat.

Brekky Pizza, spicy chorizo, tomato chutney, baby spinach, poached eggs, basil yoghurt.

Finz on The Beach Finz on the Beach is open for à la carte dining 7 days a week.

The restaurant welcomes a new season with an exciting, colourful and adventurous menu, Executive Chef, Nathan Corcoran will release the new menu just in time for autumn.

One of the new main dishes that will feature on the menu, is a delicious pan seared scallops with pork crackle on sweet corn puree topped with a lemongrass and caviar confetti.

Contact (02) 6652 7555 to make your booking or book online at www.dimmi.com. au

Saltwater Café Restaurant March starts our new Autumn Menu Situated at beautiful Emerald Beach, just 15 minutes north of Coffs Harbour, Saltwater Café Restaurant has something for all food lovers.

Our combinations of fresh seasonal food & Mediterranean flavours, tantalize the taste buds as you sit back, relax & take in the great ocean views.

Whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner you enjoy we also cater for functions for up to 65 people. You can book for a small gathering or the complete Restaurant.

Fully licensed, we serve our local Bellingen Beer on tap, plus have a great selection of boutique wines from our Australian wine regions.

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach t 6656 1888 w www.saltwateronthebeach.com open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, Wednesday to Saturday. Sunday breakfast, lunch and live music from 3pm.

Head Chef Adam Gallo.

Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 2400 w www.aanuka.com.au

REVIEWED BY

Guide

open: from 6pm, 7 days a week.

“Kids Make Your Own Pizza” and Calamari & Chips

Plantation Hotel The Plantation Hotel is great fun for the whole family, with a yummy selection of kid’s meals to satisfy the fussiest eaters.

The signature dish they come back for time after time is the Make your Own Pizza. It's fun, it’s creative and they eat the lot.

Tuesday night is “Family Tuesday” with Miss Sprinkles the Kids Entertainer. She has an exciting range of craft activities every week but Miss Sprinkle’s trademark and kids favourite, is her Cupcake decorating.

All the Kid’s meals come with a piece of seasonal fresh fruit and a Peters ice cream cup. You will find Miss Sprinkles in the Kid’s room every Tuesday night from 6pm to 9pm.

Horizons Restaurant & Bar It’s Back for the school holidays — The Brasserie!

11.30am - 9pm Everyday.

Dining is easy for families with the new extensive blackboard brassiere menu, Daily specials available using the region’s fresh produce and seafood. Dine alfresco on the terrace overlooking the pool and lagoon Happy Hour daily from 5pm - 6pm.

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Guide

Try Our Autumn Dinner Menu before the school holidays.

Horizons Restaurant and Bar’s menu takes full advantage of the region's freshest produce and seafood. Be tempted with the Seared scallops on sautéed pancetta, chestnuts and chokos with pear glaze or Roasted lamb loin on fresh linguini tossed with zucchini, snowpeas, goat cheese, preserved lemon, mint and chilli infused oil. Remember to leave room for dessert with the decedent Chocolate trifle, yum!

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour t 6651 0510 open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

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Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

AHA FINALIST “Best Family Friendly Pub”

Head Chef Todd Towler.

88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour. t 6652 3855 w www.plantationhotel.com.au open 7 days, Sun - Thu: lunch noon to 2.30pm.

Dinner: 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Fri & Sat: all day dining.

eat.

The Pier Hotel

Truffled scrambled eggs, sauteed local mushrooms on sour dough.

Depot Café The Depot licensed café is all about serving exceptional food with service to match!

Waves Bistro offers incredible value for money, with a great variety of mouth watering dishes available.

Whether you are after a $10 steak for lunch or some fresh local seafood from our extensive dinner menu, there is something for everyone at the Pier Hotel.

Come in a talk to Kieran or Dave today about planning your next function.

We offer locally roasted coffee made by passionately trained baristas; taste the difference and find out why the Depot is loved for their great espresso. Served with our truffled scrambled eggs, sautéed local mushrooms on sour dough – an unrivalled match!

Indulge yourself with our ‘After 3pm Deal’ of a house made pizza, house chardy or red or a Coopers beer for only $16.50. Enjoy an unforgettable pizza made to order from local produce.

Head Chef Dave Newick.

Head Chef: Rhys Graham

Coffs Central, Upstairs, level 2 , food court – Depot Cafe t 6651 1812

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel 6652 2110 bistro 6651 8222

open: 7.30am – 5pm Mon – Fri (Thurs 6.30pm), 8.30am – 4pm Saturday, 8.30am – 2pm Sunday.

Open: lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm, dinner 5.30pm 8.30pm, 7 days a week.

Café TREEO Sawtell

Flooded Gums Restaurant

As the weather cools down, TREEO heats things up with its delicious autumn creations! On the all day breakfast menu you'll find a range of new dishes such as the delectable red velvet pancakes with cream cheese icing or for a healthier option, try the freshly baked maple granola with chai infused milk, honey yoghurt and seasonal fruit.

Head Chef of Flooded Gums Michael Urquhart has designed a menu that is based on classical techniques combined with current food trends to present dishes keeping in the theme that saw No. 2 Oak Street reach 2 Chef’s Hat status.

Then for lunch you can't go past TREEO's twist on fish and chips with tempura Atlantic salmon served with parmesan and lemon polenta chips, saffron rouille and a fennel, apple and caper salad - you haven't lived until you've tried this dish!

Breakfast and lunch are served all day. To view the full menu, visit cafetreeo.com, or follow them on Facebook for the latest updates.

18 First Ave, Sawtell t 6653 1099 fb fb.com/ CafeTreeo open: 7 days from 7am for breakfast and lunch.

Just 10 mins south of the Coffs CBD, the Flooded Gums is a Winner of 1 ‘Chef’s Hat’ in the 2013 and 2014 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guides & 2 ‘Goblets’ in the 2012 & 2013 Fine Wine Partners Wine List of the Year Awards, offering unmatched combination of setting, atmosphere, food and wine.

Owner/Chef Duncan Elliot.

Out team led by Michael Urquhart and Darren Ryan have created modern menus for your enjoyment across breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Come and experience Michael Urquhart’s ’Hatted’ food at beautiful Bonville.

North Bonville Road, Bonville t 6653 4002 w www.bonvillegolf.com.au open: 7 days; bookings essential for breakfast, lunch and dinner. coffs coast focus

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eat.

Enjoy the best ocean views on the coast in a friendly and fresh dining experience.

Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill

Pasfields Restaurant Bar Deck

APRIL SUPER MEAL DEALS! $7.50 week day lunch – two specials to choose from - delicious steak or seafood special between 11.30-2.30pm. Plus for just $2.50 extra get a middy of beer, wine or softdrink.

Kids Eat Free Monday night – simply buy one adults main meal and receive one kids meal absolutely free!

Tuesday Schnitzel night – choice of four tasty toppings –parmie, Hawaiian, outback or gravy, plus chips and salad for $12.90 Wednesday Ribs night – juicy sticky ribs with chips and salad $14.90 Thursday Surf n’ Turf night – Steak topped with prawns, plus chips and salad $14.90

Pasfields provides a stunning new venue for all special occasions, with various options for smaller private areas or the fantastic new panoramic covered deck. But you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy the setting; pop in for happy hour from 4.30pm - 6pm daily and/or a light bar meal or pizza or of course, a beautiful fine dining experience. If you have a club that meet regularly, send us an email or call and we can tailor make packages for your budget. We are open anytime for bookings of 10 or more with a week's notice.

Try one of our popular high teas for baby showers, catch ups or hens' days. Now serving our new winter menu, including goat curry, buffalo pie, crocodile, rhubarb and ricotta bread and butter pudding and many other traditional and different mouth watering treats.

Head Chef Scott Patten.

Head Chef David Ricketts.

1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour t 6652 1534 w www.coffsfishos.com.au

675 Pacific Highway, Korora t 6653 7710 w www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

open: 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11.30am and 5.30pm and breakfast Wednesday and Sunday from 7.30am.

Over 40 different types of sushi!

Hickory Smoked Lamb Rump.

Hungry Bears

Macauleys Restaurant

SUSHI / BENTO / BIBIMBAB Are you heading to the movies and looking for an amazing cultural dining experience that will keep you coming back for more?

Look no further. Hungry Bears is a brand new Japanese and Korean restaurant next to Coffs cinema.

If you love sushi, you can't go past Hungry Bear. With more than 40 kinds of sushi, customers can choose a their favorite or can make a plate with a whole variety of sushi.

Available all menu take away / B.Y.O

Owners Kevin and Hanna.

3 Bray Street, Coffs Harbour t 0452 506 745 fb facebook.com/hungrybears4u open: Tuesday-Sunday - Lunch 11:30-3:00.

Dinner from 5pm ~ last order 8pm

28 coffs coast focus.

open: Lunch Fri – Sun or any other times for bookings of >10 made in advance. Dinner nightly from 5pm, à la carte, bar menu or takeaway.

Renowned for bringing class to coastal dining, Macauleys Restaurant is the PERFECT venue for a romantic dinner, catch up with friends or just a spontaneous bite to eat.

Expect to find the freshest local produce and ingredients on our menu – we LOVE to capitalise on the amazing seasonal fruit and vegetables and the sublime variety of fresh seafood available in our region and build our menu around the seasons.

We recommend you try our new Hickory Smoked Lamb Rump on a bed of truffled mash potatoes with a medley of mushrooms topped with Port jus – it's sensational!

Head Chef Craig Clarke.

99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour t 6652 5970 w www.macauleys.com.au open: Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm.

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

AILEEN

BEACHSTONE CAFE

Michelle + Ricky Lee

WHOLLY COW hat's on the menu at Wholly Cow? Well, of course we have a great selection of burgers!

We have over 20 different burgers to choose from and we also offer breakfast all day – and I mean all day, from the minute we open, until we close. You can have anything from standard bacon and eggs to something lighter such as toast or if you like, you can try our ever popular banana omelette. Also, if you are after something other than burgers we have a great selection of salads, sandwiches and wraps.

Wholly Cow has turned burgers from staple fast-food to an artisan's masterpiece … why hamburgers?

Our burgers are not just a burger as traditionally known; they really are a meal in a bun. Our aim is to serve a great healthy meal option that really does offer every nutritional requirement in a wholesome meal with a moderate portion of protein, ample vegetables and/or salad served in an organic sourdough bun. We really do want to serve burgers that are healthy and good for you! 'Burgers how they should taste.'

Word on the street is that Wholly Cow have the best burgers on the Mid North Coast … what's your secret?

I am not sure if it’s a secret, but our philosophy is to only serve all our meal options with the finest fresh produce from local suppliers and producers; we also make absolutely everything in-house, which includes

all of our sauces, all of our patties, and we even cook our own fresh beetroot and core our own pineapples. Our motto is that 'nothing is served out of a can'. Everything is hand prepared – that really is our promise!

What are the key factors of a great burger?

Great fresh ingredients … that’s it!

Burgers are best served with?

One of our great organic Fairtrade coffees locally roasted by Amelia Franklin or on a hot day, one of our wonderful milkshakes!

What time of day can one pop in to Wholly Cow and grab a burger?

Every day from 7am until we close at 5pm and Sunday, when we close at 3pm. We really do mean anytime – if we are open, our kitchen is open.

Brand new owners at B eachstone C afé ... ll the way from China, when and why did you decide to move to Coffs Harbour?

I moved all the way from China to Coffs Harbour for uni study at the end of 2008. Also, I am from a tropical island located in southern China called Hainan, so I am a big fan of coastal cities.

Why did you decide to become an Australian and not simply go home after your studies?

I love travelling and I have been to almost all the cities in Australia. People I have met in every city are always nice and friendly to me.

The multiculturalism is another aspect which attracted me to stay.

When did you take over Beachstone?

I took Beachstone Café over at the end of 2013, right before Christmas.

What changes have you made to the restaurant? Seasonal menus and an entire new kids' menu are available at Beachstone now.

Also, I invited Mr Smiley to come to our café every Tuesday and most weekends to play with the kids and perform. We have Saturday Sesh on the deck with live entertainment as well. Buffet dinner night once a month is really popular, and we had our first buffet dinner night booked out in 4 days. We are planning on a set dinner menu, and we are going to open a few nights a week soon.

Has the menu changed?

We designed an entire new seasonal menu and kids' menu. Also, breakfast and lunch specials are available every day.

Do you do weddings?

Luckily, our café is located right next to the beach, so we can do all kind of weddings and

A

functions. We can do kids' parties as well. All sorts of weddings and function packages are available at Beachstone; we can even decorate the venue for you. All you need to do is let us take care of everything, relax, and enjoy your special day.

What steps are you taking to make Beachstone family friendly?

First of all, we designed a new kids' menu and we provide kids' drinks, fresh juice and so on.

Secondly, we are spreading the word, making sure everyone knows that Beachstone is under new management and we welcome mums and kids. Thirdly, we organise all sorts of kids' activities and functions every week.

How important is a seasonal menu to Beachstone? A seasonal menu is really important to attract all our regulars and new customers. Also, it's a good way to make sure we use all the produce seasonally and locally. We aim to provide our customers the best quality produce in every season.

Do you buy produce locally? At Beachstone we pride ourselves on using only the freshest and best quality produce, locally sourced and organic if possible. Our eggs are free range, organic and from a local producer. The sourdough bread and fruit loaf we use are organic. Our delicious cakes, muffins and biscuits are made right here. We buy our fish straight off the trawler. All our sauces, relishes, dips, jams and dressings are made on the premises, often using our own homegrown herbs.

2 Beach Way, North Sapphire.

6653 6188.

Open: Tue - Thur, 9am - 4pm; Fri - Sat, 8am - 4pm. coffs coast focus 29

Photography credit: Sinclair Black, Coastal Media

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White M A X

H U T C H I N S O N

Petition White Salt to stay. The ever-growing legions of White Salt converts may need to work hard to keep their favourite fish and chips shop in town.

F

ans of White Salt resemble religious converts: eagerly telling strangers of the wondrous fish, chips and salad, as they tuck into their treasure on the sand dunes of Woolgoolga Beach.

Woolgoolga’s funkiest seafood eatery draws devotees from far and wide. Nothing is frozen – chips are hand-cut every day, as are calamari rings. Everything is fresh – the oil, the handmade tartare and wasabi-mayo sauces and delectable salads topped with sweet potato crispy curls.

Many may be surprised the owners of White Salt need persuading to stay. “Some people come every day – some for both lunch and dinner,” White Salt co-owner Roberta Hutchinson said with obvious pride. “Repeat holiday customers always tell us they remember how nice the food is here.”

The delightful and lovely Roberta runs frontof-shop under the watchful eye of White Salt’s patron English Staffy, Riley, on duty outside the entrance. “I can feel the energy the kitchen team put into the food and I can see the customers giving it back in appreciation,” she said.

Impressing many customers is the speed of service. Nothing is frozen – scallops, calamari, prawns, fish – everything is fresh from the trawlers, and hand-cut Dorrigo potato chips are part-cooked every morning. As nothing needs defrosting, fresh oil is kept at an optimum heat for the fastest and tastiest results.

However, the worry for customers is Wool30 coffs coast focus.

goolga’s White Salt is the fourth fish and chip Woolgoolga, but it wasn’t only the convenience eatery surfer and ski devotee Max Hutchinson which sealed the deal. “I sat down with them has opened. “I originally opened Fishmongers in and they looked at my loans and said, 'We can Byron Bay, started a White Salt on Phillip Island do better than that’. Now I’m a few hundred and then another in Bright in the Victorian dollars a month better off.” When the chance Alps,” Max said. “There’s not a great deal of came to buy their dream property at Emerald money in food – not anymore. What Beach, Max and Roberta were in I do is I negotiate a long lease, Noosa and their bookkeeper was run it as hard as I can to build overseas, but bcu came to the business up, and then I the rescue. “Negotiating sell up and move on,” he a home loan at short I can feel the said. Cast your eye on notice was all done over e energy th to in customer numbers at t the phone with bcu, pu kitchen team n ca I White Salt on any sunny and we’d have had no d an the food, s er om Woolgoolga weekend, chance with any of the st cu e see th in ck ba and you will see he has other lenders.” it ng givi the recipe for fish and Life running a fish appreciation. ” chips you remember long and chip shop is not all after you have eaten. work. After a morning Wanderlust, mixed with prepping salads, potatoes a passion for surfing and skiing and filleting fish, the team serve is part of Max’s character, although lunch until 2pm, giving Max time to customers in the tight-knit communities of indulge his love of surfing before returnBright and Phillip Island wish he’d stayed ing for the evening trade. Their most recent to cook more fish. The good news is one change has been installing a welcome coffee organisation is doing everything possible to machine. Coffee, brewed with BunCoffee beans persuade him to stay in town. “We love bcu. I’m from his former home of Byron Bay, has proved lucky; I’ve got them right next door. We’re just a popular, as has the new lunch wraps of fish, cash-based business. Over summer we don’t do calamari and salad.

EFTPOS, because we’re just too busy. I think they Proof of White Salt’s loyal fan base is the sheer installed the second ATM to keep up with us,” volume of food prepared. In summer, the team Max said. hand-cut up to 1.5 tonne of Dorrigo potatoes a They moved their business banking and home week and keep selling until they sell out of chips. loans across to bcu, not long after opening in It’s best to arrive early on busy trading days (like

“

Easter) as once they have sold all the chips they can cut in a day, it’s time to close the doors and go home, as no-one wants fish without chips.

The menu has something to tempt the most discerning foodie. Choice fish options include seasonal offerings such as tuna, swordfish, Mahi Mahi, marlin, Barramundi and Blue Eyed Cod, all sourced from the boats of Upscale Seafoods.

Seafood is cooked either grilled or in a light riceflour tempura batter in high quality 100% nongenetically modified canola oil, which is changed daily. Max and chef Kevin Noonan cook everything fresh to order. Vegetarians can delight in tempura vegetables, BBQ corn, potato and sweet potato cakes, as well as grilled pumpkin crest, if they feel like a hot alternative to the stunning salads, prepared by chef Varnie McGuinness.

Salads are garden variety, Greek, Calamari, King Prawn, Roe-on Scallop, served with accompaniments like pink pickled ginger, BBQ corn and sweet potato crisps.

Customers keen for Max and Roberta to stay and enjoy the Northern Beaches surfing lifestyle, need to take a leaf out of the bcu playbook and impress them. “At the end of the day, bcu are just really good people – it’s not like going to a bank. They’ve got a good team, they look after all the locals – they’re top shelf, I reckon.”

The question is how do we persuade Max and Roberta to stay? Should we mount a petition?

Tell them we love them? It’s up to you.

Whitesalt Gourmet Fish and Chippery, 70 Beach St, Woolgoolga.

6654 8832

Go your own way “ Don’t put your dreams on “

hold. bcu supported me every step of the way and now my dream is a reality.

Owner, Woodseys Wheels, Scott Bocking bcu happy customer

Make it happen, with bcu Visit www.bcu.com.au

bcu Classic Visa credit card.

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¬ Low $40 annual fee ¬ Up to 55 days interest free on purchases Apply online today at: bcu.com.au/creditcards Eligibility criteria, fees, charges, terms and conditions apply. Banking products issued by Bananacoast Community Credit Union Ltd ABN 50 087 649 750 AFSL 241077 Australian Credit Licence Number 241077. #All interest rates are annual percentage rates (APR) and variable rates are subject to change. Visit www.bcu.com.au for details. coffs coast focus 31

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R NE COR

bec Gaile lov es shoes Bec Gaile, e who is famously known as Bec Loveshoes, moved to Coffs Harbour ten years ago with the intention of 'giving it a go' for twelve months. When Bec isn't busy getting her hands dirty in her hubby's business, she is building her collection of all things retro and adding to her amazing shoe collection!

hat do you collect?

I have a deep passion for vintage and retro items. The vintage items remind me of my grandma's house, and the retro items remind me of my childhood. Things were built differently back then; they weren’t built to be tossed away when we were finished with them. And obviously I have a passion for shoes. I love anything shoe related ... shoe telephone, shoe chair, shoe anything.

I have a motto: ‘shoes always fit me, even on my fat days’. It is so true! As we all get older, the best thing is that the shoe size will remain the same.

When did you first realise you had a passion for collecting?

I can’t recall exactly when my passion with shoes began – and I certainly cannot foresee when it will end. To choose the perfect outfit, one must start with the shoes.

I purchase a lot of my shoes from as many local shops as I can, because I love keeping it local. But sometimes, you just happen to find that perfect pair, late at night, whilst shopping on the internet.

Exercise is a big part of my life, so I don’t think it’s odd that I have over 50 pairs of runners, although my husband seems to ‘shake his head’ whenever a new pair arrives!

32 coffs coast focus.

I lost count at about 300 pairs and to be rite, but I do still use an original glomesh gold honest, I’m not sure I want to know how many purse. My grandma had one, and my mother I now have. I have an extremely awesome had one. The previous owner of the current one husband who has converted two of the rooms I am using has written her name and address inin our house into walk in wardrobes. I just side it, with the date 1977. And almost adore fashion. I do a sewing course everyone comments when they every week at Frolic in Fabric. I see it. I’d like to have a lot am learning about fabrics and more spare time to hunt g bi a patterns, basically bringing and seek for more items, is se ci Exer e, lif y m in a pattern and sewing the but my husband often of rt pa odd s it’ k in th item of my choice. I resays that there is a fine t n’ do so I 50 pairs er ov ve cently created the slip for line between collectha I at th ough my own wedding dress. ing and hoarding. He of runners, alth s em my husband se What do you collect? has convinced himself ad’ to ‘shake his he My collection of vintage that I am right on that pair whenever a new and retro items spans line! I beg to differ. arrives!” from many years of searchI often laugh at the ing. I couldn’t even begin to items we grew up with guess how many garage sales and and the reaction of small auctions I have attended. A normal children. I remember my nieces Saturday used to consist of getting to houses totally consumed by a ‘typewriter’ – at 5am to bag a bargain, mid-morning sausomething they had never seen and were sage at Bunnings to fuel the stomach, and out so interested in what it was used for! I love again searching for the rest of the morning. We to sit back and watch people’s reactions when have lived all over Australia, and I have carted a they enter our house for the first time. I think so lot of items a long way! Our house is filled with many of the items hold a special memory for so various items and memorabilia. I also have a many people. I hear a lot of, "My nanna used to couple of shipping containers full as well. Usually have one of these" and so on. We have friends every six months I will rotate and change all the who bring their children around and they are memorabilia over. constantly telling their children, "Don’t touch the Do you have a favourite item? memorabilia", but I don’t worry about it; some It would be too hard to select just one favouof the items are over 50 years old and they were

“

built to last. If they were going to break, they would have broken by now. So, I encourage the children to pick the items up and play with them and ask questions. And you can only imagine how hilarious the questions are.

We're all wondering what shoes you chose for your wedding …

Well, we eloped to Las Vegas on New Year's Eve just gone. I found the shoes about three years ago and had kept them under wraps all that time: crystal white pumps with a six inch heel. So with the shoes and the dress packed, we were married by a midget Elvis impersonator celebrant!

Do you hope to exhibit one day?

One day (in the far distant future) I envision that I will open up a small museum so I can exhibit all of my collection ... sit back with a cup of tea chatting to the visitors who have the same interest as me. Of course, this may not happen until much later on in life. But no matter what age I am – I guarantee I will be wearing a fabulous pair of heels!

Thanks Bec.

are you a collector?

We want to know about you! Let us know what you collect, and you might just be our next Collectors Corner guest! e. melly@focusmag.com.au ph. (02) 6650 9343

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NOW OPEN COFFS CENTRAL Embrace your style with Phyllis & Mimosa fashion, shoes and accessories.

Coffs Central Shopping Centre, Harbour Drive coffs@mimosa.com.au | 02 6651 5979 | www.phyllisandmimosa.com | facebook.com/phyllisandmimosa coffs coast focus 33

focusinterview.

Determination, optimism and hope are the words Angie O’Reilly uses when she talks of her journey through breast cancer. But for Angie, her cloud did have a silver lining and has led her to a rewarding and challenging role working with others who have travelled a similar path.

ongratulations on your recent appointment as a National Representative for the International Breast Cancer Paddlers Commission. Tell us about your new role …

Thanks Fran. The aim of the IBCPC is to encourage a healthy lifestyle amongst those diagnosed with breast cancer by establishing and supporting breast cancer dragon boat teams.

There are three other National Representatives like me in Australia. My role is to maintain contact with 11 groups throughout Victoria and Tasmania and to keep them informed on what’s happening internationally, share news and information from my Australian groups with IBCPC and to promote its aims and objectives. I will be regularly involved with the IBCPC Steering Committee and other National Representatives from Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, the UK and the USA. You’re a dragon boat paddler – what led you to the sport?

In a word – breast cancer. I was diagnosed in 2002 and told the lump had probably been there for many years – I can’t stress enough the importance of checking your boobies regularly; early detection is the key to long term survival.

From diagnosis to end of treatment was nearly 12 months – two lots of surgery, seven weeks of radiotherapy in Sydney and seven months of chemo. I was told I had a 65% chance of not making five years.

I attended a Breast Cancer Network Australia Conference in Melbourne in 2004 with my breast care nurse, Lee Millard-Newton, where we met Michelle Hanton, founder of Dragons Abreast Australia. In March 2005 a group of local survivors formed the Coffs Coast Dragon Boat Club (CCDBC). I was a founding committee member, and in November 2007 I was founding co-ordinator for Dragons Abreast Coffs Coast. I am still actively involved with both groups.

Why does the sport attract so many breast cancer survivors?

A long term myth existed that strenuous exer34 coffs coast focus.

Photos Bruce Thomas/ideal imaging.

Feature interview with Fran Stephenson

ANGI E O’RE ILLY cise, particularly upper body, was not advisable after crews from Camden Haven to Mt Warnpost breast cancer diagnosis. This was dispelled ing. I’ve held a number of positions, including in 1996 by Professor Don McKenzie of the Allan most recently Festival Project Manager for DAA’s McGavin Institute of Sports Medicine in Vancouannual corporate, hospital and community event ver. If fact, his study revealed that there were no held each October at Darling Harbour. I’ve acadverse effects or any increase in Lymphoedema, cepted the role again this year. and that there were immeasurable psychological Your hobby has become your career – has benefits – which I can definitely attest to. this changed your enjoyment of the sport?

But it’s not a sport only for breast cancer Actually, I think my off-the-water involvement survivors? has overtaken the on-the-water adventures No, it’s certainly not. Although dragon boating (breaking my ankle last year didn’t assist this has been the face of breast cancer for more than either!) That said, it has enhanced my enjoyment 15 years, it’s a sport that attracts men, of the sport in many ways, as I have been women and juniors. People with fortunate enough to travel both disabilities are encouraged to nationally and internationally as paddle as well. It is one of a survivor paddler and have st the fastest growing water made lifelong friends who I attended a Brea Cancer Network sports in the world. In have travelled the same ence in NSW alone there are 60 path. One of my biggest Australia Confer 4 with 0 Mel bourne in 20 e, Lee Clubs, 25% of which achievements was to nurs my breast care are breast cancer survisuccessfully complete the re whe M illard-Newton, anton, vor groups.

56 kilometre Ord River H we met Michelle You’ve done much to Dragon Boat Marathon on ns go founder of Dra support breast cancer two occasions – definitely a .” ia al tr Abreast Aus survivors, through padbucket-list tick-off. dling and otherwise. In The local Dragons Abreast fact, in 2010 you were voted Club has an interesting camWoman of Achievement by paign coming up in April – tell us Quota International Coffs Harbour. about that …

Yes, I was nominated in recognition of We are taking delivery of a ‘breast cancer outstanding service in supporting survivors post detection tool’ aka fake breast with lumps in it breast cancer treatment. Because my own life and having two ‘come and feel’ stalls, 9am - 2pm had improved dramatically after treatment, I felt at the Growers' Market on Thursday 10 April and a strong desire to give back to the community Harbourside Markets at the Jetty on Sunday 13 and organisations who so generously gave my life April. Examination of the breast will be by gold back to me. coin donation, which will be donated to DAA. I assisted the Cancer Council in launching their We will have health professionals on hand booklet When a Parent has Cancer, how to Talk to answer any queries, and information will be to your Children, and was involved in media to available about dragon boating as well as other launch the accommodation for cancer patients support groups. Everyone is encouraged to come and their families at the North Coast Cancer along and find out what a breast cancer lump acInstitute. From 2005-2008, I was a co-facilitator tually feels like – and remember, men get breast for the local support group, The Young and the cancer too!

Breastless, and have been a past Vice President Then you are off to Sarasota, Florida in Octoand President of Coffs Coast Dragon Boat Club. ber for the IBCPC Festival?

I am in my tenth year with Dragons Abreast It will be the largest breast cancer survivor and for the past two years have held the role dragon boat festival in the world – can you imagof North Coast Regional Representative looking ine the sea of pink!

“

There are currently more than 100 teams worldwide registered to participate – 13 are Aussie teams, with ten being DAA teams, three of which are composite teams Hope, Inspiration and Spirit. I will be paddling with Team Inspiration. Our teams consist of members from all over the country from as far north as Darwin, west to Bunbury, south to Tasmania and all along the east coast, including another Coffs Coast paddler, Caz Williams. Many of these women have paddled together at previous IBCPC Festivals. As a National Representative I will attend the Congress whilst in Sarasota.

Your journey through breast cancer is very inspiring. What message of encouragement do you have for women and men currently undergoing treatment?

Never give up, try not to have too many expectations, surround yourselves with genuine people (sometimes the people you expect to be there for you are the least able to assist and those you least expect are there at the ready). Don’t be afraid to ask for help, don’t listen to the statistics – we are all individuals. Your priorities may change – usually for the better. There can be a wonderful and fulfilling life post diagnosis – seek and reap.

How can people get involved in dragon boat paddling here on the Coffs Coast?

Members of DACC are also members of CCDBC, which has the advantage of everyone being able to paddle together regardless of gender, age, race or physical ability. We have four training sessions per week, either on the Bellinger River at Mylestom or Bonville Creek at Sawtell. Check the website: www.coffscoastdbc.com.au – or call Judi for DACC enquires on 0411 084 917 or CCDBC on 0418 953 882.

And Angie, do you have one final word?

Yes. I have actually heard some people say they are glad they got breast cancer. I will NEVER say that. I will say, however, that I feel I have made the most of my diagnosis and firmly believe I would not be where I am today without determination, optimism and hope.

Hop in a dragon boat; leave the ‘bad’ stuff on the shore and when you return, yes, it might still be there, but not as severe as to how you left it.

Thanks Angie.

Coffs Event Centre Early Childhood Music The most fun you can have when you’re under 5?

Early Childhood Music Who remembers playing musical chairs? What’s the first song you ever learned when you were a child? I bet you’ve never forgotten laughing with other children playing together and just having the best time.

Imagine your child doing this in a structured, pathway of exploration and experience in stages beginning at 2 years, or now even from as young as 9 months. With the Early Childhood Music programs provided here at the Conservatorium, we have been doing this every week for the past 17 years.

Early Childhood Music is the most important program we offer; it is the one place that it is possible for every child to discover a love of music and then potentially grow this love into a lifelong passion or career as an artist of the future.

Everyone has the potential to fulfil their dreams when they’re given the gift of exploring the possibilities, and this too can be imagined in Early Childhood Music.

In the words of the wonderful Australian music Educator Richard Gill, "Music is a bookend in every child’s education, with sport at one end and music at the other".

Two Great Events The Showground Gallery, the home of Coffs Harbour Creative Arts Group (CHCAG), has been in its present spot for over 40 years and yet, it is still unknown to most people.

Many creative artists have passed through its doors and now as membership is on the rise, it is time to show what an active part of the arts community they are.

Bi-monthly exhibitions are planned throughout the year. The first Member’s Exhibition for 2014, Rainforest to Sea, will open 6pm Friday 4 April.

On Sunday 6 April, the members are opening the doors to the workshop and gallery, setting up marquees on the lawn for a fun filled Open Day from 10am - 3pm. Fun for all the family, enjoy an espresso coffee, fresh ice cream and body writing.

Demonstrations and activities will continue throughout the day, featuring acrylics, pastels, life drawing, watercolours, fibre arts and calligraphy. Participate in a mini lesson or a ‘hands on’ experience.

This month – best range of BATTERY POWERED PA SYSTEMS FOR HIRE in Coffs Harbour.

So convenient – just locate them and turn them on! Play music – make announcements – much more. Great for your next function, wedding or other event.

ALL OUR SYSTEMS Run on Battery or 240v power. Have an MP3 player – play from a USB connection or SD card. Have Wireless Microphones. Audio/instrument IN – Audio OUT etc.

RANGE OF SIZES From small – for gatherings of 10 - 70 people to larger, dual speaker systems, for audiences up to 400 people.

We have quality powered systems for the largest audiences.

OPTIONS AVAILABLE Play from CD/DVD, iPod, iPad, tablet, laptop etc. Bluetooth connection. Multiple microphones and extended life battery packs.

Learn more at www.pahire.coffseventcentre.com Get FREE one-on-one help with your technical questions Tel: (02) 6658 0071; email: action@avcorporate.com

Admission is free to both events.

Three closely associated businesses work out of the Coffs Event Centre – WOW Functions, AV Corporate, and Balloons Plus – delivering everything you need for events, parties, functions, promotions, weddings, conferences.

For more information: Libby 0488 060 805, Ken 6652 7729 or Sharon shaz@ingersole.com or 0414 757 245.

NEXT ISSUE we will bring you another aspect of the Coffs Event Centre.

Find out everything you wanted to know about different mediums; talk to members about social painting days and classes.

ENROL TODAY to play, listen, learn & perform at Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium Bray St Complex, Cnr Bray St and Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | Phone: 02 6652 1592 Vist the new website at: www.coffscon.org.au

coffs coast focus 35

focusinterview.

giant m

e

d i a

If you’re considering hiring a web developer to build your website, then this story is for you … with a seamless choice of independent web designers out there, the team at Giant Media bring to market a brand new space along the Jetty Strip offering clients a central space where they can come and share ideas with the team ...

W

here is your new space? Why did you move from Isles Drive?

Our new office is located above Coopers Surf in the heart of the Jetty. One of the main reasons we moved was expansion, and really we just wanted to have an office that reflected what we are all about.

How does being in a more central location benefit your clients?

Having a location that is in Coffs’ most exciting business district really helps; also, having a number of quality coffee providers within walking distance is a must.

Aesthetically ... tell us about the fit out?

We have gone for a modern, organic feel office with natural timbers, grass and modern lighting; really, you have to drop in to check it out.

You've transitioned from offering website design to a full service agency … what are the services that you offer?

We offer a full range of graphic design services such as branding, print and signage design. What we really try to do is represent our clients’ brands through every medium and help their message stay consistent.

What types of businesses do you assist, and who are some of you clients?

From your local service style companies through to true global companies. We have clients in eight countries; we really service every type of business. From great local companies like Coffs Solar Energy, Coopers and Klaustel through to some big businesses such as McDonald’s, KV2 (Czech Republic Speaker Company), Pacifica (NZ company) and Spanline Australia, just to name a few of over 350 clients.

It's a difficult process selecting a web design service.

Do you offer consultations?

Yes, the process can be a bit daunting. The best advice we can offer is to call us today for a free one-hour

36 coffs coast focus.

consultation. We help try and break down the barriers and really listen to what your new website or graphic design requirements are.

With social media changing the way we do business, how important is it that a business has a comprehensive website?

Yes, very important. Here at Giant we really try and make your content work as hard as possible for you. We have real simple measures that help you stay in-touch with social media platforms that can really help your business. Along with modern responsive and parallax web design, we can really give you the edge.

What advice can you give to anyone out there in the market l From your loca for a new website? e yl st service OK, great question. Make nies through to pa m co sure that your new website panies; true global com eight includes the following: in we have clients 1. It’s not a template and is ally re e W s. ie tr un co a properly designed site that of pe ty y er service ev matches your brand. .” ss busine 2. The website is responsive; this allows the site to maximise the user’s experience on any device, from a mobile through to large screen.

3. Really compare apples with apples.

4. We have seen it too many times where disgruntled clients come and see us after using an inferior service; do your homework.

5. The site easily integrates with popular social media platforms.

6. Can your site expand with your business?

Drop in anytime to check out our new space and see how we can be a part of your marketing solutions.

8a 26-28 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour 6651 5322

“

Jetty Memorial Theatre As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop … do not despair; there is plenty to look forward to in the coming months at the Jetty Memorial Theatre.

Until Sunday 6 April, Coffs Harbour Amateur Theatre Society is back with Quartet, the play on which the very popular 2012 film was based, about a group of retired opera singers in a rather creative retirement home.

On Sunday 13 April, enjoy the evocative sounds of the ‘Nadia Piave Trio’. A café in Paris, a bazaar in Istanbul, a piazza in Naples – these are some of the places the Nadia Piave Trio take you to with their soulful, classical and worldly musical performances.

On Saturday 3 May, brighten up with a visit from the highly acclaimed Canadian comic Marty Putz, starring in Very Weird and Slightly Dangerous. Flying hamsters, exploding suits, weird inventions and huge marshmallow fights make up this visual spectacle for all ages! High energy and hilarious, this is the first show in years that will have the whole family laughing together.

Join the fun, visit www.jettytheatre.com now for further details, visit or call the box office noon - 4pm, Tues to Fri: (02) 6652 8088.

CHATS & SHIRLEY BARNETT PRESENT

QUARTET If you loved the movie, you’ll love the play. The story about a group of retired opera singers in a rather musical retirement home...

Wed 26th March - 6th April COFFS CONSERVATORIUM PRESENTS

NADIA PIAVE TRIO A café in Paris, a bazaar in Istanbul, a piazza in Naples - these are some of the places the Nadia Piave Trio takes you to.

Sun 13th April 2pm A JETTY THEATRE TOURING PRODUCTION

MARTY PUTZ Exploding hamsters, flying jet packs, 10,000 marshmallows and 4,000 megabytes of random access entertainment and attitude!

Sat 3rd May 2pm (All ages) & 7pm (M15+) Box office hours Tuesday to Friday 12 noon - 4pm jettytheatre.com | 02 6652 8088 facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au 337 Harbour Drive

Proudly supported by

jetty memorial theatre SEASON 2014

coffs coast focus 37

focuseditorial.

MARKETING

IDEAS

What is marketing really?

It’s a complex notion for most, and simple for others. Simply marketing is about differentiating your business and its products or services from competitors, whilst satisfying your customers’ needs in the best possible way.

Key to this is understanding all about your customers and giving them what they want.

It’s not just about pushing advertising out there anywhere in the hope that the ideal prospect customer will take note of it and ideally follow through with a sale.

samwardman

Here are a few golden rules of marketing:

• Promotion & Sales – How do your customers want to buy? Online, face to face? Get into the psyche of your customers’ buying behaviours and develop your sales and promotion strategy around this. Remember – customer service is key!

• Branding & Product Positioning – Know what you are selling and what your business represents to your ideal customer. Identify your ideal position in the market and where you sit amongst competitors.

• Plan, Plan, Plan – Set marketing goals, define your strategies with clear actions to achieve them. Without a plan, how can you know where you are going and keep yourself on track!

• Target Markets – Research and define who your target buyers are, why they would buy your product/service and what are their needs – then satisfy them!

And if you need help with all this … we’re only a phone call or email away!

Effective Marketing involves looking at your marketing from a holistic approach, examining every aspect of your business, internal and external, and how it interrelates with the customer experience.

Happy Marketing!

Sam Wardman

coffs coast focus 39

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

RAJ GARCHA 25 year old Marketing Assistant for Park Beaach Plaza.

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about the courageous Caz Heise. This month we are catching up with the pocket rocket, Raj Garcha, and her Personal Trainer, Steve Marquette, to hear her inspiring story.

W

hat is your weight management background, Raj? At a young age my weight started to increase quite rapidly in a short period of time, which really bothered me. The cause of the rapid weight gain was finally found to be due to an underactive thyroid.

And how did that make you feel?

Having a weight problem at a young age was quite difficult. I was never into playing sports or keeping fit, so having to exercise every day and being on a strict diet was extremely challenging, especially when you look around at your friends at school and they are eating food that all kids love to eat. Unfortunately, one of the toughest things with being overweight and being at school, was that kids don’t understand why people are the shape they are. They assume that people are overweight because they are eating the wrong foods, and sometimes kids can just be cruel when they don’t have an understanding of an issue.

So how did you go about making that positive change?

With medical information, seeing a dietician and planning a healthy exercise regime, I started walking a minimum of 30 minutes every day and increased my walking distance each time. I never missed a day, come rain, hail or shine. When I was old enough I joined a local mixed Oztag team and then later joined Coffs Coast Health Club. Once I started to lose weight slowly but gradually, I started to feel good about myself and could see my body shape change, which built up my confidence and made me more motivated and determined to keep going.

What types of exercise do you participate in now?

My personal trainer, Steve, has been a great source of support, coaching, mentoring and has worked closely with me as I set and achieve my goals. Steve adds a lot of variety and no one session is the same, which keeps it interesting while staying true to my goals. We mix weights sessions with cardio, sprints, boxing and kettlebells. We also work on my agility, strength and conditioning for my representative Oztag. His sessions are very intense and enjoyable, which is how I like them, but he reads me very well and

how much I can take due to his experience.

What goals have you achieved so far?

In the last 4 years I have come a long way not only in my weight but also my strength and fitness; I have always ensured that I have had reachable goals, so I have the drive and motivation to reach them. In the last two years I have participated in the 10 km Bendigo Bank Fun Run and improved my time each year.

Most recently I played in the Australian Oztag Championships and represented the Mid North Coast in the women’s open team, and now I am training to represent Coffs Harbour in our Coffs Comets open women’s Oztag team at the NSW Oztag State Cup Tournament in March.

What are your goals for the future?

My goal is to maintain my current weight, increase my fitness level further and also maintain my passion for sports and fitness. I hope one day that I can achieve another one of my goals and become a group fitness instructor, as I have learnt from being at Coffs Coast Health Club, that group fitness is a great way of meeting new people and enjoying workouts with friends. What was once a chore for me at a young age is now something I love to do: 'Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going'.

Thanks for sharing, Raj, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at Coffs Coast Health Club or contact 6658 6222 today.

• FRESH •

BINGE

LISTENING E P I D E M I C

DENTAL care My name is Susan Waldorf; I'm a dental hygienist who graduated in 2012 from Newcastle University.

T H E ‘ B I N G E L I S T E N I N G ’ E PI D E M IC A M O N G S T O U R YO U T H A N D W H Y W E N E E D TO ACT N OW !

This Youth Week, Australian Hearing is warning young people that regular exposure to loud music or ‘binge listening’ can cause permanent hearing damage.

Although hearing problems are normally associated with ageing, our youth will need hearing aids earlier in life if they continue to damage their hearing by listening to music at dangerous volumes.

Research by Australian Hearing’s National Acoustic Laboratories highlights that while youth are aware of the risk of loud noise to their hearing, they are not changing their behaviours.

“The very sad fact is that noise induced hearing loss is preventable,” explains Karina Morrison, Manager of Australian Hearing in Coffs Harbour.

“Just small changes such as turning down the volume of your music device or wearing ear plugs at concerts can mean you can listen safely to the music you love and help avoid permanent damage.”

40 coffs coast focus.

Did you know if you listen to your mobile device at 100% volume for over 5 minutes, your hearing will be damaged! The good news? Just turn it down to 80% volume, and you can listen safely for 90 minutes!

Hearing Saving Checklist: • Turn down the volume on your phone, iPods, MP3 or stereo.

• Walk away from speakers at concerts or clubs and take breaks.

• Protect your ears with ear plugs or ear muffs.

Australian Hearing will be at the Headspace ‘Check Your Head’ Youth Festival at Coffs Harbour Showgrounds on Wednesday 16 April.

Everyone’s invited to ‘sound check’ their own mobile devices using ‘Kylie’, Australian Hearing’s acoustic mannequin.

Australian Hearing provides free hearing services for young people up to the age of 26 years. For more information, call 6652 0700 or visit www.hearing.com.au

However, throughout 2013, I furthered my qualifications by completing a second degree in Dental Therapy, allowing me to specialise in dentistry for children.

Having grown up on the Mid North Coast and experiencing the lifestyle this area has to offer, my intention was always returning and working within the community which I call home. I am pleased to be back and enjoying this beautiful part of the coast whilst making a difference by improving the oral health of the community.

I provide preventative treatment to patients of all age groups and treat common oral diseases suffered by children. I am passionate about my profession, aiming to give my patients all the knowledge I have gained, ensuring that each individual receives the best care possible.

Dental decay is a number one health problem within our country today. Medicare Australia has a Child Dental Benefits Scheme in place for children aged between 2-17 years offering

$1,000 over a 2 year period to cover essential dental services. Eligible patients are entitled to examinations, diagnostic x-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canals, extractions and partial dentures, excluding cosmetics and orthodontics.

We would like to welcome the community to become a part of our friendly and caring team at Fresh Dental Care. You can visit our website www.freshdentalcare.com.au for further information or you can call today and speak with one of our helpful reception staff at our Coffs Harbour practice on 6651 1350.

YOGA FOR THE SEASONS WITH LISA TELFORD

Pat e l l o f e m o r a l Pain Syndrome

YOGA F O R

T H E

SEASONS In addition to moving your body to health with yoga, I'm delighted to be able to share some easy and beneficial health giving tools with you.

COFFS COFFS

Physiotherapy S H& OBUaLcDk Ec Ra r e & HAND Sean & Patrick, being passionate

LET'S START WITH AUTUMN

CLINIC

athletes themselves, understand the drive to remain active, but as physios also Hand understand the need Common Injuries to avoid long term damage.

P

atellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS),

to gain long term control, any underlying

anterior knee pain or ‘moviegoers

predisposing factors need to be addressed. I

knee’ as sometimes called, accounts

know it does get harped on, but everything

for 25 - 40% of all reported knee

always starts with strong core muscles

pain. It is common amongst adolescents and

(unfortunately, far too often these are being

young adults, characterised by pain behind

preformed ineffectively!) Next comes the hip,

the kneecap or at the back of the knee, typically after prolonged sitting, but also experienced with squatting, stairs, running, cycling or kneeling.

The cause is suspected to be excessive compressive or shear force against the deep

and any muscle weakness here will lead to compensatory overload stress on the knee and patella.

The muscle on the inside of the knee [vastus medialis] is the focus for strengthening

surface of the patella (kneecap) due to poor

around the knee. This strengthening gains

tracking, tight muscles/ligaments, or muscle

better control of the patella – but sometimes

weakness. Being female or having poor

it is not the strength but in the timing of

alignment of the hip/knee/ankle predisposes

the contraction that is out of sync. Finally,

you to the condition.

occasionally it also includes how the foot

You may be familiar with seeing tape across

is striking the ground that is part of the

the patella of some athletes – this often

problem – that is why our assessments are

will temporarily relieve the pain, and can be

extensive, to give you improved outcomes

a worthwhile interim approach. However,

and long term control!

A

utumn is the season to contract, eliminate and strengthen after the heat, expanse and abundance of summer. The lungs and the large intestine are the autumn organs. These are our prime organs of elimination. When these organs work well, the body releases toxins efficiently, allowing you to slim down, strengthen and tone your body, targeting those problem areas of bottoms and thighs.

Strengthening the contractive function in our large intestine increases our ability to absorb minerals from food, eliminates waste and blockages, which allows the mind to become clear and sharp as opposed to foggy, stuck and stubborn.

When the lung energies are balanced, our skin improves, allergy symptoms reduce and energy and vitality return. When we strengthen the Metal Element of Autumn we ward off colds, flu and that heavy feeling, replacing it with motivation, decisive activity and optimism!

HEALTHY TOOLS AND TIPS FOR AUTUMN As the seasons change, it's important that we honour our bodies and adapt in line with the seasons. Here are some tools to help with the change.

Eat in line with the season – eat local seasonal foods – apples, pears, broccoli, cabbage, pumpkin, cauliflower, zucchini, sweet potato are in their prime. You may notice that your food cravings change along with the season. Lots of fruits and crisp cold salads may not appeal to you as much. You may feel like stews, roasts or slow cooked baking. Eat what calls to you! Avoid cold food and drinks, as lung tissue is sensitive at this time of year. Steer off mucus-forming

foods such as sugar, anything white or processed or lots of dairy – especially if you feel a cold coming on. Try something spicy – in Chinese medicine, pungent flavours are associated with lungs. Work some onions, ginger, garlic and turnips into your meals.

Cleanse – each morning, a half hour before food, drink the juice of ½ a lemon diluted in warm water for a helpful intestinal cleanse.

Sleep for the seasons – less daylight hours means that our bodies naturally require more sleep. Listen to your body, ignore late night TV – get to bed!

Think for the season – autumn represents the time for letting go as we prepare for the deep rest, hibernation of winter. Prepare your mind by letting go of negative thinking or habits that no longer serve you. Lay to rest old negative patterns so that over winter you can enjoy a sense of inner peace, reflection and calm.

Feed your lungs – deep conscious breathing and fresh air are vital for lung health and overall vitality – enjoy a walk on the beach or in the bush breathing in lung fulls of health giving air.

Warm your body – keep warm – especially your chest, neck, head and feet to help ward off colds and flu. It’s a good time of year to 'get a sweat happening' to help detox through the skin; try relaxing in a sauna or steam room.

Enjoy your autumn, get to a yoga class to help you take the time and space to let go – it will greatly benefit you (and those around you)!

Lisa Telford: www.yogafortheseasons.com.au Moonee Beach Marketplace Lisa: 0401 536 653. coffs coast focus 41

The Multiple Uses of Botox The botulinum toxin ( known as Botox or Dysport ), produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria is a “neurotoxin”, ie it is a “ poison “ to nerve endings. he toxin attaches itself to the

T

neuromuscular endplate (the connecting point of the nerve fibre to muscle fibre) and

paralyzes the muscle by not leaving space for Acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter from nerve fibres, to attach itself to the endplate, which is how normal muscle contraction occurs.

Even in small doses, this toxin is a killer, but in extremely small doses, partial muscle paralysis is achieved, thus weakening the action of the muscle.

This beneficial effect was first made use of to reduce severe eyelid spasm (blepharospasm) and squinting (strabismus).

Botox is also used to reduce spasm or muscle over activity in a number of other areas, including in the neck, the limbs, the bladder, the prostate and in sweat glands in the armpits, palms and the sole of foot.

42 coffs coast focus.

The major use of Botox nowadays is for its cosmetic effects on the face.

now established a very effective, near

Migraine headaches affect a large number of people each year, causing great distress to those affected and at great cost due to time lost from normal activities including work.

Vaginismus is a condition in which a

It used to be thought that it was a vascular headache, due to spasm of our arteries in the affected areas.

intercourse.

The pioneering work of Prof Bahaman Guyuron of the Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland has shed new light on this.

to severe.

From observations made on patients having Botox for cosmetic reasons, he worked out that migraine was caused by muscle spasm squeezing nerves, which then released chemicals which caused migraine. While Botox gives significant relief to migraine sufferers, Prof Gayuron has gone further, identifying the muscles and nerves causing migraine and has

that the use of Botox injections under

permanent surgical cure for migraine. woman is unable to tolerate vaginal penetration of any sort, including the insertion of tampons, vaginal examination and penetration, including While the causes are unclear, the effect is due to vaginal spasm, ranging from mild Pioneering work done by Dr Peter Pacik, a Plastic Surgeon in Manchester, New Haven, has shown anaesthesia to break the spasm cycle and followed immediately by vaginal dilatation permits the patient to continue with regular post-operative dilatations at home, leads to a permanent cure to the problem in most women, restoring normalcy including the ability to have a normal sex life.

focusinterview.

Y O U R

HEALTH LINK

We speak with Carolyn Guichard about the launch of the Your Health Link Website - yourhealthlink .com.au

meet a

local.

DEBORAh M C P H E R S O N

Care co-ordinator, Coffs Harbour Masonic Village ow long have you been in I first completed Cert III in Aged Care, aged care industry? which took 6 months. Then I went on to I started over 10 years ago. complete Cert IV in Aged Care, which was When my youngest child started one day a week for 12 months. I was very school, I thought it was time for me to start lucky to have been offered a fully funded thinking about getting back into work ... position for Diploma in Nursing (Endorsed but “What!” I thought. Someone suggested Enrolled Nurse) through TAFE – this took 18 aged care, so I looked into what it was months, 3 days a week. about and applied to do a Cert III in Aged Masonic Village in Coffs Harbour has Care. During this time I became a volunteer supported me over the past 10 years, and I here at Masonic Coffs Harbour, and 10 years feel very lucky to be a part of this great later here I am, absolutely loving this team. industry.

What should people consider when What is the most challenging thinking about a career in aged aspect about working in care? aged care?

This industry is not for Every day I come everyone; it takes a across challenges. rt special person to pa ng di The most rewar re ca They can be as work in aged care, ed ag in of working y, pp ha s little as everyone who wants to nt de si is seeing the re owing kn d an wanting to be ng make someone hi ug well and la ledge ow kn d an s the first up in ill else’s life more sk that my to their d te bu ri nt the morning, to enriched. I co have sidents get to re e th s; es in pp a new resident would suggest ha ok forward to know you and lo who has just they speak to n.” seeing you agai moved in and someone regarding their emotions are this, like TAFE or a high as they have just career adviser, or even left their family home become a volunteer. and sometimes they have What does a day in the had to leave behind their husband life of someone working in or wife. You need to be professional, caring aged care look like? and support them and their spouse and Well for me, my day starts at 7am. extended family as well.

Firstly I follow up on residents who have What do you find most rewarding about been unwell, liaise with the care manager, working in aged care? assisting staff as needed, and assist doctors The most rewarding part of working in who have visited or are visiting the facility. aged care is seeing the residents happy, well I also have set tasks to achieve, from AFCI, and laughing and knowing that my skills end of month reports, care plans, audits and and knowledge have contributed to their contact with the pharmacy regarding any happiness; the residents get to know you changes. and look forward to seeing you again.

My day can be a very busy and stressful; It makes you feel that all the hard work however, you need to manage your time was worth it. and be understanding and keep a cool head, Did you study to work in the industry? If otherwise it can be overwhelming.

I love my job! so, how long did you study for?

H

“

W

hat prompted the creation of the Your Health Link Website – what need does it fill?

In 2006 the Australian Bureau of Statistics found that almost 60 per cent of adult Australians have low health literacy. This means that a large number of Australians find it hard to obtain, read, understand and use health care information. As you can imagine, low health literacy has a significant impact on health, leading to poorer health outcomes as people may not understand, for example, the cause of disease or the lifestyle factors that contribute to disease. We know from a 2010 Nielsen study that searching for health information on the internet was among the top 10 internet activities for online Australians over 16 years of age and that finding the correct information on health related topics can be complex and overwhelming for consumers and can take many hours of search time.

The Mid North Coast Local Health District is committed to increasing health literacy rates by making it easier to gain online access to health information from reputable health related organisations. We also wanted to reduce search times by creating a website that acts as a gateway or a central one stop place where our community can find information on a range of health and health related topics.

What are the key features of the website?

The most important feature is that we have utilised a team of health specialists and community representatives from government and non-government organisations to choose all of the links on the site, which ensures our

community has access to the right information.

Other features include a text to speech service for people with a vision impairment and those who find it difficult to read. There is access to useful health related telephone numbers, direct links to NSW Health, a Health Events Calendar and a search facility to find local Hospital, GP and Pharmacy information.

What types of information can be found, and how often is it updated?

We have a wide range of health related information on the website, including health facts, support and counselling services, legal, finance and housing, mental health, drug and alcohol, sexual health and more – with information divided into eight categories: Child and Family, Youth, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Seniors, Carers, People with Disability, Aboriginal Health and Multicultural Health.

Every link on the site is regularly monitored and updated as new initiatives occur.

How does it benefit those in the local area?

The Mid North Coast Local Health District is providing this free service to our community to support health consumers, teachers, students and health professionals. The site also has a teacher resource section and information that can be used for research and student projects.

What was your role in the creation of the Your Health Link website?

I have over 30 years' experience in the Health industry, both as a Nurse and Clinical Educator ... my role is to manage the design and content on the website, work with our advisors to source current information and develop partnerships with linked organisations to strengthen the capability of the website.

coffs coast focus 43

focusinterview.

DR MICHAEL T A W A D R O U S V A S C U L A R

S U R G E O N

DR MICHAEL TAWADROUS IS A NEW YOUNG VASCULAR SURGEON WHO HAS RECENTLY RELOCATED TO COFFS HARBOUR WITH HIS WIFE, NINA, AND TWO YOUNG CHILDREN.

W

hen and why did you first decide to become a doctor?

That goes a way back, perhaps when I was at primary school ... I was fascinated by how the heart and circulation work, and kept telling my parents I wanted to be a doctor and a scientist ... from then on, they never stopped encouraging me ...

Where did you study, and what brought you to Australia ... more importantly Coffs Harbour?

I studied medicine in New Zealand and trained in vascular surgery in Australia and New Zealand. As part of the vascular surgery training program, we are asked to move between both countries to gain as much experience from different units as we can.

My wife, kids and I loved Australia, its relaxed lifestyle and its people, so we decided to stay. We made the decision when we were in Adelaide a few years ago. Coffs Harbour hospital was in need of a vascular surgeon for many years, and the hospital invited me to come and see the area.

The hospital staff were all the more welcoming, that it was just a delight dealing with everyone. We fell in love with the beaches, the sun and the lifestyle last summer ... and here we are!

What do you recall as being some of the most important things you've learned since becoming a doctor?

That medicine is not about the detail of the science behind any of the interventions we offer; it is about patients and joining their journey through the disease process ... in any area of medicine, communication and attention to detail are arguably the most important aspects. Along the way, I also learned how to operate, and how to fix vascular surgical problems.

Describe how your career has tracked to date …

I was the first candidate at Dunedin Medical school to undertake a PhD whilst finishing my medical studies. I researched the hepatic microcirculation and transplant rejection in vivo.

44 coffs coast focus.

I then went on to Auckland's Middlemore and North Shore hospitals to do my junior doctor years, learning how to care for patients on the wards. I got on the vascular surgical training program when I was a first year 'house surgeon' (intern as they are called in New Zealand) and did a few years of my I also operate surgical training on patients with at Auckland, rge bleeding from la is a Middelmore, It s. in ve arteries or pidly and Hamilton ra d an ng rewardi edicine m hospitals. I also evolving area of disabling strokes. On the din m did vascular that has seen other hand, abnormal e es in th surgery at the blowing advanc dilatations of blood vessels Royal Adelaide, last few years.” (called aneurysms) may go Liverpool, Concord unnoticed for many years and St. George before they rupture and cause Hospitals in Sydney. death. I treat these disease processes All the lovely staff at Coffs with traditional surgical techniques as well Base, Baringa Private Hospitals and I are as minimally invasive ones (involving the use of setting up the provision of vascular surgical wires and stents). I also treat and operate on services in Coffs Harbour, which is a challenge patients with varicose veins, blood clots in deep at this stage of my career. The latest vascular veins and those with diabetic feet to prevent surgical interventions available are being leg loss. A significant part of my practice is introduced to this area, on par with major providing vascular access to patients with tertiary hospitals in Australia. This will transform kidney failure (such that they start and maintain healthcare provision in Coffs Harbour. It is a dialysis) and those who require chemotherapy. working progress that could not have been I also operate on patients with bleeding from done without the enthusiasm and support from large arteries or veins. It is a rewarding and everyone involved. rapidly evolving area of medicine that has seen What's your speciality, and why did mind-blowing advances in the last few years. you decide to specialise in this area of The combination of techniques used, technical medicine? challenge and the variety of disease processes I am a vascular surgeon; that is, a doctor that are treated have attracted me to vascular who treats and operates on arteries and veins surgery. throughout the body. In developing countries, What inspires you to keep helping people? infection is of major importance, whereas The smile on patients' faces and simple in the western world, cardiovascular disease 'thank you' when it is time for their discharge. represents the main cause of death and Considering all of the advances that have disease. Narrowings, blockages of arteries and been made in medicine, is there anything blood clots in limbs may cause pain, swelling, you feel medical science/modern physicians ulceration and/or gangrene, and may lead to could be doing better? amputations.

We can always do better in listening to Similarly, blockages of the arteries that patients and supporting them throughout their supply the bowel or kidneys may lead to journey through the hospital system. intestinal gangrene or kidney failure. In From a technical and surgical standpoint, the neck, narrowings of arteries may cause and I will only talk about vascular surgery here,

“

there remains a number of problems that have not been worked out. For instance, better incorporation of stent grafts in large vessels, dealing with and preventing the body's reaction to stents and grafts within arteries and veins, and designing better branched stent-graft devices that would allow the treatment of major disease of arteries in the chest without the need for cutting the chest open, spring to mind.

Also, there has been significant advance in newer anticoagulants that do not require any monitoring with blood tests; they, however, remain limited in their ability to be reversed if emergency surgery is at all required. This is an area of growing research.

When you're not in your scrubs, what do you do in your spare time? Have you relocated with your family?

I play, study and watch movies with my seven and six year old daughter and son, I also have a lot of coffee with Nina, my wife ... we all moved together and are still finding our feet in Coffs.

Our big plans of exercise and everyday walks on the beach have not materialised as yet!

Personally and professionally, what are you looking forward to in regards to calling Coffs Harbour home?

Coffs Harbour is a beautiful growing city with all its amazing views and lovely people.

To date, I have not met anyone who has not told me 'welcome', which makes it all the more worthwhile. My family and I would love to be a part of the growth of this city ... and yes, it takes 25 years to be a local, so we still have a bit to go!

Thanks Dr. Tawadrous.

2014 Easter Fishing Classic

The Music Hit Annie

Coffs Harbour Deep Sea Fishing Club’s 2014 Easter Fishing Classic is on from Friday 18 to Sunday 20 April.

The upcoming offering from the Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company is the well-loved family musical hit ANNIE.

Trying for a Baby?

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If you have just started trying, we can provide you with the tools you need to better understand your cycle, so you can predict when you are most fertile.

If you are having difficulty falling pregnant, we can assist you with fertility screening to determine the source of the problem. Many causes of infertility can be easily corrected with natural therapies.

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Book a consultation today to create a healthier you tomorrow!

As in previous years, this year’s event will include both Deep Sea and Beach Rock and Estuary fishing sections. Entry is $50 for adults and $15 for juniors.

Catch and Release option offers prizes for anglers who release Snapper in the deep sea competition and Flathead or Bream in the beach, rock and estuary competition.

All juniors and sub-juniors will win a prize – all they have to do is enter the competition and attend a weigh-in.

‘Mystery weight’ prizes will be also be awarded.

While there is a serious competition side to the Easter Classic, the overriding focus is on family fun and is open to everyone.

We hope our regular entrants will be joined by new local participants and visitors alike.

Daily weigh-ins are at the Fisho’s – Friday and Saturday between 1 and 3pm and Sunday between 11am and 1pm.

Entries will be accepted from 11am on Sunday 13 April at the Club.

Competition rules, entry forms are available on ‘the Fisho’s’ website: www.deepseafishingclub.com.au Or, call the club on 6652 1534.

Director Donna Fairall has assembled a great cast of well-known local performers such as Beckley Vincent, Fiona Stiles, Emma Goddard, Dave Tune, Jennie Touzel and Peter Hodges, as well as introducing two new young stars Amy Hancock and Ginger Freudenstein, who will share the role of Annie. The role of Annie’s dog Sandy will be played by 4-year old Labradoodle, Tippy Williams.

Annie is the story of a feisty red-haired orphan, abandoned by her parents on the steps of a New York City Orphanage run by the embittered Miss Hannigan. Will Annie and her orphan friends outwit Miss Hannigan’s evil schemes and find a new home with billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his secretary Grace Farrell and a loveable mutt named Sandy?

A not-to-be-missed treat for the whole family, Annie will be showing at the Jetty Memorial Theatre from Friday May 9 to Sunday June 1. Tickets and more information are now available from the JMT Box Office 6652 8088 or online at: www.jettytheatre.com/annie Photo caption: The two Annies (Ginger Freudenstein (L) and Amy Hancock (R) with Sandy (Tippy Williams).

coffs coast focus 45

focus_legal.

with Stephen Pratt

Emma Louise Flowers What is your area of expertise? I am a local florist creating flower arrangements for everyday and for all special occasions.

Share some expert advice with our readers? The key to long lasting flowers is buying flowers when they are in season and buying from local growers.

What makes your business stand out? I think my floral design style is quite nontraditional and organic. I work a lot with different foliages and accents to create I initially began arrangements that are my business in unique.

13, as a

STEPHEN

“

C H I L D R E N I N FA M I LY B R E A K D O W N

D

ifferences over the care of children are best resolved at home. Going to court should be an absolute last resort. But knowing something about how courts decide disputes is very helpful in sorting it out at home.

To find the Basic Law judges must apply in deciding disputes of this kind, Google Federal Circuit Court, click on Acts, Rules and Regulations, then go to the bottom of the page and click on Family Law Act 1975. Move past the Contents section and locate Sections 60B, 60CA, 60CC, 60CH, 60CI, 61DA, 64B, 65DAA, 67Z and 67ZBA. The law provides that above all else, the best interests of the child is the most important consideration. And it is the child's right to be protected from neglect, abuse and family violence. It is also the child’s right to know, be cared for by both parents and spend time on a regular basis with both parents and others such as grandparents; indeed, anyone involved with the care of the child.

Assuming the court confirms the statutory presumption that parents have equal shared parental responsibility for raising a child, it must also consider the option of the child spending equal time with each of the parents if that is reasonably practicable. And if not, whether the child spending substantial and significant time with each of the parents would be in the best interests of the child. This is designed to include the child's education process. The days of the contact parent enjoying weekend and holiday time only are gone in most cases.

Current research indicates, however, that unless both parents have developed a strong cooperative co-parenting liaison, equal shared parenting is unlikely to be in the best interests of the child. Also, from the child's point of view, the absence of a cooperative co-parenting relationship makes it very difficult to thrive.

Absent from the law is any reference to 46 coffs coast focus.

parents' rights. The only rights referred to are those of the child. This is a good reason to avoid court. Parents’ needs are important in sustaining their capacity to provide meaningful input into child rearing. They are the best equipped to understand and respect each other's needs. Even in the heated atmosphere of relationship change, it is important to consider such needs in reaching a resolution.

Leaving it to a judge makes it more akin to a lottery that parents’ needs are properly understood and accommodated.

If the process of family change results in parents being comfortable in each other's presence and proud of their child at milestone events, everyone will benefit. It could be anything from birthdays and Christmas, to graduations, weddings and births.

Coffs Harbour has an excellent resource to assist parents and children at little or no cost. The Family Relationships Centre in Park Avenue (telephone 6659 4150) offers help and guidance to anyone trying to grapple with the issues surrounding family change.

Advice from a family lawyer is also useful.

Open and confidential discussion of all parental issues is a sensible means of devising effective ways to navigate the process. The approach which avoids an expensive, traumatic and time consuming Court case will give your child the greatest chance to thrive and achieve full potential.

information!

For assistance in all areas of Family Law, Criminal Law, Wills & Estates, Property and business transactions, contact STEPHEN PRATT Lawyer.

P.O. Box 1906 Coffs Harbour NSW 2444 Phone (02) 6652 4659 Fax (02) 6651 6806

special occasions. I February 20 love to create unique er w When and why small online flo and individual flower w no ve ha I did you start your shop, and l al designs that reflect the sm a to ed business? I initially expand e th in personality of someone. op sh ue iq began my business in bout ea ad en Every arrangement is om Pr ffs February 2013, as a small Co different – you’ll never year later.” online flower shop, and get the same bouquet that I have now expanded to another bride has had before! a small boutique shop in the What's been the best business Coffs Promenade a year later. After advice you've received? Stay hungry and spending some time in Sydney as a florist, I passionate. decided to bring my passion for my work home with me and start my business to try to create a What do you enjoy most about working fresh outlook on buying flowers. on the Coffs Coast? The people of Coffs What is the best thing about your job?

Working with people for their weddings and

Harbour! There are a lot of truly positive and supportive people in this community.

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

Norman HOWARD. Morrisons Betta Home Living Norman and the team at Morrisons Betta Home Living bring to the table important factors to keep in mind, making sure you purchase products that not only meet your design and budget requirements, but also work for you and your family.

H

ow is this done?

Design Consultation: Norman is the region's only Certified Kitchen Designer with over 20 years' experience in kitchen design. Design consultations are available by appointment with Norman in store. At the end of this consultation you will have 3 copies of Plans, Elevations and 3D drawings of your new kitchen that you can then have quoted, all in the knowledge that your quotes will be apples for apples. Norman believes that there is always a way to get what you want, so why settle for what you think you have to have?

He also believes your involvement is vital. Designers can get carried away with what they would like to do, but at the end of the day it’s your house, and it has to reflect your lifestyle.

Product Selection: Morrisons carry an amazing range of brands to choose from, many exclusive to our store, including Siemens, L.G cooking, Highland, and St.George. They also supply Smeg, Bosch, Miele, Westinghouse and Asko. There is no need to view these products in brochures, as Morrisons display an extensive range of stock and floor models. Norman

and the team are there to make this process as easy as possible, helping match kitchen appliances to customer needs.

Knowledge of Appliances: Not only does Morrisons Betta Home Living host the largest Kitchen Showroom on the North Coast, their combined knowledge and experience is second to none. Garth and Brett Morrison grew up in the store; you could almost say it’s in their blood. Norman’s knowledge often extends past what the appliances can do, having trained as a chef prior to becoming a designer, and he will often give cooking tips.

Budget: Though one of the most important topics is also often the most delicate, a discussion about budget early in the conversation often evades disappointment. There are so many products to choose from, and it can be disappointing getting excited about a product, only to find out it is unaffordable.

Budgets can be achieved in many ways; sometimes it’s as simple as buying different brands or prioritising what products are most important. Morrisons carry a range of products and options to suit all budgets.

M E E T

T H E

EXPERTS

What are the benefits of buying locally?

Being locals, we live and work in the Coffs community, so it is in our best interests to make sure that you are happy with your purchase and if you have a problem, we are here to help. Morrisons also support many local charities, schools and sporting groups.

So when you are looking for a whole new shopping experience that offers real service and knowledge, call in and see the Team at Morrisons Betta Home Living – you won’t be disappointed.

coffs coast focus 47

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

M E E T

T H E

EXPERTS Interdata Solutions Principal, Hendrik talks about:

Cyber spies use public hotspots at hotels, on public transport and around Council malls using 'Evil Twin' Technology to steal usernames and passwords and other information. hen travelling on business

Wireless users who connect to an 'evil twin'

or for pleasure, seeking out

risk their data being scraped by a criminal

a reliable Wi-Fi connection

who captures all of their unencrypted

is usually a priority for most

communications that are going through his

travellers. While mobile 3G/4G connections

wireless router. Each and every wireless data

satisfy some, the speed of Wi-Fi for laptops

packet is sniffed and captured by a software

or uploading/downloading larger files

program that will later piece together all

doesn’t compare.

the information in order to steal identities.

More and more hotels, motels, public transport

Unsecured, unprotected and unencrypted

and Councils are offering users free Wi-Fi, but

communications over an 'evil twin' on any

security experts say some thieves are using

publicly connected Wi-Fi (such as at a coffee

the popular service to steal users’ sensitive

shop, airport, ferry or hotel) are vulnerable to

information, and they’re doing it by tricking

sniffers.

people into using a fake free Wi-Fi connection.

On wireless connections that aren’t properly

A cyber spy creates a dummy Wi-Fi connection

secured, your best line of defence is to

using a mobile hot spot, and will give it a

use virtual private network software that

generic name to resemble a hotel, public

protects your identity by ensuring that all

transport or Council's, hotel’s actual Wi-Fi

web transactions (shopping, filling out forms,

connection, such as ‘YourHotel Wi-Fi’ or

downloads) are secured through HTTPS.

‘MyCouncil.’ If a user connects [his or her]

Interdata Engineers have tested and can

laptop to the dummy Wi-Fi, the spy gains

demonstrate the 'Evil Twin' technique. If you're

access to all of the guest’s browsing activity,

unsure of your Wireless Security or would like to

and will often times use a key-logger program

arrange Wireless Security Audit, please contact

to capture username and password information.

Interdata Solutions on 1300 130 931.

This is called an 'evil twin': anyone can set up

A basic Wireless Security Audit will be

a router to say 'MyHotSpot', 'TelstraWireless',

provided for FREE during the month of

or 'OptusWiFi'. These connections may appear

April and May 2014 by emailing us or calling

legitimate, but are often traps set to snare

us to book a visit by an Engineer. Please quote

anyone who connects to it.

promotional code – IDSWAP1404

48 coffs coast focus.

Vaughn Dawes. Owner/Operator Dawes Landscaping When and why did you start Dawes Landscaping? I had just finished my HSC and was in the process of deciding which path to take when Brian Hopwood offered me some casual work. I was playing footy with Hoppy at the time, and he required a 'gopher' on the job site. Eventually we landscaped the house I was working on. Of all the odd jobs I'd done, landscaping was the one that appealed to me the most.

Then, Selwyn Manz, whom I also played footy with, was working with Pergolas Plus. They had a

permanent position available, so I jumped at the chance. I grew to really enjoy the building side of things that structural landscaping has to offer. Six years later after gaining my qualifications in the trade, I went out on my own. As time went on, I even put an apprentice through his time.

Eighteen years on, and still going. Last year was hard; however, this year seems to have picked up, especially the enquiries and quotes.

People are slowly starting to spend a little on their biggest investment again, which makes for happier times, for everyone.

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49

M E E T

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E X P E R T S

M E E T

T H E

EXPERTS

Erin Kennedy. syvonsyp What does syvonsyp stand for? The acronym syvonsyp stands for Share your Voice on Share your Platform.

see which enticing offer tempts your tastebuds – the options are endless!

What is syvonsyp? An online advertising platform that allows the business owner to interact with their customers on a daily basis, via short (around 60 second) smartphone or webcam uploads (syvs).

There is no membership process for the consumer – access to all daily syvs is unlimited and free.

In their syv, the business will relay interesting/ useful information regarding their line of work and offer a discounted or free product or service.

The customer simply mentions the deal and syvonsyp to redeem it.

Who can use syvonsyp? This platform caters to all businesses – consider the opportunity to preview tradies before hiring, schools before relocating, hairdressers before trialling, real estate agents before buying a house, or cafés to

50 coffs coast focus.

Subscriptions start at $22 p/m for one person.

To give every business owner the freedom to try before you buy, we’re presenting the platform for free from 21 March – 31 May – just send an email to erin@syvonsyp.com with your name, business, and area, and we’ll register your free trial period immediately.

How can we find out more? Please find us at www.syvonsyp.com – follow on Twitter, or click on the syv Com Ideas tab to give business reviews, discuss your ideas about syvonsyp, and tell us how you make your community a better place (boast away)!

Battery World Coffs Harbour is really proud of their team and service, and this was recently rewarded at the Park Beach and Homebase Awards.

They are the 2013 recipient of the Excellence in Customer Service Award, along with being a Finalist in Retailer of the Year and Outstanding Sales Performance.

Who is Battery World, and what can

from alarms to watches and hundreds of

Before you choose a battery, spend some

– www.batteryworld.com.au

they offer? Every year, thousands of new

products in between, you'll find the battery

time and make a list of all the accessories

Sometimes it's easier to talk to someone

products are introduced to the market that

you're looking for and great customer

you need to run PLUS your motor’s horse

rely on batteries or portable power. At some

service at your local Battery World store.

power, so your local Battery World expert

stage, these batteries will wear out. When

Looking for the power to get you there

can help you determine the correct battery.

they do, our lives literally stop! The growing

and back AND enjoy all your onboard

We stock a large range of low maintenance

needs of the Australian replacement battery

accessories? Only specialty marine batteries

and maintenance-free marine starting and

market led to the creation of Battery World.

have been designed with today’s boating in

deep cycle batteries including Century

Since 1997 Battery World has become the

mind.

Marine, Yuasa, Seamate, Deka, Optima

largest and most comprehensive Australian

A well maintained marine battery can assist

Marine, Lifeline and Odyssey, ensuring you

retail franchise in the category, stocking

with powering all your onboard accessories

get the right battery for specific needs.

Mathew’s Top Tip: remember during the

advanced technology products and smaller,

such as digital compasses, lights, console

Can people wander in and find out

off-season to keep your battery in peak

more portable battery solutions. Battery

equipment, radios, fridges, powered

more? If you have the old battery that you

condition and power by connecting a

World are the Battery Experts – the right

anchors, GPSs etc while giving you peace of

need to replace, you can search for it on our

maintenance charger. That way your boat,

battery first time. With a huge range of

mind that you’ll have enough power to start

catalogue by using the search facility in the

jet ski or leisure craft will be ready to go

batteries and accessories for everything

your trip back.

'find my battery' tab located on our website

when you are.

by phoning 13 17 60. Wherever you are in Australia, if there's a store near you the number will go directly to your local store.

We are also open 7 days a week and are happy to talk though all your battery needs, so feel free to pop in and visit our in store experts at Park Beach Homebase.

coffs coast focus 51

M E E T

T H E

E X P E R T S

OUR DIGGERs' STORIES ARE WORTH HEARING. In the lead-up to ANZAC Day, Australian Hearing speaks to World War II digger and Bellingen resident, Alfred Martin, about his experience serving in the Army and how war has taken its toll on his hearing.

A

t 93 years old, Alfred is still as sharp as a tack and able to articulate many stories from his time during 1944 to 1946, when he fought alongside more than 30,000 Australians on the South Pacific island of Bougainville.

“I was on Bougainville for 444 days as a Lance Corporal in the 57th and 50th battalion, serving with the infantry,” explains Alfred.

“The gunfire affected my hearing. We didn’t get any equipment, nor were we told to protect our ears. According to the Army, all you had to do was survive!” says Alfred.

“My job was a ‘jeep jockey’, ferrying supplies and ammunition to the troops, and I also took the dead from the battlefield back for burial. It was very dangerous work.

“As shells landed, you dived into holes to save your life. The shovel was our most important tool. That’s why we are called ‘diggers’.”

Alfred recalls being "one of the loneliest soldiers in the army" at the time, as he

52

coffs coast focus.

wasn’t sent home with the rest of his battalion but was required to stay on the island for another year to "clean up", take out explosives and re-bury the dead.

been able to get my hearing aids, and now I have a new FM system so I can hear better in meetings, watching TV and whenever there is background noise.”

“The only way you can get over an experience like war is to talk about it … after all, if you don’t communicate, where do you get in life?” adds Alfred.

“I’m still in my own home and Australian Hearing organised a doorbell with a light, as well as a special smoke alarm that vibrates and flashes. The battery lasts 10 years, which is amazing!”

Critical to our ability to communicate and stay connected with the world is our hearing, and fortunately for many diggers like Alfred, help is at hand.

Australian Hearing was established in 1947 to help veterans returning with hearing damage from noise exposure during their war service.

Today Australian Hearing continues to support our diggers and their families by providing a full range of hearing services and can assist eligible veterans access a range of listening devices free through the DVA Rehabilitation and Appliances Program.

“Having hearing aids has certainly made life better,” says Alfred.

“Through Australian Hearing I have

Karina Morrison, Manager of Australian Hearing, explains that with the new hearing technology now available free to eligible veterans, there’s really no excuse for not hearing well.

“It is such a privilege to hear the stories these men and women share from their experiences in the armed forces and provide them with the help and devices they need to enjoy good hearing,” says Karina. “We encourage all veterans and their families to call us to find out more about the hearing services and listening devices available to them.”

For more information, call 6652 0700 or visit the Australian Hearing Centre at 2 Lyster St, Coffs Harbour.

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Who is Quadrant Australia?

After more than 30 years in the business, Quadrant Australia continue to grow and as a unique and specialised travel business they’re proud to offer local service and competitive pricing.

Meet the team

Kerry Moss HONG KONG – A CITY OF SURPRISES

A

n overnight flight to Hong Kong, and we landed in the city that must never sleep. The Hong Kong skyline was filled with city buildings and bright lights. I was mesmerised as I meandered through the city streets. Within 10 metres, we stumbled upon an authentic Peking Duck restaurant, complete with ducks strung proudly in their window. My memories of visiting this city all came rushing back. After an amazing dinner in a restaurant where we were the only Westerners, I rolled down the stairs and up the street. I was surprised that at 11 o’clock at night, the market stalls were alive with action, and it was easy to fill my spare suitcase with presents.

The following morning, we set off to pray with the largest Buddha in the Southern Hemisphere …Yes, in Hong Kong! After a local bus and a glass-bottomed cable car ride, we arrived in time for lunch with the local monks, complete with an afternoon prayer session.

The vegetarian offerings were generous and wholesome, and it got me thinking that Hong Kong as a destination on its own really was surprising me. My evening boat ride to a small fishing village for dinner with some locals who generously offered up their local delicacy was an honour; but one I would need to toughen up for. The river where the locals were bathing was the very same river that they just caught my jellyfish. The very same one that they were now proudly presenting to me on a plate!

How bad can it be? Right? As I swallowed my first mouthful and tried to tell myself it’d be just like chicken, I realised it wasn’t so bad. It wasn’t so good either, but it’d be a great story to tell my grandchildren.

Having always wanted to see pandas, and being so close to mainland China, the next day I planned a trip into China to see if we could find these endangered creatures. I

quickly realised, it wasn’t the pandas that were endangered; it was English speaking customs officials who were nowhere to be seen. So after a 3 hour delay in our adventure, I realised that perhaps finding pandas in the wild would need to wait until my next trip. We made our way by ferry and coach to the Guangzhou zoological gardens, where they proudly have 3 pandas on display. Granted, it may have been easier for me to visit our very own pandas in the Adelaide Zoo, but it somehow felt more authentic pushing the local school children out of the way, to get up and close and personal with pandas in China.

Kerry Moss ( R ) – Having travelled to more than 42 countries across 5 continents, Kerry’s either been there or it’s next on her list. Her favourite holiday destination is Peru, but with some exciting plans coming up in the future stay tuned; it’s sure to change. With 20 plus years’ experience across the country in tourism and travel, Quadrant Australia has provided her the platform to pool all the skills together in one place and provide friendly and knowledgeable service on a wide variety of destinations.

Jeanette Lapham ( L ) – After an interesting and diverse career across Australia, Jeanette chose to call the Coffs Coast her home. With diverse experience across luxury products specialising

in outstanding service and offering unique destinations, Jeanette has specialised knowledge that you only get after sharing a campfire with the locals in the Kimberley. Jeanette offers detailed itinerary planning and attention to detail to find the perfect travel solution for you. Visit us after her African Safari later this year to hear the latest directly from the Masai Mara in Kenya.

Vanessa Friel (middle) – After growing up in Western Australia, living and working in the UK, Vanessa settled on the Coffs Coast. As a retail travel specialist, Vanessa has her finger on the pulse about latest specials and the hottest destinations. She’s new to the Quadrant team but with valuable travel industry experience, Vanessa’s country attitude and city knowledge mean she’s the ideal person to plan your next holiday with.

Quadrant Australia are located in C.ex Coffs, Vernon Stand and offer friendly, local and professional service to help you plan your next holiday.

The next few days went by in a whir of activity and excitement. I spent hours at the jade markets talking to the locals about the different characteristics of the ornamental stone and made a few purchases to add to my already bulging suitcase. We stumbled upon a local bird market, where elderly locals made the daily trek in from their homes to proudly display their beautiful songbirds in intricate wooden bird cages. On our way through the back streets, we came across a flower market of gigantic proportions housing every possible colour and shaped flower that I had ever imagined (and even some that I hadn’t!)

My week in Hong Kong came to a close, as I purchased my very first Jimmy Choo handbag in the modern and decadent shopping arcades. I felt proud that Hong Kong had delivered what she had promised me. Hong Kong had given me a taste of everything. I had shopped 'til I dropped, tasted some amazing (and surprising food), got an understanding of religious beliefs that were different to my own and got the feeling that not only were the local people happy to see Australian tourists, but they had so much more to offer if I had more time. I’ll be back, Hong Kong and this time, I’ll be prepared! coffs coast focus 53

s o c i a l s c e n e with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs Below. Vicki Bennett, Angela Howe-smith , Damyon Wolfe,Lisa Johnson, Belle Hill, Erin Kennedy, Greg Hill, Mimi and Mark Johnston

Below. Gillian Simpson, Katie Mitchell, Annette Perry, Emma Barnes and Liz Philpott

Above. John Harrison, Simone McCredie, Gordon Saunders, Craig Budden, Lachlan Hockings, Grant Birdie

Below.

Bruce Kane and Sian Bignall

Above. Robert Partridge, Fiona McCredie, Deane Roberts Left. Liz Keen (ABC PRODUCER) Shane Rennie (TOUR MANAGER) Bronwyn Kidd (FESTIVAL DIRECTOR )

Above. Leanne Cundy, Debbie Cooper, Yvonne Lawlor and Nancy Marshall.

Social/scene.

I really love the autumn weather. Goodbye humidity and hello to relaxing outside in the milder evenings and enjoying dining alfresco minus the mozzies and the sweltering heat! group of us stopped off at the jetty strip and treated ourselves to an early feast at the fabulous Fiasco’s. We were having an early dinner because we were on our way to the Coffs Harbour Jetty Memorial Theatre. The bar was open, and guests got to enjoy a drink or two before sitting down to enjoy a blast of spectacular short films. It was, of course, the 23rd International Short Film Festival, 2014 Flikerfest.

Also showing at Jetty Theatre, CHATS Productions inc. is presenting the delightful play Quartet, by Ronald Harwood and directed by Shirley Barnett. Friends of ours had seen the movie and have absolutely raved about the play! Gather a group of friends and make a night of it.

For bookings, call 6652 8088.

Erin Kennedy and a group of friends were out to celebrate down at the ever popular ‘Sarong’ restaurant and Bar on First Avenue in Sawtell. The crew were enjoying some fabulous Thai food and definitely having a whole heap of fun. We snapped them while they were enjoying the launch of Erin’s brand New Business SYVONSYP, which is a new media platform to promote your business.

The stunning surrounds of Bonville Golf Resort’s Flooded Gums Restaurant once again became the venue for the Annual Biggest Morning Tea Fashion Parade, which raises funds for The Cancer Council. Hosted by Kirsten Howton, Michael Crossland and Anne Blair will share the 54 coffs coast focus.

MC role. never ceases to satisfy us on the entertainment level, The charity function will consist of a showcase of that’s for sure! winter fashion from Seasons Boutiques and stunning We arrived at the new location for the bigger and jewels and millinery from House of Le Dãin better Carpet Court for their packed to the Designs. There will also be a sneak max launch party. Guests were spilling peek of a couple of the select range out onto the balcony area enjoying of elegant long gowns that will drinks and canapés and enjoying entry soon be available at House of Le the celebrations of the evening.

This event was at our Dãin. To dazzle up the morning, Store owners Fiona and Simon free and staged ul North there will also be a collechave just arrived home from very own beautif tanic Bo Coast Regional tion of beautiful fine pieces Hamilton Island, where they stival is Garden. The Fe from Parry’s Jewellers. Expect won best National Store award. t ou d an absolute stan e and delicious food, raffles, lucky Pacific Bay Resort was the is w t entertainmen brancy, vi ith balloons, door prizes and lots venue for the latest ETC lunch. w g tin rs was bu cased ow sh d of giveaways. Tickets available 160 guests enjoyed guest an ur lo co cultural at all stores involved. speaker Janine Allis, who shared the Coffs Coast diversity.”

The Coffs Harbour Multicultural her success story, Boost Juice.

Harmony Festival, which is now in Amongst those attending were a its eighth year, has extended to a full group of high school students who weekend. This event was entry free and were completing business studies in Years staged at our very own beautiful North Coast 10 to 12. Chris and Kerry Hines from UNREAL Regional Botanic Garden. The Festival is an absolute Estate, who attended this luncheon, commented stand out entertainment wise, and was bursting with that Janine Allis was extremely inspirational and defivibrancy, colour and showcased the Coffs Coast’s nitely down to earth! Great event. cultural diversity. The Coffs Harbour City Council presIf you would like FOCUS to attend your next event, ents this festival, along with the Multicultural Reference please contact melly@focusmag.com.au Group. Sunday was the day which we chose to attend, Carole, which was actually the main festival day. Our Coffs Coast Le Dãin Designs.

“

coffs coast focus 55

E d u c a t i o n

+

T r a i n i n g

& TRAINING

Coffs Harbour Senior College When asked why they chose Coffs Harbour Senior College, students consistently refer to the wonderful relationship they have with their teachers. They appreciate the opportunity for a fresh start in an environment where they are responsible for their learning.

Not wearing a uniform rates highly, as is the freedom they experience on campus.

The wide range of subject choices and connection to SCU and TAFE allows flexibility in both delivery and duration of their individualised study programs. The state of the art facilities allow students to have a mixture of vocational education and academic courses if they so desire. The HSC results reflect the significant academic improvement each student achieves over

Skills Training A Boost for Business the time they spend at the college. Students report they are better prepared for university, as they have already experienced two hour lessons and an adult learning environment.

The students are attracted to the music, drama, art and dance programs. They are also pleased to find they can continue with an extensive sports program and be involved in a wide range of extra-curricular activities.

The wireless network across the campus ensures students can stay connected. Student learning is supported by digital course material which is accessible 24/7 on a secure website. Students are encouraged to use technology to enhance their 21st century learning skills.

So what do the students say? “Thank you for making my final years so rewarding�.

Training and education options have changed significantly in recent years and people, as well as businesses, are reaping the benefits. An apprenticeship or traineeship presents the perfect opportunity for people of all ages to gain a nationally recognised qualification, while gaining paid work experience in the field.

HVTC North Coast Regional Coordinator Jane Wayland is encouraging more school leavers or those exploring re-training possibilities, to consider this option.

For businesses, apprenticeships and traineeships also provide a flexible and cost-effective staffing solution and a way to manage skills shortages. “HVTC North Coast meets individual business needs with tailored solutions. We can save employers time and money by recruiting the right person and organising the apprentice or trainee’s pay and suitable training,� Ms Wayland said. “HVTC links potential with opportunity and as a result of our ongoing advice, mentoring and support, our apprenticeship and traineeship

“An apprenticeship or traineeship combines fulltime or part-time employment with structured training allowing people to learn and develop skills while getting paid,� she said.

completion rates are well above the national average.�

HVTC North Coast is a division of HVTC (Hunter

“Skills have the power to change lives and for young school leavers and job seekers, apprenticeships and traineeships can set them up with a job and career for life.�

Valley Training Company) – Australia’s oldest and largest group training company.

For more information about HVTC North Coast, call 6652 4566 or visit www.hvtc.com.au

SKILLS CHANGE LIVES CONNECTING PEOPLE AND BUSINESS WITH OPPORTUNITY We are committed to providing the best solutions for apprentices, trainees and employers.

p &ULL TIME APPRENTICESHIPS p &ULL TIME AND PART TIME TRAINEESHIPS p 3CHOOL BASED OPTIONS p )NDIGENOUS p /NGOING MENTORING AND SUPPORT p 0ROVEN RECRUITMENT PROCESS

We value safety 3AFETY IS A MAJOR FOCUS IN OUR SELECTION INDUCTION AND ONGOING TRAINING OF (64# APPRENTICES AND TRAINEES 7E WORK CLOSELY WITH OUR (OST %MPLOYERS TO ENSURE OUR APPRENTICES AND TRAINEES ARE SAFETY FOCUSED

p 0ERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

Call us today

02 6652 4566

northcoast.hvtc.com.au

56 coffs coast focus.

.#?##&? X ?-!2#(

We will look after you!

TRAINING FOR EVERYONE

'IVXMÂżGEXI -: MR 8VEMRMRK ERH %WWIWWQIRX 8%) %HHVIWW %HYPX 0ERKYEKI 0MXIVEG] 2YQIVEG] 7OMPPW 8%)002

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Other accredited courses available: Cert IV Frontline Management BSB40812 Certificate III in Fitness Certificate III in Education Support Food Safety Supervisors Traffic Control, First Aid and Asthma Plus many more

Call Andrew on 02 6691 9900 or text 0437442182

Email: training@keyemployment.com.au keyemployment.com.au/training

find us on facebook

Level 2, 43 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour (opposite the Memorial Pool)

E d u c a t i o n

+

T r a i n i n g

& TRAINING

Youth Directions The Education Centre The Education Centre has been helping students in the Coffs Harbour area for almost 10 years.

During this time hundreds of students have achieved improvements in their academic performance.

Student achievements are varied; where one student may be pleased about improving their marks in exams by 20, another may be absolutely overjoyed that they can now read and understand the text. Yet another may be just happy that they can discuss their ideas with their tutor and feel confident that they can achieve substantial assessment results.

Tuition, in our minds, means help with something that has been missed or not understood or the clarifying of ideas that have not quite come together or yet the honing of high level skills to enable the learner to reach for the top. It is, put simply, the help required to reach one’s goals.

Many parents say, “Oh, we will just see how they go; then, if they can’t cope, we will go and get help.”

We say, “Why not let us answer their questions now, when they ask, so that they don’t get to the stage where they ‘can’t cope’?”

Let’s help them to be winners, ensure that they are achieving and being confident members of their world.

The results our students have achieved are only possible because of the high level of ability, dedication and caring of our teachers and staff.

May 1st is our Ten Year Anniversary: come join us to celebrate – past students more than welcome.

58 coffs coast focus.

Fun + Food + Etiquette Impress for Success is the School of Etiquette & Image training on the Coffs Coast, run by Gina Szary and her professional team.

Impress for Success offers a New Program FUN + FOOD + ETIQUETTE. The newly developed program FUN + FOOD + ETIQUETTE is a workshop specially designed for girls and boys from 8-11 years.

This program helps children to understand the importance of Hygiene, Health and Nutrition and includes food preparation, food service and basic etiquette appropriate to the age group.

Through interactive and hands-on activities children will prepare, serve and eat a variety of different meal types.

Girls and boys will learn and experience in a fun and active atmosphere the importance of: • Basic food hygiene • Healthy food preparation • Eating a balanced diet • Etiquette appropriate to the age group What to eat, Why, When and How ...

This unique workshop will be held each Saturday over a five week period at Sunny Hill Retreat Bonville.

The workshop is a perfect gift for your child, grandchild, niece or nephew.

Classes of small groups of 6-8 students only.

Gift vouchers available.

Book in early to save your place.

With Youth Unemployment at worrying levels, young people keen to plan a career pathway and enter the workforce should consider the following: • Employers surveyed in 2012 by the Federal Government indicated that the most important personal traits and qualities lacking in suitable job applicants were good communication, motivation and enthusiasm.

• There is a strong relationship between educational attainment and employment outcomes. Unemployment rates for those who have; • not completed Year 12 = 21.2 % • completed Cert I or Cert II but not completed Yr 12 = 23.8% • completed Year 12 = 10.8 % • completed Cert III or Cert IV = 7.8% • completed Diploma = 5.8% • completed Bachelor Degree = 3.5% • The largest employing industries on the Mid North Coast are • Retail - 15%, • Health Care and Social Assistance - 14 % • Construction, Education and Training, Accommodation and Food Services Industries all - 9%.

• Approximately 30% of jobs are formally advertised.

• Almost two thirds of all jobs are found through networks, word of mouth and self-marketing by applicants.

• Volunteering for reputable organisations is a way to build networks, contacts and skills.

Youth Directions and Directions Plus offer services to assist with career planning and finding employment.

E d u c a t i o n

+

T r a i n i n g

& TRAINING

Learning opportunities at Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery

Back to School Coffs Harbour Community Preschool is celebrating the completion of 60 years of early childhood education, and invites the community to its ‘Back to Preschool Day’.

Running from 10am - 2pm on Saturday 5 April, the family fun day will include face painting, barbecue lunch, jumping castle (all for a small fee) and a free children’s show by Animals Rock at 11am.

Preschool Director Linda Iveson is encouraging past parents, staff, students and the general public to come along and enjoy the activities. “We are so proud to reach such a significant milestone, educating children for over 60 years. Many people in the community have fond memories of our preschool, and we are now seeing the children and grandchildren of previous families attending our preschool.”

Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is not only a venue that offers visual and audio stimulation, fun and enjoyment for the senses, it also aims to engage a wide variety of audiences through its permanent and seasonal education and public programs. respite centres. This increases access to hese include outreach access the Gallery for people who experience programs to residential care, mobility or transport difficulties. respite centres and The Gallery also takes schools, plus art interesting artworks appreciation for people and museum objects with Alzheimer’s l ia Spec n io out to aged care and their carers, at uc ed e th at s facilities and respite programs for the m ra prog so al e ar ry centres for the vision impaired, le al G e residents to discuss activities for conducted for th e residents of thes and appreciate. children, adults, w centres when ne Participants are artists, art exhi bitions are encouraged to appreciators and set up.” share their thoughts, music lovers. experiences and So, what’s on offer? memories with each Over the forthcoming other. These visits help to build exhibition period, the Gallery a sense of community amongst is offering a variety of programs the residents. The residents also gain for school and tertiary education confidence and begin to re-engage with students. It also caters for TAFE, U3A, the community as a whole. vision impaired and special interest Most of these programs are regular groups for special floor talks. scheduled events, but single visits are Collection Outreach for Low Mobility also possible.

Groups is an education program Special education programs at the available for all community groups Gallery are also conducted for the finding access to the Gallery difficult. residents of these centres when new Works from the collection are taken to exhibitions are set up. aged care facilities, school groups and

T

“

Coffs Harbour Community Preschool began in 1953 in Harbour Drive (then known as High Street) and moved to its current location in 1986, catering for 3 to 5 year olds. Photos from the past and present will be on display, and families are invited to bring along any memories or stories to share. “We invite everyone to come celebrate with us and look forward to reconnecting with families and community and preparing for another 60 years!”

Creative Conversations is an art appreciation program specifically for people with Alzheimer’s Disease and their carers. It is held on a regular basis at the Gallery, and new participants are always welcome. The meeting involves an informal discussion of the exhibitions, usually followed by a social cup of tea.

Margaret Olley Studio The outreach program also includes trips to other regional galleries – and the next trip is to the very recently opened Margaret Olley Studio at Tweed Regional Gallery on 2 May. It will include a guided tour of the Studio and gallery exhibits by Tweed Gallery staff. Bookings must be made by Friday 11 April, and places are limited.

For more information or to book, go to www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/ regionalgallery or call 6648 4861.

How can I take part in the Gallery’s Programs?

Bookings are essential and can be made via the Education and Public Programs Officer on 6648 4861 or Gallery Reception on 6648 4863. coffs coast focus 59

& TRAINING

Cook Healthy to Win Big

F

orget My Kitchen Rules; this year’s biggest cooking battle is going to be the Coffs Kids Chef Challenge!

Once again, Coffs Coast Growers’ Market is celebrating Healthy Kids Week from 15 - 17 April and, as part of the fun and activities, Coffs for Kids and Go4Fun are getting together with Rainbow Cycles and Kenwood to make the 2014 Challenge the best yet.

Kids from the Coffs Coast will have the chance to put some local chefs through their paces by challenging them to create a healthy lunchbox that they would love – using some of their least favourite ingredients. Yewch!

Local Chefs Joel McCulla, Neville Mott and Stefano Mazzina are eager to see if they can please these junior food critics.

Joel from Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar will be

In 2011 Youth Directions gained a new industry champion to this program, Joel McCulla, of Zulu’s

Future Chef C H A L L E N G E

Restaurant & Bar, at the Best Western Zebra Motel. Joel saw the merit of the program and enhanced it, bringing crazy and exciting cooking styles and ingredients into the class room with some truly captivating demonstrations.

W

hile also bringing some

the Coffs Harbour Region, will battle it out to

realism to the conversations

find the first Regional Future Chef Champion.

with the students, Joel has

They will be bringing to the battle, an

always been concerned with

Autumnal Dish, focusing on the great produce

the 75% drop out rate of first year apprentice

that is available in season. There in both the

chefs, and he decided to ensure that the

Junior Division (years nine and 10) and Senior

students were exposed to the truths of the industry as well as the exciting glamour that often gets televised.

This new combination, of champion and program leads to some truly inspiring interest in the Future Chef program, and so now in 2014 the Future Chef Challenge is born. This

Division one student will be found victorious.

These two champions will then come together, with their two dishes, and some more that they come up with, to create their very own degustation dinner, to be held at Zulu’s later on in the season.

year the students of the Coffs Harbour area

It is a truly exciting time for hospitality

will not only cook against each other in their

students, and only the beginning of what

classrooms, but they will compete against

Future Chef has in store for the Coffs Harbour

each other on a regional level thanks to both

area, as there will be a team event held later

the C.Ex Coffs and the Australian Good Food

on in the year, focusing on local produce as

Guide Youth Development Program.

well. More details and current information can

So over the 7th and 8th of April at the C.Ex,

be found at ...

Junior and Senior Victors, from schools around

www.futurechefchallenge.com

60 coffs coast focus.

particularly keen, as he’ll be defending his title from last year’s event.

Three lucky kids will win the chance to be judges on the day and not only get to sample some of the great food, but also have the chance to win some awesome prizes.

First prize is a Specialized Hardrock Bike from Rainbow Cycles and a Kenwood Multipro (total prize value $950). There are also prizes for second and third place.

There will be heaps of other FREE activities during the week, include Zumba, Yoga and Storytime reading on Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 April from 10am - noon in City Square.

To enter the Coffs Kids Chef Challenge, all you have to do is get Mum and Dad’s help and go to www.coffsforkids.com and upload a photo of a healthy lunchbox that you have created.

coffs coast focus 61

APRIL 2014

WITH TERRI

The Silly Season It’s the silly season again at Love & Kisses. Owner Judy Sheehan has just been on another huge buying spree at the autumn trade fairs, and trolley loads of new stock are rolling in every day. Judy says she’s had so many deliveries of new jewellery that she can’t find time to get it all out into the shop, so if you’re looking for something special, do be sure to ask – there are boxes of great new stuff stashed everywhere!

It’s nearly time to think of Easter, and Judy’s gone overboard this year with everything from hand painted keepsake eggs, to painted tin eggs that open to hold a tiny gift, to ‘Bashful Bunny’ – the softest cuddliest rabbit you’ll ever meet ... (and lots of other stuff that Courteney says she shouldn’t have ordered. Call in and check out her buying triumphs and mistakes!)

So when you need a little treat for yourself, like earrings or a scarf for $9.95 or a fun new watch for $20, something out-of-the-ordinary for a friend, an unusual book, or a christening or new-baby gift ... give yourself ten minutes to check out the quirkiest range of gifts and surprises you’ll find under one roof, and enjoy the Love & Kisses experience.

You’ll be glad that you did.

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

September 24 - October 23

With none of the planets aligning with Gemini this month, you could be vulnerable in feeling neglected or unappreciated. Avoid entertaining thoughts of what you believe others may be thinking of you as this could make matters worse. Instead relish in your individuality, and only entertain loving thoughts of yourself.

Ruby shatters negativity and leaves us feeling safe and comfortable in our reality.

Avoid being unkind to yourself with critical thoughts, especially insulting self-degradation.

With Mars in Libra, life’s challenges could arouse irritation; coupled with your North Node’s influence deciding what your life’s purpose is all about can easily leave you feeling stuck or frustrated if you are treading water at present.

Simply have a plan.

Amethyst is great for connecting to our higher qualities and life’s purpose.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

Avoid making any life changing decisions regarding matters of the heart until the 6th, as you will be vulnerable at wanting to run if everything is not perfect. These feelings should calm until the 23rd, and from then until the 25th, you can anticipate a need for romance and acknowledgement. Even if it comes from positive thoughts, you will feel validated.

Garnet will enhance your passion for living and self-worth.

You will benefit by not expecting others to live up to your expectations where love and matters of the heart are concerned. Try to have no expectations from friends either, as you could set yourself up for some big disappointments this month. Instead look at how beautiful and soft your emotional nature is and how blessed you are to be a Piscean.

Citrine shatters negative energy; wear some whilst entertaining.

October 24 - November 22

Listen to your inner voice, especially with regard to achieving the things in life that will make you feel good and happy. It’s the magic of living that will grant the most satisfaction this month, as Saturn’s influence may easily lead you to fearing the unknown and inhibit the joys of the unknown. Connect to your inner child and help them to feel excited by the mysteries of life.

Clear quartz enhances our positive energy carry some.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

November 23 - December 21

Relationships are likely to be a major influence this month. With Venus entering Pisces on the 6th, the need to be feeling wanted and in love may torment you if it’s not happening. All is not lost, as this is a good time to reflect and look inward to identify any recurring patterns that may have inhibited your previous success in matters of the heart, so the future can be different.

Rose Quartz is a powerful self-loving crystal; it will assist you loving yourself more.

From the 9th until the 11th, you may experience heightened emotions and then a feeling of relaxation and an easygoing attitude should persist until the 20th. Set some long term goals or play with your talents, as this will satisfy the need to fulfill your destiny or life’s purpose, which will be strong towards the end of the month.

Turquoise is great for self-confidence and personal power.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

You can expect a cruisy month until the 24th, when you may be feeling a little vulnerable with Venus entering Taurus. Avoid being stubborn with relationships around this time, as this could interfere with your relaxed and carefree attitude and feelings of low esteem could arise.

Clear Quartz amplifies a happy mood; hold some to set fresh goals.

62 coffs coast focus.

With Jupiter’s influence in Cancer, your thoughts could easily torment you with matters of the bigger picture in life, leaving you feeling trapped or stuck in the present. Be kind to yourself by setting some goals so the future has a plan, and live in the moment to reconnect with the simple joys at hand.

Citrine attracts abundance and shatters negativity carry some.

This month would prove a favourable time for journeying. You are not likely to be faced with any situations that leave you feeling overwhelmed. Plan lots of social events on your calendar and enjoy light-hearted fun and laughter.

New friends will be drawn to you this month, as your inner thoughts will be reflected.

Clear Quartz will help maintain strong positive thoughts.

Heightened emotions can be something to look forward to from the 18th until the 21st, and the rest of the month may feel carefree and easygoing. You will benefit from setting some fresh goals and playing creatively with gifts or talents between social interactions. Avoid becoming too serious or working too hard, as this could easily make you feel a bit dull.

Turquoise assists in recognition of one’s higher purposes.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Until the 15th you may be heavily influenced by your morals and ethics but for the rest of the month, your challenge may lie in wanting to re-establish new ones. Stay grounded by participating in physical activities and have practical solutions on hand to combat any challenges.

Matters of the heart and family will offer solace.

Clear Quartz keeps us focused on positive outcomes; carry some.

FOUND ORIGINALS

VAST INTERIORS

India?" to which I reply, "Amazing, fantastic, intense, overwhelming, noisy with lots of curry!"

It's hard to really give an apt description of this incredible country.

so vintage so Vast, so YOU

Found, collected or refashioned our Indian originals will create a uniquely you space. We travel to exotic India to discover gorgeous one-of-a-kind pieces.

M

y first taste of India was the drive from Delhi's airport to our hotel in Greater Noida. Road markings were ignored, indicators never used, and the horns blared. It was all chaos, with camels, cows, horses, street vendors, rickshaws, trucks and cars all vying for a spot on the road. Not to mention our car, which was going the wrong way down a four lane highway. I nearly had a heart attack, but it was more of a, “I cannot believe I'm actually doing this”!

It was everything I had expected and more; if you have ever been to India, g One of our existin then you will know what en be s ha rs supplie I mean. If not, then work designing at rd ha imagine the busiest ch we new ranges , whi India. road in Sydney then in got to see while triple, quadruple the ers, especially the 106 s been This supplier ha the e nc traffic and add camels, (out of 450 staff) who si us g supplyin own gr s ha d cows, pigs, dogs, cell have been making Vast an g in beginn ” . st Va e phones blaring Bolproducts for 10 plus id gs on al lywood tunes, constant years. That's a massive hooting and overpower1,000 years of furniture ing smells ‘n’ exhaust fumes, experience! I have to say some animal excrement, incense and of the new dining tables designs are some spices – you've now sort of got an idea spectacular, and I can't wait for them to arrive of what India is like! later in the year into the store.

It was hard to focus on the real reason why I A new supplier which I just fell in love with was in India, but that was to work. When I was creates a beautiful range of timber furniture over there, the aim was to visit existing suppliwith thick tops, whole chunks of timber and ers and to try and find some new suppliers and natural crevices combined with an incredibly some new and exciting pieces of furniture for smooth and velvet like finish that is to die for. the store.

The beautiful and organic form of this furniOne of our existing suppliers has been ture I think will be that WOW factor that you hard at work designing new ranges, which look for, whether it’s a small accent piece or an we got to see while in India. This supplier has entire dining or bedroom set; I just can’t wait been supplying us since the beginning and for it to arrive! has grown alongside Vast. It was an amazing 153 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 experience to get to meet some of the work6652 1111.

“

Coffs Harbour Store 153 Orlando Street Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Find us NOW on facebook Vast Interior Coffs Harbour

Hours Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm Sat: 9am - 4pm Sun: 10am - 2pm

www.vastinterior.com.au

coffs coast focus 63

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Marketing

Michelle clarke Hair at the Promenade

M

ichelle, you’re a country girl at heart but have a real affinity with the Coast. Tell us a little bit about

your background?

I was raised in good old Dubbo and for as long as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a hairdresser. The poor old family French poodle, 'Fifi', can attest to this with the many 'practice hair styles' done on the dog over my younger years. I left school in year 10 and attended the Australian Academy of Hairdressing in Melbourne to learn the craft, before returning to the sticks. I worked in a local salon called ‘Martin Place’ for five years before marrying and moving to Mudgee, where family life took over and hairdressing became a part-time job.

In 2000, we sought a coastal change and chose Coffs Harbour to be our home and to be honest, I have never looked back. At the time I purchased a salon at the Beaumont Faye Centre. It was during my time there that I met Gayle Graham from Hair at the Promenade (recent ex-owner), as we used to do each other’s hair (being sole traders) and our friendship was born. When Beaumont Faye closed down, Gayle offered me the position at her well-established salon and the rest is history, as they say.

You’ve recently taken over ownership of Hair at the Promenade; tell us a little about your business?

This year I purchased the Hair at the Promenade salon from long-term owner Gayle, as she sets off on extended travel around Australia. As I have worked in this Salon for some 11 years, it’s only fitting to take over the ownership and continue the strong business that has been built.

For many, hair styles represent life change, and it’s really important that this is treated with compassion, care and understanding.

It’s also not usually a one off experience, with many loyal clients returning over decades. It’s probably the strongest form of loyalty around, 64 coffs coast focus.

so it’s important we put our clients' needs first. We always want them to leave happy and get exactly what they want. So our service is very personalised and friendly.

The salon is intimate, The days that and we really get to you don’t want u know our customers to get up, and yo the e ar as we offer a one-onmake yourself, ys of da e 'th one service, rather days I call e us ca be ', ce than some of the differen e th ly al er lit e ar bigger salons where they n ee tw difference be multiple people will program that sees me not.” achieving it and work on your hair. It’s a train in mornings and fabulous little spot at the work later in the evenings, Promenade that’s a relaxing so I prepare the week's meals and a peaceful place. Many of ahead so I can stay on track. our customers, both males and feThat way if all I need to do is throw males, enjoy the escape to the salon and in pre-cut vegetables and meat into a stirthe fun we have with our clients. We're fry with sauce, then I can manage that even also flexible with working hours to fit in when I’m super tired. with our clients' work or other demands, so I also think having a goal is fundamental they can always have great hair! to driving your life. I set out with an almost With any service based business, loyalty unachievable fitness goal, and I am very perplays a big role in growth and revenue. sistent and dedicated to achieving it. If I have What’s your experience with it? a goal, don’t stand in my way, because I’m Loyalty is probably the most important facet going to achieve it one way or another. of my business. It’s a personal experience Being in control of your work and life plays getting your hair styled, and one that requires a large role in finding balance. Everyone can the utmost trust and respect, after all you are make time; it may not be ideal and it may shaping the face of your client through the sneak into your morning sleep in, but it can hair style of their choice. So it’s really imporbe done. Gosh, I trained for a half Ironman, tant to listen and treat every client's wishes worked three jobs and still made the time with a personalised, insightful and profesto fulfil everything I needed to do. The days sional service. The way I look at it is that it’s that you don’t want to get up, and you make all about making your clients happy, because yourself, are the days I call 'the days of differthey are looking in mirror every morning, so ence', because they are literally the difference they should get the look and style that they between achieving it and not. I don’t expect want to start the day happy! to ever be on a podium or be a size 10, but I You are a master of the work/life balmake what I want happen because I want to. ance, leading a busy work life whilst also What drives you to achieve success in competing in triathlons and half Ironman your professional life? events. How do you master it all?

To be perfectly honest, making people Well, I’m very organised. I think that’s the happy motivates me to do my best and key. In my opinion, in order to master the achieve the success I desire. I also think it’s full work/life balance you almost need to important to work with likeminded and suppre-prepare everyday things in some ways. portive colleagues. I have been fortunate to For me, I have an intensive fitness training have a great friendship and working relation-

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ship with my colleague, Gayle, and this is and has been very important to creating a happy work place. Working in a physically small space you need to have a welcoming, friendly and good vibe between each other for clients to enjoy, because otherwise it will impact their experience.

With technology playing an important role in small business today, how has it impacted your business?

To date we really haven’t played in the technology world much, other than using iTunes and Spotify in the salon for our music!

So I am currently investing in a website and social media presence, as I feel that it’s important to have an online profile. I know myself that when I go to look for a new product or service, I search for it online first, so it makes good business sense to be online. We’re also looking at other more convenient ways for our clients to use our website for bookings.

So for those more technically savvy, booking an appointment online could be done easily.

For others, we are still a phone call away.

As for Social Media, we are going to use Facebook to showcase some of the hair styles we have done and the great fun we have in the salon. We’re always baking goodies to fundraise for some great cause, so I think the more we can get the word out the better connection we’ll have with our clients and even new clients.

What’s your life motto?

'Everything happens for a reason'.

Thanks Michelle.

Self Managed Super – Avoiding the Pitfalls A number of our clients either have or are contemplating a Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF). We thought it would be valuable to talk to Brett Martin from Bridges Financial Services about the opportunities and pitfalls this type of fund presents.

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hen is an appropriate time to set up a SMSF? To make it cost effective, you should have an appropriate level of funds. The generally accepted number is around $300,000. Having said that, it depends on your circumstances. For example, a small business owner might set up a fund to purchase a commercial property and pay their SMSF the rent rather than lease the premises.

So, what are the advantages of a SMSF? Control is the key. As trustee of your own SMSF you ultimately control where or how the assets are invested. You also have a greater variety of investment choices and your scope of investment type is wider e.g. commercial property, residential property, art, stamps, coins … you name it.

However, there is a definite push from the ATO to discourage the more ‘exotic’ types of investments through more onerous legislation.

Another advantage is that you can now borrow within a SMSF. Although this can also be a pitfall, if not structured in the right way.

Speaking of pitfalls, what are the dangers in moving to a SMSF? If your fund is deemed to be non-compliant by the ATO, the maximum penalty that can be applied is 46.5% of the fund’s assets.

So it is important that trustees are aware of their obligations and the rules they are operating under.

Another pitfall is that SMSFs are regulated by the ATO and not the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) who regulate mainstream superannuation funds. Therefore, should a SMSF be the victim of fraud or theft, unlike an APRA regulated super fund which is eligible for compensation, a SMSF is not.

From an advisers perspective what we see is that

trustees often think they can do it themselves and ‘beat the market’. However, unfortunately the reality is often the reverse as many trustees just don’t have the time or inclination to follow investment markets closely. All too often I will see SMSFs with cash levels that are too high with poor diversification across the different asset classes.

That’s a lot of pitfalls. What’s your advice for someone thinking of setting up a SMSF? My advice would be to get advice.

OK then, how do you choose the right financial advisor? Choosing an advisor is like choosing an accountant or a doctor. You look for someone who is well qualified and has experience.

Not all financial advisors have experience and qualifications in SMSF’s, so you need to choose wisely.

What’s the best way to find a good adviser?

Word of mouth is one way: talk to your friends, family or your accountant and ask them what they are doing or who they are using. In Australia we seem very reluctant to discuss our investment experiences, but we really should do it more. The better educated we are then the better decisions we’re going to make.

Managing your money is a complex business these days. That’s why MJ Accountants offers so much more than tax and compliance advice. We work with our clients to sharpen their business strategies and grow and manage their personal wealth.

Looking for business ideas, education and inspiration? Check out the Money with Melanie section of our website www.mjaccountants.com.au/welcome-money-melanie. Looking for an accountant to partner in your business and personal success? Give me a call on 6652 8788!

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C o f f s

H a r b o u r

H a r d w o o d s

Coffs Harbour Hardwoods – a family based, owned and operated company. The McCarthys have been supplying timber products nationally and internationally since the business was established by timber merchant and world champion axeman Ray McCarthy in 1961 ‌

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RAY MCCARTHY - WORLD CHAMPION.

WATERFRONT POLE TRIMMER IN THE ’80S

t h e ake us back to the beginning ...

Ray McCarthy was part of a long line of the McCarthys who were heavily involved in timber as far back as the 1850s, when pioneering and Cedar getting was a mainstay o of many North Coast families. Ray was a timber agent who was m mainly shipping timber across the Tasman for the New Zealand timber ttrade. When things started slowing down, it was evident that he n needed to find new markets, and in 1961 Coffs Harbour Hardwoods w was formed to concentrate more on the domestic market.

The company was able to find contracts from the RTA for bridges, PPort Authorities for piling and girders and also sleepers and poles for SState Rail.

Ray formed the company at a time when the timber industry was sstill an integral part of the port at Coffs Harbour – and had been

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b e g i n n i n g

since the beginning of the 20th Century. The port was finally closed in the 1970s. Some people may remember when the Jetty itself was a lot longer than what it is today and with large cranes on it to move cargo and passengers onto ships. Up until that time, Coffs Harbour Hardwoods was a major presence in the jetty area, exporting poles to New Zealand on coastal trader ships such as the Abel Tasman, which was a regular visitor to the then busy port. The final shipment to leave the port was a consignment of piles from Coffs Harbour Hardwoods bound for Indonesia.

Port redevelopments at Coffs Harbour in the 1980s saw the company relocate to the village of Glenreagh. Ray had acquired land, and this made the task of moving much simpler, with a larger site necessary to the future growth and expansion of the business.

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TREATMENT-POLE PLANT UNDER CONSTRUCTION

The McC arthy family have had ed a long and esteem r be history with tim th here on the Nor ” ...

SW N Co ast of

“ What was Glenreagh like in the early days?

How have you seen the region change?

Glenreagh was first settled in 1858, when John Campbell Shannon built 'Glen Righ' homestead on his sheep and cattle run.

Gold was discovered on upper Tallawudjah Creek in 1881, but the rush was short-lived and was over by the turn of the century. A few of the miners saw potential in the area and settled, cleared the land and with others, assisted in building a community.

Glenreagh became known as a timber town, rather than for its brief history of gold. Railways were spreading out over the state, and there was a demand for sleepers and girders. Bullock wagons well loaded travelled to South Grafton, from where the timber was sent by boat to Sydney. The main North Coast Line from

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Brisbane to Sydney wasn't completed until 1922.

Glenreagh was a town that had quite a number of sawmills around the district; these sawmills extended along the Glenreagh to Dorrigo rail line. Glenreagh was the main hub, with a siding at its rail station and a large locomotive turntable to orientate the engines for shunting and directional departing.

Ray McCarthy spent time in Glenreagh and decided to buy land in the area during the '80s. The land on Tallawudjah Creek Road is now the site of all the timber processing that the business carries out, which is adjacent to Tallawudjah Creek where the gold rush originally took place in the 1800s.

How many family members are involved with the business? What is your history

with timber?

The McCarthy family have had a long and esteemed history with timber here on the North Coast of NSW. The area has always been and still is one of Australia’s best for growing good quality hardwood timber.

This made it a common choice amongst early settlers in the area to make a living from.

Not only did Ray choose timber as a form of employment but so did many of his McCarthy relatives before him – who were not only successful in their everyday timber trade, but they were also very successful in the sport of wood chopping. Ray won a

world championship in 1957 and had in previous years won the prestigious Britstand Trophy at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. This trophy is presented to the most successful competitor in all the single handed events. Ray’s uncle, Manny McCarthy, was 23 when he won his first championship at the Sydney Show; he went on to win the world championship title 27 times and now has one of the world championship events named in memory of his feats and long service to wood chopping.

Coffs Harbour Hardwoods is now owned

by Ray McCarthy’s five sons John, Bill, Garry, Dennis and Harry. When Ray passed away

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in 2000, Garry took over as the General Manager of the business, which had now grown in size. These five brothers have helped the business grow into what it is today; they have poured well over 100 years of blood, sweat and tears into making it successful.

Of the five brothers who have grown the business, there are eight of their children: Scott, Shane, Rob, Neal, Martin, Phil, Ryan and more recently, Stacey involved in all facets of the business. We’ve tried to utilise the family across the business to ensure that there is a good spread of knowledge and skills in all the different departments.

The company has recently employed 3 members of the sixth generation of the McCarthy family, and it’s likely that this number will grow in the future. We hope to continue our family name with the business for many years to come.

How has the business developed in the past 50 years? What challenges has the industry faced, and how have you overcome these problems?

There have been numerous challenges over the years that the company has faced that have been difficult to say the least. In the 1970s, a large amount of power poles where being produced for the State Electricity Commission of Victoria; poles treated with creosote were later discontinued, giving a greater demand to de-sapped poles. The company made and installed its own desapping planer machine on our previous site to where it is today in Glenreagh; the site was at the Jetty foreshore in the now vacant area on your left as you head towards the

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marina at Coffs Jetty. This site would have been a dream to work at nowadays. However, due to the increase in demand from markets in Sydney and Melbourne, it was decided that this location would not be able to suit our needs well into the future, so we decided to move the business to Glenreagh, west of Coffs Harbour, to allow for a second planer machine and more space to store stock.

In the mid to late 1980s the company faced further challenges, with the market for de-sapped poles declining; CCA treated poles were now the more accepted product due to their lifespan, and so in 1989 the company commissioned a CCA treatment plant for treating its poles.

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We built our own sawmill in 199m4ore into a larger, to cut efficient way dges timber for bri” and wharves.

“ Although logistically it is a drive for most of us each day, the site at Glenreagh gives us a lot more freedom to grow. Further issues we faced stemmed from tighter government regulations and gaining access to timber that had become locked up in National Parks and other regulated areas.

We built our own sawmill in 1994 into a larger, more efficient way to cut timber for bridges and wharves. We have also faced challenges from things like bridges being converted from timber to concrete use. This had slowed down the demand for this product; we still produce this product for historical listed bridges, but we had to find new products to saw some of this timber into.

We have had to adapt with the times and in

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1996 we built a large board plant and timber drying kilns for doing dressed timber products like flooring and decking, as well as other profiles such as weatherboards and lining boards.

This upgrade to our company has made significant changes to what type of products we can create from our timber.

In the early 2000s the board plant was extended to twice its size, as well as two more drying kilns being installed. In 2013 we were given the green light from Clarence Valley Council to increase its size again.

Anther challenge we have faced was the need

for reliable transport of our products; in the early days it was getting the timber from the bush to the yard at the jetty foreshore, then from the yard onto the ships docked at the jetty. This then progressed to using trucks and the problems we faced getting our timber to a job on time. With the growth in the business and supply contracts we’ve had to increase our fleet of trucks to ensure that our products arrive when required. Today we have 10 semi-trailers and a rigid truck with a crane for local deliveries.

You employ many people … how would you describe the culture of your 90 strong team?

Yes, we do have a large number of staff – approximately 90 employees. With such a big processing facility, we need a lot of people to make it all happen. It’s almost like our own little town; there is a great culture here of people who want to see growth and innovation. We’re trying all the time to make our service better by making our operations more efficient; as the timber industry is so fragile, we need to ensure we do things correctly so we’re here for the long haul and our staff, their families and the local community are looked after. Our organisation is made up of several different areas that service all the different aspects

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COME AND SEE OUR FRIENDLY SALES STAFF

of our business. We have three core functions to the business that all supply timber for different purposes; there are specialised jobs for these sections along with our labourers, who all contribute greatly to our everyday operation. But with such a large amount of fixed and mobile machinery to make all of our operation work effectively, we have to have staff that can service, repair and operate some of this machinery. That is why we have our maintenance guys, mechanics, kiln operators, truck drivers, forklift operators, administration staff: all of these people are vital to making the business function, along with the people who are processing the timber.

What services do you offer both residentially

and commercially?

Our business is a diverse one; as I mentioned earlier, we have several different departments that all process timber in different forms and for different applications.

We have a number of contracts for commercial jobs that are for sectors like electricity distribution, waterways, roads, rail and general construction projects. This part of the business is our bread and butter; it gives us some security knowing that we have a contract to commit to; this all helps to manage what timber we cut and what we need to obtain from our logging crews, forestry or other suppliers and helps us forecast for a number of years what type of timbers we need to buy.

Some of the products these sectors use are things like power poles, which are usually supplied to the major power companies around Australia for the distribution of electricity, cross arms; they’re the pieces of timber that are on a power pole that the wires sit on. We supply large structural timbers for things like bridges, wharves and jetties; our timber has been used in previous years for projects like repairs on Coffs Jetty, Tathra Jetty on the south coast of NSW, K1 Winery – South Australia, Walsh Bay Development – Sydney, and Howard Smith Wharves Restoration – Brisbane. These are just some of the projects we’ve been involved in. These jobs generally require large pieces of timber that only a certain number of companies in Australia

are able to supply in locally grown hardwoods; that is our strength and keeps us at the top of the list when it comes to supply for the bigger projects.

We have recently also done a lot of commercial projects that are more on the smaller scale and are more for the visual aspect rather than the structural aspect or in some cases, both. A few years back we were able to acquire the services of Maree and Russell Landrigan, previously of Coramba Timbers; with their experience, it gave us the opportunity to start a joinery section in the business.This made us very diverse in what we can make with a piece of timber, whether it be a power pole or a small ‘wood turned’ timber handle.

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The new redevelopments at Coffs Central have a few of our jobs that we’ve supplied, such as the bench tops in the eatery or the large whale sculpture designed and manufactured by local artist Stefan Bruggisser. Our advantage over off the shelf timbers is that we can supply something unique that may not be available elsewhere and that we can make to suit the final application perfectly.

For the residential projects, we supply the standard items like hardwood flooring and decking in a range of species, grades and sizes.

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We can also supply all your other timbers like stairs, handrails, posts and something that has become a big trend now (due to shows like The Block) the feature wall. We have a big wholesale market in the capital cities, but we are now focusing our efforts on increasing what we can do for the local market here in Coffs and the surrounding areas. If we don’t have a product that suits what our customers want, then we are able to source from our distribution network of suppliers.

We are looking at opening up a specialised

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hardwood timber outlet in Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour in the not too distant future; it’s something that we realise is needed in Coffs Harbour to service builders and the local public. We aim to provide products that our customers want, so we will keep a good range of hardwood products in both structural and visually suitable timbers. We’re excited about this venture taking place and hope the community can support a locally owned business that likes to invest back into community groups and sporting organisations.

How important is considering the environment in your line of business?

The environment is very important to us; we understand that in an ever changing world it is important to develop and evolve into a business that accepts its environmental footprint should be kept to a minimum on our landscape. We are committed to sustainable forestry management and have had a long heritage of not only living and working in the forests of the NSW North Coast, but also a practical understanding and love of the bush

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that inspires a desire to use its resources wisely.

Sustainable Forest management (i.e. not harvesting faster than the forest can regrow and not destroying its ability to maintain its productive capacity) allows the environmental and economic value of the forests to be sustained indefinitely. As well as giving desirable environmental and altruistic outcomes, sustainable forest management is good for Coffs Harbour Hardwoods, as it allows a continuing forest resource that the company needs for the sought-after products it produces.

Timber and forests are a unique resource in that (unlike the extractive industries and other building materials) timber harvested sustainably will replenish itself and provide significant environmental and aesthetic benefits while it is replenishing. Sustainable forest management can provide society with definite benefits, at the same time as providing resources for the timber industry.

Industry and governments seek to ensure that Sustainable Forest Management is achieved by various means, including regulations, certification schemes, and codes of practice.

Logs and poles used in producing CHH products are sourced from either: Private property forests that have been harvested under the NSW Code of Practice for Private Native Forestry controlled by NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change.

Forestry Commission of NSW t/as Forests NSW, which is certified under the Australian Forest Certification Scheme (AFCS Cert No 13761) Both the above sources use recognised protocols for ensuring timber supplies are from native timber resources

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that are legally and sustainably managed.

What is the most satisfying part of the business?

We would have to say that one of the most satisfying parts of the business is seeing the end result of our hard work, from the day we first have an order land on our desk, to the day it leaves; some of these jobs give you a lot of satisfaction, knowing where they’ll end up. We have either delivered first hand or received feedback from some of our distributors as to where some of our jobs finish. Some of Australia’s most well-known icons such as the Sydney Opera House or Parliament House in Canberra have our timber inside. We’ve also done hardwood floors that have been sent to Austria, to high rises in Honolulu, and we've sent decking to Japan.

We have done a huge bridge restoration at Tharwa Bridge in the ACT, along with many others around NSW. Some of the bigger projects we’ve also done surround our waterways, including Sydney Harbour, Newcastle Harbour and the new Howard Smith Wharf restoration on the Brisbane River.

Locally we’ve had the pleasure of doing things like the Giidany Miilarl cultural education space at Muttonbird Island, the feature posts that surround the picnic benches at the jetty foreshore and the whale watch platform at Woolgoolga headland.

Receiving awards has also been satisfying; over the years Coffs Harbour Hardwoods has received awards for a number of our products, like being the number one supplier and other awards for the quality of our timber. This is what we hang our hat on, and we intend to continue this standard today and into the future.

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focusinterview.

Amber has been going from strength to strength since opening in Sydney in 1972. What began as a single store then has grown into a network of more than 29 outlets across Australia.

meet a local

tradie.

hen did you swing open the doors?

We opened our doors in Coffs in 2003. It’s a great business; I particularly enjoy helping our customers create fantastic areas of their homes – especially when we’ve suggested something they hadn’t considered before, that turns into something really stunning.

What drew you to this type of career?

Having renovated many homes since my early twenties, I had a good insight into the building process and knew what good customer service was all about.

When living in Sydney, I was quite familiar with Amber and knew the excellent products and services that they offered, so when the opportunity arose in Coffs Harbour, I jumped in!

With ever-changing trends, what advice can you offer to

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JAMES DOWD AMBER TILES

ensure that people choose a tile or natural stone that they’ll like for years to come?

One of the great things about working with tiles or stone is their durability.

We always advise our customers to have an open mind when planning the solution that’ll work best for them. Take a few different samples home to see what works best with their preferred colour scheme, fixtures, furniture and other home construction materials, and keep them in place for a week or two to see which options work best.

For many, it often comes down to choosing the tiles or stone first, and matching other design elements to their chosen tiling materials and colours.

Our showroom displays also showcase a variety of options to give customers opportunity to visualise different solutions. We

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VS.

PRO

Want curb appeal?

TELEVISION TODAY IS FULL OF DO IT YOURSELF SHOWS. GREAT ENTERTAINMENT OFFERING DRAMA, SUSPENSE AND THE BIG QUESTION OF “CAN THEY ACTUALLY DO THAT?” ON THEIR OWN.

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the plug!

Amber Tiles Coffs Harbour 28 Isles Drive Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 Phone (02) 6651 4133

was a massive fan of Back Yard Blitz. the biggest investment people make. You Everything that Jamie Durie and could walk inside or look down the street his team set out to do was and is and immediately tell that a professional everything that I do on a daily basis. hadn’t done the painting or the landscaping.

Nigel would pave, Scotty would build, Jamie The colour scheme was only the beginning. would design and Jodie would plant out.

There is skill in cutting in, masking up and It was made for TV, though; which meant spraying. It’s a course at TAFE that takes corners were cut. Pouring a concrete years to complete. Even watching footing, laying bricks on it The Block, painting is the one and then rendering it all trade that the contestants in a 48 hour period do – and unassisted. can be done, but it It doesn’t make O N TH E won’t last. There sense to me.

LA N D SC A PI N G are curing times Saving money?

I’M S, G IN SI D E O F TH N to make things O Hardly. Would you SH R A H N OT A S G IN O D F structurally paint your own O EA TH E ID R SE LF. U YO sound etc ... car if they gave LE TT LI A R I can see you the option?

IF IT IS TU R F O OOK G A R D EN IN G, H people attacking On the UR IN A N D G O YO DIY projects, being landscaping side H A R D EST.” misled by what of things, I’m not you see on TV. Even as harsh on the idea something as ‘simple as of doing a little yourself. painting’ isn’t simple.

If it is turf or gardening, As a younger lad, it was hook in and go your hardest. common to work in a new estate where That’s why there are half a dozen nurseries every house was either a Hibbard Home in town. However, for anything structural, I or Tomorrow Home ... five or six in a row. strongly recommend you get a tradesman to The project builders offered clients the lay your pavers, build your deck or retaining option to reduce the build cost if they had wall, and I am more than happy to help. a friend in the trade that could do a part of the work or alternatively, do it themselves. the plug!

The most common items that people would attempt themselves were landscaping and Vaughn Dawes painting. These were brand new homes and DAWES LANDSCAPING 0418 513 202

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IRIYNG A D HI

have the largest display of Natural Stone flooring in Coffs, and every customer since day one has loved the finished result when using Natural Stone, whether indoors or out.

Where is an unexpected place in the home where tiles look amazing?

One area is bedrooms – particularly in Coffs Harbour, where it gets pretty hot and humid over summer and many people are out enjoying the beach and bush – tiles are easy to keep clean and don’t become full of dust, dirt and sand.

Another recent trend is using tiles or stone for feature walls in living rooms and entrances – even feature walls in bedrooms.

Reg Latter Electrical Reg Latter Electrical P/L was awarded the contract to design and construct the electrical services for the new Coffs Harbour GP Super Clinic on Stadium drive.

The Coffs Harbour GP Super Clinic is an innovative new health facility designed to provide a large variety of health and medical services in a single building.

This complex project involved design of the structures substantial electrical requirements, and sourcing of the extensive list of fittings, fixtures, and wiring required to complete the installation.

Specialised sub-contractors were engaged to carry out specific elements of the installation. These specialists included: • Everlast Communications – structured cabling installation and certification.

• Advanced Technologies CCTV system and access control system.

• Acetek Systems – Nurse Call system • Coffs Solar Energy installed a 10kw grid connect solar PV System The Super Clinic comprises of the following facilities: two dental rooms, a dental reporting room, X-ray room, X-ray reporting room, pharmacy, podiatry, pathology, two ultrasound rooms, isolation, three treatment rooms, ECG bay, CEO office, triage office, fifteen consultation rooms, physiotherapy, two training rooms, reception and waiting room, allied health, meeting room, manager’s office, office stations for twelve staff, staff kitchen/ dining and lift to the first floor.

Autospeed Here at Autospeed we are auto enthusiasts, and we are your one stop shop catering to all general rego related rust and repairs.

We look after rust proofing, from minor to major rust repairs, through to a full rotisserie build on your prize possession.

Beat the rust to the chase and come in and see the team at Autospeed to have an obligation free estimate done on your pride and joy. We will advise you on the best way to repair your car, making it safe, with your safety being our top priority.

We offer senior and car club member discounts.

Progress payments plans available for large jobs, and pickup and delivery of your vehicle is not an issue.

All our work is carried out by skilled licensed tradesmen that you can trust, and all our work is guaranteed.

From your pedal car to your show car, cruise on in and check us out at Autospeed Custom Restoration.

We are located at unit 4 & 5/9 Wingara Drive, Coffs Harbour. We have been in operation for six months – an exciting new venture for Coffs Harbour.

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Two Birds Design.

Renovation Project.

The home was originally built in 1955 and remained practically untouched, with the original kitchen, built-in joinery, bathrooms (including the pink mosaic floor and bath tub!) intact. After many years of being a rental property, the house went on the market; our clients saw its potential, and the transformation began.

Project Brief.

The project brief was to modernise the home whilst retaining as much of the original circa 1955 finishes as possible – to create a home for a busy active family that was easy to maintain. It was a fantastic opportunity for Two Birds Design, as the clients, an experienced builder and a creative graphic designer, have a keen eye for detail and could easily see the vision.

before.

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Project Outcome.

The project was a match made in heaven for Two Birds Design, as we love mixing the old with the new. A common theme throughout the home is the touches of charcoal. We utilised this strong colour in varying degrees, bold in the kitchen and living room and more subdued in the bathroom.

The kitchen and dining area was modernised by using a combination of simple, clean materials in fresh white and charcoal. The detail was carefully balanced by adding subway tiles to the splash-back, feature lighting (a mix of custom made pendants, bare timber bulbs), and pressed tinlook wallpaper, all supplied by Two Birds Design. The strong graphic/lineal artwork added the contemporary boldness.

The main bathroom was completed renovated: a mix of colour, texture and pattern work beautifully together. Two Birds Design sourced the awesome feature tiles and the clever owner builder reworked a cabinet from the living area to create the timber shelves.

We utilised as much as possible in the living room, including the timber floor boards, fire place, and the amazing cornice/ ceiling. We added colour and pattern with wallpaper from the academy award winning Catherine Martin and finished it off with an eclectic mix of furniture.

We pride ourselves on working closely with our clients to ensure their designs are suitable and that the end result is what they had expected. We are more than happy that we achieved this. This is just one example of our recent completed projects.

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The main bathroom was completely renovated: a mix of colour, texture and pattern work beautifully together.�

t w o

b i r d s

d e s i g n

s t u d i o

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We added colour and pattern with wallpaper from the academy award winning Catherine Martin and finished it off with an eclectic mix of furniture.”

before.

Services.

Offering a diverse range of professional and affordable interior design services from hourly rate consultations through to complete exterior and interior design packages for new homes, renovations and commercial projects.

The girls select and schedule your colour finishes and materials.

They can also complete each project by providing a designers’ finishing touch with furniture, window treatments, artworks, soft furnishings and d accessories.

Photos by Peter Sechi

About Two Birds Design.

Inspiring great spaces. Two Birds Design is a interior design studio run by two experienced (combined 25 years) and respected designers, Kylie Mackay and Kristie Peel, who have a common passion for creating innovative, original interiors that stand thee test of time. "We believe good design is not about the magnitude of the budget; rather, the ideas behind the concept and the attention to detail in executing it," says Kristie.

Two Birds have left the nest!

We have moved and are now conveniently located at 91 West High Street, Coffs Harbour.

Contact Kylie and Kristie on 6652 9154 to discuss your project, either on site or in our NEW STUDIO and view more completed projects on the website: www.twobirdsdesign.com.au

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BLISS N ESO ARE CONTINUING ON FROM THEIR MASSIVE YEAR THAT WAS 2013 AND KICKING OFF 2014 WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT THAT THEIR CURRENT SINGLE ‘MY LIFE’ (FEAT. CEEKAY JONES) HAS NOW REACHED GOLD SALES STATUS IN AUSTRALIA, JUST WEEKS AFTER BEING ADDED TO RADIO ...

CIRCUS UNDER THE STARS TOUR

M

y Life is currently at its highest position on the ARIA Singles Chart and is taken from their #1 album Circus in the Sky, ... which was the 8th best-selling Australian album of 2013 and still sits comfortably inside the ARIA Top 50 Album Chart.

And the excitement doesn’t stop there.

Illusive and Frontier Touring are thrilled to announce that Bliss N Eso will hit the road for a colossal outdoor tour this April/May, their biggest headline tour to date! The Circus Under The Stars outdoor concert series will cover 16 dates, and see Bliss N Eso joined by two of the country’s biggest hip-hop acts, Seth Sentry and Horrorshow.

Sydney powerhouse Horrorshow have established themselves an enormous following through their thrilling, progressive brand of hip-hop, and the human ball of charisma Seth Sentry continues to win over hordes of fans with each passing month. This dream team brings together some of the country’s biggest acts each in their own right, and together they create one of the biggest hip-hop line-ups the country has ever seen!

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Bliss n Eso

The Circus Under the Stars tour will see Bliss N Eso setting up massive customised outdoor stages with state-of-the-art production in each region, taking their explosive live shows outdoors for the first time on a headline tour. This will be a totally new concert experience for each of the 12 regional areas and something that most capital cities will not have seen outside of a festival setting. It’s definitely set to be one to remember!

And in yet another special addition, Bliss N Eso will be bringing out cult US

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FOLLOWING FROM JUNE’S SOLD-OUT ‘HOUSE OF DREAMS’ TOUR AND THEIR CURRENT BIG DAY OUT JAUNT, THIS TOUR WILL PRESENT THE FIRST CHANCE FOR FANS TO HEAR MANY OF THE CIRCUS IN THE SKY SONGS LIVE.”

singer-songwriter Ceekay Jones, who features on current hit single ‘My Life’, to join them on stage at every show.

If all of that is not enough to wrap your ears around, Bliss N Eso are also excited to announce a new initiative which will see them offering the opening

slot on each show of the 16-date tour to a local unsigned artist. For a band that built their following from grass-roots support, they said it was important to give back to the communities that helped get them to where they are.

The competition kicked off last week with them opening the doors for submissions nationwide, with hundreds already received. Submissions will close on this Friday 14 March, after which the band will bunker down to dig through each and every track, finally deciding on a shortlist of three highlights in each city.

They will then give control back to their near half a million social media fans to decide the eventual winner in each town.

With dates in regions across the country, massive outdoor stages in every city and the biggest headline bill the genre has ever seen, this is shaping up to be one tour that will be talked about for years to come. Do not miss out! Tickets on sale now, visit www.frontiertouring. com/blissneso for details.

WHERE AND WHEN Saturday 19 April Coffs Harbour | Showground, NSW (All ages) www.moshtix.com.au Ph: 1800 GET TIX

• the Ultimate VIP experience •

BLISS N ESO CIRCUS UNDER THE STARS OUTDOOR TOUR WITH HORRORSHOW & SETH SENTRY SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2014 Let us know your favourite line from a Bliss N Eso song and what it means to you for your chance to win an Ultimate VIP experience. 4 lucky winners will attend the exclusive sound check and see all the behind the scenes action at the upcoming Circus Under The Stars Tour including your chance to meet and hang out with Bliss, Eso & DJ Izm. Please send answers to comp@blissneso.com with subject line: Coffs Coast FOCUS Bliss N Eso competition.

Competition closes Monday 14 April 2014.

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COFFS COAST

property guide

The G.J. Gardner Homes story began back in 1983 when Greg Gardner, a builder on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, realised the desperate need for a building company which could produce quality homes on time and on budget. Over 30 years later, the company has been so successful that it now operates 100 franchises across Australia, New Zealand and the USA, where it has broken into the tough American building market. It is now the number one franchised building company and has built over 20,000 homes since it was established.

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Our local he Coffs Harbour business is owned and operated by a husband and wife team, Rick and Susan Fischer. They joined the G. J. Gardner Homes group in November 2006, where they operated the successful Grafton business until mid 2013, when they made the move to the coast and acquired the Coffs Harbour business.

What might be an overwhelming industry for many is familiar turf for the Fischers, particularly Rick, who as a 5th generation builder almost has bricks and mortar in his blood. He began an apprenticeship with his father, Neil, and they eventually took on the G. J. Gardner Clarence Valley franchise. Years of practical building knowledge means that he understands that the

T

builder and customer are on a house building journey together.

They emphasise open, honest communication right from the beginning, understanding that being sensitive to a client’s needs, wants and emotions throughout the building process is essential for a happy outcome. Part of this is financial satisfaction, so the emphasis must always be on value and up-front price quoting, with no nasty hidden financial surprises in store for the customer.

The reality is that for a construction company many homes are being built, but for the client there is only one home being built – theirs.

The Fischers are realistic: “It’s not all glitz and glamour; there are going to be complications.

The trick is solving the problem fast.”

Rick and Susan only use local tradies and contractors – ones they have personally selected to be of exceptional quality and value. Rick explained, “We walk the talk. We’re all builders or from the building industry prior to starting with G.J. Gardner. This means we know the trade and we know the tradies. We know how to explain what’s happening to our customers, because we’re personally involved in every project.”

Susan Fischer put it in perspective, “We are a local business with local knowledge; we use local tradespeople and local suppliers. Yes, we build homes, but we also play a part in building the community that brings all these homeowners, investors and tenants together. Builders that

story have worked in the area for years know the landscape intimately, what is under the soil, what are the best positions to build in to take full advantage of cooling breezes. They have dealt with Coffs Harbour City Council and benefit from a professional relationship with them; best of all, they have chosen to live in the area – this is their home too.”

With one of the best climates in NSW, in a stunning natural environment, the Coffs Coast is the perfect environment to bring up a family, or to retire. Rick and Susan certainly think so; they are bringing up their family on our beautiful Coffs Coast and are now proud to be one of the longest serving franchisees in the NSW group.

Imagine your home.

locals at hand.

When you visit your local G.J. Gardner Homes office, we want you to feel like you’re already home.

Every franchise is owned and operated by people with local knowledge, insights, expertise and advice. We know the local council and the best local tradies, because we work with them every day.

Building your new home with a local team you can get to know personally is surprisingly easy. Come in and visit us to find out more.

Call us on 132 789 or visit us at gjgardner.com.au Images may depict fixtures, finishes and features not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. These items include planter boxes, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, screens and decorative landscaping items such as fencing and outdoor kitchens and barbecues and fireplaces. For detailed home pricing, please talk to a sales consultant.

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Horror stories of homes which lfil their have failed to fu gely hu promise, or run not e ar et dg bu over make d uncommon an s er ild bu first home ly ab nd ta unders nervous.”

“ Is your builder the complete package?

Would you love to build a new home but feel daunted by the whole process? You are not alone. The planning and construction of a new home requires a lot of patience and absolute trust in your builder, who has to be experienced, committed to quality and able to deliver in full, on-time and within your budget.

Horror stories of homes which have failed to fulfil their promise, or run hugely over budget are not uncommon and make first home builders understandably nervous. After all, buying or building a home is the biggest financial and emotional investment most

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people will make in their lifetime. If it goes wrong, the outcome can be serious and long-lasting.

It is essential that your builder has a proven track record with a solid portfolio of construction proving their credentials. Are they flexible, able to build the home you want, rather than the one which is easiest and cheapest for them to construct? Do you feel confident that your builder can think ‘outside the square’ and you are not hemmed in to

their preconceived notion of the kind of home you should build?

Whether you want to build modestly or grandly, G.J. Gardner Homes is driven by an expectation of excellence and a commitment to give you their full personal attention. After building over 20,000 homes worldwide, GJG has built an enviable reputation as the new home builder with the runs on the board; put simply, they have the solid experience you can trust. In their homes quality inclusions come as standard,

along with features that will hold their value and save you money in the long run, such as water and energy saving features.

The company has developed its unique Five Stage On Site Check, which allows you to be involved in the building process from beginning to end and ensure quality is at the forefront – always. They also boast a unique five-star performance check, which involves you being invited onto the building site at the completion of the major stages of construction: slab down; frame up; lock up, fixing and practical completion. This is transparency in the building process in action, allowing you to be reassured that

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your investment is progressing exactly as you planned.

Listening, being flexible and delivering a quality outcome is the key. New Home Sales Consultant Brad Bye says he prefers to be known as a trusted advisor, rather than a sales consultant and his colleague, Chris Shute, agrees. “At the end of the day, everything comes down to getting the right outcome, [delivering] on time and at the best price.”

With unbeatable customer service at the heart of what the business does, G. J. Gardner Homes understands that building a new home is a very special experience, albeit a daunting one. Because of this, communication with

clients is of the utmost importance and this is where this big building company, with the personal service of a small builder, makes the perfect partner as that dream home becomes a reality.

Coming soon: the New Home Design Centre Next month G.J. Gardner Homes will swing open the doors to its New Home design Centre in Orlando Street. For GJG Coffs Coast owners Rick and Susan Fischer, this is a logical next step for their growing business and the move into their brand new design centre will create an accessible and central meeting place for their clients, large body of trade suppliers

and of course, their staff.

The 400 square metre showroom is designed as a welcoming space with customer care as its focus; it will also allow plenty of room for the staff, a generous display area and provide facilities to be a central meeting place for suppliers. The showroom will allow clients to see the full G.J. Gardner design range, view the wide range of standard fixtures, meet with a colour consultant, and examine the wide range of fittings available.

With 24 new home designs to choose from, there is one perfectly tailored for your family’s

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lifestyle, or one which can be customised to meet all your needs.

Flip books, colour charts and display boards from different suppliers allow all the new home design information to come together in one place, allowing clients a real sense of being able to personalise their home. Orlando Street’s central location will allow Coffs Harbour workers to drop in during their lunch hour to pick up design information, meet with an expert or get some colour samples to take home and muse over.

Proud Suppliers of G.J. GARDNER HOMES - COFFS COAST

TILES | PAVERS | STONE | RETAINING WALLS

Amber COFFS HAROUR 28 Isles Drive COFFS HARBOUR

Ph: 6651 4133 ambercoffs.com.au coffs coast focus 83

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Our local

Now it’s time to meet the team.

When the doors to the new showroom open, the first person you will meet is Coffs local Kim Casson, who as Administration Manager has the enjoyable ‘meet and greet’ role – one which she relishes. She will ensure that your first contact with GJG is a warm one and as a client, it is Kim who will book your appointments, such as those with the colour consultant, who will help you choose your home’s interior palette.

Kim also does all the administration for clients, such as their contracts, and looks after the whole office.

She joined the team in August last year after so Our homes are many years in local government at Clarence to important, and Valley Council and Coffs Harbour City homes be happy in our nse Council. “I like the opportunity to meet a se is so vital to our eing . variety of people and watching the start to lb of peace and wel y step finish of the building process; working with er Being there at ev ching the client the whole way through is very at w , along the way is , satisfying.” er th ge to it all come The two New Home Sales Consultants will fying.” incredibly satis be based one week at the showroom itself and one week at G.J. Gardner’s display home in North Sapphire, meaning there will always be a sales professional available in both places for clients. The ‘new boy’ is Chris Shute, who started with GJG in February after re-locating with his fiancée to the beautiful Coffs

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Coast from Melbourne.

Currently living in Woolgoola, Chris is enjoying the coast’s laid-back lifestyle – one which has him feeling very content with his move north. This is augmented by his job, which he describes as perfect: “I am in touch with the building and housing industries, but without the stress of being a real estate agent, and this role allows me to draw on my long experience in the building industry and the skills I have learnt working with architects. But my greatest satisfaction comes from the smile I get from customers when we hand over the keys to their new home.”

Working with him is the other New Home Sales Consultant, local boy Brad Bye. What inspires him about his job? “I enjoy my interaction with people the best – being part of making someone’s new home dreams come true. Our homes are so important and to be happy in our homes is so vital to our sense of peace and wellbeing. Being there at every step along the way, watching it all come together, is incredibly satisfying.”

Coming from a building industry background with on the ground experience as a cement renderer and painter, Brad has seen the good, the bad and the ugly of the building industry. This has made him determined to see that his clients receive the best building advice, and he

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Neil Fischer

BRAD BYE

prides the whole GJG team on giving first-class information. “People need the truth – not another sales pitch.”

The testimonials which really matter are from Coffs locals, so let’s hear from some who’ve built their new homes with G.J. Gardner.

“Our dream of building our new home started with the usual rounds of display homes and while I was interested in the fixtures and fittings, my husband was more interested in the quality of the build and [having] his questions answered about the build process. Brad Bye won hands down, as he met my husband’s criteria on knowledge of the build process and mine with all the fancy finishing bits. Both Brad and Rick worked with us closely to ensure all our needs were met and the home came out just how I pictured in my head ... the finishes are perfect, the quality of a high standard, and nothing was too much trouble. Thank you G.J. Gardner Coffs Harbour; you guys are the best.” – Annette Doohan, Bank Manager,

The finishes are pe rfec t, high the quality of a thing standard, and no ble. ou tr h was too muc ardner Thank you G.J .G you Coffs Harbour; .” st guys are the be

“

W ki Westpac B Banking Corporation, Coffs Harbour.

“Choosing G.J. Gardner for our first build was one of research and word of mouth.

Brad being a ‘local’ and very knowledgeable in the industry put our mind at ease ... Rick and Brad were very helpful with the design, as they could see ways on how to improve the layout; Brent and I changed the design of the home on their helpful suggestions. G.J. Gardner, I believe, is one of the strongest competitors on the market. The staff are friendly, approachable and any changes I had were dealt with efficiently; we were always kept informed of how things were running. I'm very pleased and confident with G.J. Gardener [and] that they will provide me with a quality and beautiful home.” – Katrina and

Brent Stuart.

The New Home Design Centre is due to open in May. Address: 171 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour. Hours: 8.30am 5pm, Monday to Friday. Email: coffsharbour@gjgardner.com.au Walking through your dream

home It is one thing to look at home design plans, view images online and listen to advice from people who have travelled the home design road, but the way to know what your new home will really look like is to walk through it. This is where a visit to a display home is invaluable.

How do the house’s spaces work with each other? What overall impression does the house leave? Do you want to make a powerful statement with your home, or for it

to be elegantly understated?

The company has built a beautifully positioned display home in the heart of one of the loveliest new residential areas in our region, North Sapphire Estate. For your convenience, it is open every day, so visit as often as you want and stroll through at your own pace. Experienced staff are always on hand to answer all your building questions, including pricing. Complete product displays can also be found here, which makes it easy to choose internal finishes.

The home itself is one of G. J. Gardner’s most popular family designs, the Coolum 253, which has been modified to be 300 square metres. It’s a spacious home which is designed around a central open plan living space, features four generous bedrooms, a home theatre, a well-appointed kitchen and a spacious dining and living room which overlooks a covered tiled alfresco.

LIGHTING ~ ELECTRICAL ~ DATA

Proud suppliers of GJ Gardner Homes Cetnaj Coffs Harbour 151 Orlando St Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Ph: (02) 6652 7400

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Our local The façade is a modern minimalist style with a Colorbond metal roof, which provides outstanding insulation. Overall the house expresses a sense of space, light and peace; it’s the best in contemporary design, sleek and unfussy, liveable but with a feeling of luxury.

This practical and comfortable home has a special place in the heart of the owners of G. J. Gardner Coffs Coast, Rick and Susan Fischer.

“We know from personal experience why the Coolum design range is so popular. We lived in this style of home with our three young children and so have first-hand experience about how this fantastic design works in practice. Because of this, we wanted to showcase the Coolum to our clients, so they can experience its comfort and see the home design we picked out for our family.”

At whatever level you wish to build, the team at G.J. Gardner Homes is driven by an expectation of excellence and a desire to give attention

to every detail of your home’s construction.

Green Bluff Road, North Sapphire NSW 2450.

Clients can choose from more than 90 home Phone: 6653 6335. Open 7 days per week. plans, every one of which can be modified or Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm. Saturday customised to suit your land, lifestyle - Sunday, 10am - 4pm. Email: coffsharand budget. GJG has a saying: bour@gjgardner.com.au “Your plan or ours”, because Stylish Smeg: win a kitchen 70 per cent of the homes full of classy appliances es These applianc they build are created Style, for Smeg, is at e are so enjoyabl from their own plans or the heart of their product w lo al to use that they one off designs. range.

It is the way their e m co the kitchen to be This freedom allows kitchenware communicates d pe a fully-equip you to be firmly in the with its surroundings, its e os th r fo backdrop ble ya jo driver’s seat with the superlative design enabling en d an us precio .” power to optimise your users to easily interact with family moments new home, giving it a its perfect form and funcunique edge which can be tionality. Smeg appliances are as simple or extravagant as you known for their attention to detail wish. Because of this flexibility, G.J. and for providing designs which are Gardner Homes have successfully built more technologically brilliant, yet sleek and contemthan 20,000 homes, all of them different. porary. In short, Smeg’s winning formula equals The G.J. Gardner Homes display home, 3 form and function married together in equal

“

Independent Franchisee of the Wet-seal System (”Wet-seal Franchisee”):

Wet-seal

R

“Your Waterproofing Specialists”

quality guaranteed waterproofing systems the fully compliant exclusive complete waterproofing systems also available affordable, safe & remarkably efficient underfloor heating systems

New Franchise Owners Matt & Katrina Kennedy

Are proud to be associated with

G.J. Gardner Homes Contact Matt or Katrina Today Mid North Coast Franchisees

0418 656 129 E: midnorthcoast@wet-seal.ws www.wet-seal.ws 86 coffs coast focus.

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1800 025 081

BRANZ Appraised

Appraisal No.372 [2000] Appraisal No.788 [2012]

story partnership.

With Smeg, appliances take centre stage in the kitchen, the heart of the home, a place where the family naturally congregates. These appliances are so enjoyable to use that they allow the kitchen to become a fully-equipped backdrop for those precious and enjoyable family moments. Knowing how to combine technology with style is Smeg’s key; in doing so, they have created products which have become truly iconic.

Smeg is an Italian home appliance manufacturer with 16 subsidiaries worldwide, but the company has a long-standing Australian connection. It is little-known that in 1971 Smeg manufactured a hugely successful range of dishwashers under the ‘Dishlex’ brand, which were found in homes across Australia.

In 1986, the Smeg brand was introduced to Australia in its own right, and since then it has won legions of fans – the brand cementing itself as the household name for premier cooking and

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WIN A SMEG KITCHEN APPLIANCE PACKAGE. worth $6,300 PACKAGE INCLUDES COOKER, DISHWASHER, MICROWAVE, SINK, TAP, RANGE HOOD

kitchen appliances. In 2011 the Smeg franchise became the Smeg Group and now operates here as Smeg Australia Pty Ltd. While Smeg appliances are superlative, it is a truism that we get what we pay for, meaning that these products can be costly. Enter G.J. Gardner Homes, with an extraordinary competition which allows you to be in the running for a range of these amazing kitchens wonders. The prize is a substantial Smeg package valued at $6,380 and includes: a cooker, dishwasher, sink and tap set, microwave and range hood. But the ‘winning’ doesn’t stop there – GJG will provide a $1,000 cheque towards the installation of these exquisite appliances. How good would these Smeg appliances look in your new home?

To enter the competition is simple: • Join the G.J. Gardner mailing list and tell us in 25 words or less what you most like about our display home • Like our Facebook page or check-in to our display home at North Sapphire

• Tell us via Facebook what you most like about G.J. Gardner homes in 25 words or less.

The completion runs from 1 February to 31 May 2014, and the winner will be announced via Facebook and the G.J. Gardner Homes email newsletter. Good luck!

From the footy field to the beach: GJG community involvement It is a core value of G.J. Gardner Homes to put money back into the local community. Wherever the company is based they can be found supporting local organisations, with ‘on the ground’ sponsorship being a key part of both belonging to the local area and being an engaged corporate citizen. Rick and Susan Fischer, owners of the Coffs Coast GJG business, have made sure that their local dollars have been fed back into local organisations via substantial sponsorship commitments. Here are two great sporting bodies benefiting from GJG’s financial pledges.

The Comets The Comets, Coffs Harbour Rugby League

Football Club, had a tremendous 2013 season.

Winning the premiership in the Group Two competition for the first time in 28 years, they also placed strongly in the reserve grade and unsurprisingly, their supporter base has grown quickly. With a strong presence on social media and a newsletter ‘Commentary’ which goes out weekly to over 400 supporters, the club is going from strength to strength. G.J. Gardner Homes is a silver sponsor of the club and is proud to have its name on the jerseys of the first grade senior league. The junior club is also fielding an enviable number of promising players and here Brad Bye, GJG New Home Sales Consultant, can be found coaching these up and coming juniors.

Coffs Harbour Boardriders Since 1960 the Coffs Harbour Boardriders (CHB) has been a part of the local surfing com-

munity, having a visible presence on our vibrant coast for over 50 years. This isn’t an exclusive club; unlike many other board riding groups, the CHB has a strong family focus, with their number one goal being ‘to give everyone a go in surfing’ and help nurture young surfing talent from our region.

Brad Bye knows the club well, as his 15 y.o. daughter is a member and a keen surfer. It was natural then for G.J. Gardner Homes to become a silver sponsor of the club, providing the necessary funds to make sure the club survives and thrives. This isn’t G.J. Gardner Homes’ only presence on the beach; they also support Surf Life Saving Australia Coffs Harbour and their vital work keeping us water safe when we are enjoying our enviable coastal lifestyle.

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Rick and Susan Fischer of G.J. are Gardner Homes g local in us to committed d have an le op trades pe l local fu created a power g in ild network of bu professionals.”

“ A big thank you to some wonderful local suppliers Rick and Susan Fischer of G.J. Gardner Homes are committed to using local trades people and have created a powerful local network of building professionals.

Here’s a shout out to a couple of them: keeping your dry areas dry Do you want to waterproof your internal and external wet areas – bathrooms, shower recesses, toilet and laundry areas, decks and balconies – so that they remain dry, and receive a guarantee that they will stay free from moisture? Welcome to Wet-seal! Wet-seal is an industry-leading waterproofing specialist for all internal and external wet areas and has

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been in operation since 1984. Thanks to our large franchise network, you can find us all around Australia and New Zealand.

Why hire Wet-seal for your waterproofing work? Leaks are costly: if waterproofing isn’t done properly, it can take years before you find out wet areas have been leaking into your walls or floors. Incorrect waterproofing may cause rising damp, mildew, mould and fungi, corrosion of metal pipes and structural damage such as rotting timbers. Don’t risk it. That’s why G. J. Gardner Coffs Coast use Wet-seal; like GJG, they are extremely particular about the quality

Our local

of workmanship.

Indoors or outdoors, quality tiles are always in fashion Whether you are building or renovating your home, Amber is a one-stopshop for all your wall and flooring needs. They offer a high quality variety of indoor and outdoor natural stone floors, porcelain tiles and ceramic floor tiles, clay pavers and concrete pavers, retaining walls, bathroom tiles and artificial grass – right down to pool mosaics, decorative features and cladding.

More information ...

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Whether you're paving your driveway, building a retaining wall, replacing your bathroom tiles or tiling your home with natural stone floors, Amber has quality products to match your inspirations.

Amber is proud to be one of Australia's largest importers of tiles and pavers, sourcing the best quality natural stone tiles and concrete pavers to our customers directly from local Australian suppliers and quarries throughout the world.

Amber has been operating since 1973; since then, they have expanded to 29 franchises throughout Australia. If product knowledge is what you are after, Amber has all the answers that you need.

focustourism. with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

UPDATE

Celebrating 50 years On Tuesday 15 April, Coffs Harbour City Library will be celebrating 50 years of service to the local community. A special public morning tea event will take place at 10.30am at Coffs Harbour Library on the day, attended by the Mayor and VIPs from the State Library. Along with speeches and birthday cake, there will also be an exhibition of library memorabilia on show.

The library will also be launching its ‘50 stories’ project on the day – an innovative project using an online blog site and digital media to showcase its history, which will also include oral history interviews.

The library has also partnered with local bookshops to run a ‘gift registry’ for the community – as it’s our birthday, why not buy us a book as a present? Details are available in the library or at Dymocks (Plaza) or the

Book Warehouse (City Centre and Toormina).

Participants will enter a lucky draw for great prizes and can also choose to be the first to borrow the book!

Coffs Harbour Shire Council established the

Practical Tips To Strengthen Your Online Presence

library service in 1964 as part of the Civic Centre complex on Vernon/Castle Streets. It moved to a purpose-built building in Castle Street in 1973 before moving to its current home on the corner of Coff and Duke Streets in 2000.

Special children’s Storytime sessions will be held during the week to help celebrate this milestone, and an informal staff reunion social event is planned for the evening.

For more information, contact the library on (02) 6648 4900 or email coffs.library@chcc. nsw.gov.au

hether you’re a tourism business or not, we all know the importance of appearing on Google’s first page. In the past there were ways to ‘trick’ the system to appear high in the ranks, such as stuffing websites with keywords and artificial links. However, late last year Google overhauled its entire engine to ensure that users find websites that are actually relevant to them – how clever!

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Places. Update your details and include lots of photos and videos … this will help you rise in the ranks when people are searching nearby. And don’t forget to ask your customers to review you on Google Places; this will help you jump to the top of the page!

GET SOCIAL - Embed social media on your website and don’t forget Google+; Google indexes these posts in the same way they do blogs. Post regularly: Google notices your level of activity – especially if your content is shared.

The new engine, called Hummingbird, is based on ‘semantics’. This means that search results will be based GET A YOUTUBE ACCOUNT more on the actual YouTube is the second largest content of your search engine in the world website and most … and conveniently part If you’d like to importantly, the of Google! Videos are a join Tourism context of the great way for potential se Coffs Co ast plea @ user. So search fo in travellers to visualise contact us via: . m results will be .co st oa sc themselves at your tourismcoff ebsite different for each destination or hotel. au or visit the w ffscoast. user based on You can then embed www.tourismco their geographical com.au” the video on your own location, search website or blog, and history, social media include the link in your sharing and online social media posts. behavior.

If you would like more information To ensure your website and on this topic or would like to get in Google are best friends, here are touch with a local web company to assist some fundamentals you need to you, please contact our office – we are here remember: to help.

CHECK YOUR BASICS - For Google to The information above has been adapted index your website properly, you need to from www.mytravelresearch.com, a make sure you have relevant headings, titles fantastic resource for the tourism industry. and descriptions.

About us: MOBILE READY - Google’s new engine Tourism Coffs Coast is a not for profit was designed with mobile users at the organisation that is committed to forefront, so take the step to ensure your developing a vibrant and thriving tourism site is optimized for mobile. industry within the Coffs Coast to maximise HOW’S YOUR NAP? - Make sure your the social and economic benefits for our name, address and phone numbers are community. consistent (check spelling, spacing etc) If you’d like to join Tourism Coffs across the internet. Consistent listings tell Coast, please contact us via: info@ Google you are a legitimate business. tourismcoffscoast.com.au or visit the

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GET ON THE MAP - If you’re a tourism business, make sure you’re on Google

website www.tourismcoffscoast.com.au Remember, tourism is everybody’s business! coffs coast focus 89

focusrealestate.

with Chris Hines from Unrealestate

Destination: NSW State Forests NSW State Forests cover 2 million hectares of forest across NSW, offering the visitor a range of experiences that no others can match. There are roomy campsites, shaded picnic areas, tree-lined walking tracks and spectacular lookouts. You can swim in a creek, hike up a mountain, chat around a campfire, or simply listen to the sounds of nature. You can pitch a tent anywhere you like, explore forest tracks on trail bike or mountain bike, ride a horse cross-country, 4WD, and bring your dog too!

Your local State Forest is an unmissable stop on your next self-drive outing, whether it’s for a few hours, a picnic, or an overnight stay. An extensive network of roads and trails provide easy entry to State Forests, whilst walking tracks allow visitors to experience special places and nature at its best.

NSW State Forests are absolutely free and represent one of the most cost-effective holiday escapes you will find – good news for families! State-wide there are 125+ visitor sites, with a mix of picnic tables, BBQs, fireplaces, shelters, rainwater tanks, toilets and carparks, all within the forest environment, which is a star in its own right.

There is a range of information available to

real State Forest: free, fun, and you can bring your dog.

ensure your next trip is a memorable one.

You can pick up a regional Forest Map at your local Visitor Information Centre, or contact us online to purchase your copy. We encourage visitors to share their experience via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram – we love to hear from you and are happy to share your holiday snaps!

With great places to explore, rest, learn, play or just get away from it all, come and experience a forest playground.

For more information: www.forestrycorporation.com.au www.facebook.com/forestplayground Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests

was recently privileged to see a presentation by Dr Andrew Wilson, Australian Property Monitors Senior Economist. Any of you who have listened to an economist before may well be thinking, “I’d rather be at the dentist getting my teeth pulled”, but Dr Wilson has the ability to explain the various nuances of the market in plain English.

In short, the news is good for both home owners, home buyers and landlords on the Coffs Coast.

Dr Wilson believes in a house price cycle model that works through various peaks and troughs; this is not a new model, and it has been proven time and time again since the Australian property market has been studied. The interesting part, however, is what happens between these peaks and troughs. He describes these as a ‘correction’, which is when the market dips after a rise, a ‘consolidation’, which in short is when the market finds its own balance, a ‘recovery’, which is in short a revival, and finally ‘expansion’, which is basically growth.

So what causes these phases of the market? A correction is brought about when affordability collapses; this can be brought about by high interest rates, higher home prices and generally a down economy that simply can’t support a high housing market. This leads to a contraction in the market, which in turn causes housing prices to dip, and find their own level.

The next phase is that of recovery, when affordability improves, interest rates fall, and the economy in general has revived.

The final phase is, of course, expansion, when confidence has been restored, interest rates are at historical lows and we have a solid economy.

At present there are a lot of key drivers affecting the market nationally, which indeed feed into the Coffs market. Low unemployment rates, rising wages, low

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interest rates, a rising stock market, and above all consumer confidence, are all key drivers in the property market.

We are currently experiencing a time where optimism is starting to outweigh pessimism, and the Reserve Bank, whilst keeping rates steady for so long, are showing confidence. Internationally, growth in China remains strong, the US economy continues to revive, and the Australian dollar falling against the US dollar also greatly assists our national export industry.

Of all of the states, NSW is the most resilient, with a steady upward trend because of its mixed economy. WA and Queensland continue to strengthen on the back of mining and tourism, whilst the Victorian economy is taking a bit of a hit due to its declining manufacturing industry.

So that’s a thumbnail shot of the international and national situation, but how are we looking on the Coffs Coast?

The good news: the market is reviving with prices and sales on the Coffs Coast beginning to rise. Why? Because we have a solid affordable lifestyle, retiree and holiday market. We are also becoming a great choice for the ‘fly in, fly out’ market. We have great infrastructure with a jet airport, quality healthcare and education and a great climate.

Couple this with not only a falling unemployment rate and the fact that a more competitive Australian dollar assists not only our manufacturing and export industry, but also our tourism industry, and we seem well set up.

For our local property market this means it’s a great time to buy or sell. It’s a strong balanced market where there are some great prices being achieved, but still great value for money for purchasers. For investors the news is great as well, with returns up and vacancy rates around only 1%. So on that happy note, have a great month.

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