Coffs Coast Focus i104

Paul Crichton

May 2019. issue 104

STEVE REP

1 coffs coast focus.

TILES

Take charge of your future in a rapidly changing world.

Explore over 80 degree options, meet the academic staff and get a feel for campus life. Join us for an action packed day with tours of the campus and colleges, demonstrations, free food and entertainment.

UNE Open Day 10 May 2019 une.edu.au/openday

focus COFFS COAST

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 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

contacts.

SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci Seccombe nicole@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Rebecca Platts rebecca@focusmag.com.au ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGN Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Phiranno Chuon phi@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Jo Robinson rnrmedia@bigpond.com PHOTOGRAPHY/EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@fairfaxmedia.com.au Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content.

Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2018 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

FOCUS is printed by Fairfax Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.

team From the

Welcome to the May issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS .

W

elcome to the May edition of FOCUS! A big shout out to all the fabulous mothers in the Coffs Coast Community.

Sunday 12th May is Mother’s Day, so to recognise motherhood, celebrate the day with the mother figure in your life! In honour of Mother’s Day this month, we decided we needed to chat with Jacqui Jarratt, an incredible local woman who has experienced motherhood in many different forms. Jacqui has three biological children, two of whom are adults with children of their own now, and one who is just six years old, and she also opens her home to foster children in need of care, support and love. So, as someone who has been mother to young children, mother to adult kids,

grandmother, foster mother, mentor/mother figure … we felt she was the perfect person to ask about what motherhood means to her and why it’s such a special and important role.

In May 2019, we celebrate seven and a half years of publishing Coffs Coast FOCUS, making us one of the leading publications in the region. Over two million copies later, we have never been more connected to our readers. We don’t just print 21,000 copies every month; we engage with our readers on social media, with our ever present online audience. Our online flip book is a genuine way for our readers to digest our publication. For our advertisers, this means more unique readers being exposed to your business.

This month’s cover features a true local

legend, Steve McEwan. Many Coffs Coast locals will already know of Steve McEwan and his reptilian friends; you will likely have seen him at the Coffs or Bellingen Show with a snake, lizard, or even a croc in tow! Steve has had a passion for reptiles since he was a small child, and he has managed to make a career out of being a reptile keeper at the Gosford Reptile Park, and then doing shows in our region after moving to the Coffs Coast. His lifelong dream of opening his own Reptile World is being realised, as he is about to open his doors at the Big Banana Fun Park! We got Steve to tell us all about it.

Final Say: “We don’t own the planet Earth; we belong to it. And we must share it with our wildlife” - Steve Irwin.

Wishing upon a star?

Let Mercedes-Benz Australia's New Vehicle Sales Consultant Of The Year Lachlan Brown assist you with your new car purchase.

Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. You know that you will get the right advice & friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased.

Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration our range of motor vehicles today.

Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel 1800 693 876 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au LMD3461 Coffs Coast focus 3

contents

39

Issue 104 - May 2019

focusinterviews

10

feature a special

WOMEN'S HEALTH

Boston and Heilalas Phillips.

Siblings Boston and Heilalas Phillips grew up travelling the world due to their father’s work, and when they settled in Sawtell only five years ago, they both developed an interest in surfing - heading out almost daily.

12

Kamla Ruthnam-Webb.

Kamla Ruthnam-Webb was runner-up in the 2019 International Women's Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year awards, and we can see why! Her endless dedication to supporting other members of the community to reach their goals is nothing short of inspiring.

26

Tony Jones.

Tony Jones, or TJ as many locals know him as, used to own the Plantation Hotel with his family in the mid ’90s and is now back there doing his thing as the General Manager. Tony has also spent time as a fitness coach and loves to get out and train, fitting in as much adventure sport as he can along the way!

Women’s F O C U S

the Usual

F E A T U R E

Suspects

16. WHAT’S ON for May 22. EAT local restaurants 34. SOCIAL SCENE with Carole Beros 38. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 64. TRAVEL TIME with Kerry Moss 78. BUSINESS MINDS with Sam Wardman

46

Jen Darby

Jen Darby is a midwife here on the Coffs Coast, one we are lucky to have, with many years of experience behind her. We asked Jen about life as a midwife, what her role means to her, and what makes it so special ...

4 Coffs Coast focus

82. ABODE property guide

follow us on

www.facebook.com/CoffsCoastFocus

No matter where you are in the world, read Focus for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 5

focusinterview.

PAUL CRICHTON PAUL CRICHTON SPENT THE FIRST FEW YEARS OF HIS CAREER AS A DENTIST WORKING WITH THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE, WHERE HE LEARNT TO WORK UNDER PRESSURE AND IN ALL SORTS OF CONDITIONS.

H

e spent some time working in East Timor, where he faced the most challenging conditions and learnt about areas of dentistry that you just wouldn’t learn in general dentistry practices, like forensic identification, for example. Paul has since worked in private practices here on the Coffs Coast and is now the owner of Jetty Dental in Coffs Harbour.

Hi Paul. Can you tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast?

In 2004, after five years as a Dental Officer in the Australian Regular Army, I was ready for a change and was fortunate enough to be offered a job in a well established private practice in Coffs Harbour. I fell in love with Coffs Harbour straight away and eventually convinced my wife, Selina that the fishing was too good to leave. After 13 years in private practice, it was time to take the next step towards practice ownership, and in December 2016 we purchased Jetty Dental from Tony and Wendy Kershaw.

How long have you been practicing dentistry?

After five years of study, I graduated from the University of Queensland in 1999 with a Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc) with First Class Honours. So, this will be my 20th year as a practicing dentist.

What originally sparked your interest in the field?

My decision to study dentistry was more of a spur of the moment decision, rather than 6 Coffs Coast focus

a childhood dream. My childhood dream lowed to deploy on operations, which meant was to be a marine biologist; however, six that the dental facility was working around months into a science degree, a close friend the clock to enable these soldiers to deploy of mine suggested we should take university overseas. I could not have asked for a better seriously and threw an information brochure start to my career as a dentist and was also about dentistry on to my lap. The rest, as fortunate enough to be sent on operations they say, is history. to East Timor twice as a Dental Officer in Tell us a little about your experiences in 2001 and 2003. the military as a dentist?

How did that work differ from what you I was awarded an undergraduate scholdo here at home? arship with the Australian Defence Force My main role whilst on operations was (Army) while in my third to maintain the dental year at dental school fitness of all Australian and after graduation, Defence Force personwas posted as a Dental nel who were deployed Officer to Lavarack into East Timor.

I COULD NOT HAVE Barracks, 3rd Brigade The main difference ASKED FOR A BETTER in Townsville. This was from work in Australia START TO MY CAREER AS a great environment was the environment in A DENTIST AND WAS ALSO to learn my trade and which we were required FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO improve my skills, as I to perform our job.

BE SENT ON OPERATIONS was always supported Field dentistry in East TO EAST TIMOR TWICE AS and mentored by exTimor was often carried A DENTAL OFFICER. perienced dentists and out under canvas tents highly trained dental in stifling conditions. specialists.

One of the more At the time, Lavarack interesting parts of my Barracks had a large eight chair dental job involved forensic identification, and my facility that was responsible for the dental skills were put to use on both deployments health of 5,000 soldiers. It was a busy time by the United Nations to aid in the identifor the Australian Military, with the Austrafication of plane crash victims and combat lian lead INTERFET coalition deploying to East victims.

Timor in September 1999. The main AustraIn 2003 I was part of a larger healthcare lian combat elements included infantry and team that was also made up of surgeons, cavalry, provided by the 3rd Brigade. Every anesthetists, intensive care specialists and soldier had to be dentally fit before being alnurses. The Australian Army at times was

providing a lot of humanitarian aid, and I was able to spend part of my time providing very basic dental services (i.e. tooth extractions) to the East Timorese people in some very remote parts of the jungle.

You have recently taken ownership of Jetty Dental here in Coffs; what made you decide to start your own business?

Practice ownership was something Selina and I had considered for some time and in late 2016, an opportunity arose to purchase Jetty Dental, that was already a well established practice in a fantastic location within Coffs Harbour. After meeting with the previous owners, it turned out to be a very easy decision for us, and we were able to hit the ground running. Since that time, Jetty Dental has continued to grow and maintain its reputation within the Coffs community.

What area of dentistry do you most enjoy and why?

The most enjoyable part of being a general dentist is the variety of procedures that we get to provide our patients on a daily basis.

I think the continual technological advances are the most exciting aspect of dentistry at present. Dental materials and procedures are getting better every year, and I am fortunate to work in a time where we can offer patients such a vast range of treatment options. My main interest is in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, and I enjoy the challenge of saving badly damaged teeth that may once have been destined for extraction.

Thanks Paul.

focusinterview

Sophie Bird of Wrecked Vintage

SHANTI WADE A P R I C H E

T H E

L A B E L

Luxury fabrics, flattering design, sustainably made and designed right here on the Coffs Coast? Apriche the Label by Shanti Wade is all of the above and more ...

S

hanti! Where do you call home right now? And what does a regular day look like for you?

Home for me is the Coffs Coast. I love the beach lifestyle and start most days with a walk and swim. At the moment I’m working

on new design ideas, so I spend some time developing and fine tuning details and working on bringing them together to create the next collection. I always try to spend a couple of hours focused on marketing, whether it’s social media, emails or research. And back to the beach for a

swim in the afternoon! damage to the environment as possible.

You are quite the triple threat ... Designer, We make use of fabric off cuts by making sewer and photographer. How do you find scrunchies and scarves to minimise waste the space for new ideas, and what do you and always use fabrics that are natural and love the most right now? biodegradable.

I absolutely love it all and am inspired daily You are a women’s wear designer; what by the world around me, especially living here. do you think of when dressing a female Ideas are endless for me, and I find so much joy figure? Your clothing is very flattering and in being able to bring them to life. inclusive.

You’re on to your I am inspired to second collection now create clothing that ... How does this one celebrates the feminine differ from your first? form and allows My latest collection women of all ages and I AIM TO DESIGN is soft, feminine and shapes to embrace PIECES THAT DON’T combines comfort with their natural beauty NECESSARILY style. I aim to design and feel confident and FOLLOW TRENDS, pieces that don’t comfortable in what SO THEY CAN BE necessarily follow trends, they are wearing!

WORN OVER AND so they can be worn over Lastly, where can OVER AGAIN. and over again. With people find, try and the new range I wanted buy Apriche the label? to include wardrobe We currently have staples such as basic tees, a pop-up shop in everyday tops and casual pants.

Bellingen at 58 Hyde Street, you can shop Let’s talk production! How is it sustainably via our website: www.apriche.com and our made, and how do you go about producing Instagram @apriche.label and you can also find in the idyllic Indonesia? most pieces from the new range at Wrecked I work closely with a small, family owned Vintage in the Coffs CBD! I also offer a production house in Indonesia that I visit personalised shopping experience where I come regularly, and stay for most of the production to you, which is so fun! You can get together time. Our garments are produced in small with your friends, sisters, mums or just you and production runs, to ensure sustainable and I bring the clothes party to you! ethically made clothing, with as minimal Thanks Shanti.

Coffs Coast focus 7

focusinterview.

Many Coffs Coast locals will already know of Steve McEwan and his reptilian friends; you will likely have seen him at the Coffs or Bellingen Show with a snake, lizard or even a croc in tow! Steve has had a passion for reptiles since he was a small child, and he has managed to make a career out of being a reptile keeper at the Gosford Reptile Park, and then doing shows in our region after moving to the Coffs Coast.

A Passion for

H

is lifelong dream of opening his own Reptile World is being realised, as he is about to open his doors at the Big Banana Fun Park! We got Steve to

tell us all about it.

Hi Steve. What brought you to the Coffs Coast?

I grew up in the city, but always wanted to move to somewhere surrounded by nature. My family and I moved up here 23 years ago, and it has been a great place for the kids to grow up.

Some of the best times were had when I took the kids out into the bush looking for reptiles; there are just so many living things out there, if you know where to look! Coffs has some really great and diverse ecosystems. The rainforest virtually meets the ocean, and reptiles thrive in the different habitats, meaning we have many 8 Coffs Coast focus

THIS HAS BEEN MY

different species compared to other areas!

Your first encounter with a reptile was at a very young age; can you tell us about it?

My parents never knew what reptiles would be lurking in my room. I caught my first lizard at age five. I had a Green Tree Frog that used to live on top of my digital clock, enjoying the tiny bit of warmth, and I had my first pet snake by 10 years. My mother was nervous every time she cleaned my room, never knowing what she would find. It so happens I have passed this trait onto my kids, Macca and Sarah, who grew up with many different creatures as pets!

When did you realise your love of reptiles wasn’t just a hobby and could actually become a career?

The idea of working with reptiles became my passion, so when I turned 15 I got a job working at The Gosford Reptile Park with Eric Worrell. I was their youngest reptile keeper,

LIFELONG DREAM, AND I which allowed me to years, particularly with AM SO EXCITED TO work with some amazing champions such as David ANNOUNCE TO COFFS reptiles from Australia Attenborough and Steve LOCALS THAT THE and around the world.

Irwin bringing reptiles BIG BANANA WILL My most memorable into our lounge rooms BE HOME TO A GREAT encounter there involved through documentaries.

NEW EDUCATIONAL a Scrub Python, who was Can you share with EXPERIENCE THAT THE trying to shed its skin in a us one of the most WHOLE FAMILY WILL LOVE! swimming pool! interesting experiences Are there many others you’ve had involving in Australia that reptiles? specifically work with As a result of my reptiles? passion for reptiles, it is my wife who ends up Yes, there are many like-minded people having the interesting experiences. We had a out there! I have realised over the years that Diamond Python in Sydney called Bubba, and people often get frightened of reptiles, but one day he disappeared. A few days later, my the general public is more educated these wife called me to the bathroom, pointing to days and can appreciate reptiles more, finding a tiny black speck at the bottom of the toilet them exciting and interesting. The popularity bowl. I touched it with the toilet brush, and out of reptiles has been steadily increasing over the shot our 2 metre Diamond Python. Deb looked

focusinterview.

POOL DANGER A Python coils itself around naturalist Eric Worell and Stephen McEwan in 1976

at me and said, “I was just about to sit down!”

What is a common misunderstanding you find people have about certain types of reptiles?

The most common misunderstanding is that snakes chase you. In all likelihood, you are just standing where they want to go, either to get away from you or head to their home. If snakes chased you, I should have been caught a thousand times! Another belief is that venom from a snake bite is carried around your body in the blood stream. It actually goes through the lymph nodes, which is why a compression bandage is used in first aid, rather than a tourniquet.

We have a wonderful array of reptiles here on the Coffs Coast. What are some safety tips you can give our readers if they do happen to cross paths with some out in nature?

Be alert when you are out in the bush, as you are in their territory. Stand still if you come across a snake, until it has moved on, or back away if it is safe to do so. It is always handy to have a snake bite kit with you if you are out and about. If you have a snake in your home, you can call WIRES or check out Reptile World Rescue Facebook page for phone numbers you can call for assistance.

You have some really exciting news to share; you’re opening your own reptile park at the Big Banana. What has the process of getting this off the ground been like?

This has been my lifelong dream, and I am so excited to announce to Coffs locals that the Big Banana will be home to a great new educational experience that the whole family will love! It has been quite an exhaustive project, as I want it to be perfect for both the reptiles and the public. But, I think everyone will really enjoy it when they visit and hopefully leave with a new appreciation for our slithery and scaly friends.

What sort of experience do you think the

BE ALERT WHEN YOU

ARE OUT IN THE BUSH, AS locals and tourists will YOU ARE IN THEIR get out of the reptile TERRITORY. STAND park?

STILL IF YOU COME This is an innovative and ACROSS A SNAKE, exciting exhibit, where UNTIL IT HAS MOVED ON, visitors are able to get up OR BACK AWAY IF IT IS close and personal with SAFE TO DO SO. some of Australia’s unique and remarkable reptiles.

This is something new for Coffs and an added attraction at the Big Banana Fun Park for both locals and tourists to experience. Besides the awesome exhibits, visitors will also be able to get some great photos with Buddy the Blackheaded Python, Pat the Bearded Dragon and, if you’re lucky enough, Little Nipper the baby Salt Water Croc!

What plans do you have for the park in the future?

As a new venture, I have made it fairly compact; however, if Reptile World is a hit with the public, there is the potential to expand. We want everyone to visit and enjoy the experience. A lot of people around town are familiar with what I do, and I will still be making appearances at Coffs Harbour and Bellingen shows and other local events.

Thanks Steve.

Coffs Coast focus 9

focusinterview.

P H I L L I P S

Siblings Boston and Heilalas Phillips grew up travelling the world due to their father’s work, and when they settled in Sawtell only five years ago, they both developed an interest in surfing - heading out almost daily.

hey’ve recently had a very successful streak in some big competitions, competing against some very experienced surfers.

We think that considering their young age, how recently they became involved with the sport, and the fact that a brother and sister have both achieved such success is pretty impressive!

Hi guys; can you tell us about your history with the Coffs Coast?

We haven't always lived on the Coffs Coast, as our dad was a soccer coach, and that meant we were travelling all over the world for his work. But, we would always come back to Sawtell, as it was where our family were. Eventually we settled down in Sawtell to live in 2014; this is when we both got right into surfing.

You are both surfers, and both currently hold the titles for boys and girls Under 19s All Stars in the NSW Schools Division. How did it feel to have had such a successful competition?

Heilala: When I won the U19 All Schools Girls at State, I was so excited, because it then meant I was going to Nationals. But, my favourite part about winning was that when I came in from the water, I had all the Sawtell Boardriders members waiting on the beach for me to celebrate and congratulate me! Sawtell Boardriders have always been such a great support.

Boston: Winning contests is tough with 10 Coffs Coast focus

so many variables: other competitors, IT WAS SUPER FUN Mother Nature, all in COMPETING AT that 20 minute pressure SAWTELL, AS I PRACTICE Cansdell, and cooker! So, for the ON THAT BEACH EVERY current World stars to align was an DAY. IT WAS ALSO Qualifying Series amazing feeling! When REALLY GREAT TO (WQS) competitor the siren ended the HAVE A LOT OF LOCAL and eventual girls final, I was in the SUPPORT THROUGH winner Samson water about to start THE EVENT ...

Coulter, so I was the boys final, and proud of the then the commentator result. announced that the What was it like competing on your winner was my sister, so I was celebrating home turf at Sawtell? and didn’t realise my heat had started!

Heilala: It was super fun competing at But hearing Heilala had won, I knew I had Sawtell, as I practice on that beach every to win too - otherwise I would never live day. It was also really great to have a lot of it down! local support through the event.

You’ve both also recently entered the Boston: Competing at home is so Barney Miller Classic; how did you go? awesome, with friends, family and local Heilala: The Barney Miller is one of my sponsor Coopers cheering you on. It favourite competitions. I did two divisions; the U18 Girls and the Open Women’s, and inspires me, especially when I was the only Sawtell local in the final; it made me want I made it to the finals in both divisions. I to keep the trophy in my hometown. placed 3rd in the U18 Girls and 4th in the Barney would love that.

Open Women’s.

When did you both start surfing?

Boston: The “Barney” for me is such Heilala: I started surfing when I was an important comp, because of what eight, but I didn't really get right into it it represents, and Barney is such an until I was 13. inspiration to me and everyone in Sawtell, Boston: We were both introduced to so I always want to perform really well! surfing young, but Dad worked around That’s what Barney would want! the world, so we moved a lot, and at This year I got second in such a stacked times we were landlocked. But from field of competitors, with former World around 12 years of age we were close to Tour competitors Lee Winkler and Shaun

the beach and surfed all year round.

Have you always enjoyed going surfing together, or do you tend to get competitive?

Heilala: I love going surfing with Boston, because I think he is a really good surfer, so it's great to watch him so I can learn off him - because one day I want to be as good as him ... or even better!

Boston, you’re working as a lifeguard with Coffs Council. What made you decide to go down that path?

Boston: Growing up in Sawtell, our family spent every chance possible on the beach, so seeing the lifeguards do their thing, identifying the ocean threats, really inspired me.

I have learnt more about the ocean’s behaviour, which helps my contest strategies, and the need to maintain a level of fitness is only a good thing too.

Heilalas, you’re currently in your final year at school; do you think you’d be likely to accompany Boston, or have you got other plans for when you’re finished school?

Heilala: I have no plans for what I want to do when I finish school, but I definitely want to continue surfing and competing in surf competitions.

Thanks guys.

Coffs Coast focus 87

Kamla Ruthnam-Webb

Kamla Ruthnam-Webb was runner-up in the 2019 International Women's Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year awards, and we can see why! Her endless dedication to supporting other members of the community to reach their goals is nothing short of inspiring.

12 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

i Kamla. What's your relationship with the Coffs Coast?

I moved to the Coffs Coast with my parents when I was eight months old. I was born in Scotland, along with my brother. My mother was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, and my father Durban, South Africa. They both moved here for work. I love the Coffs Coast and would never leave.

You have volunteered your time mentoring young Indigenous people for the past few years; what led you into that role?

In 2010 I was studying a degree in business at Southern Cross University. I was doing this through correspondence, due to some personal issues.

My mother met a young man who was running the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME) at SCU at the time and she gave me his contact number, as she knew I wanted to volunteer for something in the community and thought this would be a good opportunity.

I contacted this person, Clark, and started volunteering as a mentor for AIME. After six months, it was decided to close the after school learning centres that I was volunteering for that ran in two locations every week in term time.

These centres supported the culture and education of Aboriginal children and young adults.

By this stage, Clark and I had formed a personal relationship, and our hearts were set on continuing with these Learning Centres, so we both volunteered to keep them running.

Clark left his job with AIME, and we continued running these centres while I worked and Clark worked tirelessly to find a way to continue them as a full-time job. This happened in 2013.

For the last eight and a half years I have continued to volunteer for the program and Clark has built the now not-for-profit organisation, Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation into an organisation which provides direct employment to over 16 casual and full-time staff, and education and cultural support to hundreds of Aboriginal children and young adults.

In March this year I have come on as an employee to train up some young adults for management roles within the organisation. This has allowed me to spend my extra time and resources on some other organisations in need. I will always continue to do more in my role here, as I believe in this organisation and the people in it more than anything.

You also volunteer weekly at a homework centre for Indigenous children; what do you do there?

The learning centres/homework centres gave so much to me, more than I gave to them.

Helping children do their homework, read and do cultural activities opened up a part in my life that I enjoyed the most. The learning centres focus on allowing our Aboriginal children to have that extra support they may need to keep up with school work. And more importantly, we offer cultural activities. Language revitalisation of the Gumbaynggirr language has been the main focus. There is a strong group of Aboriginal community teachers (which includes Clark, now

my husband) that are all supporting the learning of our young children, including teaching our five year old daughter.

Could you tell us about some of the other work you do?

In Coffs Harbour in general I meet a lot of young women who need assistance in other areas of their lives, not just what the learning centres can offer them. Some of these are from the programs, and others are not.

I am privileged enough to have been able to finish my education and further study in a Bachelor in Business, Certificate 3 and 4 in Personal Training, Certificate 3 in Training and Assessment and a Diploma in Practice Management. I understand that not all people get these opportunities and when I see, or am asked for help in supporting young people to up skill and learn in general about running a business, I always try to help.

I have also helped young adults in housing and other general school needs.

What do you enjoy most about your volunteer work?

I love working with young people, and I love working with the local Aboriginal Community.

I lived in Coffs Harbour for 24 years and knew nothing; I was naive.

When I met Clark and started volunteering, I learned so much about the local Gumbaynggirr community and the people in it, and it IT’S AN HONOUR TO opened up a whole other GO ON A JOURNEY world in Coffs Harbour that WITH PEOPLE WHO I never knew and I love so JUST NEED A LITTLE much.

SUPPORT AT CERTAIN What outcomes do you TIMES IN THEIR LIVES. and a certificate in hope to see from this work IT MAKES ME APPRECIATIVE safe food handling, you do?

EVERYDAY OF EVERYTHING she now works in our In paid work, and in the THAT I HAVE. not-for-profit café and volunteer work space, I hope catering. that more people offer their She used to be so time to help in local places in quiet; now she comes Coffs Harbour, whether it’s in and lights up our office with her smile and youth, general community or the elderly. giggles. I have always tried to make sure she feels For Aboriginal children and young adults in equal and that if she needs help with anything, this area, I would love to see, in support of my we fully support her to reaching her goals. My husband’s efforts, more Gumbaynggirr language role now is to train her up as our café manager. being taught and spoken; this is very important You won the runner-up award for the 2019 to my family.

International Women's Day Coffs Coast Can you tell us about a success story that Woman of the Year; how did that make you you’re really proud of? feel?

There are many young women who started in I want to say, "like passing out", as I was so the learning centres in 2010 and are still with us nervous. I was honoured to even be nominattoday. ed, humbled to be a finalist and shocked and In 2010 we had one young girl who was in touched to be the runner up. I like being private, Year 5 at Coffs Harbour Public School. Last year, so it has been hard for me to be on stage and she finished Year 12 at Orara High School. She even to be asked to be interviewed. Being at the fell behind at times, but we both worked International Women’s Day Breakfast was the together long nights to finish her assignments most nervous and anxious I have been in a very and hand in her work to complete Year 12 and long time, but it was so inspiring to hear and see graduate. She also works in our not-for-profit all the women who were involved. I promised café, Nyanggan Gapi at Sealy Lookout and also myself when I was nominated and now runner does some office work for us. She has developed up, that I would use this to help more people. I many skills, and we are stoked to have her now have done this with the money I won. work with us. We are looking at a traineeship or How did you end up being a part of the a study path she can take on now.

International Women’s Day awards?

We have another young adult who struggled I was nominated by my mother, with some with personal issues. In providing her with trainhelp from other community members. I never ing support for her to compete barista training

wanted recognition for helping anyone. My parents and general family play a major role in supporting me to support others. If it wasn’t for the selflessness and generosity of my parents growing up towards other people, I would not be who I am today. They are truly my inspiration especially my mother.

It’s an honour to go on a journey with people who just need a little support at certain times in their lives. It makes me appreciative every day of everything that I have.

For anyone else interested in volunteering their time, how would you suggest they get going?

Reach out to any community organisation; there are so many people and places that need help.

I think people get overwhelmed with thinking of putting themselves out there to help in some way. Don’t think that you need to give hours every week or lots of money to make a difference. Little bits for us, mean a lot to other people. We will always sit where we have more than others and also less than others. Any help is still help, no matter how much it is. It could even be paying the $2 short the person in front of the line in the supermarket is. Or, buying a fresh roll or coffee for someone who lives on the street. Just be aware of all the community in Coffs Harbour, not just the ones you associate with.

For any further help with volunteering, you can email me on info@bmnac.org.au Thanks Kamla.

Coffs Coast focus 13

focusinterview.

What’s all the buzz about Ohana Early Learning?

This month we welcome their new Scarba Street Centre Manager, Sarah Rothberg.

W

e know you are new to the role, but what are some of your favourite aspects of working at Ohana?

One of my favourite aspects would have to be working with the support of a team that’s guiding me into this new role. It’s so exciting. I feel a real sense of pride being part of a local family business that values children’s early learning.

And, I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.

What is the best thing about your job?

Definitely building relationships with our families.

Communities working together to support children through early childhood really resonates with me. Like the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child”. I pinch myself when I think how large a part we play in families’ lives, and this is something we can be so proud of. Also, my job is made so much easier by working alongside passionate, dedicated and amazing educators who really enjoy the work we do.

How do you keep your team motivated?

I listen, support, encourage and recognise that the hard work we do every day is so important. Making sure our team of educators know they have someone who will do all the above is key to keeping them inspired and motivated.

What do you like best about what Ohana offers 14 Coffs Coast focus

Understanding our

families? education and school emotions and having the Where do I start - I really love preparedness at your centre? ability to manage them this place! We offer childcare for For me, school readiness is is also an important children from six weeks to school more than being able to write factor in our preschool age in a safe, fun and inclusive your own name and count to curriculum. Check out our environment within our four centres 10. Yes, this is something we website. It has heaps more details across the Coffs Coast. practice, but it’s not all we focus on what the children learn in The children enjoy healthy on. For me, school readiness preparation for big school. nutritious meals prepared by our is also about showing respect in-house chef, and they get to learn for others and making friends. cooking too. We have beautiful Understanding our emotions outdoor environments where and having the ability to manage children can explore, climb, balance and share giggles them is also an important factor in our preschool with other children and our team. We love it when we curriculum. Check out our website. It has heaps more can share fun times and laughter with the kids. details on what the children learn in preparation for In your eyes, what makes Ohana stand out as an big school. early education setting?

Describe what Scarba Street offers families?

It would have to be the way that Ohana have Scarba Street offers our families a beautiful thought carefully about how to build a world-class environment with a team of specialised and dedicated centre from the ground up. The layout of the dedicated educators who have built strong, lasting relationships classrooms encourage interaction within our different with our families. We use an indoor outdoor program, age groups, and Ohana have worked with a landscape so children can move freely wherever their play might architect to design the natural outdoor spaces with take them. real grass, shade, and heaps of play equipment. The And, we offer a place where children feel safe, curriculum too, is amazing. It encourages children to supported and nurtured by spending their days play and explore using specially developed programs exploring and making magical memories. Why not give that are flexible, all the way up to preschool level. us a call and book in for a visit.

How do you address the need for preschool Thanks Sarah.

Looking for quality childcare in Coffs Harbour, Emerald Beach or Grafton?

• • • • • • •

Provider #PR-40000780 Provider #PR-40000780

We are family, a place to grow life skills and education are just the beginning...

Conveniently located across the Coffs Coast Locally owned & operated Caring from 6 weeks to school age Safe, small age appropriate spaces Architect designed natural playgrounds Chef prepared nutritional meals and snacks Qualified, caring & nurturing local staff

We are family, a place to grow life skil s and education are just the beginning... enrol your child now for 2019

Looking for

Call: 02 6656 4664 Online: www.ohanaelc.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 15

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

M A Y

725 Squadron Freedom of Entry

2 0 1 9

3

24

A helicopter training squadron adopted by Coffs Harbour will be exercising their rights to the city in a spectacular parade and community event. The Freedom of Entry is embodied in a ceremonial scroll that allows the bearer: "To enter the township of Coffs Harbour with weapons drawn, flags flying and drums playing".

When 24th April. Where Harbour Drive, Jetty Foreshore.

Time 10:30am until 1pm.

More information www.news.coffsharbour.nsw.gov. au/2019/04/08/community-invited-to-welcome-725-squadron

OUTA (Open Up To Art)

A theme-based artist run event which pushes the creative boundaries; it's offbeat, quirky and interesting. Exploring the question Y Art? ... artists are from a range of disciplines, including painters, sculptors, photographers, printmakers, and ceramicists.

When 3rd - 5th May. Where Bellingen and Urunga‘s Art Space.

More info For our timetable, follow us on Facebook and Instagram - OUTA, Bellingen Arts Network and Big Fig Arts.

360 ALLSTARS 360 ALLSTARS is a phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation. Boasting a stellar cast, including world champion athletes, world class dancers and world renowned musicians, the production connects the street with the elite to deliver a radical urban circus!

When 3rd May. Where Sportz Central, 74a Bray Street, Coffs Harbour.

Tickets www.jettytheatre.com.au

17

Coffs Harbour Show

Carnival rides and showbags, sky show spectacular, demolition derby, grand parade, family farmyard animals, produce and craft exhibition hall.

28

Cocktails & Vibes in the Vines

4

High Vibe Life Wellness Expo

Join us for a relaxing afternoon at Two Tails Wines. $10 tapas and $10 cocktails, whilst listening to live music. Our deck will be the perfect place to wind down for our Sunday sesh and enjoy the best Orara Valley sunset.

This event is a family friendly weekend to launch “High Vibe Life”. The Wellness Expo is an opportunity to be a part of this tribal wellness movement and will showcase the amazing therapists, practitioners, and products in and around Coffs Harbour that contribute to living a High Vibe Life.

When 28th April. Where Two Tails Wines.

More information Book now to reserve a table / lounge.

Call the Cellar Door on 6654 3633.

When 4th and 5th May. Where Toogetha, 36 Moonee Street, Coffs Harbour.

Cost Free entry.

16 Coffs Coast focus

When 17th to 19th May. Where Coffs Harbour Showground. Times Friday 4pm 10pm, Saturday 9am - 10pm, Sunday 9am - 3:30pm.

Cost Adult $15 (16 years and over), child $10 (5 - 15 years), aged pension $10 (please produce card), family pass $35 (two adults and two children 15 years and under).

More information www.coffsharbourshowsociety.com.au

31

Reece Plumbing Showcase Race Day 8 race TAB meeting, $240K prize money

When 31st May 2019 Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club Time 11:30 am until 5pm Cost $10

JOHNRowles VOICE OF A LEGEND

Sir

Born in Whakatane and raised in Kawerau, along with five sisters and one brother, John was a typical New Zealand kid, growing up in the fifties and sixties. He used to constantly listen to the records of The Platters, Brook Benton, Elvis Presley, Little Richard and many others of that era.

L

eaving school at 15 years of age, John started work as a lumberjack in the Kaingaroa Forest and played guitar on weekends with a band of old school mates at local dances.

A new adventure for John at 17 years was his arrival in Australia, working with Sydney band “The Sundowners”; his talent was immediately recognised by people in the

industry. Within months, John was working as a solo performer on television shows such as Bandstand and the Johnny O’Keefe Show under the name of “JR”. Creating a storm wherever he performed, it was quickly realised that the talents of John Rowles deserved to be not just local, but on the world’s stage.

Arriving in England in the late sixties, he recorded the smash single If I Only Had Time.

The song reached the top of the charts in Great Britain, New Zealand and Australia. He was just 20 years of age. Following, were top ten hits: Hush, not a Word to Mary, The Pain Goes On Forever, One Day and M’lady.

Next came the success of Cheryl Moana Marie, which John wrote for his younger sister and entered in the Brazilian song Festival held in Rio de Janeiro. It reached no. 5 position out of 42 countries and later, became no. 1 in Australia and New Zealand, plus a top 40 smash hit in the U.S.A. The song was also chosen by Unesco cultural and educational committee, for the World Book of Song.

At 22 years of age, John was the youngest performer to headline a major Las Vegas showroom. Head Line Reviews acclaimed him as possessing one of the strongest and richest voices they had ever heard.

With a deep resonance compared to none, John is a unique live performer and recording artist, with alluring looks, boundless Energy and outstanding versatility.

Since the mid-seventies. John has been a resident of Hawaii, where he had an eight year contract with the Royal Hawaiian Hotel’s Monarch Room, in which he won Hawaii’s highest entertainment award, “The No Ka Oi” accolade, meaning the best.

In 1980, he was awarded the O.B.E. for

his contribution to music and promotion of his country overseas. Since then, John has been a regular visitor to Australia, appearing at all major venues and television shows throughout the country. The current show features many of his classic hits, plus a variety of songs from Latin to opera and many of the great musicals, including Andrew Lloyd Webber, Riverdance and his own unique rendition of his native land Maori culture.

Acclaimed unanimously by audiences and critics alike as one of the finest performers in the world today, John Rowles brings his stunning stage presence and vocal talents to your venue.

We are pleased to announce as of June 2018 that John Rowles has been awarded with a Knighthood from Her Majesty the Queen of England for his contribution to the entertainment industry, along with his benevolent charitable involvement throughout his international career from his native country of New Zealand.

Where Friday 10th May at Sawtell RSL. Doors open at 7:30pm.

Tickets $35, available from www.sawtellrsl.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 17

focusinterview.

Kevin Hartley Coffs Harbour Polocrosse Club Kevin Hartley is the Vice President of the Coffs Harbour Polocrosse Club and has been involved with the club since its beginning. He was a horse trainer at the time, but polocrosse was new to him when he decided to join some of his mates, who wanted to start a club - and he has been dedicated to the club and the sport ever since!

H

ey Kevin. You're the Vice President of the Polocrosse Club here in Coffs. In a nutshell, what is polocrosse?

Polocrosse is a mix of Lacrosse and Polo (hockey on horseback).

In a Polocrosse game, each team has six players on horses separated into two sections of three players each. Players use the head of the polocrosse stick to carry, pass, catch, and shoot the ball into the goal.

It's a game where absolute control of your horse is a must, along with precise hand-eye coordination.

How long has polocrosse been on the Coffs Coast, and where did it all begin?

My involvement with polocrosse started 40 years ago, when I walked into the Coramba Hotel one Saturday afternoon and standing there at the bar were Colin Craze, Bill Mcglen, Barry Hayes and Wayne Prior.

“What are you doing tomorrow? We’re trying to start a Polocrosse Club in Coffs Harbour,” one of my mates said.

“I’d love to, but haven’t got a horse!” the other said.

“I’ve got a couple of horses, but no transport”...

I had a truck, as I was training horses at the time.

So, we arrived at the model craft airfields north of Moonee on the Sunday. We were hooked on the sport straight away - and the rest is history! I’ve been involved ever since; I love the sport. We made that area our home grounds.

The club’s first meeting was held at The Plantation Hotel. Club President, Secretary, Treasurer etc. were elected. We held our first carnival in August that year, with the help of The New England Zone Clubs:

18 Coffs Coast focus

Armidale, Guyra, Inverell, Horses are one of the main ONE OF THE FUN PARTS OF Grafton, Macksville, and of parts of the sport. Is there a POLOCROSSE IS CAMPING course, Coffs Harbour. specific breed of horse that AND SITTING AROUND THE The club is now located at is used?

CAMPFIRE HAVING A YARN, Nana Glen; when did you The quality of polocrosse WITH THE KIDS LISTENING move to that location? horses has reached a very high IN. THERE IS SO MUCH I After a number of carnivals standard over the years, the COULD SAY ABOUT THIS held at what we called Australian Stock Horse being the GREAT SPORT AND THE Kumbaingeri, the grounds and main type of horse used. Many PEOPLE I HAVE MET. weather took its toll, and we people are breeding the ASH looked for a new venue. That’s specially for polocrosse. when we found the Nana You have a carnival scheduled Glen Showgrounds. After many months of removing for May; can you tell us a bit about it and any stumps and levelling and re-seeding the ground, Nana other upcoming events for the sport?

Glen Sports Recreation and Equestrian Centre, as it is Coffs Harbour holds two carnivals a year, with our now known, became the home of the Coffs Harbour main carnival this year being May 25th and 26th Polocrosse Club Inc. at the Nana Glen grounds, attracting clubs from Do you have to have much experience in horse the Tablelands and South East Queensland. Then in riding to compete in polocrosse?

September we host the NSW Masters, with players We have had players who haven’t ridden a horse traveling from Victoria, NSW, Queensland and New before but have wanted to start playing because of Zealand. Visitors are often jealous of our facilities at their partners’/friends’ involvement with the sport, so the picturesque Nana Glen Sports Recreation and we were able to find the right horse for them - and Equestrian Centre! they have ended up doing really well.

Australia will also play host to the World Cup of What is the age range of your members and who Polocrosse to be held in Warwick, QLD in late April, can play? where teams from various countries will compete on It is a family sport, with players’ age groups ranging horses supplied from Australia. from Subbies five - 12 years, Juniors 12 - 16 years, What do you love most about polocrosse?

Intermediates 16 - 21 years, Opens, Women’s, and Probably the community. One of the fun parts of also Masters. So, almost anyone really! polocrosse is camping and sitting around the campfire Polocrosse is played all over Australia. How do having a yarn, with the kids listening in. There is so some of the Coffs players fare? much I could say about this great sport and the people Many of our members over the past years have I have met. played for their zone, NSW and Australia.

Thanks Kevin.

Celebrate Mother’s Day b Sunday 12 May

WIN PRIZES

for your Mum! Download our FREE Rewards App and play daily to WIN! u .com.a

ll det

u 0. See f

*Terms

and co

rise

o ly. Auth

s app ndition

ber

it num

r perm d unde

/0331 TPM/18 L W S N

laza beachp k r a .p ww ails at w

Coffs Coast focus 19

Sam Dawson of PFLAG Coffs Coast.

I never thought parents could be subjected to homophobia because of their offspring’s sexual orientation. How wrong I was!

B

eing gay, lesbian or bisexual is as natural and healthy as being heterosexual. For the 10% (approximately) of Australians who are gay, lesbian or bisexual and transgender, it is a natural part of who they are.

Prior to the 1950s, homosexuality was treated by psychiatrists as a disorder.

Thank goodness that times have changed,

20 Coffs Coast focus

and today homosexuality is accepted as a legitimate and psychologically healthy expression of human sexuality. Of course, we still have people's attitudes, and often it is a whole family who can experience homophobia.

I know many people in the LGBTIQ community, and I know that they tire of having to explain their sexuality at many social occasions. I have found this is true as a parent of a gay son too. It is without

warning and in a social setting, and it enormous. goes beyond people being curious. I have Just as "coming out" is difficult for the had comments such as, “Will your son LGBTIQ community, the coming-out process marry? Will they have children? If not, do is equally difficult for parents. Many, you feel ripped off not experiencing being upon learning their child is gay, lesbian or grandparents? You guys are great the way bisexual, go right into the closet. As they you accept this! I am not sure I could handle struggle with accepting their child's sexual that at all! We understand why your other orientation, they often worry about other son acted up at school having that 'issue' in people finding out. your home".

You may get some negative or, at the least, I can relate to individuals being drilled with insensitive comments from relatives, friends all types of questions, and or co-workers. But, it’s absolutely bizarre, as you'll probably find that no-one routinely asks a those comments are heterosexual person their fewer than you now Just as 'coming out' bedroom details? fear. is difficult for the Over the years, Talk to people who LGBTIQ comunity, discussions between understand your the coming-out Parents, Families and concerns. Remember, process is equally Friends of Lesbians your child or loved one difficult for parents. and Gays (PFLAG) have has been down this revealed the following: road already. They may • People are often even be able to help! aware of their sexual PFLAG members may orientation at a very early age, heterosexual be helpful to you in discussing their own or homosexual. experiences too.

• None of the children were influenced or And remember, who you tell about your taught to be gay, lesbian or bisexual by any child's sexuality should be a decision both other person. of you to discuss and reach together, as • Family fears of "catching" homosexuality a matter of respect. After all; it's their life or being "recruited" are without scientific you're discussing. pflagcoffscoast.com foundation. These fears are irrational and in PFLAGcoffcoast families where homosexual children try to 0417 861 045 deny their sexuality, the ramifications can be

East Cabinets Mr.Coast Plummer is upon us, and is the time to organise I Christmas am Brad Plummer, owner and now operator of Mr Plummer.

I your Christmas and New Year activities and whilst on started my plumbing career back in 2002, where I moved holidays (for those who get them) to Coffs Harbour from the Manning Valleytotostart start planning my for all those jobs required local building apprenticeship.

I remained with in the2019. same The company for 13 years, industry is ticking overtonicely, andown everyone is predicting until I knew it was time start my plumbing Business. I more good Wow!!

Asthings I work writefor thisnext the year. firstthe quarter the year believe in hard and putting clientsofneeds first.is over and Easter and Anzac Day are upon us.

Fortunately theI have We live greatyear partasofa New South Walesand and hopefully Now intoinmya 15th plumber, drainer gasfitter NSW State Elections are over and Federal Elections are others from anywhere else will realise thatofthey seen it all, which gives me a quick prognosis the can problem and not to that farus. away ending a lot of uncertainty for both move join arrivals from big smoke” the best way to fixNew it, which saves the “the customer time andare money. businesses andmuch individuals. amazed at how they can do in a day, as they are not At Mr Plummer we are always trying to exceed our customers The lasthours two weeks have seen a significant increase spending per day travelling to and from work, giving expectations. in enquiry and new jobs coming into the system.

It is them more time to enjoy family time, the climate and I environment, provide a service that includes rapid response to emergency heart-warming to see people out and about with smiles as well as our sporting facilities. work, arefaces polite and well mannered, and always clean up on we their and looking to the future.

A growing population supporting locally owned businesses after our work is completed which is notataour common plumbing More and more people are looking improved web and services result in a growing economy. What more is trait. site which is heartening. The number of photos displayed there to wish for? increasing andtonew being added they We isare keeping up dateones withare regulations, andas technologies.

To become all the wonderful builders and customers who have available.

If you have any questions or require Some of our new equipment is cutting the time to do jobs down supported us throughout the year, a big thank you for your further information please us. to you, the client. to half, which we can pass the contact savings on support, patience and friendship especially when things Thank you to our wonderful customers for supporting us There is no job or small, callyear. me Mr Plummer today, your gottochaotic intoo thebig middle of that the date this year.

We trust you are making the most Coffs Harbour plumber.

Best to or everyone forcabinetwork a very happy Christmas a of wishes your new modified and that yourand life is healthy muchand moreprosperous enjoyable. New Year from all of us.

East Coast Cabinets

instalike

96 Coffs Coast focus

Voodoo Auto Electrical and Caravan Voodoo AutoRepairs.

Electrical Locally based, reliable, and dedicated are all readily used to Michael is originally from Darwin and was taken on many describe Michael, the man behind Voodoo Auto Electrical camping and four wheel driving trip with his family. Some and Caravan Repairs. This month he is celebrating a few key of his best childhood memories were exploring the off milestones. road parts of Australia.

IN BUSINESS: Two strong years of experience and development He completed his auto electrical apprenticeship in Forster, later as a business owner and operator. The continued growth has been moving to Coffs Harbour. driven by a genuine reputation built on effort and integrity. As well Working at Watson's caravans he developed skills and as the support of his family and the local community. understanding of the needs of campers and caravan goers PERSONALLY: The beginning of married life with wife Melissa needs. He appreciates that this is your home away from home. and soon the arrival of their first baby. The BIg Blue Hilux got a Everything needs to run simply, efficiency and reliably. He will good run exploring Fraser Island for their Honeymoon, where she give honest advice based on experience and research. learnt to four wheel drive and didn’t get bogged at Inskip Point!

His many services are fully mobile soofyou can stay ininyour home or The outdoor adventures his childhood Australia’s caravan park enjoying your holiday while Michael does the work diverse top end have instilled a love of camping and four wheel on site. driving, bike riding, and fishing. Which he is sharing with his growing family Workshop facilities are available when required.

He is equally passionate gettingtoyour family on or people, off road Michael " I love what I about do, getting meet different for your nexttheir trip safely reliable set on up,the firstroad time." hear about travelswith andakeep them He to the you name... to complete your job with quality materials Tellwill uscome about and equipment, drawing 10 years of experience in the industry.

Michael - Voodoo Auto on Electrical came about as an accident.

One of Michael my customers commented that had auto doneelectrical "some kind of Contact on 0481 335 988 for all Iyour voodoo magic to their vehicle when fixing it " needs and related caravan repairs.

Follow the action on Facebook at Voodoo Auto Electrical

Coffs Coast focus 83 Coffs Coast focus 21

New winter menu available at “The Palms” Toormina Hotel.

22 Coffs Coast focus

focus

DISHES of the month

BEACHHOUSE CAFE

PLANTATION HOTEL

Crispy Skin Barramundi, grilled sweet potato, green beans, blistered cherry tomatoes w/ smokey red pepper aioli.

Crunchy Chicken Wings with hot chilli sauce.

COAST HOTEL

PIG & KHAI

Peanut Butter Parfait with chocolate ganache, peanut brittle and caramel popcorn.

Chick’N Cone - honey glazed chicken in a waffle cone.

ELEMENT BAR

TWO TAILS

Crispy Chicken Wings, slow braised bbq smoked beef ribs, mushroom and pistachio arancini, flavoured crisp breads & dips, rustic sweet potato fries and a selection of fresh sliders.

Berry Bliss - a berry and white chocolate mousse on a white chocolate mud cake with berry coulis and sugar floss.

Coffs Coast focus 23

focusinterview.

marguerite

hackett

Down Under farm

Marguerite and Tom Hackett have owned and operated Kiwi Down Under Farm in Bonville since the 1980s, one of Australia’s most successful and longest running biodynamic farms! As they get close to retiring from the farm, we asked Marguerite about what it has meant to them, THE PROCESS BEHIND THEIR CHOICES AND THE VARIOUS WAYS THEY HAVE DIVERSIFIED THE FARM over the years to make it one of the Coffs Coast’s most long-standing and versatile businesses.

H

i Marguerite. Can you tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast?

It was 1982 and newly married, Tom and I set off to look for a new town and community to call home and to raise our children. We travelled all over, but the Coffs Harbour area won our hearts.

During our trip, we happened upon a beautiful valley, and we just stopped and looked at this amazing property.

It wasn’t until six months later that we returned and walked into a real estate agent to describe this stunning property we had seen.

To our amazement, this property had just been listed, and this agent we walked into randomly was the sole agent!

You and your husband, Tom, own and run Kiwi Down Under Farm, which is one of the longest running certified organic and biodynamic farms in Australia. What led you into biodynamic farming? Why did you choose this method over others?

Tom had some experience with farming, but he asked the Ag Department for advice, and they recommended we plant kiwifruit. So we did but to our horror, we were then advised to use over 26 chemical sprays on our crop. When we questioned this practice, the answers were not clear. The Ag Department advised that our crops would fail if we didn’t use chemicals.

We were uncomfortable with what we were hearing, yet we had planted a very expensive crop and if it failed, we were looking at losing our farm. Some of the chemicals we were advised to use had safety holding periods of two weeks, yet fruit covered in them could be in kids’ lunch boxes within days! We had the philosophy that 24 Coffs Coast focus

we would only grow and sell food that we would want to eat, so our search on how to grow quality commercial food without chemicals began.

Can you explain what biodynamic farming is to our readers?

Biodynamics is an extension of organic farming. Both practices are organic, but biodynamic has a much deeper philosophy behind it. Initially developed in 1924 by Rudolf Steiner, it was the first of the organic agriculture movements. It excludes the use of artificial chemicals on soil and plants. It also brings in an awareness of the whole farm and the environment around you, not just focusing on a single crop.

This made sense to us. The birds, bees, insects, trees, bushes, water; all have a purpose, and we had to work out how to fit into this environment and make it even better - being sustainable and improving our land with respect for the environment and showing appreciation for all life on this planet.

Going biodynamic was not common in the farming industry when you began. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced?

The biggest challenge was lack of information on how to do what we wanted to do. We were trailblazers, so we had to apply the principles of sustainability we had learned from biodynamics and then get creative.

What types of fruit and vegetables do you grow on the farm? And do you also keep animals on the farm?

Our farm not only grows kiwifruit; we expanded into many crops of different fruits, nuts, garlic and some vegetable crops.

We introduced a flock of sheep, who helped

manage the grass under the macadamia trees.

Doctors were starting to send patients who We have also had goats, chickens, geese and wanted chemical free food, and we realised that ducks, and there has been a succession of there was a need for people to have somewhere beautiful farm dogs who have helped us over the healthy to eat. We ran the “Teahouse”, our years. restaurant, for 14 years. We also offered a home Over the years you have also run farm tours delivery service of certified organic produce and and education programs; why was this groceries. important to you?

We decided to close the Teahouse in 2007. It Once they realised we had done what was was so successful, it took up a lot of our time, thought to be impossible, the Ag Department and we decided to refocus on farm and family. started conducting workshops on our farm as Kiwi Down Under, and yourself Marguerite, an example of good have been recognised organic practices and with many different used KDU as a case study awards over the years, in at least eight of their and KDU is a wonderful books. Universities started example of turning Our farm has touched to run events here too, a small farm into a many lives in a positive and several papers were thriving local business. way, where visitors have taken a published about the farm.

What advice would you little bit of KDU philosophy home School groups, social give to others looking with them with thoughts on how clubs and groups wanted in to starting something they too can change their world farm tours too, so our like it? for the better. farm diversified into agriOur farm has been a tourism. We thought it wonderful life experience was important to teach for not only our family, people about where their but to extended family food came from and that their decisions on what and relatives. It took this city girl and turned her they purchased and ate had impacts on their into one of the “North Coast Rural Women of health and the environment. the Year”; how unexpected is that? Our farm You also opened a certified organic has touched many lives in a positive way, where teahouse, which was probably one of the visitors have taken a little bit of KDU philosophy first “paddock to plate” establishments home with them with thoughts on how they too in the region. How did that idea come can change their world for the better. The time about? And why did you decide to close the has now come for us to say goodbye to KDU, teahouse? and we are hoping for new energy, new owners, Our crops flourished, and soon people were to come and buy our farm and make it their own. hearing about our farming methods and coming My advice: follow your heart and your to our farm to buy our organic produce. (Organic passions! produce was so hard to find in those days).

Thanks Marguerite.

Coffs Coast focus 25

26 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

Tony Jones, or TJ as many locals know him as, USED TO OWN THE PLANTATION HOTEL WITH HIS FAMILY IN THE MID ’90S AND IS NOW BACK THERE DOING HIS THING AS THE GENERAL MANAGER. TONY HAS ALSO SPENT TIME AS A FITNESS COACH AND LOVES TO GET OUT AND TRAIN, fitting in as much adventure sport as he can along the way! i Tony. Can you tell us about your What was the feeling like hopping off the helicopter with connection with the Coffs Coast? your bike and looking down at the track?

My connection with the Coffs Coast started Unbelievable, and scary as hell! There is no other way of getting in 1994, when in partnership with my family we down, but you and your bike and 3,000 metres of single track. bought the Plantation Hotel. I spent six years How much training or experience did you have with mountain here in my first stint, before moving away to the biking before you went?

Gold Coast. We moved back in 2007, and have been here ever since.

I try to get out on the mountain bike and hit the tracks around You owned the Plantation Hotel from 1994 - 1998, and you are Coffs as often as I can, and also train down at Legion Fit every other now back there as the General Manager. How is it being back? day, but the mountains and the tracks here don’t prepare you for the Yes, that’s right. I owned the Planto back then, and it’s been a sheer size of the mountains over there. massive round trip to be back here again. Some things have changed When you’re dropping 1,500 metres on to a track as wide as your obviously, but if I can bring that old style pub front wheel, it gets a bit scary! feeling again with a little flair, we will be on the What would be your ideal adrenaline right track. adventure?

What has changed about the hospitality You can’t get much better than a little trip industry on the Coffs Coast from then to over the ditch, with a bit of everything on THE MOUNTAINS now? offer: mountain biking, hiking glaciers, skyAND THE TRACKS Gee, a lot has changed in the industry over diving, and bungee jumping.

HERE DON’T the years - not all of them for the better. The Taking on adventures like this requires you PREPARE YOU FOR core part of our industry will always be the to be quite fit, and we hear you’re quite THE SHEER SIZE OF same, but it is harder to make your business into your fitness.

What role has fitness THE MOUNTAINS profitable now with all of the new laws and played not only in your personal life, but OVER THERE. WHEN how much it costs to implement them. That’s your working career as well?

YOU’RE DROPPING just part of the industry now, and we do our Mate, I love to stay as fit as I can and 1,500 METRES ON TO best to still keep costs down and try to make it workout whenever I have a spare minute. I A TRACK AS WIDE affordable for our patrons. have a few workouts that I do when I’m time AS YOUR FRONT What are a few things you have in store poor, but I always try to get in some sort of WHEEL, IT GETS A moving forward? fitness routine each day.

BIT SCARY! We have just finished finalising our new I’ve been involved in the fitness industry menu, and the few changes we have already for a number of years, coaching CrossFit and introduced are working really well. The working with a number of local sporting teams live entertainment on Thursday, Friday and as a strength and conditioning coach (I’m sure Saturday nights, in conjunction with all our new craft beers and there are a few guys out there who hate me for all the things I’ve cocktails, are killing it. made them do), but I love it, and I love to see results in other people We have found out you are somewhat of an adrenaline junkie as well. and have recently taken a trip to New Zealand. How was the You’ve taken up a new hobby from a find in the back room of trip, and what did you get up to? the hotel. What is it?

Ha ha! Yes, a bit of an adrenaline junkie ... The trip to NZ was Well, it sounds kinda silly, but all these years and I had never stood awesome; that place is absolutely spectacular. Between mountain on a skateboard, then I was cleaning out the storeroom at the Planto biking and hiking with a few beers thrown in between, the trip and there were a few old boards in there ... so, I thought I’d take was about relaxing and enjoying the things you just can’t do here them home for my kids. Well, one thing led to another, and I found in Australia. Really hard to explain how small you feel amongst the myself down at South Wall having a go myself! And yes, I love it! I mountains over there; we trekked upwards for two hours to the grab my little mate, Scruff, and we head down there every morning foot of a glacier, and you are really only a quarter of the way up - it’s now - I’m still hopeless, but getting better! amazing!

Thanks Tony.

Coffs Coast focus 27

THE COFFS COAST GIG GUIDE Benny Black - Element Bar Sabotage & DJ Rjay - The Coast Hotel

Cocktails Craft & Acoustic with Owen Shannon The Coast Hotel

DJ Marcus from 8pm - Toormina Hotel

12TH MAY

2ND MAY

The Smileys and D’BOYZOS - Coramba Hotel

Sali Bracewell - Element Bar

Billie-Jo Porter - Element Bar

3RD MAY

Mothers Day - UFC 237 - Toormina Hotel

Dean Sharkey - Element Bar

15TH MAY

DJ Bisho & DJ Flak3y - The Coast Hotel

Jacob Murray - Element Bar

Quick Fix - Sawtell RSL 360 ALLSTARS - Sportz Central

Cocktails Craft & Acoustic with Billie-Jo Porter The Coast Hotel

4TH MAY

16TH MAY

Jaxon Pollard - Element Bar

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

Cranky Duck & DJ Jimmy Laing - The Coast Hotel

17TH MAY

Shrek The Musical Running til 26th - Jetty Theatre

Afi James - Element Bar

Just Like That - Coramba Hotel

18TH MAY

Peter Barry - Element Bar

Kenny Slide - Element Bar

5TH MAY

FFS COAST

E

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

CO

TH

1ST MAY

9 MAY 201

TGIF! with DJ Bisho & DK Reti - The Coast Hotel

Family Fun Day, featuring The Smileys with Michael Pink Zinc & DJ Flak3y - The Coast Hotel Bryers - Toormina Hotel 19TH MAY

8TH MAY

Damion Towner - Coramba Hotel

Josh Matheson - Element Bar

Saije - Element Bar Cocktails Craft & Acoustic with Jaxon Pollard - The Jazrol - Toormina Hotel Coast Hotel 22ND MAY

9TH MAY

Rachel Laing - Element Bar

10TH MAY

Benji & the Saltwater Sound System - Element Bar Cocktails Craft & Acoustic with Josh Matheson The Coast Hotel

DJ Bisho & DJ Rjay - The Coast Hotel

Vena Klymo - Element Bar

Chris Grieve - Element Bar

Cocktails Craft & Acoustic with Sarah Grant - The Coast Hotel

25TH MAY

The Glamstars & DJ Blakey - The Coast Hotel

30TH MAY

Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar

23RD MAY

26TH MAY

DJ Bisho & DJ Rjay - The Coast Hotel

Peter Barry - Element Bar

J & R Rhythm & Blues - Coramba Hotel

31ST MAY

Josh Matheson - Element Bar

Scott Day-Vee - Element Bar

Sir John Rowles - Sawtell RSL

11TH MAY

28 Coffs Coast focus

24TH MAY

Dean Sharkey - Element Bar

29TH MAY

Madelyn - Element Bar

DJ Bisho & DJ Reti - The Coast Hotel

Coffs Coast focus 29

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY 10 MAY – 13 JULY

CONTEMPORARY INDIGENOUS CERAMICS FROM REMOTE AUSTRALIA

Elizabeth Dunn at the studio, photograph by Rhett Hammerton, courtesy of Sabbia Gallery

CLAY STORIES

CONTEMPORARY ARTWORKS IN CERAMICS CREATED BY ESTABLISHED AND EMERGING INDIGENOUS ARTISTS IN REMOTE PARTS OF REGIONAL AUSTRALIA.

NATIONAL STILL LIFE AWARD 2OI9

IT’S BACK! ENTRIES: NOW OPEN, CLOSES 10 JUNE 2019 EXHIBITION: 20 SEPTEMBER – 16 NOVEMBER 2019

coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/still

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY OPEN TUESDAY–SATURDAY 10AM–4PM FREE ADMISSION CNR COFF & DUKE STREETS \ COFFS HARBOUR  02 6648 4863  coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/gallery  facebook.com/coffsharbourregionalgallery  instagram.com/coffsharbourregionalgallery Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is a cultural facility of Coffs Harbour City Council

30 Coffs Coast focus

With Madonna Bannerman, Owner of Two Tails Wines, Nana Glen.

wine month of the

BLACK VELVET

If you like a sweeter style of red wine, “Black Velvet” is for you! Grown and sold at the Award winning Two Tails Winery at Nana Glen, this wine demonstrates individuality.

A

blend of Chambourcin and Jacquez (Le Noir) grapes grown at the vineyard, this wine displays both varietal styles to perfection. With the combination of distinctive dark colouring, herbaceous aromas and black cherry, plum flavours of the Chambourcin, to the lush fruit sweetness of the Jacquez grapes, “Black Velvet” is created.

Perfect with family and friends at a BBQ, or sit back and unwind after a hard day with this lush and deliciously sweet, mellow red wine.

CHARACTERISTICS: This wine presents deep red colours with berry driven aromas. Ripe and lush, this wine is bursting with black cherry and plum flavours for a soft and

of The smooth finish. Low in tannin with a hint of oak.

GOES WITH: game, Peking duck, BBQ ribs, gourmet sausages and grills. A match made in heaven with dark chocolate or blue cheese.

COST: $35.

AVAILABLE: Two Tails Winery Cellar Door, 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen NSW. Open seven days a week, 10:30am 4:30pm; Saturday and Sunday from 8am.

Phone: (02) 6654 3633.

Email: admin@twotailswines.com.au

Chocolate Martini

It’s the season for cooler nights, comfort food, the Easter Bunny and of course ... chocolate! Just in time, the crew at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty strip have whipped up an absolutely delicious Easter gem to take care of your choc cravings. With a creamy blend of vanilla vodka, milk chocolate liqueur, Brookie’s new macadamia liqueur and a healthy sprinkling of milk chocolate flakes, this is one that’s sure to keep you and the Easter Bunny smiling !

PLUMBING SHOWCASE

RACE DAY

FRIDAY MAY 31 8 RACE TAB MEETING $240k PRIZE MONEY

GATES OPEN 11am - $10 ENTRY

Coffs Coast focus 31

7 community invited to welcome

725

SQUADRON R O Y A L

A U S T R A L I A N

N A V Y

The 725 Squadron, adopted by Coffs Harbour, will be exercising their rights to enter the city in a spectacular parade and community event through Harbour Drive and the Jetty Foreshore precinct on Wednesday, April 24, with the parade stepping off from 11am.

The community is invited to come along and witness the spectacle.

JETTY FORESHORES

24 APRIL 2019

25 Squadron, which operates from “The Freedom of Entry activity is one steeped the Naval Air Station at Nowra, is a in history and custom that has been undertaken training unit for maintenance and

by Navies for centuries. This practice is a physaircrew on the MH-60R Seahawk ical demonstration of the connection between "Romeo" naval combat helicopters. a municipality and the military unit, allowing The Squadron was first formed in the Royal a parade through the city with drums beating Australian Navy (RAN) more than 50 years ago and colours flying,” said Craig Castle LCDR, and has a history in the Royal Navy stretching RAN Executive Officer 725 Squadron. back to 1943. In 2012, the unit was re-estab“The members of 725 Squadron are excited lished by the RAN. to participate with the local community of Coffs “Coffs Harbour Harbour and illustrate the adopted 725 Squadron unique nature of our relain 2015, which was very tionship and that of naval positively supported by service.” members of local RSL The Parade will begin on AN EVENT SUCH AS A sub branches and ReHarbour Drive at 11am and FREEDOM OF ENTRY turned and Ex-Services head along Marina Drive.

CEREMONY GIVES THE Clubs in the region,” During the parade the WIDER COMMUNITY said Coffs Harbour MaySquadron will be chalTHE OPPORTUNITY TO or, Councillor Denise lenged by the Police Local ENJOY AND BE A PART Knight.

Area Commander, before OF THIS PARTNERSHIP. “An event such as a exercising their right of Freedom of Entry cerFreedom of Entry along emony gives the wider with Aircraft Flyovers. community the opportuThe parade will end at nity to enjoy and be a part of this partnership. the spectacular Jetty Foreshore event space, “As it will be the school holidays, this is a where Council will be hosting a free community great chance for the younger members of our event along with a free sausage sizzle, a variety community to watch the parade, come along to of Naval activities, jumping castle, face painting the free community event and take part in Navy and a special Live Navy Band Performance at activation activities.” the conclusion of the parade. We hope to see The Freedom of Entry ceremony will begin you there! with the Squadron forming up with uniform For more information, head to: https://www. and weapon inspections at 11am in front of the coffscoast.com.au/event/725-squadron-navyPier Hotel. freedom-of-entry-free-community-event/

725

of BE

AG GRES SIV

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY E

FREEDOM ENTRY !

T N E V E Y IT N U M M O FREE C CELEBRATE & COMMEMORATE OUR DEFENCE FORCE

FROM 11AM TO 1PM

NAVY PARADE & FLYPAST NAVY BAND PERFORMANCE FREEDOM OF ENTRY CHALLENGE NAVAL ACTIVITIES FREE SAUSAGE SIZZLE FACE PAINTING & JUMPING CASTLE For more information and event map visit coffscoast.com.au/freedomofentry

32 Coffs Coast focus

?

Coffs Coast focus 33

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Regional Australia Bank Sawtell Launch

Regional Australia Bank Sawtell Launch

Regional Australia Bank Sawtell Launch

Regional Australia Bank Sawtell Launch

Regional Australia Bank Sawtell Launch

John David, Mayoress Danise Knight, Adam Wood, Jodi Wood

Nick Waters, Julieta Stewart, Josh Patricks, Lauren Potter, Nat Nael, Joanna Clay, Nathan Hansford

Mick, Sue, Michaela

Brittany, Ethan, Sharnae

C

offs Coast FOCUS did not exist, and they were sending up Kim Gould as editor to kick start the publication in this area. The very idea of a brand new glossy magazine for the Coffs Coast was super exciting, and I was honoured to be part of it! Nicci Seccombe (now Edition Coordinator) and I were here first, and a few have come and gone and come back! Sam Dawson has returned, and we have Gavin Moroney as our amazing photographer, and the lovely Bec Platts has just joined the team. All these years later, here we are ... bigger and bolder than ever; we are up to our 104th edition, and I still have the same passion and pride to be part of this amazing team as I did when it was launched! Go FOCUS ...

Talking about launches, Sawtell is a hive of activity as usual. Marleys Beach Shack is another new business to launch just recently and is definitely a dream come true for Kelly Ticehurst and Cam Nealer. They have both wanted to own their own place, and this is definitely the place to be! They are so ready for this, with both of them having over 15 years’ experience in the hospitality industry! They are determined to bring their passion and love into this new venture. Make sure you check out this chilled new venue in sunny Sawtell on our fabulous Coffs Coast. We enjoyed sam34 Coffs Coast focus

social scene.

I can remember the very day that I was approached to write for FOCUS by Louise and Jay Beaumont from Head Office at Port Macquarie ... pling all the delicious dishes, but make sure you try either their gourmet hotdogs or pizzas, with a great vegetarian selection.

The Coffs Coast has a wide variety of sports you can be involved in, no matter what your age is or how fit you are. Such a choice for one and all, and no one has to travel too far. For something different to golf, bowls or tennis, Sawtell has a great little Croquet Club, which is situated inside the Sawtell Holiday Park. They recently enjoyed three days of Ricochet Carnival, held at the Sawtell Croquet Club. The carnival was a huge success as always, with visitors arriving from Southport and Ballina in the north, to Forster, Toronto, Newcastle and Coogee in the south. Players were divided into three blocks, with two round robin events five games level play, then five games handicap play. The two events were married together to get overall winners. Sawtell’s Carnivals are popular in the croquet world - the club will host a golf croquet event in August and an association event in October.

FOCUS attended another great event at the Coffs Harbour Surf Club just recently. The function was to celebrate the homecoming of Coco and Diva.

The room was set, and let’s face it - the views from the Surf Club are nothing short of sensational. On arrival, there was a delicious grazing table for the guests to enjoy before dinner. This was

a dinner and show extravaganza event for sure!

Coco Jumbo and Honey Moonshine are sisters, and they’re superb entertainers. Coco Jumbo is the local Coffs legend who won Coffs Coast Drag Idol and moved to Sydney to become a huge success. Honey Moonshine also moved to Sydney and appears regularly in shows all over the city.

They were joined by Polly Petrie, who is the mama of all the Sydney drag queens and was in Les Girls. Joining them was also the fabulous Glorious Mountains. What a fun night it was! Congratulations to Tod Trappett for organising such a great event!

Another launch party that FOCUS attended was when the Regional Australia Branch opened its new lending office on First Avenue in Sawtell.

Guests included members of the Sawtell and Coffs Harbour Business Chambers, local Council, businesses and existing customers, who enjoyed drinks and canapés from Split Café and Espresso Bar. Coffs Harbour City Mayor Denise Knight helped conduct the official opening, alongside Regional Australia Bank CEO Kevin Dupe and staff. The Sawtell office marks the first official “bricks and mortar” presence on the Coffs Coast.

The new location on the Coffs Coast brings with it a style of banking that reflects regional Australian values - an appreciation for a relationship that re-built on trust and reliability, with an under-

standing of the significance of community and the feeling of unity and belonging. The bank will be supporting the 2019 Chilli Festival, along with other local events.

I attended the Key Employment opening of their brand new facility at the old Catholic Club on West High Street in Coffs Harbour. This is a new community centre, which will see Key Employment expand their great work on the Coffs Coast.

In addition to KE’s employment service, they are now running a successful NDIS business, a registered training company and a youth centre, and they have already established a youth hub. In addition to this they have two brand new basketball courts and a state of the art training room. What excited me was the fact that in the next five years they plan to have a community “sensory” garden and a fully operational café to be staffed by people with disabilities. There will state of the art offices, training facilities, including a conference venue, men’s and women’s sheds and supported accommodation. Key Employment is open to the public, and they would love the support of the local community to help make it all happen.

Here is to ... Loving your life and appreciating every minute …

Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Zenna, Zoey, Shannon, Chris

Maria, Tim, Eric, Melissa

Jodi Wood, Jenny Evans, Liz Williams

Key Employment Event Ribbon Cutting

Business Women’s Network Event

Cass Wilson, Vicky Bamford

Danni Auch, Cecilia Elizabeth, Kerry Farmer, Nicole Yeates

Business Women’s Network Event

Annee Capararo, Carly Osborn, Lara Casson, Jenny Bonfield

Tania Norberry, Vikki Bennis, Cecilia Mwanje, Trudy Smith

Glorious Mountains, Tod Trappett, Lewis Hachfath

Glorious Mountains, Lewis Hachfath, Honey Moonshine, Coco Jumbo

Jenny Bonfield, Gavin Smithers, Margaret Bonfield

Julie Armstrong, Anthony, Jacki James, Scott James

Kelly Ticehurst, Cam Nealer

Jack Blenman, Kieran Ticehurst, Ryan Newman

Ben Tompson, Dee Redfern

Jenny Arnold, Angela Blackwell

Coffs Coast focus 35

focus_tourism

WITH FIONA BARDEN

WITH TEGAN SWAN OF WOOLGOOLGA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

events+ UPDATE

Connect with the new destination video A new television commercial for our region - Naturally Connected - was met with great enthusiasm and excitement when it was launched by Council’s Industry and Destination Development team at a recent event for local tourism operators.

T

he video uses an intimate of paradise, to refresh their souls and connect storytelling concept to show with life’s simple treasures - nature, family, a sophisticated view of the refriendships. gion, with a focus on stunning The commercial was shot at several locations natural landscapes together throughout the Coffs Coast, including Dorrigo with stylish attractions. This National Park Crystal Falls, Bellingen, Urunga new campaign builds on the previous ‘Create Board Walk, Sawtell Beach, Muttonbird Island, Your Paradise’ campaign messages promoting Bucca, Woolgoolga Headland and Red Rock. the Coffs Coast as a nature-based destination.

Featuring these spectacular locations, dining The video showcases the destination’s conand retail outlets found throughout the region, nection with carefree childhood memories – a the video also stars a range of local residents nostalgic theme to evoke and businesses. a sense of wonder and Building on the local discovery of todays Coffs theme, the project was Coast, its natural beauty produced by Simon Porand its relaxed, chic lifetus from Sawtell compaThe video used creative style. The viewer is left ny, Headline Productions; storytelling, with a focus with the message that the and the soundtrack was on stunning natural Coffs Coast has evolved written especially for the landscapes together into a modern regional commercial by Dorrigo with stylish attractions, city that offers many born musician, Phebe to highlight the growth of the connections for people Starr. region as a modern hub. wanting to visit, live and Aimed primarily at do business. young couples and The importance of confamilies living in regional nections to the Coffs NSW and South East Coast are many: Queensland, as well as • Landscape connections between the moun- Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold tains and the sea - a unique location where the Coast, the campaign will be broadcast from Great Dividing Range meets the coast; May 2019 and will feature in several publica• People’s emotional connections through tions and across social media. childhood memories - a place to explore and The video can be used by local businesses, discover with the special people you love; particularly our core tourism ones, to engage • Connection for work and play - through with visitors and showcase our beautiful part NBN for digital connection, and numerous air of the world. Engagement with customers travel connections to Sydney, Melbourne and increases by 88% when video is used on a Brisbane; website. You are encouraged to contact the • The connections of population, environIndustry & Destination Development team for ment and history between the Coffs Harbour more information on how to use our destiand Bellingen areas; and nation video and images with your business • Connecting Coffs Coast people through marketing. artistic and indigenous cultural experiences.

Watch the video now on The audience is encouraged to feel as www.coffscoast.com though they can escape to this special piece #coffscoast #naturallyconnected

36 Coffs Coast focus

Get Healthy Woopi Style!

May in Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches is set to be the inaugural Healthy Towns Month! Thanks to funding from PHN and with the support of the Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce and Mid Coast communities, all throughout May there will be free classes, courses and activities happening every day.

B

ringing the community together health happening throughout the month. and all becoming happier and It’s also not just about physical health, with healthier in body, mind and spirit a big emphasis on mental health and social is the aim of the initiative, which connection as part of what’s on offer. Courses came from community ideas and classes on topics of interest around menput forward as part of the Healthy Towns tal health, as well as meditation and mindcommunity conversations and have been fulness are all part of Healthy Towns Month. developed further by the Local Action Group Whether people are interested as a support assigned to the task. person or to better their own mindset and Kicking off with the Healthy Towns Expo at how they’re feeling, everyone is welcome to the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve on Wednescome along and take in what they need. day 1st May, the community can come down Along with mental health and physical acand enjoy cooking tivities, the third element demonstrations, yoga, of Healthy Towns month check out lots of exis around nutrition. At hibits and stalls put on both the Healthy Towns by local organisations Expo and the communiThroughout May, and businesses showty celebration planned anyone who would like casing all the different as a culmination of the to get involved can join health related services initiative, there will be in the free activities and opportunities that cooking demos, along happening every day. exist in the area. with a healthy cook off.

Throughout May, Throughout the month anyone who would nutritionists and health like to get involved experts will be providing can join in the free opportunities to learn activities happening every day. Many local some new healthy cooking skills. businesses, service organisations and sporting If Healthy Towns Month is sounding pretty groups have generously donated their time good to you and something you’d like to be and services to support the initiative and part of, head to www.woolgoolga.org.au to allow the local community to come and try view the calendar of events and register to what they have on offer, at no cost to them. take part. If you’re a business or organisation There are exercise classes for all ages and that would like to be involved in the expo or stages in lots of different styles and locations. throughout the month, get in touch with Lisa If there’s something you’ve been thinking via social@woolgoolga.org.au about trying out but have been a bit unsure, And, if you don’t already, make sure you this is the perfect opportunity to give it a go like and follow facebook.com/WoolgoolgaNand see what you think. As well as exercise SW as we’ll be sharing everything that’s going classes, there are more opportunities to learn on via our Facebook page as well. about and improve your physical health, with Happy Healthy Towns Month! May it be free health checks, as well as talks on physical the first of many!

junior

T

grants P R O G R A M

McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Program.

ahlia is a well-known identity on Grafton’s these selected gifted regional athletes and will provide her netball courts. She has participated in many with a solid platform to enable her to work towards her next teams at a variety of levels since she was eight goal of trialling for the NSW team later this year. Tahlia is the years old, progressing up the “ability ladder” as only Grafton netballer to be selected in North Coast Academy her netball skills have improved. of Sports 2019 Squad. Tahlia has also this week been named Tahlia has represented Grafton at State in the Grafton Under 17s representative Representative level for the last five team, which will now involve many years. She was in the Under 17s State weekend carnivals in the lead up to State League Team last year and has been a Championships in Sydney in June. Tahlia part of every school representative team is a high achiever, always striving to do HAVING NOW REACHED since she was eight years old, quite her best at everything in life, and she has THE AGE OF 15, TAHLIA often playing in teams to match her such a passion for netball. Tahlia will use HAS PROVEN HER ability, which well exceeded her age. the Maccas Junior Grant to go towards all PROWESS AND HAS BEEN Having now reached the age of 15, of the costs associated with playing the SPOTTED BY SCOUTS. Tahlia has proven her prowess and has sport, in an effort to help her achieve her been spotted by scouts. She attended ultimate netball dreams.

North Coast Academy of Sports trials Students from Toormina High School last year, along with over 100 talented compete in the annual Kokoda Challenge netballers from Tweed Heads to Taree and, after proving event, as it helps their students to improve their social and her on court skills, was extremely fortunate to be offered a emotional skills, improves their ability to relate with others, position on the 2019 squad. The intensive training, fitness, develop resilience and a sense of self-worth, resolve conflict, athlete education seminars and match schedule commenced engage in teamwork and feel positive about themselves and in December and will run through to October, seeing her the world around them. This grant will help to make sure playing in Sydney, Maitland and Orange. The NCAS Program all students are able to access this opportunity and will go focuses on high profile coaching by sporting professionals to towards travel and accommodation.

Coffs Coast focus 37

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

May 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Time to fulfil a long term dream. Write a list of everything needed, and take action by gathering some things listed. Keeping clear sight of your passion will ensure ongoing success; however, should you lose sight of your passion, it may be difficult to succeed.

Rose Quartz initiates self reward.

Justice can be anticipated for unresolved situations. Choose when to be heard but more importantly, when to be silent. Face your fears and become their answer. You are very capable of exceptional personal power.

Turquoise is great for boosting our personal power.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You're a wise soul, so pay attention to how often you speak wise words. These words may also be for your ears. Our Guides bring us our lessons and answers any way they can, even if it's speaking through us.

Turquoise is great for communication.

Listen to your wise words that catch your attention; it will be your best advice.

It is a good time to explore new possibilities or opportunities. Remain connected to your love of what you’re doing, to ensure success.

Clear Quartz is a natural amplifier; carry some.

Your long-term plans and goals are coming to fruition. Be aware of personal obstacles, and don’t allow them to sabotage your journey. Become the answers to your fears, as they may be holding you back.

Citrine will empower your positive thoughts.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Contentment will be your major focus, to avoid the effects of other people’s conflict.

Play with your creative self and enjoy the tranquility. Some mind focus, such as meditation or study will also show big changes.

Turquoise helps our personal power and self-esteem.

Life may feel as if a mirror is being held in front of you at present.

This is because you are being given opportunities to release old hurt damages. Use your compassion to forgive and to move ahead.

Amethyst connects us to our wise higher energies.

It is vitally important that you know you deserve great things. Your personal judgement has been too critical of late and has affected your self-esteem. You have a beautiful wisdom, so have some good hearted chats with yourself and empower yourself. Turquoise is great for self worth and esteem boosting.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Big endings and new bright beginnings are to be expected. Destiny is aligning you with with new paths, to discover gifts and talents not yet recognised. Enjoy new experiences fearlessly in the workplace.

Selenite shatters negative energy and charges the aura with bright, positive energy.

38 Coffs Coast focus

You are a natural born leader, so speak your truth and stand your ground when you are right. Your ability to recognise new opportunities will be used more in the workplace, and new friends and acquaintances can be anticipated.

Ruby shatters fears and connects us to passion for living.

Time to let go of undigested emotions to align you with living a peaceful, contented reality. Intolerance to outside negative forces is likely to intensify, so avoid negative people and situations for a few weeks.

Rose Quartz helps connect us to our selflove.

You are a wise person; this is why others offload to you. Hearing your wise words and acknowledging them will also help you grow. When others are drawing on your strength to overcome challenges, imagine yourself inside a bubble. This will be a win/ win. Rose Quartz initiates self-reward.

Women’s F O C U S

F E A T U R E

Coffs Coast focus 39

focushealth

and

Wellbeing

W R I T T E N B Y K AT H R Y N B R E W E R , T H E L I F E C R E AT I V E . C O M

RU

OK? What’s the difference between a

COLD AND THE FLU? You are living a busy, successful life, but right now, how are things going? RUOK? Or do you have unhelpful thoughts, persistent ones that return with the tenacity of weeds? Thoughts that shut you down, tell you the future is more of the past (the bits you didn’t like) and make it hard to get out of bed in the morning?

P

ositive psychology has uncovered strategies to help us feel better. We know happiness is a byproduct of good relationships, health, rewarding work, and that giving thanks and showing appreciation are key. We also know that our brains are plastic, and we can learn and change throughout our lives. When things are going well, perhaps we are tempted to tick happiness off our to-do list. Until life has other plans …

The flip side of neuroplasticity is despite learning new and better ways, our minds have an equal if not stronger capacity to snap back to their old safe scripts. Almost like a default setting, the unhelpful, persistent thoughts that are so familiar can slide in under the radar when our resilience is low.

Before we know it, we’ve forfeited creating the life we want for the "real life" of survival mode.

It feels real and it feels true.

It is not.

In the end, the reason resilience is hard earned is because it requires we persevere in the face of whatever is taxing us in our outward lives (underemployment, divorce, or

40 Coffs Coast focus

illness) and at the same time deal with the pity party our minds are excitedly throwing: "Told you so; told you so!"

It is clear our mind is not a friend. A useful management strategy is to refuse to accept thoughts as truth, and instead take the view that a thought is just a thought. If a thought isn’t helpful, call it out. I am not suggesting you shut out or stop dealing with the circumstances of your life - not at all - more that your choose your own emotional reality.

You don’t need to be giving yourself a hard time on top of dealing with difficult circumstances. If we can get on our own side, it helps enormously.

Look around you. Everything you see is a result of your past decisions. Your future could be more of the same, or it could be different in delightful and unanticipated ways.

Fuel your day with uplifting emotions, and you will discover more possibility in your life, and call out the unhelpful thoughts when they turn up.

For strategies and support, consider a life coaching program with The Life Creative, your other best friend. www.thelifecreative.com

Both colds and influenza are caused by viruses; however, the flu can be much more severe and lead to potentially life-threatening complications.

C

olds and influenza (flu) are both viral respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.

Both of these illnesses can have similar symptoms, and at first it can be difficult to tell the difference.

While neither virus is pleasant to catch, the flu can be much more severe than a cold and lead to potentially life-threatening complications, so it’s important to know what to do when you are sick and how to limit the virus from spreading to others.

In general, the symptoms of influenza are more severe and last longer than those of a cold. The symptoms of flu can include fever (or feeling feverish/having chills), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches and pains, headaches and fatigue (tiredness). Although some adults will also experience vomiting and diarrhoea, these symptoms are more common in children.

Treatment for colds and flu Antibiotics don’t work against a cold or flu, because they target bacteria, rather than viruses. Instead, you can treat yourself at home by: Getting plenty of rest and sleep (this means staying home from work or school); Drinking plenty of fluids (particularly water); If you have a sore throat, eating soft foods that are easy to swallow.

If you don’t experience any complications,

or have high risk factors for complications, treatment of the flu requires no prescription medication. Over-the-counter medication is available to help relieve headaches, muscle aches and fever, and while these won’t cure your illness, they may make you feel more comfortable.

Stop the spread If you have the flu, it’s really important that you take steps to minimise your risk of spreading the virus to others, especially those who are high risk of serious complications from influenza. Follow the steps below to reduce the risk of spreading the flu or cold viruses: Get vaccinated; Cough or sneeze into a tissue, and then throw it away immediately after use, or cover a cough or sneeze with your elbow; Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after you sneeze, blow your nose or cough; Wash your hands before handling food or drinks; Stay at home as soon as you notice symptoms of the flu.

Unless otherwise advised by a doctor, home is the best place to be while you have the flu or a cold. By staying at home, you limit contact with other people and reduce transmission of the virus.

You can greatly reduce your risk of contracting the flu by getting a flu vaccination each year.

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Living Doll Trans-seasonal hair is hard; summer sun calls for beachy blonde balayage, while autumn calls for more chestnut-coloured hues.

To make your life easier, we've laid out the latest colour options, to make trans-seasonal style a breeze.

Whether you're leaning towards going lighter with blonde, transforming into a rich brunette, or dipping your toe in the red hair waters, or even learning how to get grey hair, Living Doll’s Premier Stylists have got you sorted.

Texture Paint As more and more women are embracing their natural textures, free-hand highlights are making a big comeback. Rather than using the traditional foil technique, lightening agents are painted through curls to further enhance the coiled shapes and shadows, adding instant dimension.

Coffee Balayage There's a new balayage in town, and we're loving the concept! Coffee balayage mimics the usual technique, but using coffee colours from the dark espresso to the soft latte shades, combining to make glossy tonal hair dream.

Chilli Chocolate In true autumn fashion, gingers and reds are the colours of the season, but chilli chocolate hair is for those of us that are a bit nervous about going the full way. The colour is made up of a deep chocolate brown with an auburn hue, to get the illusion of sun-kissed hair, without it looking unnatural.

Rose Brown Finally! A pastel trend that brunettes can get involved with! The rose gold trend isn't done just yet, as rose brown is gaining traction on Instagram. Instead of having to dye your hair bright blonde to achieve the look, this works with darker hair colours. Living Doll Premiers stylists can create this by using a mixture of brown and red dyes. We're SO into this; come in and have a try. XO Dolls

Coffs Coast focus 41

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Women’s F O C U S

F E A T U R E

Physiotherapy for Women’s Health + Wellness.

Meet Heidi Beames. She's a physiotherapist at Hoys Allied Health and Wellness. After completing her Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Heidi trained with Women’s Health Training Associates to gain further skills in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of particular conditions pertaining to women’s health and pelvic floor issues. Heidi became interested in women’s health physiotherapy while working as a hospital physio and visiting the maternity unit to see new mothers, where she gave them practical advice and some exercises to help them recover following childbirth. She was inspired to learn more to help these women navigate the changes in their bodies that pregnancy and birth can bring. Through that came a delving into many of the things that come under the women’s health umbrella, including pelvic floor issues, pregnancy management and post-surgical rehabilitation following operations like prolapse repair and hysterectomies.

Women's Health Services. As a physiotherapist with a special interest in women’s health, Heidi can help patients with such issues as pregnancy-

related pelvic girdle, back or hip pain; exercise during pregnancy; pre and post gynecological surgery rehabilitation; returning to exercise following childbirth or gynecological surgery; concern of pelvic floor muscle avulsion following childbirth; rectus diastasis (when your abdominal muscles stretch and have difficulty returning to their normal resting state); pelvic floor muscle weakness or pelvic floor muscle over-recruitment; incontinence (bladder or bowel); overactive bladder and nocturia (consistently needing to wake for toileting overnight); prolapse diagnosis and management ; and mastitis management.

Pregnancy Core Exercise Classes. This year, Heidi has started a pregnancy-safe core exercise class once a week in Sawtell. Exercise during pregnancy is very important, but finding a safe space to exercise can be difficult. Training under the guidance of a physiotherapist with a special interest in women’s health can be a great option for expecting mothers. We recommend a oneon-one appointment with Heidi before beginning classes.

Massages by Sophie Sophie Morize is a fully qualified massage therapist, who has recently opened a new massage studio in Coffs Harbour. Originally from France, Sophie was drawn to massage through her passion for assisting people to feel at home in their bodies. As a dedicated therapist and avid learner, she is continually building upon her practice with the wisdom found in healing philosophies across the world. Sophie’s genuine quality of care and commitment to creating a restorative, revitalising experience shine through in each of her sessions. One of Sophie’s specialties is massaging with hot stones. Hot stones have been used in massage by many cultures for centuries. Inspired by the medicine of folk healers throughout the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, this therapy delivers a rich multitude of benefits.

The heat contained in the stones significantly relieves tension in the muscles, with one stroke of a hot stone being equivalent to ten strokes of the hand in other forms of massage.

Another popular massage that Sophie offers is the Indian Head Massage, which embraces the ancient science and art of Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India. By working with the marmas, or pressure points, this therapy balances the mind, body and spirit, and stimulates the body’s innate healing abilities. Focusing on the head, neck, upper body, face and hands, this rejuvenative massage calms the mind and soothes the nervous system.

Sophie offers new clients a 50% discount on their first massage, and regular clients can build up to a 20% lifetime discount.

Massages by Sophie

50% Off!

First Massage

42 Coffs Coast focus

Mob:

0455218547

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Women’s F O C U S

Brad

F E A T U R E

W E L C O M E

T O

Pearce

Dental

H

Welcome to Brad Pearce Dental

i Dr Nancy. Welcome to Coffs community and literally put a smile back on people’s Harbour. How did you find faces. The people of the Coffs Coast are really yourself in our beautiful city? friendly, and I have met some amazing families. To see I wanted a change and some patients come to me either nervous, self-conscious or growth in my dentistry. I had both and leave feeling at ease and smiling makes me been on the so happy.

Sunshine Coast for two years. I What are you looking saw the job advertised at Brad forward to the most in Pearce Dental and thought it your new role? would be an ideal location and Brad Pearce Dental has a I wanted to work with a practice to be part of. wonderful, experienced big team of experienced Why Brad Pearce Dental? big team of accomplished dentists, to help with my I wanted to work with a big dentists, and to work team of experienced dentists in that environment is growth. I also liked that to help with my growth. I also exciting. Definitely the under their guidance, I liked that under their guidance, mentoring as well; it’s a could grow as a dentist. The I could grow as a dentist. The huge opportunity that I opportunity to be mentored opportunity to be mentored was have relished. I have really was one I couldn’t pass up, one I couldn’t pass up, and I settled in here and love the and I have loved it. have loved it. lifestyle and the patients.

Why did you want to become Well, thank you so much a dentist? for your time Dr. Nancy, To help people with their oral and the team is really health, so they can live a healthier life. It’s also a very excited to have you on board. fulfilling career, and like the old saying, “The career I’m looking forward to it too. I am working at chose me!”

Grafton, Coffs and Woolgoolga practices, so give What’s the best part about being a dentist? them a call today and make an appointment to see It’s rewarding to be able to give back to the me.

Introducing Dr Cecilia

to Brad Pearce Dental

D

r Cecilia Mwanje was born and raised in Liverpool, UK. She studied dentistry at the University of Birmingham, UK, graduating in 2000. After working for two years within the health system, Cecilia felt the need to travel, so she headed to the place she always wanted to visit, Australia, and quickly fell in love with the country. She spent a year travelling and working in regional towns around Australia, which was invaluable to her as a dentist. She loved this experience, and it gave her a fondness for the Australian people.

Upon returning to the UK in 2003, Cecilia spent the subsequent 13 years working in both the health system and private practice.

She wanted to return to Australia and did so in 2016, moving to the beautiful city of Coffs Harbour, where she has made her home. The people of the coast have made it an easy transition and have made her feel so welcome.

Cecilia is passionate about all aspects of general dentistry and aims to make the patients' experience as pleasant as possible. She understands that it’s sometimes daunting for patients and makes it her priority to put their mind at ease with her gentle touch.

Cecilia works in Coffs, Grafton and Bellingen and would love to meet you and your family, so why not call one of our practices and make an appointment today for that overdue check-up?

Coffs Coast focus 43

focusfitness

W I T H D U N C A N M A R C H A N T , C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

This month’s MyFitnessStory comes to us courtesy of Coffs Coast Health Club Personal Trainer, Amanda Dean. She is a training dynamo, but also an ex-cop, new mum and has recently placed second in the whole of Australia for the CrossFit Open.

W

hat were you up to before you moved to the Coffs Coast?

I lived in Sydney for 10 years. I completed a degree in teaching, then joined the NSW Police Force. I was in the force for six years and left as a Detective Senior Constable. Post serving in the NSW Police Force, I became a full-time CrossFit coach for two years. This is where my love for health and fitness really started. I knew I could make a successful career out of doing what makes me happy and completed my Certificate III and IV in Fitness, to become a personal trainer.

What motivated you to become a personal trainer?

As I grew older, I realised I wanted to help and motivate people to become the best version of themselves. I thought that by joining the NSW Police Force I could fulfill that passion.

However, although I was helping people, I felt there was something missing ... I really wanted to make an impact on people’s lives and give them something they could continue with once they no longer needed my services. My clients continue to impress and motive me to be better every day. They love a challenge, and it’s inspiring to watch them grow and push themselves every session. When I see my clients giving 100%, it makes me want to give them 110% back.

One of my other passions is helping pre and post-natal women with their fitness. Not only is it beneficial for your baby, but yourself as well.

After having my little one, I realised there were not a lot of options on the Coffs Coast where women can seek this kind of service. I wanted to change that and get women working out in an environment where they feel safe and welcome and can meet other women who are going through similar experiences.

How would you describe your style as a personal trainer?

I like to bring intensity to my sessions and 44 Coffs Coast focus

get my clients trying new movements and new training techniques. I’m a firm believer in constantly varying your training. This not only helps with your motivation levels, it also assists in stopping the plateau effect. I am very privileged to take a number of boxing and CC55 (circuit) classes; I also specialise in small group and one on one PT sessions at Coffs Coast Health Club.

What personal health and fitness goals have you achieved yourself?

One recent goal I have achieved is coming back from pregnancy 10 months ago and finishing second in Australia for the scaled division of the CrossFit Open. The CrossFit Open is a five week competition, with a new workout getting released each week. It was a great test of fitness, and it’s pleasing to see the effort that has gone into my training is paying off. I feel fitter than ever and am enjoying the challenge of reaching new goals I have set for myself.

Where do people tend to go wrong when they are trying to achieve their goals?

I think setting a great goal with an unreal timeframe to achieve it in. Give yourself time to achieve the numbers you’re after. If you’ve had a bad day or bad week, don’t give up - get back on track and keep striving to hit your numbers.

Constantly ask yourself, “What have I done today to get me closer to my goals?”

What is your top tip to help our readers achieve their goals?

Tell anyone who will listen what your goal is.

The more people you tell, the more accountable you are. Personal trainers are a great option, but so are friends, family members, and work colleagues.

Thanks for sharing, Amanda, and if you’re looking to kickstart your own inspirational health and fitness story … simply call 1300 040 479, or drop in to see the friendly Coffs Coast Health Club team at either Toormina or Moonee Beach to get started today.

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Women’s F O C U S

ActiveWomen are healthy, happy women.

THE SECRET IS OUT!

Do you have great intentions to be more active, but struggle to make it happen? Are you like many of us who keep finding excuses about why you’re not exercising enough? We caught up with Jess Barber, Exercise Physiologist at Mid North Coast Physiotherapy, to find out how exercise is proven to have a significant impact on a woman’s health throughout the different stages of life.

W

ith a greater focus on women’s health, what does it mean, and how can we improve it?

“Women’s Health” is an umbrella term used to describe any number of health conditions which may affect women through the life stages. From puberty to pregnancy, motherhood to menopause, a women’s body undergoes incredible transformations, some of which can take a toll.

Exercise has proven benefits to help moderate and manage changes through the life stages, as well prevent or manage chronic health conditions.

Australian women are undertaking any number of roles each day. Wife, mother, daughter, chef, taxi driver, co-worker, CEO; there is no denying a woman’s day is busy, and sometimes it can be a struggle to make our health a priority. With this in mind, it is not surprising that one in two Australian women are not sufficiently active, and are experiencing a greater proportion of the total burden of disease.

Exercise During Pregnancy and Postpartum A woman’s body undergoes an amazing transformation during pregnancy, and there is also no shortage of information about the dos and don’ts during this time, particularly around exercising safely. Research shows exercise, including aerobic and strength exercises, during pregnancy can produce a 40% reduction in the risk of major complications, including pre-eclampsia, gestational hypertension or gestational diabetes.

While exercising post-partum will be different for all mums, dependent on delivery or any complications which may have arisen, a gradual return to exercise will help relieve stress and prevent postnatal depression, as well as improve abdominal and pelvic floor strength, to reduce the risk of prolapse or incontinence.

In short, an exercise program tailored to you is essential, due to the benefit for both you and your

bub and can assist during labour, childbirth and post-partum recovery. It is strongly recommended that you seek advice from your obstetrician and a qualified health professional, such as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, who will be able to tailor an exercise program to suit your individual needs.

Exercise During Menopause and Beyond Another period of significant change to a woman’s body occurs during menopause. The female body is challenged with changing body composition, energy levels, hormone balance and more. It is also a period during which a woman’s risk of chronic health conditions, including breast cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart disease, begin to rise.

One of the most significant changes to occur during menopause is the reduction of oestrogen, an important hormone for maintaining bone density.

Strength-based exercise is particularly important, to continue to load muscles, bones and joints, which will maintain strength and reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis and potential fractures.

As we continue to age, we continue to experience a gradual decline in muscle mass and subsequent strength, our reaction time may slow, and our balance and proprioception may deteriorate.

Keeping active and performing strength and balance exercises are a crucial component of reducing our risk of falls, slips or near-misses.

Things to Remember Exercise IS for everyone!

But, it’s not always a “one size fits all”. Seeking the advice of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist will empower you to feel comfortable and in control of your exercise, making YOUR health a priority and allowing you to live a happier and healthier life with the ones you love!

To get a FREE personalised exercise assessment from one of the expert Exercise Physiologists at Mid North Coast Physiotherapy, call 1300 273 747 and mention this article. There are only eight free assessments available, so call NOW.

F E A T U R E

Southern Cross Sports and Fitness Centre Exercise and the Pelvic Floor The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that assist to support the bladder, uterus and bowel and reach from the pubic bone at the front to the tailbone at the back, forming the base of the pelvis. When the muscles are strong, it helps to reduce the likelihood of incontinences and prolapse. Common causes of pelvic floor weakness are childbirth, being overweight, constipation, constant heavy lifting, excessive coughing, growing older and menopause. It is recommended that all women exercise their pelvic floor muscles every day.

How much and what kind of exercise?

There are some great websites that assist in guiding pelvic floor strength. One of these is The Royal Women’s Hospital (thewomens.org.

au) which steps people through activating longer sustained contractions, and short powerful contractions, whilst maintaining correct posture and breathing techniques. As always, if you have any concerns it is best to consult your doctor first.

Southern Cross Sports and Fitness Centre: We cater for all ages and fitness levels and design personalised programs for all of our members. Many of our staff have tertiary qualifications, and one is a qualified Pilates instructor, so we can help with all your health and wellness requirements. Programs are FREE, there is NO start-up fee, and memberships start from $6/ week.

We are open Monday - Thursday, 6am - 8pm and Friday 6am - 7pm. Come in and see us today!

Coffs Coast focus 45

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Jen

Darby M I D W I F E

Women’s F O C U S

W

hat brought you to the Coffs Coast?

I was just cruising along in a job that I loved, and living in a great, but busy, part of Sydney.

I had been in Sydney pretty much my whole life and felt that I needed a change to shake things up a bit. My sister and her family had moved to Crossmaglen a few years earlier, so this was a safe place to land and see how it went for a couple of years. It was definitely a great decision, as I have a family now and would not consider moving back to Sydney!

When did you become interested in becoming a midwife?

I feel like I became a midwife by accident, although it turned out to be a very fortunate accident. I was an Intensive Care nurse, and had just changed jobs from adult Intensive Care to Neonatal Intensive Care. I quickly realised that I wanted to understand what the mothers had been through before they had ended up with their sick or premature babies in Neonatal Intensive Care. So, I went straight into training as a midwife, and I haven’t looked back. I immediately felt like I found what I was meant to be doing. It is an amazing and honoured position being a midwife, to walk beside women as they nurture and birth their babies.

On 5th May, we celebrate the International Day of the Midwife, where we recognise the role that midwives play in the lives of women and their families. Keep an eye out for your favourite midwife on this day!

How does a midwife’s role differ from that of another health practitioner?

The role of a midwife is both specialised and holistic.

We work closely with women during the normal life event that is pregnancy and birth. Midwives are skilled in working with all pregnant women. For women with uncompli46 Coffs Coast focus

F E A T U R E

Jen Darby is a midwife here on the Coffs Coast, one we are lucky to have, with many years of experience behind her. We asked Jen about life as a midwife, what her role means to her, and what makes it so special ...

jen darby

cated pregnancies, we may be the When a woman enters motherWhen a woman enters only care provider that a woman hood with self-belief, confidence motherhood with self-belief, sees during her pregnancy, during and feeling well-supported, the confidence and feeling her birth, and right through until effects continue long after the birth well-supported, the the baby is six weeks old. We work and can positively impact on her effects continue long after with women and their partners or whole family. the birth and can positively support people to provide education What do you consider to be the impact on her whole family. and support for pregnancy, labour most challenging aspects of your and birth, breastfeeding and early role? parenting. The needs that women From a light-hearted perspective, have coming into pregnancy and one of the most challenging times birth are often different, so we must for midwives can be when lots of be ready for anything. babies decide to come at once! Not always predictable, Midwives also have skills in identifying when complibut I personally never trust a sudden low pressure weathcations of pregnancy are occurring that require referral er system (which some people say brings on labour). to an obstetrician. If this occurs, we still have a vital role Of course, one of the biggest challenges is supporting in working with these women. Midwives and doctors parents through grief and loss. It can be challenging to do have quite different roles, but when we work closely know whether you are meeting the parents’ emotional together, that creates the best possible outcomes and needs at that time, as indeed they may not know what experiences for all women. their needs are themselves. As a midwife, I see it as a What do you think is the most important aspect of privileged position to be able to support parents during what you do? this time.

Pregnancy and birth only last for a relatively short time, Having a baby can be one of the most significant but the experiences that a woman has during these times moments in a person’s life. How do you think a perare monumental and can have a life-long impact. As a son’s experience can be shaped by who is looking midwife, I have the perfect opportunity to improve womafter them at this time? en’s experiences through pregnancy and birth. I think, as One of the most important things that I have learned in a starting point, it is vital that a woman knows that I am 20 years of being a midwife is that women need to feel present with her at that moment and will work with her, safe when they give birth, both emotionally and physicalwhatever her needs are. ly, and no one but the woman herself can define this. If A woman should feel that she is the centre of the care a woman has some kind of connection with the person she receives at all times, and I believe it is a big part of my providing her care, and she feels supported in the way she role as a midwife to always maintain this feeling. I have needs to be, the experience will shape itself to be the best met women who have emerged with amazing strength it can be for the woman. from positive experiences of care during pregnancy and Thanks Jen. birth.

W O M E N ' S

H E A L T H

Dr Aaron Budden With one in 10 women affected by endometriosis, FOCUS caught up with Dr Aaron Budden, to find out more about the condition.

F

irst of all, what is endometriosis?

Endometriosis generally affects women during their reproductive years. It occurs when the cells that normally line the uterus are found in other places, such as other parts of the pelvis. These cells respond to monthly hormone changes and can cause a variety of pain symptoms, the most common being painful periods. Other common symptoms include pain during sex, when going to the toilet, or between periods. Endometriosis is a little odd though, with some women displaying widespread disease and no symptoms (we see it by chance at an operation for other reasons) whilst other women may have small amounts and suffer severe pain.

How do you diagnose endometriosis?

It starts with raising awareness of the disease and having better conversations about pelvic pain. There is an average of seven years between the time a woman first experiences symptoms and diagnosis. If this is to improve, then we must start to talk about it at home; parents need to start talking about this with our daughters. Too many times I have heard stories of young women with horrendously painful periods or who have experienced pain during sex, who were told it was normal and they should battle on. Often a young woman’s pain is dismissed so quickly, she will hide it for years. Please start talking about it at home. Although painful periods are common, severe pain which leads to the need to take strong pain killers or days off school flags a possible problem.

If you are worried about the pain you’re experiencing, then start by talking to your doctor, who will take a thorough pain history, perform an initial examination, and organise an

ultrasound and treatment plan. If you feel your concerns are dismissed, then don’t hesitate to get another opinion from someone who will look for answers with you.

What treatment options are available for women?

Firstly, we should only be treating women who are suffering symptoms of disease, otherwise we may cause more harm than good. For women who do have symptoms, the first line of treatment should always be non-surgical, which may include changes in diet and exercise, physiotherapy, pain relief, and other medications like the oral contraceptive pill. When these treatments fail, laparoscopic (key-hole) surgery is recommended to look for and remove disease. This should be done by a gynaecologist experienced in endometriosis.

What happens if pain continues despite treatment?

Whilst endometriosis is incredibly common, it is not the only cause of pelvic pain. If initial treatment fails, the diagnosis should be revisited and considered alongside bowel, bladder and muscle problems that may occur. Ongoing pain may be due to new occurrence of endometriosis, overactive pain nerves, overactive pelvic floor muscles, or incomplete removal at surgery. If pain returns within a year of surgery, I would be reluctant to say another surgery is the answer, and often we need to look at symptom management. Ongoing pelvic pain can be difficult, but your gynaecologist will continue to work with you to provide answers and relief.

Where can I get more information?

Endometriosis Australia is a great initial resource (www.endometriosisaustralia.org) or make an appointment to see your GP or gynaecologist.

Coffs Coast focus 47

48 Coffs Coast focus

Coffs Coast focus 49

focus_Contributor

W I T H D A I S Y M O R O N E Y F R O M D A I S Y L L E W E L LY N H A I R A N D M A K E U P

focus_Contributor

WITH LAUREN VESTEY

faceit.

This month I thought I’d share a bit about eye makeup, a follow up after sharing some tips and tricks on how to create the perfect base a couple of issues ago; these are my tips for creating a beautiful look for your eyes.

O

stop before that point, or even upturn the line slightly. You also don’t have to use dark shadow right to the inner corners of your eyes; this works for some people, but can make your eyes look closer together or deeper set, so using the darker shadows on the outer half of your lid and a lighter shade towards the inner corner will avoid this. You can even use something that is lighter than A comment I often hear from clients is that your skin tone (and with a bit of reflective when they attempt to shimmer can look great) do a smokey eye, they on the inner corners of feel they end up looking your eyes to highlight like they’ve been and brighten, leaving punched! A smokey eye A comment I often hear from them looking bright doesn’t have to be all clients is that when they attempt and wide open, but still black, and it can still be to do a smokey eye, they feel well defined. Another flattering to different they end up looking like they’ve trick for keeping eyes eye shapes if it’s done been punched! A smokey looking bright is to right. And if you don’t eye doesn’t have to be all use a white or cream feel like a smokey eye is black, and it can still be coloured liner on the your thing, but you still flattering to different eye inner waterline (the want to glam up your shapes if it’s done right. bottom lashline, inside look, go for some liner the lashes or closer to and/or some lashes, but your actual eye); this ditch the shadow, or will counteract any go for a bit of shimmer, redness and blend into the whites of your glitter, or even gloss, to amp things up a bit eyes, making them appear bigger. If you from your everyday look! want to go for a really soft smokey look, you If you do want to give the smokey eye a go, don’t necessarily need to use liner either; you first imagine a line from the outer corner of can use shadow to line your eyes and blend your eye to the outer end of your eyebrow. out, add some mascara - and you’re done!

Your eye makeup should generally not go

50 Coffs Coast focus

If you’ve ever envied a celebrity’s gorgeous full locks, we hope you know by now they’re probably extensions. It’s not your fault if you don’t roll out of bed with amazing beach waves. Extensions do more than add length; they also add volume.

If you have hair that’s at least 3 inches long, you can get extensions. You can have them braided, glued, or woven in, or if you only want them super-temporarily, you can clip them in as well. And, they come in all kinds of colours, so you can match your current hair colour, or add a highlighting or lowlighting effect.

W

HAT TO LOOK FOR

ne of the things I love about makeup is that you are only really limited by your creativity; there aren’t any hard and fast rules. However, there are a few guidelines you can follow as a starting point in creating an eye look that will keep them looking big and bright!

past this line; dark shadow or liner past this point will start to draw your eye down at those corners. Even when you’re not doing a winged liner, you don’t have to follow the lash line right to the corner; you can

extensions

Keep in mind that these tips and tricks can be applied when necessary to many different colours and looks! Be as creative as you like, and have fun with your makeup the next time you feel like getting glammed up!

“A hairstyle can make or break your look,” says Premier Stylist and hair extension specialist Lauren Vestey. Lauren cautions there are a lot of differences between good and bad extensions, and it's best to know what the stylists are actually putting into your hair.

The key to perfect hair extensions is to create natural-looking, flawless, undetectable blends. By combining the skin weft method with the thinner, more compact design of a slimline tape bond, Living Doll are now able to offer the most discreet form of hair extensions on the market.

creet, that nobody will know you’re wearing hair extensions. Skin Weft Hair Extensions are ultra-gentle on the hair and barely detectable at the scalp making them ideal for those with fine hair.

BENEFITS • Flatter and thinner slimline tape allowing the tape to sit flush against the scalp • Undetectable at the scalp

THE KEY TO PERFECT HAIR EXTENSIONS IS TO CREATE NATURALLOOKING, FLAWLESS, UNDETECTABLE BLENDS.

THE ADVANTAGE The new super slim tape bond sits flush against the scalp and lays perfectly flat, ensuring the hair extensions don’t stick out at the roots, resulting in a more comfortable and discreet finish, every time.

HOW ARE THEY DIFFERENT TO STANDARD TAPE HAIR EXTENSIONS? Unlike regular tape hair extensions, each strand of hair is machine sewn into the weft, to create the illusion of the hair coming from the scalp. Skin Wefts offer a flawless blend compared to regular tapes and are so dis-

• Incredibly natural and flawless result • High-Quality Premium Remy A+ Human Hair • Available in 10 natural colours and 11 new Ombre shades • Available in 20” length • Fantastic for fine to medium hair

Living Doll have partnered with Showpony Professional and are Australia’s premier hair extensions company at the forefront of hair and fashion. Used and loved by celebrities, fashion icons and celebrity hair stylists, Showpony is also the exclusive supplier to fashion weeks across Australia. Showpony has successfully positioned itself as a leading hair extension supplier, recognized nationally and internationally for its outstanding quality and range of products. Come in and talk to one of the Premier Stylists at Living Doll to see what extensions would be right for you.

XO Dolls

MOTHER’S DAY

FOCUS

FEATURE

FOCUS FEATURE

Love & Kisses

?

NO - we’re not suggesting dolls for Mother’s Day! We just thought they were very gorgeous, and wanted to put them in the photo. Handmade from Kaloo of France, they’re soft and cuddly, suitable from birth, and sell for $36.95.

Love & Kisses does have lots of other great Mother’s Day ideas you’ll find everything from: *Bracelets to board games *Baggage tags to bookmarks *Baskets to bed socks *Blue bags and black ones and *Bee attracting pheromones … now, there’s something you’ll have to go in and see for yourself … who knew you could even find such a thing for your garden? And while you’re looking at those, you’ll also find really good gardening gloves for $9.95.

For young mums and old mums, at Love & Kisses you’ll find gifts you’ll love, in every price range ... Australian made hand creams and soaps, the world’s softest slippers, boxed coffee mugs, snack sets, Keep Cups ($13.95), lots of new jewellery, umbrellas, scarves $9.95 to $15.

And if children are doing their own shopping this year, there are plenty of choices in the $5 - $10 price range.

When you need to give a gift “with love and kisses from …”, Love & Kisses is definitely the first place to go.

Flowers on First At Flowers on First Sawtell, we are getting ready for Mother's Day, Sunday 12th May. Our team is working hard in preparation for this massive week, to ensure the high quality of our Mother's Day range of bouquets and arrangements. Along with our stunning flowers, this year we have a focus on potted and flowering plants, with so many indoor and flowering plant varieties ready to grab and go ... beautiful ceramic pots, cane and wicker baskets, flowering orchids, cyclamen and of course, the old traditional chrysanthemum plants.

Our store will be open and trading on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May, but we strongly recommend getting your floral order in as early as possible, to avoid the last minute rush. If you can't make it in to hand pick your flowers, you can order securely at our website www.flowersonfirstsawtell.com and we will be delivering all weekend!

Phone us on 6658 9599 to get in early and pre-order your Mother's Day plants and flowers now, or pop in to have a browse of our new pots, plants and botanical inspired gift lines.

Happy Mother's Day to all of the beautiful mums; we hope you have a lovely day and get spoiled!

Coffs Coast focus 51

MOTHER’S DAY

FOCUS

FEATURE

Jarratt Jacqui

In honour of Mother’s Day this month, we decided we needed to chat with Jacqui Jarratt, an incredible local woman who has experienced motherhood in many different forms. Jacqui has three biological children, two of whom are adults with children of their own now, and one who is just six years old, and she also opens her home to foster children in need of care, support and love. So as someone who has been mother to young children, mother to adult kids, grandmother, foster mother, mentor/mother figure … we felt she was the perfect person to ask about what motherhood means to her and why it’s such a special and important role.

H

i Jacqui. Can you tell us about your connection with the Coffs Coast?

Firstly, thank you for asking me to speak about being a mother for your Mother’s Day May FOCUS Edition.

After a holiday to Coffs Harbour visiting my brother-in-law, Glen, my husband and I decided to move to Coffs about 12 years ago from Canberra. We are both in the fitness industry and have worked in many areas of fitness, health and wellness in Coffs Harbour over these years as employees and also business owners, so we feel very entrenched in life in this beautiful location.

You are a foster carer and have taken in a number of children; what made you decide to apply to become a carer?

I first wanted to do fostering in my 20s, but at the time it wasn’t a reasonable option. About 10 years ago, Glen and I spoke about fostering and felt it was an opportunity for us to give back to the community by offering our home, short term or long term, to children in need of somewhere to find some stability and sanctuary. During our initial training I fell pregnant with my third child, so we all agreed to hang off in completing the process, until our child was at least two years old.

What was the process like?

The people involved in all the training we received (and still receive) were/are incredibly supportive and very dedicated in their pursuit of getting the right people on board to be carers. The process is long and very thorough, and we have learned a lot about ourselves as individuals, as a couple, as parents, and developed understanding and working with the challenges in family dynamics when children come in and out of our home. I believe it is an ongoing evolution, as everyone has different needs, and no two children are ever the same or have the same story.

What are some of the challenges of caring for kids in out of home care?

Being aware of their pain, their confusion, their

52 Coffs Coast focus

frustration, their stories, and my littlest has just turned six, so yes, I TRULY FEEL rolling with it all. Not judging there is a bit of an age difference. their behaviour, but instead being My husband, Glen (who is 14 years FULFILLED WHEN there for them and knowing that if younger than me) and I always hoped I SHARE TIME they’re having a bad day/week and that I would fall pregnant naturally WITH ANY OF ‘MY their behaviour could be deemed and after a couple of miscarriages, CHILDREN’ ; I feel having as inappropriate, not to take it we were over the moon to find out I children in your life is a personally, as it is their way, and their was pregnant when I was 50. Flynn privilege, and one that isn’t need, of expressing their situation. (my late lamb) was born when I always possible for everyone.

What do you find most rewarding was 51. I also have three incredible about fostering? grandchildren, who take delight in The cuddles or acknowledgement calling my youngest their uncle. that you have made a difference in You have experienced motherhood their hour, their day, or their week. Just those little subtle from a number of different perspectives; what does confirmations that for that time, that child felt happy, being a mother mean to you? valued, safe.

I genuinely, really love children. I’m also very lucky to be You also have your own biological children. How do involved with children in my working life with my little yoga you manage different combinations of kids and ages, kids or my pole fitness girls and even in the past, my aerobics especially when for some it’s their permanent home, kids, so sometimes I feel like a bit of a mother to them all. and for some it may be a temporary placement?

However, the day I gave birth to my first born, was the day My biological kids are great humans. My big kids (as I call that I truly understood what love was. That unconditional my first two) are very compassionate people who never seek love and care that I feel towards my children (my own, and to judge the situation of others, but instead see a situation the others that come into my world) really resonates with for what it is/was. My littlest munchkin seems to have a me. I truly feel fulfilled when I share time with any of “my great ability to understand that he is here, and we made children” - I feel having children in your life is a privilege, him and that the other kids need to stay with us for a time, and one that isn’t always possible for everyone. and then they may move on. He too is very kind and often After all your experiences as a mother, what advice surprises us with his caring nature towards others. would you consider most valuable to pass on to other Don’t get me wrong though; there have been some mums this Mother’s Day? challenging times juggling everyone’s needs and the family I found this a hard question, because mothering is dynamics, but if you think fostering and juggling your own different for everyone. I do feel though, no matter in what children is ever going to be easy and smooth sailing, then capacity you have children come into your life and therefore, you may want to rethink your decision to do so. the opportunity to be a “mother”, that we need to take the There’s also a considerable age gap between your own time to be truly present for those children. Children learn children, and quite a remarkable story around your from their environment, and we are their environment, so as youngest child; can you tell us about that? we can teach them, so too they can teach us … to be better I did chuckle when I read this question. My first born people. just turned 32, my second child will be 30 this year, and Thanks Jacqui.

MEET the

experts F O C U S

F E AT U R E

Coffs Coast focus 53

MEET THE

E X P E R T S

Michael Spence M I C K E Y

M O U SE

P LU M B I N G

When and why did you start your business?

I started my business back in 2016. I have always been a plumber, since finishing my apprenticeship after high school, but had a big interest in designing luxury bathrooms, from the layout right through to the colour and styling. After years of plumbing experience and further education, I decided it was a good time to branch off on my own, putting that experience and my love for designing and coordinating bathroom renovations into good use.

Best thing about your job?

The best thing to me would be the customer feedback I receive after completing their bathroom or ensuite. I believe there is no better feeling in this industry than turning ideas into reality and seeing the happy faces of clients after presenting them with their new bathrooms.

What makes your business stand out?

Firstly, the name of my business certainly stands out. Mickey Mouse Plumbing isn’t your usual plumbing business name. Secondly, the time and communication I put in with my clients is one of my top priorities. Ensuring the client is always updated and aware of the process throughout each step of the way is an integral part of ensuring a stress free and seamless experience for my clients.

Thirdly, I pride myself on my attention to detail.

54 Coffs Coast focus

MEET the

experts F O C U S

F E AT U R E

After years of seeing “quick fixes” and DIY disasters, I understand the importance of having the job done correctly and of high quality the first time.

Plans for 2019 - 2020?

I am always interested in helping people with day to day issues within the plumbing area, and I plan to continue that aspect of my plumbing business into the future. I also aim to grow the renovation side of my business. As I said above, I get a real buzz from helping clients achieve their dream bathrooms, and seeing the finished products really tops it off!

MEET THE

E X P E R T S

Ben Thwaites THWAITE S

What is your area of expertise?

I am a marine engineer and mechanic, with over 17 years of experience. I have worked on super yachts, fishing boats, government vessels, sailing vessels, tenders ...

When and why did you start your business?

After engineering overseas on super yachts and on commercial fishing boats in NZ, I moved to Coffs, where I worked as a diesel mechanic for a local business. Four years ago, I started my own marine business, with my own quality standards.

What is the best thing about your job?

I thrive on big, challenging jobs. I get to spend time outdoors, and I meet a lot of interesting people with great sailing and fishing stories.

What makes your business stand out?

We can service any boat, from small tinnies to big super yachts. Our staff members have a passion for boating, which help us relate to the

M AR I N E

problems our customers may face.

What plans do you have for 2019 - 2020?

We have recently taken on two new dealerships: Stacer boats and Evinrude engines. We have moved into bigger premises and taken on two more staff. Our plan for this next year is to continue to grow, providing outstanding boating service on the Coffs Coast.

Share some expert advice with our readers?

Preventive maintenance is better than an untimely repair. In other words, if your engine hasn’t been serviced for a while, bring it in!

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?

The Coffs Coast provides plenty of boating and fishing opportunities, both in the ocean and in the rivers. It is truly a beautiful place, which we are lucky to call both home and work place.

Coffs Coast focus 55

MEET THE

E X P E R T S

MEET

experts F O C U S

F E AT U R E

Education Centre TH E

The Education Centre provides quality “Clever Kids Tuition” and is open to enthusiastic learners of all ages.

FOCUS had a chat with the director, Liz Stevens, to find out more ...

W

hat is your area of expertise?

We are a privatelyowned tutoring centre that provides the expertise of trained teachers and tutors to assist students in the areas of Maths, English, Science, Physics, Languages and the Arts, plus much more.

We currently select teachers with expertise and passion for assisting students to achieve their own excellence. We aim to make a match between teacher and student, so that everyone benefits from the learning experience and the outcomes reached meet goals and achieve positive results.

When and why did you start your business?

May 1st, 2019 marks 15 years. Fifteen very fulfilling years working closely with the education community and endeavouring to provide a service that supports the learning needs of those who want to improve their knowledge, learn new skills or support their interests.

I understand how difficult it can be for students to work through the many twists and turns of school education. I also understand the pressure the workload places on teachers and their limitations of helping students individually.

What plans do you have for 2019 - 2020?

Like all small businesses, obviously our plan is to grow and expand. I would like to expand our services to offer more subjects for both the school communities and areas of general interest to the public.

We currently are registered for NDIS, and our plan is to develop courses to assist clients with skills to live independently, from reading and writing, cleaning, cooking and everyday tasks.

56 Coffs Coast focus

As the Coffs Coast expands and grows, so will we.

Some tutors have shared their expert advice about their subjects: Our teacher, Kirby Drew, possesses a diverse range of skills she gained from her experiences in disability support work, youth work, mental health and education. She has an ability to connect and relate well to her students to build a rapport. She thinks outside the box with her teaching method and can adapt to cater to her students’ individual needs.

Kirby says of The Education Centre, “Here we adopt a person-centered approach, which caters for each individual student. This approach is about ensuring that all students, from their various learning backgrounds and those with disabilities or other learning difficulties, are at the centre of decisions which relate to their learning.

It involves working together, listening, thinking together, being flexible, mentoring, coaching, sharing ideas, and seeking feedback.”

Drama teacher, Garth Tuckett, is all about the passion, he says: “Of all the education disciplines taught in any institution, Drama is one of the most life developing subjects there is. From ancient Greek tragedy, through Shakespeare’s historical, tragical, and comedy plays, up to the most modern forms of theatre, Drama has survived because of its relevance to the times and values of different cultures throughout the ages.

Any student who is willing to participate fully in this discipline will learn emotional, physical, spatial, and interpersonal development, including improving communication skills. The individual will develop a deep sense of self awareness and discovery, as Drama develops the individual’s

personality and confidence.

Through improvisation and theatre sports games, students will expand their imaginative capacities, as well as creative inspirations. The study of a role in playing a character in a scripted drama teaches the students how to work as a team member, reinforce memory skills, as well as being part of an ensemble which has a common goal via creating a credible reality in an unreal world on the stage in front of a live audience or camera.”

What about Art classes?

Vivien Rink is running our new Art class, “Out and About” for secondary students. This class gets students out of the classroom and into nature.

The focus of the class is dimension and perspective, where children learn to use geometric shapes as building blocks. Three locations (beach, botanical gardens and city square ) focus on different kinds of landscapes and their view.

Why is Science important?

Julie Cross says, “Science is everywhere. Think of a student riding to school on a bus - there are many examples of Science. Outside the window, trees turn sunlight into stored energy and create the oxygen we need to survive, while the bus driver concentrates on speed, time and distance travelled. Every aspect of a student’s life is filled with Science, from their own internal biology to the flat-screen TV at home.

“Perhaps even more important is how we use scientific thought, method and inquiry to come to our decisions. This is not necessarily a conscious action. The need to solve problems can arise from curiosity or necessity. The process of inquiry is how we find answers and substantiate

those answers.”

Why is tutoring Mathematics so important?

Col Graham says many students of all ages lack confidence in their ability.

Tutoring allows a student to work at their own pace, with a dedicated teacher/mentor/ counsellor. No pressure from peers, because they are slower or can’t grasp a concept quickly.

Mathematics is used in our everyday lives, from being able to tell the time to shopping to work. People in all walks of life will use Mathematics every day - people in retail, hospitality, sales persons, buskers, apprentices, tradesmen and women, professionals such as engineers, draftsmen, doctors and nurses.

Children counting their pocket money or ensuring their wages are correct need Mathematics.

We don’t all need top level Mathematics, but primary students need the basics, high school students need to understand everyday Mathematics, senior students need to understand the level of Mathematics they want for the career they choose.

What young people DO need is to gain the self-confidence and understand what they do.

Tutoring helps build that confidence.

How do we get in touch?

Coffs Harbour 62 Bray Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Phone: (02) 6652 2222 Mobile: 0478 413 549 Woolgoolga The Education Centre, Suite 2/7-9, Market St, Woolgoolga NSW 2456 Phone/fax: (02) 6654 8397 Mobile: 0435 979 535 www.theeducationcentre.com.au

CodiHanson.

W S O S

P H O N E

R E P A I R S

hat is your area of expertise?

Fixing phones, but lots of them!

We have 6 stores in the franchise now with the HQ here in Coffs. We fix broken screens, draining batteries, photo and data recovery, that sort of thing. We fixed over 6000 phones in Coffs last year! We fix a lot of iPads and laptop screens too.

When and why did you start your business? What makes you different?

We bought the business at the beginning of 2018, I had worked in management and knew I could add value to the industry by creating a positive environment around repairs.

For a lot of people walking into a workshop environment and talking to a technician can be a bit intimidating.

We’ve created an environment where it doesn’t feel like a workshop, you’re greeted with a smile and leave with a solution, you even get a free coffee card to take to a local cafe while you wait. We want to create as many “wow” moments as we can, people are already having a crappy day when they break their phone, we want that to change by the time you leave.

What’s been the best business advice you’ve received?

Bite off more than you can chew then chew like crazy. I’m not sure if that’s good advice though, it’s worked so far.

What is the best thing about your job?

It sounds cheesy but honestly making people happy. Most repairs are pretty standard but once or twice a day you really really make someone’s day. People might have thought they’d lost photos of a loved one or might not be doing well financially and think they’re up for a new phone but we fix it. Things like that get me so pumped. Our mission statement printed in each store is “Our job isn’t to fix phones, it’s to make people happier than when they walked in the door, fixing phones is just a great way we can do that”.

What plans do you have for 2019/2020?

Firstly we’re working with different teams around Australia to create a range of phone cases made from 100% Australian recycled plastics, we’re excited for that. We’re expanding quickly but want to keep the customers first. 10 locations is the goal but we want to maintain our standard which is the big one! I guess the goal is to have “SOS” come to mind the moment someone breaks their phone or they need help. Even if its just to come in and have a free chat about things they’re unsure about on a new device.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Coffs Coast?

Everything! I love it here, surf in the morning, work all day and drive the doggos on the beach in the evening! Argh! It’s the best. I love it. Sorry I just got excited.

How do we get in contact with you?

You can either give us a call on 6699 2869 or come into the store at 11 Vernon St, Coffs Harbour.

MEET

experts F O C U S

F E AT U R E

Coffs Coast focus 57

MEET THE

Jamie Peculiar

Steve Lawrence (left) and Craig Howe (right)

SA MS AR A

SP SCREENS

SP Screens, formerly known as Mobile Security Doors, has been servicing the Coffs Coast for more than 25 years. FOCUS had a chat with Sales Representative Craig Howe, to find out more ‌ What does SP screens offer clients? to wind down after a busy day. On our way Our goal is to make our clients feel more to the beach we pass a number of clients' comfortable and safer in their homes. Our homes with our screens installed, and it range of security screens and retractable makes us very proud of insect screens, shutters the work we do. and outdoor blinds What is the point of are custom made to difference between ensure a perfect fit yourself and your We believe no other company for our clients' doors competitors? We can rival us when it comes to and windows. We believe no other service, value, range and quality. offer obligation free company can rival With more than twenty years of in-home consultations, us when it comes to experience in the industry, we where we are happy always try to exceed our clients' service, value, range to provide free expectations. and quality. With more advice on the most than twenty years suitable screens to suit of experience in the individual requirements and budgets. industry, we always try to exceed our clients' expectations. Our fully What's the best part of living and trained security licensed specialists will be working on the Coffs Coast? We feel so more than glad to measure, manufacture, lucky to be able to live and work so close to and install products in your home with the the most beautiful beaches in Australia; a dip in the ocean after work is the best way least amount of interruption.

SP Screens Coffs Harbour Formerly trading as Mobile Security Doors

Security Screen Doors and Windows Retractable Insect Screens | Aluminium Privacy Screens | Fire and Emergency Escape Screens Diamond Grille Doors and Windows Plantation Shutters | Outdoor Roller Blinds Roller Shutters | Louvre Patio Roofs

Showroom at – 1/11 Industrial Drive Coffs Harbour

1300 939 700 spscreens.com.au Proudly an Authorised CommandeX Expert Master License No. 000103511

58 Coffs Coast focus

E X P E R T S

TATTO O

What is your area of expertise? The studio is home to seven artists and a shop assistant, so we are fairly diverse with the styles we specialise in. I personally enjoy greywash realism, but collectively we do anything from greywash, colour realism, neo traditional, geometric, lettering, traditional, oriental, and much more.

What makes your business stand out?

I like to think that Samsara has a vibe unlike any other. Our studio space is quaint, artistic and welcoming; the atmosphere in the shop is always very bubbly and often hosts an interesting banter.

What plans do you have for 2019 - 2020?

My personal goal is to push my art/tattooing to a new level by honing my style and designing work to last the test of time. As for the studio, we are collectively looking to attend more tattoo

S TU DIO

conventions and get the name of the shop and each individual artist out there.

How do you keep your team motivated?

I believe that working alongside such phenomenal artists gives me all the motivation I need! To see the incredible work being produced in the shop makes me, and the other artists, want to push ourselves to create the best tattoos possible for our clients. We are inspired by our peers and often discuss techniques and methods to improve our work, consistently raising the bar.

Share some expert advice with our readers?

My best advice is to research your tattoo artist, check out their portfolio, and look for consistency. Don't rush into your tattoo; it's going to be with you for life, so be sure to give it due consideration.

WayneFrank.

T

INTEGRITY NEW HOMES COFFS COAST

ell us about your experience and background in the building industry.

I worked with Dani Marino, Nambucca’s premier builder, for 30 years. I completed my trade and building qualifications locally in 1991. Since then I have trained two apprentices, built numerous unit developments in Nambucca Heads, Nambucca Valley Age Care in 2003 and 2004 and built many high-end homes on steep, difficult sites. I have also built in remote Indigenous communities and National Parks over three years in a 750 km radius of Alice Springs, and formerly owned a building inspection company in Coffs Harbour, before taking up the challenge of restoring the Integrity New Homes brand.

Tell us about some of the new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future ...

We are currently building two new homes in the Nambucca Valley, along with the facelift and new design of the Nambucca Heads Surf Life Saving Club, which will be a major benefit to the Nambucca Valley community.

Integrity New Homes Coffs Coast, in conjunction with a local developer, are putting together house and land packages, as well as preliminary designing a potential 40 lot subdivision in Nambucca Heads on flat land close to the river and all other major amenities.

What are the stand out features or the benefits of building with Integrity New Homes?

Here at Integrity New Home Coffs Coast, we are family oriented and community focused, combining this with many years of experience in the building industry, skilled and knowledgeable trades, quality designs and our ability to specialise in steep, sloping sites; what more can you ask?

What makes you stand out above your competitors?

We care about our clients and listen to what they want and need in their new home, from luxury inclusions to the minor details; we strive to achieve the best for our clients by building high-quality homes.

How can we get in contact?

Call 0405 505 769 or email wayne.frank@inh.com.au

MEET

experts F O C U S

F E AT U R E

Coffs Coast focus 53

MEET THE

E X P E R T S

MEET the

experts F O C U S

F E AT U R E

Creative Toy Shop School holidays are here, and what fun awaits us! However, as parents and carers we all know it can be tricky to find ways to entertain the kids, ALL day long!

There is no easy solution, but getting outdoors is definitely one way to get your children moving, keep their minds active and their imaginations alive.

We are blessed in this country to have great weather for most of the year, which makes it easier to go to the beach, park, river or playground.

Unstructured child-led play allows the child to go at their pace and allows for creativity and promotes independent learning.

But sometimes we can’t get out to a park, playground or beach, so children (and adults) need to find ways to get creative at home.

Playing hide and seek, making things out of cardboard boxes, creating cubby houses with a table, chairs and a sheet, or dress ups are all

great ways to keep children amused indoors.

But for outdoors, a new product range, Slackers® NinjaLine® has just arrived in store, and we are seriously excited about becoming Ninja Warriors …

These new products combine creativity, problem solving and gross motor skills. The easy installation and light storage bag mean the intro kit, climbing ropes, ninja net or ladders can be set up at home, in a park or a grandparent’s house. And best of all, the obstacles can be moved around to create endless set up combinations.

We can assure you this school holidays your children will not be saying, “I’m bored …”

If you need further help with entertaining the kids these holidays, drop us an email at hello@thecreativetoyshop.com.au We are moving at the end of April, so call us on 0423 388 978 after 1st May to find out our new address.

NRMA Coffs Harbour Come in and meet the team of insurance experts at NRMA Coffs Harbour and NRMA Woolgoolga.

You will be able to speak to an insurance professional face to face about your personal insurance needs and circumstances, knowing they understand local issues that are important to you.

You can speak with Liz, Sandra, Ashlee, Joanne, Cathy, Jodie and Anneliese at Coffs Harbour.

With a combined experience of over 60 years in the insurance industry, they pride themselves on their level of service, tailoring policies to the needs of their customers.

Wayne, Kerrie and Alexis can be found at our Woolgoolga office. With a combined experience of over 40 years, they are passionate about

providing high levels of service to their customers.

The teams at NRMA Coffs Harbour and NRMA Woolgoolga are passionate about their communities, presenting the Bus Program to local kindergarten classes at the start of the year and helping at the Special Children’s Christmas Party.

Knowing the colder months are coming, we know how important it is to stay safe in your home. NRMA Home Insurance can protect against the unexpected such as damage to your home by fire, storm, impact and theft or attempted theft. If you rent or live on campus at university, we can protect your personal items in your unit and those items you take with you, such as a tablet or laptop for your studies.

Come in and see why help is who we are.

Get quality Home Insurance at a great price Our Home Insurance includes features like: • New for old replacement of your belongings • Up to a year’s temporary accommodation for you, your family and even your pets • Cover for theft and damage, even if you forget to lock the door Drop into your local branch and chat to the team today.

NRMA Woolgoolga, Shop 13, Woolgoolga Plaza, 42 - 44 Beach Street 6654 8088 nrma.woolgoolga@iag.com.au

School Holiday Play

NRMA Coffs Harbour, 30 Gordon Street 6650 0122 nrma.coffsharbour@iag.com.au or visit www.nrma.com.au

Address: 9/48 Industrial Drive, Boambee, NSW 2450 Email us: hello@thecreativetoyshop.com.au Ph: 0423 388 978

60 Coffs Coast focus

Things you should know: Cover is subject to standard underwriting guidelines and policy terms.

To see if our insurance is right for you, always read the Product Disclosure Statement from the product issuer Insurance Australia Limited trading as NRMA Insurance.

MEET THE

E X P E R T S

at Newcastle University. I then went on to complete my Dental Therapy degree thereafter.

I have completed multiple courses to expand my knowledge and skills since graduation, such as in chair tooth whitening, orthodontics including Invisalign, and treatment options for the anxious patient. Continuing education is an integral part of my career, to keep up with the the fast paced changes in dentistry.

What is your one dental tip? To focus

Fresh Dental Care Susan Waldorf

W

O R A L

H E A LT H

hat is your role at FDC? My role at Fresh Dental Care is an Oral Health Therapist. An Oral Health Therapist (OHT) is dually qualified as a Dental Therapist and Dental Hygienist.

As a Dental Therapist, I provide a broad range of dental treatments for children up to 18 years, such as dental examinations, dental cleans, fillings, placement of deciduous crowns, and extracting deciduous (baby) teeth.

T H E R A PIST

As a Dental Hygienist, I treat people of all ages for preventative dental treatments, gum conditions and oral hygiene instruction.

As an OHT, I educate and motivate people to maintain good oral health by providing relevant education and information, not only in the dental setting, but in the wider community - at schools, parent groups, play groups and residential care settings.

What did you study? I graduated in 2012 after completing a Bachelor of Oral Health

W

on prevention! It is the key to reducing dental problems. Regular routine visits at the dentist means that if there are changes, the concern can be addressed before it becomes problematic.

What is it that you love about your job? I love the interaction with my patients. There is nothing more rewarding than a child skipping down the hallway for their routine dental visit.

I absolutely love what I do!

Dr Sam Brothill DE N TI S T

hat is your role at FDC? We have a range of clinical staff at Fresh Dental Care, and I am one of the general dentists within the team. As a general dentist I offer a broad range of treatments, mainly catering to assisting patients in the general maintenance of their oral health. This may be things such as check-ups and fillings, to more complex treatments such as crowns, root canal treatments and extractions. I also treat nervous patients under nitrous oxide (laughing gas).

What did you study? I studied a Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS). This is a five-year undergraduate degree which I took in 2009, at the University of Sheffield, in the UK. I have since also studied for and passed my membership exams to the Royal College of Surgeons UK. What is it that you love about your job?

There are many aspects of my job that I love, from feeling a sense of satisfaction doing high

quality work, to building strong relationships with my patients.

But one of the main things is being able to help people when they are in real need of help.

Toothache can be severely painful, and patients may put up with it for a number of days before seeking help. Seeing the relief on people’s faces when you relieve their pain is very rewarding.

I would also say another area of my job which I enjoy is treatment of nervous patients and helping people with deep anxieties about going to the dentist. When someone thanks you for making an uncomfortable experience, comfortable, this is very satisfying.

What is your one dental tip? Don’t leave things too long before seeking help, and attend as regularly as you can. Nothing is worse than when teeth cannot be saved. There are many ways in which dentistry can be made more comfortable, so don’t delay!

Bulk billing CDBS available Family-friendly practice Extended opening hours Saturday availability

(Coffs Harbour & Macksville)

Children’s therapist

Grafton

Cnr Queen & Victoria Streets

6643 2225

Coffs Harbour

Suite 1, 252 Harbour Drive

6651 1350

freshdentalcare.com.au

Urunga

46 Bonville Street

6655 5800

Macksville

1 Princess Street

6568 1335

/freshdentalcare.com.au Coffs Coast focus 61

MEET the

experts F O C U S

Cassandra Banks

W

S U SA N

G R E E N

hat is your area of expertise? Family Law, Care and Protection and Wills and Estates.

When and why did you start your business? I took over the practice on 1st April 2018, of all days! April Fools to me!

I worked for Susan Green for five years, and I was her succession plan for when she retired. I enjoy the critical and creative thinking required in my role, and it is extremely fulfilling to be able to help people, often in times where they are at their lowest. Taking over the practice was the

62 Coffs Coast focus

L E GA L

PRACT ICE

next step in my career, and I thoroughly enjoy working as my own boss. I have fabulous staff, and we are an excellent team.

What is the best thing about your job? While there are difficult days, each day requires problem solving to assist my clients, their children and extended families. While I cannot always get a client what they ultimately want, I work extremely hard to get them the best possible outcome.

What makes your business stand out? I have really made an effort to try to have a point of difference. When people ask what I do and I say I am a lawyer, there is usually a stereotypical

F E AT U R E

view of my personality and work - and I hate of the firm and growing into my own brand and that! Over the past 12 months I have worked style of practice. I am asked on an almost daily at increasing my local professional network, basis when I will change the name and right and I have been really pleased to hear people now, “if it aint broke, don’t fix it”! Having said say, “You’re not what I expected. You’re not a that, a name change may come in time, and I ‘typical lawyer’.” That’s right; I have a sense of welcome any suggestions! humour! I pride myself on being a person, then And you have a family as well - how do you a lawyer. I hope to convey to my clients that I juggle it all? My husband is incredibly supportacknowledge what they’re ive. He cooks, cleans, does going through, and I want the washing, plays with the to work hard to get them dog, helps at the office on into a better place for the weekends AND works fulllong term. I am very proud time. Husband of the Year, I hope to convey to to receive frequent referright here! He truly is wonmy clients that I rals from crisis support derful, and I couldn’t ask acknowledge what services in the local area. for a more supportive and they’re going through, This is because clients who loving partner in crime - no and I want to work hard need these services need pun intended. My parents to get them into a better someone who fulfils all of live locally, and they are also place for the long term. the criteria I strive for and a wonderful support. if other local professionals What do you enjoy most trust me with their clients about working on the as well, I must be doing Coffs Coast? The lifestyle something right!

- while I work hard, I really appreciate the Coffs What plans do you have for 2019 - 2020?

Coast. I am in Sydney twice a month, and Annaliese Drayton joined the team as a solicitor literally every time I step off the plane back in in December 2018. Together, we are increasing Coffs, I appreciate the clean coastal air and the the variety of clients accessing our services. I am (comparatively) relaxed lifestyle. It is a beautiful gradually diverting from the previous branding place to live.

MEET THE

Russells MEATS R U S S E L L

A N D

D E B

G R E E N W O O D

hat is your connection with the Coffs Coast?

My wife, Deborah and I moved here back in 2000.

We raised our daughter here, and our first grandson was born here.

What influenced you to become a butcher?

My father was my biggest influence - it was get a job, or stay in school. I took the job at the age of 14.

Can you tell us a bit about the history of your business? When and why did you first open your doors?

I purchased the butcher shop in Park Beach Plaza back in 2000, which my wife and I ran for 18 years. We met many wonderful people during that time. I also entered meat industry related competitions and was very successful in both the Sausage King with the Australian Meat Industry Council and the Sydney Royal Agricultural Society, and of course quality meat. In 2018, it was time to call it a day. After a few months, the opportunity arose to open at Moonee with a brand new concept towards the way retail is heading, so Deb and I took a leap forward and opened our Moonee store in August 2018.

You’re now located at Moonee Market Place. Tell us about the growth and positive impact this has had on your business.

I can’t really say too much about the growth, as we all know the Northern Beaches are going forward in leaps and bounds. We have been very lucky to be accepted by

E X P E R T S

Russell Greenwood has been a butcher on the Coffs Coast for close to 19 years and recently opened a purpose-built shop at Moonee Market: Russells Prime Quality Meats. FOCUS spoke with Russell about the new venture, his range of gourmet products and the importance of quality.

the locals (new customers and our previous ones coming Can you tell us why the meat is always better from out for a drive). Everyone loves Moonee Market Shopping a butcher, rather than a supermarket?

Centre and our new shop. Gowings have done a great Unfortunately, supermarkets have lost their people job. skills. You can see this by the number of self serve What do you like most about being a butcher? checkouts. In most cases, the meat is packed at a central Always early to rise. I enjoy a packing premises. At least if coffee with my wife in the morning, you buy off a butcher, you are which is always the best start to the supporting a small business. day. Work usually starts by speaking What other products do you to my suppliers, then arranging the sell in store?

In 2018, it was time meat for the shop. After that’s done, Well, good question. I O to call it a day. After the preparation begins - could be Shen knives, chutneys, pesto, a few months, the preparing lambs, orders, beef, and crackers, dips, olives, cheeses, opportunity arose to even making sausages. mayonnaise, aged meat from open at Moonee with Do you home deliver? our Himalayan salt dry ageing a brand new concept Not at the moment, but it’s not out unit, and much more. You will towards the way retail of the question. have to visit us to see our full is heading, so Deb and Has the market changed since you range.

I took a leap forward started running the shop?

Tell us about your community and opened our Moonee Yes, definitely. Due to the drought, involvement. store in August 2018. the price of quality meat has We support both Rotary Club increased - the same as fruit and and Lions Club. veggies. Like everyone else, we can Can you tell us something only do the best we can. that we might not already We think your meat is a CUT above the rest (sorry, know? we can’t help ourselves). What meat cuts can we Follow us on Facebook; we share recipes weekly. expect to see more of this year?

How do we get in touch?

Most people like easy, so depending on the season Come in and see us at Moonee Marketplace, Moonee determines what customers eat, from a roast to a chicken Beach, or give us a call on 0435 202 808. filo - it could even be just a sausage sandwich.

Thanks Russell.

Coffs Coast focus 63

focus_travel

WITH KERRY MOSS FROM QUADRANT TRAVEL

is the

Group

for you

Cattle, Cropping and Calgary Tour to Canada Local tour company Quadrant Travel and Journeys is offering FOCUS readers the chance to join their Cattle, Cropping and Calgary Tour to Canada in July 2019.

Their tours are a unique mix of agriculture and sightseeing, and this tour includes spectacular Canada, home of the Canadian Rockies, largescale cattle ranches and vast cropping farms, as well as the greatest show on earth, the Calgary Stampede. Travellers will tour across the Rockies and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Banff and Lake Louise and learn about old-style ranching ways. A unique opportunity to enjoy a day at "Ag in Motion", Western Canada’s outdoor farm expo and experience the diversity of the country’s agricultural enterprises from west to east, from cattle, cropping and seed production to vegetables, dairy and cheesemaking.

Quadrant Australia’s Operations Manager, Kerry Moss, says, “Our travellers really enjoy the

opportunity to travel with like-minded people.

The friendships and connections made really do last a life time.” On her last trip to Canada, Kerry visited Canada’s largest farmers markets in Amish country, and then took the group to visit a Hutterite Colony, where groups of families farm cooperatively on the prairies. She found this experience so memorable, that she has been able to include it as one of the unique opportunities on the tour this year.

Quadrant Australia is a specialist travel company that provides travel services and organises special interest agricultural groups.

They have been taking travellers all over the world for more than 30 years. With membership in the world’s leading travel industry bodies and a network of colleagues in over 40 countries, their offices in Coffs Harbour, Armidale and Brisbane are staffed by an experienced, professional and helpful team who have travelled extensively.

Ever wondered if travelling in a group is right for you? Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel and Journeys gives you her top 10 benefits of travelling on a group tour.

1. You’ll gain valuable local knowledge and get access to things that you can’t do on your own. Whether it’s lunch in a 14th Century castle or knowing which street is the safest to walk on, being in a group allows you to learn from those who have travelled the path before you.

2. You can save money. Tour operators such as Quadrant Australia have access to group airfares and discounted hotel rates. When a company is able to purchase a larger number of rooms, they can get it for a cheaper price than if you were to book one room on your own. These savings are then passed on to you. Better still, share the cost of your room with a suitably matched person on the tour.

3. You can relax. Some say that when you travel as a group, you can leave the worry behind. You don’t need to think about flight times, travel routes and restaurant bookings; it’s all done for you in advance. Navigating red tape on your own can be exhausting, especially when you don’t know the language or customs.

4. Your time is precious. So you get your annual three week holiday, and you start planning it, an hour here and there, and before you know it you’ve forgotten to pick the kids up from school, because you were too busy researching how to get from Rome airport to your centrally located Rome hotel.

Professional tour companies do this for a living; they know when, where and how much, and it takes them a quarter time to find it.

5. You’ll share first-time experiences with someone else. Nothing nicer than trekking to the top of a mountain and turning to the person beside you and saying, “We did that!” Sharing your experience with old and

64 Coffs Coast focus

new friends enhances your holiday.

6. You’ll practice patience. Travelling with a group can be a selfless practice; you’ll share your space, you may compromise on timings, and you might need to give up the front seat of the coach occasionally. You don’t need to see this as a negative - quite the opposite. It’s a good reminder of worthwhile life skills.

7. You’ll meet different people from different places. People who travel in groups connect with others whom they may not have otherwise. These meetings can result in lifelong friendships, or might just teach us tolerance, both nationally and globally, but either way you’re better for it.

8. Food tastes better with friends. Don’t get me wrong; I’m comfortable dining on my own in a crowded restaurant, but nothing beats the laughter as you learn to use chopsticks together eating noodles in Shanghai. Being with a group gives you courage. I’m not sure I would have eaten jellyfish or haggis had I not been “encouraged” (some may some pressured!) by my new friends.

9. Safety in numbers. Need I say more?

10. No need to argue over directions any more. Be it in a bus, train or plane, you can be assured that your group travel program will be well managed. Sit back and relax, and let someone else drive for a while. It might even save your marriage!

Quadrant Travel and Journeys is a local based travel agent who can help you with all of your travel needs. Their office is located in Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour, and they have a team of experts ready to help you with your travel questions.

Happy (group) travels …

Value Packed.

The GLA and GLC Urban Editions have arrived. Now available at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast, they're value-packed with extras. Featuring panoramic glass sunroof, KEYLESS GO comfort pack, heated & electric memory front seats, metallic paintwork and more, the GLA and GLC Urban Editions are ready to take your urban SUV experience to a whole new level.

Ends May 31 2019. Visit Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast and make your move today.

GLA 180 Urban Edition

$49,900

*

Drive away

With over $3,500 in extras.

GLC 200 Urban Edition

$69,900

*

Drive away

With up to $8,500 in extras.

*$69,900 (incl. GST) is the maximum recommended drive away price for the GLC 200 Urban Edition. $49,900 (incl. GST) is the maximum recommended drive away price for the GLA 180 Urban Edition.

Vehicles must be ordered between 1 April and 31 May 2019, and delivered by 30 June 2019 at participating Mercedes-Benz retailers, or while stocks last. Not available in conjunction with any other offer.

Further details at www.mercedesbenz.com.au/urbanedition.

Mercedes-Benz Cos Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Cos Harbour 02 6648 3519 DL3461 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au Coffs Coast focus 65

Celebrating YEARS

RLE ELECTRICAL AND ENERGY 66 Coffs Coast focus

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

focusfeature.

Celebrating YEARS

RLE ELECTRICAL AND ENERGY FOCUS SAT DOWN WITH REG LATTER ELECTRICAL, WHO ARE CELEBRATING A MASSIVE MILESTONE OF BEING IN BUSINESS FOR 40 YEARS! WITH REG NOW IN RETIREMENT, WE SPOKE TO HIS DAUGHTER, RENAE ABOUT HOW THE BUSINESS HAS EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS AND WHERE THEY SEE IT HEADING WITH REG'S SON, ADAM IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT.

W

hat are the “Reg Latter” family links to Coffs Harbour? What is the start of the story for Reg Latter

the electrician?

Reg’s mother grew up in Coffs Harbour, and his pop had the bread run with a horse and cart, so from a very young age Reg visited his grandparents - and even attended the local primary school for a short time.

Reg began his trade training at 16 years old as an electrical fitter mechanic in Brisbane, with a large company, E.L. Burley & Co. Reg met his wife, Alison, at a New Year’s Eve dance at the “old” Coffs Harbour Civic Centre, when he was 19. Alison was a local girl, and

they married in 1970.

Reg and Alison moved to Brisbane, where Reg was working. However, it was not long before they returned to Coffs Harbour, in 1972. On his return, Reg’s first job was with Retravision retail store as an appliance repairer, whilst also doing night bar works at Coffs Golf Club. He later worked for several electrical companies, before moving to Bonville in 1979, where he has lived for the last 40 years.

That same year in, 1979, Reg and Alison started Reg Latter Electrical. Things were a lot different back then - no mobile phones, email or iPads - communications to Reg from his home land line to out in the field were done by a radio paging system.

Coffs Coast focus 67

focusfeature.. focus focusfeature

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

Celebrating YEARS

RLE ELECTRICAL AND ENERGY

68 Coffs Coast focus

During this time, Reg also volunteered for the SES for over 10 years, coordinating communications and assisting in rescues.

Reg’s brother-in-law, Brian moved to Coffs Harbour in 1988 and joined RLE - they were quite the team, and later Brian’s son, Matthew also completed his apprenticeship with Reg. Reg’s son, Adam, who liked to help in the school holidays, began his apprenticeship in 1999; like his cousin Mathew, Adam topped his technical class each year during his training at Grafton TAFE. Adam’s interest in powerlines led the business into the level 1 arena. Through this Adam has gained multiple qualifications alongside his electrical trade, including licences to perform high risk works. When Adam does

get some free time, he enjoys camping with his family and riding motor bikes.

In 2003 Renae, Reg’s daughter, joined the family business and took on the administration duties. With Reg freed up in the office, the family business grew.

What does Reg Latter Electrical 40 years later look like?

RLE has seen significant growth, from a one-man operation working out of his garage in Bonville, to now having a team of skilled personnel, being office administrators, electricians and apprentices.

In 2006 RLE moved into shared premises with Advanced Pumping and Irrigation in Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour. While we enjoyed our Isles Drive location, by 2016 we had started

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

focusfeature.

RLE ELECTRICAL AND ENERGY

to outgrow the space and moved to new premises at 28 Hulberts Road, Toormina.

After 40 years, Reg Latter Electrical has recently undergone a design face lift and rebrand to “RLE Electrical and Energy”, which better incorporates the types of services offered.

As Reg is now enjoying his retirement, Adam and Renae, supported by two remarkable managers along with a fantastic team in the office and in the field, will continue to operate RLE following good old-

The ability to adapt and change with both advancements in technology and changes within the electrical industry has been fundamental to the longevity of RLE.

fashioned values, such as honesty, integrity and transparency.

In the 40 years, what are some of the biggest enhancements the industry has faced, and how has Reg Latter Electrical adapted to these changes? Good and bad …

The ability to adapt and change with

both advancements in technology and changes within the electrical industry has been fundamental to the longevity of RLE. The migration from manually operated systems to automated machines, lighting systems, information technology, fibreoptic and home automation...

WHS has certainly seen a major change

over the 40 years, with new processes and regulations to ensure the safety and wellbeing of people working in the trade.

Environmental awareness and care have also improved, with the introduction of sustainable practices and the development of energy efficient products that save the consumer and environment.

One thing that hasn’t changed is the way we do business - honest, open and providing the best product and service for the best price.

Coffs Coast focus 69

focusfeature.

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

RLE ELECTRICAL

,

AND ENERGY What does Reg Latter Electrical specialise in? into constructing Essential Energy underground What are the various arms of your business, and overhead network power reticulation and how many staff services for new and existing do you employ developments. We offer locally? this service both locally Reg Latter Electrical throughout the mid north (RLE) has always coast and also the north RLE completes provided a wide west of NSW. Recent works electrical range of electrical and include interesting places installations, associated services, such as Lightning Ridge, and maintenance from same day hot Wee Waa, Mungindi, Moree, for domestic, water repairs to Boggabilla and Boggabri. commercial, ongoing commercial RLE completes electrical industrial and maintenance and installations, and rural properties. large-scale projects. We maintenance for domestic, pride ourselves on our commercial, industrial and versatility and ability to rural properties. We also do deliver results to our new homes, mains power clients. connections, street and park lighting and housing Over the last decade RLE has branched out subdivisions. Additionally, we construct overhead

REG LATTER ELECTRICAL

70 Coffs Coast focus

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

focusfeature.

Celebrating YEARS

and underground Essential Energy network assets, including pad mount substations, pole mounted substations and line extensions.

Recently completed projects include: • The Essential Energy network pole relocations for Sections 7, 8 and 9 of the RMS Pacific Highway - Woolgoolga to Ballina project at New Italy; • A new multi-storey Build with FM Glenn Seashells at Park Beach; • Woolgoolga Sports Field lighting and power supply upgrade; • Moree Hospital supply upgrade;

• Coffs Harbour Base • NBN overhead RLE has also been Hospital UPS upgrade; fibre installation the Rheem Hot Water • Baringa Hospital supply and pole changes in service agent in the upgrade, new ICU and Woolgoolga.; region for 30 years, theatres; • Japara Nursing home supplying warranty • Jetty4Shores project, Park renovation on Victoria services with speed Beach Walkway Lighting with St in Coffs Harbour; and efficiency.

AJ Civil.

• Marion Grove Projects we are currently Retirement Village working on include: refurbishment projects • Toormina Safer Communities project, that New builds for F+SJ Maione and Paul Newton involves the installation of the lighting for the Constructions.

Velodrome, Skatepark and Toormina Oval; RLE has also been the Rheem Hot Water

service agent in the region for 30 years, supplying warranty services with speed and efficiency. We also service and repair most makes and models of hot water systems, including solar, heat pumps and boiler units.

At present, RLE employs a dynamic team of 30 local people, who all pride themselves on attention to detail, combined with great customer service skills, enabling them to complete their work professionally and efficiently. We encourage the growth of the industry and currently employ eight apprentices.

Coffs Coast focus 71

focusfeature.

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

You’ve built an iconic Coffs Harbour Tyrepower, Coffs Workwear, Bonville Smash local business and are known for your Repair, and Powerful Accounting. support of other local business. How The Coffs Coast is blessed with a important to you is great range “keeping it local”? of businesses, Keeping it local is offering technical extremely important to knowledge Keeping it local is RLE - being part of the and specialised extremely important community and seeing services; we to RLE - being part of the beautiful Coffs Coast employ local the community and flourish. sub contractors seeing the beautiful Wherever possible, we to assist us in Coffs Coast flourish. buy locally; an example completing of local businesses projects by utilising we have enjoyed their specific a partnership with expertise. include: CNW Electrical We strongly Wholesalers, Cetnaj Lighting and Electrical, believe locals supporting locals is an Sawtell Mechanical, My Mortgage investment in the growth and future of the Manager, MidCoast Switch Boards, Adams Coffs Coast Community.

Sawmill, Bananacoast Powertools, Cutlers

72 Coffs Coast focus

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

focusfeature.

Celebrating YEARS

RLE ELECTRICAL AND ENERGY What type of community events do you get behind?

RLE believes in giving back to the community and get great satisfaction from contributing to worthy causes in whatever way we can. We enjoy sponsoring and assisting local charities, events and sporting clubs such as: • Cancer Council Relay for Life; • Orara Valley Fair; • Coffs Harbour Show Society Agricultural Show; • Special Children’s Party; • Nambucca Valley Netball; • Sawtell Tennis club; • Coffs Harbour Kart Club.

Coffs Coast focus 73

focusfeature.

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

What are some of the highlights of the business?

There are many highlights to be enjoyed working in the electrical trade; we enjoy a great variety of work, bringing with it many challenges and triumphs, which keeps it very interesting.

We are very fortunate to work with a talented, enthusiastic team of professionals, both in the office and our technicians in the field.

Being able to live and work on the Coffs Coast is a significant highlight, as the region continues to grow, which in turn provides our business and team with new opportunities to develop new skills and expertise.

A highlight we really enjoy is working together with our clients to complete projects professionally - on time and

CONGRATULATIONS

REG LATTER ELECTRICAL on

40 YEARS

Thank you for 15 years of ongoing service to our Sawtell Catholic Care of the Aged community.

www.scca.net.au (02) 6653 1641

74 Coffs Coast focus

Marian Grove L I F E S T Y L E

Mater Christi RESIDENTIAL

within budget.

It is exciting for us to see our clients’ projects from perception to completion; it is nice to be able to offer a complete service, by providing the lead in power reticulation works and electrical components for new builds and renovations.

We also have a great relationship with our subcontractors and by working together, projects come to life. A few that come to mind are - AJ Civil Projects, Harvey Excavations, Blaize Earthworks, Pureflow Plumbing, Advanced Technology, Cable & Pipe Locations, Coffs City Cranes, Coffs Solar, Northpipe Constructions and Preferred Energy.

A recent highlight was completing the Seashells

R E G

L A T T E R

E L E C T R I C A L

focusfeature.

Celebrating YEARS

RLE ELECTRICAL AND ENERGY Apartments at Park Beach. This was an 18 grow and reach some of life’s big milestones plus month build with FM Glenn and the like buying their first house, getting married Bachrach Naumburger Group. We had a and having families. great team on the To this day, RLE still project, and the 44 services many of Reg’s apartments over original customers, the 12 storeys is a continuing a happy testament to their working relationship It is exciting for hard work and now forty years on. This us to see our dedication. is something that we clients’ projects You employ a lot are very proud of. from perception to of people locally; The culture at RLE completion; it is nice describe your focuses on safely to be able to offer a culture in the working together, complete service, by business ... treating each other and providing the lead in What part of RLE our clients and their power reticulation are you most property with respect. works and electrical proud of?

We believe in team components for Whilst our work to achieve the new builds and numbers have results and expectations renovations. increased over of our clients. the years, we still Our customer service operate as a family culture is orientated business, always providing a personal to always strive to meet and exceed approach with our customers and team. It is expectations of time, quality and while nice to see our apprentices and employees being totally dependable.

Congratulations to Reg Latter Electrical on celebrating 40 years in the business.

- from all of us at F & SJ Maione Pty Ltd

Licence No. 151260C

Ph: (02) 6652 4876 | fsjmaione@bigpond.com www.fsjmaione.com

Coffs Coast focus 75

focusfeature.

R L E

E L E C T R I C A L

A N D

E N E R G Y

Celebrating YEARS

RLE ELECTRICAL AND ENERGY

Is there any advice you can give to someone wanting to start their own business?

The best advice would be always do the right thing, be honest, stick by your word and surround yourself with people who have the same values and integrity.

Business has its ups and downs.

Sometimes it can feel like walking on a tight rope to keep everything and everyone happy and balanced, but being honest and transparent in all dealings sees things through.

Where do you hope to take the

76 Coffs Coast focus

business in the coming years?

We hope to continue servicing our existing and new clients, and to provide them with the best quality service possible.

We will keep evolving to meet future demands with technology, safety and client expectations.

We would like to thank FOCUS for the generous offer of this business feature, and our wonderful clients and suppliers that joined us and made it possible: Pacific Vet Care, My Mortgage Manager, Mid Coast Switchboards, CNW, AJ Civil, Adams

Sawmill, Pureflow Plumbing, Centaj, Bananacoast Power Tools, Coffs Solar, Hager Australia, Bonville Smash Repairs, Powerful Accounting, Sawtell Mechanics, Marion Grove, Harvey Excavations, FJ Malone, Paul Newton Constructions, Cutlers Tyre Power, Business By Design, Coffs Workwear and Safety and Coffs City Cranes.

Over the 40 years we have worked with and alongside many amazing people, for which we are very grateful, and we are looking forward to many more years on the Coffs Coast.

BY MICHAEL ADENDORFF

BY MICHAEL ADENDORFF

Living Paradise at at Wattlebird Wattlebird Living in in Paradise

Bypass BypassImpacts Impacts and andOpportunities Opportunities AsAsmost mostofofususareareaware, aware,thetheNSW NSWGovernment Governmenthas hasannounced announcedthat thatthey theyand and thetheAustralian AustralianGovernment Governmentare arefunding fundingthe theCoffs CoffsHarbour Harbourbypass bypassproject. project.The The announcement announcementfurther furtherstates statesthe theproject projectseeks seekstotoimprove improveconnectivity, connectivity, road roadtransport transportefficiency efficiencyand andsafety safetyfor forlocal localand andinterstate interstatemotorists. motorists.

Constructionononthe thebypass bypassisisdue duetotocommence commenceinin2020.

2020.

Construction

II

n my experience, theenvironmental, environmental, n my experience, the social and other impactsofofa amajor major social and other impacts project such theCoffs CoffsHarbour Harbour project such asas the city bypass can massive.The The city bypass can bebemassive. impacts range from immediate impacts range from immediate toto long term.

They can and includedirect direct long term. They can and dodoinclude impacts of construction and works around impacts of construction and works around project residents propertycloser closertoto thethe project onon residents ofofproperty the site of the new road and related works. the site of the new road and related works.

AcquisitionNotice Noticeisisissued. issued. This formal Acquisition This formal noticewill willstate statethe theintention intentionto toacquire acquirethe the notice propertyafter afteraacertain certaintime timeperiod. period.IfIfno no property purchasecan canbe benegotiated negotiatedbefore beforethe theend end purchase of the notice period, the legal and equitable of the notice period, the legal and equitable interestsininthe theproperty propertyare areconverted converted interests through a legal process to an entitlementto to through a legal process to an entitlement compensation. compensation.

Build Build Your Your Dream Dream Home Home -- Small Small Acreage Acreage Right Near The Coast Right Near The Coast Just Just aa short short 10-minute 10-minute drive drive from from Nambucca Nambucca Heads you will find 24 Lifestyle from Heads you will find 24 Lifestyle Acreages Acreages from $230,000.00 in the tranquil Wattlebird Estate. $242,500.00 in the tranquil Wattlebird Estate.

Having Having close close proximity proximity to to absolutely absolutely stunning stunning pristine beaches, the estate like pristine beaches, the estate is is ideal ideal if if you you like boating, fishing, water skiing and of course, boating, fishing, water skiing there there isis golf, golf, peace peace and and quiet, good food and friendly people in its friendly people in its surrounds. surrounds. Wattlebird Estate is truly a paradise.

Estate is truly a paradise. Secure affordable land now now and and experience experience aa country country lifestyle that provides provides endless endless opportunities opportunities … micro-agriculture, ture, chooks chooks and and space space for for a horse for the kids.

Location Location and and Lifestyle Lifestyle The Nambucca Nambucca Valley Valley has has Australia’s best The average temperatures, temperatures, aa unique scenic location average with aa welcoming welcoming community, community, lovely quiet with towns with with all all the the amenities amenities and great medical towns

facilities, including including aa newly newlyannounced announcedhospital hospital facilities, coming and a good choice of schools available coming and a good choice of schools available in Nambucca Nambucca Heads, Heads, Macksville Macksvilleand andBowraville.

Bowraville. in Wattlebird Estate is ideal for people looking for Wattlebird Estate is ideal for people looking for a break from suburbia and who want to enjoy a break from suburbia and who want to enjoy being outdoors, outdoors, without withoutbuying buyingaasecond secondjob. job. being Blocks available range from large one (1) hectBlocks available range from large one (1) hectare lots lots (2.4 (2.4 acres), acres), to to the thelargest largestblock blockLot Lot are 12 being a huge 9.37 acres … more than 12 being a huge 9.37 acres … more than enough space space for for your yourdream dreamhome, home,aachook chook enough pen, space for the kids to play, plus all have pen, space for the kids to play, plus all have good undulating, undulating, well-drained well-drainedproductive productivesoils soils good to grow grow fruit fruit trees trees in in aabeautiful beautifulpiece pieceof ofthe the to country. country.

Get Help Help Choosing Choosing the theRight RightBlock Blockfor forYour Your Get Needs Needs To To help help get get the the dream dreamof ofowning owningyour yourvery veryown own acreage, acreage, contact contact the the sales salesagent agentPaul Paul Loughland Loughland on on 0402 0402 639 639265 265or or1800 1800699 699560.

560.

essentialthat thatyou, you,including includingthose thosewho who It Itisisessential maynot notsuspect suspecttotobe beimpacted, impacted,consider consider Those direct impacts can takethe theform formofof Those direct impacts can take may yourposition positioncarefully carefullyand andestablish establishhow how compulsory acquisitions, whereproperties properties compulsory acquisitions, where your theproject projectmight mightimpact impactyou. you.To Tothat thatend, end, and businesses acquiredtotoallow allowthe the and businesses areare acquired the furtherdetails detailsabout aboutthe theproject projectare areavailable available project proceed.They They canalso alsotake takethe the project toto proceed. can further onlineand andalso alsofor for form noise, pollution form ofof noise, pollution online inspectionininthe theCBD CBD and like.

Anyone and thethe like.

Anyone inspection at 11A Park Avenue who is affected may who is affected may bebe at 11A Park Avenue CoffsHarbour.

Harbour.Also, Also, entitled compensation, entitled toto compensation, Coffs So, yes, the old highway So, yes, the old highway to seek legal advice, including for works including for works to seek legal advice, ifif canbebechanged, changed, can youestablish establishthat thatyou you to insulate properties, to insulate properties, you beautified,and andbecome become beautified, might be affected by double glaze windows, double glaze windows, might be affected by newhub hubwithin withinour our aanew the project. replace evaporative replace evaporative the project. community. community. air conditioning with There are also air conditioning with There are also refrigerated, and to good news impacts refrigerated, and to good news impacts build privacy screens of the project. Some build privacy screens of the project. Some for properties that are of those impacts will for properties that are of those impacts will affected. Other issues may be harder to follow when the existing road will become affected. Other issues may be harder to follow when the existing road will become identify in advance, such as the impact of a local road.

So, effectively the old road will identify in advance, such as the impact of a local road. So, effectively the old road will headlights at night. Noise impacts that also become a local community asset. We can headlights at night. Noise impacts that also become a local community asset. We can affect a number of properties may be even already start dreaming and planning for that affect a number of properties may be even already start dreaming and planning for that more difficult to gauge in advance. outcome, I believe. So, yes, the old highway more difficult to gauge in advance. outcome, I believe. So, yes, the old highway In the case of an acquisition, an RMS can be changed, beautified, and become In the case of an acquisition, an RMS can be changed, beautified, and become representative will first attempt to contact the a new hub within our community. What representative will first attempt to contact the a new hub within our community. What owners and tenants of properties affected by is now crass and ugly can be a community owners and tenants of properties affected by is now crass and ugly can be a community acquisition by door knocking in your area. In asset. acquisition by door knocking in your area. In asset. this initial conversation, information would be Research shows that bypass projects have this initial conversation, information would be Research shows that bypass projects have provided about the project, as well as general positive outcomes for communities, and I provided about the project, as well as general positive outcomes for communities, and I information about the acquisition process. hold much hope that will be so for our muchinformation about the acquisition process. hold much hope that will be so for our muchFormally, the first step in the compulsory loved Coffs Harbour.

Formally, the first step in the compulsory loved Coffs Harbour. process is that a so-called Proposed Michael Adendorff. process is that a so-called Proposed Michael Adendorff.

Coffs Coast focus 77 Coffs Coast focus 77

focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

Steve HARBOUR CARPET CLEANING

S

teve, welcome to Business Minds. Tell us about how you came to call the Coffs Coast home?

I met my wife, Bianca when we were living on the Gold Coast. Bianca was born and bred in Coffs Harbour, and we used to come down here for the holidays. When we got married and started to have kids, we thought there was no better place than the Coffs Coast to raise a family. That was 12 years ago, so I guess I’m officially a local now!

Your business, Harbour Carpet Cleaning has been around for seven years. What services do you provide customers?

Our main service, as the name suggests, is carpet cleaning. We work with many real estates in Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas doing vacate steam cleans and flea treatments.

There are a great deal of renters who care about the property they’re renting and call us each time they move, because they know we do a great job.

We also do a lot of residential cleaning for our clients who are giving the house a spring clean. This might include their carpets, lounges, rugs, dining chairs, mattresses and even the car! Our steam clean doesn’t just clean; it also removes any hidden nasties like germs, viruses or dust mites, which is reassuring for parents or pet owners.

We also do commercial cleans, fabric or carpet protection and leather cleaning. Our drop off rug service has been very popular with

78 Coffs Coast focus

rug owners too! workmanship at a Client satisfaction and the flexibility of owning our own business are What do you find to reasonable price, probably what motivates me the be the best marketing be punctual and most! The positive feedback channels to use for your always communicate we continue to get is very business? with our clients. I rewarding, and it really does The best marketing, as constantly put myself motivate you to keep doing with every business, is word in the client’s shoes all the things which made of mouth. We often get and think, “What that client happy. Owning our calls like,“You cleaned my would I want in a own business also means I get to friend’s house and now we carpet cleaner?” hang out with my kids a lot more. are moving out; can you do No one wants to ours?” wait around all day As a mum and dad for a tradie to show business, we don’t have up, which is why we the marketing budget like a big internationally always confirm our bookings the day before owned franchise does, so word of mouth has and show up on time! been vital for us. We’ve always had the goal As carpet cleaners, we’re conscious of the of being Coffs Harbour’s go to steam cleaners, fact that we’re inside someone’s home and and you simply won’t achieve that if you entering their personal space, so building trust take short cuts. Our customers’ satisfaction is is important to us. Being reliable, trustworthy paramount, and happy customers keep food and exceeding our clients’ expectations all drive on the table for our family! loyalty and are a big reason why our clients call What’s the most interesting part of your us time and time again to help them out. job?

What motivates you about your work?

Definitely the people you meet. I’ve done Client satisfaction and the flexibility of many jobs for refugee families who have owning our own business are probably what incredible stories about where they’re from, motivates me the most! The positive feedback how they wound up here and the differences we continue to get is very rewarding, and it between the two. The job after that might really does motivate you to keep doing all the be a third-generation Coffs local who can tell things which made that client happy. me every bit of progress the town has made!

Owning our own business also means I get There’s also all the furry friends I get to meet! to hang out with my kids a lot more. Growing Being in a service-based business, how do up in Sydney, my dad was out the door before you drive customer loyalty? we got up and often getting home as we went My main objective is to provide quality to bed, so I always try to start my day once the

kids are on the way to school, and I’m usually home again to help run them around for their after-school activities. I love being able to do that.

Living on the beautiful Coffs Coast, what do you enjoy most about this piece of paradise?

Probably the beaches, the weather and the people. The beaches, compared to other parts of the East Coast, are relatively uncrowded and incredibly beautiful. The weather is usually always nice, and the winter is mild compared to Sydney!

Lastly, I enjoy getting to know the Coffs Harbour locals. Coffs has a great, close knit community, and many of our clients have become lifelong friends over the years! Nearly every day we’re reminded that we truly live in the best spot!

Three things you can’t live without ...

1. My family. My wife is the definition of super mum, and I simply wouldn’t be able to run Harbour Carpet Cleaning without her help!

I also love being a dad. I’m a big kid myself, so I genuinely love hanging out with my three kids.

2. My dog. To be clear, she’s part of the family, but as a dog lover, we couldn’t live without her and we wouldn’t want to raise kids without a dog by our side!

3. The beach. On the weekends, I’ll be searching for waves up north or down at the Jetty with the kids. It’s virtually impossible to be in a bad mood when you’re at the beach!

Thanks Steve.

focus_education

W

WITH BDC PRINCIPAL NICK JOHNSTONE

StudentWellbeing.

hat is the issue? The to provide practical student strategies to deal statistics are shocking. Rosie with issues; Clarke, the editor of School 3. Have strong student involvement e.g. student News, quoted some scary mentoring, buddy programs and student numbers in a recent article. leadership programs to provide a strong student Seventy per cent of mental illness and suicidal voice; behaviours begin between the ages of 12 and 4. Have extensive experiential outdoor education 25 in Australia, and this year two young people programs e.g. five-day journey based camps, with per week ended their lives. Henrietta Cook has opportunities for rites of passage development to also reported in The Age that children in the build resilience and pride in performance; primary years are facing increases in anxiety 5. Have traditions within the school that due to highly aspirational parents and excessive recognise and affirm strong human connections online experiences. One Victorian primary school principal, who wanted to remain anonymous, e.g. service programs and multi-age teaching and said, “I have seen selflearning programs; harming in children as 6. Have strong partnerships young as Prep (NSW Kindy with wellbeing services age), grade one and two."

The Wellbeing Framework is both internally and a foundational document that The Commonwealth externally e.g. school provides Australian schools and State Governments psychologists, school with a vision and a set of guiding are well aware of these counsellors, school principles to support school issues, and even the most chaplains, GPs, mental communities to build positive recent Federal Budget has health professionals; learning environments, and to aligned more funding for 7. Have an open door consider reviewing their current 30 additional headspace safety and wellbeing policies and policy for student support services. support requirements. e.g. drop-in centre in What can be done? In schools or wellbeing hubs.

October last year, the Hon Take some time to speak Dan Tehan MP, Minister for Education, launched the Australian Student Wellbeing Framework. The Wellbeing Framework is a foundational document that provides Australian schools with a vision and a set of guiding principles to support school communities to build positive learning environments, and to consider reviewing their current safety and wellbeing policies and support requirements. The Wellbeing Framework includes suggested school targets on leadership, inclusion, student voice, partnerships and support.

The “on the ground” action needs to be practical. Schools that are making inroads with these wellbeing issues have the following key characteristics:

to your school about what they are doing in this space. The principles of wellbeing need to be in the front row of your school’s planning and practice. All children need support, and it is the doctrine of “it takes a village to raise a child” that is the take-home message here.

Well researched programs with specific and targeted plans, together with positive and regular

3

communication are the key to supporting student wellbeing.

Sources: Cook, H. (2019). Principals sound the alarm on mental illness in primary school kids. The Age. [online] Available at https://www.theage.com.au/national/ victoria/principals-sound-the-alarm-on-mental-illness-inprimary-school-kids-20190402-p51a25.html [Accessed 4 Apr. 2019].

1. Strong leadership around making wellbeing a central theme in your school;

Clarke, R. (2019). What do I Say?. SchoolNews, (11), p.10.

2. Have a pastoral care program that incorporates positive education and mindfulness principles e.g.

Rock and Water and Restorative Justice training

Student Wellbeing Hub. (2019). The Australian Student Wellbeing Framework. [online] Available at: https:// www.studentwellbeinghub.edu.au/docs/default-source/ aswf_booklet-pdf.pdf [Accessed 4 Apr. 2019].

Coffs Coast focus 79

Advertisement

VOTE 1

Rob

Oakeshott FEDERAL INDEPENDENT CANDIDATE FOR COWPER

W H Y VO T E F OR M E I am the only candidate in this electorate with a track record of being a Member of Parliament and getting results both as a State and Federal Member of Parliament.

When Port Macquarie was part of my Lyne electorate (electoral boundaries have since been redrawn) I secured critical funding for the Port Macquarie Base Hospital upgrade, Charles Sturt University expansion, four Pacific Highway by-passes, three local airport

upgrades, and grants for many community projects.

I am a long-term resident of the Mid North Coast. I have lived in Port Macquarie for 26 years. I believe in the potential of this beautiful part of the world and I have shown a willingness to work hard and make sure our regions needs are not ignored by Government.

I will connect with the communities in this region and listen to them, rather than bend to a party structure.

W H AT I STA N D F OR BETTER ACCESS TO SERVICES Standing up for regional Australia has been a consistent theme in my political life. I am driven by a belief that we need better access to services like transport, communications, health and education and should not have to accept second best because we are not living in a big city.”

SENSIBLE DECISION MAKING Sensible decision-making seems like such an obvious quality to expect from an MP and yet it is so rarely on offer. I believe in making sound decisions by seeking out and listening to the community and respecting expert advice and then making transparent, evidence-based decisions.

DECENCY Decency is also a quality we see less and less in politics. I have learnt to rise above the insults, name-calling and divisive language we hear too much of right now. I will always speak with decency and, even more importantly, act with decency.

RESPECTFUL COMMUNITIES I believe in treating everyone with respect regardless of their age, background, colour or circumstance. I reject any politics or policies that discriminate against one or more sections of the community.

Join our campaign www.oakeshott.com.au 4/27 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

80 Coffs Coffs Coast focus

@RobOakeshott1

facebook.com/RobOakeshott1

Our Mid North Coast has been neglected for far too long We live in these beautiful north coast river valleys and we all treasure the landscape. But it’s coming under threat as never before – from expanding development, land clearing and climate change. This needs to be a huge priority for us.

The Coffs Pacific Highway bypass should have been finished 30 years ago. Let’s get on with it and get it done.

Regional small businesses deserve to compete on an equal footing with the rest of the world. If given the opportunity, we can lead the world in renewable energy and climate change solutions.

I will ensure our NBN and mobile phone coverage equals the best in Australia so it isn’t an embarrassment that’s holding back our small businesses and frustrating the community.

I will fix high unemployment in Coffs. It isn’t acceptable that we have the second highest youth unemployment in the country. I dealt with a similar problem in Port Macquarie, worked with the community to find solutions and we got results.

I will champion education so that our children and grandchildren can have the option of staying at home and become doctors or plumbers or app designers. And I want to see them bring that talent and training to the kinds of jobs local businesses need filled.

I will make sure we have timely access to desperately needed services. Health, disability, and aged care are crucial for so many of us here on the Mid North Coast. We all deserve to know we can be looked after with care and dignity. We want that for our parents, grandparents, family and friends as well. Government policy that puts people through hoops when they are already under stress is not good for the well-being of our communities.

I’m running to be your Federal MP because I feel strongly that honesty and integrity have gone missing in the way we are being represented. I will be the person whose job is to represent you. I won’t be kowtowing to a party that would rather represent coal mining magnates.”

Authorised by Rob Oakeshott, 4/27 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Rob

Oakeshott

Authorised by Rob Oakeshott, 4/27 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Coff Coffss Coast focus 81

Coffs Coast P R O P E R T Y

G U I D E

Constructions 82 Coffs Coast focus

focusAbode.

Constructions Houston Constructions are renovation and extension specialists, providing the Coffs Coast with reliable and superior quality homes. FOCUS had a chat with owners Luke and Tara Tweddle, to find out more ...

W

hat is the history behind expertise.

Houston Constructions?

The business brings a wealth of knowledge Luke has been in the from both a younger and older generation building game since he was of experienced tradesmen. Regardless if Luke 17. After completing his apprenticeship and is the "Man with the Licence Number", we working the "Subbie" all work together to game for numerous collaborate ideas and get years, he thought the job done. it was time to get What services do serious and complete Houston Constructions WE SPECIALISE IN ANY his Builder's Licence. provide?

FORM OF RENOVATION This opened the door We specialise in any WORK. NO MATTER to the opportunity form of renovation HOW BIG OR of purchasing the work. No matter how SMALL THE JOB, WE locally owned and big or small the job, we ARE ABLE TO PROVIDE A long standing are able to provide a SUPERIOR SERVICE. business “Houston superior service. Houston Constructions” from Constructions has worked Dave and Helen on projects ranging from Houston. With Luke’s building experience and $800 to $800,000.00! The client is the single Tara’s business background, the purchase was most important person in our business. A a no-brainer. happy client is an indicator of a job well done.

Tell us about your team and their area of

Coffs Coast focus 83

focusAbode.

WE HAVE A GREAT RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR GO TO DRAFTSMAN,

Tell us about the comput it back together. It’s mercial side of your simple, clean, and user PAUL ROLLASON, business. friendly.

WHO’S DESIGNS ARE OF Whilst there are the More recently we SUCH A HIGH STANDARD "Commercial Experts" in ventured into the world TO SUIT THE CLIENT, IN Coffs, to be honest we of Facebook for our CONJUNCTION WITH have dabbled in the odd business. We were TODAY’S SOCIETY AND commercial project in our apprehensive at first, DEMANDS. business, and we love as we thought to be a it. The office renovation presence on the “Faceworks we have combook feed", we would pleted tend to add a different dynamic to the have to be on our phones a lot more than we team. We work a lot with ETC and completed already are - which we didn’t want. Thankfully, the office relocation and refurbishment of I dedicate an hour of my time once a month, CHESS Employment. upload data and pre-set timers for when I want Tell us about your new website. new items to appear!

Ha ha … it’s not that new. It is just a conTell us about some of the new, exciting stant work in progress! We "inherited" the projects you are working on now and in site from the previous owners, but it needed the future. some modernising! So, I pulled it apart and We are unable to divulge too much informa-

84 Coffs Coast focus

focusAbode.

Constructions

WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS! tion on what projects we have coming up, but we are about to kick off another big project for the year, that will see us unable to take holidays until at least Christmas! It is a two-storey extension with some really groovy additions that the client wanted. But that is all part of the building renovation game. When it rains, it pours! We love hearing and seeing ideas that clients come up with. We have had some wild ideas presented to us, but nothing that hasn’t been achievable!

What are the stand out features or the

WE LOVE HEARING

benefits of building economically and work AND SEEING IDEAS with Houston Conto a budget, but will not THAT CLIENTS structions? compromise on quality.

COME UP WITH. WE We are renovation and We have gathered a HAVE HAD SOME WILD extension specialists. We team of experienced and IDEAS PRESENTED TO love providing the comdependable contractors US, BUT NOTHING THAT munity with reliable and who are as dedicated HASN’T BEEN ACHIEVABLE! superior homes. When and as committed as people are renovating, of we are. course they want to save How important is susmoney, and we have many areas where we can tainability when building a new home? cut costs, but we never cut corners. We buy Sustainability within a renovation project can

sometimes prove a bit difficult, but we work as best we can to meet the present day economy and environmental performance. We have a great relationship with our go to draftsman, Paul Rollason, whose designs are of such a high standard to suit the client, in conjunction with today’s society and demands. We also have a great support network with local suppliers, who are always offering great advice and new products to suit the every changing sustainable future.

Coffs Coast focus 85

focusAbode.

Constructions

What is the process when a new client walks through the door?

Upon receiving an enquiry, Luke will make an appointment time to suit the client and attend their residence to discuss their needs and thoughts. The project process depends on project size. But in a roundabout way, when a job is "won", we organise the necessary contracts, insurances, council certificates, have another meeting with our client to finalise the nitty gritty and then finalise a start date. Once work starts … it’s go go go until it finishes!

How important is it to support local businesses?

I cannot explain how important it is to support local businesses. This is a small town, word travels, competition can be fierce and if we all work together to support each other, it makes life easier for the future.

What are some challenges that the industry has faced, and how have you overcome these?

86 Coffs Coast focus

Our industry faces many challenges, but nothing that can’t be overcome. The residential and commercial growth Coffs Harbour has seen in the last few years is ridiculous. Things are starting to slow down now, due to economic factors, and hopefully it won’t last too long.

Tell us about your community involvement.

Our whole family are involved in various sports on the Coffs Coast.

Our little boys play soccer and tennis, Luke has been a dedicated member of the Orara Valley Soccer Club and also played basketball on and off since he was 15, and I have been a BJP Physie Girl on and off since I was five, a netballer, and most recently trying out my luck at Mixed Multisports!

What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast?

The weather! The beaches! The mountains!

Our amazing friends and family!

focusAbode.

the Van den berghs

T E S T I M O N I A L We are very happy to have chosen Houston Construction as our builder for the very extensive renovation of our house on Macauleys Headland. They have done a wonderful job. No effort was too much to make it exactly as we wanted it. Also, the whole process was done in an efficient way, and we even stayed within our financial plan. With the help of a good draftsman,

Paul Rollason, Luke and his team realised our dream house, and we saved ourselves the costs of an expensive architect and by doing so, stayed within budget. We are more than happy with the result and can truly recommend Luke and Tara and their team to anyone wanting to build or renovate.

Chris and Lidia Van den bergh - Macauleys Headland Drive, Coffs Harbour.

Ted + Sharon Fawle T E S T I M O N I A L

Luke Tweddle / Houston Constructions came highly recommended as quality builders, and we had to wait over six months to secure his services for our renovation. The wait was worth it. True to his word, and his reputation, Luke and his excellent team of employees and tradies delivered an excellent renovation of the highest quality. Yes, it took longer and cost more, due mainly to our many requests for variations/ addi-

tional work as the project progressed, but Luke was always accommodating, and we are delighted with our superbly finished "reno", that presents better than new. The building project was complemented with outstanding work on major retaining walls, paving and landscaping supplied by SF Landscapes in Sandy Beach. Overall, we couldn’t be happier! Thanks Luke.

Ted & Sharon Fawle, Sapphire Beach.

Coffs Coast focus 87

focusAbode.

Constructions

Jilie + Nev

T E S T I M O N I A L Right from the start, we were impressed with their honesty and integrity, so they designed and built a granny flat to our specific needs.

We were rapt with pricing and quality fittings. We highly recommend Houston Constructions to anyone else wanting to do a granny flat.

Julie & Nev, Moonee Beach.

Stuart Shaw

T E S T I M O N I A L Luke and Tara’s honesty and professionalism all around made working with them and their team a breeze. We were extremely happy with the work we have done and will not only call them for further renovation projects we do, but recommend their services for those considering any form of renovation work, no matter how big or small the job may be.

Stuart Shaw, Coffs Harbour.

the Worboys

T E S T I M O N I A L Michelle and I had Luke and Tara’s team do a complicated renovation to our Sapphire Beach home last year, and we were extremely pleased with the result and the process. Luke’s tradies were excellent, did quality work and were respectful of our home and our space.

Tara kept us up to date with the finances,

and we appreciated her accuracy and great record keeping. Luke was very flexible with our many changes and last minute “adjustments”. Nothing was too much trouble. You can use them with confidence to do a great job at a fair price.

Chris and Michelle Worboys, Sapphire Beach.

Contact Houston Constructions Luke 0418 655 165 I Tara 0402 936 757 I www.houstonconstructions.com.au

88 Coffs Coast focus

focus_tech

focus_archives

WITH GAVIN MORONEY

TECH U P C O M I N G

WITH KEV SMITH

Tech Head

for 2019

2019 is an exciting time for tech, as we look at some of the more interesting and left of centre tech displayed at the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show.

LG SIGNATURE OLED TV R

P

robably one of, if not the coolest, televisions on the planet. I admit walking into a house with a huge TV sitting front and centre in the living room like a black hole makes me cringe a little; I love a good TV, but find them a bit of an eyesore! But, LG has done something completely insane with its first rolling screen ...

Yes, I said a rolling screen! It does this by rolling up like a rug as it slides down into its cabinet.

The engineering in this is a technical marvel, as it’s an OLED panel powered with the most up

to date tech on the market. My first thought was, how did they bend the speakers? But they are actually placed within the cabinet, which left me with my second question; what if you don’t like the aesthetic of the cabinet? Well, I think that’s a future me problem, because if by some miracle I could afford this amazing piece of tech (my guess is a five figure price tag) I’d be buying it just out of cool factor alone! Now, if you’re like me and can’t stand black holes on walls, be sure to check out Samsung’s “The Frame” TV as another alternative.

A

LG HOMEBREW

nother by LG! The Nespresso machine has revolutionised how we drink coffee at home, but what if I was to tell you that someone at LG has run with that idea and added beer? So, just like the Nespresso capsule machine you load your favourite drop, and two weeks later you have five litres of your own home brewed beer. Now, if that’s not good enough for you, this thing actually cleans itself - and anything that cleans itself is something I can get behind!

THE HALO SPORT 2

T

his one had me very intrigued and equally sceptical. Have you ever tried to learn something new, like play an instrument or refine skills in a sport, and you find the learning process longer than you would like? Halo Neuroscience has come up with its second iteration of headphones, which stimulate your neurons through electric pulses to increase the chance of two firing together and creating new pathways in the brain, creating a level of higher learning to improve motor skills.

So, they are saying by wearing these headphones 20 minutes before a task, it stimulates your brain into a hyper learning state. Will this work? Well, I’m not entirely sure, but at the price of “Beats” you are getting a great pair of headphones and the slight possibility of higher learning.

Thirty million years ago, an ancient volcano located just near Dorrigo gave an almighty push from the realms of our great Earth, and because of this we have some great 4wding and destinations to explore on the NSW North Coast.

A

favourite for the locals is the is always after a feed. All this, and only two Nymboi - Binderay National hours west of Coffs.

Park, located 60 km west of For an added adventure, head to Dorrigo Coffs Harbour. This National from Platypus Flats for a drive through Park is full of history, activistunning old growth forests, and along the ties, 4wding and has some way keep an eye out for the old logger trees, great camping options. Although it isn’t where you’ll see the cut outs for their stand4,000 km in the outback, it is a remote area ing boards. with no phone service, very limited traffic, no At the top of the plateau, take a left towards services, all within some deep gorge country. the Norm Jolly Memorial Grove (all sign Nymboi has three camping options. Platypus posted). Here, you’ll be blown away by the Flats is the most popular option with campmonster 800 year old Tallowood trees that ers, day trippers and white water rafters; The are being preserved for the future. An 800 Cod Hole is further downstream, as is The metre walk leads you in and around these Junction, where you need a 4wd to access, magnificent trees, stunning tree ferns and due to the steep terrain. rainforest. It’s a magical area to spend an Campers at Platypus Flats are directed to the hour, where you can have a cuppa and get far end of the camplost with nature. Retrace ing grounds, while your steps back 5 km and day-trippers have their head towards Dorrigo, own area well away. with a pleasant hour There are several clean drive eventually passing For an added adventure, drop toilets here, as through Bostobrick then head to Dorrigo from well as firewood-sawinto North Dorrigo.

Platypus Flats for a drive mill off cuts that are through stunning old growth dumped in a large fire forests, and along the way keep box that is supplied an eye out for the old logger trees,

by National Parks. As where you’ll see the cut outs for long as you pay your their standing boards. fee (National Park Standard $5 per adult, $3 per child), you can have a fire in the designated pits, camp to your heart’s delight and even take to the water if you’re keen.

Fishing is allowed here, but if you target the endangered Eastern Cod and you’re caught, expect a LARGE fine; these fish are protected. Great for canoeing, riding the rapids or just kicking back under the gums and oaks that shade the grassy areas - it’s an amazing place. Free gas BBQs and several tables are provided for all to use, but you must take your rubbish away, as there are no bins; this is a deterrent to the local wildlife, from the pesky resident goannas to the odd crow that Coffs Coast focus 89

focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate update.

Until recently, Australia has held the championship in the fight for the biggest houses in the world. America only in the last few years has taken over the title, in line with their “bigger is better” reputation. Australia’s houses, however, are getting smaller for the first time in nearly 20 years, and it’s part of a broader trend ...

T

his shift is driven by a number choosing location and amenities over house of underlying factors, and and land size, a choice that is being strongly most of these stem from encouraged by all tiers of government. the nation’s changing The average size of a new home fell to 186.3 demographics - particularly square metres in 2017-18. our ageing population.

Australian homes still bigger than most As the population ages, more and more Despite the reduction in home size, Australians Australians are downsizing, and it’s a trend the still enjoy the second largest homes in the government is eager to spur along through world, sitting behind the US’ 202-square-metre incentives such as tax concessions for retirees average and well ahead of New Zealand’s who place the proceeds of downsizing their 172.1 square metres in third. Australia still home into their superannuation. boasts some of the largest homes in the We’ve got an ageing world, despite the population, so we’ve recent reduction. Part of got a natural downsizing the attraction of living taking place. What here from overseas is Part of the attraction we’re seeing is the Baby the fact you have your of living here from Boomers downsizing to own piece of land, and overseas is the fact apartments and villas, in there’s potentially an you have your own particular. environment where piece of land and At the same time, you’re not on top of each there’s potentially an younger Australians other, like you may have environment where are less enthused in Asia and Europe. you’re not on top of each by the white-picket Looking at average other, like you may have fence than previous house sizes around the in Asia and Europe. generations, preferring world, Australian homes to live in smaller are the largest, while apartments nearer to homes in China are the facilities, beaches or smallest. Hong Kong, other amenities that appeal to their lifestyles. which although technically is a part of China, The result is an increased demand for smaller maintains a high degree of autonomy, and has properties. even tinier homes than the average Chinese The proportion of family households has also home. In fact, exactly 22.6 Hong Kong homes been declining. In 2016, families made up could fit into the average Australian residence.

71% of Australia’s households; in 1986 it So whether you’re building, downsizing, was 77%. Over this same period, the number buying, or just curious, what are the most of single-person households increased from important things to consider? Buyers are 19% to 24%. The average number of people becoming more interested in the quality of per household has fallen from 4.5 to 2.6. the inclusions, the overall presentation and Meanwhile, couples are having fewer children, maintenance of the dwelling and how much and more people are choosing not to have the total energy use is. The location of the children at all. Single-parent families have also property has always mattered, but now not increased. just for premium views and swanky suburbs, Buyers at both ends of the market are but for connectivity to facilities.

90 Coffs Coast focus

Coffs Coast focus 83

Call today for an appointme nt 13 28 36

Aged Care has never come with so much Freedom When many people think of aged care they think of a nursing home and living on someone else’s timetable.

But that’s not what you’ll expect after visiting Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour, a welcoming community that gives you the flexibility to do what you want. It’s a genuine alternative to a nursing home.

SEE THE DIFFERENCE

Freedom Aged Care^

Nursing Home

24-hr nurse services – immediate response nurse-call technology

✓

✓

Low, High, Palliative and Dementia Care

✓

✓

Government funding available

✓

✓

Your own self-contained home with kitchen, bathroom, laundry and courtyard/garden

✓

✗

Couples stay together

✓

✗

Family and friends can stay whenever they want

✓

✗

Pets are welcome

✓**

✗

No means-testing or asset-testing required for move-in

✓

✗

We have a range of one bedroom homes available in Coffs Harbour from $229,000-$299,000* Come and see the Freedom difference for yourself. Call 13 28 36 or visit aveo.com.au/freedom *Prices correct as of 9/1/2019. **Subject to management approval. ^This comparison is a guide only and we encourage you to compare for yourself. FRE159-CH

Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour 13 28 36 aveo.com.au/freedom

92 Taloumbi Road, Coffs Harbour