Coffs Coast Focus i110

Barry Hockey

November 2019 issue 110

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Welcome to the November issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS .

aylight Saving is finally here!

Days are getting longer and warmer ... Hooray for spring!

Can you believe that this edition is our second last edition for 2019? What a year it has

been.

We love this time of year. There is so much happening in the community, especially in the lead up to the festive season.

Sam Dawson is getting into the festive spirit early and has already converted our office into what looks like Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. Who else thinks it’s a little too early to be spreading the Christmas cheer? When is the right time, though?

THIS MONTH’S FRONT COVER It’s on again! The world’s fastest rally car drivers return to the Coffs Coast for Kennards Hire Rally Australia on 14th - 17th November - and again one will go home as the 2019 World Champion.

One of the greatest contests in world motorsport will be finalised on the forestry and rural roads of this beautiful region. Organisers and fans are hoping the WRC season finale will go down to the wire, as it did in 2018.

INSIDE THIS EDITION Barry Hockey is known around the Coffs Coast for his successful accounting business, but after-hours he is a muso who loves nothing more than shredding guitar in his band, Car Ramrod.

The recent fire events around the Mid North Coast have put a spotlight on how important our local firefighters are to the community. We had a chat with Nat La Macchia, the Station Officer at Coffs Harbour, about his role and what keeps him motivated to do what he does.

Mardi Davies is an artist, illustrator and writer who has over 20 years’ experience in the graphic design and animation industries, including working on nine films at Disneytoons Australia. She is a published picture book author/illustrator, and

these days she can be found creating beautiful ocean-inspired designs and illustrations for her label Flo + Ebb here on the picturesque Coffs Coast.

Bentley Homes have been building a strong reputation for themselves here on the Coffs Coast - pun intended! We sat down with one half of the Bentley duo, Ashley Trengove, and asked him all about the team, the process and what they love about providing dream homes for the local community.

NEXT MONTH’S EDITION It’s our annual Christmas edition! Be a part of this month’s “Christmas Shop Local” feature and promote spending locally for all your Christmas gifts and celebratory food and drinks. Let’s boost our local retail economy in time for the festive season!

Final Say: “If you don’t like the path you’re walking, start paving another one” - Dolly Parton.

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

75

Issue 110 - November 2019

focusinterviews

6

feature a special

BUY, SELL, BUILD

Barry Hockey.

Barry Hockey is known around the Coffs Coast for his successful accounting business, but after-hours he is a muso who loves nothing more than shredding guitar in his band, Car Ramrod.

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Nat La Macchia.

The recent fire events around the Mid North Coast have put a spotlight on how important our local firefighters are to the community. We had a chat with Nat La Macchia, the Station Officer at Coffs Harbour, about his role and what keeps him motivated to do what he does.

16

Bonnie Hills.

the Usual

Suspects

14. WHAT’S ON for November

Bonnie Hills was born and raised here on the Coffs Coast, and has been surfing the local beaches since she was a little kid. She is a member of Coffs Boardriders Club and has recently competed alongside other club members in the Kirra Junior Teams Challenge.

25. EAT local restaurants 42. SOCIAL SCENE with Carole Beros 51. FROM THE ARCHIVES with Kev Smith 63. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 70. TRAVEL TIME with Kerry Moss

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Mardi Davies.

Mardi Davies is an artist, illustrator and writer who has over 20 years’ experience in the graphic design and animation industries, including working on nine films at Disneytoons Australia. She is a published picture book author/illustrator, and these days she can be found creating beautiful oceaninspired designs and illustrations for her label Flo + Ebb here on the picturesque Coffs Coast.

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71. EDUCATION with Nick Johnstone 72. BUSINESS MINDS with Sam Wardman

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focusinterview.

There’s a lot of love for her music and I feel right at home performing Aretha’s songs.

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BARRY HOCKEY IS KNOWN AROUND THE COFFS COAST FOR HIS SUCCESSFUL ACCOUNTING BUSINESS, BUT AFTER-HOURS HE IS A MUSO WHO LOVES NOTHING MORE THAN SHREDDING GUITAR IN HIS BAND, CAR RAMROD.

H

ey Barry. Tell us how you came enjoy what I do, and I have a great team around me. to be on the Coffs Coast.

We work well together, and the clients pick up on this.

I moved to Coffs in 1993 with I like to think outside of the square, so to speak, to try my family for a new job working to find a solution to every problem. We keep a relaxed with a major bank. My position was attitude at work, and my motto is “never lose your manager for commercial business sense of humour”. I feel if you can help your clients feel in a business banking centre. Our plan was to stay for comfortable, it provides a better working relationship. two years and move on, but the area is such a beautiful You are just about to expand the business and place, we never left. I left the bank in 2001 and decided expand your location. What do you have planned? to go out on my own as a public accountant. As the We have opened a new office next to our existing area grew, so did my client base, and I now have many practice at Suite 1, 29 Orlando Street. The plan is to loyal clients that I enjoy working with. cater for broader financial advice needs such as financial Being well known for your accounting business, planning, protection insurance, retirement planning, some people may not know you’re quite the superannuation and wealth accumulation. rockstar. Where did your Where did the idea come passion for music come from? from?

I have always loved music and I undertook further study by going to see live bands. I played in completing a Diploma of Financial a band in Sydney before moving Planning, as I had an interest in SOMEONE ONCE to Coffs. After arriving in Coffs, I that area. There have also been SAID TO ME MUSIC met many talented musicians and some changes to government IS LIKE MATH; IT’S have enjoyed playing in bands legislation around financial advice ABOUT COUNTING, in Coffs. My latest band is called licensing. During the process, I STRUCTURE AND Car Ramrod, being a line from the met a colleague, Jas Atwal; we PHRASING. IF YOU Super Troopers movie. It’s a threediscussed joining forces, and THINK ABOUT IT, piece band playing mainly covers, here we are today. Jas is a very ACCOUNTING HAS but recently we have written experienced financial CERTAIN STEPS some of our own songs, so watch planner and like me, worked for FROM BEGINNING this space. We all get on well a major bank before starting his TO END, JUST LIKE together and play music for fun. own practice. We have common A SONG. How long have you been goals, so we see this as a good fit playing the axe, and why was for our clients. the guitar the instrument you What will be some of the picked up? benefits for clients, existing and new?

I have played guitar since I was 11 years old. My first We aim to fill the gap in our existing services on inspiration was hearing the guitar solo in the Beatles’ offer. There have been several changes in the industry song Let It Be. After having a few lessons, I was hooked in recent times driven by government legislation on the instrument and have enjoyed playing guitar ever and professional bodies, so we see this as a natural since. There is so much to learn from music. I find it a progression to assist our clients’ overall needs. We will great way to relax, and it also challenges your mind. be able to review their entire financial situation apart Accounting and music may seem worlds apart from tax. I see that tax and financial advice go hand in (unless you’re Elton John’s accountant) but has hand. there been a time where they have connected?

What other plans do you have on the horizon?

Would be interesting being Elton John’s accountant!

Our long-term goal is to build a successful financial Someone once said to me music is like math; it’s about planning practice alongside our existing accounting counting, structure and phrasing. If you think about it, practice. With dual licensing i.e. tax and financial advice, accounting has certain steps from beginning to end, just we aim to give a holistic advice approach and cover like a song. a broader range of issues to assist our clients’ overall Coming from a banking background, you opened financial situation.

Barry Hockey’s Accounting 15 years ago. What We are situated at Suites 1 and 2, 29 Orlando Street, would you say is your secret for a successful Coffs Harbour. Jas can be contacted direct on mobile business?

0478 066 950, or contact Robyn Henman office number I enjoy helping people. So, for me, it’s about providing 5606 1500. a good service and being available for your clients. I Thanks Barry.

Coffs Coast focus 7

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The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter is something most of us have seen or heard about, and it is a vital service for our region and beyond. We got Jennifer Dowd, our area’s Community Liaison Officer, to give us a bit more information on how the service runs and what is involved in making sure it continues to operate and provide such an important and life-saving service.

Jennifer DOWD Westpac Helicopter

H

i Jennifer. Could you tell us a little about your life here on the Coffs Coast?

My husband and I moved to the Coffs Coast from Sydney 17 years ago to set up Amber Tiles, which my husband still proudly owns and runs. My parents, brother and sister were all living here, which is why we decided to move to Coffs.

What is your involvement/role with the Westpac Helicopter?

I started with the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter in June this year as the Community Liaison Officer. As soon as I saw the job advertised, I knew it was exactly the organisation I wanted to work for. I travel between Yamba and Macksville visiting businesses and local community groups, discussing how they can help support this free community life saving service. I also organise local fundraising events.

The Westpac helicopter is free for those who need it. How does it keep running?

It’s the donation support of the community and sponsors that helps ensure the service remains free of charge to every patient we fly. As a local charity, every donation stays in our region and directly benefits the service that is here for our community. We have an annual fundraising goal of $3.5M. How can community members contribute and support the rescue helicopter?

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Donations: every This means we affect THE WESTPAC LIFE SAVER donation big or small is an the lives of over 365 RESCUE HELICOPTER incredible gift. people each year.

PERFORMS ON AVERAGE, Work Place Giving: your From the moment a MORE THAN ONE MISSION workplace is a call for help comes PER DAY ACROSS OUR simple way to give your through, how long NORTHERN NSW REGION. support by starting a does it take the THIS MEANS WE AFFECT payroll deduction through crew to mobilise THE LIVES OF OVER 365 our $2 challenge program. and get airborne?

PEOPLE EACH YEAR. Bequests: remembering The helicopter is your charity of choice via tasked by the Medical your Will is an incredibly Retrieval Unit (MRU) generous way to donate. in Sydney in response to 000 calls, and it takes Helicopter Op Shops: we have op shops in the helicopter approximately 36 minutes to Ballina, Lismore, Tenterfield, Casino, Yamba, get from the Lismore base to the Coffs Coast.

South Grafton and Coffs Harbour operated The helicopter has a maximum speed of 100% by volunteers.

310 km/h, with a cruising speed of Helicopter Events: we hold annual 260 km/h. Coffs Harbour is fortunately able to fundraising events within our community; be serviced in around the same time from the whether it be golf, bowls or a charity walk or Tamworth Rescue Helicopter base if required. paddle, your entry into one of our events can Can you tell us about the crew on board? help save lives.

Who would typically head out on a Rescue Day: held each year on the second rescue?

Friday in August, Rescue Day is our annual The crew includes a Pilot, Aircrew Officer, community appeal day.

NSW Ambulance Paramedic, NSW Health Volunteer: if you have the gift of time and Doctor and depending on the needs of each are looking for a way to support our service, patient, the team may include a specialist why not become a Helicopter Volunteer and nursing professional. The crew are also lend your support. supported by experienced planners and How many rescues a year on average Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. does the Westpac Helicopter perform, What might be an example of the kind of and what kind of services does it offer? situations where the helicopter would be The Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter needed? performs on average more than one mission There are three types of missions the per day across our Northern NSW region. helicopter can be tasked:

Primary - attend accident site, treat and transfer patients to hospital.

Secondary - inter hospital transfers, transferring patients between hospitals for specialist treatment.

Search and Rescue - help to locate missing people, rescue and return to safety.

What sort of equipment and fit out is needed on board to make it most effective in a rescue?

The AW139 helicopter provide advanced medical support allowing for the best possible treatment of patients at the scene prior to transport, and continuing in flight on the way to the most appropriate emergency department. The medical fitout includes: stretchers and trolley, patient lifting device, neonatal unit, blood and blood warmer, advanced diagnostic equipment, haemorrhage control for bleeding, vital signs monitor and defibrillation device, oxygen units, fracture and splinting kits, surgical equipment and ventilator.

What is the best part about your job?

I get to meet lots of different people and businesses up and down the coast. I love the volunteers and community groups for their generous support, happy smiles and great sense of humour. I love the fact that I help contribute back to my local community by helping raise funds to support this life saving service. I also get to sing a lot as I drive up and down the coast!

Thanks Jennifer.

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Ohana’s introducing

n e w s i x H o u r d a y c h i l d c a r e p r o g r a m

WE CAUGHT UP WITH JOANNE FR ANCO FROM OHANA’S SCARBA STREET CENTRE TO TELL US MORE ...

Hi Joanne. Can you tell us what the new Six Hour Day Program is all about?

Yes, it’s a solution we designed because some of our parents who were claiming the maximum fortnightly childcare benefit were constantly asking us why they had to enrol their children for the full 11hour day, instead of just a shorter day.

These parents were eligible to claim the maximum childcare rebate of 36 hours over a two-week period. So instead of using up all that allowance over three days per fortnight, we thought about setting up special six-hour days, which would stretch the maximum cover to six days, between the hours of 9 and 3 daily.

I imagine this gives parents more flexibility?

Yes, for parents in part-time work for example, it gives them more opportunities to claim the maximum childcare rebate for longer, or Maybe even give Mum a special day off once a week to do other things.

That sounds really attractive!

Well yes, considering that our centres are open right through the year, and even on school holidays too. So even if you have other children at school who are home for the holidays, your young ones can still be in childcare.

Are there any age restrictions on the children?

No; in fact, at Ohana we look after children from six weeks to six years old. We aim to provide an environment that feels like a second family. Our programs are split between infant care, early years, and preschool, with our team of specialised educators offering a flexible curriculum to each age group.

And given that a lot of childcare centres tend to shy away from offering infant care because the level of care required is very hands-on and specialised, we are proud of the infant care we provide across all our centres.

I hear you run a special preschool program?

Yes, our focus here is on offering a flexible curriculum based upon the Government’s Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), which is specific to different ability groups, and in readiness for their transition to big school.

We also provide smart boards and iPads in a simulated classroom setting, to help complement their educational development and further enhance communication skills. Our curriculum for preschoolers also includes the ELLA Program, which is digital playbased learning designed to inspire a genuine interest in a new language and culture.

And importantly, parents of preschool age children are eligible to join our new Six Hour Day Program, and maximise the number of days of child care per fortnight. Or for parents needing longer than six hours, talk to our enrolment specialist, as we have a variety of longer sessions that may suit many families.

So, where can parents find out further details about the new Six Hour Day Program?

All they need do is call 1300 956 200, and book a time to come and visit one of our four centres across the Coffs Coast and see for themselves. We are located at North Boambee, Coffs CBD, Emerald Beach and South Grafton.

Thanks for your time today, Joanne.

Coffs Coast focus 9

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the HAPPY FROG and the JETTY MARKETS Kim Towner is a bit of a trail blazer in her business ventures. She takes a unique approach, and it is something that is catching on. She started the Jetty Markets and The Happy Frog and runs them in a way that is environmentally conscious, employs a diverse group of people, and promotes fair trade with local suppliers. Not only that, but she’s created these wonderful spaces where the community can come together and enjoy themselves and what the Coffs Coast has to offer. i Kim. How did you first come to be a business owner here on the Coffs Coast?

This era of my life probably started about 15 years ago. I left a job that I had at Bonville Golf Resort and bought a business that was a little bit under-done, I guess you could say. It did have juices and wraps, but we sort of changed it up a bit and called it Tangelo’s. That was my first foray into that world; I think it was like an amalgamation of stuff that I’d done in my earlier life, which was the dirty barefoot hippy, right through to the corporate thing. I had done all that and then came out into the world interested in running businesses.

Can you tell us a bit more about that journey leading up to taking on your own business?

I got to a point in my life where I decided to go do a welfare course. It was just an introductory welfare course, and in the end I realised I didn't want to go down that road, but I did my major assignment on the correlation between long-term unemployment and low self-esteem. And, I kept thinking of all these people and how we just need to find them a job. That’s something that stayed with me and influenced how I chose to employ people in my future ventures.

I had a job at the time at the Yellow Shed in Bellingen, and the lady who owned it at the time had a bad car accident; she was out of action for about six months, and during that six months I started thinking about how the business worked. I got to meet this lovely accountant, who came from Bowraville with a little cane basket and a calculator; he came every two weeks and I’d chat to him. I asked him what he did, because he seemed to know everything! So, I thought I may as well go and do an Accounting Diploma.

I didn’t love accounting, but I realised that the person who knew accounting knew how the whole business worked.

I actually went into hospitality, and I worked at Boambee Bay Resort and had my own business doing bookkeeping and payroll for cafés and restaurants. Then I worked at Bonville International, and it's just about that time where I think people who were doing the accounts actually started to do HR because they were doing payroll, and I realised that I loved that.

There were times when I thought, “Let’s employ this poor person who hasn’t had a job in ages”, and sometimes it all backfired! So, I learnt how not to do things a little bit; I learnt a lot from those years.

When I finally decided I was going to have my own business, I felt like I used everything from my earlier life. I loved community and local staff and everything, and this little dabble into business with Tangelo’s was right next to the Thursday growers’ markets, so I started to buy stuff from those guys and realised how great that was! This was going

10 Coffs Coast focus

such a leap of faith, because it was 2008/2009 and it was back 15 years or so, it wasn’t so much of a thing buying local back then. different then; the idea was quite different.

We did things like giving you 50c off your coffee if you I started to think this is really cool, because I like these brought your own cup, same with your salad container; 10 people. And then the price of bananas went through the roof, because there was a big cyclone in Queensland, but years ago, people thought that was quite unusual. There because we had a good relationship with the guys we was nothing like that around. bought bananas off, they didn’t really put the price up (they I feel very blessed that those funny ideas came into put it up a little bit, but not a lot). And when the price went my head and that it worked out, but after two years of having the three businesses, it was way too much! We sold down, I wouldn't pay them less. That was one of my first Tangelo’s and just kept the two that we had started from lessons - we’ve got a good relationship; he won't charge me too much. I won't pay him too little. It’s about fairness. scratch.

If I ever write about it one day, I will make a book called You started the Jetty Markets; how did that all come about?

Gentle Profit, because out of everything, the thing that I feel most proud about is that it's After having Tangelo’s for a couple of years and being making a profit - maybe not huge, but it’s making a profit around that growers’ market, I started to think it's such a without being harsh. You don't have cool thing having a local growers’ to do this harsh compromise; you can market, but it's only on a Thursday; maybe we should have a Sunday one. do business in a gentle way.

So, I was down at the beach one I look around at big businesses, I HAD THIS THING THAT I day; I'd been swimming and was and I think we’re punching above NEVER WANT ANYONE TO thinking of how much I’d love a our weight in terms of employing FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE cup of coffee right then. I thought, a diverse workplace, people with THERE - TO HAVE IT LIKE “Wouldn’t it be cool if there was a disabilities, and many different A LITTLE OASIS, SO IT nationalities, and employing a lot of market here that sold coffee, wouldn’t WOULD FEEL NICE TO people per square metre. You know, it be cool if we had a band playing EVERYONE AND THEY over there at the same time, wouldn’t we’re fair about it.

WOULD FEEL LIKE THEY it be cool if you could get a massage And then, to be able to pay fair BELONG THERE. as well and what about if there was prices for stuff, going back to the lovely banana farmer, when they say, all this handmade stuff and art?”...

“How much will you give me?” And and this idea sort of hatched out I'll say, “What do you mean? What’s of that. Then I looked into all the Council stuff. They had just done a community consult about fair and what do you need? Let's do it like that”. It's got to be viable of course, so let's find a place that’s good for the area; I looked it up, and it said you could use it for a commercial enterprise - as long as it was for the benefit of everybody! the community.

We’re always trying to improve, and now our focus is really on being a zero waste business. We do things that are I hatched this plan and took it to the Council. I made without plastic, we do pottery and baskets, things like remember the guy I first approached at the council - it was not Councillor, but someone who worked there - he just had that. a quick look and said that it wouldn’t work! But, I insisted What have you learned from your experiences of that I thought it would and just to give me a go! There was owning and running your three businesses? What no risk to the Council; I made a model that was no risk to advice would you pass on to others? them. I said I would pay them 25% of everything I took, If you want to go into business - imagine it first. Don’t just imagine how it looks, that's part of it, but imagine more and that money went into the Coffs Coast State Park Trust, particularly how it feels - what does it feel like to walk into which manages the land, so it was a win-win for everybody. the space of your business? What does it feel like for your And what about the Happy Frog; tell us about the idea customers when they're there? I didn't realise I was doing for that. it in the beginning, but I was; I had this thing that I never After doing the markets for a couple of years, I thought want anyone to feel uncomfortable there - to have it like maybe people might want this stuff all the time. This was right at the time of the global financial crisis, meat was a little oasis, so it would feel nice to everyone and they would feel like they belong there. I think this was all actually expensive and fuel prices were rising, so I decided I was unconscious. You know, I pinch myself now, I was so lucky going to make a user-friendly vegetarian shop, with all local stuff - that was the vision. Now with Happy Frog we how it turned out. have a lot of local suppliers; that’s one of my passions. It was Thanks Kim.

s t e k r a m e h t g n i After do I s r a e y f o e l p u for a co , l o o c y l l a e r s i thought this ight want maybe people mthe time! this stuff all

Coffs Coast focus 11

focusinterview.

The recent fire events around the Mid North Coast have put a spotlight on how important our local firefighters are to the community. We had a chat with Nat La Macchia, the Station Officer at Coffs Harbour, about his role and what keeps him motivated to do what he does.

nat la machia

H

i Nat. Can you tell us about your history here on the Coffs Coast?

I moved to Sawtell in 1997 with my beautiful wife, who is a local yokel from Sawty; her father used to own the health food store in the main street. She said that it was a great place to bring up kids. Four kids later, I think she’s right! I love surfing, so Sawtell is the perfect spot. I’ve loved the evolution the main street has gone through in the 20 or so years I have been here. Sawtell has become a destination not just for the surf, but also as a foodie hub.

You’re a firefighter here in the Coffs area. Can you tell us when you first got involved with the fire brigade?

I joined the then NSW Fire Brigades in Sydney in 1983, when I was 18 years old. I began my career at Headquarters and did some time at Glebe and Newtown, but always ended up back at Headquarters. I was transferred to Coffs Harbour in 1999 when full-time staff were appointed here as a firefighter. I was promoted to my current role as Station Officer in 2001.

One of the biggest differences I found was that I attended a lot more high speed car and truck accidents in Coffs Harbour, especially on the old highway, than I ever did in Sydney.

12 Coffs Coast focus

What motivated you to become a improve our skills. firefighter?

What is your role within the team?

I like helping people. I remember watching I am a Station Officer, so I am the person the firies doing a demonstration at my school in charge of my station when I’m on duty. I and thinking to myself, “That looks all right”. am responsible for all the firefighters at my One of the things I find confronting being station, the four who are on my shift, plus stationed in my local area is responding to the 20 on call firefighters who are stationed people that I know. I’ve been to quite a few at Coffs Harbour. When I am on duty, I am fires and car accidents the most senior Fire with people I know and Rescue Officer involved. In saying that, in Coffs Harbour, they have been very so I take charge happy that a familiar face of any fires and One of the things I find is there to help them. I hazardous material confronting being stationed in still love going to work incidents in our area my local area is responding to and have a great passion of responsibility. We people that I know. I’ve been to for what I do. also give assistance quite a few fires and car What sort of to other agencies, accidents with people I preparation or training including Police, know involved. In saying that, did you do?

Ambulance, the Rural they have been very happy that a When I went to the Fire Service and the familiar face is there to help them. college, I was trained in SES. all aspects of firefighting, If an incident structure fires and demands a more bushfires. I was trained in senior commander, rescue, where we learnt to extricate people my Inspector responds, who funnily enough out of cars. We are also trained in cordage, was the junior firefighter on my shift when natural disasters (storms and floods), first he was transferred to Coffs Harbour. He aid and hazardous materials (Hazmat). The loves telling me what to do now! equipment and techniques I initially trained I also organise drills, building and hydrant with in 1983 have dramatically changed inspections, fire safety talks for schools and in 2019, so we are constantly drilling to businesses and home fire safety visits. I’ve

got a great crew, who make my job a lot easier.

What sort of conditions make for an eventful fire season?

The conditions that we are experiencing right now - drought conditions, hot weather, low humidity all make up for what is fast becoming a very eventful fire season! We have had strike teams from our area go to Yamba, the Bees Nest fire and Rappville to assist.

What can the community do to minimise risks?

If you live in a bush fire prone area, you can minimise risk by ensuring you have a bush fire survival plan, have adequate clearing which is well maintained between your house and bush, have clean gutters, and a hose which can reach around your house.

If you have a pool, get a SWS (Static Water Supply) sign on your property entrance.

Visit FRNSW or the RFS websites for more information.

How can the community stay up to date with any risks or events in their area?

The community can stay up to date by downloading the Fires Near Me App, visiting Fire & Rescue NSW or the Rural Fire Services websites, or if you’re not tech savvy - by monitoring your local radio station.

Thanks Nat.

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focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

1

N O V E M B E R

2 0 1 9

Stars of Coffs Coast - Dance for Cancer

Twilight Food Markets

A family friendly food only market, diverse in multicultural cuisine and lots of choices for the kids ... Dog friendly too. Bring a blanket or chair, a bottle of wine or beer and kick back and enjoy the entertainment.

When 1st November and each Friday until 24th April.

Where Park Beach Reserve. Time 5pm until 9pm.

Forster-Tuncurry Lakeside Festival

2

It’s all here - everything we love about the Mid North Coast region and more. Featuring headline acts GANGgajang, Round Mountain Girls, Floyd Vincent & The Temple Dogs, The Swamp Stompers and The Big Fins. Enjoy local street food and drinks, art, music and community for a festival not to be missed.

When Saturday, November 2nd from noon.

Where John Wright Park, Tuncurry.

Tickets $25 online or $35 at the gate. www.lakesidefestival.com.au

Six-Week Body Transformation Challenge

We’re giving this challenge away for free to the Coffs Harbour people (usually $300). All we ask in return is a $30 donation to the Buy a Bale charity, to support our local farmers in need.

When 2nd November. Where Brelsford Park.

Time 7am - 8am every Saturday for six weeks.

Info https://anytimebne.lpages.co/6weekchallengech/

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8

A high-profile gala event where we pair local personalities from the community with a professional dance instructor, who will prepare and perform a choreographed routine for judges and an audience at our evening gala event of fun and entertainment.

When 8th November. Time 6pm until 12pm.

Where C.ex Coffs, 2-6 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour Tickets $70 from https://everydayhero.com.au/event/ starsofcoffscoast2019

Blues and Berries Festival

This is our third year, and 2019 is going to be an epic day. Join us for a day of all things Blues music and berries by the beach. We will have our pie eating competition, farm tours to Costa Berries Farm and loads of food and market stalls. Stay tuned, as we announce the music line up! Bring your chair, picnic blanket and sunscreen for an awesome outdoor family friendly event.

When 3rd November. Time 9pm until 6pm.

Where Woolgoolga Beach Reserve, Beach Street, Woolgoolga.

14

Rally Australia

The beautiful Coffs Coast of New South Wales will play host once again to Kennards Hire Rally Australia, the annual Australian leg and the closing round of the 2019 FIA World Rally Championship.

When 14th November - 17th November.

Tickets www.rallyaustralia.com.au

5

2019 Melbourne Cup

Gates open from 11am and general admission is $10 kids get in FREE! We’ll be having a five race TAB meeting, with Park Beach Plaza Fashions on the Field! Gate entry and other donations throughout the day will be made to the wonderful work of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter; plus, there will be a special “red and yellow” themed Fashions on the Field category!

When 5th November. Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club.

Tickets Luncheon and drinks package $109, GA $10, kids are FREE.

24

Festival of Small Halls

Bringing the best folk and contemporary acoustic artists to tiny halls in the spirit of hospitality and great fun.

Features high-energy Australian duo Hat Fitz and Cara along with Blair Dunlop, an award-winning British singer, songwriter and guitarist.

When Sunday 24th November.

Time Doors 6:30pm; 7pm start.

Where Toormina Community Centre.

Tickets Adults: $25, 16 and under: $15.

focusinterview.

Botanica An Evening in the Gardens

Botanica is designed to bring together the creative arts and the community in support of the Heart & Soul Foundation. FOCUS had a chat with Jane Tavener and her team, to find out more …

C

an you briefly describe the event and what we can expect on the night?

As you enter the Botanic Gardens, you’ll be immersed in the atmosphere of roving musicians and arts performers amongst an elegant boho-style picnic set-up. It will showcase a bunch of our own local creative talent, along with various Sydney, Melbourne and Byron Bay artists coming on board for the night. Think summer music festival meets coastal cool! You can sample bushtucker foraged from the gardens by a celebrity chef, or you can explore the market stall lane, craft beer alley and food truck circle. As the sun sets and the beats pick up, the main stage and lawn will transform into a fashion runway, showcasing clothes by regional and local designers for women (and boys and girls!) of all ages. The party will then truly get kicking, with fire dancing, DJs, bands and more.

Who are some of the acts and artists we can

look forward to seeing?

MUSIC Roving performers from The Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium.

Hannah Harlen is a Coffs acoustic singersongwriter who has been featured by triple j Unearthed. She’s a one-woman show with incredible guitar skills and a unique voice.

Prepare to get lost in the music with this gorgeous local act.

Tanuki - home-grown and original music duo with one of Bellingen’s most talented imports and rising jazz singers, Georgie Chorley, whose incredible soulful voice you will have heard featured on the Screenwave International Film Festival trailer, and whose lyrical power will raise the hair on the back of your neck.

Funkatu will finish the night with an all-out dance party! Louey Howell and Funkatu are a local Bellingen Trio who pour funk basslines, howling guitar solos, soulful rhythmic didgeridoo and irresistibly danceable drums. Expect a crazy

fun night to dance your booty off!

We’ve also got local broadcaster and selfconfessed vintage disco, nu-soul, dance-punk and hip-hop nerd Eve Jaremka providing the beats for the fashion show and warming up between dancefloor sessions.

ARTISTS The Botanic Gardens will be transformed into a creative wonderland. Amongst the native trees you will discover atmospheric art installations from some of the most well-known artists in the region, including John Thiering and a surprise guest with a projected sand painting, Gumbaynggirr artists Brentyn Lungan and Alison Williams, Julie Nash and winner of our “budding artists comp”, Lana G Creative - to name a few.

Dance performances from fire wizards Kozmic Fuzion and the Julie Ross Dance Studio.

Designer and illustrator Victoria McGrane of The Scenic Route - a former Emerald Beach local - is responsible for the beautiful Botanica branding. Victoria is a former fashion designer whose clothes featured on international catwalks. Her illustration work features her modern, hand-drawn take on native flowers and local Coffs Coast wildlife, and you will find more of this inspiration throughout Botanica.

Botanica will be held on the 9th November, 5pm until 10pm at the Botanical Gardens.

GA Tickets are $35, FOCUS Birdcage - A VIP Experience $150.

Visit www.eventbrite.com.au for more information or to purchase tickets

Coffs Coast focus 15

focusinterview.

Bonnie Hills was born and raised here on the Coffs Coast, and has been surfing the local beaches since she was a little kid. SHE IS A MEMBER OF COFFS BOARDRIDERS CLUB AND HAS RECENTLY COMPETED ALONGSIDE OTHER CLUB MEMBERS IN THE KIRRA JUNIOR TEAMS CHALLENGE.

Bonnie

H

ey Bonnie. Tell us about your relationship with the Coffs Coast.

I was born in Coffs Harbour, and I have lived on the Coffs Coast all of my life. I love it here. The beaches are pretty special; I feel lucky to have grown up surfing in this area.

You are a local surfer here on the Coffs Coast and a member of Coffs Boardriders. How long have you been surfing, and why did you start competing?

My parents bought me my first surfboard for my ninth birthday, and the rest is history. I’ve been surfing ever since!

You and your team recently headed up north for the Kirra Junior Teams Challenge. Who were your teammates for the event?

My teammates were Bella Morrison, Carly Shanahan, Rosie Smart, Cloe Nolan, Sienna Nielson, Carly White, Ange Keighran and myself.

What is the age range for the junior teams?

The ages for the junior teams ranged from 14 - 18; there was also an open age group who competed up there.

How was the team selected, and what sort of

16 Coffs Coast focus

WE ARE A STRONG CLUB WITH A LOT OF VERY TALENTED SURFERS, SO TO BE SELECTED IN THE TEAM IS AN AWESOME ACHIEVEMENT.

preparations and training did you do for the event?

Our team was selected by our club President and coaching/ mentoring club members. They selected us by our performances during the monthly club rounds.

Every Wednesday after school we would all meet up for training and surf from 4 ‘til dark.

How did the day unfold, and how did each of you go in your individual events?

The event was held over three days. Each day we would all go down to the beach as a team and support each other. If you won your heat, you would be chaired up the beach, and our supporters would sing the Coffs Coast boardriders club song. If you came second, third or fourth, our supporters would form a man made tunnel and the surfer would run through it.

Bella Morrison: 1st; Carly Shanahan: 1st; Rosie Smart: 1st; Cloe Nolan: 2nd; Sienna Nielson: 1st; Carly White: 2nd; Ange Keighran: 3rd; and me: 1st.

What was it like when the results came in and you realised you took out first place?

We were all at the presentation together, and we knew we had a fairly good chance of winning. We were all a bit nervous but when they called out our name as the winners, we were all really stoked.

What do you think it meant to be involved for each of the girls on the team?

For me personally, I was super proud to be a part of such a great team and represent the Coffs Coast Boardriders Club, and all the other girls feel the same.

We are a strong club with a lot of very talented surfers, so to be selected in the team is an awesome achievement.

What does it mean to you to be a part of the team?

It means a lot to be a part of the Coffs Coast Boardriders club and team. Over the last three years we have bonded so much, and we are like sisters.

We are only a young team, but we are improving every day. Last year we came in fourth place, and this year we were able to take out the win. I’m really excited to see what we can all do in the future!

Thanks Bonnie.

COME AND SEE

SUNDAY 17 NOVEMBER

10.30AM

and join in the fun and excitement of the Coffs Coast biggest Christmas Parade TER REGIS OUP GR YOUR TO NOW TE ICIPA PART O NCE T A H C HE FOR T

We invite you to join us at the inaugural 2019 Coffs Community Christmas Parade Sunday 17th November at 10.30am For full information and to view the parade path please visit www.parkbeachplaza.com.au

Feed Sa nta’s LIVE re indeer!

11.3

0am - 2 .00pm outside Ritchies Supa IG A

Coffs Coast focus 17

focusinterview.

Coffs Classi c Cars

We sat down with Coffs Classic Cars member Toby Tyson and HIS MUCH BELOVED MINI COOPER S, TO CHAT ABOUT HIS PASSION FOR CARS and what he loves about being part of the car club.

I TEST DROVE A

ey Toby. Tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast.

My parents moved to the Coffs Coast when I was overseas with the Airforce. It's rather funny, because in 1972 I thought I wouldn’t tell them I was coming home, so I thought I’d surprise them - and they were away on holiday! So, I spent the week here in Coffs in a hotel. After that, I got a job and met my wife, who was a native to Coffs back in ‘72, and the rest is history!

And now you’re the very proud owner of a classic Mini Cooper?

I own a 1969 Morris Cooper S Mark 2, the last one they made.

What drew you to Minis as a car to own?

Before I got posted overseas, I had Minis prior to this one, but not at the top end like this; I had an 850 and a Cooper 998.

When I got posted overseas, I was exempt from a lot of taxes, so I bought an E Type Jaguar which I competed with - even in things I wasn’t supposed to. I was going to bring it home with me, but shortly before I departed another chap who just got posted in asked to buy it. Jokingly I told him 18 Coffs Coast focus

the price I had bought it for two and a half years before, and he said, “I’ll take it”! So, I came home with a pocket full of money and without a Jag. I had to look for something to drive, and being single, I didn’t need many seats. At first, I optimistically test drove a Dino Ferrari, which was 18 grand at the time, but gave myself a slap on the wrist and ended up with the Mini.

As the police were still using them in those days, I had to wait five weeks to get it.

Not to be fooled by size, Mini Coopers are surprisingly fast?

Oh yeah! The Cooper before the Cooper S was the fastest one they had and was used for racing. Back in 1967, I commentated Bathurst for 22GZ and there were five Cooper S’s about 6 inches apart going up the hill climb overtaking the latest raved about Charger - and they left it for dead.

They thrashed them. The Minis have won Bathurst five times before Mustangs and other cars came back in, but my Mini can do just over 180 kilometres an hour, and not many things can catch it ... especially around winding corners. The Mini’s handling is its greatest claim to fame; you can keep the revs up and just go!

You are a member of the Classic Car

DINO FERRARI, Club here in Coffs. authenticity and What's it like to be a the make of the WHICH WAS 18 member of a car club, car.

GRAND AT THE TIME, and what’s involved?

For the past BUT GAVE MYSELF A It's all dependent on few years, C.ex SLAP ON THE WRIST the car club. When I was has played AND ENDED UP searching for a car club, I host to the WITH THE MINI! looked into a few in and Coffs Sports out of the area, and they Touring and were very limited in their Classic Car activities. Then one of my Show. What’s friends mentioned the one I’m in now and the event like for someone who owns I was really impressed, because they are a Classic? made up of members who are extremely The past few years C.ex has hosted passionate and knowledgeable about cars the event, which drew a lot of cars that and they have a lot of activities; for examI hadn't seen before from in and out of ple, Wednesdays are coffee runs, and that the area. I think some of them had been can be anywhere from Grafton, Bellingen sitting in back sheds and have been dusted to Kempsey for an overnight this weekend. off for the event! It’s great for anyone who So, they have things on the membership is a serious enthusiast to just someone that are very good, and they're all a pretty who likes to see really nice cars. It’s not a good bunch of people! There are some bad way for geriatrics to spend their time. members who race, some who have single What’s the maintenance like on a cars, and some who have multiple cars. vintage car; is there a lot of upkeep?

There is a wealth of car knowledge in the Not with a Mini. Getting parts is harder club. as time goes on. If things wear out, you What classifies a car to wear the hishave to order them in from England. The toric plates? thing that actually kills a car is not running The car must be at least 30 years of them; it’s keeping them locked in a shed. age or older. It comes down to its origin, Thanks Toby.

Overseas model with options shown.

Overseas model with options shown.

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Play Play by your rules.

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focusinterview.

Mardi

Mardi Davies is an artist, illustrator and writer who has over 20 years’ experience in the graphic design and animation industries, including working on nine films at Disneytoons Australia. She is a published picture book author/illustrator, and these days she can be found creating beautiful ocean-inspired designs and illustrations for her label Flo + Ebb here on the picturesque Coffs Coast.

20 Coffs Coast focus

H

ey Mardi. Tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast?

I grew up spending school holidays with

Where did your love of illustration and design begin?

I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t drawing. I come from a long line of artists, musicians, poets and writers, so I guess it was ingrained early my family at my on that creativity is a grandparents’ house place to find yourself at Sawtell. Towards the and find your peace. end of high school, My mum is always I don’t remember a time when I my family relocated making something and wasn’t drawing. I come from a long line of artists, to the Coffs Coast has always encouraged musicians, poets and from Cronulla (up the me to pursue drawing, writers, so I guess it was Sharkies!) Although as did my late great ingrained early on that I spent a lot of time uncle, who bought me creativity is a place to find yourself travelling and living Drawing for boys on and find your peace. in Sydney, in between my 7th birthday. He adventures I always was way ahead of his came home. The time, declaring, “Why beautiful beaches, shouldn’t you draw cars rivers, rainforest and lifestyle remained in and machinery? Don’t let anyone tell you my heart. I ended up settling here for good that you can’t do something because you in 2007, meeting the love of my life, and are a girl!” So from then on, I drew anything having our beautiful daughter - who now and everything. gets to grow up canoeing in the same river You work in a range of different and playing at the same beach I used to mediums in your illustration and graphic when I was her age. design work. Which is your favourite to

focusinterview.

Picture books are a child’s introduction to literature and art. They raise questions,

work in and why?

I would have to say pencil sketching is my favourite. It is as natural as breathing to me; I go into the zone when I sketch and get surprised by gaps in time when I eventually look up.

You have worked with big names like Disney, for example. How was it working for such a well known company?

It was both inspirational and humbling to be surrounded every day by so many talented artists. We had access to a wealth of knowledge in the Sydney studio from weekly life drawing lessons, sketching trips to Taronga Zoo and live talks from some of the world’s top animation artists. I was lucky enough to work on nine films, like Lilo and Stitch 2, Lion King 1½, and Peter Pan Return to Neverland, before the studio closed in 2006.

You have published the illustrated book Found You! What was the process from start to finish when writing and illustrating this work?

The story came first. I wrote the manuscript and had a professional manuscript assessment with Writers NSW. The assessor liked the story and put me in touch with my publisher, Ford St Publishing (in Melbourne). I had an editor who guided me through the process of creating a

they can make you dummy (rough sketch laugh, and no matter of the whole book) and what had gone on during once that was approved the day, or how tired I was, - I set to work drawing sharing a picture book before and painting every night bed connected us somehow. after my daughter went to bed for about six months.

The ocean reboots Where did the idea to my soul and connects me to life energy. The write the book come from, and why was idea that there is a whole universe going it important to you? on under the surface that we can’t see All the art I make is storytelling in one fills me with wonder. I love watching the way or another. The story came to me when sunlight sparkle on the water. I love when I was a new mum. Although the idea of the conditions are just right and every wave picture book illustration had been floating makes a rainbow. I love seeing surfers sitting around with me for a while, it wasn’t until I out the back silhouetted against the sky. had to read them over and over again every I love that the ocean is full of surprises, night that I felt their true power. and you never know what you are going to Picture books are a child’s introduction to get. literature and art. They raise questions, they I have always been obsessed with can make you laugh, and no matter what dolphins, whales and turtles. I worked for had gone on during the day, or how tired Dolphin Marine Conservation Park when I was, sharing a picture book before bed I first moved back to the Coffs Coast as connected us somehow. It was important a photographer and fell in love with sea to me to be a part of that space between lions and penguins too. I have done some a child, the reader and a book. I am so freelance design work for Dolphin Marine honoured to have had the chance to be that Rescue, and I am inspired by their dedication for other people, and I have made lifelong to rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing friends in the “kidlit” industry. marine animals - especially sea turtles.

Your artwork is heavily influenced by My daughter is involved in their amazing the ocean; why does this play such a big eco groms program, so I guess my art is part in your work? influenced by my love of marine creatures

and my surroundings here on the Coffs Coast.

The culmination of all of this is my latest range of illustration, graphic design and surface pattern design - Flo + Ebb by Mardi Davies. Flo + Ebb is 100% ocean inspired, mixing traditional illustration with digital mediums to create patterns printed on organic fabrics that I am using to produce eco friendly products.

Where else do you draw inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from an eclectic range of sources, including but not limited to - dreams, intricate details in nature, stories, trying to dance like Beyoncé (ha! I wish), meditation, the muppets, things that make me laugh so hard I cry, travelling, great art, surprises, successful people, a great song, my dog, interesting animation, kindness, and of course, my family and friends.

Thanks so much for having me, FOCUS. @flo_ebb_art abitsketchyart.myportfolio.com/ Thanks Mardi.

Coffs Coast focus 21

focusinterview

with Sophie Bird of Tallow and Tide

MADDY WILSON Z O M B I E

J U N K

Triple threat Maddy Wilson is an artist, designer and printer with a passion for the creative scene. She painted a mural on my store recently, so naturally, I wanted to know more ...

M

addy! Give me a ... two sentence hot take on who you are. Who is Maddy Wilson?

I guess I would consider myself a quirky, loud, and passionate 24-year-old with an obsession for art, music and all things creative. I drive a 1971 VW Beetle, daylight as a barista, moonlight as a designer and can’t stop

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buying houseplants.

Zombie Junk is a rad name! When did you launch ZJ, and what do you do within the brand? I know it’s quite multifaceted.

Zombie Junk started out four years ago. It’s hard to pinpoint the exact moment it began; it has grown into a lot of things. The very first shirt was made when I severely injured my foot at a friend’s gig. For the next few weeks I was

hobbling around on crutches and couldn’t really do much, so I created!

I’ve always struggled with finding clothing I’ve felt comfortable in. Most female clothing is traditionally feminine, and I usually tend to shop in the men’s section. Having always been a bit of an artist, I decided to make myself a few shirts, so I grabbed a can of spray paint and cut a really dodgy stencil - and the first ZJ shirt was born.

Since then, I’ve taught myself to screen print, completed my graphic design course and have turned the brand into an umbrella for custom printing, design and its own label.

You’re doing a custom run of shirts for Tallow & Tide this summer. Do you do this a lot? Or, are you branching out more into business work?

Yes! I have worked with a diverse range of businesses in the past - definitely a lot more recently since the move back to Coffs. I love doing them! I take a lot of pride in my shirts; I hand print every single one. They are all unique.

Being able to give that to other businesses, artists and brands whose only other option would be large runs of machine printed clothing is really important to me. I’m all about supporting the local scene.

Who is the quintessential ZJ customer? And who’s one famous person you’d have a full “break out sweat in excitement” if they wore your designs?

Both of these are so hard to answer. As a brand, you always have to find a target market.

But, I also want the brand to be for everyone. I think it’s made for people who really care about

what they spend their money on, people who want a product they know has had someone’s heart and soul poured into it and isn’t just another sale for some massive company. As far as the designs go ... well, they vary so much, it’s hard to pick the kind of person they are aimed at! A lot of my stuff is supportive of the LGBTQ community though. That’s something I care about a lot.

As for the famous person ... It would have to be between Halsey, Lynn Gunn or my all time fave, Hayley Williams.

We all know I love a business with a good heart and soul. What are your business values?

I just think passion is key. I love doing this and I think that’s the most important thing of all.

LOVE WHAT YOU DO! I want to have enough of a platform to help promote and support other small businesses. Don’t see them as competitors.

Help each other out. I never went into this thinking about what I would do if it failed. I just do it because I love it and if it makes a least one other person feel good about themselves when they wear it, then I’ve succeeded.

Where can people buy, try and love ZJ? Zombie Junk is currently available in Newcastle at The Neighbourhood Barber and in Maitland at The Cabin Collective. Everything else is all online at www.zombiejunk.com.au - however, we are popping up in a store in Coffs soon, so make sure you follow us on Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date (sneaky sneaky!) For custom printing jobs for any kind of business, get in contact via our website.

Love & Kisses Monday, October 28 is the day! Love & Kisses has a reputation far and wide for their special Christmas decoration, and this is the day they’ll all be out on the shelves. Judy says many customers buy one special decoration each year for each grandchild. They also make a lovely and unusual teacher gift ... and do ask if you need something different for music or ballet teachers too.

Top sellers right now are: *Made-in-Australia microfibre tea towels $23.95 (amazing to use). *Made-in-Australia unisex Australian cotton socks $14.95 (most comfortable on the planet). *And lots of other made-in-Australia items perfect for posting overseas. *Leather wallets - both men’s and ladies. *Keep Cutlery. *Handmade rings and earrings from Christophe Poly, Canada. *Monet and Van Gogh glasses cases from France. *Elf On The Shelf boxed set $53.95. Letters to Santa boxed set $39.95.

And due in this week: new anti-theft travel handbags. Gorgeous new handmade jewellery from Orieult of Paris. New Dinosaur and Fairy items. Lots of other things Judy forgot she’d ordered!

Be organised early this year - write your Christmas list and call in and check out this lovely little shop this week. You’ll be so glad you did.

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Bush spiced fried chicken, apple and radish slaw, bacon jam from Ernies Kitchen.

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S

Danielle Wallce, Owner of Sunset Room Woopi

unset Room Woopis has quickly established itself as one of the region’s foremost restaurants, and Elio Nigrelli is the renowned chef at the helm. Elio hails from a seasoned career that has taken him from Cefalu, Sicily in spectacular Southern Italy, to being a central figure in Sydney’s Italian food scene and now to Woopi, where he has made a home and shares his culinary talents with all at Woolgoolga’s latest colourful hotspot, Sunset Room Woopi - an Italian restaurant and aperitivo bar.

The elegant Elio, who shares an uncanny resemblance to Giorgio Armani, started his career in Italy, owning restaurants and nightclubs in Sicily. He studied law, but found his passion for food, bright lights, people and the dolce vita of the hospitality industry so enticing.

As legend has it, at his seaside restaurant in Cefalu, a waiter came to Elio and said, “The most beautiful Australian girls are dining with us; come out and meet them, chef!” The rest, they say, is history; he married the beautiful Australian model, had a son, Giancarlo, and that started his adventure to Australia.

On arrival, Elio immediately fell in love with Australia. He bought the legendary Sydney restaurant Eliza’s, Double Bay, which was the most famous restaurant back in the day, and Sydney fell in love with Elio’s cooking and hospitality. He has wined and dined and played host to the rich and famous at his various Sydney restaurants.

“Elio has had a forty year working life as a chef and restaurateur, a wealth of travel, and a colourful life,” says Danielle, the owner of Sunset Room. She likens him to the Silver Spoon being brought to life (the book often referred to 26 Coffs Coast focus

as the bible of Italian cooking).

“I love to watch him at work, the elegance of his cooking, even just seasoning a dish - it is poetry in motion. Often I’m in wonder at the simplicity; Elio makes magic happen. I feel truly blessed that serendipity has brought Elio to Woopi and Sunset Room - he is the maestro!

I’m very grateful and I think to myself, lucky Woopi!”

Elio is the classic Italian chef, and with Elio’s Sicilian background, the traditional menu takes both European and Mediterranean inspiration.

The seasons are everything in Italian cooking; simplicity, celebrating the ingredients and great produce is the key.

“At Sunset Room Woopi, we know exactly where our produce is from, food provenance is very important to us, and we take advantage of the abundance of locally grown produce. There is an emphasis on fresh local seafood. On any given night you might find Bangalow Pork Belly, Casino rump, or a locally caught Black Snapper, or Coffs Harbour prawn and zucchini pasta, our famous fritto misto, and our famous seafood risotto is beyond fantastic. By the way; we also do fantastic Italian pizza.”

Elio is still intrinsically very Italian, often seen travelling around Woopi on his Vespa or in his fiat - he’s a little bit of Italy in Woopi. He and his wife, Diedre usually take an annual pilgrimage home to Sicily to see family and friends, forever finding inspiration.

“You can the joy and twinkle in his eye at his creations and sharing that; we are now looking forward to his upcoming summer menu!”

Sunset Room Woopi opens from 4:30pm for aperitivo until late.

1/4 Market Street, Woolgoolga Ph: (02) 6654 0715.

Coffs Harbour’s favourite steakhouse kitchen is back with a refreshed coastal feel, revamped menu and view!

Ribeye Rooftop Bar & Kitchen is an 18+ outlet

PAPAVEROS ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY FOR LUNCH AND DINNER AND SATURDAY FOR DINNER CHECK WEBSITE FOR DETAILS OR CONTACT THE CLUB TO RESERVE YOUR TABLE ON 6652 3888

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HUMANS of Coffs Coast Amy

SJhOHeNrSTrONi

ELPHICK

Q Who are you listening to on Spotify?

A Winston Surfshirt.

JPEeAsKsE

Hidzir MOHD

Q What’s your favourite restaurant in town?

A Lime Mexican in Sawtell.

RiEzNzTaIZA

GE M

Q What’s your favourite thing about Coffs Harbour?

A It’s a quiet coastal town.

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Q Where is your favourite place to relax on the coast?

A The Jetty, because of the chilled atmosphere!

Q What’s the secret to a good coffee?

A Being passionate, knowledge and lots and lots of practice.

BEeRnSON

GR I

Q What is your favourite thing to do on the Coffs Coast on the weekend?

A Going camping with my friends.

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THE COFFS COAST GIG GUIDE

FFS COAST

2

NO VEM BER

01 9

TH

E

CO

1ST NOVEMBER

TGIF with Rjay and Bisho - Coast Hotel

Halloween Kick Ons (Zombie Dress Up) Winkxx Night Spot

Badrapper ft KYB - Winkxx Night Spot

Adult Halloween night with live DJ - The Coramba Hotel

Saije - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

Josh Matheson 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

Johnny Cash Tribute - Sawtell RSL

Calum Foulis - Element Bar

Siren - Flakey in liquid bar - Coast Hotel

Ryan Brooker - Element Bar

Chris Grieve - Sawtell RSL

17TH NOVEMBER

TGIF with DJ Breno and Bisho - Coast Hotel

Katie Brookes - The Coramba Hotel

2ND NOVEMBER DJ AK - Winkxx Night Spot

Billie-Jo Porter 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Billie-Jo Porter - Element Bar

Rachel Laing - 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

20TH NOVEMBER

Tim Richards - Element Bar

Josh Matheson - Element Bar

Halloween Party with Indigo Starlight and Rjay + Occarock - Coast Hotel

Cocktails Crafts and acoustics with Owen Shannon - Coast Hotel

3RD NOVEMBER

21ST NOVEMBER

The D’Boyzos from 2pm - The Coramba Hotel

Sunday Lemonade - Element Bar

Mischa Tanashevich 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

80’s Mania - C.ex Coffs Harbour

Ryan Parsons - Element Bar

Sunday Lemonade 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

Cactus Jack - Sawtell RSL

Calum Foulis - Element Bar

6TH NOVEMBER

22ND NOVEMBER

Sydney Comedy Festival - C.ex Coffs Harbour

Kailey Pallas - Element Bar

Rod Dowsett - Sawtell RSL

Cocktails Crafts and acoustics with Chris Grieve - Coast Hotel

TGIF with Flakey and Rjay - Coast Hotel

7TH NOVEMBER Akova - Element Bar

8TH NOVEMBER Chris Grieve - Element Bar TGIF with Jimmy Laing and Bisho - Coast Hotel

9TH NOVEMBER

23RD NOVEMBER Kaitlyn - Ladies Night - Winkxx Night Spot Calum Foulis 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Benny Black - Element Bar The Lyrical with Skoney in liquid bar - Coast Hotel

24TH NOVEMBER

BOTANICA: An Evening in the Gardens Botanic Garden Coffs Harbour

Old School Rock ’n’ Roll from 2pm - The Coramba Hotel

Tony Harvey & Thunderbox- J-Stainz in liquid bar - Coast Hotel

Billie-Jo Porter 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

Calum Foulis 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Benny Black - Element Bar

10TH NOVEMBER The All Sawts from 2pm - The Coramba Hotel

Graham Moes - Element Bar Jayne Henry - Sawtell RSL

27TH NOVEMBER Kailey Pallas - Element Bar

Josh Matheson 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

Cocktails Crafts and acoustics with Josh matheson - Coast Hotel

Josh Matheson - Element Bar

28TH NOVEMBER

Paul Mulqueen - Sawtell RSL

13TH NOVEMBER Peter Barry - Element Bar Cocktails Crafts and acoustics with Jacob murray - Coast Hotel

14TH NOVEMBER Vena Klymo - Element Bar

Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar

29TH NOVEMBER Mischa Tanashevich 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar Josh Matheson - Element Bar TGIF with Rjay and Bisho - Coast Hotel

30TH NOVEMBER

15TH NOVEMBER

LOCK DOWN - Winkxx Night Spot

The Slammers - The Coramba Hotel

Chris Grieve 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

Vena Klymo 7pm - Dark Arts Brew & Bar

Ryan Brooker - Element Bar

Calum Foulis - Element Bar

Andy jans brown and cosmic - J-Stainz in liquid bar - Coast Hotel

Rowland & Shekynah - Element Bar 30 Coffs Coast focus

16TH NOVEMBER

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focusinterview.

Neville

MOTT

of The

Peach MaKo If the thought of warm spring days, cool breezes and the delicious taste of peaches, cream and coconut excites you, then this brand new cocktail from the crew at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip will have your mouth absolutely watering. With its perfect blend of fresh puréed peaches, peach liqueur, cream vodka, coconut rum and nutmeg, the Peach MaKo is an absolute spring gem and will have you begging for more!

with Madonna Bannerman from Two Tails Wines

H

i Neville. Thanks so much for taking the time to talk to us. How has the industry changed since you first started as a chef?

The industry has changed with the younger generation coming through, especially when it comes to training. Our apprenticeship was four years, whereas now training might only take two or two and a half years and with a lot of on site training. I always like to encourage the younger generation to travel and work abroad once they have finished their training, to truly appreciate how good our trade is and to experience different cultures.

Toormina Hotel has just got their hands on a brand new smoker. What changes can we expect to see to the menu?

With the smoker now we are doing wings, brisket, pork butts and everyone’s favourite - ribs! But, we are constantly experimenting with new flavours and cooking techniques. As a team we are really looking forward to see how our customers welcome the new direction regarding the menu.

When it comes to creating a new seasonal menu, what do you have to take into consideration?

It depends on what is actually in season and how long is left in the season. Right now being spring, we tend to use a lot of lamb 32 Coffs Coast focus

wine month of the

from Cowra, peas and carrots, but we are always looking for new ideas for the upcoming season. This summer should be fun, fresh and fast!

What would you say is your biggest influence when it comes to your cooking?

Definitely my upbringing in Griffith, as well as my family, especially my Nanna, Nonna and Zia. I also have to give credit to the chefs I have previously worked with over the years and of course, the team I work with now.

What local produce features on the menu for the Toormina Hotel?

I currently use Bakers Delight and The Chicken Butchery both in Toormina, Aussie Fresh Seafood Woolgoolga, Great Ocean, Fresh Bellingen Pasta, and my Zia’s gnocchi, which she makes with love and care (and is very popular with our locals). Also, Coastal Plateau and Tutti Frutti.

When it comes to special events and functions, like upcoming Christmas parties, what range of food and services do you offer?

We have a great selection of function food.

We cater for kids, which is very popular at the Toormina Hotel. Cheese platters, antipasto, canapés and share platters which you can see on our website site, or speak to our wonderful function manager, Lagna Hurley.

Neville Mott, Head Chef, Toormina Hotel.

CHOCOLATE CHILLI VELVET

If you like Chocolate and Chilli, this is for you! Grown and sold at our award winning Cellar door, Two Tails Winery at Nana Glen ...

T

his wine demonstrates a blend of Jacquez (Le Noir) grapes grown at the vineyard, and displays both varietal styles to perfection.

With the combination of distinctive dark colouring, herbaceous aromas and black cherry, chocolate and chilli flavours, to the lush fruit sweetness of the Jacquez grapes, “Chocolate Chill Velvet” was created.

Perfect for drinking straight, on the rocks, warm up for a coffee/hot chocolate or your favourite cocktail or dessert.

CHARACTERISTICS: This wine presents deep red colours with berry driven aromas.

Ripe and lush, this wine is bursting with black cherry and chocolate and chilli flavours - with a hit of chilli and a smooth chocolate finish. Low in tannin, with a hint of oak.

GOES WITH: A match made in heaven with dark chocolate or a rich dessert.

COST: $50.

AVAILABLE: Two Tails Winery Cellar Door, 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen NSW. Phone: (02) 6654 3633.

Email: admin@twotailswines.com.au

focuscontributor with Rebecca Platts

AMY SHARK

I

had the pleasure of being invited along to see the powerhouse that is Amy Shark live at the C.ex on Thursday 17th October. The show was a massive success, being one of the many sold out locations across the country! Performing her critically acclaimed debut album Love Monster and faves from her EP Night Thinker, Amy was confident and electric up on stage, giving Coffs Harbour a really one of a kind experience. Dressed in her trademark Adidas windbreaker and hair done in the top bun that has become an Amy Shark staple, which was easily recognisable, as there were more than a few fans sporting their own! Amy was chatty with the crowd, sharing stories from interviews in Zurich to writing

songs about ex-boyfriends. She brought an energy to the stage that left everyone wanting more. From the stripped down solo of Leave us Alone to Amy rapping the Cardi B solo in Girls Like You, the show was extraordinary from start to finish. After speaking to some of the concert-goers, it was easy to see that it was a night that won’t be forgotten any time soon.

Opening up for Amy was Perth Indie Punk Band Sly Withers and Indie Pop Star Eleanor Jacks, both triple j favourites. You’ll be able to catch Sly Withers at this year’s upcoming Falls Festival at the Fremantle Show. Eleanor Jacks’ new single, Blue is available on Spotify; she will also be supporting LÉON on her Australian and New Zealand tour.

Amy, Jacob, Steph and James

Tori, Courtney, Clair, Sarah, Karla & Donnna

Rachelle, Franchesca & Annie

Tahlia & Dan

FRENCHY - TURN IT UP!

W Joel & Hollie

Hayley, Allister & Georgia

Carla, Chris, Ty, Louise, Gillian, Brooke, Daley & Steve

Scott, Jimmy, Nicola & Matthew

here do I start with Frenchy? Saturday night at the Sawtell RSL was one of those nights that you just had to experience for yourself. Having never been to a Frenchy show before, I had no idea what to expect, and he did not disappoint! Currently on his national tour, Frenchy brought his raw and jaw dropping jokes to Coffs Harbour. Having originally come from Wollongong, Frenchy made his start from making fun of his home town in a YouTube video, that tongue in cheek comedy was on show the whole night. Having to fight off hecklers during the show, Frenchy

was at ease on stage and seemed to welcome the swearing and jokes from the crowd - even after one patron was ejected from the show!

Boasting more than half a million subscribers on YouTube and over 250k followers on Instagram, Frenchy’s cult followers can’t be ignored with their passion for his comedy and penchant for a mullet.

Not shy on the guitar, he sang some of his original songs poking fun at Apple watches and some rather unorthodox ballads. But for those who might be a touch on the conservative side, be warned; this show is not for the faint of heart!

It’s Showtime at C.ex Coffs

THURSDAY 21 NOVEMBER 8PM Presale $69 | Door $79 | VIP $169 Includes hit bands from the 80s - Cutting Crew, Pseudo Echo, Wang Chung, Flock of Seagulls and Go West Buy your show tickets online at cex.com.au or at the box office at C.ex Coffs.

18+ event Coffs Coast focus 33

focusinterview.

Christine Anu

REWIND – The Aretha Franklin Songbook

AUSTRALIA’S ICONIC INDIGENOUS ENTERTAINER CHRISTINE ANU IS RETURNING TO STAGES NATIONWIDE TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LEGENDARY SOUL DIVA ARETHA FRANKLIN IN HER HUGELY SUCCESSFUL SHOW, REWIND - THE ARETHA FRANKLIN SONGBOOK.

Angel, Today I Sing The Blues and many more unforgettable classics. I will also sing songs from my own back catalogue of hits, including the iconic My Island Home and Sunshine On A Rainy Day. I’m thrilled to be bringing my REWIND - The Aretha Franklin Songbook show to Coffs Harbour. I grew up listening to Aretha.

She is one of my greatest influences and an idol. I believe she is the greatest soul singer of our time, and I’m truly grateful to have the opportunity to pay tribute to this wonderful woman in this way.

You must have an amazing band coming with you. Tell us about that.

On this occasion I’ve downsized to just piano, one n this must-see show, Christine delivers a pasbacking vocalist and myself! sionate and energetic performance to pay tribAs an encore tour - will it differ from the first? ute to her idol, the Queen of Soul, who passed It’s hard to imagine how you perform songs on just away on the 16th August 2018. piano; what happens with the horn section in songs First of all, congratulations on your encore like Respect? But, we make it work! It just means tour. I bet you’re excited to be heading out there’s nowhere to run and hide; it’s a warts and all, around Australia again? baby!

Thank you. It’s always fantastic performing Aretha’s Tell us about some of your accolades. classics to audiences everywhere ... There’s a lot of I have taken home five ARIAs, eight Deadlys, a Green love for her music and I feel right at Room Award for Best Actress in home performing Aretha’s songs. a Musical and I won Song of the There are so many amazing Year for my chart-topping hit, My female vocalists to admire.

Island Home. I also had gold and What is it about Aretha Franklin platinum albums and was recently REWIND - THE ARETHA that inspired you to perform her the first recipient of the AusFRANKLIN SONGBOOK WAS songs on stage? tralian Songwriters Association INITIALLY PERFORMED IN I grew up listening to Aretha and I inaugural Lifetime Achievement 2012 TO COINCIDE WITH love her songs, but mostly her vocal Award for my contribution to ARETHA’S 70TH BIRTHDAY style, reconciling her gospel roots Australian First Nations music. I AND THE RELEASE OF with just about any other genre appeared in Baz Luhrmann’s MY ALBUM OF THE SAME and doing it superbly ... immersing Moulin Rouge, as well as in The TITLE ... myself in Aretha’s music was a masMatrix Reloaded, Dating the ter class in itself. Her phrasing, the Enemy and most recently, in the space she uses to emote the lyrics, Australian film UNSOUND. I also her vocal range and more. I had roles in a number of TV series, wanted to learn more about my including Wildside, The Alice, voice through singing Aretha’s songs.

Playschool, Outland, Black Comedy, Kiki and Kitty and REWIND - The Aretha Franklin Songbook was initially many more. Currently, I am also the host of the performed in 2012 to coincide withAretha’s 70th national radio show, Evenings across Australia, on birthday and the release of my album of the same title. Friday and Saturday nights on ABC Radio.

The show has been brought back in 2019 after popular With a career spanning more than two decades, demand and a number of sold out performances. what has been your most memorable highlight?

To add to this, I have just wrapped-up my two and a I loved being asked to perform for Nelson Mandela half year tour of my In Conversation and Song show, and performing at the closing ceremony of the Sydney which I performed to approximately 45,000 people in Olympic Games. intimate settings at theatres, galleries, festivals and What’s next for you in 2020? schools.

I am working on a couple of albums, there are a What can we expect from the show? couple of TV appearances, a movie and radio During the show, I will sing Aretha’s most memorapresenting. ble and powerful tunes, including (You Make Me Feel Thanks Christine.

Like) A Natural Woman, Bridge Over Troubled Water,

I

christine anu

You can catch Christine Anu on Saturday 2nd November at the Jetty Theatre.

Tickets available from www.jettytheatre.com.au

34 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

There’s a lot of love for her music and I feel right at home performing Aretha’s songs.

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focusinterview.

Prepare yourself for an entertaining and FUN-FILLED PERFORMANCE OF “GREASE - THE MUSICAL”, FEATURING THE TALENTED PERFORMERS AND MUSICIANS FROM BDC. FOCUS had a chat with Katie Gudgeon and Rachel Crismale, to find out more …

W

hat will this production bring to the Coffs Coast?

Fun! Energy!

Entertainment!

What we love about this production is that it has ultimately been student-driven. They’ve been involved in the set design, costume design, sound, lighting, orchestration and of course - our on-stage cast. It has been extremely refreshing to see our students that have different strengths in different areas come together and work tirelessly to make something that they and we are so proud of and are ready to share with the wider community.

What made you choose Grease?

Well, it might be over forty years since Grease hit the big screen, but we were drawn to its timelessness. We figured that the antics of our favourite seniors from Rydell High would be just as entertaining for the 36 Coffs Coast focus

newbies as they are for the die-hard fans.

The students were so Our desire to create large-scale excited when they heard opportunities for our students we were considering of the theatre and the and our love of the theatre staging Grease - The magic that it can create and the magic that it can Musical. It was such an kept us motivated. create kept us motivated. easy choice for us.

Numerous rehearsals Numerous rehearsals What has the and extra hours put in and extra hours put in preparation been like by all involved have led by all involved have led to in the lead up to the to a production that a production that our students performances? our students should be should be proud of.

The style of proud of. production, being Can you tell us a little a musical, can’t be about the students in underestimated. With the show? so many elements involved, including sets, For a production of this size, we were costumes, wigs, lights, sound, choreography, excited by the opportunity to open the door special effects, orchestra, promotion, and to students across our entire secondary of course casting and performance needs; campus. Students involved come from a it’s fair to say - we’ve been pretty busy! huge variety of interests and skill sets, as well However, our desire to create large-scale as year groups. In fact, for many of them, opportunities for our students and our love this is their first time on stage or performing

in front of others. There were many moments during the audition phase where we were completely and utterly amazed by the hidden talent that we may never have known, except for this opportunity. There are also many students involved behind the scenes, whether it be designing and creating sets and props or upskilling or with makeup and costume design. Overall - it has provided opportunities for our students across the board, whether they be on stage or off stage.

Is there anything extra we should know?

Everyone is welcome to come and be entertained! Ticket prices include a fulllength feature show, as well as three complimentary tickets to our very own “SideShow Alley”, where you can experience the fun and games of an interactive carnival

focusinterview.

Ticket prices include a fulllength feature show, as well as

atmosphere. Our “Eat Street” will also have a variety of food and drinks for purchase.

This will all be topped off with additional outdoor performances from students during intermission. Programs will also available for purchase on the night. Prepare to be entertained from beginning to end.

Where will the performances be held?

We will be hosting a combination of both matinee and evening performances in the theatre @ Bishop Druitt College from Wednesday 13th November to Saturday 16th November 2019. Just park within the school grounds and follow the music to find the fun!

Some words from our students: What have the rehearsals been like?

The rehearsal process has been slow but productive and extremely fun! The entire ensemble is working as a whole now, and the musical is flowing and is becoming a spectacle. Throughout the rehearsal process there has been an immense amount of pressure on the characters, but most people would say that “pressure makes diamonds”.

hree complimentary Therefore, the show have encountered if tickets to our very own from the audience’s I had not put myself ‘SideShow Alley’, where perspective should be out there and become you can experience “ultramatic” - Thomas a part of the musical. the fun and games of an Sweeney - Kenickie.

Being in Grease has interactive carnival atmosphere.

Why did you taught me so many new audition? things, like how to be I auditioned because more confident in front I wanted to have an of a crowd, as well as experience I’ve never had before. I’ve always obtaining more social and collaborative skills. wanted to be in a musical and I love acting, Grease has been an amazing experience for so when the opportunity presented itself, everyone involved and will be something that I was thrilled. I have also watched Grease everyone needs to see. Shannon Stafford hundreds of times over. It was my favourite Chorus. musical as a kid, and I’ve always loved Danny. Why should we come to watch?

I was amazed that I actually got the role of Everyone should come and watch Grease, Danny. I’m hoping that this performance because it is a classic high school story (that can be great and we can put on an amazing everyone knows and loves) directed and show for everyone who comes to watch! performed by talented and enthusiastic Kyle Lang - Danny. students and teachers, many of whom don’t What is your favourite thing about being get many opportunities to do what they love a part of this musical? on stage. This was an exciting opportunity My favourite part about being in this for all of us. Everyone involved has put their musical is being able to experience so many all into making this show what it is today, new and different things that I would not and we’ve had fun doing it! So, take a step

back in time and come and enjoy our version of Grease. You won’t regret it! Meg Denman - Rizzo.

Performance dates?

Wednesday 13th - evening performance - SideShow Alley and Eat Street kicks off @ 6pm for a 6:30pm official showtime.

Friday 15th - evening performance SideShow Alley and Eat Street kicks off @ 6pm for a 6:30pm official showtime.

Saturday 16th - matinee performance SideShow Alley and Eat Street kicks off @ 12:30pm for a 1pm official showtime.

Saturday 16th - evening performance SideShow Alley and Eat Street kicks off @ 6pm for a 6:30pm official showtime.

How do I purchase tickets?

You can contact us to purchase tickets directly at the school by: phone on 6651 5644, visit us at the school, or via Try Booking website at the following link: https://www.trybooking.com/book/ event?eid=540641& Thanks everyone.

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FE

S T I VA L O F

REGIONAL SMALL HALLS READY TO LIGHT UP WITH MUSIC THIS SUMMER

Australia’s largest dedicated regional music tour, Festival of Small Halls, has announced its 2019 Summer Tour, featuring award-winning English singer-songwriter Blair Dunlop and famed highenergy Queensland duo, Hat Fitz and Cara.

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ith a dedication to getting off the beaten track, the not-for-profit music tour celebrates the time-old tradition of gathering in the local small hall for a special night of live music, storytelling and

community connection.

Launching in the rolling hills of northern NSW at Mullum Music Festival on 17th November, the Festival of Small Halls Summer Tour will travel to twenty town halls. Encompassing the Darling Downs areas and crossing the Fraser, Keppel and Cassowary Coasts, this tour journeys as far as the lush rainforests north of Cairns and back again before wrapping up at Woodford Folk Festival, 27th December - 1st January.

Producer Eleanor Rigden said running the tour in partnership with some of Australia’s leading music festivals enables them to “bring in the best contemporary and folk artists”.

“We’ve spoken to communities all over the country, and they want access to wonderful music without the cost, challenges and inconveniences of packing up the family to get to a show in the city.

38 Coffs Coast focus

“We also know that musicians desperately want to get out and play their music in these really special, intimate environments.

“So really, we’re like the connecting piece in the puzzle supporting both groups to get what they want!” Ms Rigden said.

Teaming up for this year’s Summer Tour, Blair Dunlop and Hat Fitz and Cara are raring to jump on the bus and get out into the small halls of Australia.

“I’m already counting down the days ‘til the tour starts,” said UK-based Blair.

“Australia is such a special place to play; it’s going to be very fun checking out some new spots.

“To be ending the run at Woodford Folk Festival is very exciting.

People have been telling me great things for years, so I’m looking forward to experiencing it first hand,” said Blair.

Local legends Hat Fitz and Cara agree.

“It is communities like these that have supported us throughout our career, and we are excited to have the opportunity to reconnect with them in these magnificent small halls,” said Cara Robinson of Hat Fitz and Cara.

Ms Rigden is looking forward to seeing fresh friendships blossom in small communities across the country: “Blair Dunlop and Hat Fitz and Cara have been chosen not only because of their beautiful musicianship, but because they have the ability to really connect with people through storytelling, the ability to tell a joke, as well as a wonderful warmth and real interest in connecting with the audience.

“We’ve also decided to really liven up the run this year - those old hall roofs are going to rock!”

The Festival of Small Halls Summer Tour starts 17th November at Mullum Music Festival. Tickets on sale now at www.festivalofsmallhalls.com 24th November at the Toormina Community Centre, Toormina.

171 Toormina Rd, Toormina NSW 2452

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY

NATIONAL STILL LIFE AWARD 2OI9

21 SEPTEMBER — 30 NOVEMBER STILL IS A BIENNIAL, ACQUISITIVE AWARD FOR ARTWORKS IN THE GENRE OF STILL LIFE, IN ALL MEDIUMS. STILL 2019 FEATURES 58 AUSTRALIAN ARTISTS EXPLORING DIVERSE APPROACHES TO STILL LIFE.

Victoria Reichelt, Corrugated Horror, 2018. Oil on linen.

MAJOR SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

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

Coffs Coast focus 39

focusinterview.

Melinda Schneider A Farewell To Doris Day Melinda Schneider has enjoyed 40 years in entertainment, released a whopping 14 ALBUMS AND BEEN AWARDED AN UNBELIEVABLE SIX CMAA GOLDEN GUITARS. SINGER SONGWRITER, THEATRE PERFORMER, ACTOR - Mel has successfully paved her way through the Australian entertainment industry, proving a fearless force to be reckoned with!

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ongratulations - you’re on tour again. You must be really excited!

Thank you. Yes, I’m touring regionally, so it’s going to be great. I love getting out into those areas and seeing everyone and all of the people who have come to my shows before.

It’s always nice to go for long drives in regional parts of Australia. I really enjoy it.

You’ve been performing since the age of eight. Fast forward to today; did you ever imagine that your career would span four decades in Australian entertainment?

I didn’t ever think about it, really. You’re always in the moment of where you are, and you don’t really think that far ahead. I guess I’m not surprised, because I’ve grown up in a show business family; my mum has been performing since she was a little kid and is still making records now at 85 years of age. It’s just in my genes, and I’m very lucky.

Your current tour, A Farewell to Doris Day is a nostalgic celebration of a woman’s remarkable life. What is it about Doris that inspired you to share and perform her life’s work on stage?

I love Doris and have always loved her since I was about eight and saw her on Calamity Jane - Saturday afternoon movies. I just fell in love with her spirit and her voice and her beautiful face and her comedic skills. She was funny, she was a beautiful singer, she could dance so well, was a great actor and all of those things, 40 Coffs Coast focus

come along to my shows but I think above all THERE ARE 10 YEAR OLD may not have been huge of that was her spirit GIRLS COMING WITH Doris fans (they might that I connected with.

THEIR GRANDMOTHERS have just come along I just thought she was AND THERE ARE 90 YEAR with their friends), they a beautiful spirit, and I OLDS COMING ALONG, SO were always surprised by wanted to be her best IT IS QUITE BROAD. I JUST how many songs they friend. I think a lot of THINK PEOPLE DON’T GET recognised and how many people wanted to be her TO HEAR THIS MUSIC VERY they knew. best friend.

OFTEN ANYMORE. NOT A People have said to me Your previous theatre LOT OF THIS IS PLAYED, AND that I have a similar pershows at the Sydney IT IS REALLY BEAUTIFUL. sona to Doris, and I guess Opera House proved I’ve always had that girl to be iconic and sold next door image myself out twice. What is it and I’m always smiling and that kind of thing, about your performances that captivate so it fits in naturally to Doris. the Australian audience?

You’re passionate about empowering I just think that people love Doris Day and women not only in the music industry, they love the songs. It’s a certain demographic but in all walks of life. Can you share a of people who come to see the shows, but it’s little insight into some of the work you do also a very broad audience. There are 10 year around this? old girls coming with their grandmothers and I’ve been doing a lot more with this since there are 90 year olds coming along, so it is last April, when I released my single My Voice, quite broad. I just think people don’t get to hear this music very often anymore. Not a lot of which was all around the “Me Too” movement and around the initiative in Australia to this is played, and it is really beautiful. stop sexual harassment in the workplace. It’s a The way we have done this show in the capital cities with a 20 piece orchestra and a big subject I’m passionate about, and it’s really just band entails a lot of preparation, but it was abthe beginning for me. I’m going to be doing a solutely gorgeous. I think it takes people back lot more of that and a lot more empowering of to Hollywood, and it’s those days of Hollywood women. with the beautiful orchestrations and songs I’ve had my fair share of harassment, that were just so well written that everyone bullying, put downs and trials thrown at me knows and remembers. my whole life by different people, so I am very Even though some of the people who have passionate about freedom and standing up to

the bullies and having a right to be yourself.

What has been your most memorable career highlight?

Performing at the Opera House has to be the one. I have done that four times in the past eight years, which is something I am really proud of. It’s one of the most iconic venues in the world, and it is such a thrill every time I do a show there.

The other one would be going on the Howard Stern Show in New York with my mum, which was quite a few years ago - about 20 years ago actually. I just love Howard Stern, so that was a huge highlight for me.

What’s next for you in 2020?

I’m releasing a new album, which is an album for women and the people who love them. I’m launching a new record label as well, which is all about me taking my power back and doing things the way I want to do them.

My aim is more freedom and authenticity from me; we tend to do that in our late 40s.

Thanks Melinda.

Melinda Schneider: A Farewell To Doris, Saturday, November 23.

C.ex - WOOLGOOLGA, NSW. www.cex.com.au | (02) 6654 1307 Friday, November 22.

Glasshouse - PORT MACQUARIE, NSW www.glasshouse.org.au | (02) 6581 8888.

Coffs Coast focus 41

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

BWN Cecilia & Carolineat Opal Cove

BWN at Opal Cove

Alyce & Craig Dickinson

Jerard Odwyer, Nicci Seccombe, Holly Corfe

Dave Neal, Leanne Neal & Sam Neal

Alisha Myers, Lily Mei Goodacre & Kimberlei Goodacre

Frances Guy, Karen Worthing, Sue Beehet & Ellaine Jefford

Catherine Wilson, Michelle Der Kinderen & Jacqui Fogarty

BWN Elizabeth, Diana Joanne & Vicky at Opal Cove

social scene.

Living here on the Coffs Coast is like being on a permanent vacation, location-wise! I have just got back from an amazing time overseas; we hadn’t taken holidays for so long, but we work hard and life has to be lived - that’s for sure! Europe is wonderful, but arriving back to our piece of paradise is nothing short of a blessing!

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he funny thing about November is that it becomes very obvious that Christmas is just around the corner and Santa and his helpers are already busy getting all the presents sorted out! The stores are already stocking their Christmas wares in October and as I heard, our very own Sam Dawson from the FOCUS team started decorating her office space a couple of weeks ago; I guess we should just bring it on!

There is some exciting news to announce for the Coffs Coast this festive season we would like to share. The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is organising something special in Sawtell for Christmas this year. You can certainly now add First Avenue to your list of Christmas light viewing drives. Sawtell’s main street will be sparkling this festive season, with the addition of a fabulous Christmas tree in the centre of the street. The tree is being designed and donated

by Advance Metal Industries Australia, who are located at 183 Orlando St, Coffs HarbourContact: 6652 6955.

The first of the Sawtell Summer Sessions will commence on Saturday 9th November. This sees beautiful First Avenue in Sawtell being closed off from 4pm - 8pm.This allows visitors and locals to peruse the stores, enjoy the free entertainment and either enjoy a takeaway or a meal from

42 Coffs Coast focus

somewhere in the street.

FOCUS attended another successful Coffs Coast BWN event just recently, which was staged at Beachfront Opal Cove Resort. The Business Women’s Network is a non-fee, notfor-profit organisation dedicated to improving business opportunities for women on the Coffs Coast. They mix up their events, which consist of breakfasts, lunches and evening soirees.

This event was a delicious breakfast with ever popular guest speaker Kate Toon. Kate shared her message about overcoming self-doubt and achieving a lot more in your life. These events always leave you feeling uplifted and boost you up to get on with business. To contact the BWN, call: 0428 450 801, email info@bwn.org.au/ or you can simply sign up on FB. We try to mix it up a bit with covering events.

If you need to contact me about a future event, please do not hesitate to contact me on: 0417 471 019 or call the Coffs Harbour FOCUS office on 6650 9343.

We recently attended the Bellingen Markets - and what a day it was. These markets always attract a crowd, and it’s a good reason to get over to Bellingen to experience how beautiful it really is out there! There were over 260 amazing stalls, all set up for us to peruse and tempt us.

The diverse stalls consisted of delicious food, local artisans, creators, producers, alternative

therapies, crafts, along with growers, massage treatment spaces, to name but a few. Attendees could enjoy live music all day long, with buskers and talented performers all though the markets.

Of course, there was more than enough to keep the kids busy, with a jumping castle, pony rides, face painting, swings and games. You can literally make a day of it. All the profit from the Bellingen markets goes back into the community.

Another mention for Bellingen, with the “Brew Day Out” happening at the Federal Hotel on Saturday November 9th from 3pm - 11:30pm.

There will Craft Beer and Cider and Wine tastings with a Hillbilly Style Menu. Of course, there will be live music to entertain the crowd. This event is in its fifth year and is a super popular do. Don’t miss out; get dressed up in a grandpa cap, throw some braces on your pants, a pair of dungarees, pretty dresses and go and have some fun. FOCUS is going, so see you there!

From Bellingen to Toormina, we were certainly trying to cover a few this month! Coffs Coast Beer, Food and Wine Festival was staged at Toormina Hotel just recently, and it was certainly the chance to taste your way through a fine range of local craft beer, wines and delicious dishes. This was the second annual festival, and it certainly drew in a crowd. It was an all-day event with lots of live entertainment throughout the day and plenty of activities and fun for the

children. As I have mentioned many times before, it doesn’t matter where you are on the Coffs Coast; there is always something for everyone!

We gathered a few friends and attended the 31st Rotary Cartoon exhibition, which was showcased at the National Bunker Cartoon Gallery in Coffs Harbour. The exhibition has been running from Saturday 7th September, but don’t worry … you still have the chance to see it, as it runs until the 17th November! Now in its 31st year, it’s the backbone of the Gallery’s Cartoon Collection. Great fun and wonderful to see cartoonists’ original works from around Australia.

FOCUS just attended another superb event at the picturesque Two Tails Wines at Orara. What a beautiful afternoon it was! The tranquility out there is priceless, and the food is definitely delicious! The Beers and BBQ event attracted a crowd, and attendees enjoyed views overlooking the vines whilst listening to the sounds of Taylor James, drinking amazing wine (of course!) and feasting on BBQ Ribs, buckets of fresh prawns, mini gourmet cheese burgers, to name just a few. Two Tails Wines never fails to delight.

Here is to …

Facing, fixing and forgetting it …

(Our family motto.)

Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.

focus_contributor

social scene.

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Suze Wise & Toni Collins

Vicki Totzl, Ellie McEvoy, Sarah Speirs, Bianca Hensman, Sarah Morgan & Tasanee Alam

Peter Siri & Melissa Siri

Unreal Comedy Night at the Pier Hotel

Brianna Hwitson, Abby McConnachie & Tess Graham

Luke Kennedy, Madonna Bannerman & Laura Salan

BWN Breakfast with guest speaker Kate Toon

Unreal Comedy Night at the Pier Hotel

Nicky Lim & Nouar Irani

Wayne Harvey & Michelle Harvey

BWN Cath Sharon and Emma at Opal Cove

Marianne Cole & Dustin Kohlhagen

Lindsay webb & Chris Hines

BWN Kate, Jane and Lisa at Opal Cove

Debbie Wintor & Ursula Hohn

Jaimi Wall & Clayton Hoy

Mikayla & Paige

Hannah Steele, Emily Bailey & Erin McKay Coffs Coast focus 43

kennards hire

It’s on again! The world’s fastest rally car drivers return to the Coffs Coast for Kennards Hire Rally Australia from 14 - 17 November - and again one will go home as the 2019 World Champion. One of the greatest contests in world motorsport will be finalised on the forestry and rural roads of this beautiful region.

Organisers and fans are hoping the WRC season finale will go down to the wire, as it did in 2018.

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ast November, Sébastien Ogier, Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak arrived Down Under, all with a chance of scooping the driver’s title, in a scenario that hadn’t occurred for many years. They battled throughout the weekend, until Neuville and Tänak dropped out on the final morning and it was left for Ogier to climb the podium and claim his trophy after the last stage on the last day on the last rally of the season.

Incredible! Yes, for Ogier and the fans, but heartbreaking for his rivals.

Experts said it couldn’t happen again, but it has - because the WRC is the most unpredictable series in motorsport. The same trio - Ogier for Citroën, Neuville for Hyundai and Tänak for Toyota - has traded blows all season, and each driver has had a turn at the top of the standings.

The Estonian Tänak has held the advantage as the season winds down, but just when he thought the prize might be in the bag, Ogier boosted his own chances of a seventh-straight title with an heroic comeback win in Turkey.

After Great Britain, just three points stood between Tänak and his maiden title, along with only a slim chance of wrapping it up at the penultimate round in Spain.

Now we wait to see how the Estonian, the Frenchman and the Belgian are placed as the WRC arrives here for its grand finale. Many hazards and challenges lie in wait to spoil their party.

The only certainty is ... uncertainty.

WHAT’S THE WRC ALL ABOUT?

It’s often called the Gravel Grand Prix, because it’s the equivalent of Formula 1, the pinnacle of the sport.

The leading teams represent the world’s 44 Coffs Coast focus

biggest auto makers, Toyota, Hyundai, Citroën, Ford - which for marketing glory invest tens of millions of dollars to enter cars that start as $20,000 urban runabouts and end as fire-breathing forest racers costing almost $1 million. Yet the cars must remain able and legal to be driven on the road, and they’re a common sight in Coffs Harbour traffic when transiting between stages during the rally.

Rally crews - driver and co-driver (navigator) - race one at a time against the clock at Kennards Hire Rally Australia over 325 km of “special stages” of varying distance and terrain, from Thursday to Sunday. The crew with the fastest overall time wins the event and earns the most points for their championship tally.

Unlike circuit racing, rally crews are allowed no high-speed practice or qualifying in their cars. Route reconnaissance is done in non-competition cars within the usual speed limits; “pace” notes compiled by the co-driver during this exercise are all that’s available to guide the driver when the light goes green. It’s a recipe for breathtaking displays of wheel skill and bravery and incredibly close competition as drivers trade blows on successive runs.

The wild card is any sort of incident from a spectacular rollover to a mere puncture to a mechanical failure that costs time. The fightbacks can be enthralling.

WHAT TO SEE AT RALLY AUSTRALIA

Rally Show and Ceremonial Start (Thursday 14th November, 3:30pm, Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore. FREE.) The traditional event preview is the place to meet the drivers, grab a selfie or an autograph and check out the amazing cars up-close.

Cars are flagged across November - Sunday Unlike circuit racing, rally 17th November, all the ramp to officially start crews are allowed no day, multiple locations. the rally. high-speed practice or TICKET REQUIRED. Destination NSW Super qualifying in their cars.

CORPORATE Special Stage (Thursday Route reconnaissance is HOSPITALITY 14th November, first done in non-competition AVAILABLE.) car 4:30pm; Friday cars within the usual There are excellent 15th November, first speed limits; “pace” notes viewing spots every day car 5pm; Coffs Harbour compiled by the co-driver where you can enjoy Jetty Foreshore. TICKET during this exercise are all the true, traditional REQUIRED. CORPORATE that’s available to guide rally experience of HOSPITALITY AVAILABLE.) the driver when the light rally cars sliding past, The rally comes to goes green. up-close at hair-raising town for the Destination speed. The highlight is NSW Super Special Stage the NSW Forests Rally around a 1.3 km course Village on Sunday’s flanked by harbour and Wedding Bells stage, which witnesses the ocean. The hill in front of the former Deep event finale and podium presentation. Check Sea Fishing Club allows excellent elevated the Spectator Guide on the rally official viewing of most of the course as cars website for times, locations, maps, ticket negotiate jumps, a water splash and tight prices and even bus timetables for those who turns. It’s the rally’s spectating highlight. don’t want to drive from town. The spectator Pedders Rally Central (Thursday 14th points have all facilities, some including November - Sunday 17th November, open commentary. all day and evening, C.ex Coffs International Stadium. FREE.) The competitors’ service park is where cars - and crews - are replenished and repaired during timed breaks from the competition stages. See some of the world’s best mechanics perform incredible feats in record time. Pedders Rally Central also is where you’ll buy event and team souvenirs, top yourself up at the Taste of the World international food festival and Coopers Bar, watch all-day rally action on the big screens, visit trade displays, see the leading drivers interviewed on stage and, best of all, catch Saturday night’s free DRAGON concert (for four-day ticket-holders).

Daytime Special Stages (Friday 15th

BUY KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA TICKETS AT WWW.TICKETEK.COM

ROCK down memory lane with legendary band DRAGON, who’ll perform a free concert for holders of four-day Ultimate Get Me Everywhere tickets. Supported by local acts D’Boyzos and Kailey Pallas, the show starts at 6:30pm on Saturday night at Pedders Rally Central. Dragon’s set will be preceded by the highly-entertaining Meet-the-Crews session, when the day’s top three drivers and their team bosses will be interviewed on stage.

Grab some food from the Taste of the World international food fair, adjacent to the concert area.

, S E T A M E H T Y Y L L I L M A A R F E RALLY TH MPIONSHIP A RALLY CH D L R O W FI A FOR THE

INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL

WRC SHOWDOWN | DNSW SUPER SPECIAL STAGE RALLY SHOW | DAILY SPECTATOR POINTS PEDDERS RALLY CENTRAL | SUNDAY RALLY VILLAGE

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focusinterview.

Geoff King

Motors

Coffs Coast Motors, incorporating the Mazda and Honda franchises, has recently relocated to brand new facilities adjoining Geoff King Motors on the Pacific Highway ... so we chatted to Paul King about all the changes, the great Mazda range and their professional and experienced sales team.

P

aul, tell us about the recent move to the new location?

The new facility is fantastic, with large air-conditioned showrooms to showcase the Mazda, Honda and MG Brands.

Along with this, we have a large spare parts warehouse to supply your parts and accessory needs and a 10 bay workshop. The new facility offers plenty of off street parking, to make access for sales and service nice and easy.

Who makes up your sales team, and what do they bring to your business?

The team is under the leadership of my brother in-law, DP Michael White, with Craig Ranson and Mark Herdon. The team has a wealth of knowledge in the Mazda and Honda range of vehicles, so feel free to call in and have a chat with them today. We also have Darol Harrison on hand for all things finance, so feel free to come and sit with Darol, so we can arrange finance on your new or used vehicle.

What can people expect when they service their Mazda or Honda?

Coffs Coast Motors has introduced driveway service between 7:30 - 8:30am to make dropping off your vehicle quick and easy, thus enabling you to get to your next appointment more quickly. Look for our service team as you drive in the front gate. We also run a courtesy shuttle for drop off and collection from town

46 Coffs Coast focus

and Park Beach Plaza every day. If you would like to wait, take a seat in our large new customer lounge area, have a coffee, catch up on the latest news and make use of the complimentary WiFi. Can your team assist people with deciding on what best suits their needs?

Coffs Coast Motors has a new or used vehicle to suit everyone’s needs. We have a range of small passenger vehicles, SUVs, people movers, as well as 4x4 vehicles.

Our team is more than happy to spend the time finding the right vehicle to suit you.

We can also supply a large range We can also supply a of accessories - anything large range of accessories from roof racks, tow- anything from roof a seven year unlimited bars, canopies and racks, tow-bars, canopies kilometre warranty. We more, so your vehicle is and more, so your vehicle have the MG ZS SUV ready to go as you drive is ready to go as you also on display and look away. We will also welcome drive away. We will also forward to the launch of the new Mazda CX30 to the welcome the new Mazda the all new HS later in the range early in the new year.

CX30 to the range early year. in the New Year. (*V-Facts September Geoff King MG - we 2019.) are very excited to have our MG franchise in a Contact details: brand new showroom also. The ever popular 211 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 MG3 automatic hatch is on display; this is Coffs (02) 6652 3122 Harbour’s number one selling small car under Mon - Fri: 8am - 5:30pm. $25,000.* All new MGs are also backed by Sat: 8am - 3pm. Sun: Closed.

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T H W A I T E S

T

M A R I N E

NEW PREMISES. NEW BOATS. NEW OUTBOARDS!

hwaites Marine is a five-year old family business set in Coffs Harbour, operating in the stretch of coast from Sydney to the Gold Coast. They are experienced marine engineers and mechanics, servicing all brands and makes of inboard and outboard engines.

Now they also sell Stacer boats and Evinrude outboards.

Ben Thwaites and his partner Laura Peregrin speak about their new set of products: “Stacer boats are modern-looking and well built. The warranty and quality control of both Stacer and Evinrude are outstanding and in accordance with the way we operate as a business. The new Stacer hull designs are extraordinary, with a great blend of ride quality and stability. We are also highly impressed with the quality of

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the new Evinrude engines. Specifically, the Evinrude G2 range is unbeatable in several fronts: the most torque/ power delivery, great fuel economy, a highly reduced maintenance cost … and they are the cleanest outboard on the market!

“The range of products we have in stock suit the most common practices and uses in the area: fishing, diving and pleasure boating.

We are very proud to offer this well-stablished brand in Coffs Harbour, for those who seek high quality, reliable, and

affordable boats to go out to sea and return home safely. And for those who like fishing in the river, we have selected quality tinnies to use in nearby waterways.

Finance is also available, for those interested.”

The staff at Thwaites Marine are all keen, experienced fishermen, divers and sailors, which makes it easy for them to help their customers.

“We have a good understanding of people’s interests and needs. Our aim is to sell the right boat and the right engine to suit the customer’s needs. It

...for those who seek high quality, reliable, and affordable boats to go out to sea and return home safely.

is important for us that they feel comfortable with the product and that they know we have their back, with our high quality aftersale service and maintenance.

“Our new premises are at 30 Industrial Dr, Coffs Harbour, where we have a big workshop and shop front with the new Stacer and Evinrude range.

Save the date: on the 23rd November we have our In-house Boat Show, where everyone is welcome! And for a limited time only, we have these new boats, new engines and new trailers, all with 10-Year Warranty! Contact us for more information and stay tuned through our Facebook and Instagram pages and our website: www.thwaitesmarine.com.au

focus_tourism

WITH FIONA BARDEN

events+ UPDATE

Kevin Hogan - Your Local MP

Culture, Arts and Festivals of the Coffs Coast The Coffs Coast is well known for its diversity in the event space in not only bringing fantastic sporting events to the region, but also a thriving cultural scene, with many local, national and international acts entertaining locals and visitors alike.

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offs Harbour has once again Folk and Bluegrass Festival, Blues and Berries won the globally acclaimed Festival and a new festival, Botanica - An International Festivals and Evening in the Gardens. Details of these and Events Association (IFEA) other events can be found at coffscoast.com.au/ World Festival and Event City events-showcase Award - for the fifth year Artisans and Galleries in a row! This award shows the community’s The Coffs Coast lifestyle attracts many commitment and combined effort to encourage talented artists to the region, working with a growth and success of quality festivals and wonderful array of materials such as wood, events in our region. metal, glass, ceramics and paint. You’re This award recognises many of the events encouraged to visit these local artisans, their held on the Coffs Coast, including some of our varied genres displayed throughout the many notable cultural events galleries, studios and shops such as Sawtell Chilli across the region.

Festival, The Bald Archies, Meet our Local Artists Bello Winter Music, In a number of the Woolgoolga Curryfest, Coffs Coast’s galleries IT DOESN’T MATTER SWIFF and Coffs Harbour you can meet the artist WHAT TIME OF International Buskers and as they work and create.

THE YEAR IT IS ON Comedy Festival, each AWL leather at The Old THE COFFS COAST, THERE IS ALWAYS A one attracting a different Butter Factory, Bellingen, DIFFERENT EVENT audience and bringing a builds on its far-reaching TO EXPERIENCE. diverse range of visitors to reputation of carefully the area. crafted handmade Events on the Coffs footwear and leather Coast are held in a variety accessories. All items are of venues, including the Jetty Foreshores, C.ex made onsite, where you can watch the artisans Coffs International Stadium, the Jetty Memorial working with raw materials creating an end Theatre, Sawtell village, Woolgoolga Beach, product available for purchase at their outlet.

Bellingen town centre and the North Coast The Wadjar Regional Indigenous Gallery Regional Botanic Gardens. The gardens, with located at Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre their picturesque surrounds and beautiful displays the works of regional Indigenous relaxed setting, host events such as Harmony artists. It is a major drawcard in educating and Day, an annual event celebrating the cultural enhancing the cultural experience of visitors. diversity of the Coffs Coast, from the traditional The gallery displays many forms of exciting custodians of the land to those who have come Aboriginal art, including paintings, ceramics, from many countries around the world. prints, photographs, sculptures and mixed Upcoming Cultural Events and Exhibitions media works.

It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is The Coffs Coast is home to cultural and on the Coffs Coast, there is always a different artisan activities, events and opportunities, event to experience. Coming up over the next showing the vastness of the offering and appeal few months are the Still Life Exhibition, Dorrigo on the #coffscoast. #naturallyconnected

I held a morning tea recently to congratulate our local young sporting champs. They have all represented us at a state or national level and are excelling at their chosen sport.

Pictured above are 15-year olds Ella Bhatti and Emily Knott and 13-year old Alice Webster, who attended the National Youth Soccer Championships.

Congratulations also to Aheisha Mcphillips, Lily Hallawell, Benjamin Warden, Amy Matthews, Ruby Pade and Lachlan Rook. The Local Sporting Champions program provides financial assistance for competitors aged 12 - 18 participating in state, national or international championships. If you visit www.sportaus.gov.au and go to Grants and Funding, you can apply there.

Great to attend Woolgoolga’s Annual Curryfest.

This event attracts more than 15,000 people every year and injects $1.7 million into our local economy. Thank you to the Committee: Pam Fayle, Carl Mower, Sherry Price, Michael Bryers, Emily Berry, Tegan Swan, Cherie Topfer and Sam Newman.

The Woolgoolga Seahorses held their presentation night recently. After a year off, it was wonderful to see them back in Group 2 this season.

Well done to all the players and the committee who got the club back playing. Also, the local sponsors, who have been backing the Seahorses for years.

Congratulations to the committee: Ryan Hopkins, his dad Darren Hopkins, Stuart Evans, Sam Sinclair and Gavin Spencer.

Coffs Coast focus 49

focusinterview.

WITH SAM DAWSON OF PFLAG COFFS COAST

HIDDEN H A R R I S O N

W

M E A G H E R

HUMANITY

hat kind of on a different team to somebody else. videos do The videos and content I make have the you make on objective of combatting this tribal mentality YouTube: and rather than focusing on the different I make interview groups that exist, I really want to emphasise style and human the human beings within them. focused videos. I like to introduce and I hope that by doing this I can promote summarise each topic I am discussing, but the loving and kind similarities we all have really enjoy capturing and highlighting the and ultimately help people who feel alone or uniqueness of the person I am talking to. discriminated against.

For example, I recently created a video What direction are you taking it in next, with one of my transgender friends, where and what subjects would you like to I sat her down, asked her a set of questions tackle? and got her to share her personal journey I would love to continue to delve deeper of transitioning into the into the LGBTQI person she always felt community, as well as she was. the different religious What does “Hidden denominations and I recently created a Humanity” mean to faiths that different video with one of my you? people prescribe to. transgender friends, I think that within all Both these sections where I sat her down, of us we have a similar of our global society asked her a set of make up of primal are interesting to me, questions and got her emotions, thoughts and and I would love to to share her personal desires. promote and educate journey of transitioning Of course, on top of all others about them, into the person she always of this we have our own while showcasing the felt she was. unique lives and nuances individuals who live that help us construct a their lives inside them. path that fits us best, but How can people find we often forget or fail to out more and get see that which makes us all the same. involved?

For example, we all feel sad about leaving If you would like to check out my channel, someone we love, we all have trouble just head to YouTube and search “Harrison opening to others, and we all desire to have Hidden Humanity” and you will see my face, someone in our life who combats that feeling as well as the different videos I have put of loneliness. together.

What are you trying to achieve with your I am always looking for more people to content? create videos with, so if you would like to be The world we live in now has become very in one and share your own journey (within tribal and heavily focused on the team you any community you belong to), please feel are on (gay, straight, transgender, etc.). While free to contact me. You can send me an email it is great to be in a loving community, a lot at harrisonmeagher@hotmail.com or call/text of us do not see it this way, and you often see me on 0434 231 749. abuse being sent out just because someone is 50 Coffs Coast focus

Melbourne Cup Lunch TUESDAY NOV 5th $85 tickets or $109 incl. Drinks Gourmet Buffet Lunch, Private VIP area & a Race Book

coffsracingclub.com.au 62 Howard St, Coffs Harbour PO Box 482 Coffs Harbour 2450 (02) 6652 1488

focus_archives

WITH KEV SMITH

ULONG

T

hese days known as the “Village in the Valley”, the town made its mark in the logging days when our timber industry was alive and well. There were tree fellers and several mills around the area searching for Tallowood, huge pines, Red Cedar and Blackbutt. Along with this came families, so shops and services were needed within the district. With the introduction of the Glenreagh mountain rail line, a platform and rail house was built to move the timber down the valley safely and efficiently. Gold was also found in the area through the creeks and valleys; these days only the die-hard search for colour in the thickly overgrown scrub, where plenty of rain and heat mix to create a near jungle-like environment.

It’s great to see these little villages still survive today, long after industries close up for whatever reason. Within the town’s limits it’s still possible to view the old platform and rail house, which has beautiful architectural features; there are 100 year old timber

Ulong in the hinterland west of Coffs is a beautiful little village, but did you know it was once larger than Coffs itself ? bridges across creek, old relics around and several stands of the Hoop Pine Trees have been preserved. Ulong thrives on tourists now; it’s the gateway to other National Parks, beautiful waterfalls and tourist drives, where visitors can grab some of the best coffee and cake on the coast from the local café. Just beside the PO Café is the historical Melody Theatre, that opened in 1949. With a seating capacity of 400 on opening day, it was standing room only, and it was built complete with a foyer, shop, office and a ladies’ room. With different levels, it must have been an amazing building built with local materials, also with emergency power and a PA system. Sadly, it closed in 1960, but today this impressive timber building stands proudly in the main street.

Within the area, this is another example of our dying history with abandoned and dangerous buildings (I can see the old theatre being demolished within a few years); there are huge old logging drays in the bush and with the demise of the old railing, it won’t be long ‘til that’s off limits due to public liability.

3

2020 Limited places in other years

Coffs Coast focus 51

focusinterview.

ADVANCED

MECHANICAL S E R V I C E S

T

NOT LONG AFTER MOVING TO COFFS HARBOUR, CRAIG MARKWORT AND CHRIS RANFORD STRUCK UP A FRIENDSHIP, MAINLY OVER THEIR COMMON INTERESTS AND BACKGROUNDS.

hey were discussing their previous business experience one day and realised that with the knowledge they both have, they could open their own business, Advanced Mechanical Services. And, so they did! FOCUS caught up with the pair, to find out

more …

When did your business open, and who was involved?

We opened our business in January 2015 with a bang!

We are both fully trained automotive technicians in a broad range of areas, who have lived on the stunning Coffs Coast for years. Chris actually started an automotive business back in the UK in 1990 and was lucky enough to work closely with industry leaders in ABS development and fuel injection! He has extensive knowledge with all European cars, while Craig actually started out at Toyota and BMW dealerships! His knowledge extends to all Australian models, including all-wheel drive and 4x4 cars.

What services do you offer and provide?

If you own a car, we can help! Think of us as your OneStop-Shop for all your vehicle’s needs. We pride ourselves on our great service, and we provide free job estimates.

Some of our services include air-conditioning repair and regas, brakes, timing belts, suspension, pink and blue slips, clutches, batteries, auto-electrical, radiators, and even historic registrations for cars over 30 years old! We also offer services, from basic right through to manufacturers’ log book. Phew!

52 Coffs Coast focus

We keep all repairs in house, which ultimately saves the customer time in their busy work/life schedule, and at all times the customer is able to speak to us both directly in respect to their vehicle.

We are also happy to quote on any jobs that might be a bit outside the box. We love a challenge, so if you have a request that’s unusual or unique, bring it on!

How have you adapted as time/ technology changes?

Many people don’t realise that even in our industry, you have to adapt to technology changes! We keep abreast of new technology and ensure we have the latest in snapon diagnostic equipment and keep ourselves up to speed with training. While some may find this training to be a bit boring, we really enjoy it, and it keeps us ahead of the competition.

What do you like best about your job/business?

Considering we both love everything to do with cars, there’s not a lot we don’t love about our business!

Working on cars rates very highly (of course!) along with meeting the wonderful people who entrust us with their vehicles. Troubleshooting and fixing technical problems, along with repairing cars gives us great satisfaction! And who wouldn’t feel awesome seeing a client walk away smiling and knowing their car is in tip-top condition!

What is the secret to your success?

Well, we don’t like to give away our secret to success (!); however, one of the driving forces behind our success is that we care. And we’re not just saying that! We really care about our customers, and we care about their needs.

We want them to be safe while driving out on the roads,

so we go above and beyond to make sure our customers’ cars are maintained to a safe standard.

And you have a family ... How do you juggle it all?

Both of us have families, and it can be difficult to juggle both at times. There are weeks on end where we are busy at work, but we always try to make time to spend with our families and friends. We are incredibly lucky that we both have wives who fully support us and for that, we are incredibly thankful. We are also passionate about charity work and ensure we dedicate enough time for that as well. In fact, a lot of our weekends are spent raising funds for local charities.

Tell us about your community involvement.

A few years ago, we decided to start a not-for-profit car club with Stuart Copeland from Shannon’s Insurance, as we all love vintage cars (admiring them, restoring them, driving them!) From there, it grew to a club with over 400 members and we donate to various local charities in Coffs Harbour, including the Uniting Church soup kitchen, Banardos Australia, Cancer Council, Wesley Mission, Camp Quality, and many more. Nothing brings us more joy than helping raise much-needed funds for these charities. We admire and applaud the work they do and want to give back as much as we can.

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

What’s not to love! The Coffs Coast is just an amazing place to live and work. We enjoy the beautiful weather, the stunning coastline and above all, the people.

Thanks guys.

focushealth

and I N T R O D U C I N G A R E V O LU T I O N A R Y L A S E R T R E AT M E N T FO R G U M D I S E A S E Early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) is the inflammation of the gums. This occurs when bacteria in plaque and calculus are not removed through brushing or regular scale and cleans, causing damage to the gums. Advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis) occurs when the inflammation of the gums gets worse, causing the bone supporting our teeth to degenerate.

Without any professional intervention and treatment, over time the teeth can become loose and may need extracting by a dentist.

24% of healthy Australian adults aged 18 and over have moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis), while 60% of Australians aged 74 and older suffer.

How to determine if you have gum disease?

•

Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums

•

Gums have shrunk from teeth

•

Bad breath or bad taste in the mouth

•

Loose teeth

•

Abscesses between teeth and gums

Treatment of Gum Disease The treatment for gum disease will vary with severity; mild to moderate gum disease can be treated with brushing, flossing and regular visits to your hygienists and dentist. With more severe gum disease, treatment can vary from sub gingival cleaning to treatment with a specific laser called LANAP. LANAP means Laser Assister New Attachment Procedure. This laser therapy for the treatment of gum disease is unlike traditional gum surgery; there is no cut and sew. LANAP is a minimally invasive and highly effective treatment. It is used for the treatment of moderate and advanced gum disease. LANAP is the world’s first ever and only FDA approved laser for the treatment of gum disease. Patients have come back with true regeneration of tissue and new bone formation.

Traditional gum surgery is a cut and sew procedure and can cause sensitivity, long teeth and requires ongoing maintenance. Unlike traditional gum surgery, LANAP uses a multivariable pulsed laser to kill the infected tissue, rejuvenating the gums, connective tissue and bone that support your teeth. The laser attacks pigments in the infected tissue, leaving healthy tissue undamaged. LANAP treatment not only helps the body to regenerate tissue and heal itself naturally, it also helps patients to keep their natural teeth and save smiles!

How does LANAP work?

Before any treatment, a consultation is necessary, as it allows the dentist to identify diseased tissue and whether LANAP is suitable for you. At this time, a 3D Xray will be taken and a treatment plan will be provided, with all costs, appointment lengths and any follow up

appointments necessary.

WITH

Wellbeing

LAUREN

VESTEY

FROM

LIVING

DOLL

LANAP usually occurs across two dental visits. Half the mouth is completed during the first visit, and a week later the other half of the mouth is completed. The process involves: 1.

A perio probe determines the degree of excessive pocket depth and helps the dentist better identify diseased tissue and areas of bacterial infection.

2.

The laser removes diseased tissue, while the heat of the laser kills the bacteria.

3.

The dentist removes the tartar from the root surface using an ultrasonic scaler and special hand instruments.

4.

The laser is used to clean the pocket one more time.

5.

The gum is sealed closed to prevent further infection.

6.

Any high biting spots are smoothed down to create even force on the tooth.

7.

Over time, the bone regenerates and the periodontal ligament re-attaches to the tooth.

PARTY

HAIR

Benefits of LANAP •

Saves your natural teeth

•

Safe, precise and effective treatment

•

Bone regeneration up to 50% in patients who follow the protocol and have normal healing

•

One-time treatment

•

Less discomfort

•

Improved recovery time

•

Little to no recession in gums and regeneration in bone levels.

•

Reduces inflammation and bleeding

•

Helps long term health

•

Safer and gentler than traditional gum surgery

Contact us to Learn More about this Revolutionary Treatment If you've ever been told you have gum disease or need gum surgery, you can take advantage of the tremendous benefits that LANAP laser gum therapy offers. If your gums have become swollen, red or infected, we can help. Our very own Dr Peter Elfar was the first dentist to study and offer this treatment in Australia, with over eight years’ experience and satisfied patients who travel from all over Australia to be treated by him. Why not take this opportunity to get on top of your dental health? Take action now and call our caring team at one of our four friendly locations, call 6583 3533 or visit our website: www.lanapaustralia.com.au to find out more about this revolutionary treatment.

H

It’s that time of year again, the countdown to the party season has begun, and Christmas party hairstyles are at the top of our to-do beauty list! Here are three simple yet standout ways you can take your party hairstyle from average to A-list ...

igh Ponytail One of our favourite party hairstyles is the classic high pony. But this year, why not up the glamour and take inspiration from the bubble ponytail trend? The bubble ponytail first hit our radar in its extreme version: big, ball-sized sections of hair down the length of the ponytail, separated using elastics and teased for XXL volume.

But now we’ve fallen in love with its more chic version: the bubble sections are less poufy, but the elastics become a colourful feature themselves. When styling your hair into a high ponytail, leave a one-inch section below the base of the ponytail free. After you’ve separated the different “bubbles” using colourful elastics, take this loose section and wrap it around the base, tucking the ends in for an invisible finish.

Bring the Bling The silly season is the best excuse to dabble in a little sparkle. Get your bling on with a jewelled hair clip that can really boost your hairstyle and keep your hair out of your face (practical for impromptu dancing). A sparkly hair clip really stands out on smooth, shiny hair with a slight wave to it, after applying a heat protectant that also supports waves

and curls. If your hair is naturally straight, use a curling iron on the lower half of the hair in large sections. When cool, run your fingers through to break up the curls into low loose waves. Take your sparkly hair clip (the bigger the better) and place just above the ear to secure the hair. Leave the rest loose and long to show off your waves.

Half-up but fully fashionable If you’re looking for a practical Christmas party hairstyle that’s still as cute as Christmas, be inspired by one of this year’s top hairstyle trends: the big black bow.

Perfect for a New Year’s Eve hairstyle for medium hair, this simple yet statement accessory can be used to create a gorgeous half-up look. Ensure that your festivities won’t be dampened by frizz this year by using a serum after washing and squeezing out excess moisture. Blow dry using a paddle brush to reduce hair breakage and encourage smoothness, then tie into a halfup ponytail using a regular elastic. When it comes to your bow, you have two options.

Either tie one yourself using a thick black ribbon, or use an already-tied bow clip - an easier alternative if you aren’t able to create the perfectly balanced bow that doesn’t droop.

Coffs Coast focus 53

Dr Mark Goodrich.

C O S M E D I C E N T R E

COSMEDICENTRE IN MOONEE STREET, RIGHT IN THE HEART OF COFFS HARBOUR, IS YOUR PRACTICE FOR ALL COSMETIC MEDICAL TREATMENTS AND SERVICES. They are always working together to ensure they are up to date with the latest and greatest that cosmetic medicine has to offer.

Cosmedicentre at Toogetha Is this you? ... Scalp Micro Pigmentation is available at Cosmedicentre’s private suite situated in Toogetha, 36 Moonee Street. Scalp Micro Pigmentation is a sophisticated and artistic cosmetic treatment that disguises balding or thinning hair.

This treatment applies to men and women, as hair loss can be distressing. Hair loss and/or thinning at an early age can affect one’s confidence. Micro Pigmentation is a non-surgical solution, improving the appearance of hair density. Using a single needle, we apply tiny dots of pigment, organically reoccurring, to the scalp. Cosmedicentre also provides cosmetic eyebrow tattooing.

For more information and a free consultation, please call 1800 953 535.

TOOGETHA co-working and functionspace. We operate 8:30am - 5pm as a co-workspace, with desks, offices and training spaces for hire. We are flexible, and our space is versatile.

We have accommodated events from twilight skin care parties to group guided meditations, Christmas parties and medical seminars. The rooms are available to hire by the hour for consults, meetings, collaborations and Skype correspondence, as well as on a permanent basis. We are open to being approached, should you have a utilisation for our fluid space. A Cosmedicentre Salon resides in our Room 4, offering skin care treatments including IPL, RF, skin needling and deluxe peels and facials. We are an eclectic space and look forward to hearing from you with any enquiries.

We love our space, and you will too.

54 Coffs Coast focus

W

ho makes up your team, and what skill set do they bring to your practice?

At Cosmedicentre, our doctor is specialist ophthalmologist of 20 years Dr Mark Goodrich, whose experience is directly relevant to the field.

Dr Goodrich has performed over 2,000 plastic surgery procedures on the eyelids, eyebrows and cheeks and has a special interest in injectable cosmetic procedures that complement this surgery.

Dr Goodrich directs, delegates specifically to, and oversees your individual treatment plan with registered nurse Signa Furber. Signa has 23 years of full-time experience in the field. Signa’s extensive exposure to the industry leads to a great knowledge of specific products, procedures and how everything can come together to promote a healthy and happy self image.

Kayla, our clinical assistant and technician has been working with us for two years and has a special interest in skin care. She enjoys this role and now is trained in scalp micropigmentation treatments designed to create an organic looking hairline for people who are suffering from hair loss. Kayla is also trained in laser treatments, including IPL hair removal, pigmentation correction and redness reduction.

What treatments and services do you provide?

Our treatments include dermal fillers, muscle relaxant injections, skin needling, cosmetic eyebrow tattooing, scalp micropigmentation, IPL hair removal, IPL pigment removal, IPL redness reduction, clear and brilliant laser, cosmetic surgical blepharoplasty, eyelash lifts and tints,

brow tinting, chemical peels, hydro dermabrasion and facials.

What makes Cosmedicentre a stand out from other clinics and practices?

Our business is not a franchise with an unlimited marketing budget and regular staff turn-over. We are a local boutique cosmetic and medical clinic with a combined experience base of over 30 years both nationally and internationally, headed by a local specialist.

Cosmedicentre is a medical practice that provides cosmetic injectable treatment, including anti-wrinkle injections and dermal filler. We are a part of the specialist ophthalmology medical practice Australian Eye Care.

Accordingly, we practice medicine that is fully compliant with guidelines from the New South Wales Medical Board, AHPRA, TGA and other regulators in a fully equipped specialist medical practice.

We are not a beauty clinic, a day spa, medi-spa or anti-ageing clinic. Cosmetic injectables are regulated medicines that can only be prescribed by a doctor after a face-to-face or compliant telehealth consultation.

Administered professionally, these medicines are a safe and proven effective treatment. However, like anything in medicine, they do not come with zero risk. As such, Cosmedicentre is part of the cosmetic profession and not part of the cosmetic industry. We do not and will not try to sell you anything. We provide you with the option of a cosmetic medical service if that is in your best interest and your informed decision.

What is important when deciding on treatments?

As the demand for cosmetic services increases, the medical side of the

treatments cannot be trivialised.

You need to be comfortable with your practitioner and their experience.

Knowing you are being cared for and listened to is important when it comes to the treatments we offer. We aren’t trying to sell you something; we are working with you to ensure that what you are getting is what you want.

While adverse events are rare, most importantly they need urgent intervention and expertise at a local level from your prescribing practitioner. You want to be available to your clients if they have any worries or concerns. To be able to treat any worries with deft action is the best way to ensure that your clients feel comfortable and can be assured that we are always here if needed.

Is after service important?

After care is important! Knowledge is powerful. Your practitioner will explain all aspects of your treatment and ongoing care.

Clients are instructed on the best posttreatment protocols to ensure optimal outcomes for each treatment. The results from each treatment are reliant on how one looks after themselves once leaving the clinic.

General tips for skincare as well as post treatment care may include the use of SPF and medical grade skin care.

How can people find out more?

More about Cosmedicentre and our list of services is available on our website: www.cosmedicentre.com You can send us an email via our website, send us a message on Facebook facebook.com/cosmedicentre or call our clinic on 1800 953 535 to book a free consultation and discuss what options are available for you.

Coffs Coast focus 55

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

What are the Critical Components of a Healthy life?

H

of harmful substances are just few simple ways to ealth can, generally, be measured on major three stay healthy and fit. These are directly related to parameters: Physical, our mental, physical and emotional health.

Psychological and Nutritional.

Whether you decide to increase your activity Physical health means the levels slightly or develop and participate in a physical appearance of a thorough fitness plan, it will pay off in the long person. Nutritional health means the presence of run. Exercise is good for the health of various essential nutrients in the body to fight diseases organs of your body and makes you feel stronger. with immunity. Psychological health means the Nutrition and fitness are essential for healthy ability in a person to maintain patience, calm and living. Not only will we look and feel good, but composure in all circumstances of life. by eating the right nutritional food and doing Health professionals consider cancer, diabetes the right amount of exercise we could also lower and several other mental and physical health the chances of getting some pretty serious lifeissues such as depression, lethargic attitude, threatening diseases. etc. to deficiencies in the Things to be done for fitness and wellbeing of a maintaining balanced person. An unhealthy and healthy and fit lifestyle: unfit lifestyle of a person • Keeping body hydrated A person who is fit both also results in premature drink ample water physically and mentally death. Obesity and lack is strong enough to face • Washing hands before of physical fitness in the

the ups and downs of and after meals - maintain young generation sets the life, and is not affected stage for diabetes, heart sanitation by drastic changes in disease and other serious • Regular exercise circumstances. health problems.

• Intake of nutrients Walking, running, • Regular, sound sleep cycling, playing, Sound health not only swimming, gardening, means keeping a healthy skipping, weight-lifting and group exercise classes body, but it also includes a healthy mental are some of the important activities which help condition. Our health depends upon several us maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle. A person factors, such as food, pollution, regular sleeping who is fit both physically and mentally is strong habits, fresh air, water, sunlight, and a healthy enough to face the ups and downs of life, and is mental condition. Physical exercise is critical for not affected by drastic changes in circumstances. ensuring the fitness of our mind and body.

Staying active makes you stay energetic.

The bottom line is that if you really want to Out of the several components that affect achieve something, you’ll find a way. If you one’s health, following are the seven key don’t, you’ll find an excuse. My suggestion is to physical components to ensure overall good come in and see our team at Coffs Coast Health health, fitness and mental wellbeing: • Cardiovascular or aerobic conditioning • Strength training and muscular development • Stretching - muscles, ligaments and tendons • Core stability - both physical and mental • Nutrition and supplementation - balanced diet • Mental rest and relaxation - balanced lifestyle • Sleep - regular sleep • Eating healthy and nutrient-rich food, exercising, taking sufficient sleep, avoiding intake 56 Coffs Coast focus

Club Toormina or Moonee Beach, as they are the experts in getting more people, more active, more often here on the Coffs Coast.

Thanks for sharing, Duncan, and if you are looking to kickstart your own healthy future … simply call 1300 040 479, follow them on social media or drop in to see the friendly Coffs Coast Health Club team at either Toormina or Moonee Beach to get started today.

focuscontributor

WITH AARON HARDAKER FROM MID NORTH COAST PHYSIOTHERAPY

is your

headache NECK? COMING FROM YOUR

You might be surprised to learn that an estimated 15 - 20% of headaches actually come from the neck, and not from the head.

A

neck headache (also called a cervicogenic headache) results when your nervous system gets a bit confused. The upper three cervical spinal nerves share the same pathway to the brain as the nerve that carries messages from your face to your brain. So, sometimes the pain in your neck is misunderstood and the brain “feels” as though the pain is coming from the head.

Leading local physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker shares all the information you need to know about getting some relief from these types of headaches.

What Causes a Neck Headache?

This type of headache can originate from dysfunction in the neck joints, muscles, the vertebrae or the spinal covering; so the possible causes are many and varied. The most common cause is dysfunction in the upper three neck joints. Headaches can result if these joints are too stiff or locked into an abnormal position due to poor posture. Too much joint movement is also a problem, so you can get a headache if your neck muscles are weak, allowing the joints to move with less support and control.

The neck and shoulder blade muscles that originate in your neck can also cause headaches if they become overworked, knotted or go into spasm. A fall, sports injury, whiplash or arthritis may also lead to a neck headache.

What are the Symptoms?

Most commonly these headaches feel like they are radiating from the base of your skull to the front of your head. Normally the pain will be worse on one side of your head or face. One sign of a neck headache is pain triggered by sudden movement of your neck, such as when you sneeze. Another is that you get a headache when your neck remains in the same position for some time, such as sleeping on your stomach with your head turned to one side. Frequently

neck headaches are accompanied by tenderness at the top of the neck or base of the skull.

However, you can experience a neck headache even if your neck isn’t sore, which is why these headaches are often misdiagnosed as a migraine or a cluster headache.

How is it Diagnosed?

A thorough examination by a physiotherapist is usually the best way to diagnose cervicogenic headache. You can experience a neck headache with or without abnormalities showing up in a scan or X-ray, so a physical examination is the best place the start. In some cases, an X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be needed to identify the precise structural cause of your neck headache, but this is much less common and rarely recommended as the first port of call.

How do you Treat Neck Headache?

The good news about neck headache is that relief is often immediate, once diagnosed and treated correctly. The specific treatment will depend upon the source of the problem. Stiff neck joints may need to be treated using gentle joint mobilisation techniques. Hypermobile joints may require deep neck muscle strengthening exercises to support and control joint movement.

Stretching, massage or dry needling may be used to relax tight or over active muscles, while weaker muscles usually require specific strengthening exercises. Your physiotherapist will work with you to determine a program of stretches, massage, joint mobilisation and exercise that will alleviate the problem with your neck … and ultimately will relieve the pain in your head.

If you suspect that you might be suffering from a neck headache, then book a FREE Physio Assessment with one of Mid North Coast Physio’s friendly physiotherapists.

Call 1300 273 747 to secure an appointment in Woolgoolga, Moonee, Toormina or Urunga.

Accurate-fit laser printed Removable Partial Dentures are now a reality ...

Whilst partial dentures have been available for many years, the introduction of laser printing has revolutionised the manufacturing process for rested partial dentures (RPDs).

Patients are now able to wear an accurate partial denture that fits perfectly and is comfortable to wear.

Our practice is now working with a laboratory in Melbourne that produces metal castings using a state-of-the-art Renishaw AM 400 laser printer.

This technology is revolutionising the dental prosthetic industry by producing lightweight, accurate RPD frameworks directly from digital scans.

We are able to scan an impression of our patient’s mouth and design our castings digitally. The castings are then sent to the Melbourne lab, where the metal frameworks are printed and returned to us to finish off the manufacturing process of the partial denture.

This allows for a quicker workflow, a more accurate fit to the patient’s mouth than with traditional casting methods and eliminates human error during the process.

By using this method of producing partial dentures, we feel that we are able to offer our patients the latest technology, thus the best possible service.

Call us and book in for a free consultation.

Coffs Coast focus 57

Dr. Aaron Budden

Making Babies: Whether you’re having difficulty conceiving or you want to prevent any little surprises, there are simple ways to look after your swimmers …

C

onversation around our role in making (or preventing) babies, like many areas of men’s health, is hardly ever spoken out loud and almost never in groups of more than two. The closest we really ever get is having a dig at a mate planning “the snip” about how we won’t be able to walk or get it up, or the other mate who hasn’t had kids yet and clearly can’t get it up. Unfortunately, these jokes make some men anxious about where the fun stops and truth begins. And with the associations attached to masculinity in this area, many don’t want to talk about it out loud.

So, we are going to break down the big two: when you are struggling to conceive; and when you want to make sure there are no more.

So, you haven’t had a baby yet?

Believe it or not, worries about being able to make a baby are experienced by many men. In the absence of serious trauma to genitals, cancer in the pelvis, or nasty childhood infections, there is no reason to worry. Once you and your partner start trying to fall pregnant, it’s important to look after all aspects of your health to give you the best chance.

Some simple tips for keeping the swimmers healthy include: • Stop smoking - this can damage sperm DNA and increase the chance of miscarriage.

• Limit alcohol intake - daily drinking and binge drinking will affect your fertility.

• Stop recreation drugs - marijuana and cocaine can decrease sperm quantity.

• Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly - sitting on testicles for hours every day

58 Coffs Coast focus

can reduce sperm quantity.

• Consider eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, green vegetables and nuts.

• Have frequent sex - two - three times per week gives you time to restore sperm numbers without leaving them stored in the testicles for too long, where they can be damaged.

If you have been trying to conceive for 12 months without any luck, get yourself checked with a sperm sample. With one in four fertility problems being solely due to the male partner, just get it checked. There is no shame. This is nothing to do with your masculinity. Get it done and support your partner as she has the relevant tests done too.

So, you’ve finished having kids, but worried about the snip?

Don’t be. Although some women feel the need to control their own contraception, the permanent options for women are much more invasive than for men. So, if your partner is asking you to consider having a vasectomy, it is worth giving the idea some attention. It is an excellent contraceptive option and can often be done under local anaesthetic or light sedation. It is not going to affect your sexual performance, permanently damage your penis, or increase your risk of cancer. The most likely side effects include bruising, swelling and pain that will likely settle after a couple of days. Like any procedure, there are rare risks involved, but these need to be weighed against the other options you and your partner have. It really is easy, so if you are considering having a vasectomy, go and speak to your doctor for more information.

Genesis

D

F I T N E S S

oes age become a factor when it comes to training?

As we age, our bodies change in a few ways. One is from a little “wear and tear”, where we may find ourselves a little tighter, or having some niggles that have presented over time. The other is that as we age, we tend to lose some muscle if we don’t do some sort of resistance exercise. This means exercise becomes even more important as we get older.

We just need to choose the exercises that are best for the results we need.

It is important to note that it is never too late to get into an exercise program, even if you have never done anything before.

When it comes to different types of training, everyone needs to participate at their own pace and regardless of age, it should be adjusted based on their fitness level and previous injuries etc. Resistance training of some description is important to mix into the program too.

Before doing any type of training though, it is important to partake in our pre-exercise screening and to go over any existing or previous injuries. This helps us in designing a training plan that is right for anyone who

comes to us. We take pride in doing this at Genesis.

So, age shouldn’t stop you when it comes to training. The natural age related signs will always be there but when working with a health professional, the right training for you is always possible.

What tips do you have for men who would like to change their lifestyle?

The two biggest tips I can recommend are diet, and doing some type of physical activity for at least 45 minutes per day.

In regards to diet, set some small changes to start with that you find are achievable. This is important, because totally changing your diet is sometimes very hard to sustain due to the massive change. Try changing one meal a day to be healthier, and then add further change once you are used to it.

In regards to exercise, the same message applies. If you have been doing nothing, start with two - three days a week of activity, and add more when you can. This way you can stay consistent and not feel that you can’t fit it in.

The key is to be consistent once you start.

Setting short and long term goals are a good way to keep yourself on track. To further help,

ARTWORK PROOF - NOT FOR PRINT

a personal trainer or a dietitian may be able to help with some knowledge and motivation you may need. This can help to have somebody else keeping you accountable, and you typically also reach your goals faster.

Do you have on offer an particular classes or training sessions?

At Genesis we have a range of different group fitness classes, including Schwinn Cycle, RPM, Body Attack, Body Combat, Body Step, Body Pump, CX Works, Yoga, Pilates, 45, Zumba, Be Active, Booty Hit and we are just about to launch the popular Boxing classes.

These classes are a great way to get into fitness, because the instructor gives you the motivation to get through a workout and it’s so much more fun doing it in a group.

We also offer one on one Personal Training sessions for anyone who is wanting to have

that one on one trainer experience. This is a perfect way for someone who needs a lot of motivation and guidance. Your trainer will help you achieve goals fast.

We also have our Group Personal Training called, Coaching Zone. This is a small group Personal Training program that will get you guaranteed results for whatever you are wanting to achieve. You get to workout in a group, but also get the backing and follow up of our trainers. In this training we use heart rate technology to ensure your correct intensities are met based on the results you want to achieve.

You get access to our MYZONE heart rate monitor technology, a nutritional portal to help with diet needs, eight different session types all focusing on different aspects of strength and fitness, and professional coaches to support, motivate and track your progress.

ACHIEVE YOUR FITNESS GOALS

WITH AUSTRALIA’S

GROUP PERSONAL

TRAINING SPECIALISTS Group personal training for all fitness levels P Personalised nutrition plans P

Cutting-edge workout/performance monitoring technology

P 24/7 Access to Genesis Health and Fitness P Access to two great locations – Coffs Harbour & Toormina P

genesisfitness.com.au | coachingzone.com.au

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ARTWORK PROOF - NOT FOR PRINT

Maccas

junior

grants

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

CODI

Bellingen Braves U16s Basketball Team

Denham

What have your achievements been so far?

Representing my school in Indigenous dancing, ballet, and contemporary dancing: selected for the Aboriginal Dance company. I have danced at Saltwater/Freshwater Indigenous Festival in Coffs Harbour, participated in Eisteddfods in Kempsey, Grafton, Coffs Harbour with Rivers Dance Company and Julie Ross Dance Studio. I represented Australia in Vietnam at the Danang International Fireworks Festival performing Aboriginal Dance.

How will this grant benefit you, and how do you plan on using it?

I have been selected for the Aboriginal Dance Company in Sydney and I live in Urunga, so I have to pay for meals, transport, accommodation for a period of three months while we rehearse and train.

What are you hopes and dreams for the future?

I am adopted and both my parents are nonIndigenous, so it is important to me to maintain connected to my Aboriginal heritage. I want to continue doing Aboriginal dance and connecting with my culture for my own self-worth, but also to educate others and share my knowledge.

What have your achievements been so far?

Our team came second last year in the Northern Junior League Div 1 U/16 girls representative basketball and got a wildcard through to State Cup. This year we are undefeated and now have the finals to go to again. We are hoping we should get to the State Cup, where we are keen to improve our results.

How will this grant benefit you, and how do you plan on using it?

Getting to State Cup is an expensive exercise with travel, accommodation and food costs for nine girls and their families. Last year we had parents who couldn’t make it and girls staying all over Sydney, so if we achieved this grant before State Cup then it would benefit us in so many ways - the team could stay together as a team, which really boosts morale and bonding, which in turn can only help our game. If the grant comes through after State Cup, then we would put the money into our team costs for representative basketball next season ... we will be staying as

our team.

What are you hopes and dreams for the future?

We want to improve on our results at State Cup this year compared to last year. We want to keep our team together for next year’s Representative Basketball, as we will go up to U/18 women’s. To enable us to stay together and keep working and training as a unit would be amazing.

Who inspires you the most?

Shane Dunlop, our coach, probably inspires us all the most. He volunteers coaching four different teams, yet he is always there for our games and trainings. He continually pushes us on the court, but is very fair and gives every player really good individual advice about how we can each play to our best yet work as a team. Our parents also inspire us in so many ways, such as driving us to training, getting us to country locations to compete, giving up their weekends to do so and also having to financially support us with paying for accommodation, travel and food.

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

(Coffs Harbour & Macksville)

Children’s therapist PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & STAFF TRAINING FRESH DENTAL

2019

Grafton

Cnr Queen & Victoria Streets

6643 2225

Coffs Harbour

Suite 1, 252 Harbour Drive

6651 1350

freshdentalcare.com.au 60 Coffs Coast focus

Urunga

46 Bonville Street

6655 5800

Macksville

1 Princess Street

6568 1335

/freshdentalcare.com.au

Northside Health Northside Health is a patient-centered medical practice committed to providing quality, holistic health care for those who desire to optimise their health and wellbeing.

Our team of medical doctors, nurses and allied health practitioners are committed to working with you to develop a personalised treatment plan using the most appropriate evidencebased conventional and lifestyle medicines and treatments available.

The team, led by Dr Alexander Joannou and Dr Rosemary Ross, are able to provide an interdisciplinary, whole system approach to the prevention and reversal of chronic and lifestyle related diseases. Many chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory conditions, chronic musculoskeletal conditions, diabetes and mental health conditions share common risk factors that are largely preventable or treatable.

Lifestyle Medicine is transforming the way we

manage, treat and prevent chronic conditions by addressing the behavioural, social and environmental drivers; with tangible changes to the modifiable aspects of the whole person (physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual), health behaviours, environment, and other circumstances. This is underpinned by an enhancement of self-empowerment and selfefficacy to manage and improve our own health.

Northside Health is able to provide comprehensive healthcare through all of life’s stages, from pregnancy and early infancy through adolescence, young adulthood, middle age and advanced years.

We are proud to announce that we have recently been upgraded in our accreditation against The Royal Australian College of General Practioners (RACGP) fifth edition standards, and this demonstrates how our staff and doctors are committed to providing you with exceptional service and healthcare.

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62 Coffs Coast focus

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

November 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

Be patient just a little longer, as your dream is about to come true. You recently gave yourself permission to have something you may have been without for a long time, but now you need to wait for the timing to be perfect.

Dioptase is powerful for forgiveness, especially toward oneself.

The feeling of suspension is soon leaving your reality. In fact, soon you will be too busy “to have a chat”. New opportunities will find you, but you need to want change, and you need to have a thirst for knowledge. Enjoy!

Rose Quartz is very reassuring when you are venturing into new circumstances.

You are about to embark on a journey of selfdiscovery. You may have been through a lot of disturbance lately, but you have also brought out your most wonderful gifts and talents.

You will like the new you.

Herderite is a powerful transformation stone.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

As usual, the Pisces is following the magical scent of love! A new love is about to step forward and enrich your life. There is also the likeliness of travel. Work changes will also bring some new adventure - ENJOY! Rose Quartz, the crystal of love, will enrich and nurture any new relationship.

You have recently discovered a level of personal strength that may have surprised you. This is what you have been aspiring to all along. Take some time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself, and reconnect with your “passion for life”.

Turquoise brings a feeling of wholeness.

Carry it in a pocket.

A new relationship is coming into play; however, your “deservability” is in question.

You can have the magic of love in your life if you think you deserve it, or you can sabotage it and go without if you think you can’t have it.

Black Tourmaline is a powerful purifier and cleanser.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Love yourself as much as you can to attract the best of the best in all that life has to offer. Identify and release any beliefs that limit your success, and fill your mind with positive affirmations. Be aware of how limiting you can be for yourself. If you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.

Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

A beautiful surprise awaits. Enjoy a blissful period in relationships, as new friends emerge.

These people will help you to show your talents and feel accomplished. New career opportunities are entering the picture midmonth.

Clear Quartz is wonderful at amplifying positive energy.

Your focus lately has been inward. Don’t be worried if you have not felt involved lately; life has a funny way of unfolding opportunities.

You needed to regather yourself. Make a list of your strengths and watch them fulfil you.

Turquoise has a confidence boosting effect.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

You have outgrown some old beliefs so instead of feeling comforted by your beliefs, you’ll be feeling trapped in them. Sit quietly and debate your beliefs. This will encourage and manifest change. Replace negative thought patterns with uplifting, positive ones.

Danburite connects us to our higher consciousness.

You will soon be free to make your own decisions, without the pressure from another person. Work opportunities are opening up to you since you gave yourself permission to achieve, and now you will be rewarded for something you love to do.

Aventurine is a wonderful crystal for personal change and growth.

Now is a good time to debate your beliefs in life. These rules by which you have lived life have given security and stability, but lately you have been left feeling trapped and contained by these beliefs. The new you will not be held back.

Azeztulite shows us alternate realities.

Coffs Coast focus 63

Luxury apartments for over 55s

marion grove feature

64 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

Luxury apartments for over 55s

Marian Grove has just extended and you should seriously have a look at their new luxury apartments for independent living, that are nearly finished, for over 55s! We chatted with Michelle Oxley, the Relationship Manager from Marian Grove and Sawtell Catholic Care, to find out more ...

M

ichelle, can you tell us about these new independent living luxury apartments and why you think these will prove to be very popular?

I’d love to! Introducing the Marian Grove “New Release” - an over 55s development that offers people who’ve worked hard an opportunity to enjoy the finer things in life: a no-stress lifestyle in their very own piece of paradise.

Ideally located on the gorgeous Mid North Coast of NSW and designed with luxury in mind, our Marian Grove apartments provide residents with the chance to create the lifestyle they always dreamed of.

Just a few minutes from some of the region’s most stunning beaches, boutique stores, cafés and all the essential services, people can be a part of a welcoming community, spending their days exploring or wining and dining locally, without having to

go too far from home. In addition, for the golf enthusiasts, not one, but three courses - Bonville, Sawtell and Coffs Harbour - are located within ten to fifteen minutes’ drive from the village.

Each one of the apartments is designed to be unparalleled in comfort and functionality, without sacrificing indulgence.

This includes open plan design with quality finishes throughout and all the latest modern conveniences at their fingertips.

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Luxury apartments for over 55s

Tell us about how close they are situated to all the essentials like shops, cafés and restaurants, the hospital and the beautiful beaches and waterways.

At Marian Grove Village you are surrounded by valleys and hinterland to the west, including the scenic Bellingen Valley, the Promised Land and Dorrigo National Park, yet just five minutes away are the unspoiled and pristine beaches that Sawtell and the Coffs Coast are known for. Just down the road you’ll find the gorgeous main street of Sawtell, offering a range of boutique stores, charming cafés, the iconic Sawtell Cinema

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JUST DOWN THE ROAD YOU’LL FIND THE GORGEOUS MAIN STREET OF SAWTELL, OFFERING A RANGE OF BOUTIQUE STORES, CHARMING CAFÉS, THE ICONIC SAWTELL CINEMA AND THOSE BEAUTIFUL BEACHES.

and those beautiful beaches.

There is a major shopping centre within five minutes’ drive, as well as the larger regional hub of Coffs Harbour only 15 minutes away. Access to doctors, services, Coffs Harbour Health Campus (hospital) and Coffs Harbour Regional Airport are all within 10 minutes by car. If you choose, you can even leave the car at home, as the local bus stop is only a five

minute walk away.

Tell us about the apartments, their quality and unique finishes.

The apartments were designed by local architects Casa Koala, and the building contractor is Hutchinson Builders. Established in 1912, Hutchinson’s are a highly regarded national contractor in fact, they are Australia’s largest privately owned construction company. Originally

from Brisbane, they now have 20 offices throughout Australia.

There are 51 luxury apartments in the build, consisting of modern, contemporary one, two and three bedroom options. Apart from the one bedroom spaces, all the others have two bathrooms - one main bathroom and an ensuite. They will offer quality fixtures and fittings throughout, including reverse cycle ducted air conditioning and ceiling fans, LED downlights, solar hot water system (with a gas boost), Bosch appliances in the kitchens (cooktop, oven, rangehood and dishwasher) as well as stone benchtops and

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Luxury apartments for over 55s

glass splashbacks. There is the choice of two neutral colour schemes: “Coastal” or “Hinterland. Full height sliding glass doors lead either to your large patio style balcony or courtyard. There will be lift access to the apartments, along with secure underground parking for all residents, and CCTV security

throughout the building and grounds. A lovely rooftop terrace with BBQ as well as several serene spots around the extensively landscaped grounds and courtyards and a second BBQ area downstairs will allow residents to make the most of the indoor/ outdoor lifestyle of the Coffs Coast.

As if this isn’t enough, the complex will also have a state-of-the-art embedded electricity and NBN network - which means we can offer significant savings to residents on their power bills!

When will these be available to move into?

Completion of the apartments is expected to be in June 2020. The first apartment to be completed will be on display from around December 2019. Keep checking for updates, so that you can be one of the first to make an appointment to view!

COFFS HARBOUR CARPET COURT 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour P 6652 4866

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Luxury apartments for over 55s

Is there a price list and various options to choose from?

There are many options for prospective residents to consider! Our financial model is by way of a Loan Licence agreement, which includes a departure fee. Once you’ve chosen your apartment, the entry price will really depend on the size, style and location of your preference.

Prices range from $395,000 to $800,000, with the average being approximately $590,000. A full price list is available upon enquiry. Deposits of $10,000 are now being taken to reserve your chosen home.

These deposits are fully refundable should you decide later on a different course,

68 Coffs Coast focus

offering you peace of mind, along with the MARIAN GROVE IS A WELLopportunity to ensure KNOWN AND HIGHLY you get first choice and REPUTABLE PART OF SAWTELL don’t miss out on these CATHOLIC CARE, A NOTbeautiful apartments. they can pursue their FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION What are the benefits lives with connection EXPERIENCED IN PROVIDING of living here? and meaning, in an QUALITY RETIREMENT Retirement is one environment that LIVING WITH A FOCUS ON THE of those moments in supports their needs.

INDIVIDUAL. life when our needs Marian Grove has change. We may want grown and evolved to downsize and worry over twenty five years. less about household maintenance and It is a well-known and highly reputable more about recreation and quality of life. part of Sawtell Catholic Care, a not-forMost people instinctively seek somewhere profit organisation experienced in providing

quality retirement living with a focus on the individual. Set within 27 acres of landscaped, award winning gardens surrounded by a bushland sanctuary, we have an enviable retirement community lifestyle.

Apart from the external attractions of the location, our residents enjoy a rich and connected social life. Living in Marian Grove means having the company of like-minded neighbours, who will always give you a smile and a “hello” as you pass by. Our logo is

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Luxury apartments for over 55s

“We Care,” and these words have become a part of the fabric of our lives. We watch out for each other, meaning that there is support when it’s needed, friendships grow and develop, and there are opportunities to participate in activities like carpet bowls, table tennis, snooker, mah-jong, exercise class or bingo. You may prefer to take some time out to relax and browse the wonderful selection of large print books, magazines,

paperbacks, DVDs and CDs available in our library. We have an on- site café for that morning coffee, and a chapel where Mass is held weekly. For those who enjoy nature, the “Marian Grove Forest Walk” provides an opportunity for bushwalking through a forest and wetland habitat. Our resident committee volunteers organise bus trips to see shows, or just day trips around this beautiful region. Plans are underway to

develop the former Cockbain’s Nursery site adjacent to our current land. “The Link” will provide a space where residents will be able to get their hands in the dirt, or simply sit back and enjoy the peace and tranquility of their surrounds. You can be as involved in the community, or as independent of it as you choose.

How can I find out more?

You can visit our website at https://www.

scca.net.au/new-release-marian-grove, or follow the progress of the build on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/mariangroveapartments/ If you’d like to speak to me personally, please don’t hesitate to give me a call on (02) 6653 1241. We’ll be happy to supply you with any information you need.

Coffs Coast focus 69

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WITH KERRY MOSS FROM QUADRANT TRAVEL

Quadrant Travel Quadrant Travel and Journeys has a number of Farmers Tour to South America in 2020. We asked our travel writer Kerry Moss to tell us more about the highlights of their Chile and Argentina tour.

The Undurraga vineyard is one of the oldest vineyards in the country, including its underground wine cellars that dates to the 1700s. The Undurragas were early pioneers in Chilean winemaking, planting French varietals and using wood barrels to age the wines and add a rich bouquet and flavor. In 1903, they were first to export wines to the U.S. One of the breathtaking moments of the tour is when we leave Chile and head across the Andes for the Lakes Crossing, with stunning snowcapped peaks and crisp winter air - it’s easy to think you’ve landed in Switzerland instead of Argentina! This is a world-famous trip, with the highlight crossing Alpine Lakes on a catamaran.

No wonder it’s called the “Switzerland of South America”.

After crossing the lakes, we arrive in Bariloche, situated on the foothills of the Andes,

70 Coffs Coast focus

surrounded by picture-perfect lakes and mountains. It is famous for skiing but also great for sight-seeing, water sports, trekking and climbing.

If you’ve ever wondered what it is like to experience the chaos of a livestock market, then a visit to the Liniers Livestock Market will not disappoint. The Mercado de Liniers in the centre of Buenos Aires, Argentina, is claimed to be the largest livestock market in the world. Dating back to 1900, it has capacity for 20,000 head of cattle.

Nothing screams local more than sampling the local cuisine. This tour features some amazing opportunities to sample the best Chilean and Argentinian food and wine, from “pisco sour” to seafood lunches, amazing revolving restaurants, chocolate factories and a spectacular Tango show.

Exploring the Farms of Chile and Argentina is a unique way to get off the tourist trail and immerse yourself into the local’s way of life. If you would like to know more, then drop in to see the team at Quadrant Travel and Journeys in Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour.

JAPAN JAPAN IS BURSTING AT THE SEAMS WITH NATURAL BEAUTY, ENCHANTING CULTURE AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES. It’s the contrasts in Japan that make it so exceptional.

W

ith direct and affordable flights from most international airports in Australia, Japan has become a popular choice for a getaway. On arrival in Japan, you will be impressed by the efficiency; everything runs like clockwork and the trains are something to behold, but what truly impresses you is the people.

Despite living in a country with a population of more than 125 million, there is a calmness amongst the crowds. Shibuya Crossing in central Tokyo, rumoured to be the busiest intersection in the world during its peak time, has up to 3,000 people crossing at one time - and still has a calm order to it.

Everyone knows their place, and Japan has a way of making you feel like you’re the only one!

Wandering the busy streets of Tokyo provides glimpses of an uncharted future.

Surrounded by neon lights and pop culture, people watching in Tokyo takes on a whole new meaning. Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city is also home to fascinating history and many excellent museums and historic temples.

Contrary to popular belief, Tokyo also offers a number of stunning gardens and attractive green spaces within easy reach of the city centre.

Less than an hour by bullet train is the tranquil location of Hakone, where visitors can take a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi-no in the foot hills of Mt Fuji. Get up closer with a trip on the Hakone Ropeway and aerial cable car, with spectacular views of Mt Fuji and Owakudani and where steam can be seen spurting from the volcanic activity.

A few hours further down is the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto, filled with World

Heritage sites, shrines and temples, teahouses and gardens. It is true that you can lose yourself in the streets as you wander and explore the city’s gardens and monuments. Catch a glimpse of a beautiful Geisha on dusk in the Geisha quarter of Gion, made famous in Memoirs of a Geisha.

If military history piques your interest, then a visit to Hiroshima is a must. Well known as the atomic bomb site, Hiroshima has reinvented itself to become a thriving seaside city with stylish atmosphere. A visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum is both sobering and educational.

Japan is a hotbed of geothermal activity, with over 25,000 naturally occurring mineral hot springs. They form part of the daily ritual, with locals bathing in the traditional Japanese Onsen.

Japan has wonderful diverse cuisine. For much of the last decade, Tokyo, the capital of Japan, has held the record for the most Michelin starred restaurants within a city throughout the entire world, beating even Paris. The Japanese are passionate about their food and its presentation. Each plate is presented as an art form with local and seasonal ingredients. Rice and fish form staple ingredients, and yet Australian Wagyu Beef is still highly acclaimed. Japan is rightly famed for its cuisine and gracious hospitality.

A visit to Japan is possible in any season.

The delicate cherry blossoms occur for a limited season in spring, and in autumn Japan is ablaze with colour. Winter, however, is spectacular for all the right reasons. The days are clear and cool, with snow falling regularly across the country. Japan has a credible reputation on the world ski slope stage, where travellers come from across the globe to experience world class skiing; so, if you’re looking for a winter getaway in the middle of our Australian summer, then Japan is both fascinating and intriguing.

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W I T H B D C P R I N C I PA L N I C K J O H N S TO N E

Choosing the right school for your child

The end of the year is fast approaching, and you have been thinking about your child’s education. Perhaps you are a new parent and are starting to think about the enrolment processes, or you have children at another school but you are not confident that your child’s potential is being realised.

T

his is one of a parent’s most difficult choices, to find the right school for their children.

The 2019 “What parents want” school choice survey was completed recently, with a number of key findings for parents and for schools.

The survey expressed that parents have become savvy education consumers who have online access to more comparative local school information than ever before. It noted that parental expectations from their schools are rising.

As a principal, I find the survey to be encouraging. Parents want a wellbeing focus for their children and then want them prepared for a constantly changing world of work.

The data showed that the most influential sources of information for parents about schools are family, friends and colleagues.

The main reason for this is obviously centred around trust. I, however, encourage parents (and children) to visit the school at either principal’s tours or school open days. As a parent, you wish to meet the principal, classroom teachers and students when you visit a school. You want to see, feel and hear the culture of the school, and this can’t be achieved by word of mouth or by the school’s website.

The survey listed the top 10 reasons why parents choose their school.

1. Preparation for the student to fulfil potential in later life - is the school focused on building future-ready life and employment skills?

2. The high quality of teachers does the school have a high quality of communication, dress standards, reliability and professionalism? Are they helpful and friendly? Do they go above and beyond?

3. School seemed right for child’s individual needs - are there specialised programs for learners, school tours, sporting and performing arts opportunities, outdoor education options?

4. Good discipline - will my child be safe?

Will my child develop resilience, empathy and self-respect?

5. Teaching methods/philosophy - does the school follow best practice teaching methods? Are they innovative?

6. Encouragement of responsible attitude to school work - does the school focus on positive learning habits?

7. The reputation of the school - does the school have a forward-thinking reputation?

Does the school have positive results or outcomes in the areas you value? Would you be proud to send your children to the school?

8. Emphasis placed by the school on developing a student’s sense of community responsibility - is the school active in the community? Is there a focus on building inclusive attitudes? Is the school involved in service-learning projects?

9. Range of subjects offered - does the school offer specialist teachers in specialist roles? Does the school offer a wide range of subjects in all learning areas? Does the school have other pathways to support your child?

10. Size of school - does the school have facilities and resources to meet your child’s needs? Does the school take the time to know your child?

You may not know the answer to all of these questions when making your choice and if that is the case, I encourage you to speak with the school principal. It is an important decision.

Source: 2019 What parents want. An Independent Schools Queensland report.

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focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

Bridgette

Vartiainen

Lalaland Moonee

T

ell us a little about yourself, Bridgette.

Let’s go back 10 years, when I really feel like my life began. I separated from my kids’ father and got the chance to find out who I really was, and that person is a little bit crazy and a lot of spontaneous. My life has been all about raising my kids, who are now amazing little teens and taking all the opportunities that felt right for me, without feeling any fear of failure.

You’re the owner of Lalaland at Moonee Beach; why did you start this business?

I had been living in Sydney for a year and was looking into opening another Red Sparrow tea shop there, but I just wasn’t feeling the vibe. I did miss Coffs Harbour and after talking to Moonee Market about the possibility of opening a children’s playground, it kind of just happened in a whirlwind of excitement.

As the owner of Red Sparrow Tea Company as well, how have you juggled both ventures?

These past six months things have really fallen into place for me. I have trustworthy, reliable and efficient staff in place, and I just flutter between both businesses and do whatever needs doing that day. I nearly closed the tea shop not long after opening Lalaland, because I felt overwhelmed about all the things I could be doing with both businesses and thought it would be easier if I gave my energy to one. Instead, I got back into my fitness and suddenly I had an abundance of energy and 72 Coffs Coast focus

my days became so much more productive and exciting.

What inspires you about your work each day?

I feel like I get to wake up every day and just be me. I love being able to think with my head in the clouds and having no negativity around me to burst my bubble.

When launching this new venture 19 months ago, what tactics did you use to get the word out and build the customer base?

I feel like people who already knew me through Red Sparrow were already paying attention. I started social media accounts and would do progress sneak peeks on social media as the playground was being erected.

This helped to build the excitement before opening, and it’s been great ever since.

How do you personally define business success?

People have asked me why don’t I franchise my businesses, but I’m honestly not motivated by money (I wish I was; I’d be loaded!), nor by having some big enterprise. Success to me sounds like you made it to where you set yourself to be in your career or business.

I didn't actually plan for any of this; it just happened. I don’t feel defined by my tea business or my playground; I’m just being me, and I feel my life is just getting started.

My mind is always thinking up crazy ideas, and I have to stop myself from starting up other businesses. Luckily, the tea shop has lots of shiny new things coming in all the time to

In the beginning when I was at the markets with Red Sparrow Tea and I had a crappy day,

keep me interested. can make or break your All business owners business, so ensuring instead of thinking, ‘I have challenges from you have that under wasted my day standing time to time. What did control will determine here for two customers’, I you experience, and your success. And of would instead think, ‘I could have how did you overcome course, if you don’t have gained two lifetime customers it? happy customers, you today that I never would have had’.

I justify everything probably don’t have a that happens to please good business or at least myself, and I always find won’t have a business a way to turn things for very long! Learn to into a positive. For example, in the beginning understand what their needs are and deliver on when I was at the markets with Red Sparrow those expectations.

Tea and I had a crappy day, instead of thinking, Fast track five years, what do you hope to “I wasted my day standing here for two have achieved? customers:, I would instead think, “I could Right now, I am loving the challenges that have gained two lifetime customers today that Lalaland brings to my life. I am constantly I never would have had”. coming up with ideas and collaborating with When I was doing casual leasing whilst other businesses to keep things exciting. recently living in Sydney, I had someone Watch this space too, because I am currently approach me and say that he had been an working on something BIG that I know will be online customer since purchasing from me at very well received.

Harbourside Markets in Coffs Harbour.

As for five years’ time, my kids will be adults What do you look for in an employee? living their own lives, so I plan to be a bit less I’m not one for telling people what to do hands on and perhaps travelling around the every day, so I appreciate someone that knows world, visiting tea plantations of course! there is always something to do, and they just If you could offer any piece of advice to get the job done. You are a shining star in any budding business owner, what would my eyes if you bring me a problem with the it be?

Always speak positively about your business solution. I also don’t mind someone that can and other businesses. Network, network, give me honest criticism. network … meet as many people as you What do you think are the critical success possibly can. You want people to think of you factors to a thriving business? when it comes to whatever you are selling.

Definitely staying on top of your cashflow Thanks Bridgette. game and happy customers. Good cashflow

Why we service Air Cons!

Many new cars are now equipped with air conditioning.

Most people rely heavily on this feature every day during the hot summer months, though of late you may not have needed it as much as you would’ve liked. Generally, air conditioning units are reliable and are subject to few problems.

However, that doesn’t mean that there will never be problems, or that there won’t come a time when your automobile’s air conditioning system requires some sort of service.

The air conditioning systems used inside most cars are very complex and are made up of a system of interconnected components. Because of this complexity, it can be quite costly to have it repaired.

More often than not, it is easier and less expensive to repair a car’s air conditioning system at the first sign of trouble, rather than ignoring the problem and allowing it to degenerate into a much more costly repair later on.

It is much better to bring your vehicle us and to have the problem diagnosed by professionals.

If you want to ensure that your vehicle’s air conditioning system is as safe and efficient as you’d like it to be, make sure you have it serviced regularly. Take advantage of our free system test and quote.

Accountants Expanding Barry Hockey Accountants is excited to announce opening a new office (next door to our existing location) at Suite 1, 29 Orlando Street (cnr Mildura and Orlando streets).

BHA Advisors in conjunction with Wisdom Wealth Services, will now cater for broader financial advice needs such as financial planning, protection insurance, retirement planning, superannuation and wealth accumulation.

I also introduce Jas Atwal, senior financial planner of Wisdom Wealth Services. Jas can be contact direct on 5606 1500 or mobile 0478 066 950. Jas will be working with us to assist with financial advice needs.

The new premises are ground floor location and comply with the new building codes for disabled access and convenience.

Tax Time Deadline is looming fast - 31st October.

It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. If you prepare your own tax return, then you need to complete and lodge your tax return by 31st October. If you have not been to a tax agent before and would like your return completed by a professional, then you need to see them prior to 31st October. You should ensure that your tax professional is a registered tax agent.

Come visit us at our new premises soon.

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Community Care Options The Support Worker role is the most crucial role within our organisation. Our Support Workers are the face of our organisation and are the single most critical aspect of our service delivery and our reputation. It is the relationships clients develop with our Support Workers that determines a client’s overall satisfaction with our service and our organisation. Our Support Workers play an essential role in the management of clients’ well being, their interactions with the community and ultimately, their ability to maintain their independence and remain living independently. Our roles vary every day depending on our clients’ needs, but a typical day may include personal care support, domestic assistance, respite, transport support, meal preparation, and social engagement.

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Due to the diverse client group we support, it is essential our Support Workers represent a broad cross section of our community.

Therefore, it is also necessary for our team to have a broad skill set and an ability to work with all sorts of people. Our staff come from all walks of life, and there is no real formula to determine a perfect fit. If you have genuine empathy and compassion for others, a good work ethic, ability to problem solve, and ability to manage change, you will succeed in this role.

CCO is actively recruiting Support Workers to join our dedicated team in order to service our ever growing client base.

For more information on our upcoming recruitment rounds, contact our friendly team today.

McDonald’s Senior’s Morning Tea Program McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca Restaurants HAVE BEEN SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL SENIORS through our McDonald’s Senior’s Morning Tea Program.

W

e are proud to support the local community through community service initiatives.

Each week we invite residents from local nursing homes and retirement villages for a complimentary morning tea at our McCafé.

We provide the guests with a complimentary coffee or tea and an ice cream.

Our staff enjoy welcoming our senior members of the local community to our restaurants and are happy to have a little chat.

The community buses fill up pretty quickly, so we sometimes have to do an extra trip each month, so no one misses out.

If you would like to join us for a Seniors Morning Tea, please contact our marketing manager, Susan Roulstone: susan.roulstone. mcd@outlook.com for more details.

Here are some comments from some of our guests: “Many thanks for providing a wonderful

morning tea at Nambucca for our residents from Riverside Gardens Aged Care.

“I must make a special mention for the warm, friendly, polite and welcoming service.”

Jennie Todhunter, Recreational Activities Officer, Riverside Garden Cottages.

“Every month we are being provided with a complimentary morning tea at the Coffs Harbour South McDonald’s, which has been very gratefully received. It is one of our residents’ most popular activities.”

Cherie Howard, Leisure and Lifestyle Coordinator, Coffs Haven.

“The residents at Freedom Aged Care in Taloumbi Rd enjoy an outing each last Thursday of the month, to McDonald’s North Coffs.

“The residents are greeted by the helpful staff, and orders are taken at our table. Our coffee, tea and treats are delivered to our table, and the residents enjoy being treated so well and made to feel so welcome.

“We look forward to our visits to McDonald’s each month.”

Gavin Hardwood, Care of the Aged.

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Mega Watt Power Celebrating ating our

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BUY • SELL • BUILD - A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE

B LU E R I B B O N Homes Blue Ribbon Homes is a locally owned company that has been building homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 30 years. We are proud to boast a reputation of honest and reliable service to our clients, built with hard work and dedication.

Design Flexibility At Blue Ribbon Homes we pride ourselves on offering our clients unique custom designed homes that will cost you no more than building from our extensive range of standard floor plans. You may already have some plans drawn up, or maybe even just a sketch; either way, we are more than happy to quote on your plans and help develop your ideas.

Free Site Inspection We can arrange a free pre-purchase site inspection of your land, providing you with the right advice to help with your land purchasing and building options. After discussing the requirements of your new home, we will develop your unique concept

plan. You’ll then be provided with a full and comprehensive itemised quote; you’ll see exactly what we have included in the price, which means there’ll be absolutely no hidden extras.

Challenging Site?

No worries! Challenging sites are our speciality.

We can achieve the desired outcome for our clients at an affordable price. If it fits your land, lifestyle and budget, rest assured, we can build it for you.

Stress Free Building Some people consider building a new home to be stressful, but at Blue Ribbon Homes we make it easy and enjoyable, as it should be!

Our experience and skills will give you the confidence to know you’re in great hands, leaving you free to enjoy the exciting experience of building your new home.

At Blue Ribbon Homes we can make your dream home a reality! Call us today for a chat on (02) 6651 8144.

NRMA Mid North Coast Come in and meet the team of insurance experts at NRMA Mid North Coast. You will be able to speak to an insurance professional face to face about your personal insurance needs.

Conveniently located at Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Macksville and Kempsey, you can be assured they understand local issues that are important to you.

The Mid North Coast boasts a great lifestyle, attracting many people to the region. With the warmer months now here, 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 from fire, storm, impact and theft or attempted theft. Whether you own your home or rent, there is a policy that we can tailor to your circumstances and protect what

is important to you.

Conservation is something we know is important to our customers, and we are fortunate to have koala populations scattered along the Mid North Coast seaboard.

Our favourite marsupial is under threat.

Cuteness alone is not enough to save them.

Deforestation, bushfires and climate change are all contributing to the loss of koala habitat. To ensure the future of koalas, for the rest of this year, NRMA pledged to plant a tree for every new home insurance policy, proudly partnering with the amazing people at Conservation Volunteers Australia.

Every home is worth protecting. Protect your home or contents by visiting our teams at NRMA Mid North Coast, and you’ll be helping to protect our koala populations at the same time.

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 Nambucca Heads at

6568 5477

Shop 8, 38-40, Bowra Street NRMA Macksville at

6568 3515

Shop 2, 6 Cooper Street NRMA Coffs Harbour at

6650 0122

30 Gordon Street NRMA Woolgoolga at

6654 8088

Shop 13, Woolgoolga Plaza, 42 - 44 Beach Street

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.

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BUY • SELL • BUILD - A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE

Hibbards is a well-known and widespread FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS AND THEY KNOW A THING OR TWO ABOUT BUILDING, AFTER BEING IN THE GAME SINCE 1968. WHO BETTER IS THERE TO FIND OUT FROM WHY YOU SHOULD THINK HIBBARDS, than Tamzin, Mike and the team, who are all about making the whole process of building, investing and purchasing your own home simple and easy.

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ibbards is a family owned company with a long history in the building industry. Why do you think this so important?

The passion for the business.

We’re in the business of homeownership.

It’s not about building a home - the home is just the “thing” that offers you the security and the pathway to the dream that you have of being successful enough to own your own home.

We want you to look past that. We want you to have the dream of being successful enough to own a few homes; this can then provide you with income for retirement. It’s a step toward financial freedom.

The belief we have is that owning your own home, and then owning a couple of investment homes with rental income - THIS is what provides you a good retirement. One thing is for sure; you have to get into the market to make a start. Do everything you can to get in the market - take two jobs, reduce your debt etc., work on it. It IS possible, and people are doing it every day.

We know situations can be hard. We know this very well. We see it, but we also see people achieve it - and it is one of the greatest feelings for us, seeing people achieve their dream of home ownership.

Sh*t happens. Life happens. Get back up and go for it again.

You may not be able to see a future of owning investment homes right now. Once you’re in the market, you start creating opportunities for yourself.

It makes buying another home that little bit easier;

WITH OUR HOMES, YOU MOVE IN AND THERE IS NOTHING MORE FOR YOU TO DO. ‘MOVE IN AND COOK A ROAST’ IS ONE OF MY FAVOURITE SAYINGS I HEAR OUR PORT MACQUARIE SALES GUY SAY. EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED IN OUR HOMES.

just keep on keeping on.

What are the advantages of buying new?

Between the Building Code of Australia (BCA), The Housing Industry of Australia (HIA) and Fairtrading, new home buyers are protected better than ever to ensure the longevity of the home and the happiness of the homeowner.

That being said, homes are a manmade product, which is why we have added our Service Department, which assists all current and past clients with any issues they have with their home.

Buying “new” means you have warranties and guarantees on different items throughout your home.

You have certainty. With our homes, you move in, and there is nothing more for you to do. “Move in and cook a roast” is one of my favourite sayings I hear our Port Macquarie sales guy say. Everything is included in our homes. Of course, you will want to do things to it - as any proud home owner does!

How can Hibbards help first time buyers, and what is save2buy?

Our Save2buy program is where we help our clients save time and money, so that they can purchase their own home as soon as possible. Each person has a unique situation. We assess each situation and work on it hand-in-hand with the client. We work to make sure that our client and their future home are both ready at the same time. Get assessed.

It’s obligation free, and it’s the first step you need to

take.

What are the most common questions or concerns that clients have when chatting to you?

This is the biggest decision for a financial purchase they have made in their life so far. It can be quite scary and overwhelming. It’s funny; the one question that is common for nearly all our clients is, “Is this for real?” They honestly feel it should be harder than we make it. Right up until they get the keys, and still when they do get the keys, they’re thinking, “What’s the catch?” (Check out our testimonial vids online - it's great for us to hear about their experience, but it’s even greater for you guys to hear it for yourselves.)

People also ask things like, “What are the repayments?” and, “How much is the deposit?”

The answer to those questions vary with each house and with each person’s individual financial situation.

We can say a dollar figure, but it’s unlikely to be true specifically for you. The question you need to ask is, “What is my affordability?” That’s the important information you need to know.

How can people find out more?

Contact the team in your region. They are ALL amazing! You can go on to our website and fill out a contact form, or call direct on the number for your region.

Hibbards.com.au Coffs Coast focus 79

BUY • SELL • BUILD - A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE

Beds R Us Park Beach HomeBase Tell us about Beds R Us; what are your main products?

We are totally and everything bedroom.

We cater for all tastes and styles and look for unique designs.Each bedroom setting is designed to show what can be done by ranging complementary artwork, lamps and soft furnishings What makes Beds R Us so unique?

Every Beds R Us is locally owned and operates under a low cost licence arrangement, as such each store is totally catering for their local market and customer. There is nothing about our store which is generic or head office designed, but rather developed over time in conjunction with our customers.

The team at Beds R Us focuses on mattress development in conjunction with our

manufacturers Sleepmaker and Sleepyhead. and together we develop Australian made product to tackle the key pain points of today’s consumer - comfort, heat mitigation and support. The exclusive features and benefits we offer in mattress development are a direct result of our group negotiating exclusive technology in our mattresses.

Tell us about your service and after service.

My team and I are totally committed to being customer centric. I think in order to be good at customer service, you have to enjoy the interaction and always be authentic.

We have a great team who always look for the best outcome for our customers.

At the end of the day. it’s the little things that can make the difference.

“Frien d from t ly advice he you k faces now...”

www.parkbeachhomebase.com.au PACIFIC HIGHWAY NORTH, COFFS HARBOUR | Plus 15 lifestyle brands

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OPEN 7 DAYS

Bowden Concrete

A HUSBAND AND WIFE TEAM! Ryan has been working as a concreter since he was able to lift a screed, which let’s just say, is a very long time. His father was a concreter, so you could say it was definitely in his blood and was his destiny.

His wife, Nina, has a background in real estate, and both share a passion for the property and construction world.

After they had their family, they decided the time was right to take that leap into creating another (business) baby … Bowden Concrete!

Both born and raised on the Coffs Coast and having a passion for the beauty and friendly

nature of the area, they work hard at keeping the coast looking good with their work.

Offering a diverse range of specialised services and always delivering the highest standard of workmanship on schedule and on budget is their focus, plus always striving to be the friendliest and cleanest bunch of concreters in the area!

Whether it’s to improve the old or starting fresh, call the team today to discuss your next project, whatever it may be, because these are your guys to talk to about the grey stuff!

focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate

update.

K N OW I N G H OW T O N E G OT I AT E

K

nowing how to negotiate is one of the most important skills you’ll need in the home buying process.

Not all of us are negotiation experts, especially if it’s your first time buying, so it is natural to worry about how to make your best offer. Just

keep a few simple things in mind, and it’ll be smooth sailing.

KNOW YOUR BUDGET Before you enter any price negotiations, you should have a clear idea of how much you can spend. If you don’t have a clear budget, you could commit to spending a lot more than you

can actually afford.

If you are pre-approved for a certain amount, and negotiations push the price above that amount, you’ll know to walk away.

Obtaining pre-approval can also let vendors know that you’re a serious buyer, and they are likely to give your offer stronger consideration.

NEGOTIATION HAS CHANGED As both buyers and sellers become more educated on property value, we now see more full price sales and only slight negotiation. If a buyer sees value in a property, they will purchase it; if they do not, they will tend to just walk away, rather than make cheeky offers.

PRICING Research previous sale prices of other properties that are similar to the one you are looking at, comparing similar attributes such as number of rooms, same age and so on. When gathering as much information as you can, you are more educated on estimated value.

FINDING ADDITIONAL VALUE Further to physical attributes of a property, it is more important than ever to consider the ongoing running costs of the property you are purchasing. With energy costs continually rising, you may consider paying more for a property that has cheaper ongoing running costs. Things to consider include the property’s orientation, crossventilation, solar system, insulation and efficiency of heating and cooling devices. There are 17 liveability features that can increase comfort and reduce the running costs of a home that you can read more about at:

liveability.com.au KNOW THE AREA There are a few things that can increase a property’s value, including: being close to schools, child care facilities, having shops, restaurants and cafés nearby, being within walking distance of public transport, and being close to parks or beach.

NEGOTIATE CONDITIONS You may think that negotiation is just about settling on the best price, but that’s not true. The vendor may get several offers of the same price (or similar), but be inclined towards the one that includes favourable conditions. This could mean a shorter settlement period, or - if there are any repairs or upgrades needed - accepting the house as-is and tackling those yourself.

BE FRIENDLY This is especially true if the property you like is in high demand. Vendors and agents don’t want to deal with aggressive or rude buyers, so if they’re not comfortable with you, they’ll keep negotiating with someone else.

DON’T BE PUT OFF - RE-NEGOTIATING It is not uncommon for things to come up in a pest and building inspection that an agent or seller was unaware of. Depending on how serious the issue is, you may still want to buy the property. It is important to keep communication open, as there are options. The seller may fix the problem as part of the conditions of sale, or they may consider making a price reduction for you to address the issue yourself.

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BUY • SELL • BUILD - A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE

Epoxy f loors

FOCUS spoke with Silvano Kevin De Iuliis, Managing Director of East Coast Epoxy Floors, to find out all the exciting possibilities available with epoxy floors.

H

OW EPOXY FLOORS ARE TRANSFORMING INTERIOR DESIGN Gone are the days when epoxy floors were relegated to hospitals, warehouses, and commercial facilities. Today, epoxy is part of a growing interior design trend, thanks to a surface that isn’t just beautiful - it’s also incredibly durable.

Epoxy flooring is waterproof, seamless, incredibly tough, and it’s customisable in endless ways. It’s no surprise that a growing number of Mid North Coast homes are featuring bright, stunning epoxy in main living areas, as well as garages.

Curious as to what’s really driving the epoxy flooring trend? Here’s why it’s one of the leading new flooring systems chosen by interior designers.

IT FILLS A NICHE Epoxy flooring is the ultimate contemporary flooring system that’s filling a niche for

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homeowners who want something different.

Epoxy floors are stylish, modern, and fun.

They wear better than painted wood, offer vibrant colour, and add personality to any space. Many homeowners who choose epoxy don’t want the upkeep or cost of the hardwood floors their parents loved, or simply want something that lets them show off their personality. Homeowners are also over all of the stains that show up in concrete floors especially in garages. Stains wipe off easily with an epoxy floor.

TRANSFORMS A FLOOR INTO A WORK OF ART Epoxy is one of the most versatile flooring systems available. Some homeowners opt for crisp white, or another for a solid colour, while others prefer geometric shapes or granite or natural stone looks. The combinations are endless.

BRIGHTENS AND OPENS YOUR HOME Epoxy is a completely seamless floor system that’s also very reflective, instantly brightening

Many homeowners who

choose epoxy don’t want any room and making custom colours from the upkeep or cost of the your home seem larger the Australian Standard hardwood floors their and brighter. Thanks to Colour chart. There are parents loved, or simply its seamless nature, it’s flake systems available want something that also great for creating that look like stone lets them show off their smooth transitions finishes, or eye-popping personality. between different rooms. metallic colours that are UNBEATABLE COLOURS reflective and have a Nothing can really mirror finish. compare to epoxy Port Macquarie: Kevin floor coatings when it 0418 224 697. comes to colour options. Homeowners can Coffs Harbour: Peter Emanual 0419 433 040. select from our standard colours or select

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Coffs Coast focus 85

Sawtell Electrical Sawtell Electrical was established in 2012 and is a local, family owned and operated business.

We specialise in all domestic and commercial electrical requirements, including switchboard upgrades, hot water service repairs, stove/oven/cooktop and rangehood installation and repair, smoke alarm installs, testing and compliance, indoor and outdoor lighting, ceiling and exhaust fans ... and so much more. Most importantly, we can respond on the day to urgent matters with our computerised dispatch system.

We constantly analyse and explore ways to improve and maintain our high level of service and pride ourselves on offering our clients a cost-effective solution to their electrical needs. We service 18 real estates, three strata companies, have contracts with government housing, schools and buildings, and are contracted installers for The Good Guys.

The growth of the business validates that we are doing the right thing.

Our employees are our greatest asset, and it’s satisfying to provide them a friendly environment where they enjoy coming to work. It’s equally rewarding to provide a professional and friendly 24/7 service to locals.

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East Coast Cabinets As this month’s edition has a “Buy, Sell, Build” feature, I thought we might hand out some handy hints to consider when thinking of taking on any of these activities.

When thinking of buying a new residence for living in, or as a rental investment, are you wanting something that does not require any improvements? Are you prepared to carry out work yourselves, or will you need professional assistance?

Remember to obtain prices for materials and quotations for repairs etc. prior to committing to the purchase, and be aware of the total cost of your purchase.

For a rental investment, where possible, it is advisable to carry out a makeover prior to putting tenants in place. If cabinetwork is required, select a design that is practical for the type of tenant(s) that you wish to attract and colours and products that are neutral and easy to replace if damage occurs.

Building a new home is a major project for anyone and is often daunting. Take the time to really plan the whole job. Spending months working on plans, materials, colour selections etc. prior to starting can decrease the building time significantly, as the builder can preorder to suit his program.

bentley homes hotm

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Bentley Homes have been building a strong reputation for themselves here on the Coffs Coast - pun intended!

We sat down with one half of the Bentley duo, Ashley Trengove, and asked him all about the team, the process and what they love about providing dream homes for the local community.

Coffs Coast focus 89

focusAbode.

Hi Ash. Bentley Homes has had a busy year so far, can you tell us a bit about what you’ve been up to since we last checked in?

Yes, we have been busy since we last spoke in June last year. Since then we have completed another nine new homes and two renovations.

The lead up to Christmas is going to be a busy one too, with four new homes underway and two renovations to complete.

We also managed to build a new home for ourselves in North Sapphire, which also doubles as the Bentley Homes office and display home. It has been almost three years since we moved out of our last one, and we felt there was a need to showcase

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our work once again and reinforce what we are all about.

Although the home has some standout features, the overall finish of the home is of a mid-range level, which is consistent with what we quote or allow for in our clients’ homes. The PC items such as tiles, taps, doors, vanities and bathroom fittings are all within the range seen in the majority of our builds.

It has been designed with the main living and outdoor areas capturing the northern aspect, even though they are towards the southern boundary of the property. To achieve this, a breezeway was incorporated, and the plan is a u-shape to let in as

focusinterview. focusAbode.

BENTLEY

WE STRONGLY BELIEVE

much natural light as possible. The pool and alfresco areas are in the middle of the house and effectively face north.

It is a unique home on a standard size block and really reflects what a custom designed home is all about. We strongly believe in custom designed houses and that not just any floorplan will suit everyone’s lifestyle or block of land.

We are really happy with the end result and have enjoyed showing many of our current clients through so far.

Our new display home/office is now located at 2 Cherry Street, North Sapphire

IN CUSTOM DESIGNED other members of the Beach Estate. It can be HOUSES AND THAT NOT team and, if so, what viewed by appointment JUST ANY FLOORPLAN roles do they play? or on the following WILL SUIT EVERYONE’S Yes, Nathan and I Saturdays from 10am LIFESTYLE OR BLOCK are brothers-in-law - 2pm leading up until OF LAND. and both of us bring Xmas: October 26th, different strengths November 2nd and and perspectives to 30th, December 7th. the business. I have a We will advise business background, opening times for the in particular accounting. I worked in the New Year via our website, Instagram and building industry as a manager for many Facebook pages. years for both Eastcoast and Austral You run Bentley Homes with your Masonry. I then went on to manage a brother-in-law Nathan; are there any

construction company dealing in disaster repairs and insurance work. These roles gave me insight into the industry, especially liaising with customers and trades people.

I really love the design side of what we do and enjoy working with our clients to create floor plans and solutions for their own custom home.

I’m largely involved in the quoting and contract stage, client selections and basically getting everything in order ready to start on site.

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OUS

HE SS

focusAbode.

Nathan, on the other hand, started his career as an apprentice in 2002 for local builder, Jim White. He then went on to work in both residential and commercial construction in various areas of NSW, QLD and abroad and completed his builders’ licence. This allowed him to gain experience in various project management and supervisory roles.

Nathan is a skilled carpenter and is meticulous when it comes to quality and attention to detail. He knows the building process very well and is our site supervisor.

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NATHAN IS A SKILLED

You’ll often find him has almost completed CARPENTER AND IS on the tools too when his third year and Riley METICULOUS WHEN IT he can in between his second.

COMES TO QUALITY AND organising trades and We both felt strongly ATTENTION TO DETAIL. suppliers. about the idea of having HE KNOWS THE BUILDING We both often a young crew on board PROCESS VERY WELL AND meet with our trades that Nathan could teach IS OUR SITE SUPERVISOR. and clients on site the way he liked things throughout the build to to be done. Both the make sure all is on track boys are doing very well and running smoothly. and are a real asset to Aside from Nathan and I, we employ two our company. They bring a young energy apprentice carpenters, Reece and Riley. Reece to our crew and are learning the very latest

developments in carpentry through their TAFE courses, which we think is important.

Tim Hamilton is another valued member of our team too. He is a qualified builder who has contracted to us over the years and has the same approach to building as Nathan.

He is great with our clients and keeps everything running smoothly if Nathan is on another site. It works really well; if the boys are on separate jobs, we’ll assign an apprentice to each of them. When they are all on the same job, they all work so well together too. It’s a great team!

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BENTLEY

Behind the scenes there are our wives, Ebony and Danielle. They are largely responsible for our social media accounts, bookwork, admin and generally keeping Nathan and I in line. More importantly though, they are great mums to our young families, and we would struggle to do what we do without them.

What is the process like when a client approaches you about a build or renovation?

We specialise in custom built and designed homes and renovations on the Coffs Coast.

With this in mind, each I’LL GO OVER WITH THE client is totally different.

CLIENT WHAT STYLE OF A large number of HOME THEY ENVISAGE, people come to us who the quoting process, WHAT IS IMPORTANT have been through the both parties are on the TO THEM IN THE FLOOR design process with an same page as to what is PLAN/DESIGN AND WHAT architect or building going to be included and IS ON THEIR WISH LIST. designer already, so in allowed for in their home. this situation, once I’ve This is important, as in had a look over the a lot of cases the plans plans and made a site don’t always have all the visit, we’d arrange a meeting to discuss any details, so the input of the client is crucial. number of things to ensure that when I begin If we’re starting from scratch, I’ll meet with

the clients at our office or at their block of land. I’ll go over with the client what style of home they envisage, what is important to them in the floor plan/design and what is on their wish list. We discuss what would work well on their block, taking into consideration the orientation, slope, covenants, easements and any other restrictions that will affect the design.

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Armed with this information, I’ll start putting pen to paper to come up with a draft floor plan, before meeting with the client again. It’s not uncommon for this to take a few meetings to get the design right. For our house at Cherry St, we put together about six or seven differing layouts, as we tried to get the balance just right. I always run my designs past Ebony, as having a different perspective on things always helps. Sometimes, we can’t incorporate everything that a client wishes for; this usually comes down to budget restraints, functionality or building practicability.

Once the floor plan and other details are sorted, we can get down to the nitty gritty of

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preparing the quote. One benefit of preparing the plans with us, is that I’m always conscious of the budget we’re working with, so come quote time there are no surprises. The same can’t always be said when working with plans provided by architects or others. When we quote a home, we fully cost it; we don’t work off a “square metre rate”, so it is quite a big job. For the customer, this also means that things are more transparent.

Everything going to plan, we win the job and start on the contract and approval stages.

Clients, generally, will need a comprehensive quote, at least for finance approval, so the duration from quote acceptance to contract is

ONE BENEFIT OF PREPARING THE PLANS WITH US, IS THAT I’M ALWAYS CONSCIOUS OF THE BUDGET WE’RE WORKING WITH, SO COME QUOTE TIME THERE ARE NO SURPRISES.

usually determined by their financier’s timeframe. Council approval (from recent transactions) is around five weeks. Once the development is approved and certified, we like to make a start as soon as we can, so in most cases we are in to the build a couple of weeks after the Council approval.

Renovations follow a very similar course; some come with plans completed, others like

our input, so once again the process is ideas, plans, quote, approval and start.

What part of the process do you most enjoy and why?

As I mentioned earlier, I really enjoy the design process and turning people’s ideas into a floor plan they love, then being able to watch it physically come to life is pretty cool.

It’s always great to see our clients’ enthusiasm throughout various stages when we meet on site and check out the progress.

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Nothing beats seeing their dream become a reality, then being able to hand them the keys is always a rewarding day.

Meeting new people and building relationships with our clients is also enjoyable.

Over the course of a build we do spend a lot of time together, and our clients are more like friends by the end of the build.

What sorts of trends have you been seeing recently in home design?

Over the last year or so, the popularity of using a mixture of materials, both internally and externally has continued. Natural elements of timber and stone never seem to go out

MEETING NEW PEOPLE AND BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR CLIENTS IS ALSO ENJOYABLE. OVER THE COURSE OF A BUILD WE DO SPEND A LOT OF TIME TOGETHER, AND OUR CLIENTS ARE MORE LIKE FRIENDS BY THE END OF THE BUILD.

of fashion and look at home either inside or out.

Combining these with various cladding styles or brickwork makes for an interesting and inviting facade. Depending on the quantities and ratios of elements used, you can create anything from Coastal and Hamptons looks to Mid Century Modern and Industrial styles.

Internally, burnished concrete floors or concrete look tiles are what a lot of people

tend to go for, paired with a monochrome colour palette with hints of timber or cladded feature walls for texture.

We generally design large kitchens with walk in pantries, where appliances used day to day can be kept out of sight and plugged in ready for use; many have an additional sink.

These areas are located as close as possible to alfresco areas, where we can really take

advantage of the great climate we have here on the Coffs Coast. I always try to have a generous undercover alfresco area in our designs to capitalise on this.

Built in cabinetry and study nooks incorporated in kitchen and living areas are also on many people's wish lists.

We encourage our clients to inject their style into the exterior and interior of their homes, which results in homes that are on-trend and a real stand-out. We are often using new products and trying different ways of doing things, which is exciting.

COFFS HARBOUR CARPET COURT 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour P 6652 4866

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BENTLEY

You work alongside many other trades and suppliers here on the Coffs Coast and seem to have a great working relationship with many of them. Why is this important to you?

The local trades and suppliers we deal with are vital to us, as they are a reflection of us and our business. They play a huge role in achieving the end results we aim for within a suitable time frame. We engage them based on their quality of work, efficiency and ability to liaise professionally with our clients when they are on site or in store.

They are people/teams we know we can trust and they always deliver. We have a

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BUILDING A NEW HOME IS A HUGE TASK AND BY HAVING THE RIGHT TRADES AND SUPPLIERS ON BOARD, IT CERTAINLY MAKES OUR JOB SO MUCH EASIER AND REASSURES OUR CLIENTS.

mutual respect; they look after us, and in turn we look after them. The majority of them have been with us from the start and are in tune with our approach to building.

Building a new home is a huge task and by having the right trades and suppliers on board, it certainly makes our job so much easier and reassures our clients.

What are some common challenges you have to face as a building company?

The ever-growing number of television

shows, Instagram accounts and other media focused on home building and renovating often presents us with many challenges as a builder. People are design savvy these days and have never been more in-tune with what they want in a home; this is great, as it can give clear direction to the build. Sometimes though, this can lead to issues. Most houses that are featured in magazines or on TV shows are usually there for a reason; that is, they are unique or have unique features - this

generally equates to being quite expensive.

Cutting back and making decisions on what is truly important can be very difficult at times. That’s where we try to provide our clients with different options and ideas to help them still achieve as close as they can to their dream home, but within the budget they have.

Another challenge we are often faced with is when a client presents us with a finished set of plans that is excessively over their budget either by the way it’s designed or the sheer size of the home. It often involves them going back to the drawing board, which can be a costly and time-consuming process. I

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would always suggest speaking to at least one builder prior to speaking with your preferred architect or building designer, and then keeping that channel open through the design phase.

What advice would you give to people considering building or renovating?

We would suggest that you always speak with a builder and not just a salesperson before signing a contract. Throughout the process of building a Bentley Homes home, you will speak with Nathan and myself always, from start to finish. We are the ones who will answer any questions, meet you on site and work on your home.

If you plan on designing your home, we would suggest you speak with at least one builder prior to meeting with your architect or building designer. This can help avoid going over budget from the beginning and the dilemma of having a set of plans you can’t afford.

Consider your budget. This may involve making decisions on what design aspects you value the most. Raked ceilings, exposed beams, polished concrete, timber vanities and large bi-fold doors may be on your wishlist, but take into consideration they all come at a cost. More often than not, you may need to compromise.

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IN THE END, DESIGN ALONE CAN DETERMINE THE RUNNING COSTS OF YOUR HOME AND WHETHER IT IS A COMFORTABLE PLACE TO LIVE.

Obviously, the size of the home will largely determine the cost too. Not all floor plans you look at will be affordable or fit on your block. You also want to avoid over capitalising, so do your research on your area and make sure you are investing wisely.

Consider your site. Not all plans will suit your block in terms of orientation, size and shape, view potential, soil structure,

covenants and surrounding homes. In the end, design alone can determine the running costs of your home and whether it is a comfortable place to live. This is why we feel so passionately about custom design.

Understand and ask questions about your quote. Many people make the mistake at looking at the end figure, but are you comparing apples for apples? Not all builders’ quotes are comparable on face value. It is the allowances and what is included in the quote that is of importance.

Proud to be associated with Bentley Homes

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TO DATE, THE MAJORITY OF OUR WORK IS THROUGH WORD OF MOUTH. WE VALUE OUR CLIENTS AND BUILD RELATIONSHIPS WITH THEM THROUGHOUT THE DESIGN AND BUILDING PROCESS.

We put a lot of effort into providing quotes that are extremely detailed and comprehensive and spend a great amount of time with our clients going through what is included, so they know exactly what they are getting.

Above all, do some research on your builder.

Have a look through some of the homes they have built or are building. Speak to previous clients

about their experience.

To date, the majority of our work is through word of mouth. We value our clients and build relationships with them throughout the design and building process. We would like to think that they would have no hesitation building with us again or recommending us to their friends and family.

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BENTLEY

What can people expect from a Bentley Homes home?

From a builder’s perspective, we don’t believe in cutting costs or corners. People can expect a quality home built with integrity and attention to detail. All of our homes are built with a termite treated, solid 90 mm frame. We use a hell of a lot of timber in our houses; internal and external wall frames have studs at 450 mm centres, truss spacings are 600 mm. All internal wall frames are straightened and planed to give plumb and flat walls. Our ceilings are fixed to battens, not fixed directly to the trusses, which helps to prevent cracking and gives a

Proudly supplying Lighting and Electrical to

Bentley Homes Cetnaj Coffs Harbour 151 Orlando Street Ph: 6691 6100

COFFS HARBOUR

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flatter surface. We include everything that is required to meet the site relevant BASIX and bushfire regulations (insulation, water tank and pump, specific glazing, gutter guard, window screens, etc.) so there are no extras in that regard.

We use and trust quality trade brands like CSR Gyprock plasterboard, Hume Doors, Lockwood, James Hardie and Scyon and Haymes paint for peace of mind and ours.

Our allowances for PC items such as tiles, taps, vanities, appliances, bathroom fittings, floor coverings etc. are quite generous.

These will afford you a large cross section of selections, where you have the flexibility to

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choose where you get them from. We aren’t locked in with any particular suppliers, so the choice is really yours. We are open to using new or different products and will even help you research these and give you a builder’s perspective.

We are custom home builders, so you can expect a unique house plan that differs from surrounding homes. We try to maximise natural light, cross breezes and living areas.

We are often asked if we have a set of “standard plans” available, and the short answer is “no”. I don’t think I’ve ever come across somebody who has seen a pre drawn floor plan and said, “That is exactly what

I have been looking for”; there is always something that doesn’t quite suit.

It is our firm belief that a well-considered design is what makes a home great, and it should reflect your personality and style.

After all, your home is one of your largest and most important investments. We’d love to be part of it.

Ashley 0428 806 335 e. ashley@bentleyhomes.net.au w. www.bentleyhomes.net.au Display: 2 Cherry St, Sapphire.

Open 10am - 2pm, 26th Oct, 2nd Nov, 30th Nov, 7th Dec.

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FOCUS HAD A CHAT WITH PETER BULANYI, OWNER OF MEGA WATT POWER. HERE IS WHAT HE HAD TO SAY ...

An innovation leader in the Australian solar industry

C

an you tell us a little bit about your team’s background and experience in this industry?

Mega Watt Power is an innovation leader in the Australian solar industry. Our team consists of around 30 staff in a number of areas. We have a sales team, local technical team, FIFO solar farm team and of course, the admin team. Our local technical team consists of engineers, electricians and technicians who provide our customers with the design, installation and maintenance capability that is fundamental to a great solar power business.

On the face of it, solar power seems simple enough, but behind the scenes, there is an incredible amount going on. Selecting the right manufacturers, designing the most efficient and reliable systems, installing them with care and pride, monitoring their long term performance, repairing when necessary - all these things we do to the highest possible level, and we don’t leave it to chance.

We are interested in the science of what we do with solar power, and that means we invest in people who are passionate about ensuring we deliver our energy and cost saving promises. Our service technicians at our 15 Isles Drive workshop are career electronics engineers working down to the component level inside inverters. They receive inverters locally and Australia wide, repair them, and put them back into service. This is a unique capability and it is extremely important to us, as we don’t believe in the throw away society, and never have.

Our technicians (including myself) have

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WE ARE INTERESTED IN THE SCIENCE OF WHAT WE DO WITH SOLAR POWER, AND THAT MEANS WE INVEST IN PEOPLE WHO ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT ENSURING WE DELIVER OUR ENERGY AND COST SAVING PROMISES.

contributed over the past 30 years to the repair of around 10,000 inverters.

That’s enough to fill twenty 40 ft sea-containers of e-waste not going to landfill, by providing them with a second life.

We can’t repair every inverter, but we can try, and we do our best to save people money and prevent wasting the precious resources that were consumed in the manufacture of the inverter.

What makes Mega Watt Power different from other companies in the local area?

Firstly, our depth of knowledge and experience is unique not just in the local area, but in Australia. Funny thing is that many of our competitors even rely on us for technical support. We don’t mind helping to an extent, as we are known as a friendly business, but more importantly, it is our vertical integration that makes us entirely unique.

In plain language, solar power is a technical enterprise; there is no guess work in good solar outcomes. We don’t rely on others to determine what our market offer should be; rather, we work it out from the source knowledge what the best mix of efficiency, reliability, quality, cost performance and commercial reality is ... and then we support our decisions with technical horsepower and resources that no other local company has.

Secondly, we really are a friendly business.

We choose not to pursue aggressive, marketing based “push” sales. Quite the opposite; we

prefer the gentle approach with sales, in which we describe our offer, work with the customer’s needs, and allow the customer the air to breathe so that they can make the choice that is right for them. This has always been our method, and always will be.

We know that around 90% of the solar power installations in the district are not done by local owned and operated companies like ours, which is a real shame, so it is extremely important that we turn that around, whilst remaining 100% true to our values.

Tell us about the products you carry and their benefits?

All our products are selected on the basis of the manufacturer’s corporate bankability and governance, their technical performance, their value and most importantly, their reliability. It’s a difficult set of benchmarks; however, if anyone is well placed to choose the best market offer, it is us.

Thirty years in the solar business must be some kind of record, and whilst I do believe that the universe has been kind to our business, we have moved mountains to get to here.

Our Solis grid connect inverters are manufactured in China mostly, with Japanese, USA, and European electronic components. They sit in the middle of the price point, but offer the highest value. Since changing to this brand around five years ago, we have had less than 10 units fail. The reliability is extreme, and that is critical.

Our Hybrid Battery offer is Tesla PowerWall2.

The first PowerWall1 did not impress us at all, and we stayed well away. When the PowerWall2 was released, with twice the performance at half the price, a compact design, brilliant app, we decided to run with it … and I’m very glad we did.

Tell us about you community involvement.

Our community involvement is very important to us. We take our social responsibility seriously.

In the first instance, we have trained 16 local electronics technicians and electrical apprentices.

This is a story in itself.

We have donated our time and products to many local, national and international causes.

We tend not to publicise what we do, because we always felt these things should be done from the heart and not leveraged for commercial gain; however, now that we know around 90% of the local installs are not performed by locally owned and operated companies, we realise that we do need to speak about our gifts and sponsorships in the local community and to show people that buying from us has additional value beyond the written quote.

What are your plans for the future of Mega Watt Power?

The future for Mega Watt Power is to remain at the technical forefront of solar power with investment in new performance measuring technologies, to learn to speak loudly and proudly about our capabilities and our community involvement, but most of all to never change our core value, which is to care about our customers' best interests and to remain passionate about the work that we do.

Thanks Peter.

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Book a Tour today

Care, just the way you want it Maybe your garden and the upkeep of a big family home is getting a bit much to handle? Perhaps you’ve had a recent fall or too tired to cook a healthy meal?

Whatever the reason you can continue to live your way and around your own timetable. You’ll be part of a welcoming community knowing you have the security of having 24/7 care and support available when you need it, all from the privacy and security of your own spacious one or two bedroom home.

Couples are able to stay together

Delicious & healthy meals served daily

Pets are welcome*

No means or asset testing required to move in

Book a Tour today. Call 02 6690 2100 or visit aveo.com.au/freedom *Subject to management approval.

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92 Taloumbi Road, Coffs Harbour