Coffs Coast Focus - i123 by Focus

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123 APRIL 2021

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Enrolments open across all centres Call 1300 956 200 to book a tour

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Beatties

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Quality Furniture

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday closed Sunday 9am-12pm Cnr Pioneer St & Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484

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t Welcome to the APRIL EDITION.

ainfall records for March have been smashed, in some cases by up to 200 millimetres, on the Mid North Coast. The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) had evacuated about 15,000 people from their homes on the Mid North Coast. Families without a home. Last week we had a rental accommodation crisis/shortage in our region with demand from people wanting to escape the city. Stock at an all time low. And massive waiting and application queues. Now with hundreds of people displaced by flooding throughout our region, our community needs to start thinking about how we are going to deal with this. If you have any suggestions, reach out to us. We would love to hear your ideas. Well done to our local and regional SES team for risking their lives to keep us safe. We would also like to thank Dean Evers and the team at St Vincent De Paul for providing shelter, warmth and food for those in need.

On the Cover We were lucky enough to sit down with legendary Australian actor Jack Thompson to chat about and share some of the stories that have brought him to where he is today. Jack has been one of the major figures in Australian cinema and has helped to shape the industry here over his long career. SWIFF 2021 Last year the Coffs Coast became home of the most popular film festival in regional Australia, with the 16-day Screenwave International Film Festival notching another record year for attendance. SWIFF’21, presented again by tailor-made furniture company Ashton Designs, will host 65 different feature films and a record 120 different sessions to experiences from April 14-29. We break down the huge festival lineup to see the highlights of the Coffs Coast’s annual movie marathon. Inside this edition Carolynn Worthing has worked in nursing

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Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE 02 6650 9343 WEB www.focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

for 42 years, and the Coffs Coast has been lucky enough to have her here as the Nursing Unit Manager of the Emergency Department at Coffs Harbour Health Campus for the past 10 years! Chris Rowthorne and AJ Gilbert from the SCU Marlins joined us for an interview. Competitive Strength Sports are both mentally and physically demanding. Beau Gibson and Lindsay Devery have been dedicating their time taking training to the next level, and are now set to compete in the Strongman Competition this June. Together with their trainer Jack Davey, they talk to us about what is involved. We feature Sawtell Building Co as our builder of the month. Sawtell Building Co’s goal is to build beautiful homes that encapsulate the essence of their clients’ personalities, creating not just an exceptional space but a unique lifestyle. We had a chat with the business owner Sonny Kennedy to find out more.

contacts. SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci Seccombe nicole@focusmag.com.au ADVERTISING SALES Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Sue Chamberlain info@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY/EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR James Dawson james@focusmag.com.au

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Coffs Coast Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2020 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Australian Community Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

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INTERVIEWS

JACK THOMPSON

EMMA ASPDEN

STRONGMAN

We sit down with legendary Australian actor Jack Thompson, one of the major figures in Australian cinema who has helped to shape the industry here over his long career.

Coffs Coast International Womens Day winner Emma Aspden’s core values, beliefs, character and actions are inspiring, bringing a little magic to our region for those in need. .

Beau Gibson and Lindsay Devery have been dedicating their time taking training to the next level, and are now set to compete in the Strongman Competition this June.

S P E C IA L F E AT U R E

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 26. PFLAG - Sam Dawson 76. Look Good Feel Good - Carole Beros 81. Business Minds - Lindsay Russell & Heidi Figenschau 84. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 86. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 99. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh CONTRIBUTOR OF

100. Talking Destination - Fiona Barden

THE MONTH

114. Rental Market - Christine Rengger

SAM DAWSON

118. Real Estate Update - Chris Hines

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

t i ti t Follow us on

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The Big Chill, Beer and BBQ Festival: A mouth watering event, for the lovers of all things meat, smoked and BBQ’d. There’ll be a frothy line-up of craft beers, street food market stalls and live music Book tickets through Eventbrite (QR code). For the backyard BBQ Kings, grab some mates and register to compete in the Steak Cook-Off or Australasian BBQ competition. Application forms on the website.

Civic Park Armidale MAY 15-16

Limited tickets Book NOW

bigchill.com.au #bigchillarmidale

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We have been lucky enough to sit down with LEGENDARY AUSTRALIAN ACTOR JACK THOMPSON TO CHAT ABOUT AND SHARE SOME OF THE STORIES THAT HAVE BROUGHT HIM TO WHERE HE IS TODAY. Jack has been one of the major figures in Australian cinema and has helped to shape the industry here over his long career.

ell us about the Jack Thompson Foundation and how it got started? The Jack Thompson Foundation started nearly 18 years ago. We are involved with teaching indigenous people in the homelands how to use the material around them to essentially make houses. You always have to put cultural continuity first. We started 8 years ago with Lukas Mill in East Arnhem Land, where we taught them how to use the mill and how to select the trees. We teach how to cut timber and build frame houses out of that. More recently we have found we can harvest timber in culturally appropriate and environmentally appropriate ways. Setting that up provides an income for that group of people. There are 27 different nations in which they have selected elders to be a part of this endeavour. Why have you chosen to live here on the Coffs Coast? Simply because it‘s beautiful. I first came here in 1969. I had a mate who had stayed in Woolgoolga by chance and he called me because I had always wanted a farm, but on an actor‘s wage

in those days it was difficult; there the age of 5 (the war had finished by was no Australian film industry. So then). I remember when I was 6, the he told me he had found a place that school encouraged plays, art, it even might be achievable for what I was had a little orchestra; I had wonderful looking for. So in 1971 I bought land teachers, I got involved in these little in the Brooklana area near Dorrigo puppet plays. I would do one man and lived there for a number of years. plays, because at the movies in those I always came down to the coast for days they used to be 2 features, a holidays and spots of camping. Then couple of cartoons and serials like 20 years ago I had Superman etc. And seen a sign saying so, having seen ‘coastal land for them at the movies, sale’ and the rest I would do these You have is history, as they serials like “Jack the beach, say! You can‘t get the Wonderboy”. It the bush and any better if you was a game and a a great little ask me. Woopi is hobby for me, and town all in great, it still has so I went off and close proximity. the feeling of a did a whole heap It's just small beach town of other things. As paradise. and one of the a young person I only places you didn’t ever want have the beach, to be an actor per the bush and a se, because there great little town all in close proximity. wasn‘t a film industry, Australian It‘s just paradise. actors did stage and if they wanted to Where did your passion for acting work on film or TV they would have begin? to go to England or America. It wasn‘t As a child! I was at a school similar until the rebirth of the Australian to an orphanage at a very young film industry in 1970 that it became age. I was born in 1940 when the war something I took more seriously. started, and I was at that school from Continued Over...

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All through my time in the bush in Motel. Day after day after day in front of western New South Wales I went into the camera learning from other actors I town to the Amateur Theatrical Society saw that this was a craft; the more you and did plays, and then later in Army do, the more you work with people that Med Corps posted in Brisbane I went are good at it, the better you get. And to the Twelfth Night Theatre and did now it's 50 years on. Shakespeare for schools. But as a hobby I You could retire and live life on the did also go to classes with Hayes Gordon farm. Why, 50 years on, do you still who was a wonderful teacher. You can love acting? be a keen tennis player and you can go Because I love it. I get paid to do and get coaching but it doesn’t mean something I love and I'm extremely you are ever going to be a pro. You get grateful for that. You can never learn coaching to improve your game to learn enough about it. It's like playing a musical more about it. That’s what I did, I went to instrument; you go on doing it and Ensemble Theatre to learn and get better. there is always something new to learn. I went into the I love making films Army Med Corps to because there are train as a laboratory all these people that Day after day technician. When come together with after day I went to Hayes at their individual lives in front of the Ensemble Theatre and differences, camera learning he told me I’d everybody drops from other be back. I said all of that and you maybe?... Will I? have this single actors I saw Then I got purpose and that’s that this was to Queensland the making of the a craft. University changed movie. And when to an art degree you do that I think and got so involved that’s humanity at its with the theatre at the uni that it was very best. This mutual cooperative, which interfering with my academic pursuit and is a wonderful feeling. I had to make the choice. I was raving What have been some of your about an experimental theatre we put favourite characters you have played? together and my father who was a senior They are all really interesting characters feature writer producer for ABC radio (he which you become very involved in. paid actors to read poetry and so on), I've played real characters a lot so you he said to me “you’re pretty keen about research where they were born, things it, have you ever thought about doing it like that. I think to myself “what was he full time?” My response was “...lately I listening to and what movies did he like? have.” He told me, and I still remember And who did he admire? What era did it clear as day, he said “Lilies fester stink he live in and what was that time like for worse than weeds.” Uh-huh... I think people at that age?“ I decide those things he is trying to tell me something. I then and they are the things that become stopped going to uni and came back part of the character I play, so even to Sydney, got an agent, and went to though those details may not appear in 28 auditions of getting told no before I the movie, it's all about the attitude the got my first job. Which was 5 half hour man has. Then I get to play someone like episodes of a soap for Channel 7 called Burke in Burke and Wills, and you get a

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dialect coach teaching you the accent so then you learn to speak a certain way, so you’re speaking and thinking in that way so you don’t have to think about it when you’re in front of the camera and it just comes naturally. Getting into character like that, does it ever leave something with you? It sure does. When I did Burke, the movie had finished and we were at a party only a few weeks later. I'm there at the party raving away at someone about something and my wife speaks up and says “will the real Jack Thompson please sit down!”...so you do get bits of your character hanging around! They don’t possess you, but accents surely do hang around for a little while and characteristics you have adopted like mannerisms etc. What's it like finally having something like SWIFF here on the Coffs Coast? I think it’extremely important and I have wanted to see an international film festival here because that means that world film is a part of the local culture and the local recognition of what it is. The screen is a language that everyone speaks. Kids, they can now watch movies on their phones and television screens, so it becomes their language. I think you’re not plugged in to contemporary culture unless you're plugged in to the international expression that's there on the screen; Australian, American, European, Asian etc. I’m the President of the International Asia Pacific Screen Academy and it's stunning the films coming out of places like India, Korea, China! So what SWIFF brings to Coffs Harbour is the heart of what makes the act dance and I love that. If we have that drive and that interest, who knows; they could open up a studio here and imagine what that could do for film here on the Coffs Coast! Thanks Jack.

Day a er day a er day in front of the camera learning from other actors I SAW THAT THIS WAS A CRAFT;

THE MORE YOU DO, THE MORE YOU WORK with people that are good at it, the be er you get.

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COFFS COAST EASTER SHOW AND SHINELOWRIDERS AND CLASSICS. An event to showcase lowriders and classic cars. Trophies on the day for 10 categories. Food vendors and merchandise will be available at the event. $10 entry fee for cars and gold coin donation with both donations going to Hope for the Homeless. When 3rd April Where Coffs Harbour Showground Time 9pm until 2pm

RED ROCK EATS N BEATS Are you ready Red Rock!! Twilight Food Market & the Red Rock Bowlo are so excited to be combining to bring you this free family event at Easter. Will be heaps of fun! Multicultural Foodies, Climbing Tower, Bare Foot Bowls, Fairy Floss & your fave bevvies from the club! Drummer Not Included is performing too! Save the date & spread the word! And don't forget the Kids!! When Sunday 4th April, 4pm until 9pm. Where Red Rock Bowling Club

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SWIFF 2021

9 VIVA ITALIA! LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL TRIO LIVE AT LUNCH Join virtuosi instrumentalists flautist Jane Rutter, and guitarist Giuseppe Zangari with Marcello Maio Accordion/Piano as they celebrate the music of Italy. Join Jane Rutter and her guest artists for an exclusive and delicious lunch time escape after the concert – limited numbers available. When 9th April, 12pm Where Jetty Theatre Tickets Adult $35 | Conc $32 | Members $30 | Concert & Lunch Package $53

This 16-day film festival includes over 100 feature film screenings in beachside Coffs Harbour and the creative mountain town of Bellingen, including Q&A sessions with filmmaker guests, live soundtrack events, projection art exhibitions, networking events for filmmakers, and a film exhibition program that focuses on award-winning world cinema, new Australian films, compelling documentaries - and Australia's largest regional youth film competition, the new Nextwave Youth Film Awards. When 14th April until 29th April For showtimes and tickets visit swiff.com.au

WE CAN BE HEROES - A BENEFIT FOR TYLER This is a community event to help raise much needed funds for a local family. With live performances from Five Way Groove (back for one night only) and Then Jolene. Plenty for the kids to enjoy such as a jumping castle, face painting arts and crafts plus much more. When 24th April Where Moonee Beach Tavern Time Doors open at 2pm Tickets Book tickets through eventbrite $10 +bf or $15 on the door. Kids U12 FREE

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COFFS COAST I N T E R N AT I O N A L W O M E N S D AY WINNER

Emma A S P DE N

Coffs Coast International Womens Day winner Emma Aspden is the epitome of WOMAN. Her core values, beliefs, character and actions are inspiring, bringing a li le magic to our region step by step, day by day for those in need.

i Emma. Congratulations, you have just been named our Coffs Coasts Woman of the Year for 2021… Tell us about the woman behind the name, and what it means to be awarded the prestigious award. Let me start by acknowledging Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour Inc., BPW (Business & Professional Women) Coffs Harbour and Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network (BWN). These groups come together each year to ensure that our region recognises International Women’s Day. I’d like to thank these groups for the work that they do every day but particularly at this time of year for recognising the people in our wider community that support women. I moved from Bathurst to the Coffs Coast

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14 years ago. Having grown up in Canberra are the people in my life that help me, so I and studied in Sydney, living next to the can help others. ocean was a foreign concept for me but I I’m honestly overwhelmed to think I love it. I live with my share this recognition husband and 3 kids with Aunty Bea plus an enthusiastic Ballangarry, Charlotte THE THREE OF pup named Kozi! Young and last year’s The Coffs Coast is winner Lily Isabella. US STRIVE TO a beautiful part of To stand alongside MAKE A the world so rich in finalists Lisa Nichols DIFFERENCE IN cultural history and a – a leader in mental SUPPORTING SOME stunning landscape. health and Angelika OF THE MOST I believe that we Aulerich – supporting VULNERABLE all have amazing people experiencing MEMBERS OF OUR women in our lives homelessness, has COMMUNITY. that we can learn been a real highlight. from and draw The three of us strive inspiration. I am to make a difference so lucky to be surrounded in my life by in supporting some of the most vulnerable my mum, my sisters, aunties, wonderful members of our community. colleagues and my tribe of friends. These I feel privileged to be recognised for the

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work I have done and to place a spotlight settlement. on the challenges that face our refugee and What barriers have you faced in your migrant communities. career and how have you overcome Currently, you work with vulnerable them? people in our community and have over As it is for many women, I think the 20 years’ experience in your field. Tell us hardest thing for me has been the art of about your role at Anglicare North Coast juggling family with work and stepping in and the work you do? and out of the work force to have a family. I have a background in arts education and My career has also been entirely in regional community engagement. I feel my creative Australia where the opportunities are not background is an asset in my work as it always available, but that can also open helps me to connect with people, to share doors to a new adventure. culture and stories. I have also been involved I have always continued to engage with research and tutoring at Southern with community and a young family can Cross University, to share my experiences create openings such as volunteering at of working with the refugee and migrant play groups and schools. The benefits of community. volunteering are enormous, it keeps you But most recently, I have worked with connected, makes you feel valued personally refugee and migrant women in the 3Es and appreciated by others. I am always to Freedom program, at Anglicare North encouraging people to volunteer, where Coast. The premise of this program believes they can. that if women are engaged in Education, Also, creating a third space and having Employment and time to yourself can Empowerment they are provide the balance MY DAD less likely to become you need to keep victims of family and you focused. I’m still TAUGHT ME domestic violence. I working on this and THE POWER OF feel it is an honour force myself to walk EDUCATION AND to work with refugee out the door to do WORKING HARD. and migrant women some laps at my local MY MUM HAS to create a safe space pool and have a hit of GIFTED ME WITH for their stories, their tennis. COMPASSION AND fears and to support Can you tell us KINDNESS. I’LL their hopes for a life of about a role model NEVER HAVE MY safety and freedom. who has inspired MUM’S PATIENCE I provide assistance you over the years BUT IT’S for women in both personally SOMETHING I their early years of and professionally? settlement in Australia, Over the years I ASPIRE TO! to identify what they have been inspired would like to achieve by so many people today, tomorrow and into the future. And personally and professionally. together we map a pathway. For this group I was lucky growing up in a household of women, who are often not formally where education was valued and educated in their first language and married encouraged and it’s my family that has been very young, life is challenging yet always the most significant influence on me. My hopeful. It is my role to empower, build Dad taught me the power of education and confidence, create community connections working hard. My Mum has gifted me with and advocate for these resilient women. compassion and kindness. I’ll never have my Feeling connected to community and having Mum’s patience but it’s something I aspire a sense of belonging is an enormous part of to! I have an older brother, 2 younger sisters,

lots of extended family, and I love moving through life with them. Right now I’m inspired by the women I work with. These women have so many adversities to overcome, yet they keep striving for a better life. The majority of women that I support have lived in war torn countries, experienced trauma and been deprived of health care, education and freedom. They have been completely displaced from family and friends and are now living in a new country with a new language. They make a choice each day, to wake up and to live life. This inspires me everyday. How important is it for women to lift each other up, and what does that mean for you? In the current political climate, it’s more important than ever to support each other. Brave women, like Grace Tame, Australian of the Year, are finding their voice and encouraging others to do the same. Let’s not doubt those voices. Across cultures, I have witnessed the strength of women coming together to share stories, dance, song, food, laughter and tears. There is so much power in women just being together. I believe there is a role for both men and women to drive change and improve gender equality. We all have blind spots, I would encourage you to take whatever opportunities you can to listen, learn and grow from those around you. What’s next for you? Anglicare North Coast has successfully worked with the Multicultural community for over 14 years, and I intend to keep that legacy moving forward. Anglicare North Coast are in the process of developing a Multicultural Hub in Coffs Harbour. We are so excited about the prospects of this initiative. We are opening our building and inviting the Multicultural community to use that space to gather, promote enterprise, and as a place to connect. I can’t wait to support the refugee and migrant community to showcase their skills, stories and culture to the broader community. COFFS COAST

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PANDA'S

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an you tell us a bit about how Panda’s Paws Healing with Hounds got started and how long you've been around? I started Panda’s Paws Healing with Hounds in early 2018, having decided to make a significant change in my career. I have always been interested in the benefits of the unique, multifaceted relationship between people and dogs. I created Panda’s Paws Healing with Hounds, an Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) service, to provide a genuine, empathetic therapy programme for individuals and groups to support and enrich a wide variety of clients. Panda’s Paws have four very special greyhounds - D’Arcy, Florence, Ghost and Pepper - who all love their job as therapy dogs, along with our human team members Panda, Lisa and Jess helping to make each session special and uniquely planned to suit individual needs. Can you explain Animal Assisted Therapy and its benefits? Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is when trained animals (in our case greyhounds) are used in goal-directed sessions. These goals can be physical, mental, emotional and/or social. AAT provides positive unconditional companionship and support. AAT can develop an improvement in emotional wellbeing, assist those struggling with anxiety and depression, and improve socialisation skills and communication. Those on the autism spectrum and with PTSD as well as many other conditions can benefit from the

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We caught up with Pandora Chippendale who is the brains and operation behind “Panda’s Paws”, to find out the ins and outs of Animal Assisted Therapy and the surprising quality that most greyhounds have... services Panda’s Paws Healing with Hounds provide. The greyhounds provide their unique therapy style in many environments from aged care facilities to hectic workplace environments. Pandora had formal training in AAT dog handling, counselling skills, Lifeline crisis support, mental health first aid and is a registered NDIS provider. Why greyhounds? Greyhounds are an often-misunderstood breed, they are a calm breed with kind, sensitive souls. With their gentle nature they are more than happy to take a walk alongside you, or sit beside you offering companionship and genuine affection. Panda’s Paws has seen the enormous potential for rescued greyhounds to start a new purpose-filled life as therapy dogs. One look into their eyes and you will understand our motto of “Rescue dogs = Rescue people”. You must have some beautiful stories to tell. What has been one of your favourite moments when it comes working with your clients and the greyhounds? This is a tough one!!! There are so many. It is always magical when we arrive for a session to observe the mutual joy and excitement between the clients and the greyhounds when they see each other. A recent experience was at a local hairdressers, D’Arcy (greyhound) and I were at a neighbouring business when we met the owner of the salon. He had just been informed of the mandatory COVID-19 lockdown, and he and all his staff were devastated and trying to come to terms with the uncertainties that lay ahead. The salon

owner saw D’Arcy and immediately embraced the hound, a release of tension and stress appeared to come over him, D’Arcy was then escorted by the owner into the salon to share his magic touch with the shattered staff. As we were leaving, we were repeatedly thanked for “making such an amazing difference on a terrible day.” I had genuine tears of happiness being able to provide a wonderful positive moment to those who were struggling with the monumental changes happening that day. Needless to say, D’Arcy and I now have a new hairdresser! What's one thing that most people are surprised about when it comes to greyhounds? It would have to be finding out how lazy they are! They are often referred to as: 70km/h couch potatoes! Although greyhounds do love their “zoomies”, they run out of steam quickly, happy to spend the remaining 23 hours of the day snoozing in their favourite comfy spot. They make ideal pets for apartments and townhouses, as all you need for a greyhound is a lounge! If people would like to know more, how can they find out? We would love to organise meet and greets with any of the four greyhounds and discuss how wonderful working Panda’s Paws Healing with Hounds can be. Call Panda: 0422 846 442 Email: panda@healingwithhounds.com.au Web: www.healingwithhounds.com.au Facebook: Pandas Paws Healing with Hounds Instagram: pandas_paws_hwh

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Carol WORTHI NG E D

N U R S E

Carolynn Worthing has worked in nursing for 42 years, and the Coffs Coast has been lucky enough to have her here as the Nursing Unit Manager of the Emergency Department at Coffs Harbour Health Campus for the past 10 years!

i Carolynn, tell us about your role as a nurse here in Coffs? As the Nursing Unit Manager of the Emergency Department at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, I support an amazing team of 120 people, mostly made up of nurses and clerical staff. The role encompasses all the usual responsibilities of management such as recruitment, reporting, change management and rostering. This is obviously set within the challenging environment of a service that is provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week to the most vulnerable people in our community, who are either ill or injured and depending on us for lifesaving care. How long have you been working in health? I started as a nurse at Tamworth Hospital in 1979 straight out of school so have now worked in nursing for 42 years! My career has varied between clinical emergency nursing at Westmead Hospital, 24 COFFS COAST

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lecturing in nursing at University of Western Sydney at Richmond and management at Nepean and Coffs Harbour emergency departments. I have been the Nursing Unit Manager of the Emergency Department at Coffs Harbour Health Campus for 10 years and in that time have had the privilege of supporting and encouraging the wonderful staff in the team. They are mature, knowledgeable and capable and together we have risen to the challenges of COVID-19 and exceptionally busy holiday periods. What made you decide you wanted to be a nurse? Many nurses are originally inspired to enter nursing in childhood, and I was no exception. Emergency Nursing requires knowledge and skills that include negotiation, advocacy, de-escalation, prioritisation, problem solving and, most importantly, compassion. Flexibility is essential to manage the various scenarios we face each shift. There is so much intrinsic satisfaction from work in the emergency

department which, on reflection, I am so glad that I chose to pursue and continue to evolve with and enjoy. What are some of your favourite aspects of the job? The work of encouraging and counselling a team in the long term has been the greatest honour of my career. I was once inspired by a mentor with the vision that as a manager you can simply feed a person a fish which provides an immediate solution, or we can teach a person to fish and feed them for a lifetime. I very much use this advice every day and find that investing the time and energy to coach, teach and inspire reflection in the team around me slowly influences them towards the capable group that they are. This is the most rewarding aspect of my role. What are some of the more challenging aspects? There are always challenges in the delivery of health services, particularly in the face of a global pandemic, but there’s no denying the dedication and commitment of our staff and

the safety and quality of our system. How have things changed for you at work over the past year? It has been a challenging time as we have navigated our way through a global pandemic that no current health professional has experienced The work of before. Thanks to the encouraging pandemic planning that’s and counselling a undertaken regularly, we have adapted extremely team in the long term well considering how has been the greatest much there has been to honour of my career. started on the $194 learn about COVID-19. I was once inspired million expansion of This, combined with the by a mentor with the Coffs Harbour Health efforts of our staff and the vision that as a Campus. The new community, has ensured manager you can multi-storey Clinical the Mid North Coast has Services Building is simply feed a person remained COVID-free for now clearly visible a fish which provides almost 12 months now. from the highway and an immediate Everyone is working the internal fit out is solution, or we can together to ensure a safe well underway. We teach a person to fish environment is maintained are looking forward for staff and patients. As and feed them for a to moving into our the leader of the nursing lifetime. brand-new Emergency team I really appreciate Department in the our staff so much and the near future. My team high standard of care they and I were fortunate to have the opportunity provide to our community. to provide input, right from the planning The hospital has been undergoing stage, into the design of the new ED and some big changes recently, what will have ensured that aspects that we have be different and what are you looking recommended have been incorporated that forward to about the new additions? will be beneficial for our patients. It’s been an exciting time since work

What advice would you give to anyone thinking of going into a career in nursing/ health? I would certainly recommend this career to anyone who is inspired to seek job satisfaction and the challenges of this field. What do you enjoy doing when you’re away from the ED? I have to confess to being a ‘history buff’ and love nothing more than an interesting conversation with like-minded people. I completed a Masters in History from the University of New England a few years ago and found this so enjoyable. Hopefully one day, after nursing retirement, I may take groups on history-themed travel especially in France and Spain where I have visited a number of times. Let’s hope international travel will be back on the cards again in years to come. Thanks Carolynn. COFFS COAST

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PFLAG with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

Coffs Coast PFLAG is a volunteer group and is short for Parents and Friends of Lesbians And Gays and covers supporting everybody in the LGBTIQ community.

y name is Sam Dawson and I am the mother of a gay son. I didn’t have the luxury of a local support group 12 years ago so I personally know how important this is to have here. I am here to coordinate the PFLAG group here in Coffs Harbour and invite everyone who would like to show support for a loved one. I often get asked “How can I show support?” Firstly, by educating yourself about diversity and sexuality and learning everything you can about the LGBTIQ community. This can be by simply accessing resources online like the PFLAG website and talking to other parents. We also are starting back our monthly coffee casual meet ups. These are mainly on a Saturday and you can contact me directly or join our private and public Facebook groups for more information. It takes a lot of courage for your child to come out. No matter how loving and supportive a family can be the child still has many conflicting issues to deal with and the fear of rejection is so real. I just attended in March the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardis Gras. I was there to marry a mature couple there in my role as a Marriage Celebrant and I was honoured.

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The history went back 35 years ago when As family we need to treat our child/ they had to both keep their relationship friend exactly the same way as we would secret as they had big professions and it a heterosexual couple on all levels. I have would possibly jeopardise that as it was been so aware of how people feel they can the height of AIDS and all the scary events ask anything when you are perceived as around that. different. I felt so emotional as it symbolised LGBTIQ people are people and do not 50 years of their love being a part of an community fighting inquisition into their for equality and for a lifestyle and personal As family we society free from stigma details! need to treat where all LGBTIQ people As family and friends our child/friend can all live openly and we can encourage love exactly the same way authentically. I think this and acceptance in the as we would a is improving and I want wider community. heterosexual couple my son to live safely We have great on all levels. I have and to not have stares supporters here already been so aware of how or jokes made and and there are many people feel they can him to be made to feel groups from social to ask anything when inferior because of these medical so do not hesitate you are perceived societal attitudes. to get in touch as I have as different. We can also a great list generated by show our support Annabelle at ACON who by admitting that some subjects are has compiled an extensive list. uncomfortable and take the time to get PFLAG is here to give help, support comfortable. and information to families and friends of We need to be respectful of the language everyone in the LGBTIQ community right we use. It’s important that we ask our loved here on the Coffs Coast. Please get in ones how they would like us to refer to touch as we meet monthly. them. W: pflagaustralia.org.au Another way to show support is to not FB: /group/PFLAGCoffs Coast “out” your child to other family and friends P: 0417 861 045 until they are ready for that. E: pflagcoffscoast@gmail.com

COME DINE Our fabulous Food Court has something for everyone including Aromas of India, Bey Kebabs, Donut King, Fung Tian Asian, Muffin Break, Red Rooster, Ridgey Didge Pies, Shinobu Sushi, Subway and Vietnam Journey or try Nuovo Cafe near the Playground or Boost Juice in the Promotions Court. Plus dine in at:

Check with individual stores for trading hours.

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FIVE WAY

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY. Five Way Groove are a legendary cover band comprised of family members all hailing from the Coffs Coast region.

ith backgrounds from Australia, Fiji and New Zealand the band are getting back together for a one-time show. This show is a benefit for one of our own community family members to support them through a difficult time. Five Way Groove’s extensive repertoire pulls classic tunes from many genres including Funk, Soul, Reggae, Americana and classic rock. The band have not performed for over 10 years as a group, with family commitments and other musical endeavours taking priority. Luckily for anyone who attends this gig, the band were more than happy to put their hand up to support a

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local family in need and are joining forces with locals Mitch and Lou from Quick Fix exclusively for a night not to be missed. The band is comprised of Fred Miller on guitar and backing vocals, Kevin Miller on guitar and backing vocals, Lloyd Miller (currently playing with ‘The Beets’) on bass and backing vocals, Fuge on drums. Their frontman Reo Hita (former frontman for legendary reggae band ‘Ebb N Flo’) is a musical driving force and his voice is unparalleled in the local scene. Joining Five Way Groove will be ‘Then Jolene’ who are another fantastic local band comprised of nine members playing a hybrid of country and punk with incredible musicianship and unique instruments like the double bass, washboard and fiddle mixed with 4-part vocal harmonies.

Along with great music there will be lots of fun and activities for the whole family with face painting, arts and crafts and a jumping castle to keep the kids entertained. This show will be a melting pot of good vibes and great tunes! But the driving force for the day is to raise as much money as possible for a local legend and his family who have had a very trying time over the last 18 months. So please come along to The Moonee Tavern on Saturday 24th April. Doors open at 2pm. ‘Then Jolene’ performance kicks off from 2:30pm and ‘Five Way Groove’ from 5pm. Simply scan the QR code to secure your ticket from Eventbrite for $10+BF or $15 at the door, U12 are free. Tickets are limited so get in quick to secure your spot in this Coffs Coast event of the year to support one of our own.

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Jolene

Fiddles, Mandolins and Acoustic guitars... What more can you ask for? Bluegrass band, Then Jolene have taken the North Coast by storm.

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ow many band members and what do they each bring to Then Jolene? Then Jolene has 8 members in total. Each member brings their own unique perspective to the band, some of us also bring multiple personalities, so this is always fun. It is a unique band in many ways, three members born on the 21st November, 2 married couples, dramatic and theatrical to say the least. Some us bring intelligence, others humour, some common sense and on most nights fine cheese and domestic beer. What type of sound can we expect from you? We kind of drew our inspiration from the old bluegrass stuff, we use traditional instruments like fiddles, mandolins, acoustic guitars, our bass player has a stand-up bass that was his grandfather's, that is 130 years age… however, we do tend to

bastardise that ol timey sound due to the fact most of us have a history in alternative, punk or metal bands. What makes your vibe and sound so unique? All of the above, we have no clear indicators of what we should sound like, we have 4 songwriters within the group and 6 vocalists. We are accustomed and obviously draw our inspiration from the bluegrass areas but the sound is unique. As far as the vibe goes, we are bloody theatre, the banter and diatribe between songs can be hilarious, cutting and there is a willingness to take the piss. It truly is dinner and a show. Two married couples, 3 members born on the same day, to say we are a quiet bunch would be a lie. You can catch Then Jolene at We can be Heroes - A benefit for Tyler at the Moonee Beach Tavern. Saturday 24th April | 2:30pm | Cost is $10 + BF, $15 on the door Kids are FREE

COVER DISH 4 POINT KINGFISH RACK WITH SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS AND MULLOWAY SWIM-BLADDER CRACKLE FROM SEASALT FISHMONGERS IN TOORMINA

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Cr a f t y THE

REVEL BREWING MANGO & MACADAMIA WEISSE SOUR Nothing beats a refreshing ice cream treat on a warm balmy summer afternoon… except if it’s a beer that tastes like an ice cream! Fresh & icy cold on the taps at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this delicious limited edition kettle sour from Brisbane’s Revel Brewing. Based on the summer classic, the Mango Weis Bar, it’s loaded with fresh mango, macadamia & coconut to recreate an Aussie icon... but in a beer! If you’re game, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create the ultimate adult summer spider!

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In the filleting room - with Josh Cook from Seasalt Fishmongers

hen did you first become interested in fish mongering as a career? I did my chefs apprenticeship at the Deep Sea Fishing Club under Mathew Donovan and Arnold Underwood from 20002004. The chefs were constantly breaking down whole fish to put on the specials board. I became instantly fascinated with the wide range of cutting techniques and cookery methods for different species. What training did you undertake and where was your first job? After 10 years of working in various kitchens predominantly as a seafood chef, I hung up the tongs and started selling fresh fish “over the counter” at the Coffs Harbour fishermen’s co-op with Anna. A fisherman’s wife that grew up in the industry, I still call her my NSW mum. My GM at the time saw my passion and put me through some amazing programs such as the NSILP (national seafood industry leadership program), training nights with Josh Niland as

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well as persuading me to do live “cooking demonstrations” which also got me Sydney Fishmarkets “young achiever award” in 2019. What do you take into consideration when purchasing fish? I like to know who’s caught it, how it was caught and how it’s been handled before it hits our shop at Seasalt Fishmongers. If you work with great suppliers you’ll end up with great results. My partner in piscatorial shenanigans, Mrs Fish aka Bec aka the missus does all the legwork chasing produce, it’s a 24/7 job and she nails it every time. What are some of your favourite creations currently and why? This list could go on forever but at the moment I’ve gone a little “fish sausage mad”. They’re like awesome little packages of flavour and I’m constantly tweaking the recipes for them. Where do you source new ideas from? There’s a few heavy hitters in the industry that are great for inspiration, but for me it mostly comes down to trial and error. A couple of beers, a pen and some paper usually does

the trick. What would you say is the biggest influence in your work? Getting people to step outside their comfort zone with seafood. It’s one of the most versatile proteins on the planet, but with that comes fragility. If we keep targeting and eating the same popular species, they may not be around for our children to enjoy in the future. Outside of work, what do you enjoy to cook? Surprise surprise, it’s always fish haha. Particularly fish pies. Throughout your career, what famous chefs have you admired and why? This is another list that could go on forever, Ferran Adrià, Marco Pierre, Josh Niland & Paul Farag, Mathew Burrell... pretty much anyone that isn’t afraid to shake it up a little, go against the status quo all in the name of creation. Any final words? I’d just like to thank Penny and Phil, the owners and backbone of Seasalt, without them, Bec and I wouldn’t be able to do what we do.

FISHMONGERS - RECIPE INGREDIENTS 1 dry aged kingfish rack 1 mulloway (jewfish) swim bladder 200ml Chinese master stock 1 bok choy 8 shiitake mushrooms Ghee Sea salt Radish slices, coriander and chives to garnish 3 tbsp Kewpie mayo 1 tbsp miso paste

METHOD 1. Cut open the swim bladders and thoroughly clean both sides removing all blood vessels, rinse in salted water and place in food dehydrator with 4 sliced shiitake mushrooms on a separate level above. Leave overnight on mid setting until mushrooms are completely dry and swim bladders are translucent. 2. Grind dried mushrooms with two tablespoons of sea salt in mortar and pestle till combined. 3. Cut swim bladder with kitchen scissors into strips and fry till crisp (pork crackle texture). Season with shiitake salt. 4. Put remaining mushrooms in master stock and reduce from 200ml to 100ml or till a jus consistency is reached. 5. Season kingfish skin with shiitake salt and pan fry with ghee on skin side only till crisp, baste with master stock and finish in a moderate oven, then rest. 6. Combine Kewpie and miso paste and spread into a circle on the plate.

P O I N T

Kingfish RACK OF

with S H I I TA K E

MUSHROOMS AND M U L LO WAY S W I M - B L A D D E R C R A C K L E

7. Cut bok choy into quarters and steam very briefly to maintain crunch. 8. Place drained bok choy unseasoned onto miso base. 9. Lay master stock shiitakes on top of bok choy and kingfish atop skin side up. 10. Finish with another small ladle of master stock and finish with chives, swim bladder, raw radish slices and coriander.

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A CUT

Above M O W I N G & YA R D C A R E

A Cut Above Mowing & Yard Care is a new addition to the Coffs Coast and a local business run by Nathan Baldwin. Nathan and the team are professional and dedicated to providing quality care and maintenance to your property.

Cut Above Mowing & Yard Care is a new, family-run business, consisting of Nathan, his wife Kate who is on call for the big jobs and also takes care of the admin, their 2 kids, Jordie, 8 and Jax, 6, who start their shift around 4pm each day, helping to unload the trailer, clean it out (Jax is a gun on the blower) and pack the mowers away. They are dedicated to providing quality care and maintenance to properties on the Coffs Coast, offering professional service and reliable advice, making them A Cut Above! They provide all your garden needs; mowing, whipper snipping, brush cutting, hedging, green waste removal, weeding, spraying, general tidying, wood chopping, as well as chainsaw sharpening and advice on the right tools to best maintain your property! If the job is outside their scope, they have a great network of professionals that they can refer you to. Whether it be tree lopping, or your mechanical needs, spare parts for your outdoor power equipment or a handyman around the house we will be able to put you in touch with a reliable tradie to get the job done! CALL: 0438 000 715, follow them on Facebook & Instagram at @ACutAboveCoffsCoast

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Arts CULTURE &

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Read P L AY i t

WAT C H

WITH NICCI SECCOMBE

WATCH PLAY

For the Girls Hey girl hey. Welcome to a brand new party game from the creators of What Do You Meme? Ditch the dudes for the night because this game is For The Girls! Perfect for: Bachelorette Parties, Girls’ Night In, Girls’ Night Out, Birthday Parties, Sororities, Pregames, Reunions, and more! Get prepared for rounds of Truth or Dare, Never Have I Ever, Most Likely To, Best Of The Best, and Rapid Fire! The new “GIRLS-ONLY” adult party game by the creators of What Do You Meme?

Behind Her Eyes It can be tricky to pull off a double twist. “Behind Her Eyes,” Netflix’s new nail-biter of a miniseries, is thematically chaotic, and its characters are messy, but its ending has an effect like breaking the seal of a ketchup bottle—a startling, satisfying pop. Many viewers were outraged by the finale; shortly after the show’s six episodes dropped, disturbed fans took to Twitter with the hashtag #WTFThatEnding. But, much like the “sensation fiction” of the Victorian era—those cleverly plotted “novels with a secret” intent on revealing the bonkers impulses beneath the respectable surfaces of ordinary people—“Behind Her Eyes” manages to be both over the top and efficient. It’s the kind of show that rewards a rewatch, if one is able to stomach it.

READ Boy Swallows Universe - Trent Dalton

LISTEN Podcast: That’s Enough Already with Urzila Carlson We all have things that, as they so beautifully put it in Australia, “shit us to death.” Well, what’s your thing? From Covid-deniers to people who don’t give way in traffic, this is a show about the morons who make the world a worse place, and Urzila and her guests are prepared to name and shame them all.

Brisbane, 1983: A lost father, a mute brother, a mum in jail, a heroin dealer for a stepfather and a notorious crim for a babysitter. It’s not as if Eli’s life isn’t complicated enough already. He’s just trying to follow his heart, learning what it takes to be a good man, but life just keeps throwing obstacles in the way - not least of which is Tytus Broz, legendary Brisbane drug dealer. But Eli’s life is about to get a whole lot more serious. He’s about to fall in love. And, oh yeah, he has to break into Boggo Road Gaol on Christmas Day, to save his mum.

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K C JA S T T BO Jack Botts is a breath of fresh air out of the Northern Rivers of NSW, creating a brand of surf folk drenched in depth and substance. This is showcased in droves on his debut EP ‘Summer Nights’, released in November 2018. ack introduced listeners shows and daily busking on the to his unique form of streets of Byron Bay, Jack found storytelling, filled with tales time to put the final touches on from the his second EP road, chance ‘Northern Rivers’, Touring meetings set for release Australia and simply letting on November 1, consistently life take its course and featuring the throughout under the warm singles ‘Gypsy’ and 2019, whether it cover of darkness. title track ‘Northern was supporting Touring Australia Rivers’. Pierce Brothers, consistently Catch Jack Botts Tay Oskee, John throughout 2019, live at at Dark Floreani, and whether it was Arts Cafe & Bar The Dreggs. supporting Pierce Saturday 24th Brothers, Tay April Oskee, John Floreani, and The Tickets available from here: Dreggs nationally, or headline linktr.ee/jackbotts

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SWIFF.COM.AU COFFS COAST

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SWIFF’21 F E S T I VA L

Highlights

Last year the Coffs Coast became home of the most popular film festival in regional Australia, with the 16day Screenwave International Film Festival notching another record year for a endance.

WIFF’21, presented again by tailor-made furniture company Ashton Designs, will host 65 different feature films and a record 120 different sessions to experiences from April 14-29. Focus breaks down the huge festival line-up to see the highlights of the Coffs Coast’s annual movie marathon. So what’s new at SWIFF’21? SWIFF Expands to CHEC SWIFF has been growing quickly – nearly 40% every year. So, for the festival’s sixth outing, SWIFF will also move to the Coffs Harbour Education Campus, in addition to the Jetty Memorial Theatre. CHEC will be home to a huge events space, including a beer garden, café, and nine full days of programming at the 350-capacity CHEC Theatre, plus the Closing Night Gala and afterparty. SWIFF Festival Patron: Jack Thompson Known as “The flagship of the Australian film industry”, Jack Thompson has a film career spanning over 50 years, starring in his first feature film, Wake In Fright, in 1971. Thompson will chair a Festival Patron team also featuring Sydney Film Prize-winning documentarian Sascha Ettinger-Epstein (Destination Arnold, The Pink House), and rising star Aaron Glenane 42 COFFS COAST

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With a line-up so carving out his own is roaming charmer full of unique legacy with acclaimed Nomadland, starring films, you can throw a performances in Killing two-time Oscar-winner dart at the schedule and Ground, Danger Close: The Frances McDormand. Battle of Long Tan, and Minari, a beautifully pick a winner. The good Netflix’s Snowpiercer. nuanced film about a thing is there are so Where to start? young Korean family many options you can With an extensive film chasing the American basically design your program, the best way Dream in Arkansas, own mini festival. to experience SWIFF is to took out Best Foreign throw yourself in the deep Language Film at the end and get out of your Golden Globes, and comfort zone. With a line-up so full of unique is being recognised by the Academy for its films, you can throw a dart at the schedule and nuanced performances, touching score and pick a winner. The good thing is there are so its moving screenplay. Thomas Vinterberg is many options you can basically design your own nominated at the Oscars for Best Director for mini festival. The hard part – where to begin? his new and personal film Another Round, Award Magnets following four curious drunken Danish teachers The line-up at SWIFF’21 boasts a lot of awards and starring Mads Mikkelsen. For documentary trophy hardware. Daniel Kaluuya and Lakeith lovers, don’t miss the recently Oscar nominated Stanfield are sweeping Best Acting nominations The Mole Agent, a heart-warming aged-care for the powerful Black Panther civil rights caper, or the exceptional Collective, named one revolution drama Judas & The Black Messiah, of the best films about journalism ever made. with the film also nominated for Best Film Indie Comedies and Best Screenplay at the upcoming Oscars. While there are many nuanced dramas in the Chalking up 191 wins of its own and making line-up, if you’re just after a laugh you’re in luck director Chloe Zhao the first Asian American too. Hidden gem indie comedies are a special woman nominated for the Best Director Oscar type, and SWIFF is thrilled to feature the latest

from beloved indie-auteur Miranda July with the offbeat scam artist flick Kajillionaire. Feel the punk rock troublemaking spirit in comingof-age black comedy Dinner In America, and be charmed by taboo-busting heartwarmer Saint Frances. Take a step out of time with the utterly romantic yet absurd Golden Voices, following aging Russian voice over artists, or experience a truth that is stranger than fiction with a dive into a Floridian retirement town where sex, drugs and rock n roll persevere in offbeat doco Some Kind of Heaven. International Documentaries SWIFF is bringing a bumper crop of nonfiction films to the festival – mirroring the volatile year that 2020 was. Welcome to Chechnya uses deep fake technology to hide the identities of persecuted gay and lesbian people in Chechnya – where activists are running against the clock to help victims escape persecution by the state. In Cockroach, Chinese dissident artist Ai Weiwei lobs a Molotov cocktail at the establishment with street-level view of the Hong Kong riots, and the Romanian doco Collective has been dubbed one of the greatest movies about journalism ever made. On the lighter side of non-fiction, there’s a selection of heartwarming true stories, including Joaquin Phoenix executive-produced experimental silent film following the life of a pig named Gunda, and the award-sweeping Norwegian The Painter and the Thief about an artist creating a portrait of a charismatic drug addict that stole her artworks from a gallery. Dog lovers out there will not want to miss the poignant Stray or the environmentally conscious, utterly charming The Truffle Hunters, which

follows a reclusive community of Italians and their beloved truffling hounds, in a similar vein to SWIFF’20’s Honeyland. The list of documentaries this year is diverse and sprawling, so well worth a deep dive through the print program. Live Festival performances Connecting cinema and music is a vital part of the recipe that makes up SWIFF. This April the festival is welcoming Latin guitar legends Slava and Leonard Grigoryan to the stage as they perform the live soundtrack to a screening of heart-warming, family-friendly, magical-realism masterpiece A Boy Called Sailboat live on stage. Or those who like their tunes of the desert blues variety and their films on the grittier side, SWIFF is bringing in Rhyece O’Neill Band to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Australia’s stunning, awe-inspiring ‘great lost film’. With an original live soundtrack, experience Ted Kotcheff’s 1971 vivid outback sunburner Wake in Fright like never before. The Nextwave Youth Film Awards, SWIFF’s most highly attended event, is a familyfriendly gala event celebrating young regional filmmakers aged 10-25. With red carpet arrival, live music, the premiere screening of the top 22 films created for the annual Nextwave competition, and the awarding of tens of thousands of dollars in prizes for the next generation of regional filmmakers. SWIFF Closing Night Gala always ends with a bang. Hosted at CHEC Theatre this year, audiences will watch a screening of the blistering Mogul Mowgli, starring an exceptional Riz Ahmed as a UK MC spitting truth to power – to be followed by an ethnocyberfunk live, world

music performance by Coco Varma, Bobby Singh and Ben Walsh for SWIFF’21’s grand finale. Premieres Audiences at SWIFF will be some of the first in Australia to see brand new films. The festival hosts seven Australian Premieres, six NSW Premieres, and 23 World Premieres of short films. Australian Premieres include Viggo Mortensen’s directorial debut with the family drama Falling, the UNICEF Award-winning Polish holocaust epic The Painted Bird, UK youth drugsmuggling social drama County Lines, hardhitting Filipino anti-Duterte doco A Thousand Cuts, the eye-opening French gender identity documentary Little Girl, Wildfire tells the story of sisters reconciling in post-conflict Ireland, and The Macaluso Sisters, stunningly told over multiple decades as it follows a family of Italian sisters through good and hard times. NSW Premieres include Yalda, A Night of Forgiveness, an Iranian capital punishment drama set on a reality TV set, The Surrogate a clear-eyes ethical drama exploring social issues through a fascinating lens. Follow the fight to break the glass ceiling by a supermodel breaking stereotypes in Maddy The Model, or experience a pressure cooker thriller in The Killing of Two Lovers. The 2021 Screenwave International Film Festival will run for 16 days from April 14 to 29, including 120 film screenings, events, performances, parties, and industry sessions. The full festival line-up will be announced on March 5th on www.swiff.com.au, with festival passes now on sale. COFFS COAST

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the Education

CENTRE

NEW ACTIVITY CENTRE F O R S T U D E N T S A N D A D U LT S .

Student Activity Centre for those students who want to know. Want to learn. Want to enjoy learning with others. A place to meet new friends. A place to build confidence in their abilities. A place to socialise. A place to create. The Education Centre has served the students of Coffs Harbour since 2004 with excellent tuition, with qualified Teachers and Tutors ready to help them excel in their studies and to help them improve their confidence. Now we have a chance to blossom and treat students to so many more activities and learning

opportunities. Opportunities that they can enjoy with friends. “I’m so excited to offer so much under one roof” says Liz Stevens, owner of The Education Centre. “There will be more”. A place for students to feel safe with a supervisor always ready to assist where needed. A boon for working parents, knowing that their children are occupied and well looked after for a reasonable price for the afternoon or longer in the school holidays. Be it Hands on Maths or Preparation for High School class, students will be able to take their learning back to their classroom at school and help them where they need it most.

HANDS ON MATHS ENLIGHTENED ENGLISH COOKING CLASS STEM CLASS LANGUAGES ART CLASSES LIFE CLASSES NDIS AS WELL AS OUR REGULAR TUITION FACE TO FACE OR ONLINE

NEW ADDRESS from Term 2: 36-38 Harbour drive Coffs Harbour Phone 6652 2222 2/7-9 Market Street, Woolgoolga Phone 6654 8397 Level 1/9 Duke Street, Grafton Phone 6643 5610 Call Liz now for more information 0435972460

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Tuition also available: Bellingen, Macksville and Lismore

TONY CO IFFET PIANO HARBOUR

hat is your area of expertise? I am a fully trained piano technician. I learnt my trade at the European Technical Institute for Musical Trades (ITEMM) in France, as well as through an apprenticeship at the French Kawai importer. It involves tuning pianos but also adjusting thousands of moving parts to alter the touch, “sculpting” the sound of the piano, repairs, reconditioning, assessments and much more. When and why did you start your business? I started my activity in the Coffs region early February 2019, but I’ve been doing this for more than 12 years now. As for the why: after a few colleagues made me aware Coffs was desperate for a good technician to provide pianos with some TLC!

What is the best thing about your job? Meeting people. Meeting pianos. And the trust! I get called by people I have never met and they welcome me into their home, into their intimacy. Frequently, when a customer can’t be present they explain to me how to get into their house and where the piano is located! Sometimes the instrument represents all of my customer’s life too. So at times it feels like strangers entrust me with their most valuable possessions, and I am constantly deeply amazed by it. I cherish it just as much. What makes your business stand out? My training I suppose; Facebook reviews of my work speak for themselves. When I was an apprentice at Kawai France I was under the supervision of technician Stephane Boussuge, the only Kawai MPA (Kawai

Master Piano Artisan) for France. Stephane is a master who was himself trained by some of the Japanese masters. It took me years to really appreciate the unthinkable opportunity that being his assistant for two years was. I got a privileged training and I am most grateful for it. Now I’m here, so it has to benefit the region! What plans do you have for 2021/2022? I have been and still am working very hard to establish a piano shop in Coffs Harbour. At the moment, if you want to buy a new piano from here you would pretty much have to travel to Sydney or Brisbane. Establishing this shop is the focus for this year. It will be humidity controlled 24/7, as is so important for pianos (read my website!). All the pianos will be stabilised and thoroughly prepared by our care. Feurich is my current choice of supplier (est. 1851 in Germany), among other brilliant ideas they are the first brand in the world to introduce the famous Paulello nickel plated strings on all their grand piano models as well as the upright model 133. They could be referred to as “rust proof strings” (!!), and this has been a major consideration in my choice of supplier, for pianos that are much better suited to our harsh climate! The vision encompasses having enough space to host concerts in the shop, mostly classical. I know there are plenty of people out there who would want to gather for classical concerts in a cosy environment, especially with a great sounding piano. Providing I can find the right space, when the time is right we’ll have a shop opening concert! As I see it, Coffs Harbour is slowly moving towards a more cultured era, and I would like to contribute to it the way I can.

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SHINING A LIGHT

on the

ART'S Culture HERITAGE

OF THE MID NORTH COAST

et ready to celebrate all things arts and culture on the Mid North Coast with SHINE – a month-long celebration of creativity presented by Arts Mid North Coast, the peak body for arts and cultural development in the region. For the month of April, SHINE will feature events for all ages across the region with music, dance, art, exhibitions, films, workshops, museums and more. “Thanks to the NSW Government’s Art Restart Program, we were able to fund artists and organisations to stage special creative events and activities as part of this year’s SHINE program,“ said Kevin Williams, Director of Arts Mid North Coast. The SHINE Micro Grants program supported 25 projects on the Mid North Coast, from Tea

Gardens to Coffs Harbour and across different themes of Youth Arts, Creative Ageing and Heritage, as well as exciting new innovative events activating halls and public spaces. “We know the pandemic has had a considerable impact on our sector, and SHINE puts the spotlight on how important our creative sector is in the social and economic recovery of our region,” said Kevin, “We encourage the community to support our artists and creative organisations by participating, engaging and enjoying the arts and cultural activities on offer.” For the full SHINE program visit www. artsmidnorthcoast/shine or follow Arts Mid North Coast on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. SHINE has been supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW’s Art Restart Program.

Artist Ronnie Grammatica will be facilitating a smartphone photography workshop for young people at Open Studios, Coffs Harbour on 6 & 9 April during SHINE.

Shine CELEBRATING OUR CREATIVE COAST

April 2021 SHINE is a month-long program celebrating the arts, culture and heritage of the Mid North Coast, with special events for all ages including music, dance, art, exhibitions, f ilms, workshops, museums and more...

Proudly funded by the NSW Government through Arts Restart

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See the full program at www.artsmidnorthcoast/shine

Find us on:

15/3/21 4:12 pm

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Vanessa Larry Mitchell is a comedian that embodies both humour and heart. SHE SPENT MOST OF HER CAREER IN THE DISABILITY AND MENTAL HEALTH SECTOR BEFORE MOVING INTO STAND UP COMEDY, but she still finds time to use what she’s learnt from pu ing herself out there on stage to teach others public speaking, team building and personal development skills. focus_interview

L A R R Y

MITCHELL

ey Vanessa, tell us how you got into comedy? I think being nervous and putting yourself out of your own comfort zone is so important to personal development. I used to teach at TAFE but after a while, I almost became too comfortable with it and needed an opportunity to push myself. I ended up doing a comedy writing course with Mandy Nolan. I thought we just had to do our 5 minute set to our class at the end, but it turned out we had to do it in front of about 200 people at the Byron Bay RSL. I didn’t sleep for weeks before it. The nerves were next level, but the feeling of elation when we all got off stage was the best. It’s the all-time 48 COFFS COAST

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adrenaline high. What was the process to becoming a comedian and how did you come up with your comedy act? I did a few open mics here and there but there weren't really many opportunities for us to perform without travelling an hour or more. I decided to open my own comedy room and came up with my brand ‘Larry Laughs Loud’. I used to play roller derby and ‘Larry End’er’ was my derby name. Things have just taken off from there. I almost love the event planning as much as doing stand-up. It’s not the same level of adrenaline, but it still makes you feel good knowing you’ve been one of the reasons people have had a fun night out.

My content is all real life stuff. Lots of jokes and stories about dating, parenting or just being a woman. There’s a certain level of vulnerability that the audience wants from comedy, so I just hit them hard with honesty. A lot of women tell me that they feel ‘free’ after coming to my shows. How does it feel knowing you are bringing joy to others through something you’re passionate about? There is something magical that happens when a room full of people are all laughing in unison. I get tingles just thinking about it! There is so much f**d stuff going on in the world, so comedy really is an opportunity to just forget and be in the moment. People can tell how much I love it. That’s the beauty of comedy… people feed off the comedian’s energy as much as the comedian is feeding off the audience. Like zombies but without all the blood. You spent most of your career helping others in the disability sector and facilitating Mental Health First Aid training. What was the transition like from one career to another? I still facilitate Mental Health First Aid training and love trying to normalise conversations about mental health issues. Obviously, there is nothing funny about talking about depression or anxiety, but I manage to

keep the content light and engaging. A comedian Comedy has been who used to good for my own perform with Spike mental health. I’ve Milligan came up never been diagnosed a er the show to tell with a mental illness, but I’ve got no doubt me that my gag to that I probably had laughter ratio is way a performance night some kind of social higher than Spike’s. where they all had to anxiety when I was a That’s a pretty bloody get up and do a couple teenager. I used alcohol big compliment! of minutes of standand cigarettes as a way up. The skills that we of coping. Even though use before getting on I was popular through stage or speaking publicly are the same ones school, I never felt like I really fitted in. I hated that the fellas need to control their anxieties social norms. when running onto the field or when talking I was fairly promiscuous as a young woman to the media. The success of the day was and got ‘slut-shamed’, even by close mates. overwhelming. Now, most of my material comes from dating The personal growth that happens when experiences, so I’ve been able to turn things people push themselves out of their comfort completely around. It’s really empowering to zone, is instant. Their coaches were so have people pay money to hear my stories. If proud of them all and I was stoked with the you’re not being an arsehole, you should be feedback. able to do whatever you want and not have to What are some of the more memorable be ashamed of it. People need to chill out. I’ve gigs you have played? managed to find better mates. I love hosting all female lineups, particularly You are still helping others in different for International Women’s Day. Women as ways these days, by helping others build a collective can get pretty loose. When they confidence through team building and bring their husbands or partners, they can be public speaking workshops. Tell us about a bit reluctant to laugh at the filthy jokes. I the course you run. think it’s that ‘keeping up appearances’ thing I recently combined the two sessions to run that we put pressure on ourselves to maintain. a Personal Development workshop for the I’ve just finished my first solo shows at Noosa Tigers AFL team. The day ended with

Adelaide Fringe Festival. The show is called ‘Teardrops on My Dildo’ and I literally had people doubled over, crying from laughter. By the end of the hour people were exhausted. A comedian who used to perform with Spike Milligan came up after the show to tell me that my gag to laughter ratio is way higher than Spike’s. That’s a pretty bloody big compliment! You constantly tour the Coffs Coast. What is it about the Coffs Coast that keeps bringing you back? I’d really like to build a scene in Coffs like we’ve done in the Northern Rivers region. Comedy is such an important part of the arts scene and there needs to be more opportunities for new performers to get up and have a crack at it, particularly in regional areas. Where can we find out more? You can check out Larry Laughs Loud on Instagram or Facebook or my Vanessa Larry Mitchell Comedian page is where you can find all gigs I’m performing in. www.larrylaughsloud.com info@larrylaughsloud.com COFFS COAST

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H DJ IBEX Dj iBex moved to the Coffs Coast at the beginning of last year, just before lockdowns began, so you may not have had the opportunity to see him play just yet. But you can expect to see more of him from here on out!

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i iBex. You spent many years working in the hospitality industry, when did you start thinking about music as a career? After being in the Sydney hospitality scene for 11years, I was the 2iC for The Bourbon; booking DJ’s, bands, promoters etc. Over that last period being surrounded by a thriving scene, I thought; What could I take with me and utilise later on in life and really enjoy? The decision was clear and vivid. My love for music and what it created on dancefloors was the catalyst. I bought some decks and began to practice. With the help of friends, mentors and venue connections I landed small gigs in bars and clubs. Has music been something that you have always been passionate about? As early as 8 yrs old. My folks had a great selection of music, clearly rubbing off on me. From Santana, Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd, The Doors, Michael Jackson, Boney M, Earth Wind & Fire, Diana Ross, Kool & The Gang. I was often found with headphones on having fallen asleep on my bedroom floor listening to music. Years later, my first stereo system was given to me. Music or radio was usually always playing in our home. To me, what music does, is it transports me to a time that felt good, and new music keeps recreating that for me. How did you find the transition from hospitality to DJing? I think anyone who’s left one industry and gone into another, knows that it’s going to be tough. I did nearly 12+ months of free gigs, and practiced whenever I could, before I got a paid gig. But that’s when I’d be carrying turntables to gigs. I kept a day job, whilst working hard at it, but I really loved it, so it came a lot easier, still with perils and upsets. It was different entering a room, being that person who provided ‘the entertainment’. Like a friend of mine said, “no matter what

happens, just have a good time playing.” What have been some of your most memorable gigs so far? Bondi Winter Festival. After finishing my radio show, I was catching up with friends before another gig later that night. Having my headphones on, music in one hand, management noticed, approached me, asked if I wanted to play, as their DJ had not shown up. I said “yes sure.” A figure skater who put on this amazing show, had put their faith in me to come with a track for this solo show on the ‘fly’. I dropped this Chris Isaak vs Fatboy Slim remix of “Praise You”, the skater came up to me after and MY LOVE FOR couldn’t believe how MUSIC AND moved they were by the WHAT IT CREATED track. ON DANCEFLOORS How would you is Danger Waves, WAS THE CATALYST. describe your style he’s helped and been of music and what I BOUGHT SOME supportive throughout do you enjoy playing DECKS AND BEGAN the journey of moving up most? TO PRACTICE. here, so a massive shout What I enjoy playing out to him, and my old most is that of the deep friend Stu for putting him house/melodic house in touch with me. The genres, that lend themselves to deep driving Coffs Shire has really rubbed off on me, and basslines, melodic harmonies ending with is just an amazing place, I can say that having punchy progressive house finishes. The genres moved from a city, and couldn’t imagine living I play elevate me. I’m wanting to be captivated anywhere else. in sound, and progression with the odd vocal What sort of events/gigs do you mostly mixed in. I don’t have just one genre, it’s not play at, and what are your future plans? possible for me. The genres are what creates Currently I’m focusing on weddings, private the style and sound of what being a ‘DJ‘ is for events and birthdays. I’ll be speaking with me. No matter the occasion, being a ‘DJ’, I like market organisers, events coordinators and the to create cohesion regardless of genre. private sector with a new combined concept When did you move to the Coffs Coast and that’s different and is packaged to facilitate how has that been for your music career? easy setup for clients hiring the service. That’s I moved here in early Jan 2020, with my still in the works. I’ll be waiting to see what family. In the first few weeks of landing here, happens this year, if things go well, maybe soft I got in touch with a person who I consider launch for Spring...? a friend, from Forever Ever Productions. They Can you tell us a bit about your radio took a chance on me, it worked out. Things show? went really quiet soon after, due to lockdowns Every Thursday from 9pm-11pm you can etc, however we kept in touch. I’ve just come catch me ‘The iBex Switch’ on Influx Radio. A off the back of 4 gigs in the last month for fully live internet radio station that is based in 2021, so this year already has kicked off to England. The station only has live DJ’s, 47 in a great start. I’ve had the ability to build and total, on a weekly schedule. Which is backed showcase some new concepts, and bookings by some of the biggest names in the House are looking good for the distant future. scene globally. I’m one of 2 Australian DJ’s only The second person who has been great broadcasting live, and Mr Nige is located in

Canberra. The rest of the Influx Radio family are based in the US, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Dubai. They have a healthy following having been established since 2016. www.influxradio.co.uk/listen How did you first get into playing on the radio? I simply approached a DJ playing at the Bondi Markets one Sunday, and asked him: “how do I get a set at the market?“ He said, “you need a spot at the radio station!”, “well who’s the boss?” I replied, he said “ME!” I submitted my first ever radio demo and it was turned down. Though I was given a second chance to submit another. Two weeks to the day, I submitted that demo again, to which the reply was “what day would you like to play?” After that moment, I had a weekly show for 2 years, and that in turn opened up many doors. Where can people find out more about you and any upcoming gigs or shows? You can follow/listen www.instagram/theibexswitch www.soundcloud.com/theibexswitch www.mixcloud.com/theibexswitch www.influxradio.co.uk/listen website coming soon! For all bookings Events/Weddings/Birthdays/ Private/Corporate/Festivals e: theibexswitch@gmail.com COFFS COAST

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L to R: Coco Varma, Catherine Reynolds, Dave Horsley, Stephanie Abbott, Stephanie Sims (front), Dave Mansfield, Jane Tavener, Phil Nicholas. (Not pictured) Alison Page, Shane O’Brien.

BLACK L I G H T C O L L E C T I V E

BLACKLIGHT

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Introducing Coffs Harbour's new creative industries peak body, BLACKLIGHT COLLECTIVE, which aims to make the Coffs Coast the regional cultural capital of Australia in the next 10-15 years.

Over 2000 creative professionals live in the Coffs ow did BlackLight Collective come about? Coast. We want to ignite energy around the creative This time last year we were sector and be the catalyst for the arts, creative and locked down, the performing cultural industries to really take their place as one of arts was on the verge of collapse, the important pillars of the region’s future. We will cinemas were closing down, do this through advocacy, industry partnerships and creative work was drying up and nationally renowned creating experiences that converge, art, technology artists that live in Coffs Harbour had nowhere to and design. We want to both inspire change and be go... so what did we do? We got together and the change. started an organisation whose focus is to put our For the Coffs community, a more vibrant, town at the centre of a revitalised national creative humming creative economy means even more on economy. With remote working, cheaper housing offer in terms of exciting and migration from larger cities events, performances and to regional areas, our vision is festivals. This will help grow to illuminate, ignite and fuel Artists, emerging employment our diverse creative industries designers, opportunities and new to make Coffs Coast the musicians and others businesses. We’re just one part regional cultural and creative can provide innovative of a much bigger picture here, capital of Australia. but basically BlackLight wants ways to activate our Why here, and why now? to help create the conditions city so it flourishes The Coffs Coast is in a that allow these things to into the future, so the unique position to build a flourish. time is now for the robust, locally based creative And how will you do this? creative economy. economy – one that can What’s unique about stand proudly beside existing BlackLight Collective is industries and help define the our broader lens across the whole arts, culture future identity of the region. Australians typically and creative sectors. We hope to develop spend $6,600 each on overseas trips including strong partnerships with organisations already airfares. With international holidays likely off the working here, including specialist community arts cards for the remainder of 2021, it amounts to organisations, the education sector, government and a serious chunk of change that could flow into industry, to lift visibility across the whole sector. We domestic tourism. Each year, twice as many people in intend to influence community infrastructure and Australia visit a cultural event, experience or facility placemaking strategy, create jobs and deliver new than attend sporting events. and exciting experiences on the Coffs Coast. The creative economy can play a major role in What’s next for BlackLight? boosting hospitality and tourism. Artists, designers, To engage directly with the local arts, culture and musicians and others can provide innovative ways to creative communities to showcase their capability activate our city so it flourishes into the future, so the on our new website, which will act as a directory time is now for the creative economy. Internationally for those wanting to find and book artists and crew. renowned epidemiologist Dr Michael Osterholm There are some really exciting developments in the said in April last year that governments most need pipeline SO watch this space – living, working and ‘creative imagination’ to respond to the challenges playing on the Coffs Coast is about to get a whole thrown up by Covid, and Blacklight has listened to lot more exciting for everyone! this call to arms. What do you hope to achieve? www.blacklightcollective.com.au COFFS COAST

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music O U R

P I C K S

P L AY I N G I N A P R I L THIRSTY MERC

LISA HUNT Live at the Hoey Moey Sunday 4th April Doors open from 3:30pm Live at the Moonee Tavern Friday 9th April Doors open at 6pm $20 + BF

16 WHO'S CHARLIE

ASH GRUNWALD

Live at the Hoey Moey Thursday 22nd April Doors open from 6:30pm Tickets $45 + BF

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THE CHATS AC/DC CD TOUR Live at the Hoey Moey Friday 9th April Doors open from 6pm Tickets $35 + BF

Live at the Seaview Tavern - Friday 16th April FREE

art O U R

P I C K S

EXHIBITIONS APRIL

CLEVERMAN Exhibition at Yarrawarra

e are so excited to announce the opening of Cleverman Exhibition celebrating the groundbreaking and critically acclaimed Indigenous superhero series! Exploring First Nations storytelling, language and creativity in production design, costumes and props, this free exhibition invites audiences to listen-first and immerse themselves in a powerful contemporary expression Origin Stories. Where: Yarrawarra Cultural Centre until 11th April

THE WHITE BLUFF PROJECT

he White Bluff Project is a local artist-led art, science and community collaboration. White Bluff is a rocky headland on the north side of the regional city of Coffs Harbour, on Australia’s eastern seaboard. One painter’s 40-year creative association with the site has resulted in a group of artists coming together with scientists and community members to explore concepts of place, change and discovery. After three years of hard work, the

collaborative and creative outcomes from this project can be experienced by the public in this exhibition. Participants in The White Bluff Project include: Ray Rixon / Sarah Mufford / Mark George / Megan George / Terri Butterworth / Tori Donnelly / Joanne Elliott / John Van Der Kolk / Martin Van Veluwen / Jeremy Sheehan / Julie Nash / Ashleigh Frost / Chris Armstrong / Phil Greed / J P Willis / Greg Elks (Plant Ecologist) / Mark Graham (Ecologist) / Dr Karina Hall (Marine Scientist) / Dr Lisa Milner (Historian) Where: Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery until 22nd April

LOCAL FACES Portraits of local people

A FRESH CHANGE

he exhibition entitled “A Fresh Change” is an initiative from the Artspace Committee to showcase members who don’t get an opportunity to exhibit the fruits of their creativity on a regular basis. Amongst the group are fabric artists, ceramicists, photographers, painters, sculptors, glass artists, woodworkers and printmakers. The local artists included are: Bruce Champion, David Bromley, Parma Keft, Margot Thigpen, Ross Thompson, Gloria Malone, Sally Cantrill, John Tuckwell, Jodi Masters, Babs Atkins, Pete Gailey and Pingala Walsh. Where: Urunga Artspace until April 7th. We are open Monday till Saturday 10am-4pm.

njoy the latest exhibition “Local Faces“ at the Coffs Harbour Showground Gallery, artworks created by the Coffs Harbour Creative Arts Group members. Featuring Pastels, Acrylics, Watercolours, Drawing, Oriental Brush Painting, Art Prints, Porcelain, Calligraphy, Books, Mosaics and wonderful ‘off the wall’ pie Where: Creative Arts Group - Coffs Showground until 28th April Open Monday to Friday, from 10 am to 3 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.

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PERFORMANCES APRIL

MARGARET FULTON

THE JUNKYARD BEATS

he Junkyard Beats interactive workshop experience invites children/adults to band together to create their own Junkyard Orchestra. With Junkyard Beats workshops, children/adults will be taken on a creative journey of discovery, exploring the connection between creative recycling, music and teamwork. When Thursday 8th April Where Jetty Theatre Time 1:30pm Cost Show and Workshop Bundle: $35

THE MUSICAL

musical biography of a true Aussie legend based on her bestselling autobiography. As Australia’s first culinary queen, Margaret Fulton long reigned supreme in the country’s kitchens as she taught a growing nation how to cook. From quiches and scones to nasi goreng and creme brulee, her recipes revolutionised Australia’s palate from ‘meat and three veg’ to the flavours of the world. Based on her best-selling autobiography I

Sang for My Supper: Memories of a Food Writer, Margaret Fulton The Musical brings her inspiring true story to the stage. Charting Fulton’s rise from home cook to a household name in the swinging sixties, this playful musical comedy celebrates Australia’s coming of age through the lens of this wise trailblazing woman of the world. When 15th April Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com

SWIFF A TASTE OF IRELAND MUSIC & DANCE SENSATION

ot off its premiere New York City run in 2020 and with over 120 shows in 2019 across Australia and New Zealand, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ finally returns down under. Experience the performances that have brought the house down night after night around the world as ‘A Taste of Ireland’ wows audiences in 2021. Featuring acclaimed Irish dancers, dazzling folk musicians and contemporary vocalists, experience the raw, rhythmic passion that is the original story of the Celtic motherland. When Thursday 29th April Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com

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he Screenwave International Film Festival. Now in its sixth year, SWIFF has grown to be a flagship Mid North Coast cultural event which attracts visitors across Australia and around the world. Running for 16 days from April 14-29, SWIFF will host over 120 sessions, spanning the spectrum between entertaining and challenging feature films, making the festival accessible from casual movie lovers to die-hard cinephiles – and cementing its niche as a movie-watcher’s festival. For all Special Events ticket pricing, including Opening Night and Closing Night, please visit www.swiff.com.au for prices and conditions.

SWIFF x HILLTOP D E G U S TAT I O N W I N E D I N N E R

o you know what goes well with film? Food! Celebrate good company, great food and wine, and dive into a bespoke dining experience coming to the Screenwave International Film Festival (April 14-29). The inspired team behind The Hilltop Store and Hilltop At The Lodge, Chef Richie Dolan and Chef Carla Jones have teamed up with SWIFF festival directors to craft a unique culinary event, the SWIFFxHilltop Wine Degustation Dinner hosted for one night only at Osprey Restaurant (CHEC) on Wednesday night, April 21. Canapes on arrival will be followed by four courses of delectable, locally-sourced dishes with a creative, seasonal flair. Each of the five stages of the dining menu are paired with a matched wine, courtesy of Treasury Wine Estates, creating a sumptuous sizzle for the senses. While a dining event might seem a surprising addition to the Coffs Coast’s Heart of Film, SWIFF’s festival directors Kate Howat and Dave Horsley knew that the 2021 festival was the perfect opportunity to bring a new taste to SWIFF. Curating the festival side-bar program For the Love of Food, which celebrates the cinema of sustenance – from documentaries exploring truffle farming, desserts as fine art, and the power of community meals to break down cultural barriers – festival curator Kate Howat knew it was an opportunity to give audiences the time to break bread. “This April, SWIFF is all about coming

together. Community, friends, family, good conversation and great company are vital to the festival’s DNA. Nothing brings us together like food. We can’t wait to set the wine, and the conversation, flowing.” Chefs Carla and Richie are a husband-andwife team that met back in 2006 working together at Matt Moran’s prestigious Aria restaurant in Sydney. Since then, Richie opened and was head chef at Chiswick in Woollahra, and Carla was head chef and co-owner of 4Fourteen in Surry Hills, before moving home to Sawtell to raise a family together and open the now infamous Hilltop Store. In June 2020, the couple’s culinary prowess extended to a new venture, opening Hilltop At The Lodge at the newly renovated Bellingen Valley Lodge. These inspired chefs understand that a great meal isn’t just about the incredible food that ends up on the plate. Inspired and impassioned by sustainability, community, education and the Coffs Coast ecosystem, Carla and Ritchie will take the next generation under their wings in preparation for the event. Giving a group of TAFE hospitality students the chance to work with one of the area’s best kitchens, concocting the SWIFFxHilltop Degustation will include working with local sustainable farmers and growers – taking students through the entire process from seed to kitchen, manifesting meals that honour our unique environment. On the evening, hosted at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus’ Osprey Restaurant, guests will hear from the chefs, as well as winemakers, as they step outside of their comfort zones for a creative line-up of courses with paired vinos. A shared dining experience

limited to 10 round tables of 10 settings, this is an opportunity to enjoy conversation, make new friends, discuss food, film and the good things in life. The evening begins with bubbling Italian Prosecco and charming canapes, before diving into four courses of experimental taste combinations. These include an indulgent pairing of Penfolds Bin 311 with a hearty course of roasted prawns, salted grapes, coconut cauliflower soup and vadouvan spiced butter. Flavourful porchetta, sour cabbage, sweet apple and celeriac will be complemented by an oaky Pepperjack Malbec from Mendoza Argentina, while the autumnal delights continue with an aromatic Tasmanian Pinot Noir accompanying a duck terrine with unique lentil pomegranate vinaigrette. Topping off the meal with a twist is a final course of Pain D’epices, chocolate yogurt, prunes and gingernut ice cream with a South Australian Tawny to leave the senses thoroughly treated. This is a tasting menu inspired by the seasonal beauty and produce of the Coffs Coast, reflecting the ethos of The Hilltop Store, Treasury Wines, SWIFF and TAFE NSW. Indulge and enjoy an evening of pure, simple, delicious food and wine amongst good company – and top it off with a foodie feature at the Screenwave International Film Festival. All bookings for the SWIFFxHilltop Degustation Wine Dinner can be made via www.swiff.com.au. SWIFF runs from April 14- 29, bringing film, food, music and more one-of-a-kind experiences to the Coffs Coast. For full festival line-up, visit the website. COFFS COAST

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Kevin Hogan - The Nationals Anzac Day 2021 Looking forward to commemorating Anzac Day this year. Last year was very different, but still a very moving experience. We listened to the Service at the Australian War Memorial from home. Exciting things happening in the Northern Beaches I’m continuing to work with Council on the $1.1 million Woolgoolga Whale Trail upgrade which will be started soon. Major construction is also set to begin on the $23 million Woolgoolga Sports Complex this month. Also looking forward to seeing progress on the $1.8 billion Coffs-Harbour Bypass. All great things for our local community.

Leaders event at the new surf lifesaving club. Great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our primary and high school students. Guest speaker this year is Duane March. He has worked in amazing locations around the country such as the Great Barrier Reef and Raine Island and currently runs the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park in Coffs Harbour.

$1.1m Woolgoolga Whale Trail

I’ll also be hosting my annual School

starti n g soon! Kevin HOGAN MP Kevin HOGAN MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PAGE

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PAGE Find us on Facebook: Email: kevin.hogan.mp@aph.gov.au Kevin Hogan MP Lismore Offce: ph: 02 6621 4044 63 Molesworth St, Lismore Instagram: $1.1m Woolgoolga Whale Trail Grafton Offce: ph: 02 6643starting 3973 1/83A Prince St, Grsoon! afton kevin.hogan.mp Email: kevin.hogan.mp@aph.gov.au Lismore Offce: ph: 02 6621 4044

63 Molesworth St, Lismore

Find us on Facebook: Kevin Hogan MP Instagram: kevin.hogan.mp

Authorised by K Hogan MP, National Party of Australia - NSW, 63 Molesworth Stre t, Lismore NSW 2480

Grafton Offce: ph: 02 6643 3973

1/83A Prince St, Grafton

Authorised by K Hogan MP, National Party of Australia - NSW, 63 Molesworth Street, Lismore NSW 2480

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BRODIE &B BO OB BBY BY These two brothers have a competitive edge. WITH BASKETBALL AND SOCCER KEEPING BRODIE & BOBBY WILSON BUSY, YOU'LL FIND THEM TRAINING AROUND FIVE TIMES A WEEK, aiming towards their big sporting dreams.

i Brodie & Bobby. You boys spend a lot of time down at the basketball courts and soccer fields keeping active. Please introduce yourselves to

our readers. Hi, I’m Bobby Wilson. I’m 10, turning 11 later this year. I’m in year 5 at Narranga primary school. I was born on the Central Coast and moved to Coffs Harbour when I was one year old! I love living here as we can go to the beach, go camping and 4W driving and play lots of basketball. Hi, I’m Brodie Wilson, I’m 8, turning 9 in October. I’m in year 3 and also go to Narranga. I was born in Coffs Harbour and think it is such a great place to live. You've both been playing basketball for two years. Of all the familiar sports to choose from, what was it that had you hooked? Bobby - I started basketball when I was 60 COFFS COAST

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I just love both sports and I find it easy to swap between them because they are very different. I play soccer for the Northern Storm U9 team and also did 6 a side over the summer time. Soccer is my favourite.

in year 3. I tried Aussie Hoops to learn the game with some of my friends and then signed up for the Saturday comp to play for Narranga. I loved learning a new sport as it challenged me to learn new skills and how to play the game. It was fun playing with my friends and making new friends with kids from the different teams. I also play 3*3 hustle competitions on Monday nights which has helped me become a faster player and get better at my offensive moves. I play against my brother and love beating him on the court, but I also love teaching him new skills when we play. I’m now even more hooked as I play in the under 12’s representative basketball team for the Coffs Harbour Suns. We get to travel as

a team which is so fun! In a few weeks we get to go to Tamworth, Port Macquarie and Ballina to play. I am now great friends with Chase, Nathan, Noah and Lachie because we met through rep. Brodie – I started basketball two years ago. I don’t play as much as Bobby as I also play soccer. I do love basketball though, especially playing hustle against Bobby on Monday nights. I love to beat him and do crazy shots! I love running fast and stealing the ball. Brodie, you excel in soccer as well. How do you go flipping from holding a ball, to kicking one? I just love both sports and I find it easy to swap between them because they are very

different. I play soccer for concentrate on the Northern Storm U9 building our skills, team and also did 6 a side fitness and game over the summer time. play as we prepare Soccer is my favourite. for our upcoming You're both certainly starts we will play games in March, dedicated and soccer games on May and June. committed to your Saturdays and travel all sports. What type of over the Coffs Coast training is involved? playing against the Bobby – I train and play basketball 5 times different teams. I also like to practice in the a week. On Mondays I play in Hustle which house by kicking around a ball but Mum and is where you have four players and play on Dad don’t really like that too much. We also the half court. It’s really fast and you sweat have two dogs, Daisy and Belle, that think a lot. Tuesdays and Thursdays, we train for it’s a fun game to steal and make holes in my our rep games at Sportz Central for an hour ball! and a half. We concentrate on building our What new tricks have you been working skills, fitness and game play as we prepare at over the past 6 months and what are for our upcoming games in March, May and you most proud of about yourself and June. Sometimes I will also add in private your achievements? training sessions with North Coast Basketball. Bobby – I have been working hard on Saturdays are game days where we play as making smart plays in the game, being faster school teams against each other to try and and talking to my team mates on the court. I win the trophy. This goes for two terms, then am so proud of myself in achieving a place in we have a break and do the last two terms of the division 1 team for Coffs Harbour Suns. the year. Brodie – I have been working on kicking Brodie – I do basketball on Mondays the ball to my team mates and being able to and then soccer training at York Street on run the whole field with the ball and kicking Thursdays with the team. When the season it in the goal. I have also been learning the

positions in soccer. I am super proud of being in the Northern Storm soccer team and I hope to also play at a representative level soon. Who is your inspiration in the sporting world? Bobby – Stephen Curry who plays for the Warriors and Kyrie Irving for the Nets are my two favourite players and who I aspire to be like. I also have Robbie Linton who always inspires me to be my best and is my favourite coach (sorry Em). Brodie – I’m inspired by Stephen Curry too in basketball and always watch his matches with Dad. Ronaldo is my favourite soccer player by far. What are your dreams for the future? Bobby – I want to get better and better at basketball and be able to represent Australia at the Olympics one day. I also have a dream of getting to the NBA in America. Brodie – My dream is to have a one v one match against Cristiano Ronaldo and beat him in soccer. Thanks Boys. COFFS COAST

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AUTUMN ON THE

COFFS COAST EXPLORE | DISCOVER | PLAY

Montem Bike Tours

Watch the sun come up over the ocean on an early morning guided tour, enjoying a ride along the coastline.

Coffs Harbour Butterfly House Stroll amongst hundreds of Australian butterflies in an indoor subtropical rainforest and say hello to the friendly dinosaurs!

Treetop Adventure Park

Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Big Banana Fun Park

Giingan Cultural Experience

Climb, weave and fly through the treetops on the self-guided rope courses and zip lines at Sealy Lookout.

Visit Australia’s original ‘Big Thing’ with toboggan rides, laser tag, mini golf, ice skating, giant slides and more!

Take a drive to explore hidden waterfalls, swimming holes, rolling pastures and meet the friendly locals.

Enjoy this award-winning Indigenous cultural tourism experience at Sealy Lookout in the Orara East State Forest.

HWH Stables

Discover the shoreline of Boambee Beach or ride the rivers of the Orara Valley hinterland - all on horseback.

Solitary Islands Coastal Walk This spectacular 60km coastal walk follows the gorgeous beaches and headlands from Red Rock to Sawtell.

C–Change Adventures

Enjoy the pristine waterways kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddling - or book an Eco Tour to discover more.

Find more fantastic things to do today on coffscoast.com 62 COFFS COAST

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#coffscoast #naturallyconnected #holidayherethisyear #lovensw

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t LIFE

S A L LY C A N T Y

Sally Canty specialises in a very different kind of natural medicine. I was absolutely fascinated by her business called Placenta Life - I had to know more.

ally, what exactly is your business about? Placenta Life is dedicated in supporting new mothers wishing to benefit from using their placenta to boost their postnatal recovery. I specialise in preparing and dehydrating the placenta which is then ground down into a fine powder and placed into “easy to swallow“capsules. There are different types of preparation and methods which are detailed on my website. Giving birth is such a significant event, but those first days and weeks of motherhood are just as important! I am passionate about helping to nourish and heal new mothers during this fourth trimester. What are the main benefits of taking the capsules? New mothers who have their placenta encapsulated consistently report improved mood and increased energy levels when taking their placenta capsules. They also find the capsules support a healthy breast milk supply. I think that if the placenta can play such a crucial role in pregnancy by providing essential nutrients for your growing baby then why not benefit from these rich nutrients and minerals after your baby is born. What other products do you make from the placenta? I can supply Face Creams, Balms for both mother and baby, and also Tinctures. With

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every Placenta Encapsulation I also offer a certified as a Placenta Remedies Specialist and complimentary Placenta Print and umbilical have not looked back! I set up Placenta Life and cord keepsake which new mums love! have a purpose-built room which I work from. How are we lucky enough to have you How do you approach the mothers to here on the Coffs Coast - what is your discuss and what reactions do you get? background and what led you to setting All my bookings are mainly word of mouth up Placenta Life? and repeat clients. I was actually Many first reactions working in the Airline from people who Many first reactions Industry for 15 years. have never heard from people who have In 2015 we moved of consuming the never heard of consuming the to Ireland where our placenta are “eww, placenta are "eww, gross!" second daughter was gross!“ But quickly, But quickly, most people born. After struggling most people come come around when they hear with low milk around when they of the benefits and especially supply after my first hear of the benefits when they hear testimonials pregnancy I decided and especially when from mothers who've actually to try encapsulation they hear testimonials tried this holistic approach to the second time from mothers who‘ve postpartum health. around. The actually tried this difference between holistic approach to my postpartum experiences was phenomenal. postpartum health. My milk was not only in abundance, but I had How can people find out more? so much more energy looking after a newborn There is more information on products this time around (even with a toddler at my and processes on my website. There is also a feet!). My skin glowed and my iron levels were contact form on my website, just pop in your high after being significantly low in the last details and I can send through an Information trimester. I knew then that I wanted to become Pack and Booking Form. Otherwise you can just a Placenta Encapsulation Specialist so I could email me: hello@placentalife.com.au offer other mothers this same experience. We www.placentalife.com.au/ were lucky enough to move back to the Coffs www.instagram.com/_placenta_life/ Coast 5 years ago. I did the training to become /www.facebook.com/Loveplacentalife

WARM WATER

EXERCISE The Perfect Elixir

with AARON HARDAKER

ith the weather outside so unpredictable of late, ranging from steaming hot to sopping wet, it’s common for many of us to find a range of excuses to avoid exercise. The decrease in activity often leads to more pain from your arthritic joints, weight gain and a general decrease in your overall wellbeing. So, what if there was an ideal way to exercise in comfort, reduce your pain levels, and increase your strength and flexibility? The good news is there is! We caught up with Candy Williams and Bree Cavanagh, Exercise Physiologists at Mid North Coast Physio, to find out how to look after yourself by exercising in a different way. Why can hydrotherapy be so helpful for my aching joints? If you suffer from general aches and pains, regularly complain of a bad back, or you’re sick of hip and knee pain, then hydrotherapy is ideal. Exercising in chest-deep warm water reduces the load on aching bodies by up to two thirds of your body weight. This allows you to move more freely in the water than would normally be possible on land. Something we often hear from our clients in the pool is “Wow! I would never be able to do this on land!”

How does it work? Hydrotherapy can be beneficial for such a wide and varied range of acute and chronic health and musculoskeletal conditions including arthritis, post-surgery rehabilitation and back pain, along with neurological and balance issues. It’s the properties of water itself that contribute to water-based exercise being such a beneficial form of treatment for rehabilitation – mainly the buoyancy, the warmth and the resistance of the water. Can I do hydrotherapy at MNC Physio? Yes. The great news is we have our own private hydrotherapy pool in our Woolgoolga clinic, the only privately-owned clinic with this available in our region. Our classes are small and individualised to ensure you get the attention you deserve while getting the most out of each session. How do I get started? If you want to reduce pain and improve movement, strength and balance, contact the friendly team at Mid North Coast Physiotherapy NOW. For this month only, Coffs Coast Focus readers can get your Initial Hydrotherapy Assessment and Program for FREE (save $99). There are only 10 spots available so call 1300 27 37 47 now to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. COFFS COAST

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STRONGMAN Competitive Strength Sports are both mentally and physically demanding. Beau Gibson & Lindsay Devery have been dedicating their time taking training to the next level, and are now set to compete in the Strongman Competition this June. Together with their trainer Jack Davey, they talk to us about what is involved.

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B E AU, JAC K A N D L I N D SAY

indsay – can you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about you. I was born and bred in Southland, New Zealand. Once I left school, I did a number of random jobs including abattoirs, petrol stations and even a pig farm!! I decided to become a Dive Instructor and did a 12-month course at Dive Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. This is where I started at the gym only a couple days a week. I then married my high school sweetheart, Sarah. Sarah and I moved to Coffs Harbour in 2012 and we were both lucky to get jobs in our professions. Sarah as a Physiotherapist and myself as a PADI Scuba Diving Instructor at Jetty Dive Centre. Nearly 10 years later Sarah and I have a beautiful family with Ahana who is four and Edward who is one. Beau – can you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about you. I grew up in Scone NSW, a small town in the Upper Hunter region, finished school there before completing extra study in Newcastle to become a qualified Personal Trainer. I then moved to Lismore to study a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science with Southern Cross University and finished my studies in Coffs Harbour SCU campus. I am currently working out of Marquee Fitness

There are over 100 different possible events in Strongman. This is one of the things that makes it so appealing, the huge variety in events and training possibilities.

Gym in Coffs Harbour and really enjoying working there. You are both preparing to compete in a Strongman Competition in June – what exactly is ‘Strongman’ and how is it different from regular weight training? Unlike regular weight training which uses barbells, dumbbells and machines Strongman uses all of these plus a large range of unique implements! Strongman has a huge variety of events such as... • Heavy rocks of varying sizes and weights depending on weight divisions. These are loaded onto platforms! • Kegs filled to varying weights with anything from beer, sand and cement. The lighter divisions getting liquids and the heavyweights having to lift the concrete. These kegs are loaded onto platforms, run with or pressed overhead! • Handles held in each hand, loaded with weight for a great test of grip strength and either walked over short distances for max weight or fastest speed.

• Wooden logs or metal log replicas lifted to the shoulders and pressed overhead! These are just a few of the events commonly contested in Strongman with weights and distances changed to suit each weight category for Males and Females. Strongman competitions involve people from all walks of life of all ages, weight and backgrounds! There are over 100 different possible events in Strongman. This is one of the things that makes it so appealing, the huge variety in events and training possibilities. While on the outside Strongman can look intense, anyone can begin to train it and become stronger, fitter and leaner as every Strongman event is scalable to any strength level! Strongman even has Masters divisions. Lifting weights is good for almost every aspect of your health. Strongman gives you that plus a fun environment with new and exciting challenges each session and competition! Continued over... COFFS COAST

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What made you decide to get into this style of sport? Lindsay – I had always loved training at the gym but I noticed I started to lose a bit of drive/interest on why I was going there. I had known Jack Davey (Fenrir Strength Owner) ever since moving here, as I worked for his parents and I knew he was doing Strongman training, I then decided to give it a crack about 4 years ago. Beau – I had already been training for about 7 years before getting into Strongman style. I came across Fenrir Strength on Instagram, I was intrigued, and I heard a couple of other people talking about it so I thought I’d give it a go. The vibe at Fenrir, plus Jack’s coaching, made it such a positive and motivating environment. Everyone that trains there is always so friendly and encouraging. I have been training Strongman style for the past 8 months now and I am very much enjoying it. Talk to us about your nutrition and preparation leading up to the event and will this change the closer you get? Beau – In regard to nutrition, we both don’t follow a meal plan, I just make sure I eat enough to be fuelled, but keep an eye 68 COFFS COAST

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The vibe at Fenrir, plus Jack’s coaching, made it such a positive and motivating environment. Everyone that trains there is always so friendly and encouraging.

on our weight as I am competing in the under 105kg division. With our busy schedules an example of an easy meal for me throughout the day is beef mince and white rice, chicken and sweet potato, grilled chicken burgers, plenty of smoothies with berries, milk, protein powder, ice cream and the occasional (but still quite regular) KFC. We consider ourselves KFC-fuelled athletes. Both of us have a fast metabolism so I can be quite flexible with what we eat. Mental preparation is also important, how do you prepare for this coming into a competition? Jack – Preparing for a competition mentally is all about making sure you have all your small details sorted out. If you have a plan in place for the day, have trained for the events properly and know exactly what you will be eating and when you will be doing it to stay fuelled up throughout the day you will be prepared. When you have prepared absolutely everything prior to the day and have a few

backup plans in case things change during the event that leaves far less things to stress about on the day. This way when it comes to competition day mental preparation is as simple as staying as relaxed as possible and conserving energy whenever you are not lifting. When the time comes to start warming up you switch on. You focus. It is like flicking a switch. You give the event all your attention and energy to absolutely give it everything you have. After the event you flick that switch off and go back to being as relaxed as possible, sticking to your plan for the day until the next event starts. That’s it! Both of you are training with Jack Davey at Fenrir Strength. Talk us through your training program and how he motivates you. Lindsay – I train with Jack twice a week in a group Strongman session that he runs on Tuesdays and Fridays at 5:30pm. Jack is an inspiration and it still amazes me how he fine tunes each person on these days, helping with technique and fixing issues straight away. Leading up to the competition I will do

I always try and beat a previous PB and Jack always said you’re best to save all your PB’s for competitions as this is when you’re at your peak in your training cycle.

extra Personal Training sessions with him to practice some of the events in that competition. Jack motivates me a lot as his training program and diet he has for himself is next level. The fitness industry, Strongman and Strength training is Jack’s life and he’s bloody good at it! Beau – I train with Jack 3 times a week. Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday. Tuesday will always start with an Overhead Log Press for specified sets and reps at a prescribed target weight. Then move onto a loaded carry event. There are many variations to carry work but a general structure will be to hit a target amount of metres at a specified weight. For example a 100kg Sandbag Carry for 20 metres as fast as possible. Wednesday consists of upper body supplementary work. Generally Bench Press and Chinups again for sets, reps and weight that Jack has prescribed. Friday will start with an Overhead Axel Bar Press. Then we will move onto either atlas stones or deadlifts.

Jack has an abundance of knowledge and experience in regards to training, especially strongman. He always sets a solid plan of attack in preparation for a comp both mentally and physically. Jack is a people person and really knows how to get the best out of each individual that trains at Fenrir Strength. Going into the comp what goals do you have set for yourself? Lindsay – The main goal I set for myself is to put in 110% on each event as if I won’t do it again. If there is a certain event that has a max weight to be done, I always try and beat a previous PB and Jack had always said you’re best to save all your PB’s for competitions as this is when you’re at your peak in your training cycle. Beau – Goals I have set for myself are to stay positive throughout the day, enjoy myself, have some fun, put in a solid effort in each event, stay relaxed in between events and

always get fired up right before events so I’m set and ready to go and leave nothing on the tank. When you are not training, what do you get up to? Lindsay – Through Covid last year I started to make wooden Strongman Logs mainly for myself but now has become an extremely popular hobby! I have made 7 logs so far and sold them throughout Australia. My brand name is Fenrir Logs, I picked this name from Jack’s business as he was the one that got me into this crazy sport. Spending time with my beautiful family is top of the list for sure. I work for Jetty Dive Centre, so I am either teaching people to dive, driving the boats or in the shop servicing regulators. Beau – I work a fair bit at Marquee Fitness Gym doing PT, fitness classes and reception work. And I also enjoy the occasional stroll on the beach with my dogs and watch several Nicolas Cage movies weekly. As well as weekly chores my girlfriend has scheduled for me throughout my free time. Thanks Guys. COFFS COAST

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Womens REPRODUCTIVE

CARE Meet the 3 Obstetricians and Gynaecologists at Womens Reproductive Care. A/Prof Harvey Ward, Dr Aaron Budden and now introducing Dr Meenu Sharma.

/Prof Harvey Ward as the Practice Principal offers the women of the North Coast Private obstetric care 24/7, Fertility management through to Assisted Reproductive Technology in the form of IUI (intrauterine insemination) and is affiliated with IVF Australia and Hunter IVF. He maintains a special interest in urogynaecology and looks after women having to manage prolapse and incontinence. Dr Aaron Budden is particularly keen to promote his chosen special interest field of pelvic pain and minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. This includes management of endometriosis, laparoscopic hysterectomy and he operates in both private and public hospitals. He sees patients in a broad range of gynaecology at Womens Reproductive Care and sees obstetric patients at the Base Hospital. Dr Meenu Sharma is a general gynaecologist who can assist with a wide range of women’s health concerns. Her main clinical interests are benign gynaecology including menstrual disorders, fibroids, PCOS, premenstrual syndrome, management of ovarian masses in pre- and post-menopausal women, colposcopy, contraception gynaecological surgery for benign conditions (such as hysterectomy, ovarian cystectomy, salpingoophrectomy), hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, prolapse repair, vaginal hysterectomy, medical and surgical management of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy), management of post-menopausal bleeding, and management of benign vulvar disorders. She is seeing Gynae patients each week at Womens Reproductive Care and obstetric patients in Grafton and Macksville public hospitals. The Practice now has an ultra modern 3D and 4D Ultrasound and we will soon be seeing patients for early pregnancy scans and all kinds of gynaecological scans. Womens Reproductive Care is about to celebrate its 9th year at the Specialist Medical Centre on 10 April 2021. 70 COFFS COAST

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Fertility

HUNTER IVF & IUI We are delighted to be associated with the world renowned IVF Australia team specifically Hunter IVF, with scanning for them being provided in our rooms prior to travelling there for ovum pick ups and embryo transfers.

ometimes nature needs a little help and our Practice offers up to date expertise on Intrauterine Insemination in our rooms under ultrasound guidance for the best results! At WRC we have been helping families expand for over 10 years and for selected couples (and singles!) we recommend between 3-6 cycles and provide expert advice on how best to prepare for these well researched procedures. Success depends on many factors, mum’s age, ovarian reserve and all of these are investigated thoroughly before to optimise treatment and of course maximise results! New research has focussed on pre-existing conditions like endometriosis and the role of its treatment before embarking on the fertility pathway and we are well placed to integrate our experience in both these fields at WRC. We collaborate with IVF units both north and south of us depending on the couple’s needs so please don’t hesitate to let us know your preference! A wonderful follow-on from our interest in Fertility is of course the pregnancies that result and we are more than happy and privileged to support, manage and finally celebrate the birthday of each precious little baby! So, all in all, we offer the full spectrum of services from preconception to post-natal care. A/Prof Harvey Ward

Cervical

Ultrasound

SCREENING TEST

IN PREGNANCY

(CST) Abnormal Results change @ 1/2/21. The cervical screening program in Australia has undergone some changes recently.

hen the new screening program was introduced, women with Human Papillomavirus non 16/18 strains and normal cells or low grade changes were classified as intermediate risk and recommended to have a repeat test at 12 months. The previous guideline was to refer women for colposcopy (a diagnostic procedure to examine a magnified view of the cervix) after second HPV test done at 12 months with intermediate risk. The new recommendation is that women will undergo another cervical screening test at 12 months after a second HPV test shows intermediate risk. This means women now will only be referred for colposcopy after a third abnormal HPV test rather than second HPV test, thereby reducing the need for additional procedures. We are often asked if there is a risk in this change of recommendations. Whilst we know the growth of pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions of the cervix is slow, recent analysis of local Australian data has demonstrated that women who remain at intermediate risk at their second cervical test have a low risk of developing high grade precancerous lesions and therefore can have safely another HPV test at 12 months without needing to have a colposcopy There are some exceptions to this change. Some women are at higher risk of developing pre-cancerous lesions of the cervix including women over 50 years old, those more than 2 years overdue for cervical screening, and those who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. In these circumstances, you will be referred for colposcopy after the second screening test with an intermediate result. All gynaecologists at Womens Reproductive Care are available for consults regarding Abnormal CST results. Dr Meenu Sharma

Like every test and appointment that is offered in pregnancy, there is no ultrasound that is compulsory.

t is however one of the best tests in pregnancy and the chance to see the little miracle in motion is unreal. And whilst any parent can tell you how great it is to see your baby on the screen, there are a couple of other key times and reasons to consider an ultrasound. 1. Early Pregnancy Ultrasound – commonly referred to as a dating scan, is recommended to be undertaken between 6-9 weeks gestation. Whilst it can help estimate a due date where the menstrual cycle is long or irregular, it more importantly confirms the pregnancy is inside the uterus and continuing to grow. This way a non-growing pregnancy can be identified early and the danger of ectopic pregnancy (outside the uterus) can be managed sooner. 2. First trimester Anatomy Scan (Nuchal Translucency scan) – offered between 11.5 – 13.5 weeks along with blood tests, this ultrasound originally served to provide a risk assessment for chromosomal anomalies like Down Syndrome. Now it can offer a whole lot more including detection of early development issues for the foetus such as abdominal wall and spine. When combined with an additional blood test (placental like growth factor) and measurement maternal blood pressure, it can provide a risk assessment for Pre-Eclampsia and Pre-term birth. If you are unclear about what tests can be offered in pregnancy and the value of these tests please discuss it with you family doctor or if still in doubt seek specialist input. Dr Aaron Budden COFFS COAST

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Marlins S CU

RUG BY

Chris Rowthorne and AJ Gilbert from the SCU Marlins joined us for an interview.

hris - as the new president of SCU MARLINS RUGBY, please introduce yourself and share a little about your role within the club. My name is Chris Rowthorne and I am the 2021 president of the Marlins Rugby Club. I help coordinate all the offfield requirements, which allows the players on the field to play the great game of Rugby Union. We are a small committee of passionate and dedicated people who do an enormous amount for the club. The hard work of the committee, volunteers and generous sponsors is partly why the club is thriving. The talented playing group on the field, proudly wearing the Marlins jersey, is the other key ingredient for our success. Rugby is a fantastic sport for both women and men, young and old. What is it about the club that draws people here each year? The famous Marlins culture. Our club has three core values; Inclusiveness, Development and Culture. The history is colourful, the rivalry with our Rugby cousins across town is legendary and our success on the field – especially in juniors is exceptional. We are usually the underdogs, but we consistently get results. After 12 years of success, 2021 has seen changes within the club? We are very excited to be fielding 5 new junior teams as well as girls sides in the Crusaders Competition played at Bayrange Rugby Park in 2021. We have combined with the Barbarians club and their dedicated parents/ 74 COFFS COAST

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We have a long history of developing young players who move to Sydney or beyond to pursue their Rugby career.

coaches and players. We plan to emulate our success in the senior competition and introduce the next generation to Rugby. For those that love to take their sport to the next level, are there any comps that you guys get involved in around the state? Rugby is a global sport and we have players and coaches with Australia, NSW and international experience. We have a long history of developing young players who move to Sydney or beyond to pursue their Rugby career. AJ you’re Director of Rugby – tell us about your history and role with the SCU Marlins? I started playing when I was 12 years old in Dorrigo and Rugby has taken me all around the world. I’ve played all forms of the game, from junior to professional. As Rugby Director I’m responsible for The Marlins Rugby program; including recruitment, development and management of players and Coaches. It’s a busy and time-consuming job but with our volunteers and committee, we get through. What sets the Marlins apart from other clubs you’ve played/coached at? All clubs I’ve been involved with have been great. They’ve all had core values that reflect the Core Values of Rugby. The Marlins Core Values are Inclusiveness, Development and Culture. It doesn’t matter what your age, skill level, gender, race or beliefs are, you’re welcome at

the Marlins and we back our program to make you a better player. You’ve been with the club for some years, what are your highlights and who has impressed? It is difficult to single anyone out, but a playing highlight was when we won the First Grade Premiership in 2017. As a coach, I love seeing players develop and progress, like watching Lachy Miller play for the Australian 7s or Kaitlan Leaney making the NSW Women’s Waratahs. Locally seeing the improvements in our juniors as they make the representative teams. The satisfaction is huge to know you have helped a kid achieving their rugby dreams. Both you and Chris speak about the culture at the club. What do you mean by that? Culture covers everything both on and off field. It can be little things like respecting the referee or cleaning change rooms after the games. The fact that most of our coaches in the age group teams are current senior players wanting to give back to the club illustrates that culture. If it’s positive for Rugby and the Marlins Rugby Club then it aligns with our core values. For anyone looking to join in and give it a go, where can they find out more? Simply get in touch via the Marlins Facebook page and come join the Marlins Family. We train Tuesdays and Thursdays at the rugby fields at SCU on Hogbin Drive.

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FAMILY HOME

M A K E S M O R E S E NS E N OW T H A N E V E R

Current economic conditions in Australia favour those looking to sell property – but this “perfect storm” may not last for long.

fter a tough 12 months for the Australian economy, recent data has revealed a surprising trend: houses are gaining value right across the country. According to CoreLogic, prices have been rising since late 2020. In quarter ending January 2021, the national house price rose 3.4 per cent, buoyed by significant gains in the smaller capital cities. Both Sydney and Melbourne showed decent growth in the quarter ending January 2021 at 2 per cent and 2.1 per cent respectively. It’s not just the sale price, it’s also the sales volumes that have increased. Sales volumes have increased by a whopping 20.7 per cent in the 12 months to January 2021. And analysts expect the nationwide growth to continue in 2021. CoreLogic’s Head of Residential Research, Eliza Owen, told the ABC that a combination of low interest rates, improved consumer sentiment and ongoing coronavirus stimulus measures would fuel further rises. Kate Melrose, Ingenia’s General Manager of Project Sales, calls current conditions “the perfect storm” for those wishing to cash out of the family home. “The low interest rates really are underpinning the property sector and encouraging people to buy at the moment,” she says. “Auction clearance rates are back at pre-COVID levels, and we’re seeing really solid price escalation.”

But Melrose warns the mid-term outlook is to take control of their financial future by much less certain. “Australia has been incredibly capitalising on the unprecedented market resilient: we’ve stepped out of recession and activity. unemployment’s been OK. But what’s going to What’s more, after the social isolation many happen when government programs wrap up felt during COVID, more and more people in 2021? How will that affect unemployment are seeking a community with likeminded and people’s willingness to neighbours where they take on debt?” can do as much or as What’s more, little as they choose. Older many of those facing And those who Australians unemployment may need subsequently choose to who cash out of the financial support from move into community their retirement-aged living under the landfamily home now parents. lease model, such as will be in a better “Older Australians who an Ingenia Lifestyle position to help cash out of the family community, can keep their kids if and home now will be in a more of that money in when it’s needed. better position to help the bank. their kids if and when it’s That’s because Ingenia needed. They will also be Lifestyle residents own ready to enjoy travel again when the vaccine their houses but lease the land on which they makes it possible,” notes Melrose. sit. As a result, the initial purchase price is much Additionally, Melrose points out that lower than comparable homes elsewhere. And Australia’s high per-capita immigration rate many residents can access government rental has traditionally been supportive of property assistance to offset the cost of renting the land. prices. “But immigration has all but ceased as a “There’s a mental freedom that comes from result of COVID. The implications of that don’t having more money in the bank,” says Melrose. seem to have flowed through to the housing “In times like these, having that sort of financial market yet, but we’re expecting them to when flexibility is incredibly valuable.” immigration picks up again.” Learn more about how you can release We have experienced record high enquiry the equity from your home and enjoy a more levels, which has been very encouraging for secure future. Call the team at Plantations by downsizers. Those how have been deferring Ingenia Lifestyle on 0448 714 021 or go to their decision to downsize are now looking liveinwoolgoolga.com.au. COFFS COAST

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focus_contributor.

Look Good FEEL GOOD with CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

We are all definitely well and truly over living with and thinking about Covid! Here on the Coffs Coast we went through bush fires, leading onto the shock of a worldwide pandemic and now most recently, we have the drama of storms and mass flooding. Talk about having to gather your strengths and soldier on!

et’s all start like seeds and try to flourish and bloom into less stressed and happier people. We know what we can achieve, let’s all have some sort of plan. Apart from looking after ourselves, we really need to lose any sort of sense of entitlement and focus on being grateful for what we have. It’s about helping us all to survive. Not necessarily on a monetary level, just care more! Yes! Starting with yourself, and your immediate family, let’s take care of each other. Your family is not necessarily your blood; it can be anyone that you love or loves you unconditionally. Look at your circles, this being you and your family, then your friendship groups moving onto looking out for people in general. If you start with looking after yourself you are then able to have more energy to help others. This leads to feeling better about you and it starts the whole FEEL GOOD process. It all starts with you! 1. Start with looking after your physical health. I am a shocker at getting regular checkups, but I am going to push myself harder to get healthier. We all have good and bad traits, that’s normal but let’s face it, if this virus wasn’t a wakeup call... you’ve seriously been asleep!! There are some amazing sources that provide services to monitor our health. 76 COFFS COAST

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One we discovered just recently. We noticed alone. Small amounts of stress are common a Men’s Health Check Van parked outside but large doses affect your health. Difficult the Sawtell RSL on this occasion. It’s run and thoughts or feelings can make it hard to focus funded by the Rotary Club. There was a queue on what’s important and move forward. Don’t waiting to go into the van, including the try to do this alone. Talk to someone, if you husband, who got a free blood pressure, sugar get the ‘Are You OK’ call… don’t grin and and cholesterol checkup. bear it… Admit you’re not Fantastic service that could fine and accept some help. help save lives! Many entities can help eg: We all have good This situation has made Lifeline 13 11 14. and bad traits, us all vulnerable and our 4. Finally, this is for all that’s normal but let’s vices have reared their ugly of us. As I mentioned, face it, if this virus heads! If you’re drinking we have been restricted wasn’t a wakeup call.. too much or have any socially and for some who you’ve seriously substance abuse problems, were introverted before been asleep!! There call and talk to someone. this even started, with our are some amazing AA 1300 222 222 or new freedom to mingle, sources that provide National Alcohol and other anxiety kicks in. This is services to monitor Drug Hotline 1800 250 where we can help each our health. 015. Just calling someone other. Join a health club to will make you feel better get fitter, but take a less and more in control with your life. confident person with you. Join your friends 2. Address your diet, don’t attempt to go for a meal or have a dinner party but invite on a rabbit food trip but start with easing up the friend that you’ve lost contact with for on the sugar and and salt. Definitely kick the a while. Starting a beach walking or hobby likes of Junk Food to the kerb! I am stating group encourages people who don’t usually the obvious but make water one of your best socialise much. These types of groups are not friends! so confrontational and easier for them to get 3. Looking after your mental health. out and about. There are lots of groups and Stress and anxiety means feeling troubled or clubs to join that offer so much and are free threatened by life. Just remember you’re not of charge.

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Welcome Dental would like to introduce

ell us a little about yourself? Dentistry has always been my passion and a dream job. I have always been studying Dentistry with excitement and dedication intending to get a deep multifaceted understanding of the subject. That is why I, probably, got back to the student’s desk and I am currently broadening my knowledge and expertise in the field of the implant dentistry. But what many people do not know about me that outside of Dentistry I have a profound interest to technical advances and I’m a true tech enthusiast. You might find me as a person to debate about artificial intelligence and virtual reality. I also enjoy travelling and always open to learn new things about other cultures and their unique history. What are you currently studying? I am currently studying dental implants as a postgraduate degree in the University of Sydney. This course gives a great insight into modern approach to replace missing teeth with dental implants. Dental implants can also improve retention of removable dentures.

We’ll turn that frown upside down.

OLEG

PUSHKAREV What are your interests in dental? What are your hobbies outside of work? I’m keen on performing complex dental I enjoy the great Australian outdoors so treatments that much. Every time require broad I have a chance, I I’m keen on performing professional go bushwalking, complex dental knowledge and hiking. There are so treatments that require technical skills. I am many great places broad professional enjoying returning to explore. As I knowledge and technical beautiful smiles mentioned before skills. I am enjoying returning to my patients by I am a huge tech beautiful smiles to my placing aesthetically enthusiast. My latest patients by placing pleasing veneers, hobby is 3D printing. aesthetically pleasing veneers, restoring grinded teeth with restoring grinded Best dental tip? solid dental restorations and teeth with solid dental Make sure you look providing advanced root restorations and at indicator bristles of canal treatment. providing advanced your toothbrush, and root canal treatment. replace it when they My other professional strength is the ability are bleached, rather than when they start to help anxious patients to overcome looking splayed and frayed. A toothbrush their fears and transform their attitude to with worn bristles cannot effectively reach Dentistry to a positive one. and clean teeth and gums.

Services.

Late nights Open Saturdays Online bookings Orthodontic treatments Childrens therapist Bulk billing CDBS AirFlow

We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you soon. Our phone number remains the same but our email address has changed.

Meet The Team. Dr Sharon Marinucci Dr Margaret Kleinig Dr Mindie Nguyen Dr John Wills Dr Oleg Pushkarev Dr Tony Kershaw Wendy Summerill Jessica Cantrill

Phone: (02) 6655 5800 Email: info@welcomedental.com.au Website: www.welcomedental.com.au COFFS COAST

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Circle

GIRLS Young ladies involved in Girls Circle have the opportunity to build trust within their group and develop an openness to more mindful communication. The social/ emotional skills emphasised here at Circle of Girls run by Julie & Kimberlee will help serve young ladies as they navigate life ahead.

i Kimberlee & Julie. As locals of wonderful Bellingen, you have a deep connection to the area. Please share a little about yourselves and your backgrounds with our readers. Kimberlee – I’m originally from Canada and made my way to Australia in my 20’s. I didn’t expect to settle in Australia, but ended up raising my three children here, spending time in VIC and QLD before coming to this area where I lived in intentional communities for many years while my children were young. I’ve been here for 18 years now. My daughter and sons are now 23, 21 and 17; only one is left at home and that’s not for long! I’ve been a seal biologist in America, worked with giant clams in the Solomon Islands, flown hot air balloons, taught English in South Korea, to name a few of my adventures – all before children. I’ve spent the years since growing children and vegetables and transforming into a mental 78 COFFS COAST

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In my work I come across countless young girls who feel lonely, lack in confidence, feel shame about their changing bodies and who relentlessly compare themselves to others.

health social worker. After working in the hospital system and then for an NGO for a number of years, I started a private counselling practice right here in Bellingen. I love that I can walk to work! Julie – Leaving school I didn’t know what I wanted to do except that I wanted to help people, so when I found out about Social Work I knew I was on the right path. I’ve had a number of roles over the years but for a long time I worked in a crisis mental health team seeing people of all ages from all walks of life. The one thing they all had in common though, was their feeling of isolation in their time of need. They felt so alone and like no one else experienced or could understand their struggles. The sense of connection and community was lost. I started attending women’s circles and

felt that sense of connection and community. It provided such a powerful sense of security that I could be supported through difficult times and my first reaction was “our young girls need this!” If we could plant the seeds in young girls that there is power in sisterhood, that they could come together despite their differences to connect, create, laugh and learn, then we may have a chance of changing the mental health outcomes for our women of the future. This dream remained just a dream until two years ago when we moved to the beautiful country town of Bellingen and I met Kimberlee. In a moment of synchronicity she shared her same dream of creating Circles for Girls and the program came to life! Having a daughter of my own has cemented the passion I have for this kind of work. To

walk alongside a young girl as she finds her way in this world is a privilege and it’s inspiring to watch the young girls of this community as they pave a new way for their generation. You’ve recently ventured into business together, weaving ‘Circle of Girls’ into our community; a group that has been specifically created for young girls aged 9-11. Can you share the aim behind the circle and why you felt it was needed here in our community? Kimberlee – I’ve been holding circles for women in Bellingen for a couple of years and have seen the need for a similar space for our girls. In my work I come across countless young girls who feel We believe that if lonely, lack in confidence, feel shame about their we empower changing bodies and girls, and nurture in who relentlessly compare them the skills and themselves to others. values that we mentor creativity is integral to They are often girls who in circles, that they the work too! feel deeply. Many also will be better equipped These are big positive struggle with anxiety and to meet what’s on impacts you‘re having usually they are incredibly their paths ahead. on our local youth. insightful. Yet they see How do you hope to themselves as faulty make these impacts somehow, and often ripple out into the community beyond find themselves isolated or on the fringes of your work here? social groups. And so many girls feel exactly We feel strongly our work with the girls the same! These are sentiments that are often and families will have a ripple effect in the expressed in the women’s circles, and some community and beyond. We believe that if we are also issues I have met in myself and so I felt empower girls, and nurture in them the skills strongly this work needs to start earlier. and values that we mentor in circles, that they Becoming a young woman in today‘s will be better equipped to meet what’s on their society is very different to that of paths ahead. There’s a need to look outward past generations and supporting and now to do the work of returning to an earthempowering our young girls through this honouring way of living. To do that, our young time is paramount. What knowledge is shared and implemented into the sessions? people need a foundation of both strength and compassion. Francis Weller, a psychotherapist Our circles are currently for girls aged 9-11. and author whose work I greatly admire says We hope to provide circles for girls aged 12-14 “We are tumbling through a rough initiation, in the near future as well. We mentor in areas when radical alterations occur in our inner such as supporting the girls to claim their and outer landscapes. It is simultaneously self-worth and confidence, to choose good deeply personal and wildly collective, binding friends and be a good friend, how to tune into us to one another. Much is asked of us during her inner compass and speak her truth, and to threshold times like these.” understand, honour and care for her changing I believe one of the many things that’s asked body and the earth she lives on. They will also of us is to move away from what’s become experience the power of sitting in circle with a deeply individualistic and isolated way of other girls in a non-denominational but sacred and beauty-filled space. Laughter, fun and raising our children and return to village-based

ways of supporting our young people as they move into adulthood. No matter how amazing a parent is, young people can always benefit by having other mentors in the community to help guide and support them. It’s our hope that the work of Circle of Girls will contribute what our young women of the future need in order to meet what’s ahead for them – both personally and globally. We often get asked “What about the boys?”. We completely agree that boys are in need of mentorship and guidance on their path to manhood as well and support any initiatives and current work in this area. The Bellingen Youth Hub has a range of programs for boys. We would love to see our work in schools in the future and to work in conjunction with boys mentoring programs for a holistic offering. For anyone that is interested in coming along and would like to find out more, how can they do so? Anyone who wishes to find out more can email us on circleofgirlsbello@gmail.com We’re happy to share and answer any questions you may have. Circles will usually run on Sunday afternoons, for six weeks in a row and this year we’re offering three ‘terms’. You can also pop over and see what we are up to on Insta @circleofgirlsbello COFFS COAST

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BUSINESS

MINDS with LINDSAY RUSSELL & HEIDI FIGENSCHAU

from Fluke & Fern Marketing Agency.

ROB OLLIER

SAWTELL CONCRETING

hat made We do a bit of everything. For domestic you decide to projects we can do anything from footpaths, open Sawtell house extensions, to garages and more. We do Concreting? work on commercial projects, and we even float Me and my in with other crews like Coffs Coast Formwork business partners to help on bigger jobs in the region from time Brett Morris and Brad Mitchell have been great to time. That has been really a good experience mates for 30 years. We grew up in Sawtell, for myself particularly, having less experience on Brett and Brad were neighbours, and lived just multi-level structures than the other boys. across the back fence when Brad and I were We feel that it’s important to collaborate in the early stages of high school. Brad and rather than just compete with other local I became best friends at businesses. We really enjoy Toormina Primary School helping other local businesses back in the 80’s, and we’ve and in return have really We will pretty much hung out ever appreciated the support from always be the since. Now, 30 years later, our main suppliers Coffs first people to put we have also launched our REO, Coffs Mini Mix and our our hands up if own concreting business Main Man on the excavator, local organisations together. Steve Sanders. It’s been a need help. We have all been in the really positive start and we’re industry for years, working excited about the future. for different companies in the area, at times As a new business owner, what have you all together, which means our team has pretty found valuable over the start-up phase? extensive experience right throughout the We all have different skill sets and we’ve concreting field. We decided we wanted a found that the best way to learn is to just challenge, so we launched Sawtell Concreting do it, and that’s what we’ve done. I think it in November 2020. Even though 2020 was a works well with the three of us because we’ve bit crazy, we felt there’s no right or wrong time got each other. We discuss everything before to start a business. It hasn’t even reached the making those important decisions, since three six month mark and it’s going really well, even brains are better than one. better than we had expected. We have received I actually started an online small business great, positive feedback and our clients are course mid-last year, but I didn’t really like the always happy which is great to hear. online learning aspect. Since then, it’s been What type of concreting services do you a lot of hands-on learning along the way. offer? We’ve implemented Xero for digital invoices,

and Beyond Tax Toormina have been great for helping us implement good practices right from the start. We got some shirts printed by Shane ‘Doggo’ Panton and we are starting to ramp up our online presence with a new website and social media (check us out @sawtellconcreting or sawtellconcreting.com.au). It just goes to show that starting a business is do-able for anyone if they put their mind to it. You just need to jump right in and be willing to learn new skills. As a very young business, it’s great to see that you’re already getting involved with local events and causes. Why is this important to Sawtell Concreting? We are all long-time locals in Sawtell, so we like to get involved with the local community. We will always be the first people to put our hands up if local organisations need help. Our team is a mix of passionate surfers, muso’s, and motorcycle enthusiasts – so if we can align with that too, then it’s even better. Now that the business has traction, we are starting to really delve into a few sponsorships. We are sponsoring the Barney Miller Classic which is just an amazing local event. We are also sponsoring a new concert called Hell on High Water, and we’re looking into sponsoring some more local sports clubs & organisations. As great mates, do you find it’s easy to manage mateship and business? Definitely – we know when to clock off and enjoy a cold beer. It’s always important to have that work-life balance no matter who you run a business with. COFFS COAST

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CharterNet C O F F S

C O A S T

A C C O U N TA N T S

Jack Dixon, Principal, Chartered Accountant

Using Technology to Your Advantage

echnology can improve our lives so much but it changes quickly and can be difficult to stay on top of. Let’s be intentionally untechnical in discussing the benefits of using clever technology within your business. This time last year, with a global pandemic bringing uncertainty to our country and our stretch of coast, smart businesses used technology to pivot and stay connected to their customers and staff. Restaurants and cafés launched online ordering websites, gyms were using Zoom online video software to deliver training sessions, a Facebook group emerged for businesses of the Coffs Coast to interact and support each other. It was inspiring to see the local community pull together at such a critical time. Cloud accounting software like Xero was being widely used

to quickly and easily submit results for JobKeeper, a monthly lifeline that kept many Australian businesses afloat. There’s a bigger picture here, and one that will resonate strongly with much of our local community. The Coffs Coast is filled with lifestyle-focussed people and businesses, and there are so many ways to utilise technology to give us back more of what we value most – our time. It’s easy to view a monthly subscription fee as another expense out the door but often what we’re buying is time towards our end game. Many of us want to build happy and successful businesses but mostly what motivates us is more time with family, with friends and just to have more time to enjoy the great lifestyle that we’re all here for. So reframe the question and ask yourself what your time is worth next time you’re considering a technology purchase.

36 Moonee Street, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 PO Box 90, COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 Direct: 0472 636 400 | Office: 5616 0100 CharterNetCoffsCoast.com.au 82 COFFS COAST

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BARRY HOCKEY

ax Planning 2021 lenders to ensure that eligible The instant asset firms will have access to finance write-off provision to maintain and grow their has been extended businesses when JobKeeper ends. to 30 June 2022. Loans under the SME Recovery So it is good time to consider Loan Scheme can be used to purchases of essential business support a wide range of business equipment, plant or vehicles. purposes, excluding the purchase For business assets you start of residential property, the to hold, and first use (or have purchase of financial products, installed ready the provision for use) for of finance to The a taxable an associated Government’s purpose from entity, or lease, SME Recovery Loan 7.30pm (AEDT) rent, hire or Scheme is designed to on 6 October hire purchase support the economic 2020 to 30 existing assets recovery, and to June 2022, that are more provide continued the instant than halfway assistance to firms asset threshold into their currently on does not effective life. JobKeeper. apply. You can Once the immediately scheme deduct the business portion of commences, loans must be the asset’s cost under temporary approved before 31 December full expensing. 2021. So talk to your business SME Recovery Loan Scheme banker to see if you qualify. The Government’s SME At Barry Hockey Accountants, Recovery Loan Scheme is we have a dedicated team to designed to support the assist you. Our firm is big enough economic recovery, and to to get the job done and small provide continued assistance to enough to care. Personal service firms currently on JobKeeper. and attention to detail is our The Government will work with business.

K POW at Key KA Ky Ke Completed Year 11 and has commenced KAPOW Employment, Tara is looking for f casual retail or hospitality work in the local area while she completes her Cert III Retail. Tara is excited for an opportunity to display her creative side.

Since completing the KAPOW K POW program earning himself a Cert KA r III rt in Retail, Coby is looking to secure a Carpentry or Plumbing apprenticeship and is keen to showcase his energy and enthusiasm to any employer.

up to $25000 in wage subsidies

keyemployment.com.au

1300 KEY JOBS 539 5627

COFFS COAST

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focus_contributor.

E D U C AT I O N

UPDATE with NICK JOHNSTONE

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS

his month’s article covers a difficult topic and one that many community leaders are apprehensive to address. In recent weeks much has been written, in both the Sydney Morning Herald and the Melbourne Age, about the issue of peer-on-peer abuse amongst teens. Peer-on-peer abuse includes issues such as bullying (including cyberbullying), sexting, initiations or hazing, physical abuse as well as sexual harassment and sexual violence. Recent data suggests that peer-on-peer abuse accounts for 25% of all child abuse. As this figure would suggest peer-on-peer child sexual abuse is a growing concern and is the focus of this article. I wish to note that peer-on-peer abuse in teens is currently a cultural issue and not related to any particular ethnic background or region or schooling sector and the issue can’t be dismissed as ‘boys will be boys’ behaviour. This type of rhetoric is both dismissive and does not address the significant harm that is caused with these encounters. Other language that is of concern is ‘it takes two to tango’ or ‘she must have done something to deserve it’. No person, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, deserves to be sexually abused. This issue can’t also be dismissed as boys behaving badly due to heavy alcohol consumption or peer pressure. These assaults reek of a culture that lacks social conscience and empathy. As a society we need to work together to address this issue. It will take a series of efforts to institute change and this shift in behaviours will not occur overnight. Parents and carers together with schools and community leaders need to take the time to have these difficult conversations with our teens. As former Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, stated that “all disrespect of women does not end up

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with violence against women, but let’s be clear, all violence against women begins with disrespecting women.” This statement rang true for me. It is all about building respect. Dr Arne Rubinstein, author of The Making of Men and founder of the Rites of Passage Institute, notes the shift in mindset and resultant behaviours from those of an egocentric boy to healthy adult male behaviours. He states “I’m (young men) not the centre of the universe, I’m part of the universe. Power is actually for the good of my community. I have to be responsible and accountable for my actions.” At present this is not occurring in these teen sexual abuse interactions. Dr Rubinstein believes that young people need the opportunity to build this new mindset by developing skills and having difficult conversations, and parents, schools and mentors are critical influencers in this development of respectful behaviours. Contrary to many media reports, schools are being proactive in this area. In NSW, the Personal Development and Health and Physical Education curriculum mandates that schools teach child protection in every stage of learning from Kindergarten to Year 10. This process is supported with additional targeted programs such as the Love Bites program. Love Bites is a Respectful Relationships Education Program for young people aged 15-17 years. It addresses issues such as relationship violence, sex and relationships and the concept of consent. Many schools will also have a positive education focus within their pastoral care programs. At my school, for example, this program is built around our school values. These values foster the qualities of generosity of spirit, justice, courage, integrity, inclusivity and service and are designed to cultivate mutual respect. Dr Tim Hawkes, former Headmaster of King’s School in Parramatta and ambassador

of the Fathering Project says that “we need to be outraged as fathers to the extent that we don’t allow these things to happen.“ Dr Hawkes explains the importance of talking to your children and teens about the various ways consent can be conveyed. He noted the importance of positive role-modelling, the power of language, as well as non-verbal communication such as body language. When it comes to the very important issue of consent, he states, “what was once a ‘yes’, on one occasion, can be a ‘no’ on a different one, and that’s ok.” Dr Hawkes believes that parents should address the following issues with their children: Consent should be; freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic and specific. Consent must be given clearly – for example, silence is not consent; being under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not consent. You have every right over your body and to set boundaries. Educate them about making the right choices, surrounding themselves with friends they trust and getting them to talk about these issues as a friendship group either at school or with their parents there to support them. Discuss drink spiking and ‘safe’ levels of drinking, for example the dangers of pre-loading. I encourage parents to be proactive in this area and also to praise and support their schools with the continual development of programs that focus on building respectful relationships. Finally, I wish to thank Natassia Chrysanthos, the journalist in the Sydney Morning Herald, who has given this issue the gravity that it required to be addressed. If this article has triggered a negative response please utilise the support services below: Lifeline 13 11 14; beyondblue 1300 224 636; Domestic Violence Line 1800 65 64 63; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732.

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JASON BURLEY

FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

IS AGED CARE CONFUSING? The good news is we are living longer. This may give you more time in retirement to tick off your bucket list. But at some point, you might expect to slow down and take things easier. At that point, you may need help around the home or with some of your daily needs. Or you may need to make the move to residential aged care.

hatever your needs and choices, identifying your options and making effective decisions can become overwhelming without good advice and an effective plan. Some tasks are too complex and too important to do on your own. Navigating the way through aged care and the jargon is not easy – especially if decisions are being made in a time of crisis and emotions are running high. Mistakes can be costly. Three key mistakes I see people make when they don’t get the right advice: • Selling the home without understanding the implications. • Being afraid to pay a lump sum (refundable accommodation deposit) for residential care accommodation and missing out on Centrelink concessions.

• Not generating enough cashflow. This is where I can help. Aged Care financial advice is a specialist area. The rules change constantly, as do the available strategies. I specialise in aged care advice and can help you to plan for current or future needs. Call me on 0431 414 799 to discuss your aged care position. Jason Burley is an Authorised Representative of Count. ‘Count’ and Count Wealth Accountants® are trading names of Count Financial Limited, ABN 19 001 974 625 Australian Financial Services Licence Holder Number 227232. The information provided here is general in nature. You should seek advice from a licenced financial adviser who will consider your specific needs and objectives, and help you understand your options, before making a decision.

P. 0431 414 799 E. jasonb@jaccam.com.au Burleyagedcareadvice

IN THE

t seems we can’t win at the moment with devastation everywhere, first it was the fires and now our horrible floods. While we needed the rain I think everybody will agree it has just been too much at once, but luckily in today’s day and age we have so many apps, social media and text messaging that we can be informed nearly to the minute. But what about the poor buggers who worked the mines, the old remote timber mills and pastoralists who never had warnings about flash flooding or terrible fires about to rip through their camps. Just think they might hear a rumble in the valley and before they know it there’s a tonne of water gushing down stream washing things over, knocking over the workers and water filling every conceivable hole it can. This would make the mines extremely unstable and unsafe, and just think if they can’t get in they need to start work digging again to start making a living. If there was a fire about they would be able to smell the smoke and maybe see the odd ember fall but then what? These tough people have walked into

ARCHIVES with KEVIN SMITH where they are carrying everything they own, shelters are mostly shanty tents and timber structures. Where do they run to and what direction? When the fire does rage through their section they are buggered. At least today we have that preconceived warning to escape and drive (hopefully) away on our designated escape route to safety. This is what is happening now in our Coffs region, we lost a stack of history when the fires ripped through our hinterland in the form of heritage buildings, old timber structures that have been built in the bush around the turn of the century. I’ve seen old timber crosses on graves burnt to pieces. Now we have our continual flooding around, destroying other sections of our history. Big waves are knocking the Jetty around (the end of it is where it was finished back in 1942), mines are collapsing as the ground has been made unstable, sections of old tramway lines are falling into the creeks around the area because the waterways are swelling so much that the banks are collapsing from continual erosion. COFFS COAST

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Claire

focus_contributor.

WHITE

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

CL AIR E WHITE COACHING AND DEVELOPMENT

with CATH FOWLER

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

This month I chatted with Claire White. We’re excited to have her as our speaker at the next Business Women’s Network event on 22 April. Visit bwn.org.au for details.

an you tell us about your career and what led you to create your business? When I was little, my Dad thought I’d be a nurse. I guess my love of helping people was evident at a young age. I started out as a teacher and as my career evolved, my passion for leadership and wellbeing became evident within the various leadership positions I had over the past 15 years. I hit a peak in my career and was successful externally, however there was a lot going on in my personal life which led me to study wellbeing in a different light, my own. I studied human behaviour and personal development and as I saw the impact I was making on my own life, I realised I had an opportunity to support others to create the change they were seeking in their lives. My coaching is an amalgamation of my leadership and human behaviour expertise but also comes from a place of empathy and understanding – I practice what I preach. What’s your favourite part of the work you do? Helping people experience more fulfilment and create the lives they want. There are so many people who want more than they are currently experiencing in life. They know there is more happiness to

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experience but just aren’t sure how to get it. within Victoria but with even more natural Through my understanding and beauty and warmer weather. I had always experience of leadership and human daydreamed about moving north and behaviour, I support leaders to enhance their when I knew a major shift was due as I was leadership and experience more fulfilment in entering a new phase in my life, moving to their lives. I feel very privileged to work with Coffs seemed a great option. many different people who have taken the What piece of advice would you first step to exploring what options there are give women making their way in the to experience greater fulfilment. business world? Who is your greatest influence in Listen to the voice within that challenges business? you to strive for what My Dad. He modelled you want. You can be to me what it means all that you are and He modelled that to have a great work use it to create the if you care ethic for the purpose of life you want your enough and it means making a difference in way in business. We enough to you, you will the world for ourselves are all gifted with succeed in anything and others. He was my different strengths you do. That’s my inspiration to start my and purposes. Find approach in business. own business, to follow and connect your Taking care of others’ my dreams and use my professional life to dreams means mine skills and do what I love your purpose and will be taken care of in to do – help others. surround yourself with the process. He modelled that if champions who will you care enough and it support you when it means enough to you, gets challenging. you will succeed in anything you do. That’s When things don’t go to plan, view it as my approach in business. Taking care of feedback and keep going if it’s important others’ dreams means mine will be taken to you. Celebrate and appreciate the wins care of in the process. along the way. At the end of the day, you You moved to the Coffs Coast recently. have immense power and that is the power What attracted you to the area? of choice. Choose what will create the What didn’t attract me? To me, Coffs fulfilment you want and get support to help resembled the country towns I have lived in you along the way.

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TOBY HOLMES Toby Holmes delivers the High Potential Learners (HPL) program at SJPC, and we wanted to find out more about this new program at the College.

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INSPIRE

CHALLENGE Toby can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your passion for learning? I grew up in Coffs Harbour and I just loved learning, but I often found school frustrating because we seemed to waste so much time. I was much more interested in learning new things and discussing wild ideas than completing homework and meeting curriculum requirements. As a student and now as a teacher I am interested in learning as much as possible - more than just focusing on maximising marks.

Catholic primary schools (St. Augustine’s, Mary Help of Christians and St Francis Xavier) already have programs for HPL students, but now we are bringing these small groups of exceptional students out to St John Paul College to conduct workshops with specialist teachers which enables them to be extended well beyond the primary school environment. In a similar way we have a group of Year 7 and Year 8 students who are withdrawn from their regular classes once a fortnight for an extension workshop.

Seeing the students flourish. In one of our combined workshops we had our Year 11 Physics students helping the primary school students solve the algebra relevant for their rocket launches. To see those interactions across not just 3 primary schools, but also to see Year 11 students working with Year 6 students was inspirational.

I have a degree in Advanced Science with a Physics major from the University of Sydney. After I graduated I quickly realised that the actual practice of Science did not excite me as much as the dynamic environment of the science classroom itself. So I completed my education qualifications and I was lucky enough to obtain a job at St. John Paul College where I am currently the Leader of Learning for the Science Department.

What do the workshops involve? The workshops are designed to provide a framework to allow these phenomenal students to learn, explore, create and extend themselves without limits or restraint. We have already: built and launched rockets, modelled the Mars Perseverance lander, built functioning motors from scratch, designed and coded interactive 3D environments that we can enter with VR and investigated how Ariadne’s thread from Greek Mythology can be used to solve computational problems.

What do you hope to achieve through the program? Every student that we have the privilege of learning with, is a unique creation made in the image of God. This means each student has an individual learning profile and specific learning needs. Our goal with the program is to enrich and extend our most academically capable students who might be getting bored or frustrated in class. The real success occurs when these students go back to class and their peers, full of enthusiasm for learning for its own sake not just to “get a good mark”.

What is the HPL program at SJPC? I can’t tell you how excited I am about our new High Potential Learning program. Our

What have been some of the highlights?

Some of the unintended spin-offs from the program are already showing up with our Year 8 group starting a lunchtime Rubix Cube solving club after we used the cubes as part of a warm-up activity.

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Our award-winning service speaks for itself “Fuji Xerox WOW what a service, our two full colour machines work on call over and over again, service from the technicians was pleasant, polite, informative and prompt”

“We run three copiers constantly in a busy real estate environment and we cannot fault the equipment, our servicing agreement or the product knowledge and approachability of the team that maintains them”

“I cannot fault the machines or indeed the service we get from FXBC Mid North Coast”

“We originally chose to purchase through FXBC Mid North Coast, as their pricing was competitive but more importantly because their service was impressive from the outset”

“The friendly and efficient team are always available for assistance if needed, ensuring they will be our only choice for printing”

The only fully authorised dealer and the largest dedicated service team on the Mid North Coast. When it comes to keeping your business running we know your assurance is in our aftersales service. Whether you need a single office printer or a fully managed print service, we can assist you to make the best value for money decision for your business. Local Service • Trusted Provider • Respected Brands

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1/26B Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour sales@fxbc.com.au www.fxbc.com.au COFFS COAST

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TECH Head

with G A V I N M O R O N E Y

Canon R5

Finding a new camera can be one of the toughest decisions a hobbyist or professional can make today.

hat do I need? What brand? DSLR or mirrorless? These are some of the questions you have to ask yourself along with the extensive choice you have with what’s in the market these days. Well I think I may have found my idea of the “perfect” camera. Like with every piece of my gear I like to do my research and hear from others experiences so I headed down to Camera Warehouse as they have an extensive amount of knowledge and live and breath everything photography, and they helped with every question that I asked. And there were a lot of them. With stock shortages so low due to the pandemic, they were able to secure one for me within days and I was off shooting. As photography is my profession,

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I needed something easy to work with, without having to think about the technical so I can concentrate on the creative. This is where the Canon R5 comes in. It’s a photographer’s work horse that can handle anything you throw at it and is perfect for any style of shooter. Where I was most surprised was with Canon’s auto focus system with eye tracking. Since using it I have not missed a shot and it almost feels like I’m cheating in some way because even at slow shutter speeds it’s incredibly sharp and doesn’t miss a beat. A great camera is one you can rely on and don’t have to think about, leaving you to focus on the shot. I can say since shooting with this camera not only am I producing a better quality of work but I’m falling in love with photography all over again.

from AUSTRALIA’S

MOST TRUSTED CAMERA BRAND* COFFS COAST

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Awesome It’s how the Colourworks team at Coffs

Harbour are feeling having won Canon’s NSW Partner of the Year Award for the second year in a row. A huge thank you to our awesome customers.

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T E C H

H E A D

C O N T R I B U T O R

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Amalfi COF F S HA R BO U R

Amalfi Coffs Harbour is the latest luxury holiday listing at Coffs Coast Accommodation, joining their existing 25 holiday home listings. Coffs Coast Accommodation welcomes almost 3000 guests to their holiday homes each year. We chat with Monique Fitzgerald, owner of Coffs Coast Accommodation and Melissa Parisi, owner of the Holiday Home Stylist and Coffs Coast Concierge, to learn more about the property and what guests can expect when they stay.

here is this holiday home located, and whom do you expect to holiday here? Monique: Amalfi Coffs Harbour is a spectacular penthouse apartment located at the Jetty. It is very convenient for guests, a short drive from the airport and a stroll to local cafes, restaurants, Jetty Beach and Coffs Creek. It’s a great location! With direct flights from major cities to Coffs, we expect this luxury penthouse to attract guests from Sydney, Melbourne, and even further afield. We host many visitors

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from country Australia wanting coastal getaways, and I know Amalfi will also be popular with our regional guests. Amalfi has 4 bedrooms and sleeps up to 8 people; however, it’s equally suitable for a large family as it is for an ultra-luxurious couples getaway or long-term corporate stay. With elevator access to the penthouse level and the living and bedrooms on one level, Amalfi is also suitable for those with mobility concerns. What makes this holiday home unique? Monique: Stepping into the entryway of Amalfi, you know that you are somewhere special. The interiors of this apartment are gorgeous. It has spectacular views of the

ocean, Muttonbird Island and the Solitary Islands. There’s always something to look at, and guests are going to love this. As well as the 4 generous bedrooms, Amalfi has 2 luxuriously appointed bathrooms with 2 separate toilets. Both bathrooms have egg-shaped freestanding stone baths and rain showers. The spacious master suite opens onto one of the two terraces – ideal for enjoying a morning coffee whilst looking out over the ocean. Guests will enjoy the stunning rooftop entertaining terrace, with 360-degree panoramic views. The rooftop terrace has a spa, impressive BBQ set in polished stone,

We have equipped the house with items guests need to including all linen, bathroom amenities, kitchenware, Breville Barista Max coffee machine, outdoor cooking equipment and beach towels.

gas fire pit, as well as lounge and dining areas – this is an entertainer’s paradise; our guests are going to relish this space. The property looks fantastic. Can you tell us about the styling? Melissa: This property was such a pleasure to style. Having existing impressive elements to work with, we pared back furnishings and introduced a relaxed, natural and luxurious style. The serene interiors in the living areas enhance the stunning views. We used dried sun palm leaves to frame the striking panoramic windows and introduce warmth. Styling holiday homes is not just about the look; it’s very much about function. We have equipped the house with items guests need to including all linen, bathroom amenities, kitchenware, Breville Barista Max

coffee machine, outdoor cooking equipment and beach towels. What services do you offer your guests? Monique and Melissa: All of our guests have access to our Concierge Service (Coffs Coast Concierge), where they can book various local services and experiences. Guests can make their holiday more like a hotel experience, and the level of luxury they would like to indulge in is up to them. We can arrange conveniences for guests, such as delivering and unpacking groceries and chilling drinks before they arrive. Gone are the days of a long drive to a holiday home followed by the exhausting grocery

shop. When staying with us, guests can choose to have this done for them, so as soon as they arrive, their holiday begins! Other popular services include catering, private chefs, butlers, in-home massages, private yoga sessions, luxury transfers and personalised itineraries. Our concierge service is a win/win for guests and local business. Coffs Coast Concierge recommends the best local services to our guests, and guests can experience “the best of the Coffs Coast authentically”. We know that our concierge services will be popular with our guests at the beautiful Amalfi Coffs Harbour. How can we find out more? For bookings, please go to coffscoastaccommodation.com.au COFFS COAST

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Follow physical distancing and good hygiene practices

Listen to the health advice

Understand border restrictions before you travel

Gurmesh Singh MP MEMBER FOR COFFS HARBOUR coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au 1/9 Park Ave, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 (02) 6652 6500 Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements October August 2020 2020 98 COFFS COAST focus

STAT E O F

PLAY with

COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

Coffs Harbour is fortunate to have many iconic landmarks. From the Big Banana to the South Solitary Island Lighthouse, our landmarks are instantly recognisable and memorable.

’ve always thought Coffs is unique because the main road through town completely misses the most beautiful part of our city – the Jetty Foreshores precinct. In decades past, the area was a hive of commercial activity. A real working harbour. These days, it’s still a working harbour, but the focus has shifted from primary industries to recreation and hospitality. And we’re working to make it even better. Much of the space in the precinct is used poorly, or not used at all. In creating a masterplan for the site, a Project Advisory Steering Committee was set up to give a community voice to the project. Since last October, the NSW Government has been working closely with this Project Advisory Steering Committee, comprising local community members and stakeholders, and its technical consultants, to develop a proposed vision for the Coffs Harbour Jetty

Foreshore area. This engagement is extremely productive in assisting the Government to progress the project while ensuring ongoing community leadership of the process. It’s also just the start of a broader conversation we want to have with the Coffs Harbour community once the proposed vision is released for public consultation. Locals will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed vision, and precinct identity, in a number of ways, which may include community information days, online surveys and drop-in sessions. We look forward to continuing the conversation with the community as the project progresses. Meanwhile, the NSW Government continues preparation for the essential civil infrastructure and public domain upgrades required for the precinct’s revitalisation following the allocation of $20 million in

economic stimulus funding to fast-track the works last year. Civil infrastructure construction is planned to start in mid-2021, subject to approvals. Following a recent expression of interest campaign, the NSW Government has also short-listed emerging regional NSW-based architects to pitch their design for the public domain works. A Design Review Panel will assist with the selection of a preferred architect. We are impressed with the calibre of architects and look forward to the successful architect joining the team and working with the community as we prepare to shape and deliver a thriving new waterfront precinct for Coffs Harbour. Members of the public who wish to discuss the precinct revitalisation opportunity are invited to contact Project Advisory Steering Committee members at coffsforeshore@ property.nsw.gov.au COFFS COAST

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TALKING DESTINATION

with FIONA BARDEN

FROM COFFS CITY COUNCIL

There’s lots happening on the Coffs Coast Travelling, doing or discovering, we’ve got you covered.

RAVEL OPTIONS attracts film buffs from all over the country to EXPANDING the Coffs Coast for this much-loved annual This month we welcome event. increased options to travel Tickets are on sale now. For more info and to and from the Coffs to book, visit www.swiff.com.au Coast by air. Expanded NRL Premiership – First Time In Coffs services to Sydney include larger planes If you haven’t got your ticket already, get for Qantas flights and new services by Rex in quick for this sure-to-sell-out game at C.ex Airlines. Further new direct services for Coffs International Stadium on Sunday Coffs–Melbourne and Coffs–Brisbane means May 30. travellers from many parts of Australia can Coffs Harbour City Council is excited to easily and conveniently partner with the Cronulla make their way to our Sharks to host the gorgeous region. Round 12 NRL Telstra The sixth SWIFF The additional seats and Premiership clash festival packs in flexibility offered by these against the Gold Coast 120 different sessions flights is a terrific boost Titans – the first time including 64 films, for our city’s tourism and a game for premiership and attracts film buffs event offerings and keeps points has been held in from all over the local people connected to our region. country to the Coffs Australia’s major cities. The Sharks will make the Coast for this muchLARGE SCALE EVENTS beautiful Coffs Coast their loved annual event. RETURNING home for this big weekend Film Fans Flock of rugby league, and To Coffs you’re invited to be there Coffs’ own film spectacular, the and cheer them on against their Queensland Screenwave International Film Festival rivals. There will also be a number of (SWIFF), is home to the largest line-up of community events and activities to get the events, guests, premieres, performances and whole family involved. film screenings in regional Australia. It’s on Find ticket and event details at www. this year from April 14 to 29 in venues across coffscoast.com.au/NRL Coffs Harbour. DINE AND DISCOVER The sixth SWIFF festival packs in 120 The NSW Government has launched the Dine different sessions including 64 films, and & Discover NSW program to encourage

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all of us to support dining, arts and tourism businesses in NSW. Every NSW resident aged 18 and over is eligible for four $25 Dine & Discover NSW vouchers worth $100 in total. Two vouchers can be used for dining out at restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs and clubs, and two vouchers can be used for entertainment and recreation, including cultural institutions, live music, and arts venues. If you’re a Coffs Coast resident, spending these vouchers locally is a great way to: • support local businesses, • try a local activity or visit a local attraction that you haven’t experienced before. There are some terms and conditions for using the vouchers and you will need a My Service NSW Account to receive the digital vouchers. More information can be found at www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/dine-anddiscover-nsw If you’re a local business (in an eligible industry) that hasn’t already registered to be part of the voucher program, it’s not too late! Register at www.nsw.gov.au/dine-discover-register #coffscoast #naturallyconnected

Sawtell BUILDING CO

SONNY KENNEDY

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Sawtell BUILDING CO

SONNY KENNEDY

Sawtell Building Co’s goal is to build beautiful homes that encapsulate the essence of their clients’ personalities, creating not just an exceptional space but a unique lifestyle. We had a chat with the business owner Sonny Kennedy to find out more...

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BUILDER

hat is the history behind Sawtell Building Co? I completed my apprenticeship in Coffs and after working alongside some highly regarded and reputable builders for about ten years, I decided I wanted to create that for myself in my hometown. Hence the name Sawtell Building Co. The response has been really positive. Coffs is booming, so I definitely think I made the right decision in starting my business here. What services do Sawtell Building Co provide? We’re a boutique building company. We’re not striving to be the biggest or the quickest but endeavouring to provide the standard of build, I myself would be happy to pay for. We

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specialise in custom built, architectural homes, and extensive renovations and additions. I like things that are a little left of centre and am all for innovative and original concepts. Tell us about your new website. We recently embarked on redesigning our old website. We were lucky enough to team up with Clinton from Crush Studios who went above and beyond to guide us in a design that fits with our business goals and ensures we spoke to our clients and target audience. Working with Crush Studios ensured we had access to their local collaboration team, being Peter Sechi Photography for our beautiful imagery and Cath Fowler from the Digital Laneway to complete our SEO (the Google stuff). We are looking forward to launching our new site very soon and would like to thank Clinton

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I’m approachable, honest and professional and collaborate with my clients extensively to create the space they desire, this part of the process is so important.

at Crush Studios. Tell us about some new, exciting projects you are working on now and in the future. We’ve got a few in the works at present including an extensive renovation to an 80 year old home in Woolgoolga. This particular client brought to us some original ideas including a container pool. This and other modern day concepts will be tied in with some of the original features of the house, making it an extremely unique project. We also have a new home for a family to be in Moonee, due to start soon. This family has been seeking to build their dream home for quite some time and it’s really exciting for SBCo to bring this to fruition. Finally, another major renovation in Emerald Beach that includes a parents’ retreat! We love Emerald and the lifestyle, so we’re happy to be going back there to recreate this space for this

client. Each of these properties are different and have their own story, it’s always enjoyable watching them unfold. What are the stand out features or the benefits of building with Sawtell Building Co? Like I said, I only want to build homes I myself would be happy to pay for. I’m a stickler for attention to fine detail and make this a key focus when guiding my team. I’m approachable, honest and professional and collaborate with my clients extensively to create the space they desire, this part of the process is so important. SBCo do not cut corners to complete the build faster, we encourage discussion to complete the build that the client wants. We will never decrease our standards for a deadline. Continued over >>> COFFS COAST

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BUILDER

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All of our businesses depend on this workmanship for success. It’s a pretty big thing to have people you trust working alongside you and I’m glad I’ve found that within my team.

What makes you stand out above your competitors? We live in a small town; I have a lot of good friends in the trade industry and many of them are a part of the SBCo team. We understand each other’s trades and understand that for all of our projects to run cohesively, we need to respect one another’s processes. All of our businesses depend on this workmanship for success. It’s a pretty big thing to have people you trust working alongside you and I’m glad I’ve found that within my team. How important is sustainability when building a new home? We do our best to support local trades and suppliers. We encourage our clients 104 COFFS COAST

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in the early stages of design to, where possible, incorporate solar power and to choose eco-friendly, sustainable products and materials. I also like creating new uses for materials and using recycled or upcycled products. You will see this in most of my builds and renovations from bricks to doors and windows. What are the top three things that people should consider when looking to build a new house? Follow your gut instincts, if something doesn’t feel right then it probably isn’t. First impressions are really important, so choose a builder who makes you feel confident they’ll do you and your home the justice it deserves.

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Support from my local community and positive feedback from my clients have been fundamental to SBCo and the direction we have taken in the last few years.

Don’t create unrealistic time frames for you and your builder. Environmental factors, pandemics and life all play a part in the fluidity of building and it’s important to understand this before starting a project. Be realistic in your expectations for financial expenditure and gain. Sometimes your Pinterest dreams don’t quite align with your bank account. Where are the Hot Spots to build on the Coffs Coast? Sawtell, Emerald Beach and Bonville. Since conception what has been the most important thing to you as a local trade? Support from my local community and positive feedback from my clients have been fundamental to SBCo and the direction we have taken in the last few years. It’s easy to get caught up in the build and forget that this is someone’s life you’re creating, so to hear you have pulled that off and made the client happy is a great feeling. People talk, so having a good reputation is what brings in new

clients. How important is it to support local businesses? Very, like I previously mentioned, the team of trades I work alongside and the support from our community are imperative to the success of SBCo. They’re just a couple of the many perks of living in a place like Coffs Harbour. I also do my best to support other local trades, as well as other businesses not in the trade industry. After the year we’ve just had, it’s never been more important! What are some challenges that the industry has faced and how have you overcome these? Extreme weather! And a pandemic both of which increase the risk of delays and material shortages. And both of which we’re experiencing as we speak! I guess I try and practice what I preach and understand these things happen, so we just keep moving. I wouldn’t mind coming home from work dry one day this year though.

Where do you see SBCo in ten years? My long-term business goal is to uphold a boutique building company, in which I remain the sole point of contact for my clients. In other words, I will collaborate with them and then I myself will build their home. I don’t ever want there to be a middle-man, I want to keep it personal. What do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast? I’ve lived all over from Sydney to the Gold Coast and even a couple of stints of overseas travels, but nothing compares or feels more like home then here. My partner and I enjoy our Sundays, there’s always a new beach or freshwater hole to take our Mellow man. And we’re pretty good at eating out or catching a movie at the old Sawtell cinema. I’m also a big homebody, so building our own home on the Coffs Coast is in the pipeline for this year too! How can we get in touch? W sawtellbuildingco.com M 0413 067 681 E sbco.sawtell@gmail.com F www.facebook.com/Sawtell-BuildingCo-235783367365786 COFFS COAST

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now you can have concrete look tiles for less

PER SQM

Concrete Fusion 600x600mm

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Proud to support Sawtell Building Co National Tiles Coffs Harbour 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6652 4866

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“Friendl y from the advice fa you kno ces w...”

www.parkbeachhomebase.com.au PACIFIC HIGHWAY, COFFS HARBOUR NORTH

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Solitary DESIGNER

HOMES

Solitary Designer Homes has been building in the Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas since 1981. They have won numerous HIA awards during this period. Their most recent award is being named Northern NSW Housing Awards - Home of the Year 2020

PROJECT PROMOTION

he character of the house is determined by the character of the site. The plan is zoned such that the building can step down the steep site in three equal parts, keeping a close connection between internal and external spaces with decks functionally linking them. This stepping of the form of the house also allows its height to be kept within the statutory limit. The owners, being family, envisaged a design with that would capture the ocean views without compromising on design and keeping with a coastal flair. The floor plan of the dwellings incorporated open plan living areas which had separate areas for the children to use and access to the decks and pool.

The owners, being family, envisaged a design with that would capture the ocean views without compromising on design and keeping with a coastal flair.

The design is modern contemporary. Vast amount of louvre windows allow full NE breezes during the summer months with excellent cross-ventilation for the residence. The clients wanted a modern functional kitchen and pantry, and an area on the island bench for morning meals. The top floor comprises of a living/dining /kitchen area with a large timber deck off, taking the views and breezes. The parents room is large with a Walk In Robe and a luxurious ensuite for their private use. There are 2 accesses to the lower floor for convenience to lead to the lower floor family room. Continued over...

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THE CONSTRUCTION The construction being a split level had some challenges. Use of different products on the exterior had to be placed in a manner as not to look overwhelming, but had to complement with the style of the building. This home won the 2020 HIA Northern NSW Custom Home $600000$1m Northern NSW Custom Home of the Year Northern NSW Bathroom over 9m2 Northern NSW Bathroom of The Year Northern NSW Home of the Year HIA NSW Custom Home $600000- $1m HIA NSW Bathroom over 9m2 HIA NSW Bathroom of the Year

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olitary Designer Homes has down with them and discuss what been building in the Coffs they envisage their homes to be. Harbour and surrounding areas We will draw it for them. Often since 1981. We have won there will be change before we numerous HIA awards during reach the final plan. Naturally they this period. can bring their own plans for us We specialise in Custom designed homes, to quote and build. We will discuss renovations and additions. The quality of budget and styles. our workmanship We are proud to and relationship with work with the best our clients has always We design and trades and suppliers been central to us. We available in the Coffs draw 95% of strive for excellence in Harbour area. Most of homes of the homes all projects and work these we have worked we build. We do all closely with clients with for many years, the submissions, to make their dream and we work well Basix and RFS homes become reality. together. These trades requirements We design and draw and suppliers contribute required by council 95% of homes of the to the highest quality of for our clients. homes we build. workmanship. We only We do all the use local trades and submissions, Basix and suppliers. RFS requirements required by council for We are now commencing an exciting our clients. We want to make the process project on Woolgoolga Headland, four as stress free as possible. For most this is the 2-storey villas. largest financial investment of their lives. When considering a new home, the most Clients can bring a concept. We will sit important things to consider are the slope

of the land, orientation to maximise breezes and sun and shade, and obviously the budget. Why we love the Coffs Coast We love living in Woolgoolga. Its surf and beaches, the climate and the friendly people, and easy lifestyle makes this area the best in Australia. How can we get in touch? Call Jim on 0401 638 740 or Mark on 0402283505 Email solitarydesignerhome@bigpond.com.au BLN 42618, abn 97823457093 COFFS COAST

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Solitary D E S I G N E R H O M E S

With over 25 years of experience, ColorTile is a leading expert supplier in Tiles, Stone, Bathware and Flooring. Our Coffs Harbour showroom consultants can take your brief and assist in bringing your style to life. Visit us at 155 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour or call 1300 042 899 to speak to one of our friendly showroom consultants. 1300 042 899

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Solitary Designer Homes SO

NG OM TI N H R O G PP ESI U S YD R I TA

COFFS HARBOUR CARPET COURT 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 P 6652 4866

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Coffs Harbour

RENTAL MARKET

with CHRISTINE RENGGER FROM TMP RENTALS

Wow – what a ride the last 12 months has been! Fires, floods, COVID-19, unemployment, homelessness, the list could go on. All these events have hugely impacted the sales and rental markets here on the Coffs Coast.

t’s no secret we have an abundance of people needing to be housed and the supply of rental properties is not there. One of the major reasons causing this, is that many landlords are relocating to the Coffs Coast to live in what were their investment properties. The remote working conditions put in place during the height of COVID restrictions have allowed many people to be flexible in their working arrangements, and many are choosing to take advantage of their ‘work from home’ lifestyle on the Coffs Coast. Not only does this scenario take one more rental property off the market, it also puts another tenant back into the market looking for a home. It’s a cycle that can be hard to break. Many people are also concerned about the upcoming Coffs Harbour Bypass works and the influx of highway workers exacerbating the problem. While I don’t deny there will be some workers coming to the region, I believe many of the workers are already in the region, having known the Bypass was

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Many people are also concerned about the upcoming Coffs Harbour Bypass works and the influx of highway workers exacerbating the problem.

coming, choosing Coffs Harbour as their base for the last few years but working on the surrounding sections of the Pacific Highway Upgrade. Hence, it may not be as chaotic as expected. In any case, we need a solution. And what could that be? One proposal we heard floated recently, was to have a Government Incentive that for each property purchased by an owner occupier, there would be a monetary or tax incentive for them to

purchase an investment at the same time. Is that achievable? Only time will tell. If you’re a landlord seeking a tenant, call us as we have many prospective tenants seeking

accommodation. Similarly, if you’re a tenant with notable references and need a rental, touch base with us at www.tmprentals.com.au

Blue Ribbon Homes

Display Home

DISPLAY

The Belleview

HOME N OW OPEN

The Belleview is a contemporary home that showcases Blue Ribbon Homes’ quality, innovation and individuality. The Belleview is a custom designed home with a feature courtyard that embraces the casual lifestyle of beachside living. Take the first step in making your new dream home a reality and take a walk through our beautiful display home today with our friendly team. This is a great opportunity to get to know and see for yourself the Blue Ribbon Homes promise of quality, style and value. 7 Angler Court, Bonville Sawtell Commons Estate Tue, Wed, Thurs, Sat, Sun 10am - 3pm / Ph: 6651 8144

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ON THE

JOB

We sat down for a quick chat with Tom Williams, owner of T.Williams Plumbing, to hear his perspective on the job.

ey Tom, give us a brief description of a typical day on the job? Wake up early and have breakfast. I used to surf every morning before work, but now if my son wakes up early enough, I have breakfast with him and enjoy his company before heading to work to get organised for the day. How did you get into the plumbing business? I started plumbing with my old man just on weekends and when he needed a hand. In 2003, when I had just finished high school, I was working and thinking of being a chef when the job opportunity came up with Jackson and Skinner Plumbing and I never looked back. In 2011, I started my own business and now run a small team of legends known as T.Williams Plumbing. What’s your favourite part of the day on the job? The favourite part of my job is the challenges you get from doing such a large variety of different work. Plumbing covers so many skills like roofing, guttering, fascia, cladding, drainage including sewerage systems, stormwater systems, rainwater systems, water, gas, air, and a lot more. I feel you don’t get bored with plumbing, as you are constantly challenging yourself to learn different skills within our trade. What is the worst or best joke you heard on the job? ‘My wife accused me of being immature.’ ‘I told her to get out of my fort.’ If you weren’t in the plumbing trade what do you think you would be doing? I always wanted to be a paramedic. I’m not sure why, I just found it interesting. Thanks Tom.

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Rolling into Retirement? Finding the right home to live your best retirement life is serious business. Here at Marian Grove, we’ve been caring for our community for over 27 years. This established community is set within 27 acres of landscaped, award winning gardens, surrounded by bushland and only minutes from Sawtell. Our independent living is just that. You can choose to be involved in our many lifestyle groups - or relax and enjoy your own company in your choice of villas, townhouses or brand new apartments currently available.

Come home to Marian Grove,

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L C A H OLI T

For more information call

(02) 6653 1241

or visit www.mariangrovelifestyle.com.au Departure fee payable, enquire for more information

Happy Seniors Week 13th - 24th April 2021 COFFS COAST

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REAL

E S TAT E with CHRIS HINES F R O M U N R E A L E S T AT E

any people think they should entrust the sale of their principal place of residence to the real estate agent who puts the highest value on it. Not necessarily so, and in many cases the absolute last thing you should do, if you want to actually sell. ALTHOUGH THIS IS A SELLER'S MARKET, PRICING IS STILL PARAMOUNT. Talk to people you know who have recently sold in the area, act on advice from people whose opinions you respect. Word of mouth is the best source of current information about local real estate agents or any other professional services. Intending sellers should also obtain submissions from agents who are active in their local area. You can tell if agents are active by the number of ‘Sold’ signs they have, and by the quality of their local advertising. A busy well-located office with ready after hours facilities is also a must. Choose two or three agents and get them to put their submissions in writing. Some of the criteria to consider are level of service, specific advertising details, fees and expenses, and a commitment to feedback during the marketing programme. Make sure they show you comparable sales in your local area; no two homes are exactly the same, but compare similar properties to your property, they give you a great indication of what you can expect.

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Once you have two or three submissions most amount of property ‘hits’ either on the you are in a position to compare apples with internet, print media or agents buyer data apples. bases occur. If it is overpriced and misses its It’s no good going with the agent who target buyer range, it may be destined to stay puts the highest value on your home or offers on the market for a considerable time. you the lowest commission only to find out Potential buyers recognise overpriced that there is obviously a reason why they are property for what it is, this makes them heavily discounted. Many would-be sellers cautious and decreases competition for the see through this kind of false economy too property. Most overpriced properties fail to late. Like everything else in life we don’t attract offers and purchasers end up with the mind spending money as psychological edge once long as we get value for negotiations are under money. And at the end of way. As hard as it is the day it doesn’t matter Take your time about to do, do not how little you’re paying choosing an agent, after focus on the fee or if you don’t sell regardless. all, it’s not something commission that the As hard as it is to do, you do every day and agent is going to do not focus on the fee you want to be confident charge you. Consider or commission that the in your choice. Do your first if you think that agent is going to charge homework and don’t be agent and agency is you. Consider first if you seduced by fantasy prices. the best to represent think that agent and Do you know folks, you in the sale of agency is the best to that ‘buyer’ does exist your property. represent you in the sale that have sold their of your property. property in one of the In a nutshell, are they the agent who is capital cities and moves to Coffs with a wallet going to represent your best interest, ethically full of money, but do you know what; he and honestly and put the most amount of also looks at the internet and the papers and money in your back pocket at the end of the knows value for money. day. Not just a high ‘fantasy’ listing price that Never forget that for most of us our home doesn’t reflect the true market price of your is the largest investment we ever make. It’s property. our nest egg, part of our superannuation One of the biggest problems in selling a package, and our kids’ inheritance. Choose home is overpricing in the beginning of the and choose wisely; if you were going to a marketing campaign. The first few weeks are specialist you wouldn’t make a decision based often crucial, as it is during this time that the solely on price.

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Built to inspire. Built for you.

Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. We have over 150 different floor plans to choose from, including single and two storey designs, granny flat and dual occupancy... there’s sure to be a design to suit your lifestyle. Whether you have a flat or a sloping block of any size, even knocking down your existing house to rebuild a new home, you can be sure we can bring your vision to life. If you can dream it, we can build it. Visit one of our stunning display homes today! perryhomes.com.au

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