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134 MARCH 2022

SIMMONE MACKINNON

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from the

Welcome to the MARCH 2022 EDITION.

arch is the month when we celebrate the wonderful women in our working community… and not just here at FOCUS! Internationally women are the topic of conversation; with International Women’s Day falling on March 8th. This year the theme for International Women’s Day is #breakthebias, and this theme has been adopted locally for the celebratory event at C.ex Coffs on the day, hosted by Zonta, BPW, BWN, MC Lily Isobella and special guest speaker Lorraine Gordon. FOCUS is proud to again support this event. Tickets are available for $55 from stickytickets. Locally we are proud to bring our special Women in Business edition to you – a platform for local women to shine bright and share

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their stories. This month the face of our cover, Simmone Jade Mackinnon, is someone many of you will recognise for her role as Stevie on McLeod’s Daughters. After acting the part for five years, Simmone has ended up working as a Jillaroo for real on some remote stations in Queensland, and travelling the country with her son Madigan. She has since made the Coffs Coast her home. Her travels have now brought about a new chapter for her; designing her own range of travel wear and accessories aptly named ‘Wandering Ozzie’. In this edition we also speak with Sam Huybregts who has already made a career for himself through his music, performing for many years at Universal Studios in Japan and on a cruise ship in many different parts of the world. But he is now ready to focus on his work as an individual artist. He has huge amounts of talent and passion for songwriting

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Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. POSTAL PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE 0413 816 010 WEB focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

and singing and is about to release his original music to the world. Do yourself a favour and check him out, his music will be released in the coming weeks as Shuij music on streaming platforms. We also caught up with local legend Shane Seccombe. Shane has been in the entertainment industry for many years, starting out as a muso himself and then moving into booking artists for local venues and now working on major events and festivals as well. His business Offbeat Operations represents many local and touring artists, as well as venues and events. Next month is our annual sport & fitness edition. If you know of any inspiring local athletes that are kicking goals, please reach out to us at nicole@focusmag.com.au Thank you to all of the fabulous women and men who are part of this edition!

contacts. 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

COPY EDITOR Sue Chamberlain info@focusmag.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY/EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Rachel Law wedeliverfocus@gmail.com

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Coffs Coast Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 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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contents I S S U E

1 3 4

M A R C H

2 0 2 2

INTERVIEWS

SAM HUYBREGTS

This Coffs singer/songwriter established his musical career performing in Japan and on cruise ships, and he is about to release his original music to the world, as Shuij music.

BEAU SUTHERLAND

This all ‘round sporty kid loves his footy! The 5th generation of his family to play for the Comets he’s looking forward to getting competitive and having some fun this season.

TAYLOR MEAGHER

Art has always been a significant part of Taylor Meagher’s life. Her work has evolved over time and is incredibly emotive as well as beautiful. She tells us about her processes and inspirations.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 28. PFLAG - Sam Dawson 34. Style Edit - Melissa Parisi 50. Talking Destination - Fiona Barden 56. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 102. Fitness Update - Court, Jen & Leanne 103. Physio & Health - Aaron Hardaker CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

TANYA HOWE

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

104. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 109. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 112. Youth Leaders - Cassandra Wilson 124. Money Matters - Tanya Howe

127. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 142. Real Estate - Chris Hines

Thank you for your contribution to focus Follow us on

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SIMMONE MACKINNON

Many of you will recognise Simmone Jade Mackinnon for her role as Stevie on McLeod’s Daughters. After acting the part for 5 years, Simmone has ended up working as a Jillaroo for real on some remote stations in Queensland, and travelling the country with her son Madigan. Her travels have now brought about a new chapter for her; designing her own range of travel wear and accessories aptly named ‘Wandering Ozzie’. 16 COFFS COAST

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i Simmone. Many would recognise you for your role as Stevie on McLeod’s Daughters, amongst other big roles. Can you tell us about how you first got into acting? I started my career as a dancer and I'd never even thought about acting, my passion was always dance. But after I had done a two year run of the musical Cats, my body needed a break. I asked my agent not to submit me for any roles for at least two months. She called the following week with an audition and before I could say no she said it wasn’t dancing, it was a TV commercial and all I had to do was look ”longingly” at a chip. I was reluctant as I was no actor, she responded with “what do you mean you are not an actor, you've just pretended to be a cat for two years?” She had a point, so off I went to look at a KFC chip. I landed the job and proceeded to do another 22 TV commercials over the next three years before landing the role of Allie Reese in Baywatch. It was then that I realised my career had taken a different turn. What were some of the early years in the film industry like for you? My 4 1/2 years in America before coming home for McLeod’s was a challenging time. The competition is fierce and even though

I landed numerous roles and shot in amazing countries like Lithuania and Bulgaria, it’s a tough gig. For every role you get, you have been rejected a hundred other times before. You have to get a thick skin Working on and try not to take life and a time I will hold McLeod’s was a all that rejection close to my heart forever. dream job as an actor personally. They You became a single but when I became a don’t call LA the mum when your son Jillaroo for real in City Of Lost Souls Madigan was born in 2019 I truly believe I for nothing. 2010, how do you think What was it like found my calling. that has shaped this for you workchapter of our life? ing on McLeod’s I always dreamt of Daughters and being a mum and having Madigan on my filming on location? And how did you 37th birthday was the greatest gift I could prepare for the role? have ever been given. Obviously when I I came back to Australia for my final Mcdreamt of being a mum as a kid I never Leod’s audition. I had never even seen the envisioned I’d be doing it solo but life has a show but had heard from many people how way of throwing curve balls and this was an amazing it was and that I’d be perfect for it amazing one and I grabbed hold of it with because of my love for horses and my riding both hands. It definitely has its challenges background. And they were right. Playing but then there’s also a lot of wonderful Stevie Hall for 5 seasons of McLeod’s was things about being a single parent too. a definite highlight of my acting career. A Double the love, double the hugs... double dream role for me and the fact I was able everything. Madigan is my little wingman to ride almost every day was the icing on and our bond is like no other. I couldn’t the cake. The friends I made, the wonderful imagine it any other way. work I did, the stunning South Australian Continued over... outback, all of it was a brilliant time in my COFFS COAST

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You and Madigan have travelled quite a lot together, particularly to some fairly remote areas in Australia, what has that experience been like? Travelling is such a massive part of my life. I was on a plane by myself to Japan the day after my 18th birthday for my first dancing job. I continually travelled from county to country as a dancer, then acting was the same. Working in SA for McLeod’s was the longest I’ve stayed in one place EVER. I am at my best when I am on the move. I crave change and thrive in the unknown and now Madigan has that same gypsy spirit in him too. He’s always asking where our next adventure will be. I think travelling with him at such a young age will give him the ability to adapt to certain situations more easily. He has already visited 18 COFFS COAST

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the yards, adrenaline pumping with cattle that could easily kill me, or out on my own cleaning troughs. That life is my “heaven on earth”. It’s hard work, you are filthy, your body aches, but I felt in every fibre of me that it’s what I was meant I am at my best to do. It’s something I would love to do for the when I am on rest of my life or until the move. I crave 6 countries in his 11 my body was to fail me. change and thrive in years on this earth and Being a single mum with the unknown and loves change as much two dogs and at my age now Madigan has as me, which can be a means it is a bit trickier that same gypsy great asset to have. finding those perfect spirit in him too. You have actually station jobs... but I havspent some time en’t given up on it, not working as a Jillaroo yet anyway. yourself, can you tell Your travel experience led you to starting us about that experience? your brand Wandering Ozzie, can you Working on McLeod’s was a dream job as tell us about the brand and how this an actor but when I became a Jillaroo for real business came about for you? in 2019 I truly believe I found my calling. I I started documenting my travels in 2015 worked at The Yarra Cattle Station in Central under the name of “Wandering Ozzie”. Queensland and then on to Koolatah Station Thanks to McLeod’s I have people from all in Far North Queensland and I can honaround the world following and they can’t estly say with my hand on my heart I have get enough of Australia, so it made sense to never been happier. Whether I was working document my travels. It’s also fun and keeps

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the creative part of my brain alive. Whether it’s taking photos or telling a good yarn, it keeps me “switched on”. When Covid hit two years ago I was forced to be still, like the rest of the world. I couldn’t cross the border to the north for work and then I couldn’t get to a station in Tassie when the second wave hit. I was stuck. I needed to do something, I needed to think outside the small box I found myself in. That’s how my brand was born. My Wandering Ozzie Essentials are all products I love and use while travelling. From journalling to picnics, travel mugs to loungewear, all of my Wandering Ozzie items are practical but multi purpose. For example – the loungewear came about because I loathe wearing my pj’s camping, so I designed my bamboo lounge sets so that they are as comfortable and soft as any pj’s you’ll find but they have a design of streetwear. So you can stumble out of your tent, grab your coffee in your pj’s but know one would ever know. Winning!! Running Wandering Ozzie must be so different to your work as an actress, or your time on a remote station, what has it been like moving into something totally new?

Well I love change and I love a good challenge head, fresh fruit and and my Wandering I was stuck. I vegetables on the Ozzie business venture needed to do table, petrol in the car has definitely been something, I needed to and I’ve certainly never both of those things. I had any domestic viothink outside the really understand the lence issues, but many small box I found quote “if it were easy women have had some myself in. That’s how then everybody would or all of these things do it”. I guess for me my brand was born. to deal with on a daily the challenges lie in the basis. I felt a responsiadministration side of bility to try and help if things, I‘m creative, I I could. don’t have any business What plans or dreams do you have for sense so that’s where I struggle. But in saying the future? that in all my struggles I am learning new My dream is to somehow do it all. Run my things every day. I certainly have some skills I little business here in Coffs which will keep never thought I’d have. my mind at ease but while I'm waiting on You donate some of the profits to an stock to arrive, take off for a bit. Time on the Australian charity, can you tell us about road will take care of our gypsy souls... and the charity and why you chose to supif I can somehow fit in my Jillaroo work, then port them? my heart would be filled too. That’s what I immediately partnered up with The it's all about right? Chasing down all those National Council Of Single Mothers and Their dreams. Going after ALL that sets your soul Children because I know how tough being on fire.Not All Those Who Wander Are Lost. a single mum can be. I know how fortunate Thanks Simmone. I have been. I’ve always had a roof over my COFFS COAST

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MARCH 2022

VANESSA AMOROSI 20 years in the music industry, Vanessa has achieved a massive reputation for her songwriting and dynamic vocal range and ability. Her latest release ‘Volume 1 and 2’ is the introduction to Vanessa’s next chapter in her career, Soul/Gospel. A night not to be missed! Don’t miss out. When 2nd March, 7:30pm Where Sawtell RSL Tickets $50 + BF online, $55 + BF at the door from sawtellrsl.com.au

ISAIAH ‘SPIRIT’ X-Factor Winner, Eurovision Finalist, most streamed First Nations artist in the world & one of Australia’s finest soul vocalists, Isaiah has established himself as a celebrated singer songwriter over the last 3 years. He has collaborated with some of Australia’s finest producers & songwriters, delivering a suite of songs, commonly focused on love & self-discovery. When 5th March Time 3pm Workshop, 7.30pm Show Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com.au 20 COFFS COAST

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THE RUBENS

Brothers Elliott, Sam and Zaac Margin, along with mates Scott Baldwin and William Zeglis make up the band The Rubens. They are currently touring and passing through Coffs Harbour this month. When 4th March Where Hoey Moey Tickets $55 + BF at hoeymoey.com.au

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AND WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD This award will honour a woman who has demonstrated significant leadership/achievement or courage & who has made an outstanding contribution to the community. Also featuring Guest speaker Lorraine Gordon When 8th March Where C.ex Time 6:30am Tickets $55 from Stickytickets

JULIA JACKLIN

On the back of a massive six ARIA Award nominations, Aussie songwriter Julia Jacklin will be performing songs from her muchloved records Don’t Let The Kids Win and Crushing, alongside brand new songs, first-time performances of her poignant and timely 2020 Sub Pop 7” release to ‘Perth before the border Closes / Cry’ and instant indie Christmas classic ‘Baby Jesus is Nobody’s Baby Now’. When 12th March, 7:30pm Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com.au

FIONA

MOTHER & SON

BY GEOFFREY ATHERDEN

From the creator of the hit TV series comes a delightful stage comedy featuring Maggie, Arthur, Robert and Liz. Geoffrey Atherden penned the first TV episodes of Mother & Son in 1984, creating an instant classic and award-winning TV series. When 13th March, 5pm Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com.au Cost Adult $55 | Conc $52 | Members $50 | U30 $38 Group 8+: $45

O’LOUGHLIN LIVE

Fiona is a master storyteller. In her unique and hilarious fashion, she tackles the topic of what it is like to be a babyboomer. Fiona addresses the challenges and consequences of trying to get along with the silent generation, Gen Y and the millennials. When 19th March, 8pm Where Jetty Theatre Tickets jettytheatre.com.au Cost Adult $55 | Conc $52 | Members $50 | Group 8+: $45

THE WIGGLES

It’s time for The Great Wiggly Road Trip Tour! The world’s most popular children’s entertainment band, The Wiggles are travelling across regional New South Wales to perform for you! Celebrating 30 years of Wiggly fun, join Tsehay, Lachy, Simon & Anthony as they sing and dance their way around New South Wales in celebration When 27th March, 10am Where C.ex Coffs Tickets cex.com.au

SAN CISCO San Cisco are a three-piece indie pop group from Fremantle, Western Australia. Set to an upbeat indie-pop groove on the cusp of innocence and heartbreak, this is where San Cisco lives. When 31st March, 6.30pm Where Hoey Moey Tickets $45 + BF from hoeymoey.com.au COFFS COAST

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S I N G E R / S O N G W R I T E R

SAM

HUYBREGTS 22 COFFS COAST

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Sam Huybregts has already made a career for himself through his music, performing for many years at Universal Studios in Japan and on a cruise ship in many different parts of the world. But he is now ready to focus on his work as an individual artist. He has huge amounts of talent and passion for songwriting and singing and is about to release his original music to the world. Do yourself a favour and check him out, his music will be released in the coming weeks as Shuij music on streaming platforms.

ey Sam, where did your music journey begin? My parents gave me piano lessons from a young age. They never pushed, I just loved it ever since I can remember. I’d enter all the Eisteddfods in the Coffs area and just loved playing. If I’m honest, I probably practised extra hard because sometimes it got me out of doing the dishes. We always had a piano in our house because my Grandpa played. The singing side probably comes more from Mum, she can’t have music playing without harmonising along with it. So I ended up going to the Queensland Conservatorium to continue my studies, but along the way I sort of moved away from that classical piano world and into Musical Theatre and choirs. I think I just realised I prefer singing! Your music/entertainment career has taken you to some pretty interesting places, can you tell us about that? I got really lucky in 2013 when I landed a job after auditioning for Universal Studios

Japan. I scored a role as exist, it was a kind I got really lucky Frankenstein, singing of catalyst for me in 2013 when I and dancing in one of to really make the landed a job after the shows there. One decision to make a auditioning for year turned into almost change. I was longing Universal Studios five, it was just so much to come home and fun! During that time I lay down more of a Japan. I scored a role as moved into other roles, foundation for my life. Frankenstein, singing special events shows, You have some and dancing in one of parades and I eventually music soon to be the shows there. became the resident released; how Musical Director. In that would you best job I taught the music for describe your songs? I LOVE pop music. Over the next few all of the live singing shows and parades that months, I’m releasing four singles, and took place in the park. they’re all pop in one way or another. The I then sang on a ship with Norwegian first one, ‘Remind Me’ which is out on the Cruise Lines and visited some beautiful 4th of this month, is an epic ballad. The next places. But uprooting yourself from home has is more of a simple acoustic vibe, and it’s a its downsides for sure. It’s so great to be back love song. home in Sawtell. Then ‘Loved By You’ is empowering and Obviously the C word has significantly upbeat, more your typical feel-good pop affected the performing arts industry, song. My last single shows a very different how did it affect you and your work? side to myself as an artist. It’s really dancy It actually came at a good time for me, in and seductive, this one belongs in the the sense that I was really ready to give up nightclubs! that sort of work anyway. It was fun but also Continued over... lonely. So, when all of that work ceased to COFFS COAST

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What has the process of creating these singles been like? It was TOUGH getting to the point where I felt confident enough to write my own songs and put them out there. I’d tried writing before but was always so scared of what people would think, scared they wouldn’t be very good. It’s tough in a world where it’s so easy to compare yourself to others. But I took a songwriting course, tried to surround myself 24 COFFS COAST

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produced. I contacted an amazing producer, Cam Nacson, and he was excited to get on board. After all that, I got cold feet again, and didn’t get back to him! I’m sure everyone knows the ups and downs of finding confidence and losing it again. With some encouragement from my friends and family and my psychologist, I got back in touch with Cam and we got to work. It went so well that it catapulted me into a bit of a writing rampage and I wrote three more songs and ended up working with Cam on all of them! Maybe at first I We worked through won’t be that good Zoom as he lives in at it, but there’s only Sydney, then I visited him for a couple of weeks one way to get better! So in October last year to I wrote for a few years, record the vocals in his then I wrote ‘Loved By studio. It’s so nice to be You’, and it was the first near the finish line, with song I felt I should try with like-minded ‘Remind Me’ all done and and get professionally people, and I realised the other three tracks produced. I have to try this! It’s almost finalised. a burning desire I’d Do you do much had for a long time, so songwriting as well as I realised I can’t care performing? what people think. Maybe at first I won’t be My passion is songwriting. I hope, through that good at it, but there’s only one way to creating and sharing these songs, to get get better! So I wrote for a few years, then deeper into the songwriting world and meet I wrote ‘Loved By You’, and it was the first more and more people to make songs with. song I felt I should try and get professionally It’s not about performing them myself. It’s the

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SAM

HUYBREGTS cathartic experience of creating a line you’re really happy with that I crave – the feeling of saying something in a way it hasn’t been said before. To capture an idea succinctly and accurately, with an imagery and melody that might strike a chord in someone who hears it. It’s a great feeling and it’s a good way of getting things off your chest. It’s the way I feel I can best express myself. I enjoyed performing for a while, and I’d love to perform songs I’ve written myself, but performing isn’t number one for me. What would you say you are most influenced and inspired by with your music? I think it’s a combination of everything – a love of pop music combined with my background in classical piano, music theatre and choirs, that inspires me and gives my music its specific sound. In this first track, the bridge has a cool piano part inspired by Chopin! He’s one of my favourite I’d be stoked to composers. I’m definitely hear from people inspired by current pop what they think of the writers like Lauv, Julia songs! For me that’s Michaels and Sam Smith. the most rewarding What's your personal thing, to get a message favourite track on this from someone saying new album and why? you and makes you feel they related to a song The one that holds like you don’t fit in. or felt moved by it. the most significance Things have changed to me, and my personal so much, and I’m so favourite, is called ‘He’. grateful for that! But That’ll be out at the end of April. they’re still far from perfect. So this track is Growing up as a member of the LGBTQIA+ more than just a love song, it’s a celebration community was really challenging. and reminder that everyone is allowed to Not seeing yourself represented on TV, love! bullying, just the comments you hear your Where can people have a listen to your whole childhood – it makes you feel ‘wrong’ music or get in touch? and you think you’ll just have to hide it I’d be stoked to hear from people what forever and never really be allowed to love they think of the songs! For me that’s the who you want to love, or live a normal life. most rewarding thing, to get a message from As a teenage boy being asked if there are someone saying they related to a song or felt any girls you like, or even overhearing these moved by it. types of conversations as a kid, it stays with

The easiest way would be to follow my Instagram page @shuij_music. From 4th March my first single will come live on all streaming platforms. So on Spotify for instance, just look for Shuij. I’m actually going to try something really different with this release. Instead of spending money on promotion, I’m asking all of YOU to share it on your Instagram story! I’ll be donating $1 for every share during release week to Beyond Blue, to go towards helping all Australians achieve their best possible mental health. You’ll see more details about that on my Instagram page, it’s really straightforward. Thanks Sam. COFFS COAST

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BEAU SUTHERLAND

Beau Sutherland is an all ‘round sporty kid who loves his footy! He plays for the Comets here in Coffs Harbour and is looking forward to getting competitive and having some fun this coming season playing for the Under 10s. He is the 5th generation of his family to play for the Comets and is a proud member of his club.

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eau, can you introduce yourself to our readers? Hi I am Beau, I was born in Coffs Harbour, I’m 9 years old, I have one little sister Daisy and one little brother Sonny. I go to Saint Augustine’s Primary School. You play footy for the Comets here in Coffs, when did you first start playing? I started to play in under 6s. This year 2022 I am playing in the under 10s. This is my fifth year playing rugby league. I have played every year with the Comets. How often do you train? In previous years we only trained once a week. But now that we are in the under 10s we will train twice a week as we become more competitive and our points count. How did the team go last season? Last season we had a huge number of sign ups for under 9s. We had that many players we needed to make two teams. We had a Red Team and a Gold Team. Both teams were awesome and we had a great year. Both teams were strong and our players all loved the game. We will combine this year and hopefully have some new players to add to our team. This year is the first time I have played in a competition. So I am excited to see the

I am lucky to have family history within my club. Not many other players could say they are a 5th generation at their club! How cool is that!!

points count and hopefully we make it to a grand final!! What do you love about footy? I love the game, the challenges while playing. I love the mates I play with and I love tackling. My favourite NRL team is the Brisbane Broncos. I look up to players like Selwyn Cobbo and Adam Reynolds. They never give up! You have followed in the footsteps of a few of your family members, can you tell us about that? I am the 5th generation to be involved in the Comets Club. In 1968 my Great Great Grandfather (Pop Shepherd) managed my Great Grandfather’s (Matt Rigoni) team. That team was the reserve grade major premiers. My Grandfather (Dean Seccombe) played Juniors to Seniors with the Comets. I have

two uncles (Dylan Seccombe and Cody Seccombe) who also played junior years and Uncle Cody played First Grade. My Dad even coached me for a few years. I am lucky to have family history within my club. Not many other players could say they are a 5th generation at their club! How cool is that!! What are your goals for this upcoming season and beyond? My goal is to put in my best, have good sportsmanship, make new friends and have so much fun! I hope to do some hard tackles and score some tries. My dream is to play in the NRL one day. For this season I really dream of making it to my first grand final! What other sports do you enjoy? I like to watch the AFL, NFL, Basketball, Cricket, Soccer. I enjoy any sport. I like the competition and the fun of it. I like to watch AFL with my Dad and share interest in basketball with my Aunty Nicci. I follow San Francisco 49ers during the NFL season. From a young age I have always supported the Port Power AFL team. My favourite basketball team is the Boston Celtics. I like to look at game highlights and read about the games! Thanks Beau. COFFS COAST

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PFLAG with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

arch, specifically the 31st, is about celebrating International Transgender Day of Visibility and bringing awareness to this part of our LGBTIQ community encouraging discussion about our gender diverse within our own community. I would say that this area is very important these days. It’s important to raise awareness as many families are impacted as their loved ones discover who they are whilst being acutely aware that this makes them “different” and maybe in fear of not being accepted in their own family or amongst friends or immediate community. In our PFLAG meetings I have been made aware of how families are experiencing a lot of mixed emotions around acceptance but then coming up against all sorts of barriers. One barrier that really stood out for me was their child not being able to use their trans name. An example pointed out to me was when using medical facilities that their original (known as the “dead name”) was being constantly used by professionals as well as their sexuality assumed. This is painful for the transgender

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TRANSGENDER DAY adolescent or adult who is trying to be community has changed enormously with accepted as they are and who they identify attitudes to the whole LGBTIQA+ community as. This is not always done purposely but its and in a good way. important to raise this awreness. That is great and I know I threw out a This Transgender Day of Visibility was challenge last month to revisit our own and initiated in 1999 in response to not only our immediate family’s attitudes but it is honouring gender diverse people who had great to see that we are making inroads here. their lives taken by transphobic violence but Everyone deserves to grow and be safe in their also to celebrate and own place. We don’t empower our gender want our youth to have These awareness diverse community by to move to feel safer in a days are removing the stigma bigger community or city. generated to invite attached. These awareness discussions amongst Transgender people days are generated ourselves and have a gender identity to invite discussions workplaces around the or gender expression amongst ourselves and that differs from the workplaces around the world to share stories sex that they were world to share stories and achievements assigned at birth. and achievements with with our gender and Some transgender our gender and diverse diverse community. people who desire community. medical assistance to When Covid settles transition from one sex to another identify as we will be resuming face to face meetups so transsexual. follow us on FB. With awareness comes education and PFLAG is here to give help, support and hopefully a change in thinking and attitudes. information to families and friends of all gay I spoke recently to a wonderful mature gay people right here on the Coffs Coast. pflagcoffscoast.com couple who are planning their wedding and PFLAGcoffcoast 0417 861 045 they actually believe that our Coffs Harbour

GET INVOLVED Lifeline North Coast is all about people – people just like you. Here are some ways you can support our work.

Lifeline’s vision is for an Australia free of suicide, and on a local level you can be part of the solution. Lifeline North Coast needs the support of like-minded people and organisations to join us at the front line of suicide prevention. Eight Australians die every day by suicide. That’s more than double the road toll, and for each life lost to suicide,

DONATE Help us improve the lives of individuals , families and communities affected by emotional distress and thoughts of suicide. FUNDRAISE FOR US Host a fundraising event or activity to support Lifeline North coasts work and make a difference in our local community. VOLUNTEER Lifeline North Coast relies on volunteers to support our community initiatives that enable Lifeline to support people in crisis, no matter where they are 24 hours a day. If you enjoy giving back and connecting to others, then you can help us save lives.

the impacts are felt by up to 135 people, including family members, work colleagues, friends, first responders at the time of death. Our Lifeline Crisis Support Volunteers are currently responding to one call every 30 seconds, and we need help from our community to make a difference. Locally there are a few ways you can get involved. With the help of our corporate partners, people like you, we can

CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS The connection we make with our partners is fundamental to all we do; lives depend on it. Partnering with us provides a unique opportunity to: •

Promote a workplace culture that is inclusive, destigmatises mental health problems, and encourages

reduce the rate of suicide in our region.

help-seeking. •

Empower employees, partners, and customers to be suicide-safe through advocacy, education, and provide important opportunities for connection.

•

Provide suicide prevention strategies which include staff training, research, media influence, and postvention action plans.

•

Protect vulnerable audiences by providing frontline worker training for key staff in key industries i.e., banking and finance, utilities, security, aged care,

If you are interested in finding out more about corporate partnerships, please register your interest with

construction, insurance etc. •

the most vulnerable in our community.

Angela Martin, Communications and Community Engagement Manager,

e. angela.martin@lifeline.org.au ph. 02 6651 4093

Deliver important prevention and intervention services to

•

Fund and develop initiatives that will bolster the longterm social and emotional wellbeing of people by supporting them to recognise, strengthen, and develop their community connections.

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TAYLOR

MEAGHER A R T I S T

Art has always been a significant part of Taylor Meagher’s life. Her work has evolved over time and is incredibly emotive as well as beautiful. She tells us all about her processes and what inspires her work.

i Taylor. When did you first find yourself being drawn to art and wanting to create? Creativity, particularly painting, runs in my family. My grandfather was an amazing oil painter and my mother, Violeta Lanza, is also an artist, so needless to say I was drawn to art from a very young age. I've been surrounded by art since I was a child and was encouraged to nurture my creative gifts. I didn’t find my style of painting until I was much older, when I decided to go backpacking by myself at the age of 18. I was situated in Barcelona when I had a sudden urge to buy myself a watercolour pad and paints. That was when I discovered that I possess a very particular style of painting and I haven’t stopped since. How would you describe your unique style of art? I would describe my style of art as Visionary Art. I tap into the creative void that is my mind and paint my visions into reality/form. It 30 COFFS COAST

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is highly intuitive, spiritual, feminine, vibrant point in my life. I found it very therapeutic and slightly abstract. Full of life and emotionto carry my artwork around with me in evoking. It is my form of storytelling. I would my backpack because my art helped me also call it earth-based understand myself on a as I pull a lot of my creative and emotional inspiration from my level. It added an extra My inspiration connection to the layer of self-discovery to comes from four landscapes surrounding my travels. main pillars. My me. Upon arriving home connection to the land How has your art and settling back in evolved over time? Australia was when I I am fortunate enough My art has evolved started to really own to reside on. The animal immensely over time my gifts. Painting on kingdom. Womanhood just as I have. My a much larger scale, and my journey as a portfolio is a direct exploring my femininity spiritual being. reflection of my own through my art practice. journey as a woman I declared to my friends and as an artist. I like and family that I am in to think of my early body of work, which I fact an artist and started to share my work painted with watercolour paints, as a form of publicly via social media, which was a very art therapy. big deal at that point because it meant that I Not only was I documenting my travels in was not hiding my artworks anymore. My art Europe with my art but on an even deeper style developed over time from depicting the level, I was painting about the parts of myself taboo subjects of being a woman to exploring I had felt disconnected from up until that my connection to nature and the animal

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Before each artwork, I like to go into nature and create an earth mandala, an impermanent piece of work that will eventually be destroyed by the elements.

kingdom. Painting with acrylics marked the beginning of my art career. Moving from watercolour paper to canvas was the catalyst for even bigger growth for me. What media do you like to use and how do the use of different media portray

your message through your art? Right now in my art practice I predominantly paint with acrylics and posca pens. I started with watercolour paints, transitioned to digital art then took the leap of faith and started painting with acrylics a little over a year ago now. Where do you find inspiration and influence when creating your art pieces? My inspiration comes from four main pillars. My connection to the land I am fortunate enough to reside on. The animal kingdom. Womanhood and my journey as a spiritual being. You use different landscapes in your artwork. How does the Coffs Coast play its part in some of your work? I grew up on the Coffs Coast. My family moved to Sawtell in 2002. The landscape has

helped shape me as a person and therefore my art process. I draw my inspiration from the diverse landscapes in the area and how they make me feel. From the rainforest to the mountains and the sea, what more could you ask for? Can you tell us a bit about your process from start to finish when working on a piece? My approach to my creative process is very intentional. The process of painting artwork is an artwork in and of itself. Before each artwork, I like to go into nature and create an earth mandala, an impermanent piece of work that will eventually be destroyed by the elements. My process is fluid but also very structured and methodical. I begin by taking my art journal out and writing down the intention behind the piece and also the important points like particular colours and the subject matter. Continued over... COFFS COAST

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My art journal does not leave my side throughout the entire process, I write down the meaning behind certain elements, the symbology of certain aspects and I also like to paint the pages of my art journal with leftover paint, so not to waste my materials. Meditation is also a crucial part of my process, it enables me to still my mind and receive a vision that will be the piece. This process can be referred to as channelling. It is highly intuitive. Most of the time I have no idea what I will be painting until I put a brush to canvas. Besides journalling, in the beginning, it is not planned in the typical sense of preliminary sketches

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I love the deeper meaning and symbology that this artwork represents. I enjoyed the creative process so much that it is the quickest artwork I have painted to date.

on paper. I first start by painting the entire canvas with the set colour palette. I then sketch the outline of the subject matter with Posca Pens straight onto the canvas. The trick to my work is all in layering. I paint the main body of work and then to finish off the artwork I go over the top with fine-tipped Posca Pens to give that added definition and depth, this is how I do all my line work and patterns. What would be a personal favourite piece and why?

My favourite artwork is the Triple Moon Earth Goddess. This artwork is number 2 in a series of four artworks that I was commissioned to paint for Topi Topi Retreat Centre down in Forster. It is my favourite because it incorporates all of the subject matter that I love to paint about. It’s all about fertility, mother nature and animal symbology. The moon, snake, owl, hare, orchard and Venus of Willendorf all represent women’s wisdom. I love the deeper meaning and symbology that this artwork represents. I enjoyed the creative process so much that it is the quickest artwork I have painted to date. Where can we find out more? You can find my entire portfolio online at taylormeagher.com. Instagram handle is @taylormeagher.artist and I am on Facebook as Taylor Meagher. I have two online stores where you can purchase my work as merchandise. The stores are called Redbubble and Society6. Here are the links: taylormeagher.redbubble.com, society6. com/taylormeagherartist If you would like to know more about me or if you are interested in your very own commissioned artwork, art print and or stretched canvas print then please feel free to contact me via email at taylormeagher.artist@ gmail.com

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VILLA #OMG, COFFS COAST ACCOMMODATION

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the

STYLE EDIT

with MELISSA PARISI

T H E H O L I D AY H O M E S T Y L I S T

HOW TO REIN VIGOR ATE YO UR H O M E WO RK SPAC E

or many of us, our home office has been in use for the last two pandemic years. If you’re starting to feel uninspired or unmotivated in your home workspace, perhaps it’s time for a refresh! A few minor tweaks and some fine-tuning in your space can have a big impact on how you feel and boost your creative energy. 7 Ways to Reinvigorate Your Workspace: 1. Get Organised Working on a cluttered desk can increase your stress levels, distractions and limit your creativity. Consider decluttering by removing items you don’t need from your desk or office. People often get excited about cute décor and cover desks with items that may not function well to work around. Crisp minimalism can sometimes feel better than highly decorated spaces. When decluttering, fight the urge to shove all your papers into the bottom drawer. Instead, use colour-coordinated stackable storage boxes, magazine holders, baskets or drawer dividers to organise supplies. Labelling and filing can also make a huge difference in avoiding scary paper mountains forming on your desk. Quick Tip: Have a dedicated place for everything. Putting your pens, papers and headphones in the same place every day will avoid desk chaos. 2. Stick To Your Colour Palette Use similar tones and colours to keep your space looking clean, calm and peaceful.

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Work with the basics of your existing items, and choose your colour scheme. Replace items that are not in keeping with your scheme. An easy way to determine what needs to go, is to stand on one side of your room and squint whilst looking at the décor. Items that stand out or look out of place are the ones you could consider replacing with something in keeping with your new scheme or look. 3. Ensure Your Desk Is Big Enough If your desk can’t hold your laptop and other items you need to access with ease, you may need a larger desk. If you’re dealing with space constraints, you can get creative with storage. Consider storing items under your desk to maximise desk space and opt for a clutter-free style. If you are purchasing a new desk, invest in a desk you will enjoy working on. The surface should feel smooth and comfortable, and you should be able to move your things around. Quick Tip: Consider upcycling a secondhand desk to be sustainable and keep your expenses down. 4. Have A Comfortable Chair An office is about as much about functionality and comfort as appearance. The perfect desk chair is comfortable enough to spend all day in, but not so cosy that you feel like being slack. Ideally, you want something upright and structured but not uncomfortable or rigid. The exact height, shape and material will depend on who you are and how you like to work.

5. Let Nature In Studies show that nature can instantly make us feel more inspired and see things from a different perspective. Having plants in the office can increase productivity and decrease stress levels. Position your desk to look out a window if possible, and get a plant or two to improve air quality. Taking a break with an outdoor walk is the ultimate inspiration, but if you can’t do that, bring the outside in. Quick Tip: Natural elements like seashells, crystals, driftwood and flowers are all inexpensive ways to change your décor and include things that inspire you. 6. Let There Be Light Lighting can make or break a workspace. The best lighting is the kind that goes unnoticed – natural lighting. Position your desk close to a window. Alternatively, invest in a few lamps and experiment with different bulbs until you’ve crafted a set-up that’s as warm and bright as you want it to be. 7. Things That Make You Smile Sentimental items don’t have to be purely decorative, they can add joy and inspiration to your workspace. Consider using items such as meaningful artwork, items and gifts. For more Information Holiday Home Stylist 0449 17 18 17 Melissa@holidayhomestylist.com.au holidayhomestylist.com.au holidayhomestylist

DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH Enjoy the range of delicious cocktails

from Dark Arts Bar & Brew COFFS COAST

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ark Beach, Coffs Harbour has been alive with people keen to enjoy our beautiful beaches and feel the safety of our volunteer lifesavers who have been on patrols since mid-September. The CHSLSC is a community organisation run by volunteers who are dedicated to protecting members of the public who surf and swim at the beach. Patrols are conducted on weekends and public holidays during the surfing season from September to April. In order to continue to provide this community service, the club requires funding to purchase and maintain lifesaving equipment as well as providing training and fitness opportunities for its members, to ensure volunteers are able to perform to the best of their abilities.

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Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the C.ex Group through their ClubGRANTS Program, the club have been able to purchase and maintain much needed lifesaving equipment. Funding from the sponsorship also goes into providing up-to-date training for all volunteer members. “Patrons at Park Beach are blessed to be able to enjoy the water while being watched over by our exceptional, volunteer patrol members,” Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club President, Terry Maher said.

“A part of our puzzle is that we need to have lifesaving equipment like all-terrain vehicles, inflatable rescue boats, patrol shelter and oxygen equipment. These things aren’t cheap, and they also need to be maintained. Not only that, we invest a lot into our volunteer education and training to upskill our members to ensure our beaches are as safe as they can be.” Maher explained. “So we are extremely grateful for our new Platinum sponsor, the C.ex Group, who have contributed $20,000 in much needed and very much appreciated funding to the Club.”

KAILEY PALLAS

BILLIE-JO PORTER

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Sawtell RSL

f you have taken a walk down the iconic First Avenue in Sawtell lately, you would have noticed a few changes taking place at the Sawtell RSL Club! In December, the team finalised stage one of their much-anticipated renovations. This included a beautiful, new area that is light and breezy with large windows opening up onto the main street. Complementing this space is a new and extensive wine list which includes

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The second stage is re-carpeting the ground floor, a face-lift off the Main bar and a new layout of our gaming room.

beautiful champagnes, such as Moet and Chandon to enjoy while you sit and watch the world go by. The second stage is recarpeting the ground floor, a face-lift off the Main bar and a new layout of our gaming room. Being strong supporters of our local community, Sawtell RSL has enlisted a number

of local businesses to assist in the renovations such as FM Glenn Constructions, Cowlings R&R Carpets, Brett Smith Electrical, Inspired Audio Visual and IGT with the project being managed by Jeffress Associates. Next time you are in Sawtell, stop in to the cool comfort of our Sawtell RSL Club.

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ANTHONY FIELD

THE WIGGLES TOUR

There aren’t many Australians out there that don’t know who The Wiggles are, and there’s a lot of local kiddies very excited to have them touring through Coffs Harbour this month! We spoke to Blue Wiggle Anthony Field about their ongoing success and what’s new for The Wiggles this year.

ey Anthony! We are all very excited to have The Wiggles performing in Coffs Harbour. Can you tell us about what we can expect from this show? We can’t wait to bring The Great Wiggly Road Trip Tour to Coffs Harbour. Audiences can expect to hear all their favourite classic 40 COFFS COAST

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Wiggles songs like ‘Hot Potato’ or ‘Rock a Bye Your Bear’ as well as newer songs like ‘We’re All Fruit Salad’, ‘Hey Tsehay’ and The Wiggles Triple J - Like A Version of ‘Elephant’. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Wiggles show without The Wiggles’ great friends; Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn are joining in on all the fun.

There is a new yellow Wiggle on this tour, can you introduce our readers to her? You’re all in for a real treat! Tsehay joined us at the end of the year, and she’s an incredible dancer and singer who brings a fresh energy to The Wiggles. Tsehay – which means the sun in Amharic – was originally introduced as part of the Fruit Salad TV Wiggles, who have their own YouTube series, and audiences have really embraced her. You’ll recognise her for her sunflower headband and beautiful smile. How long has Tsehay been with the Wiggles crew leading up to putting on the yellow skivvy? Tsehay worked with us as a Wiggly dancer before joining the Fruit Salad TV Wiggles, so we knew that she would be a perfect fit for the group! She’s also an award-winning dancer, representing Australia at the World Latin Dance Championships.

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What do you look out for when it’s time to add a new performer to the Wiggles crew? We’re always evolving and want The Wiggles to be representative of modern-day society, but the most important things are talent and passion for performing. We’re so fortunate to have a cast of truly incredible dancers, singers and musicians who love what they do and want to entertain and educate children. Almost every kid in the country knows The Wiggles. What do you hope kids get out of growing up listening to your songs and watching you perform? We aim to educate and entertain children through song and dance, and we hope they feel accepted for who they are. We often chat to people who grew up watching The Wiggles, and they still remember songs like ‘Big Red Car’ and ‘Hot Potato’, which is great. Evie, who is one of the Fruit Salad TV Wiggles, told us that her first ever gig was a Wiggles show, and now she’s come full circle performing with the Australian National Ballet and us! We aim to What do you educate and most enjoy about entertain children performing live on through song and these tours? dance, and we hope Salad’ in the mix. The Everything! they feel accepted for rest is history! Performing and seeing who they are. Do you plan on doing happy faces in the any other cover songs audience is the best in the future? feeling in the world. We have a new album coming out in There has also been a lot of excitement March called ReWiggled and it’s jam-packed over your Triple J Hottest 100 win! Why with classic Wiggles songs reinterpreted did you choose to cover that song and by some of Australia’s top artists, including how did it feel to get the top spot? Spacey Jane, The Chats and DZ Deathrays. It was such an incredible feeling when And then we cover some of our favourite they announced we were number one! Who songs from amazing artists like AC/DC, would have imagined that we would beat Queen, Rhianna, The Chats and The Rolling Justin Bieber! We recorded ‘Elephant’ for the Stones – it’s so much fun! It features all the Triple J ‘Like a Version’ and never expected it Wiggles from the core group, Fruit Salad TV to take off as it has. When we first recorded Wiggles and the OGs, so there’s something it, it sounded too close to the original, and Nick Webb from the ABC suggested we make for everyone. The original Wiggles often still get it more Wiggly, which is why we added ‘Fruit

involved with shows, how does it go getting everyone together? It’s so good to get the OGs back together! We’re currently doing a reunion tour for adults who grew up with the original Wiggles and it’s been really fun hitting the road again. Murray, Jeff and Greg are always part of The Wiggles, and we’re often working on something together. What else is on the horizon for The Wiggles this year and in the future? We’ve got so many exciting plans for this year – there’s a new TV show, the new album, touring, more Fruit Salad TV for YouTube. We’re just so thankful that we can keep entertaining children and so happy to be back on the road performing live. Thanks Anthony. COFFS COAST

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SHANE

SECCOMBE O F F B E AT

O P E R AT I O N S

Shane Seccombe has been in the entertainment industry for many years, starting out as a muso himself and then moving into booking artists for local venues and now working on major events and festivals as well. His business Offbeat Operations represents many local and touring artists, as well as venues and events.

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i Shane. How long have you been in the entertainment industry? For over 40 years! Can you tell us a bit about Offbeat Operations and how it got started? I played drums in a band called Free N Easy that played all the clubs and hotels up and down the coast, I booked all the shows for the band and got to know all the managers at the venues. Our biggest break was being handed over all the bookings for The Hoey back in the 1980’s. I didn’t have any experience in booking any big touring acts, so I was thrown in the deep end! But within two weeks we were booking all the big guns, like Jimmy Barnes, Noiseworks, Paul Kelly etc.

I didn’t have any experience in booking any big touring acts, so I was thrown in the deep end! But within two weeks we were booking all the big guns, like Jimmy Barnes, Noiseworks, Paul Kelly.

What is your current role with Offbeat Operations? My role now is looking after all the major tours, outdoor festivals and events and we now also run a production company called Offbeat Productions and Events that hire out pro audio to all major touring bands down to small events, and local artists. My wife Lynne does all admin and books local artists, and my daughter Sharni also books touring acts, local artists, does venue consultancy and all publicity. What do you enjoy most about working in the entertainment industry?

Well first you have to love what you do and have a real passion for music, being a muso myself I have always wanted to make sure artists are represented fairly. When I look back on what we have done and the people we have met over the years, the bands we started with when no-one knew them, and where they are now, the friendships made, and the ups and downs of the industry, it makes you a strong person. Putting together major events and seeing people enjoying themselves makes you feel good. Continued over... COFFS COAST

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What sort of venues and acts do you work with? We work with over 14 hotels in NSW and 2 in Queensland and over 12 Clubs on a weekly basis supplying everything from solos, duos, trios, local bands, major touring acts, Comedians and DJs. 90 percent of these venues run 3 days of entertainment per week. We work as exclusive agents for many amazing venues and artists. Some of the acts we work with are Jimmy Barnes, Bliss 44 COFFS COAST

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Slam, Long Way to the Top, Red Hot Summer concerts both in NSW and QLD, Curry Festival, Scotts Heads Festival, Blues & Berries Festival, Make it Rain event, Lakeside Festival in Forster. Plus INXS last shows in Australia, Skyhooks last ever tour, Hunters & Collectors, Jack Johnson, Michael Franti… There are so many great shows. It’s really nice to still be working with the same management companies and bands The one that all these years later. The stands out one that stands out was was being part of being part of the Make the Make it Rain it Rain fundraiser for the fundraiser for the bush fires at The Beach bush fires at The N Eso, Paul Kelly, The Hotel Byron Bay over Beach Hotel Black Sorrows, Daryl two nights with Bernard Byron Bay Braithwaite, Hockey Fanning, Tex Perkins, Dad, San Cisco, The Wolfmother, ARC Rubens, Casey Barnes, (members of Spiderbait, Bondi Cigars, Lisa Hunt, You Am I, Jet) with and all local artists. special guest Steph Gilmore on guitar, Chris What are some of your favourite gigs that Hemsworth, Celeste Barber and working with you’ve been involved with to date? Secret Sounds, Premier artists to make this My first was working with Michael Chugg happen and we raised over $238,000 in two on the Vans Warped tours, then Surf Skate &

I take my hat off to all the hard working venues that kept their entertainment on and worked with the rules so the show could go on.

We strive to keep all our artists working as much as we can and make up for lost time, and ensure our venues are also getting back up on their feet as they also have taken a huge hit

nights! The entertainment industry has taken a huge hit during the pandemic, what are your hopes for the industry moving forward? I hope we can all get on with our lives and move on from this pandemic, we can't just lock ourselves in our lounge rooms forever, we have to learn to live with this and get out and enjoy music again. This industry was hit the hardest out of all this, we have moved major

tours 3 to 4 times, had festivals that we worked on for 8 months being pulled from us within days of the events. I take my hat off to all the hard working venues that kept their entertainment on and worked with the rules so the show could go on, we all need to have food on the table. I hope all States talk to each other a bit more, shutting down state borders, or having different regulations in each state makes it

extremely hard to book a tour. What are some of your plans for Offbeat Operations heading into the future? We strive to keep all our artists working as much as we can and make up for lost time, and ensure our venues are also getting back up on their feet as they also have taken a huge hit, so to have full houses back at our venues again with everyone singing, dancing, drinking and having FUN. Where can people find out more about the artists you represent and the services you offer? Go to our website offbeatoperations.com.au COFFS COAST

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RUBENS ELLIOTT MARGIN

THE RUBENS

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Brothers Elliott, Sam and Zaac Margin, along with mates Scott Baldwin and William Zeglis make up the band The Rubens. They are currently touring and passing through Coffs Harbour this month, so we took the opportunity to have a chat with Elliott!

ey guys. Can versions of the songs before getting you tell us how into the studio to record them properly. the band came We have on occasion written together together? but we’re pretty shy when it comes to Three of us are being creative in the same room. brothers, Sam, Zaac What are you most looking forward and I. Sam and Zaac started the band in to with this tour? 2011 out of boredom really, then asked Being in a room full of people and a me to join. We started writing songs big PA. before realising we needed a drummer Can you tell us about ‘Waste A Day’ if we were going to start playing live, and the inspiration for the song? so we called Scotty who was Sam’s This is one of the rare songs that Sam school mate. He was also probably and I wrote together. It was getting to pretty bored so said yes. We got by the end of recording our last record without a bass player for a while before and this song came really easily out we convinced Will to join us. of a session at Sam’s place. It was too As friends and late for it to get family, what’s onto ‘0202’ but the dynamic like we really loved it between you all so decided to get It was getting when creating it out as a stand to the end of your music and alone. recording our last performing? You released record and this song It’s really an ‘0202’ last year, came really easily advantage being are you working out of a session at brothers and good on much new Sam’s place. It was mates. We’ve spent music at the too late for it to get our lives together so moment or do onto ‘0202’ but we there’s no surprises you like to take really loved it so on the road. We also a break while decided to get it out understand each touring for a other’s tastes and current album? as a stand alone. value our opinions We’re always when it comes to writing while we being in the studio have down time and writing music. so we’re accumulating songs at the How would you describe your style moment. It usually takes a few dud of music? songs before we start seeing what the Probably blues/rock/pop. next record is going to look like so no Can you talk us through what the announcements on album 5 yet. songwriting process is like for you What have you guys got planned guys? for the rest of 2022? Sam and I are the main songwriters in We’re filling it up with as much the band. Most of the time we write on touring as we can to make up for lost our own then show each other demo time! And writing in between. Hoey Moey Hotel I Friday, 4 March 2022 I at 6:00 pm

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The Munro group of McDonald's

Proudly supporting our Juniors

Macca's Junior G rants

Now Open!

Each month a number of grant recipients are chosen based on their commitment in the areas of sporting, academic or community service.

Joshua - Nippers

Nathan - Basketball

Apply Today maccasjuniorgrant.com.au Coffs Harbour • Kempsey • Nambucca • Grafton 48 COFFS COAST

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Connect

Learn

Support

Join the Coffs Coast's premier women in business organisation BWN Membership gives you access to: 25% discount on event pricing Free website directory listing Exclusive access to Facebook Group Free digital workshops Free lunch and learn sessions

$25 redeemable Monday to Sunday Terms and conditions apply

Join on a 2-year membership in the month of March and have your membership extended to June 2024

bwn.org.au

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TALKING DESTINATION

with FIONA BARDEN

FROM COFFS CITY COUNCIL

With the busy summer holiday season long gone, it’s time for the tourism industry to rebuild and recharge for the year ahead.

arch is the month for Coffs Coast tourism businesses to get involved in a variety of activities, events and programs, from the Powering Up Your Online Presence program to hosting ECO Think Forum, a first-of-its-kind event for sustainable tourism businesses from around Australia. And it’s also time to celebrate the successes of our award-winning local businesses. 2021 NSW Tourism Awards. Coffs Coast businesses featured at the recent NSW Tourism Awards with six finalists and several award winners across 29 categories. Gold Award Winner - The Giingan Experience by BMNAC; Silver Award Winner - The Observatory Holiday Apartments; Bronze Award Winners - Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours and Coffs Skydivers; Finalists - Critters Distillery and HWH Stables. Our entire industry benefits from these incredible achievements. Congratulations and well done! Small Business and Beyond Festival. During Small Business Month, this festival for business leaders and big thinkers across the Coffs Coast, will host more than 100 local professionals for three days of inspiring sessions and networking. The program features current themes and business trends, including Mindset & Wellbeing, Sustainable Business, Place Making, Creative Industries, Entrepreneurship and Regional Connectivity. The Small Business and Beyond 50 COFFS COAST

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Festival speakers include trailblazers making significant waves within the changing world of business. All taking place in Coffs Harbour, March 30 - April 1. See 6degreesco.com.au for details. ECO Think Forum. The team at Destination Coffs Coast is thrilled to be co-hosting Ecotourism Australia’s inaugural ECO Think Destination Forum happening at Aanuka Resort on March 23 and 24. The event aligns seamlessly with the Coffs Coast’s recent announcement as the first and only ECO Destination in NSW. The forum features an exciting line-up of speakers from Tourism Australia, TRC Tourism and NSW National Parks & Wildlife. Power Up Your Online Presence. Council’s Industry & Destination Development team are partnering with industry experts for a FREE digital marketing program for businesses on the Coffs Coast that are part of our visitor economy – tourism operators, accommodations, hospitality and retail. The program is committed to helping businesses stay up-to-date with trends and the technology needed to engage with visitors. The program is coordinated by digital specialists Tourism Tribe and involves coaching sessions, workshops and access to ongoing online support. Motel Reimagining Project. Coffs is fortunate to be home to dynamic design duo, Peter Rektor and Robyn Trelore, from Designfocus. New to the region, they have a wealth of international experience in ‘reimagining’ accommodation

businesses. This year the Industry & Destination Development team will be working with Designfocus to assist several Coffs Coast motels through a one-on-one personalised program as the first step to an accommodation refresh. The project will help business owners create something new and exciting, that visitors to the destination will love… and won’t forget! Indulge in a Weekend of Flavour. North Coast Festival of Flavour is part of a FREE Destination NSW food campaign, where local farmers, producers, restaurateurs and brewers come together to create a delicious weekend of food, fun and flavour held on March 26 & 27. Locals can choose their favourite events at www. visitnsw.com and spend the weekend exploring the tastiest trails of the Coffs Coast. The perfect reason to try something new! The Coffs Coast will continue to be among the most attractive destinations for people to visit and enjoy these programs assist to make the Coffs Coast visitor experience more enjoyable and local businesses more sustainable. For more details on any of the listed programs and events email industry@chcc.nsw.gov.au #ECOcoffscoast #CoffsCoast #PlaceOfPlenty #OurPlaceIsGreat

Read P L AY listen WAT C H WITH NICCI SECCOMBE

READ

In the Company of Women – Grace Bonney

The perfect coffee table book for female entrepreneurs, ‘In the Company of Women’ introduces you to over 100 influential and creative women. From all ages, races, backgrounds and industries you are sure to find someone who you can identify with and inspire you.

WATCH

PLAY

And Just Like That... The new chapter of ‘Sex and the City’ follows Carrie, Miranda and Charlotte as they navigate the journey from the complicated reality of life and friendship in their 30s to the even more complicated reality of life and friendship in their 50s.

Pictionary

The Inspired Unemployed

LISTEN

Welcome to the world according to ‘The Inspired Unemployed’. A show hosted by two best mates who still can’t quite believe their luck. It’s completely ridiculous, honest and always fun. Make sure you’re in on the jokes, drama and hijinks. Jack Steele and Matt Ford are two Aussie battlers trying to find themselves and are the duo behind The Inspired Unemployed. They have built an incredible following over the past 12 months by creating content around their take on everyday observations and Australian culture.

In this quick-draw classic, the guesses can be just as hilarious as the sketches, as you use markers to draw your best rendition of the clue on the card. You have one minute to convey what’s on the card. Is it an animal? A person? An action? Just what is that word you’re drawing?? If your team members just aren’t getting it, try a different direction; you never know what kinds of clues might trigger the answer. You take turns drawing, so all players get to channel their inner artists!

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Image by Simon Whittaker Photography

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STEVENSON C O M E D I A N

Ben Stevenson is a local stand up comedian and radio presenter who gets us laughing out loud and also manages to get us thinking at the same time, his observations on people and life are hilarious. He also runs Coffs Comedy putting on monthly shows in both Coffs and Bellingen.

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i Ben. How did you first get into the comedy scene? I got my start when I lived in Melbourne. I’d been orbiting comedy rooms for a while and never had the guts to give it a go. Eventually a friend of mine signed me up to an open mic night their friend ran. It was a night that booked 6 weeks in advance. I probably slept 3 hours those entire six weeks. When the MC called my name, I was so sure I’d pass out. Luckily, I got enough laughs to not be scared off. I learnt very quickly though that when the MC tells the audience it’s your first time, they’ll laugh at almost anything. The audience at my second gig were not as encouraging, but I stuck with it. As a comedian you have to keep the audience engaged at all times. How do you come up with new material? Unlike music or theatre, the only way you can rehearse is with an audience so it’s a lot of trial and error. I write down anything that pops into my head that makes me chuckle and try to recreate that moment with an audience. Sometimes you don’t get why it’s funny and it doesn’t translate at all. Sometimes you miss the mark completely. Every so often you nail it. There’s no rush quite like a new joke killing. When was that “uh huh” moment when you knew that this would be a life passion and career? I distinctly remember my dad driving me and some friends home from the movies, we were 10 years old, and he was cracking all these dirty jokes. My friends were in the back seat in hysterics the whole ride home. It stuck with me how amazing it is that you can conjure that kind of emotion out of someone. I didn’t know you could do it as a job at that point, but since then I was always attempting to make people laugh. Who makes you laugh and why? People in general, we’re such a bizarre species with so many strange rituals and habits. We take ourselves so seriously but we’re incredibly silly when you stop to look at us.

How would you best describe your of magical forest from Fern Gully, and they shows? let me on stage to tell dick jokes which It’s just one man with his back against was very kind of them. the wall, swinging wildly at the world. I I also got to open for Tony Martin, who get caught up in the lack of fairness in life, was my sole inspiration for wanting to so I always try and make fun of people in work in radio. They say don’t meet your positions of power. My favourite bits are heroes, but he was so lovely, and hilarious. the ones that take things that upset me If I had a time machine, I’d go back 10 or anger me and laugh at them, it takes years just to blow younger Ben’s tiny little away the power that those things have mind by telling him about that gig. Might over you. mention Bitcoin as well... What’s the process of putting a show A lot of readers will know you from together like? morning radio, how does doing radio Stressful! Most gigs involve a various compare to performing in front of a lineup of comedians, so it’s a shared live audience? responsibility to not ruin the audience’s There is very immediate feedback with night, but with a solo show it's all on a live audience. You’re rarely wondering you. You have to back yourself. People how they feel about you, which is also tend to buy either terrifying or their tickets last comforting depending minute, which means on the night. My favourite sometimes you’re With radio your bits are the not sure if you’re words have so much ones that take things performing to 5 or more power, so you that upset me or 100 people until just have to be responsible anger me and laugh before a show. Buy with what you say. at them, it takes your tickets early You can be very away the power that people! Buy tickets for cheeky with live those things have your friends as well comedy and get away come to think of it. over you. with a lot, but with What are some radio your reach is of the most much more significant. memorable gigs you’ve performed? I was able to launch a podcast about the The gigs that stay in my memory Coffs housing crisis and bring attention strongest are the train wrecks. Gigs where to the lack of action from our local the audience didn’t know comedy was government in addressing the affordable about to start and you’ve interrupted their housing shortage. (They still haven't done dinner, gigs where the microphone cuts in much though so maybe it didn’t work.) and out, gigs where the air conditioning What would be your dream comedy is 10 times louder than you, or gigs where gig? they’ve decided as a group that they just To be invited to perform on Late Night don’t like you. Dying in the arse is part and with Conan O’Brien back when he had a parcel of live comedy and as terrible as you talk show. It was where I watched a lot of feel at the time, they’re the ones you learn stand up as a kid. from the most and it makes you a stronger How can people best stay updated on performer, so I’ve learnt to embrace it your upcoming events? when it happens. I’m on Instagram @benstevensoncomedy I have been lucky enough to tick off and I also run @CoffsComedy, with regular some bucket list items in my career too. I gigs in Coffs and Bellingen. was invited to perform at the Lighthouse I’m also performing my solo show at for Darwin Festival, it’s a gorgeous Newcastle Fringe on March 19th, so if you outdoor pop-up venue they set up in the know anyone in the area, please tell them middle of the dry season. The whole park to buy tickets (early, and for their friends is filled with fairy lights like it’s some sort too). COFFS COAST

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This year marks 100 years of the NSW Country Women’s Association. Many know the CWA for their craft and baking skills but may not realise how influential they have been in making changes over the years for the benefit of the community, particularly for women and families. We spoke to Urunga Branch President Margaret Grice-Little about her experience as part of the CWA.

i Margaret. How long have you been involved with the CWA? I became interested in the CWA when I moved from Sydney into Urunga in the early 1990s. A close family friend, Mrs Daphne Williams whetted my appetite with stories and photos of what the girls had been up to. Daphne was a Bellingen Citizen of the Year in 1997, and by the time I joined she was our branch patron. What fascinated me about the organisation more than their baking and craft has been their advocacy for improving

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the welfare of country women, families and children. As I was a teacher I didn’t get an opportunity to attend their day time meetings until I took some leave in 2007. I joined a fair while later but the then President Mrs Elizabeth (Betty) Cornwall’s son was a neighbour and friend so I continued to learn about the role of the Branch in our town. I have been a member since 2008 making this my 14th year. Can you tell us about your role with Urunga CWA? I have been Branch President for the past 4 years. Prior to that I was Branch Secretary for 3 years and for several years before that, I was

our International Officer. What sort of things does the group do on a regular basis? Our branch meets every Friday for craft and, before Covid, a cuppa. We are very fortunate that we have many talented patchworkers and quilters who now meet every Monday. We have hosted the Department of Health’s Mother and Babies Clinic each Monday for the last 7 years. The Department of Health also runs immunisation clinics on the third Thursday of each month. We hire our rooms out to the local community when the need arises.

It is so sad one of our older members is not here to answer that question. In the past the CWA hosted Balls, special events and markets. The older girls were regularly called on to provide food for community events which were held in the Literary Institute. We are in the process of developing an intergenerational community garden in the space behind our rooms. If we are successful we will be the first Branch to establish and maintain a community garden. Our design features a bush tucker garden, and hard paths to allow for people on walkers and mopeds. We are working closely with our neighbour the preschool and we have been seeking sponsorship from the community. What is something people may not know about being a member of the CWA? At our Garden Party on Monday 14 February to mark the first centenary of the CWA, Anne Rehwinkel the Group President for the North Coast listed simple achievements like the white line on the side of our highways, helmets for motorcyclists, seat belts in cars to name a few. It is championing equality for On Valentine’s women in the bush to share the same amenities Day 1930 a as city girls like mother meeting of local and baby clinics. citizens was held at The CWA is the Ocean View celebrating 100 years Hotel. We do suspect this year. How have it was in the Ladies you celebrated that Lounge. From this milestone and what meeting a committee are your hopes for the We have an artists’ was formed with Mrs future of the CWA? group who travel from Wilson elected as As I said previously we all over the east coast President. hosted a garden party. to stay in Urunga and Following that we broke they use our rooms ground and planted for their week-long citrus trees at the front painting workshop. We currently have a Book of the room. This is to let the community Club which meets on the last Wednesday know our community garden is more than of each month. We have a stall at Urunga a dream and we will be working with the Riverside Markets 6 times a year. community to establish. We chose citrus for The CWA has been involved with many our jam making and pickling projects. community projects and initiatives over My hope for the future is that younger the years, what are some that stand out women and girls will see the relevance to you? of an organisation run by women (with

some assistance from men) that will lobby governments to improve outcomes for women such as the issue of homelessness for older women. To support an organisation which tirelessly raises funds for bushfire relief, drought relief, medical research into women’s diseases like ovarian cancer where the funds are directed without additional imposts placed on the amount raised. Could you tell us a bit about the history of the Urunga CWA? Urunga Branch has an amazing history. Since 1923 there had been a group of people led by Mrs Wilson who ran balls and other events to raise money for the Raleigh Hospital in Bellingen. The CWA had only been established 8 years earlier. On Valentine’s Day 1930 a meeting of local citizens was held at the Ocean View Hotel. We do suspect it was in the Ladies Lounge. From this meeting a committee was formed with Mrs Wilson elected as President. We have Mrs Wilson’s correspondence which shows that the members continued to support the hospital with a Linen party one year. This involved CWA members donating linen to the hospital due to the hospital having no availability of these items. Also individual families approached the CWA with issues about sick children who needed medical treatment and helping unemployed fathers. Remember this was a time before the social security system we enjoy today. Our Branch has been in awe of Mrs Wilson’s achievements which include founding Bellingen Branch, gifting land to Glenreagh to build their rooms on, as well as becoming a life member 4 years after establishing our Branch. Mrs Wilson also travelled to England by ship to represent the CWA of NSW before WW2. This is why the garden project is now known as “The Mrs Wilson Community Garden Urunga.” What would you say to any local women thinking of joining? If you like to spend time with talented and creative women, who share a vast range of talents, knowledge and experience, what are you waiting for? Please come to the rooms at 35 Morgo Street, Urunga on a Monday from 9ish to 12 or on Friday and introduce yourself.

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STAT E O F

PLAY

with

COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

ONE OF THE THINGS I MISS THE MOST FROM WORKING ON THE FARM IS THE HOURS OF TIME I WOULD HAVE TO LISTEN TO PODCASTS WHILE DOING JOBS ON THE TRACTOR.

y favourite podcast is called Hardcore History which deep-dives into various historical topics.

One of the earlier episodes discusses whether our current generation is as tough as previous generations. The presenter speculates as to whether the tough economic conditions after World War 1 created a generation of tougher people. That generation had to live through the Great Depression and immediately after that, faced off existential threat in World War 2. Although our lives have challenges now, they pale in comparison to the challenges of that era. When the COVID-19 Pandemic first hit our shores over 2 years ago, we knew that our lives would never quite be the same. We knew that this would be a difficult and challenging time. The virus was highly infectious, and potentially deadly for those who catch it. 56 COFFS COAST

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Governments worldwide took We have learnt resilience. You cannot be unprecedented action to slow the spread given resilience and it cannot be taught. of the virus and within a short time New It is something that must be developed. South Wales was locked down. Most Something that must be built. businesses were forced The impacts of the to shut. Schools were pandemic have touched Governments closed and community all of our lives. The reality worldwide took sport stopped. No one of the last two years has unprecedented action could have imagined a meant that our lives have to slow the spread of scenario like this would been tougher than what have occurred in our the virus and within a they might otherwise lifetimes. short time New South have been. As a society The last two years we have seen lockdowns imposed and eased as the various waves have passed. The latest wave, Omicron, is nearing its end and hopefully any future waves will be less severe.

Wales was locked down. Most businesses were forced to shut. Schools were closed and community sport stopped.

I believe that the pandemic has made us stronger as a society overall.

we have experienced a level of uncertainty that we’re unaccustomed to.

Many of us have felt the emotions our grandparents and greatgrandparents might have felt a hundred years ago. The next challenge we have is leveraging that mindset to create a better future for us all – just like they did.

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 August 2020

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focus_interview Yvette checks Ozzie’s mouth. The animals voluntarily participate in their own health care

MARINE

CONSERVATION PARK LEADS THE WORLD

Dolphin Marine Conservation Park boasts the most successful breeding program for Australian sea lions globally.

ince rescuing the first sea lions in 1975, 14 pups have been born at the park. Assistant Manager, Yvette, explains why the Australian Species Management Program (ASMP) is critical. What is ASMP? In the wild, Australian sea lions are endangered. Sadly, numbers are declining. The population is about 6,500 adults; if we lose them, we can never replace them. ASMP is critical in coordinating the protection of threatened species. Each program manages animal populations for protection against extinction, release to the wild, conservation research and community education. Our participation is vital. If we didn’t contribute, Australian sea lions under human care would diminish to a level with no safe genetic matches and end breeding within a decade. The greater the genetic pool, the more options to continue the breeding program. These animals provide essential information to help support their wild counterparts. How do you work with ASMP? I support breeding decisions and animal transfers between facilities. Routinely, I care for our animals and work closely with any pups we breed. I train and develop team members and ensure they understand the importance of their jobs in the lives of these animals. I also help in the logistical planning of breeding, so all the animals are well cared for. 58 COFFS COAST

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Why is accreditation local council accepts in important? the yellow recycling bin I love caring for ASMP is part of the (it’s less than you think). Hugo, our twoZoo and Aquarium • Repair broken items year-old Australian Association Australasia and reuse products sea lion pup born (ZAA), the peak body where possible. here from rescued for animal welfare. ZAA • Reduce your carbon mum Adelaide and accredited organisations footprint to assist in dad Ozzie. meet a rigorous screening slowing down climate process and provide the change. highest standards of care • Everything you do to for their animals. protect the planet helps wild animals thrive. Dolphin Marine Conservation Park is This year marks your 10th year working incredibly proud of our ZAA accreditation. with marine animals. Can you share a We work actively with ZAA to ensure our highlight? endangered Australian sea lion population I love caring for Hugo, our two-year-old continues to breed for future generations. Australian sea lion pup born here from rescued How can people help? mum Adelaide and dad Ozzie. He is very clever Human behaviours and pollution are the as well as adorable! greatest threats to Australian sea lions (and What are your hopes for the future? all marine wildlife). However, there are simple I’d like to see more emphasis on protecting actions we can take to improve: endangered animals, including our Australian • When buying seafood, look for the Marine sea lions. Biodiversity is key to life on earth, Stewardship Council (MSC) logo to know your and it’s important to acknowledge the negative purchases aren’t depleting wild fish stocks. If impacts humans make on our planet. I urge fishing practices continue at the current rate, people to develop innovative solutions to experts say our seafood industry will collapse correct the problems we have caused and by 2050. create a society that can live sustainably • Take care of the environment, clean it up and alongside our amazing marine creatures. educate others. Visit Dolphin Marine Conservation Park to • Refuse products with excess by-products and see Australian sea lions up close and learn more packaging. about their conservation work to protect these • Reduce waste, especially plastics. endangered marine mammals and the oceans. • Recycle and keep up to date with what your dolphinmarineconservation.com.au

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PROFESSOR I N H E A LT H E Q U I T Y, THEME LEADER CLINICAL A N D H E A LT H SERVICES RESEARCH.

PROFESSOR

GILLIAN GOULD SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

ell us about your work. I am a registered GP and Tobacco Treatment Specialist. I co-developed, and am now leading, the first national trial of a quit smoking program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pregnant women, iSISTAQUIT, at Southern Cross University. I work at the Coffs Harbour Refugee Health Clinic, which I co-founded in 2006. As theme leader for clinical and health services research I aim to build the capacity of early career researchers, and support the University’s international leadership in health research. What motivates you? I feel passionately about changing health outcomes for people in this country, especially people who have difficulty accessing quality healthcare. I look at how we can use people’s own stories as well as science and data to change perceptions and behaviour, with the aim ultimately of improving health outcomes. I feel blessed to live in such a beautiful place as Coffs Harbour. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your project changed? To be more imaginative and flexible; the services we are working with are doing it so tough. We have just finished a clinical trial to support Indigenous women to quit smoking in over 20 services across Australia, and have moved to implement 60 COFFS COAST

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it in a further 22 services. We are using Western and Aboriginal frameworks to deliver this program, both through Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and hospital-based antenatal services. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in your work? The next phase of iSISTAQUIT is scaling it nationally. We are very fortunate to have funding from the Global Alliance for Chronic Disease. My own goal is to build more effective messages around supporting people to protect their health as their greatest asset. As a life-long learner, I am finishing my seventh degree which is in digital communication strategy and really excited to see how I can apply this knowledge to our iSISTAQUIT social media campaign. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Seeing the need for iSISTAQUIT and the enthusiasm for it all across the country. We have also had interest from other countries for iSISTAQUIT to be adapted to their own contexts. I think the definition of success in any healthcare project is seeing real outcomes – so in this case fewer numbers of women smoking in pregnancy and healthier babies. The pilot study saw a 14 percent increase in people who successfully quit smoking. What or who has been your greatest influence and why? It may sound odd, but my greatest inspiration is the future talent coming into

my team as students and researchers, from many other disciplines and cultures. They surpass me in excellence, and fill me with optimism to continue when times get tough. Someone I admire in my work is Professor Christi Patten who I spent time with at the Mayo Clinic, USA, a few years ago. We research in a similar field and she has been a great role model. Working closely with one of our local stars, Dr Marilyn Clarke, O&G Specialist, has also been a great privilege for me. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Gaining my PhD in 2015. It was a creative enterprise and helped me become very independent in my thinking. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female leaders reading this? We need to believe more in ourselves; that thought we had, the one we let slide by silently, maybe it’s the one that could change everything for the better. What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? Twitter @GillianSGould LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/gillian-gould Research researchportal.scu.edu.au/esploro/ profile/gillian_gould/

PROFESSOR

KIRSTEN

DIRECTOR, NAT I O NA L M A R I N E SCIENCE CENTRE

BENKENDORFF SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

ell us about your role. I am the Director of the National Marine Science Centre, a campus of Southern Cross University, where we teach the Bachelor of Science Marine specialisation. We undertake worldclass research that addresses issues relating to the resilience of marine ecosystems and resources. We have a large team of academics and students. Our specialist facilities include a high through-put seawater system, aquaculture facility and the Solitary Islands Aquarium that is open to the public. What motivates you in your role and work? A passion for new knowledge and educating people about the importance of the marine environment. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your work changed? We need to be both strategic and adaptive during complex times. The university sector across Australia has been significantly impacted in the last 12 months by reduced Government funding, as well as COVID. This has resulted in a huge numbers of staff redundancies across the sector, whilst we simultaneously experienced the pressures of converting to online teaching. In these situations, it is really important to support staff with clear communication, to ensure we are all working together towards positive change.

Image credit Rob Cleary/Seen Australia

Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success means ensuring my team can continue to achieve internationally impactful research, while inspiring students with a world class education that maximises their potential to contribute to a sustainable future. What or who has been your greatest influence and why? One of my greatest influences from an early age has been Rachael Carson. She wrote the seminal book ‘Silent Spring’, which was the first to highlight the environmental consequences associated with pesticide use. Nearly 60 years later, my research is documenting the impacts of modern pesticides in aquatic environments, including the risks to seafood. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? I was awarded the Dorothy Hill Award from the Australian Academy of Sciences in 2011 in recognition of my contributions to marine science. However, I am most proud of the fact that 31 PhD students have completed their doctoral studies under my supervision, from 14 different nations, including 9 developing countries. What local female leaders do you admire and why? I really admire one of my colleagues, Dr Hanabeth Luke, who is also running as an Independent candidate for Page in the next Federal election. She was instrumental in

establishing the Regenerative Agriculture degrees at Southern Cross University. She is a true leader with the resilience and strength required to be a leading female politician. If any, what challenges have you experienced as a women during your overall career? Gender imbalance in academia – particularly at the higher levels in Science and Engineering. The constant request to take on heavy administrative service loads, at the expense of time for research. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female leaders reading this? You have to believe in yourself and develop an internal resilience. It doesn’t help to get offended and be reactive, but when you have something to say, speak out with confidence and make sure your voice is heard – otherwise others just take the credit, while you do all the work! What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? Email: kirsten.benkendorff@scu.edu.au Research: researchportal.scu.edu.au/profile/ kirsten_benkendorff/

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Supporting our community for nearly

THREE D

Our approach has always been the wellbeing of our children, families, and staff. Maintaining the provision of this critical service in the Coffs community, over an extended period has always been our

We understand the stresses faced by families and our educators, that of multitasking and managing a hectic work/

goal and reflects the evolving situation we have been presently working within. Taking consistent action, based on the best

life balance. If not supported this can lead to high levels of stress. 3 Bears has always recognised this and appreciates this

research has been the secret to our long success.

by way of providing extra benefits.

As a business of over 26 years, we are well-versed in what our service community needs and in return have been able to

It is important to be there for each other through the hard times, as well as the good times. Our families at 3 Bears benefit

reflect on this and respond with a robust business continuity plan that reflects consistent action.

from our “giving circle” initiative. If there is a family tragedy or a family member has a problem, pulling together can really help.

DECADES

Being part of this circle enables families to openly communicate and support each other informally. Sometimes reassurance and support during hard times from like-minded, impartial people can really help. Small gestures of gratitude like giving educators a paid day off for their birthdays or celebrating their interests and what makes them happy, with a special day “all about me”, can be credited for an increase in staff morale over the “pandemic burnout”. We have seen

If you would like to connect with us as a new family

in the past educators share with our 3 Bears community, water fun days, grazing platters, wacky dress, and ice cream for everyone.

Phone 02 6652 5656 Email 3bearscottage@live.com.au

or an employee, please contact Renae or Bree

MICHELLE WILSON WIG WISE

OWNER/ WIG SPECIALIST – SPECIALISING IN WIGS FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS.

ell us about your business. Wig Wise is your local shop for all things Wigs. Medical Wigs, Fashion, Costume, Festival and Party Wigs. Wig Wise also supplies Hair Toppers, Additions, Hair Extensions, Halos, Ponytails, Turbans, Headwear and all related accessories. Wig Wise evolved from my passion to make people “feel good about themselves”. After hairdressing within the Coffs locality for nearly 30 years and then managing a hair and beauty wholesale warehouse, dealing with hairdressers and beauty therapists on a daily basis, I could see there was a real need within our area for people needing replacement hair due to hair loss and thinning. It didn’t seem right that you had to travel to a major city to get help with this, so I started my research, 64 COFFS COAST

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study and learning with my ideas turning into I strive to find the perfect look for every “Wig Wise”. individual who contacts me suffering hair loss Wig Wise provides a personalised, oneor just wanting to look different, whether they on-one service are adults of all genders with a sensitive or children. Anyone. I professionalism. I fully Care!! Wig Wise provides respect individual My business motto a personalised, situations due to not is “If it looks like a wig, one-on-one service only hair loss but also then it’s not the right with a sensitive personal changes. wig”… professionalism. I fully We’re proud to now What motivates respect individual stock products by you in your role and situations due to not some of the world’s business? only hair loss but also leading wigmakers My greatest personal changes. and hair extension motivation is to be able specialists, along to meet and also help so with the beautiful many different people Christine Headwear range which offers from all walks of life. We all have a story and stunning headwear for women undergoing every single story is important. I love finding chemotherapy. the perfect hair solution for every problem,

and the satisfaction that comes from that is local hospitals and also working more closely amazing. The wide diversity of what I do is with the AAAF, Australia Alopecia Areata also very motivating, not really knowing what Foundation, improving the lives of people anyone wants until you meet and connect. living with Alopecia Areata. Both organisations What have you learnt over the past make a huge difference to people in need of 12 months and how has your business this assistance. I am also starting an online changed? retail business selling professional Hair and My business is still quite new and evolving. Beauty products for everyday people, an One of the main things I have learnt is to really extension of Wig Wise called Hair, Beauty, listen to what someone wants or needs, how Barber Wise. It’s going to be a very busy year. they are feeling, and Describe for us your working with them to definition of success find that perfect result. relevant to your I knew nothing I have a great respect industry/role. about wigs and for individuality and Success to me is client was very daunted in believe that “if that’s satisfaction. Being able the beginning. I am what makes you happy, to provide my customers now dealing with many then that’s what life’s with the perfect product people who have been in about.” they need and seeing the Industry for years Do you have a goal them walk away more and am quite confident this year for yourself confident and happy. in my growing personally or in That to me is True knowledge. business? Success! My goal for 2022 is What would you to thrive on education say is your greatest and build my business. I have some great professional accomplishment to date? colleagues both here in Australia and also That would be building my own wig America who are giving me opportunities business from what started as a dream to grow my knowledge of the industry. I am to help people in our community. I knew looking forward to being able to get back nothing about wigs and was very daunted in into volunteering with the” Look Good Feel the beginning. I am now dealing with many Better “ program, helping cancer patients, at people who have been in the Industry for

years and am quite confident in my growing knowledge. What local female business leaders do you admire and why? I have great admiration for all female business leaders as it takes confidence and courage to build a dream and work with it, and also maintain a happy balance within their home lives. In particular my yoga teacher Gosia Pendel, Coffs Yoga Hub, who has taught me life balance, self awareness, strength and guidance. She is amazing. Also Ellen Slater from Joyland Carers Retreat, who works tirelessly helping people who help others. I am humbled by her. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? If your passion is deep enough and you truly believe in what you are doing, do your research, don’t be afraid to ask for help and just go for it…

0434243024 wigwise@outlook.com wigwise.com.au hairbeautybarberwise.com.au wigwisecoffsharbour COFFS COAST

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ERIN CACEDA ALLEGRA SCHOOL COFFS HARBOUR P R I N C I PA L

ell us about your business. Allegra is changing the face of learning for Years 9 and 10 by offering a dynamic, progressive educational experience. We focus on the interconnectedness of wellbeing and learning, prioritise respectful relationships and personal growth and see collaboration between staff and students as integral to our learning environment. This makes Allegra a popular choice for students who find studying and/or socialising in mainstream educational models challenging. What motivates you in your role and business? Students and their futures. I am committed to promoting intellectual and social growth and development within the school community to facilitate the development of well rounded, confident and responsible individuals who aspire to achieve their full potential. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? After listening to the voices of parents and the community, it became apparent students were crying out to be supported, academically and socioemotionally. Not only have we renovated our entire space, we have expanded our team to include experienced Learning Support staff and a School Psychologist.

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Do you have a goal this year for yourself or in business? To become more visible in the community. Our staff and students are doing amazing things and I look forward to supporting them to collaborate with the community, to spread our message and learn how we can incorporate real-life learning into classrooms. Describe your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success comes in all shapes. For some students it’s pushing through anxiety to raise a hand in class, for others it is finding passion for study. By providing flexible educational opportunities in a prejudice-free setting, we give students a platform to explore and clarify their beliefs and values. Success, for me, will come when this model is a reality across the whole educational system. Who has been your greatest influence in business? The greatest influence in business is my team. They are the industry experts; challenging expectations and perceptions daily about what education should ‘look like’. What is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Raising the stature of the school. Since the school’s inception in 2017, our objectives have changed to reflect what the community needs - a school based on inclusivity, diversity and individuality. These three words are more than a school motto;

they are my blueprint for continued growth. What local female business leaders do you admire and why? Coffs Harbour OzHarvest Chapter Co-ordinator Julie Ferguson. She turned her challenging upbringing into motivation to establish a local food rescue service which provides thousands of meals to help feed vulnerable local people. What, if any, challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your career? I have been incredibly lucky, my parents instilled a work ethic that didn’t include gender bias. I have been supported in my leadership journey, regardless of the challenge. What one piece of advice would you give aspiring female business leaders reading this? Always back yourself; if you think you can, you can. If you think you can’t, do it anyway. You will most likely surprise yourself.

allegraschool.nsw.edu.au allegraschoolcoffsharbour

RENEE CHETTY COFFS COAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE COLLEGE MANAGER

ell us about your changed? I have learnt that no matter business. Coffs Coast what I’m doing change is inevitable and Community College is a something I should welcome. This means not for profit Registered seeing every challenge as a reason to Training Organisation question, share and build upon. The team that delivers nationally has learnt the meaning of sharing the recognised training and leisure courses. We load, doing something that you have not have just relocated done before and into a new custom enjoying the process. designed space in the It has turned into The team has heart of the Coffs a dream come true learnt the City Centre and are with an incredible meaning of sharing excited to be able space to work in and the load, doing to provide modern continuing to change something that you facilities to our lives. have not done before students. Do you have a

and enjoying the

What motivates goal this year for process. It has turned you in your role yourself personally into a dream come and business? The or in business? The true with an incredible staff and students goal for the business space to work in and motivate me every this year is to ground continuing to change day. They have ourselves in the new lives. amazing stories space and to reach to tell, each with out to community and something different provide help where to teach me and they motivate me to want we can. Building a strong team who love to learn. To improve what I do, and to coming to work each day and striving to be listen to what has made them who they an employer of choice. are, is an incredible thing to be a part of. Describe for us your definition of What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business

‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success for me is seeing achievement and

that doesn’t always mean fully completing a course. It may just be walking in the door, taking that very small first step. Seeing those shoulders relax and a smile appear on their face. That is success for me. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? College Manager at the Coffs Coast Community College is a career dream. To be able to lead a team of people who are so dedicated in what they do. Many years ago working as a casual trainer I never imagined I would be that person at the helm. It still feels surreal and then I hear one of my kids tell their friends what Mum does and it melts my heart, that’s what makes me feel accomplished.

Contact me at the campus, better yet come see and me and I’ll show you around! Level 1, Suite 201, The Vault, 92-98 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. 02 6652 5378

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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

DALLAS OXFORD C.ex GROUP

changed? ell us about the business. Covid brought about huge changes in Most people would be workforces throughout the whole world and familiar with the C.ex Group our business has certainly been impacted by as the largest registered the shift of employees and circumstances Club in the area. We’ve during this time. Staff have always been been a part of the Coffs a priority, but we have now recognised Coast community for over 70 years and our workforce as our number one asset. currently employ more than 160 staff with We are committed to plans to expand that ensuring we have the number. best possible team to What motivates you I love having continue delivering the in your role? service and facilities that I became passionate the ability to will take us long into the about Human contribute, not only future. Resources while to our people and Do you have a goal undertaking my their experience while this year for yourself degree, realising the employed at C.ex, but personally or in importance of great also to the business business? people management itself and what it To bring real in achieving results then gives back to opportunities for our for a business. I have our members and the workforce to excel, been with C.ex Group community. both in their roles at for a long time and C.ex and beyond. We truly care about our are investing in our community and what staff with a number of new initiatives C.ex brings to it. I love having the ability to which is where my new role as Workforce contribute, not only to our people and their Development Manager comes into play. I experience while employed at C.ex, but also look forward to seeing results through our to the business itself and what it then gives back to our members and the community. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has the business 68 COFFS COAST

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team members – going from strength to strength as individuals, developing our team as a whole and ensuring retention of talent

that will be a part of C.ex Group’s longterm future. I would love for more people to realise the opportunities within the Club industry and the experience we at C.ex Group can provide. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? I feel accomplished being a part of such a dynamic and forward thinking team and being able to bring new ideas forward that are implemented as part of our strategic plan. I guess I’ve come a long way from the 18-year-old girl fresh out of year 12 who first started working at C.ex Group all those years ago! What local female business leaders do you admire and why? I grew up in Coffs with three sisters who are all strong, intelligent and motivated women that have inspired me and continue to do so.

dallas.oxford@cex.com.au dallas-oxford-630a4a226

KAREN CURNOW C.ex GROUP HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

hat motivates have been selected for the Career Revive you in your role program which is an Australian Government and business? initiative to support women with existing Customer work experience who are returning to the service is my workforce after an extended period of time number one out of the workforce – typically 2 years or motivator. Our core business is hospitality, so more. The key goal of the program is to customer service is what drives our business promote confidence, strength and resilience as we deliver a service to our members and on their journey back into the workforce. guests. No day is the I’m very passionate same and currently we about this program are busy recruiting the and we look forward right staff to continue to working with some The key goal of to deliver and uphold great women. the program the excellent customer What local female is to promote service values C.ex business leaders do confidence, strength Group is known for. you admire and why? and resilience on their I’m also extremely I admire any journey back into the proud of our staff and woman who doesn’t workforce. I’m very the support we have compromise their passionate about this all shared during the values. You have to be program and we look last two years due to happy with decisions forward to working Covid-19 interrupting you make as it not only with some great our operations and our impacts operationally lives. on your business but women. Do you have a goal also on the lives of the this year for yourself people around you personally or in whether they are staff, business? family or your students. BE AUTHENTIC. Yes, we launched the C.ex Group WBW If any, what challenges have you (Women Back to Work) program on February experienced as a woman in business 1 this year. We were fortunate enough to during your overall career?

I’ve always been mindful to have a life outside of work, this has been a challenge at times but it’s extremely important for your mental health and family life. During my overall career I would have to say developing the confidence to speak up in a male dominated industry has been a challenge which I’m happy to say I’m comfortable with now I’m over 60. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? I think it is important to stick to your values, listen to what people are saying, recognise your own weaknesses as a leader and gather great people around you, as you need their support, and embrace change as its constant and evolving and you need to stay relevant if you want a career. Change is good. There are two things in life you are in total control over: your attitude and your effort.

karen.curnow@cex.com.au cex.com.au COFFS COAST

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MELISSA PARISI OWNER AND HEAD DESIGNER

T H E H O L I D AY H O M E S T Y L I S T

ell us about your business... Holiday Home Stylist is a consultancy that creates beautiful, functional and successful holiday homes on the Coffs Coast. As holiday home experts, we partner with Coffs Coast Accommodation and guide clients through design aspects such as appropriate furnishings, items required, bedding configurations, optimum floor plans and how to make accessible and eco-friendly holiday homes. Whether owners wish to prepare their investment property for holiday listing to maximise investment return, or simply want a holiday feeling in their own home, we create better holiday homes that are practical and will stand the test of time. What motivates you in your role and business? I love the satisfaction of creating spaces that are welcoming, comfortable and inspiring. Creating holiday homes that guests love to holiday in, plus helping clients maximise their investment return is very rewarding. Adding value to our local tourism sector by improving the range and quality of holiday home listings is also a major motivation. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? My business has grown significantly in the last 12 months, and I now proudly have a team helping me to deliver exceptional holiday homes for clients. I’ve learnt to adapt to the unexpected, to embrace change and to say yes to new challenges. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success for me is being known as an expert in my field, having happy clients and receiving positive feedback from guests in holiday homes that I have furnished. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? Dream big, follow your heart so you can achieve great things doing what you love. “Make the impossible possible.”

www.holidayhomestylist.com.au holidayhomestylist melissa@holidayhomestylist.com.au 0449 17 18 17 70 COFFS COAST

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ell us about your business... We are a boutique agency managing short-term rental accommodation on the Coffs Coast. We have been in operation for over five years with a portfolio of over 50 properties, including Luxury, Family Friendly, Pet Friendly, Corporate Stay, Couples Dream and Accessible holiday homes. We welcome around 4000 guests per year and proudly support a team of small business owners, ensuring the money earned locally stays in the community.

MONIQUE

FITZGERALD OWNER

COFFS COAST A C C O M M O D AT I O N

What motivates you in your role and business? I love providing the means for guests to have a great stay and providing investment returns for owners. Managing properties well and providing the best service to my guests and owners is what I focus on every day. What have you learnt over the past 12 months, and how has your business changed? I have learned to be more dynamic, find innovative ways to provide the highest level of service to our guests and owners, create opportunities to increase occupancy for our owners, and look for creative ways to grow our business. This year has reinforced the importance of evolving and striving to be the best despite the challenges. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success in the accommodation industry means low vacancy rates, customer satisfaction and repeat guests, which we are achieving. I am very proud of my team (Melissa Parisi and Bianca Wood) and our recognition when we were named dual winner of the 2021 Coffs Coast Business Awards in the Accommodation category. All of these things make me think “Yes, we are doing it right”! What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? Dream big and use language like “I will” not “I can’t”. And when you see Champagne on sale, stock up; you’ll need it!

(02) 5606 3767 admin@coffscoastaccommodation.com.au

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COLLEEN

LONGSTAFF CAPTURE LIFE OWNER/CEO

ell us about your business. I’m an international Business, Mindset & Empowerment Coach, working with women who have hit a glass ceiling, feel unfulfilled but making the money, held back by their past or lost in their subconscious. After intensive coaching, women have exponentially grown their business and improved their lifestyle. This work also integrates my intuitive and spiritual gifts. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? No. There is an expectation to a goal NEEDING to be reached in a calendar year. I have INTENTIONS I set. Those intentions include things that are life, financial and family related. There’s no urge to tick them off and move to the next one. As a result, I reach levels in my business that I never envisaged happening at the speed they are. I love that I make my own rules and run a successful business without a due date.

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Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success is perception. It’s a by-product of what we do. For me, it’s an abundance of wealth in my life. Family, financial freedom and business. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? FALSE - hustle and suffer exhaustion, to have what you desire. Work hard yes, but not to a level that you miss your life and what matters most. Humans invented the 38 hour week, we can also change it. Hire a mentor/coach who is going to challenge you, trigger you, guide you and push you. And trust it. Fear and all. thefitphotographer@outlook.com /capturelife_coach Colleen Longstaff

e KNOW incorporating a level of fitness is absolutely vital to a successful, healthy and happy life. It’s spoken about by industry leaders, high achievers, and competent businesspeople. That “level” of fitness looks different for everyone, and the blessing is that it doesn’t matter about being the fastest or strongest or the lowest in body fat. Moving your body WELL and getting better at those movements – that’s where you feel the magic and that’s what will give you the satisfaction that will impact EVERY area of your life. There’s nothing like a new personal best at your training session to boost the way you conduct business for the next day, the way you handle your busy family life, or the way you interact with your spouse. Personal bests can be found through so many different angles, so attitude plays a major role – and it’s a funny thing, the more you train the more you look for that positive achievement of a personal best. But even without a PB, it’s incredibly satisfying when you go to do something and you find it easier than you used to. I have always had a passion for people and helping them take a step forward towards a better life – and I’m just about the release something that does just that. Power to the people that empower others. Currently loving and highly recommend these audiobooks: Why we sleep – Matthew Walker Sell it like Serhant – Ryan Serhant

TAMZIN REBEL HIBBARD HOMES PROMOTION AND MARKETING PLUS NEW BUSINESS COMING SOON!

Greenlights: Raucous Stories and Outlaw Wisdom from the Academy Award-Winning Actor – Matthew McConaughey And loving this song: I am feminine, I am masculine I am anything I want I can teach you, I can love you If you got it goin’ on ~ Emmy Meli “I am Woman” @__tamzin__ Tamzin Rebel

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RIELLE BERGLUND C O M PA N Y D I R E C T O R

DUSTYCORNS C L E A N I N G P T Y LT D

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ell us about your faced many challenges with growing so business. I started my quickly, we are resourceful and focus on business in 2019 while solutions rather than problems. They’ve trying to decide on a shown me that with the right team, you new career path. I never can overcome any challenge. intended for it to be Do you have a goal this year for more than a time filler project and it yourself personally or in business? just exploded. Within weeks I hired my To maintain and build on our reputation first employee so I guess you could say keeping in line with the core values of it was a happy accident. After realising my company. I hope to expand within its potential, I decided to run with it and the state but really the sky is the limit. now my business has grown to almost And finish my MBA, it’s been tricky a dozen employees servicing from juggling uni and a growing business! Corindi beach all the way to Urunga. Describe for us your definition of We are a multifaceted cleaning service ‘success’ relevant to your industry/ incorporating Domestic, Commercial, role. A happy team and clients and Holiday accommodation and end of consistent sustainable growth. lease/house sale What or who cleaning. We now has been your I am fortunate to offer a range of greatest influence services on top of be surrounded in business and standard internal by so many why? cleaning including pressure cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, carpet and upholstery. What motivates you in your role and business?

inspirational and hard-working people. Seeing people realise their own potential inspires me every day as does making a difference in our clients’ lives.

I have never really fit into a standard box anywhere in my life. I am introverted, I don’t interview well and found my skills were often discounted or overlooked. I wanted to create a space where employees had more input, could be creative and felt able to bring their real selves to work and be valued in their differences. Seeing my team develop in that environment and the awesome feedback we get from our clients as a result is what keeps me motivated. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? My business has doubled in the last 12 months despite the Covid pandemic, through word of mouth alone. The team and I have

I have worked in a few industries, my experiences both positive and negative in the workforce have been the push to create something different that I am proud of. I am fortunate to be surrounded by so many inspirational and hard-working people. Seeing people realise their own potential inspires me every day as does making a difference in our clients’ lives. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? My greatest accomplishment is building my company. Having the courage to create a space where my staff can collaborate with management to make their role work with their strengths and then get to see the direct positive result of their unique input. It drives excellent outcomes for our clients and for our team. We have made a great little family together and I am

immensely proud of them. What local female business leaders do you admire and why? There are so many, I am surrounded by powerful women. Coffs Harbour is lucky to have so many. I have watched them grow from modest home businesses to beautiful shopfronts and I admire every single one of them. Also, my PA Sandy who keeps me in line, truly a difficult job sometimes! If any, what challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your overall career? I found the management styles I have worked under in the past to be counterproductive and outdated. A lot of resistance to change or innovative ideas, and it has been disappointing to see so much potential blocked. Learning to put myself out there and share my ideas has been a steep learning curve for me, but it has also made me conscious of establishing a nurturing environment for my team to give their input to. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? Don’t be afraid to admit something is not working and try something new. In a new business venture you will probably fail a lot and that’s ok! Every failure is a learning experience. Dustycorns Cleaning 0422 094 925 dustycorns.com.au

CAROLINE CAMPBELL F I R S T N AT I O N A L COFFS COAST DIRECTOR/LICENSED SALES AGENT

have worked in the real estate industry for nearly 17 years, starting off as a personal assistant before moving into property sales. To be honest, real estate was never on my list of career choices – I wasn’t even confident selling a raffle ticket, so it was never a consideration to have a job selling an owner’s pride and joy!

team (which is evenly balanced from the male-female point of view!) and their support and valuable opinions are the backbone to our success.

Referrals and repeat business have certainly held me in good stead particularly during the last two Covid-affected years. When strong relationships are cemented, those clients and colleagues are your career-long However, as I’ve discovered and enjoyed pipeline and I very much rely on the motto during those 17 “Look after people like years, real estate you would expect to be is about people, It’s always a looked after”. The last their dreams and privilege to step two years have been their properties. It inside someone’s front tough for many people is a pleasure, and door, inspect the and during this time certainly motivation more than ever clients, property they are so in itself, to meet and current and new, proud of, and be able build relationships have valued a female, to assist with their with sellers and trustworthy approach. decision-making. buyers. To see, and be My definition of part of, the happiness success is not and excitement when measured by runs on the board, but by a ‘deal is done’ never fails to disappoint. It’s kind words and desirable outcomes for my always a privilege to step inside someone’s clients. The cards and testimonials I have front door, inspect the property they are so received, and the resulting friendships that proud of, and be able to assist with their have been formed from business dealings, decision-making. have been, and will continue to be one of I am one of three owners of the First the “joys of the job”. National sales business (the rose between two thorns!) and my weekly goal is to continue to enjoy the job/role and the people I work with and for. We are extremely fortunate with our exceptional

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Picking up the phone, replying promptly to enquiries, talking face-to-face, punctuality, and most importantly, listening... These are the simple words of advice I would give

to any aspiring female business leaders. If you can master these skills you will be a role model for others following your lead. Finding a work/lifestyle balance in such a busy industry has been an ongoing challenge for me in business, and certainly the goal this year is to more effectively manage my time and achieve a better balance. But being a part owner of an exciting and well-established business is certainly my greatest achievement, which brings with it the enjoyment of watching growth and development within the team. Any women who own a business, or aspire to, are testament to how industry is changing and how highly their abilities and expertise are valued in these progressive, but also uncertain, times.

Anyone looking for some professional advice, with a female touch of course, can contact me on ccampbell@fncoffs.com 0402 889 441 or via social media We put you first.

HANNAH

WHITE

A D VA N TA G E P L U S TA X A N D B U S I N E S S SOLUTIONS S E N I O R A C C O U N TA N T

ell us about your business. Advantage Plus Tax is a boutique local accounting firm owned by Sam Lowrey. I am very lucky to have worked closely with Sam for the past 8 years and I’m very excited for what’s to come. We are currently located in the heart of Coffs Harbour but will be moving to a new office soon while expanding the business to include Financial Planning and bringing in new accounting staff members.

them of the amount of the refund they will receive.

What motivates you in your role? When you love your job, the type of work that you do and working with other amazing female staff members, it is easy to be motivated every day. It’s also a great feeling following and being a part of a client’s journey of establishment, growth, and success. 30th June is an accountant’s New Years Eve, it makes me very excited to start a new financial year, to be able to catch up with clients and to meet new ones. It’s always a great feeling seeing how excited they get when you advise

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? When working full time plus having other commitments outside the office, completing a university degree part time has been one of my biggest challenges and accomplishments thus far. The day I received my final exam result, the flood gates opened, and I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. My next goal is to complete my postgraduate studies to earn my Chartered Accountant status by the end of this year.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why? It wasn’t until high school and the most constant thing on your mind was what career path should you take, that I discovered an interest and passion for Business. My father worked in the finance/ banking industry for over 20 years and his work ethic and encouragement is why he is my greatest influence in becoming an accountant.

What local female business leaders do you

admire and why? I admire all female business leaders and owners, but my main admiration would be our very own Denise Kelly. Her dedication to her work, to her clients and to the business is why she’s been one of my biggest mentors since working at APT. I aim to emulate her achievements in business. What, if any, challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your overall career? I am very lucky to not have experienced any challenges as a woman during my career. Even though our employer Sam is male, he has always made us feel like our voices are heard, offered support and respect when needed. Ethical issues concerning women in offices have come a long way and the proof is in the many women locally and nationally that have broken the glass ceiling barrier to achieve their professional goals. But in saying that, there is still more that we can achieve before women are no longer harassed, criticised and discriminated against in the workplace.

Phone 02 6659 8900 web www.advantageplustax.com.au email info@advantageplustax.com.au

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JANE FRANKE L I G H T H O U S E H E A LT H A N D E D U C AT I O N D I R E C T O R & P R I N C I PA L P S Y C H O L O G I S T

ell us about your business. Lighthouse Health and Education is a psychology and literacy education service established 4 years ago to fill the gap in paediatric psychology services on the Coffs Coast. We offer both therapeutic intervention and assessments for autism, cognition, behaviour, mental health and functional development. Since opening in Moonee Beach, our services have expanded to also support the mental health of adults, increasing our team to 7 psychologists, a teacher, therapy assistant and 2 admins, and most recently opening a second practice in Grafton to expand our reach. What motivates you in your role and business? I love every aspect of the business from top down. Clients can come in for their session and find me on the front desk answering the phone, watering the plants or getting the team a coffee. I’m not always in psychologist mode but, ultimately, I’m motivated by making a positive difference to someone’s life. It really is such a privilege to be entrusted with a level of health care of another person. To get invited to do this with so many people daily motivates me to grow the business further. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? Working towards establishing Lighthouse Health and Education as a platform for psychologists to gain their registration and having them remain in our region is a personal goal. As a business, finding new ways we can give back to the community. We sponsor our local football club, wear Selfawear brand Be Kind shirts, are Creative Kids Program providers, are committed to the Healthy Minds program and we are about to be stockists for Escabags to assist those fleeing domestic violence. It really is about doing what we can, where we can, as a small business. Shop BG09 Moonee Market, Moonee Beach, NSW 2450 / 163 Pound St, Grafton, NSW 2460 02 6656 4765 / 02 6642 4108 www.lighthousehealthandeducation.com.au admin@lighthousehealthandedcuation.com.au fb.com/lighthousehealthandeducation

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COFFS LAW CO

KRYSTIE LARSEN

KYMBERLEI GOODACRE

EMMA ESSEX

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N T R A I N E E

P R I N C I PA L S O L I C I T O R

L AW G R A D UAT E

ell us about your business. What have you learnt since Covid and Coffs Law Co offers a range how has your business changed? Change of different legal services across is inevitable: Do not be afraid: Be informed. your lifestyle including: We have kept on top of the ever-changing • Individual legal advice Covid landscape. for you in family law matters We mostly engage by telephone or to achieve results in parenting and property teleconference now. We miss the personal arguments. interaction, and we hope to get back to • Supporting parents of that, but for all our children in the Children’s safety in this pandemic We provide legal Court of NSW, helping we have taken steps advice individual you to understand what is to support our clients’ to your circumstances happening and what you and staff health. Whilst and needs. We also are can do. we will keep the able to assist you • Helping you with legal option for telephone with Legal Aid NSW advice to buy your first home and teleconference funding if you are and to understand your loan engagement because before you sign. of the positive feedback eligible. Talk to us • Working in partnership our clients have given us, about this so we can with you to sell your home I have learned nothing help you. and purchase your next can replace in-person property. connection. • Assisting you with end-of-life planning Do you have a goal this year for yourself to ensure your wishes are formalised into the personally or in business? One of Coffs Law documents you need for financial, health and Co’s major goals this year is investing in our welfare decisions, as well as your Will for when people to provide great service to our clients. you do depart. We have our new Law Graduate, Emma We provide legal advice individual to your Essex, shortly to be admitted as a solicitor. circumstances and needs. We also are able to We are excited to contribute to her legal assist you with Legal Aid NSW funding if you are journey (she has been working in legal firms eligible. Talk to us about this so we can help you. for the past 4 years, focused on conveyancing

and legal research). We will be providing her with opportunities to extend her skill set in advocacy and advice, particularly in the family law jurisdiction. We also have our new Administration Trainee, Krystie Larsen. We are keen to support Krystie in her TAFE studies in administration, and love how she is taking to her new role in an Office environment – a complete career change for Krystie. Coffs Law Co is really proud to be actively supporting women in pursing their career aspirations. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? Women are strong: fierce: creative: supportive. Be brave! Take the risk of investing in yourself. Reach out to other businesswomen. We want to see you succeed! Get professional advice to help you on your journey. You will never know if you do not try!

www.coffslawco.com.au 02 5606 1225 lawclerk@coffslawco.com.au Coffslawco COFFS COAST

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REGISTERED NURSE AND OWNER

BARBARA WENMAN L A F L E U R D ’A LY S E COSMETIC LASER AND MEDISPA

ell us about your business. La Fleur D’Alyse cosmetic laser and medispa is Coffs Harbour’s Premier cosmetic and laser clinic and was established in 2011 by myself and my husband Dr John Wenman, having formerly been Coffs Harbour Collagen and laser clinic which was originally established in 1996. In the early days we just used to fill wrinkles which was a slow and tedious job with little effect, now an experienced practitioner reads the whole face and places the product to lift and volumise the face . A skilled practitioner can virtually do a non-surgical facelift using botulinum toxin strategically placed. As a leader in non-invasive cosmetic procedures we take pride in providing a friendly and safe environment and results. We offer the latest in non-surgical enhancement procedures and skin rejuvenation treatments from dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, cosmetic injectables, skin needling, skin peels and a full range of non-surgical antiaging treatments, laser and and the full face and neck thread lift. My objective is to enhance natural beauty, I hate to see people walking around with a puffy face and trout pout lips . Cosmetic treatments should enhance our natural beauty not turn us into a caricature of our natural self.

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What motivates you in your role and business? I’m passionate about my role as a cosmetic nurse injector and aesthetician, I love to look at a face and plan how I can fix a problem and enhance natural beauty to restore a youthful appearance and create results and make my clients happy. What have you learnt over the last 12 months? We need to have more than one string to our bow and be able to evolve and adapt. Having downsized during Covid we eliminated a lot of spa and massage treatments as we are now concentrating on non-surgical cosmetic enhancement and skin treatments. Dermal fillers can do more than remove wrinkles and plump cheeks, you can reshape your nose with a liquid rhinoplasty, plump your lips and flip the top lip to give a sexier fuller Cupids bow and lift your jawline with the Nefertiti lift to remove that flabby chook neck look. We are concentrating more on rejuvenation using the dynamic lift non-surgical face lift and the oxygen therapy treatments, both are excellent non-invasive and affordable treatments for tightening the facial muscles and replenishing and brightening the skin. Our 24 carat gold facial is second to none as an instant lift and you can purchase the product to use at home. We also offer an amazing range of antiaging skin care products.

Describe for us your definition of success relevant to industry role. Success in our industry is a safe, caring atmosphere with great results and happy clients. It’s important to keep up to date with new treatments and continually attend cosmetic conferences and training to maintain skills and learn new ones. The cosmetic companies were very supportive during lockdown and offered weekly zoom conferences and lectures by leading practitioners in the industry. Knowledge, an eye for detail, good results and a caring attitude equal success. What or who has been you greatest influence in business and why? I have a thirst for knowledge and learning new skills and a mission to enhance people’s natural beauty and make them happy. I love Coco Chanel’s philosophy on life, “if you don’t like your life change it“! This can be applied to cosmetic medicine, if you don’t like your wrinkle change it! As Madame Chanel said “you can be gorgeous at thirty, charming at forty and irresistible for the rest of your life“. We aim to help you be irresistible!

Lafleurdalyse.com.au 02 6652 8943 lafleurdalyse@bigpond.com

SARAH STOKES

BISHOP DRUITT

COLLEGE

DIRECTOR OF LEARNING AND TEACHING P R I M A R Y, P R I M A R Y T E A C H E R

hat motivates you in your role and business? My role is challenging, complicated, interesting and exciting, however my real motivation comes from the daily interactions I have working with teachers and students. Learning who people really are, what engages and energises them, collaborating with others and implementing new innovative approaches in education is what I love. Describe for us your definition of ’success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success in my role is building a learning community based on trust and respect. Where diversity of ideas and fresh perspectives are encouraged and everyone feels that they are valued and part of our learning community. It is about pushing the envelope in education and providing a range of opportunities and experiences for kids, empowering them with the tools to build a better world. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? Yes, my goal is to

focus on my own wellbeing. Sometimes in business and education your focus is on others or work and taking care of yourself is last. I have challenged myself to be more productive focusing on my physical, mental and emotional welfare and have joined with my work team an 8 week challenge through Greenx7. This app focuses on wellbeing and resilience for teams and organisations to thrive. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? My greatest professional accomplishment is being able to do what I love as work. I’m pretty lucky to not only work with brilliant educators that all have students at the forefront of their teaching but also be able to inspire and empower students to be the best version of themselves as a teacher. What is one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? Be courageous, honest, show integrity and have a clear focus of what you want to achieve.

SUE O’CONNOR

D I R E C T O R O F S T U D E N T W E L L B E I N G K- 1 2

ell us about your business. Bishop Druitt College is an Independent Anglican K-12 school located in the Boambee Valley. My core business is the Wellbeing of our students and staff. What motivates you in your role and business? Our students motivate me. Young people have so many challenges and obstacles to overcome and their strength and character to face these gives me hope and encouragement. Sometimes our young people need a little more help and that is where our wellbeing team steps in. Striving for positive wellbeing and mental health in our students is our goal. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Creating a Wellbeing HUB in the heart of the school. This has been a 2 year project and my main goal was to help promote positive wellbeing and mental health within our students. It is a place for our young people to feel safe and supported. It contains 2 well-resourced group counselling rooms, a sensory calming space

and a large open room we called ‘The Oasis’ for groups to meet. Groups such as our Goori Group, Human Rights Group, Breakfast Club, Round Square, LGBTQI and wellbeing team meetings. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? My goal over the next 12-18 months, working with the Association of Independent Schools and their ‘Compass’ initiative, is to validate and consolidate our evidenced based, whole school, proactive wellbeing approaches. This will ensure we continue to foster safe, supportive and respectful environments so that wellbeing outcomes are enhanced for our students now and in the future. What local female business leaders do you admire and why? Lily Isobella, the 2020 Coffs Coast Woman of the Year. I love her passion. Amongst other things she is brave and not afraid to have tough conversations with parents and students about sex, love and self esteem.

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SILK

LASER CLINICS COFFS HARBOUR

hat motivates you in your role and business? Client results! At the end of the day, we wouldn’t have a business if we weren’t offering services and products that made a positive impact on our clients. Our team take this very seriously and we have invested in diagnostic tools to help assess clients at first appointment. There is no better feeling than comparing the results of our treatments vs the original photos taken. While the business trades as SILK Laser Clinic, the company is called Skin Confidence Pty Ltd. Results motivate the team and are at the centre of our efforts. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? The last 12 months saw the pandemic move into its second year as the number 1 nuisance for our clinic. As cases eventually moved into the regions and into our clinic, we have to remain adaptive and open-minded to new ways of working with clients and as a team. I am proud of the way the team stepped up to meet the many and varied challenges that come with serving 8,000+ clients with diverse opinions on the virus, the response and the protocols. As a team, we have learnt to remain open minded to people’s views and respect that each person has a unique story that shapes their attitudes towards issues like vaccinations, mask-wearing and disruptions to routine. It has been a trying

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time for the team in respecting the views of clients while adhering to protocols. We have learnt to be compassionate and kind while staying pragmatic and positive for the future. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? Following a highly disrupted year owing to Covid and a clinic extension/renovation, we have the goal of realising the potential of the new expanded clinic and range of services. This includes offering clients faster access to appointments and a broader range of treatments (e.g. Coolsculpting). This is also about providing team members with a nice space to enjoy breaks and lunch time. We have carefully scaled the footprint, service offering and team to meet the growing demands of the Coffs Coast, 2022 is about utilising the resources we now have to deliver a bigger and better result from the investment. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success is multi-faceted across clients, team and business (in that order). We have deliberately invested heavily in technology and skilled team members to deliver proven results for clients across skin, hair removal, cosmetic injectables and fat reduction. Happy clients create a positive vibe in the clinic which makes for a nice environment for the team to identify issues and perform treatments that ultimately work and provide job satisfaction. The natural consequence of happy clients and fulfilled team

members is a growing business. The ultimate success is to pair the 3 areas at work with a happy personal life. This is not always possible but part of the sacrifice when you are dedicated to your clients, team and business.

SILKLaser.com coffsharbour@silklaser.com.au 6651 1592 @skinfluencer_coffsharbour @silk_laser_clinics We help you be your best you, by being our best us…

BARBARA HAIGH OWNER

LISA

FLYNN SHINE LAWYERS CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER

ell us about your business

motto which read: “Tough case? We’re tougher,” that strength through struggle has really been illuminated throughout the pandemic. This year taught me the importance of being a helper, to encourage our firm to be the people providing calm amidst chaos, to give hope for resolutions when situations seem hopeless.

This year is Shine’s 46th year in business. In the last financial year alone, we’ve resolved more than 7000 client matters. Our business continues to succeed because it is full of humble, hungry and smart lawyers who genuinely want to do good for the people Describe for us your definition of we serve. The beauty of working in plaintiff ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. litigation is the opportunity At Shine, success to to help people, to listen us is about customer I know the value to people, to validate satisfaction. We’re in a their stories and to drive of the work we service-based industry solutions that bring people do in bringing positive and what we deliver closure and remedies change to the lives to our clients provides for the wrongs they’ve of the people we rewards for them and experienced. represent. us, in that when we are What motivates you in able to achieve justice, your role and business? we give survivors of wrongdoing a chance to move forward with I’m motivated by our clients and I’m inspired their lives. by their bravery. I know the value of the work we do in bringing positive change to the lives of the people we represent. Chasing positive outcomes for people gets me out of bed each morning. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? The last twelve months have taught me important lessons on the resilience of our lawyers and agility of our firm. As a business, we grew from strength to strength. We used to have an old Shine

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? I joined Shine as an articled clerk almost 22 years ago and now hold the position of Chief Legal Officer, overseeing all legal teams across the business. I have had many wonderful opportunities at Shine but the contribution we made to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse to ensure victims of abuse were heard and compensated, always stays with me. There is still a long way to

go, and many sectors to address, but seeing that change is possible drives me to do my bit every day. What, if any, challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your overall career? I think it’s important that we learn from both men and women. The struggle I’ve had has been in watching rooms full of men in parliament make decisions on female experiences. That is something I often speak out about and find infuriating. I want to exist in a world where we’re equally represented and where women always have a seat at the table to discuss women’s issues. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? I would tell any aspiring female business leaders to fearlessly take on roles at the top. Women bring compassion, empathy, intelligence, lived experiences, maternal instincts and the best of them show that you can be both soft and strong at the same time.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ lisa-flynn-22950121/ COFFS COAST

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DI LEACH OAS AUSTRALIA MANAGER

elebrating their 20-year birthday this year, the team provide outsourced office services including bookkeeping, accounts payable and receivables, BAS preparation, payroll including HR intermediary, PAYG calculations, lodgments, and superannuation payments for businesses. What motivates you in your role and business? I am motivated by my clients and their successes in business. Knowing that the services we provide makes their lives easier is what gets me out of bed, makes me want to do more and be more for them. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? The last 12 months has taught me to be more agile. The COVID pandemic has caused turbulence for everyone in different ways and businesses are being challenged more than ever. Their needs have changed, sometimes daily, and we’ve needed to react accordingly with that. Additionally, we merged with Moore Australia which has broadened our capabilities and the range of services we can offer clients. Our

association with the Moore network has given us access to their experienced team members on a range of new services like HR/IR, Payroll and Superannuation. Being involved with a larger entity has seen our reach grow outside of Coffs Harbour as we collaborate virtually with the team and clients. Do you have a goal this year? My goal for 2022 is to strengthen our payroll department by having a dedicated team, providing efficient and timely services for our clients. Government legislation is always being updated and changed. We’re building our team of experts to ensure our clients get the trusted and well-informed advice they need. We’ll recruit new team members who are passionate and want to be part of our growth story. On a personal note, I want to be more of an advisor and spend more time with our clients, listen and understand their pain points so that we can find solutions that better suit their needs and goals to build their business. What or who has been your greatest influence in business? My greatest influences have been the professionals I’ve surrounded

myself with, from software providers, accountants and professional services like ICB – they have helped guide me and reach my business goals. What challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your career? The biggest challenge in the finance industry is being taken seriously and treated like a professional who is experienced and here for the long haul. I backed myself and did a lot of networking which was where I developed relationships with others in the industry which grew my connections. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders? Shoot for the stars, always think big and don’t hold yourself back. Start each day as you want to continue and surround yourself with trustworthy professionals you trust and who support you and your goals. oasaustralia.com.au 1800 627 287 reception@oasaustralia.com.au oasaus

BUSINESS BOOKKEEPING - IT’S WHAT WE DO! Our experienced and friendly team provide detailed and compliant bookkeeping, payroll and office administration services to ensure your business thrives, 52 weeks a year! Visit us at our new office located at 4A Moonee Street.

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AU ST R A L I A

1800 627 287 | oasaustralia.com.au | 4A Moonee St, Coffs Harbour |

SAWTELL

ON POINT PHYSIO

S H A R Y N F U LTO N O W N E R

ell us about your business. On Point Physiotherapy was established in 2019 as a new style of physio practice that focuses on Women’s Health but also includes general physiotherapy. Our Women’s Health focus includes pelvic floor assessment and treatment, pregnancy and postnatal assessment and exercise classes, as well as General Physiotherapy classes with a focus on “Core Stability“ using Pilates equipment and exercise techniques. Apart from myself, On Point Physiotherapy now has two amazing physiotherapists – Hayley Wild (nee Reynolds) and Heidi Mortimer (nee Beames). We are all pilates trained and love to help our clients work on their own specific goals. The practice has now branched out to include Men’s Health treatments and programs as well. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? I had been focusing on women’s pelvic floor for the last 10 years, and then last year started to get enquiries about Men’s pelvic floor treatment. As there were not many options for men to seek

help in the area I decided to upskill with a focus on Men’s pelvic floor health after prostatectomy. What motivates you in your role and business? My motivation really is to provide a caring and nurturing environment for our clients. Where they feel that they are listened to, their goals understood, and that an effective program is devised to help them to become strong and empowered. What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? We are located right in the centre of town with easy street parking. We have lots of good information on our website onpointphysiotherapy.com. au, but also post regularly on Instagram and Facebook. If you would like to email us we can be reached at info@onpointphysiotherapy. com.au, or call to make an 6601 7401. appointment on

GOLF CLUB

RACHEL JACOBSON GENERAL MANAGER

ell us about your business. Sawtell Golf Club has been an integral part of the Coffs Harbour community for over 60 years. Our Club offers a meticulously maintained 18-hole golf course for our members and guests. Our Par-Tee Bistro boasts excellent catering packages for any type of function, from special events through to corporate golf days. We pride ourselves on being the friendly club in town and strive to offer a relaxing environment where our patrons can socialise with their family and friends. What motivates you in your role and business? I am definitely someone that loves a challenge. I have always been an ambitious woman and selfmotivated to achieve my goals, no matter how big or small they may be. As General Manager of the club, I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by an amazing team that are not only focused in driving the business forward, but also elevate me to be the best I can be. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/ role. For me, success is defined

by our return patrons, being a part of an engaging working environment, and becoming a profitable business. We have implemented some major changes over the past few years, tied in with a lot of hard work, to put us into the position we are in now. The next 12 months will see further growth and development of the club, which is incredibly exciting. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? “Failure isn’t making the mistake; it’s allowing the mistake to win.” Don’t ever be afraid to make mistakes as it’s all part of the process. Keep learning, keep growing, and be better than what you were yesterday.

admin@sawtellgolf.com.au 02 6653 1006 fb.com/sawtell.golfclub/ sawtellgolfclub.com.au/cms COFFS COAST

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TERRI ANNE RICHARDSON

DIRECTOR & LICENSED PROPERTY MANAGER

AUSLAN INTERPRETER AND SUPPORT C O O R D I NAT O R

CHRISTINE RENGGER

T’D OFF INTERPRETING AND SUPPORT

ell us about your business. Auslan Interpreter – I provide Auslan/English Interpreting Support Coordination for NDIS participants.

T M P R E N TA L S as I just see myself as someone who just wants to see others achieve their own greatness. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. Success in my role is when everyone “gets it”, communication is so powerful so when a deaf client is allowed to express what they need is amazing.

What motivates you in your role and business? Seeing people “get it” when Interpreting, seeing both recipients have total access to the communication is exhilarating. What or who has been your When providing greatest Support influence in I have been Coordination, business and able to it is fighting why? My family to help others really personalise are my greatest achieve. my work to influence, my

suit the need of What have you husband runs his learnt over the own business, each one of the past 12 months my children are wonderful people and how has hardworking I work with. your business ethical people changed? I have and they make gone out on my own in the past me want to be better at what I do. 12 months, that was a huge step. What would you say is This has allowed me to expand into your greatest professional better 1:1 access for my clients. I accomplishment to date? have been able to really personalise Receiving my NAATI qualification my work to suit the need of each and working as an Interpreter. one of the wonderful people I Facilitating the communication work with. between people is beyond Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? Personally, to grow and allow myself more acceptance of me and how I see the world. Professionally, that is hard for me 86 COFFS COAST

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rewarding. fb.com/tdoffpromotions tdoffinterpreting@gmail.com 0411 168 373 terri.anne.richardson

ell us about to keep moving forward with the your business. challenges we face and just get up TMPRentals was each day and “get on with it”. created with the sole Describe for us your definition focus of providing of ‘success’ relevant to your our landlord clients with focus, industry/role. Success means direction and different things expertise for different I feel our goal around the people. My this year is management of success and their investment to keep moving the success property. forward with the of my team is challenges we face What ensuring we do and just get up each the right thing motivates you in your role day and “get on for our clients and business? with it”. and customers Genuine to ensure their assistance to a rental experience is a pleasant landlord and tenant to ensure a one with factual information fantastic rental experience. provided and a clear and honest What have you learnt over communication channel that is the past 12 months and how always open. has your business changed? What local female business WOW, I don’t think there is a leaders do you admire and business owner on the planet why? My team, Joanne and that wants to recall the last two Melissa. Always willing to go years of challenges and changes. above and beyond even when the It has been a difficult and complex client and customer don’t know it. journey but, on reflection, a challenge that has been met and diversification created to ensure the job continues to get done. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? Fatigue is a huge issue for everyone, in any profession at present. I feel our goal this year is

christine@tmprentals.com.au 6651 2944 www.tmprentals.com.au @TMPCoffs

MEL

KEELEY

OWNER / KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER

EVEZA NORTH COAST

THIRD EYE 2452 SELENA BRENNAN DIRECTOR/OWNER

ell us about your You can chat uninterrupted business. without changing hands. Clients It is a cafe at the do become family, I now even have front and hair studio about 8 families from Inverell who at the back right come to me because they love my in the heart of Sawtell in First service. Avenue. Come and chat to me Do you have a goal this year about leasing a space too if you for yourself personally or in are a hair stylist or want to display business? art. It’s a space that is evolving all Yes to get my dream team the time. together – it is all falling into place What motivates you in your now and I cant wait to see this role and business? all happen – getting a dynamite People and connecting with team that are all working together people everyday within this and hearing business but as Clients do their stories become family. a collective all and hearing helping each It’s all about getting how they are other over the your dream team achieving their try line. over the try line. own goals, rising What have up and getting you learnt over everything they want in their lives. these last 12 months and how What is your background? has the business changed? I am 28 years this year in I’ve got to know my whole hairdressing and I’ve managed big worth and this has changed the salons in this area and also large whole game and I’ve learnt what teams. I’ve just branched out on others can do with the right my own which has been a big goal guidance and motivation. of mine as I feel it is important to offer personalised service like being able to work with a client right through from the colour, Salon/cafe washing at the basin and cut and 0402 436 254 blowdry and not having 2 to 4 selena@thirdeye2452.com.au others all doing that process.

ell us about your Describe for us your definition business. of ‘success’ relevant to your We are industry/role. predominantly When I think of success in a professional my business, I think of what my hygiene company that supplies desired aims are, so growing cleaning and hygiene products the business to generate more and equipment to our local revenue is generic and a given. community. But I want to do What more, make a We are just motivates you change in a life – in your role that’s why I work putting the and business? with and align finishing touches Mum! We lost myself with local on a new product her some time charities to support that we will be ago too early the community taking nationally and her hardthat supports us. – stay tuned. working memory What local motivates and female business influences my role in business leaders do you admire and and to do what I am passionate why? Jessica Peake – a young strong about. What I do now I love and business woman that runs and I try to convey that to the people owns multiple gyms. She has I meet, interact and do business mentored me and given me and with. others opportunities to be the Do you have a goal this year best versions of themselves. for yourself personally or in business? Always – it’s my personality. I need to keep pushing myself out of my comfort zone both personally and professionally. Specifically, we are just putting the finishing touches on a new product that we will be taking nationally – stay tuned. I am also www.evezashop.com excited to showcase some of our mel@eveza.com.au socially responsible programs. fb.com/EvezaNorthCoast COFFS COAST

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NICOLE WATSON

SHALLA THOMAS

OWNER

T H R I V E P I L AT E S COFFS HARBOUR

CEO

EAST COAST ACCESSIBILITY EXPERTS

ell us about your business. Community Service, a not for profit, a building company with heart and soul. We modify, we retrofit, we provide safe and accessible spaces for our elders and people with disabilities. We consult, we design, we build the best outcomes for our clients. What motivates you in your role and business? Motivation for me is the awesome team I work with and the beautiful elders and people with disabilities we continue to serve with the best product and outcomes in project management and construction, for their safety in and around the home and in the communities they love. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? We can overcome and effectively work within a pandemic environment, and continue to provide safe service delivery, keeping our clients and participants connected to the place they call home and the community they love. We have listened and observed, maintaining our wellbeing, paramount to continuity and connectivity. We supported, we met, we talked and we resolved to continue to provide the best 88 COFFS COAST

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service and product to our clients and participants. We check in, we RAT, we vaccinate, we prepare for onsite and offsite visits and construction. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? To stay the task across 23 years of life and professional investment in a service and product I know to make a difference in the lives of so many and in so many different ways with positive outcomes. What, if any, challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your overall career? I must say I have followed my passion and continued to work honestly and with a love for what I do, so the challenges have been working as a women in a loaded construction industry and previous work in an accounting industry. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? Follow your passion.

1800 497 001 accessibilityexperts.org.au

ell us about your business. Thrive Pilates is the most amazing movement Studio on the Coffs Coast. We aim to provide a sanctuary for everyone to come and move their bodies in a safe & fun way. Our extraordinary team guide & lead our members through classes whilst supporting them every step of the way.

online classes within 4 hours of closing the Studio doors in 2020 and the energy and support that we had during that time was electric. Even though we were closed and couldn’t physically be together, I felt that period really cemented the relationships we have built with our members – we came back stronger and have built an incredible base of members since.

We are expanding our offerings with professional/personal development coaching, workshops and retreats all in the works for 2022!

Since then, rebranding and moving away from a franchise business model to be completely independent has been an amazing experience.

What motivates you in your role and business? Honestly, I am motivated by the people I spend time with in the Studio – both the staff & the members. Their commitment to showing up, day after day, is amazing!

What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? My favourite advice to give is that if it’s not a ‘YES’ that you feel in your heart and gut, then it’s a no. Trust yourself even if you’re not really

Holding space for people so they can fall in love with movement and more importantly, themselves, is what gets me out of bed to teach those early classes! What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Surviving and thriving during COVID! We were able to pivot really quickly to move to

sure how it will work out.

Thrive Pilates - Coffs Harbour @thrive_movement_mindset studio@thrivepilates.com.au

ADELLE GOULD

DONNA

ALDERMAN

OWNER DIRECTOR

C O N S U LTA N T

SOLAR RUN MID NORTH COAST

HIP DYSPLASIA CLOTHING AUSTRALIA

ell us about your business. My passion at Keiki Folk for the last 6 years has always been to help mums connect with their children through quality handmade clothing. As a new mum I struggled to find quality breathable clothing in generous sizing for my children, so I made it! Turns out, I wasn’t the only one wanting specialised inclusive clothing. 12 months ago I began to explore this passion on a deeper level, after the diagnosis of a friends child with hip dysplasia. They were desperate for brace-friendly inclusive clothing that made them excited to dress their baby. Hip Dysplasia is an abnormality in the hip joint, affecting 1 in 8 babies in the first few months or year of life, often requiring the child to wear a corrective brace. There is little to no choice for beautiful neutral and minimalist clothing in the mainstream market.

in Coffs Harbour! While the love, passion and quality in every piece remains the same, I will now be providing specialised clothing for hip dysplasia children. I look forward to connecting with strong, inspiring mums and going in this new direction. What motivates you in your role and business? Mums!! Women!! The struggles they face and the stories of overcoming those struggles. I love that I can help to make their everyday a little easier. We come together in our online community to laugh and cry, be still and busy, be alone and in a crowd, all at the one time. A little pocket of the internet that provides something practical, pretty and supportive.

Keiki Folk will no longer be trading as you know it. Launching March 1st, Hip Dysplasia Clothing Australia @hipclothingAU Exclusively stocking our own Australian designed and made hip-friendly clothing range with matching accessories, right here

@hipclothingau adelle@hipclothingau.com hipclothingau.com

o you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? Always. I’ve always been a goal setter. I strongly believe there’s always a way! Regardless how tough the journey, we have greatness within and in tough times we need to dig deep and keep going. I’m not referring to the over-revered ‘grind’ (I despise that term) but rather the courage to allow and accept. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? Allow yourself the gift of opportunity, connection, direction, moments, learning beyond what is comfortable and familiar. We are incredible creations. I say SHINE BABY SHINE!! Bring your best, be bold. Find joy. Play. Have fun with life! What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders? Accept. We won’t always find ourselves where we thought we would be, but if we can just accept rather than fall into the ‘why me?’ syndrome – we retain our power to overcome and go again! Give things a go. Give it your best. Encourage others.

What local female business leaders do you admire and why? I really admire the women who are juggling kids, partners, jobs and on top of all that a business venture. Growing up, I had two incredible women who epitomised this attitude – mum and ‘little nan’. Both solo mamas of 9 and 3 respectively – I’m 3rd generation solo mum. I raised 4 sons here on the stunning Coffs Coast solo since my youngest was 2 years old. I hope I can look back on my life and know I also had a positive impact. That’s one of the reasons I’m loving my new career with Solar Run. It’s a local business determined to do the best by each individual client – not just provide a cookie cutter system that’s not going to serve them adequately. Whether you want to help the planet or keep your money rather than give it to electricity retailers – let’s chat!

d.alderman@solarrun.com.au 0491 005 370 SolarRunMidNorthCoast COFFS COAST

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SHARON

MEAGAN FLANNIGAN

JOY GALWAY

HOME LENDING SPECIALIST

BUSINESS + LIFE COACH FOR WOMXN

C O M M O N W E A LT H BANK

SHARON JOY COACHING

ell us about your business. I am a Mobile Lending Specialist with the Commonwealth Bank looking after the NSW Mid North Coast area. I commenced my career in the finance industry at the Commonwealth Bank 18 years ago as a casual teller for the Coffs Coast region when I was 19 years old. Throughout the years I have been fortunate to be appointed in many various roles within the banking sector, from a casual teller, Branch Manager, Business Development Manager through to Commercial Banking/Lending. After being in many different roles I realised that my passion was in residential lending. Being part of the home buying journey with my customers is the reason I come to work each day! The feeling I get from being part of a person’s dream of home/ investment ownership is truly amazing. I am passionate about delivering the best possible service I can to ensure my customers have a clear understanding of 90 COFFS COAST

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the process, timeframes and possible outcomes – to ensure the application process is as seamless as possible. I love nothing more than making the call to advise a customer of their property settlement being completed and being part of their excitement. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Being recognised nationally for “Outstanding Customer Service”. This accomplishment had a big personal impact on my career as a lender. My customers became my advocates with word of mouth. For me this was the best reward I could ever receive, as it was the true reflection of my customers’ experiences with me.

meagan.flannigan@cba.com.au 0460 005 604

ell us about your business. I’m a Business + Life Coach for femmes who want to design a service-based business around their life and family. I coach using a combination of strategy and alchemy helping ‘woo woo women’ who want to start their own coaching business or consult, heal, facilitate circles, create an online course, or share their spiritual gifts with the world. My work is mostly online with clients right around Australia. I use Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) in my coaching to help clients overcome blocks that hold them back from becoming who they desire to be. Some of these blocks include overwhelm, procrastination, low self-esteem, a lack of clarity or motivation, and anxiety. Clients can book a one-off 1.5hr coaching session to help gain clarity and direction or they can work with me on a more regular basis through ongoing one to one coaching or as a member of my SOULiD™ group coaching membership. I also offer group coaching programs that run over a few weeks at a time. What motivates you in your role and business? The impact my work has on not only my clients but the wider community

motivates me greatly. My clients improve the quality of their life by leaving jobs or careers that no longer fulfill them to create businesses that align with their higher calling. In turn they help make the lives of others in their communities better in so many ways through their healing, insight, facilitation, and teachings. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? If you have recently started on a new path or have been dreaming about how you can turn your passion into a business, pursuing the nudges will be of great service to yourself, your family and your community. Not everyone will get it or cheer you on and that’s ok. Align yourself with communities of other like-minded businesswomen who have gone before you and who are walking the same path.

sharonjoycoaching.com @sharonjoycoaching

BRINGING THE POWER OF CONNECTION TO

COFFS COAST BWN

Meet the committee and discover the benefits of BWN

et us know what BWN is about. We know that when women work together we’re a far more impactful voice for female-led businesses and leadership teams on the Coffs Coast. If you’re ready to make new social and business contacts, meet and be inspired by like-minded businesswomen, take advantage of training opportunities and enjoy social events we’d love you to join us. Who’s on the BWN committee? Sharon Galway is our President. She is a Business + Life Coach for femmes who want to design a service-based business around their life and family. She holds a Diploma of NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP) and Strategic Coaching and has a background in educational leadership and marketing. Belinda Brown is our Vice President founder of The Physio Movement, a national healthcare brand that specialises in allied health services. Belinda recently opened a new practice in Woolgoolga and is really excited to give back to the local community and to grow the vision of ‘allowing people to live a longer, pain-free life’. Meagan Flannigan has recently returned to the BWN board and has taken on the role

of our Treasurer. She is a Mobile Lending Specialist at the Commonwealth Bank and helps people all across the Mid North Coast with their lending needs. Kerstin Thode is the principal solicitor at Smart Choice Law, helping clients with their family law matters and their Wills. She believes BWN is a great place to meet like-minded women. Cath Fowler is the founder of The Digital Laneway, a marketing agency helping businesses get found and look good online. Moving to Coffs in 2017, she was happy to find BWN and is passionate about collaboration over competition, and elevating the voices of women in our community. Em Pitomaki can be found at F45 Coffs bright and early every morning. Motivating and inspiring all the different humans that come in each day to live a healthy balanced lifestyle. Lace Browning is a Senior Careers Consultant at Octec Coffs Harbour. In her rewarding role she helps people with disabilities to find and maintain employment. Jade Naidu is the owner of Woolgoolga Performing Arts Studio and NAIDU Theatre Co. She is an experienced artistic director and performer, and brings awareness to anti-bias principles through the arts. Lisa Baxter is the owner of Maggie’s Pet Co.

An immersive pet wellness brand that bridges the gap between conventional and holistic health, to help dogs live a healthier and more stylish life. Iona Clarkson is an Institutional Child Abuse Paralegal at Liberty Justice Group. She is passionate about women’s rights and creating a space where women are heard and feel safe. Needless to say, it’s a talented mix of smart, capable women making a real impact for our local community. How can Coffs Coast women get involved? We’re glad you asked! Sign up for a membership with BWN you’ll get: • 25% discount on event pricing • Free website directory listing • Access to our social media community • Free digital workshops • And much more Membership starts at just $89 per year and we have packages available for corporate teams. Where can we find out more about BWN? bwn.org.au coffscoastbwn coffscoastbwn

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CAROL EVANS

MEL

CROSSLAND

MANAGER/OWNER

MARKETING MANAGER AND DIRECTOR OF C U S T O M E R R E L AT I O N S

COPY CENTRE COFFS

FXBC MID NORTH COAST

ell us about your business. The Copy Centre located at 1/26B Isles Drive has been established in Coffs Harbour for nearly 25 years. I purchased the business nine years ago but have only actively been managing the business for just over 12 months. The business is proud to say it is locally owned, managed and staffed with a production team and an exceptional fully qualified graphic designer. We create a vast range of products and solutions specialising in print, design and promotional products fully customised to your needs, ranging from business products such as business cards, corflutes, pull up banners, outdoor banners and signs to personalised products such as mugs, calendars, jigsaws, wedding invitations, funeral order of services and placemats just to name a few. “We don’t just copy we create.” What is your business goal for this year? My goal for the business is to increase traffic to 92 COFFS COAST

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our revamped website because our site now empowers our customers to be able to customise and create their own designs. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? The piece of advice I would give to someone starting out would be to speak to other business owners in the same industry and get as much information as you can, listen to people’s advice and experiences, don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

6650 1400 manager@copycentres.com. au or copyshop@copycentres. com.au 1/26B Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour 2450 Order online at www.copycentres.com.au

ntroduce yourself and the business. My name is Mel Crossland, and I am the Marketing Manager at FXBC Mid North Coast. At FXBC, we’re all about efficiency. We provide a range of printing solutions encompassing our copiers, printers, software, print and design services, all to support local businesses to be more productive within their workplace.

know about all we can offer them, and just how much of an impact it can have on their business and workflow. How are you involved in the local community? We love to give back to this wonderful community and do so whenever we can. We’ve been able to support a range of organisations such as the Coffs Rugby, Coffs Surf Club, St Vincent de Paul, Coffs Orchestra and the Plastic Collective among others. Plus, we have set a huge goal this year to collect enough bread tags to fund a wheelchair for those in need. That’s 250kg of bread tags!

What motivates you in your role? Most people believe that copiers are all the same in functionality, no matter the brand. However, if used efficiently, a copier can have a significant positive impact within a business. It’s easy to be motivated when we’re offering award winning products, but not only that, we can back up our products with the passionate team who strive to focus on achieving the best outcomes for our clients. It’s also motivating to hear of the amazing results our clients achieve with our products such as improved speed and efficiency, reduced waste, improved security, and enabled reporting to name a few.

1/26B Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour 2450

Your business goal this year? We are launching a brand-new series of copiers and their inbuilt features are unparalleled so we are eager to let local businesses

We love to have a chat to find out how a business is currently doing things to talk about suggestions on how they can be more efficient.

mel@fxbc.com.au 0418 292 411 www.fxbc.com.au

TRUDY JEFFERY

MELISSA

NUNN

OWNER C R E AT I V E DIRECTOR TEACHER

FUNDRAISING MANAGER

PROSPER COFFS HARBOUR

BLiTS DRAMA

industry/role. Success to me is not how much money I make or how many students I get or BLiTS Drama children if I appear on TV/movies (‘that can learn drama would be exciting, knowing I had techniques and a part in their success’)… But activities, improve speech, public being successful in my business is speaking, eisteddfod preparation, seeing students shine on stage. develop confidence and stage Watching their craft with likeexcitement and minded peers in a Being safe environment. nerves before successful Students work an Eisteddfod in my business is towards getting a or End of Year seeing students play on stage. Performance. shine on stage. Being a part Group sessions of my students available for ages developing 5-18 (Mini, Junior self-confidence, creating a & Teen BLiTS). Hopefully a session bond and being able to work shining young adults with a cohesively. Seeing that fear of disability (Empowered BLiTS). speaking in front of people fade Do you have a goal this year or developing group skills or them for yourself personally or take control of their energy or in business? To incorporate grow into strong leaders. If I see Creative Therapy Drama group that, then I am successful. (Empowered) where people living ell us about your business.

with a disability can feel welcome and encouraged to be out of their comfort zone. Show everyone what they can do. Help them improve their quality of life and wellbeing. I want to showcase their abilities, develop relationships and confidence, ‘Let’s hear them Roar’ in group or individual sessions. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your

0417 482 256 trudy@blitsdrama.com.au BLiTS Drama

ell us about your Way’, marking the final project business. Prosper he worked on. This life alerting Coffs Harbour was experience fired my passion for developed to administer wanting to leave a positive impact 3 Charitable Trusts, whose in the work that I do. I know core objective is to support the through Prosper Coffs I will be able protection and to do that. enhancement Do you have a This life of the natural goal this year alerting environment and for yourself experience fired the creative arts personally or my passion for industry. Our two in business? To wanting to leave active Trusts are raise funds for our a positive impact the Coffs Harbour Youth Scholarship in the work that Cultural Trust and Program so we can Environmental I do. continue providing Trust. Over the opportunities for last 2 years the talented students in the arts. Cultural Trust Youth Scholarship We are also raising funds Program supported 45 aspiring to construct a Children’s artists to attend specialist Environmental Education Garden at workshops and courses. The the North Coast Regional Botanic Environmental Trust delivered Gardens, which will provide important projects, including a a dedicated space to deliver Seabin at the Coffs Marina that environmental workshops for works 24/7 to collect debris. Our school students. latest report showed that 17,445 items of plastic were collected in one year, with microplastics the most prevalent. What motivates you in your role and business? Legacy. I started working for charities in 2014 after the tragic loss of my older brother. As a Civil Engineer he had a street named in his honor called the ‘Matthew Bell

admin@prospercoffs.org.au prospercoffs.org.au COFFS COAST

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MEL SILVESTER

KAREN LEWIS

BUSINESS OWNER/ CLINICAL EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

LICENSED CO N V EYA NC E R

LEWIS + CRANE

MAXIMUM POTENTIAL FITNESS

ell us about your business. Maximum Potential Fitness is an exercise physiology business that operates out of the Coffs Harbour PCYC gym. I have the privilege of working with a range of clientele, from Defence Force veterans, individuals with chronic health conditions and musculoskeletal injuries, those with a range of disabilities, through to healthy people wanting to improve their health, fitness, and sporting performance. Exercise physiology is all about using exercise prescription to help people manage their health conditions, overcome injuries, and improve their overall health and wellbeing. What motivates you in your role and business? As the founder of Maximum Potential Fitness, I am driven by the strong desire to help people get the most out of life. 15 years ago I had an exercise physiologist who helped me get strong and work through a back injury. This planted the seed for what is now not only my business but my passion. Do you have a goal this year for yourself personally or in business? The coming 12 months 94 COFFS COAST

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ell us about your business.

will be about continuing to deliver a premium service and grow the business further with the view to taking on additional staff. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/role. “Success” for me is all about my clients. It is incredibly rewarding to see my clients make progress towards their goals, to move better, sleep better, experience less pain, get stronger, and improve the quality of their life. Success is all about the people and the progress. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? If there is something you are passionate about, something you believe you can do, don’t wait for the “perfect time”, there will always be reasons not to do it. Take a leap of faith and make it happen.

Lewis + Crane is a specialist conveyancing business offering efficient and stress-free personalised service on the Coffs Coast and beyond. Under the wing of long-time local I am Solicitor Paul passionate Crane, I obtained Describe for us about what we my conveyancing your definition licence and am of ‘success’ do; all matters continuing my relevant to your are handled with studies in Law, at industry/role. the utmost care, Southern Cross I love referrals. integrity, and University. We Success to me is professionalism. opened as shared a referral from a offices in midsatisfied client. 2021, in suburban Coffs Harbour. My goal is to provide the highest I am passionate about what we level of service so that clients do; all matters are handled with feel confident in recommending the utmost care, integrity, and us to their family, friends and professionalism. It took a leap colleagues. Building relationships of faith to start out ‘on my own’ based on trust and continuity of in business and I am thrilled I service is a huge part of this. took that path, so well-trodden by Coffs Coast businesswomen before me. What motivates you in your role and business?

maximumpotentialfitness.com.au maximumpotentialfitness maximum_potential_fitness

I am tenacious, loyal and thorough, so I can push a hard bargain for contractual conditions to be modified so MY client gets the advantage. As a country girl (I actually went to school locally) I always place my faith in the power of warm and open relationships, and I still practice old fashioned respect.

I love my job. I strive to provide the best possible customer service to our clients whilst educating and guiding them through the selling or purchasing process.

59 Beryl Street, Coffs Harbour, 02 6653 7620 or 0428 954 772 lewisandcraneconveyancing conveyancing@lewisandcrane. com.au

SARAH BROWN

W O M E N ’ S H E A LT H PHYSIOTHERAPIST

MID NORTH COAST PHYSIOTHERAPY

our Health is Your Greatest Wealth – Isn’t It Time You Invested? Working with women to improve their health and quality of life is a passion for Sarah Brown, who is a physiotherapist working in women’s pelvic health at Mid North Coast Physiotherapy Clinic. We caught up with Sarah to find out how she’s having a hugely positive impact on the health of women on the Coffs Coast. Tell us about your role. I’ve always been passionate about women’s health and so as soon as I graduated from university, I began furthering my clinical knowledge specifically in women’s health physio over the following three years. As a physio now working in women’s pelvic health, I help women across the lifespan address issues like pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence. Helping expecting and new mums is also part of my scope which is such an exciting journey to be a part of. Why is women’s health an important area of physiotherapy? Women lead busy and full lives! From family roles, to social networks, to careers – there’s always a lot on our plate. We’ve all been guilty of letting our own health and wellbeing slide down the list of priorities in favour of other demands. Pelvic health concerns have their own air of taboo, and unfortunately sometimes shame, around them

and this pushes them down the list further. can help manage symptoms of pelvic floor Physiotherapists are focused on delivering dysfunction, pelvic girdle and low back treatment that improves your quality of pain. We also have further knowledge on life. The symptoms associated with female exercise prescription during pregnancy and pelvic health conditions can hugely impact in postnatal recovery to help women achieve confidence and your ability to live life to the their goals while they transition to being a fullest! As a physio working specifically in new mum. women’s health, I’m all about giving women What’s your goal for 2022? strategies that are simple, easy to add into an My goal this year is to really spread the already packed schedule word about pelvic and that can have an health physiotherapy!! enormous impact on A lot of women are A lot of women improving their lives. surprised to learn are surprised What does a women’s about the skillset we to learn about the health physio treat? have to help them on skillset we have to Women’s health their journeys and how help them on their physios are trained simple and effective our journeys and how especially for managing treatment strategies can conditions that are be! The more women simple and effective unique to a female are aware of what help our treatment population and require is available, and also strategies can be! a targeted treatment how common a lot of approach. This includes pelvic health concerns urinary incontinence, are, the less taboo there pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic pain as a will be and the more comfortable women result of conditions such as endometriosis or will feel seeking help. That’s the goal – break down those barriers and help women lead adenomyosis. healthy and fulfilling lives! We have an appreciation for how exercise Thanks Sarah. can be used to benefit women across the life stages from youth, to pregnancy and through to menopause, with special considerations for conditions like endometriosis and osteoporosis. Through pregnancy and in the postnatal stage women’s health physios COFFS COAST

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KRISTI

JAIME COWLING

ROTHWELL

DIRECTOR

Fa m i ly L aw Solicitor

AARON COWLING ELECTRICAL

FISHBURN WAT S O N O’BRIEN

ell us about your I love that I get to do it with my business. We best friend. established Aaron Do you have a goal this year Cowling Electrical back for yourself personally or in 2013. For years my husband did in business? Personally, I am FIFO work, it was hard as a young a proud mother of 4 gorgeous family to be apart constantly, and children, I work hard to provide when our youngest was born in 2018 we them with a made the healthy life, I am a proud decision to to teach them mother of 4 stop working respect for all gorgeous children, I away from walks of people work hard to provide home. It took and to show love them with a healthy a year of and compassion life, to teach them working hard and feeling like we didn’t have anything to show for what we were doing.

respect for all walks of people and to show love and compassion wherever they are.

are. This year at Aaron Cowling Electrical I plan

I wanted to get back into the workforce to help Aaron provide financially for our family. People said I was crazy, 4 kids, working with a husband with a full-on calendar. Someone said “Jaime, why don’t you throw yourself into your business?” I realised that’s exactly what I should do. I slowly took over, made and received all the phone calls, did the books, invoicing and anything else I could do to help my husband and I gain success. Looking at it now, I am so proud of myself, I love what I do, 96 COFFS COAST

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on growing, we are putting on another apprentice as our current apprentice is almost fully qualified. This will give more time and flexibility to take on more workload and new clients.

aaroncowlingelectrical.com.au 0407 075 639

ell us about your business. I lead the Family Law Team at Fishburn Watson O’Brien, which is one of the region’s longest standing and most trusted law firms. It has 9 full time lawyers with in excess of 160 years’ experience and consists of 4 Accredited Specialists across key fields. It’s a warm, passionate firm with a caseload that spans from startup companies on green energy projects through to commercial transactions, property, estates, and parenting matters. Describe for us your definition of ‘success’ relevant to your industry/ role. Success for me is about my client feeling safe in that they have been heard and understood and that I have achieved the outcome they hope for. Individuals within this sphere are invariably coping with a range of emotionally charged circumstances; they are frequently hurt, angry and confused about the loss of dreams and they often fear for the future. There is nothing more satisfying than alleviating some of these emotions and

providing clients with the knowledge and confidence that this is a new beginning. What motivates you in your role and business? Family Law can be challenging, but I find an enormous amount of satisfaction supporting my clients to achieve the best possible result. It’s rewarding to walk alongside clients and watch them re-establish a future, creating new aspirations beyond what they imagined they could achieve. As well as leading Fishburn Watson O’Brien’s Family Law Team, I am a passionate motorcycle enthusiast. I love the adrenaline seeking fun of the sport. It creates a healthy balance that allows me to bring a welcoming and clear energy to my work.

krothwell@fwolaw.com 02 6650 7028

ELK

AMY BARRETT

ON 38 TA M A R A MCWILLIAM & BREE CASTLE

C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

BUSINESS OWNERS, C R E AT O R S + MANAGERS

bout our business: We started in business 18 years ago, when we purchased a run down commercial property in Macksville the three of us Tamara, Bree and Leigh (our mum, who has only recently retired) renovated the property and started a video shop and café. Throughout the years it has been important to diversify our business in order to stay in business in a small town. As the video shop started changing with the era of downloads coming in, we quickly reassessed our business plan and branched into a hair salon with the café, as we are all hairdressers by trade. As time passed and the video shop came almost to a ‘standstill’ we made another diversity move and created what our business is now, a Tapas bar and café with a patisserie, known as Elk on 38 that also caters for private functions. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Surviving in business in a small town for 18 years and still going strong even with Covid hitting hospitality as hard as it did.

RAW BAR BY @CHOCDAISY

We have been able to create a venue that reflects the trends of the big cities, and have been able to give a unique experience to our patrons, from live music weekends, to theme nights, bringing Tapas eating to the valley, and of course a venue for special occasions, from weddings, birthday parties, baby showers and hens’ nights. Challenges faced as women in business: When we started almost 20 years ago, it was still a heavily male dominated environment. We have coped with our fair share of challenges, but we have held our own by standing strong, we had fabulous business plans and we work hard as a united front. We found being three individual women (two sisters and mum) we all brought different skills to the table in dealing with challenging situations that may have arisen in business over the years.

Elk on 38 – Macksville

ell us about your business.

Raw Bar had been in the pipeline for many years prior to opening our physical store. Having spent most of my career in the retail, hospitality and design sector, coupled with the completion of my nutrition degree, this left me with a thirst to educate others on healthy living and eating habits. I really enjoy connecting with people through food, which of course needs to be beautiful! Everything at Raw Bar has been created by myself and my husband using whole foods that leave you feeling nourished and happy.

What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? Don’t get too comfortable, keep reinventing yourself so you grow and always welcome change! You never know, maybe it’s the best thing for your customers, yourself and your business. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Opening Raw Bar 3 years ago is definitely my greatest professional accomplishment! Meeting so many beautiful people and setting the benchmark for exceptional quality products.

What motivates you in your role and business? I guess the fact that I’ve created my dream job is pretty rad! I love so much about it, especially creating new desserts and healthy lunches that taste so good that people have to come back and tell me it’s that good. I’d have to say one of the most rewarding things is to see children’s faces light up when they are told they can eat anything!! We have so many options for many dietary needs.

Shop 6, 108-118 Harbour Dr (Gordon St entry) Coffs Retail Centre 0408 009 516 @chocdaisy COFFS COAST

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CHRISTINE

CLARKE RAINE & HORNE COFFS HARBOUR P R I N C I PA L / L I C E N S E E

hat motivates you in your role and business? I started in business in 1990 and was blessed to find a profession that I enjoy as much today as I did all those years ago. You know the old saying “find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life!” My passion is spending time with people who are buying or selling their home. As their Agent, it’s a privilege to be part of their life story, even in a small way. What have you learnt over the past 12 months and how has your business changed? Like most businesses, Covid required many changes to our day-to-day operation. Real Estate is a people business, primarily conducted “face to face” when meeting

My passion is spending time with people who are buying or selling their home. As their Agent, it’s a privilege to be part of their life story, even in a small way.

with homeowners, and buyers at property inspections. It has been well documented that since 2020, in spite of Covid, the property market has experienced a sharp increase in activity, necessitating a re-think to the way we conducted business. “Open House” inspections were replaced by one-on-one private viewings, and sanitiser, masks and QR codes became the norm. Upskilling our technology department was at the forefront of change, with Zoom meetings, videos, and Facetime in part replacing personal inspections. We quickly learnt that things can change overnight – think border closures, lockdowns and contact tracing – and flexibility and being able to quickly adapt to change became

part of our everyday operation. If any, what challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your overall career? Interestingly, for the most part, I think being female has been advantageous. In the early part of my career there were very few women in Real Estate, and it took a while, for men particularly, to accept a female in what was seen as a male occupation. However, over time, clients came to appreciate the female perspective, and skill set we bring to the Industry. christine.clarke@coffs.rh.com.au send me a text, or better still, give me a call on 0408 655 688

Christine Clarke Licensed Real Estate Agent & Auctioneer Principal of Raine & Horne Coffs Harbour 1/27 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour. 2450 Phone: 0408 655 688 Email: christine.clarke@coffs.rh.com.au

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CARMEL LOGUE

CATH

FOWLER

CARMEL KESTLES MAKEUP ARTIST / HARLOW & CO

T H E D I G I TA L L A N E WAY

OWNER

ell us about your business.

I run a digital marketing agency where I focus on building great and functional websites, writing compelling copy and helping businesses to get found on Google. I believe the best finds are found in unassuming places tucked away in a beautiful laneway. In Paris, a concierge directs me to the best restaurant. In Barcelona, the tastiest tapas are down a side street. Here in Coffs, Dark Arts Cafe in Cox Lane is there for my morning coffee. It’s this feeling that inspired my business name - The Digital Laneway. I’m best known for my search engine optimisation skills. Traditionally, websites can focus on the design elements, but my motto is ‘design attracts, copy sells’. With over 20 years experience, I’m all about ensuring your website becomes your hardest working employee 24/7. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? It was an honour to win the

Professional Services category at the Coffs Coast Business Awards last year. That was quite a shock for me to win. But it was nice to back up my win in 2019 for the Startup Superstar category. But my best accomplishment is demonstrating what a good empathetic, modern leader looks like. I believe strongly in life long learning to make me a better leader and mentor, not just my business but my community too. What one piece of advice would you give any aspiring female business leaders reading this? Be authentically yourself and don’t be afraid to use your voice to share what is important to you. I believe that helps to attract the right kind of people that you’re going to enjoy working with.

thedigitallaneway.com.au /thedigitallaneway /fowlercatherine

ow has the last couple of years been for you as a business owner? Like many other industries the wedding industry has been affected in a massive way. The restrictions have been devastating for our newlyweds, with some saying they have had to postpone their special day multiple times. The uncertainty has been crippling for the venues, celebrants, entertainers, caterers, florists and anyone involved in the many moving parts of a wedding. I’m just grateful for my amazing supportive staff and our clients that found a way to support us at that time. What do you enjoy most about the beauty industry? I love making people feel good. Beauty is people-led. So it follows that in your journey, you come across many other passionate beauty therapists/ MUA/hair stylists and enthusiasts, who will inspire and challenge you on your way. The beauty community can be enormously helpful in achieving your goals and expanding your knowledge. The beauty community will bring new and wonderful ideas, beliefs, and people into your world. It’s flamboyant, inclusive, and creative.

What changes have you seen in the industry over the years? Our industry is forever changing and evolving. I think consumers are getting more savvy, we are focusing more on the health of our skin, face, body. No longer buying from big brands with big campaigns. We are influenced by social media. Small, independent brands are popping up. Which means we are most likely supporting small businesses. Instagram has introduced us to international brands which are now more accessible. What are some of your dreams for yourself and for your business moving forward into 2022 and beyond? Right now, my focus is to keep working on myself as a leader, manager and owner. Just to keep striving to be the best version of myself. Carmel Kestles Makeup Artist.

hello@carmelkestles.com www.carmelkestles.com/ @carmelkestles_mua @harlowhairandbeauty 0476 574 074 34 Park Ave COFFS COAST

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LAURA PEREGRIN THWAITES MARINE OWNER

ow did you spark your passion for boats and all things marine? I have a background in diving and marine science. Before getting in business, I spent years on boats either doing research or teaching people to dive. When I met my husband Ben, he introduced me to all the technical aspects of boating: engines and hulls. We share a passion for the ocean and now we enjoy boating, sailing and surfing as a family of four. Our two little daughters are basically growing up surrounded by boats and surfboards. Can you tell us a little bit about the many clubs that you sponsor, and why sponsoring is so important to you? Locally, we help the Coffs Coast Spearfishing Club, the Coffs Coast Game Sportfishing Club and the local Yacht Club, where they introduce children to sailing. We also sponsored a local sailor, Pierre Gal, who participated in the Sydney to Hobart race in 2019. Australia-wide, we sponsor Women Who Sail Australia and Sistership Magazine. We like sponsoring clubs and events that are either starting or would be considered minorities in the big boating and sailing world. We know first-hand that everyone needs a bit of help when starting a new project, endeavour or business. That is why we try to help clubs with big dreams that are working really hard to grow.

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We have heard there are some big things currently happening at Thwaites Marine... Yes, we are happy to announce that we just became dealers for Tohatsu outboards! These are super reliable, affordable, high-quality engines made in Japan. We are also stocked up with a big range of new Stacer boats. If you are looking for a boat package, you should definitely drop by! Stock is not lasting very long these days. In a male-saturated industry, have you been faced with any challenge that can relate back to the fact you are a woman? Yes, at first it was very challenging to talk about boats and engines with customers. Sometimes I knew I wasn’t taken seriously at all. As my knowledge and confidence grew, our customers trusted me to answer their questions. I still sometimes face some sexist comments, but thankfully at Thwaites Marine we can nowadays choose only to work for and with people who value and respect gender equality. www.thwaitesmarine.com.au @thwaites_marine 30 Industrial Dr, Coffs Harbour

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FITNESS

UPDATE

with COURT, JEN & LEANNE FROM CLUB LIME

eam Lime at Moonee. Meet the women running their Personal Training businesses all under one roof! With the last two turbulent years, these women have shown true resilience in growing and developing their businesses to support the local community to be the best versions of themselves. Court, Jen and Leanne all work independently. However, the fundamentals of their personal training businesses, which centre around helping people become fitter, stronger, healthier and happier, are the same. Personal training has countless benefits; here are a few top picks from these strong women and their insight into how having a coach could benefit you. Qualified Professional In a world diluted with Instagram influencers and ‘fitness pros’, we pride ourselves on being qualified and experienced professionals with a combined 20 years of knowledge; We are all trained to work with clients of all backgrounds and fitness levels, priding ourselves on getting to know your individual needs, helping you achieve a healthier, happier life. Comfort Zone vs Growth Zone We are all guilty of sticking to our comfort zone, maybe that’s using the same machines every time you workout, or watching someone else do an exercise that you would love to try but… ‘no… maybe next week, someone might watch me do it, what if I get it wrong...’ Our comfort zone is safe and familiar.

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As personal trainers, we have a vast arsenal of knowledge about exercises and even more tips and tricks on how best to set up and execute movements to get the most out of them.

However, our comfort zone and our growth zone don’t coexist together. As personal trainers, we have a vast arsenal of knowledge about exercises and even more tips and tricks on how best to set up and execute movements to get the most out of them. We love sharing this information, and to see our clients stepping into their growth zone, taking on challenges, and applying their newly acquired knowledge is our day well done. Perfect Movement & Long Term Safety We all know there are optimal ways of achieving specific results, and the same is true for strength training, both to maximise results and mitigate injury risk. One of the toughest challenges we face as trainers is getting our clients to move with optimal technique; this allows them to get strong and stay injury-free. This education, along with the many other facets of health, helps our clients to live their lives healthier, doing everything they want to without limitation. Enjoyment of Training/Community On Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the third level of human need is social, involving feelings of belongingness. This need for connection is essential in all facets of life and adds value to numerous situations, including exercise and training. As personal trainers, we create great relationships with our clients by understanding, being empathic, and always

being a good listener. We will always work our clients hard in 1:1 sessions, but we also know our clients need to feel comfortable with us; we are all humans, after all. Programming Our article last month in Focus centred around goals

and, more importantly, the systems and steps required to achieve those goals. Programming is our system that gets you to your goal. For those of you who don’t know what programming means, a structured plan of training sessions makes up the building blocks to get you to your goal. Programming can be completed in a 1:1 personal training session or provided to you via an app that outlines precisely what exercises to do, in which order and how many sets and reps. It’s everything you need to achieve your goal, easily accessed on your phone. This is where results are built! 1:1 sessions are great, but pair them with a client coming into the gym other times in the week armed with their program and that’s unstoppable! Regardless of where you are in your fitness journey, we can all learn something new. If you want more from your training, to feel that sense of community, perfect your movement or want guidance on you training program reach out to the team at Club Lime Moonee 02 6653 6122

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Physio To You Mobile Healthcare is Here! with AARON HARDAKER

n a world where Uber Eats brings the restaurant to you, Netflix provides the convenience of the cinema at home, and online shopping means your retail therapy arrives on your doorstep, why isn’t healthcare more available at home for those that need it? The good news is… it is! Mid North Coast Physio is pleased to be launching its Community Care program, which will deliver a physio directly to your home, office, workplace or school to provide the care you need. We caught up with Aaron Hardaker, director of Mid North Coast Physio, to find out more. What is Community Care? The MNC Community Care program is our way of taking the caring, friendly, and highquality healthcare the Coffs Coast community knows and loves from our 4 clinic locations and making it more easily available to those who need it. We’ve recently had Ray Chen, an experienced and multi-talented physio, join our team to head up the Community Care program and ensure we have a dedicated therapist on the road to reach clients across the Coffs Coast.

RAY CHEN

Who will benefit from the Community Care program? We understand some of the most vulnerable in our community are the ones who have the least access to the services they need. Our aim is to provide targeted care and support to clients at home including individuals and families suffering with pain, older adults including those with Home Care Packages, people living with a disability including those funded under NDIS, and those in our community living with chronic disease who can’t access our clinics. We can also provide services for post-operative rehab after hospital discharge along with workplace visits for injury prevention and injury management services as well as schools. Who will be providing the Community Care services in homes and workplaces? As mentioned, we’ve recently had Ray Chen join our team to head up the Community Care program. Before recently moving to Coffs Harbour, Ray worked primarily as a musculoskeletal/sports physiotherapist and clinical Pilates instructor.

He was the Head Physiotherapist at North Shore Mariners, also working at Central Coast Mariners and Manly United Football Club where he gained plenty of experience in the treatment and prevention of sporting injuries. Ray had a serious accident a few years ago that prevented him from working as a private clinician, but in his recovery found a passion for mental health and mindfulness. This led him to complete his Psychology degree and start his PhD in Mindfulness and Pain. He is so grateful for this life-changing experience as it allows him to now support his clients in both the mental and physical aspects of pain/ rehab management in his Physiotherapy work. Along with being a physio, Ray is also a Mindfulness Teacher and Researcher. He is dedicated to helping people in the community free themselves of pain and suffering. To find out more about the Community Care service or to book a home visit, call the friendly team at MNC Physio on 1300 273747.

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C E L E B R AT I N G

GENDER

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DIVERSITY

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

with JULIE THOMAS

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

he magnificence of a rainbow and its significance as a symbol of hope and new beginnings reminds me that rainbows are full circles, a spectrum of colour. The human eye can only observe rainbows from our position on the horizon. As in life, we each have our horizons, and they are all a little different, as no one sees the same rainbow. The rainbow’s significance to the LGBTQIA+ community reflects the diversity and the spectrum of human sexuality and gender. We are more than one colour; we are many colours, not gendered or stereotyped into two dominant colours. It is common for people to think of ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ as the same, but they mean different things. Someone’s sex refers to their physical biology. A person’s gender identity, however, is a person’s sense of who they are: female, male, non-binary (neither male nor female, or a blend), gender fluid (moves between gender identities) or agender (doesn’t identify with any gender). Your gender identity is a deep sense of who you are, your own gender. In some cases, a person’s gender identity may differ from their biological sex. A person’s gender identity is different from their sexual orientation, which is a romantic or sexual attraction. When do children become aware of their gender? Most children begin expressing their gender identity at around two to three years old. They may do this through the way they talk about themselves and the clothes they choose. Children can be very adamant about their gender from an early age.

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Many gender-diverse children also express their gender identity at around two to three years old. They are firm about their gender also. You may find your child refuses to wear particular clothes or gets angry when people misgender them, or they may say they are a different gender. Older gender-diverse children may talk about their gender identity differently in primary or secondary school. For some children, this happens after puberty, and some may not know or express this until they are into adulthood. It is common for all children to experiment with gender roles to make sense of their place in the world, and this exploration does not necessarily mean your child is transgender. Children don’t start to think of their gender as permanent or ‘forever’ until around six or seven years of age. This change happens when they realise their environment expects them to behave in specifically gendered ways. Gender Roles Our biology and our environment influence gender roles. Children often model themselves through imitation of significant adults in their lives. However, children must be aware that traditional roles and jobs are not specifically gendered. It is vital for children to know that they have the freedom to follow their own interests, passions and skill set, regardless of whether it fits or does not fit socially constructed traditional norms. Here are a few things that you can do to assist your child from developing gender stereotypes when they are young: • Provide gender-neutral books, games and puzzles. • Provide opportunities to play with a wide range

of toys. • Allow children to choose activities and sports that interest them. • Encourage children to make friends with all peers. • Praise all children for being kind, brave, neat, helpful and courageous (these are human traits rather than gendered). Gender Inequality Gender inequality emerges when people get treated differently and discriminated against based on their gender. Children must learn social skills in communicating respectfully and learn boundaries, regardless of gender. Teach children to: • Understand their emotions and how to deal with them. • How to solve problems effectively. • Use respectful verbal and non-verbal language. • Manage stress and worrying thoughts. • Know how to help friends or get help for others. • Encourage relationships that are respectful and caring. Gender development is typical for all children; however, some children will exhibit variations similar to all human health and behaviour areas. However, all children need supportive people, love, and care from family, school, and community, who will understand and affirm their gender identity, fostering growth, resilience and inclusion into healthy, happy and safe environments. Celebrate your child’s true colours! Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach) Member of Australian Counselling Association Member of WPATH

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Teyarna Young

i Teyarna. When did you first become interested in beauty therapy and the idea of it as a career path? From a young age I always loved playing around with makeup. When I started my schooling at CHEC (year 11) I enrolled in a TVET course (basically makes up for a class and counts towards your ATAR), the course was a certificate in Beauty services. I always knew beauty was something I wanted to do in my life but it wasn’t until doing my TVET course that I fully understood that I could actually make a full career out of it. I had amazing teachers who supported me right from the start and had been in the beauty industry for years, hearing all their stories and experiences really encouraged me to pursue my passion. You left High School to do your beauty training at TAFE, was that a difficult decision to make? Leaving school was a very hard decision for myself. I have two older siblings who 106 COFFS COAST

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Teyarna Young is a driven and talented young beauty therapist WHO STARTED HER TRAINING WHILST AT SCHOOL AND DECIDED TO PURSUE HER DREAMS BY CONTINUING ON INTO A BEAUTY DIPLOMA AT TAFE. She recently competed in the WorldSkills Competition placing in both regional and national levels!

both completed all their schooling so I really us girls training on each other and coming struggled with the thought of disappointing to understand the science and how much my mum by being the first one in the family knowledge is actually involved with beauty. to not finish school. Mum did take a little How long ago did you complete your convincing, but eventually she came around training and how has it been settling and we came to the into the salon work agreement that I could environment? leave school as long as I started my training I worked two I worked or did a TAFE when I was in year 11 hospitality course or something to at CHEC in 2018 with jobs and saved up to continue my education. a Cert 3 in Beauty put myself through So I did both, I worked Services, and I continued two hospitality jobs and on starting my diploma my Diploma of saved up to put myself in February of 2019. I Beauty therapy. I through my Diploma completed my diploma continued to work of Beauty therapy. I August of 2020 with a whilst doing full continued to work whilst slight extension due to time studies for the doing full time studies Covid. November 2020 diploma. for the diploma. I started on at Blush What did you enjoy just as work experience about your training? and then in January 2021 I was officially I enjoyed everything about my training, part of the team. Blush is a gorgeous salon getting to know my classmates, making with amazing coworkers. I’m so blessed to great friends, learning all the techniques of have found a position in such a positive and beauty treatments, getting pampered from supportive salon.

You were part of the recent National WorldSkills Competition, can you tell us what that is and how you came to be involved? WorldSkills is an internationally recognised competition run through TAFE. They have regional, national and international levels. My TAFE teachers encouraged everyone to compete in the regional as it was held at our campus. It consisted of completing a whole day of multiple beauty treatments and makeup services on a client, whilst being marked and judged. I was excited to be involved to find out how my skills were, to push myself to do the best I could and to know where I’d need to improve. How did the competition go for you and what did you get out of being part of it? The competition was an amazing opportunity that I will forever be thankful for. I met and got to learn from some extremely talented role models in the beauty therapy industry and compete against fellow therapists with the same drive and dedication to the industry that I have. For the regional level I placed second and got the opportunity to represent at the national level. The national level was originally to be held in Perth in August 2020, however due to Covid restrictions and lockdowns the The beauty event was postponed industry is and moved. The event constantly evolving. I was held in Sydney in try to stay up to speed August 2021. It was and learn as much as I three days of completing can so currently I’m feel confident and various advanced beauty doing a course lovely. The beauty treatments on a variety industry is constantly through TAFE on of clients. I placed fourth evolving. I try to stay in the national level. For Laser Hair removal. up to speed and learn myself the competition as much as I can so was never about placing, currently I’m doing a course through TAFE on I saw it as an amazing opportunity to learn and grow as a therapist, to make myself proud Laser Hair removal. I also run my own small business on a Sunday at the Harbourside and to prove to myself I have what it takes to Markets just to switch things up, it’s a little be an amazing therapist. burger food stall called Smokey Joes. Can you tell us about what you’re up to What are some of your favourite services now? to offer clients? As of lately I have been enjoying the new My favourite relaxing services to offer to location of Blush, getting to know the new clients are massage and facials, the most fun clientele and spending time making people

service for myself is definitely makeup, and I love to see the instant results from waxing treatments. What are some of your plans and hopes for the future? In the future I would love to travel, I hope to work on cruise ships or yachts providing beauty services. Being able to travel and experience the world whilst doing what I love would be amazing. For my future I hope to be a good role model for my younger sister, to show her and one day hopefully my children to always believe in yourself, trust in yourself and to just do the best you can. COFFS COAST

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E D U C AT I O N

UPDATE with NICK JOHNSTONE

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

Catering for Diverse Needs

chools today know that students have different learning needs and, more than ever before, are flexible to them. Whether it be learning challenges, aspirations for trade or university, schools cater for the diverse needs of their students, are clear about what students can and should be able to do, and how to deliver teachings to achieve maximum impacts. Teaching methods need to be inclusive to be able to cater for specific needs. These strategies and adjustments enable the learner to achieve at or close to their potential. It doesn’t matter whether these learner needs relate to a diagnosed disability or a highly gifted student, top-performing schools set ambitious goals about meeting these requirements. Here’s how schools adjust to the individual’s teaching, learning and assessment requirements today: 1. Choice and curriculum diversity – allowing students some choice and ownership with the curriculum. This choice can also drive intrinsic student motivation. We all work harder in our areas of passion. 2. Timing – the amount of time allocated to each subject area or learning task. Is there enough time to complete the learning task? Are there checkpoints? Is there a drafting and feedback process? 3. Scheduling – when assessment occurs. Is there flexibility in the assessment schedule? If a student is in a state sporting team, can the assessment deadline be extended? Can the student or the year advisor contribute

to the assessment schedule to support a cocurricular or family need? 4. Setting – where assessment is completed. Does the assessment need to be completed in the classroom? What can be done at home? Should all the work occur in the classroom? Who owns the student’s project? Can we take the class outside? If we are doing a science lesson on wavelength, can the lesson happen at the beach? 5. Presentation – how an assessment appears or is communicated to a student. Is the task presented in different modes to appeal to the visual, auditory and sensory needs of students? Do the students have some choice in how they present their work? 6. Response – how a student responds to the assessment feedback. Feedback that is specific and timely is essential. A mark or a grade without a conversation or annotation is almost worthless. The student needs to feel that their work has value and that the teacher has acknowledged their effort so that the student can feel ownership over their learning journey. 7. Gamification and fun – is the student enjoying the learning experience? Not all learning experiences should be turned into games or competitions but there are some opportunities where students can work hard to achieve their personal best. Gamification in mathematics programs such as Mathletics is an avenue that many schools are investigating. 8. Parental involvement – valuing education highly is just part of the equation. Parents and carers are the essential third

part of the student learning process along with their teachers. Parents who value the schooling experience and are respectful of the aim of the school often reap the benefits with children who also value the time and commitment required to do well academically. 9. Developing an open mindset – this is a key ingredient in school settings today. Schools evolve quickly, processes change, and opportunities arise. Students, teachers and parents who have an open mindset tend to be more adaptable and resilient when it comes to change. The last two years of COVID has certainly highlighted this attribute. 10. Future-focused – giving students access to career education early. Schools who invest in career education, guest speakers, work experience opportunities, and internships as early as possible tend to support students to develop meaningful post-school relationships and goals. Top school systems tend to address the diversity of student needs with differentiated pedagogical practice – without compromising on standards. They realise that ordinary students can have extraordinary talents; and they personalise the education experience so that all students can meet high standards. Moreover, teachers in these systems invest not just in their students’ academic success but also in their wellbeing. And this makes for better students, learners, and preparedness for life ‘after school’. COFFS COAST

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KONICHIWA FROM MHOC SAWTELL

Did you know that many primary schools in Japan have unicycles to ride during play breaks?

LANGUAGE IS TAUGHT IN AN IMMERSIVE SETTING WITH CHILDREN FEELING LIKE THEY HAVE ENTERED JAPAN ONCE THEY WALK THROUGH BOYD SENSEI’S DOOR. NO PLANE TICKET REQUIRED!

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ntering their fifth year of a comprehensive Japanese culture and language program, students at MHOC Sawtell have decided to join in the fun.

Led by Boyd Sensei and members of the school’s Japanese Club, unicycling has become a ‘must-try’ for many students. When Focus visited, children from Year 2 were participating in a Japanese Bean Throwing ceremony which involves making a resolution and throwing beans to cast away our bad habits. The school regularly links up with primary schools in Japan, with principal Liz Watts trying soba (cold noodles) and

Japanese principal, Shimada Sensei, trying vegemite, much to the delight-and horror- of students in both countries. Students from the school were featured on regional Japanese television enjoying the opportunity to chat in real-time with their Japanese peers and to show off their lunchboxes and origami creations. Language is taught in an immersive setting with children feeling like they have entered Japan once they walk through Boyd Sensei’s door. No plane ticket required! Japanese club members enjoy origami, food-tasting, anime, manga drawing and all things Japanese. Mata ne! (See you later!)

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LEADERS with CASSANDRA WILSON FROM BECOMING U PROJECT

i Mikal, tell us a little This is a group of young people across about yourself… Coffs Harbour and the North Coast who come I came to Australia when together to combat discrimination amongst I was 6 years old with my our cohort, mainly through the creation of family, including my older arts and music. Although supported by Blue brother and 2 younger Sky Community Services and STARTTS, we are sisters. We moved to Coffs Harbour and I really empowered as young people to drive started school at Coffs Harbour Public School, this message. We have young people from all before I was lucky enough to gain a scholarship different backgrounds and ages. I have taken to join Bishop Druitt College. My parents placed on a role of helping promote this message such a high value on education and learning through the media, interviews and schools to and have passed on this love and appreciation help it become a larger conversation that racism to my myself and my siblings. I am an extremely is not ok, and we all share the responsibility to proud Australian who stop it. I have heard you also is filled with gratitude, We have a group have an incredible goal has a strong history and at my school to present to Canberra culture, and wants to with your human make a difference in this that comes together rights group at school. world by getting people each week on Fridays. Yes, that’s right. talking about hard things The purpose of this We have a group at and coming together to group is to look for my school that comes make a change. opportunities to together each week on What do you love bring attention to Fridays. The purpose about school? human rights. of this group is to I have some amazing look for opportunities friends that I love to bring attention to spending time with. human rights. This could be through harmony The teachers too, because I really value having celebrations to writing articles to help educate mature and thought-provoking discussions with our school community. I am working on them, the opportunities that learning opens for increasing the impact of this group to a wider us and that it allows me to start exploring my audience across our community. Because of passions and potential career paths. this strong passion of mine, I have had an One of those passions is the Youth Action opportunity to work alongside a role model in Collective that you are part of. What is this human rights issues, Kim Randle, specifically about? 112 COFFS COAST

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around creating innovative and best practices for businesses to ensure they comply with NSW and Commonwealth modern slavery acts which I am so grateful for. You are the year 12 Academic Captain at BDC this year, what do you hope to achieve with this leadership role? Firstly, I feel so honoured to be in this position and serve my school. I hope to inspire our primary and secondary students to increase their creative thinking. I love when I meet younger students who are curious and ask so many why questions, as it reminds me of me when I was their age. If I can foster this curiosity by engaging them at school, encouraging them to look at things differently about the world, who they are, and what they can achieve and then talk about it, it would be a great legacy I leave behind. Mikal, you are an inspirational and very humble human who I have loved meeting and hearing some of your story, let’s end on what advice you would give to other young people. It’s ok to not have it all sorted yet. I’m not sure what my path will be next year, but I know that I want to meet more and more interesting people. Always be honest and tell the truth at the highest level, as it is one of the greatest values you can live by. Be true to yourself, pursue your passions and enjoy your life. And dream big, by being the best version of yourself, and being the change you want to see. Thanks Mikal.

What is ergofix

ocated on West High Street in Coffs Harbour, Ergofix is an awarded rehabilitation provider, with professional Physiotherapists specialising in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, as well as expertise in ergonomics and the prevention of injuries. Our practice is different, our motto is to diagnose, treat and fix. We aim to fix you in the least possible appointments… we build our business by fixing you… and then you tell lots of others about us! Physiotherapists David and Adam have extensive experience, this means that Ergofix offers you the highest quality assessment and treatment from industry professionals. Please check us out, ask us questions, understand your body and expect more from your treating physio. Our mission is to get you back into life… quickly! We invest time in you, we listen, we care! Let’s talk inclusiveness While we have a relatively small workforce, this doesn’t mean we shy from staff inclusiveness. We have 4 staff in total and are an equal opportunity employer – this was demonstrated when we were happily approached by Key Employment, a Disability Employment Service over 12 months ago. We

have now employed 2 amazing and talented staff into our administration team. Inclusion is a sense of belonging, connection, and community at work. Inclusive organisations like ours help people feel welcomed, known, valued, and encouraged to being their whole, unique selves at work. When an employee feels that their voice and unique self are appreciated, there’s a greater sense of value and satisfaction and this will be reflected on our patrons. How has Key Employment helped? Key Employment has been essential to our success through the supports they deliver and the ongoing assistance they have provided. Key Employment’s consultant Cheryl has been assisting us through regular fortnightly contact and helping us get over any little speed humps that get in the way. Cheryl took care of all the paperwork required for

financial incentives to our business and made the process for claiming these very simple, and as a small business, these incentives are vital to the ongoing growth of our team and have allowed us to reduce our business overheads. Would you recommend Key Employment to other local businesses? Absolutely we would, working with Cheryl and the Key Employment team has been easy, they have understood our business needs and worked with us to identify suitable candidates and guide us through all things great and small. We personally recommend Key Employment to any other local business looking to diversify their staff as we have and reap the benefits of an inclusive workplace. So, give Cheryl from Key Employment a call on 02 6691 9999, and she will be happy to talk to you about the variety of services Key Employment offer.

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LAURA

D A L E Y ASPECT AUTISM SCHOOL

Laura Daley has two beautiful sons who have both been diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum, and as she adjusted to meeting the additional needs of her boys she decided that she needed to improve the system and facilities available to us here in regional areas. She was an advocate for the Aspect Autism School which opened in Coffs Harbour in 2016.

i Laura. You have two children who have both been diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum, what were the early days of diagnosis like for you

and your family? The early days were hard. My eldest son was two, and I also had a three month old baby, so I was sleep deprived, and trying to adjust to the news that Autism was now a big part of our life. It was busy and overwhelming; trying to do the ‘normal’ parenting of feeding, washing, swimming lessons, plus being the ‘at home’ therapist for my son. I learned sign language (as my son was non-verbal back then), did occupational therapy, speech therapy and tried to soak up many skills and strategies to help my boys reach their potential. Parents can also experience some grief when they have a child receive a diagnosis. It is an adjustment to realise that your life may be different to how you had planned it might be. I distinctly remember that on one really 114 COFFS COAST

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hard day, I was crying on the phone to my mum. I was very worried that as my two-yearold had autism, there was a high chance that my baby son might also be autistic. Having two autistic children was my greatest fear, as I wasn’t sure I could cope. But I can honestly say that ten years on, my biggest fear has become my biggest blessing. When you have a child with special needs, how important is community support and how did finding supports help you? Support is essential for all parents. When you throw special needs into the mix, everyone needs a helping hand. I joined the Coffs Coast Autism Support Group, and found other mums whose lives were very similar to mine. The boys and I went to a special needs playgroup every week, and it was like a big warm hug. My boys had funding (like NDIS) to help us navigate all of the therapy they needed, which meant support from organisations like Early Connections, and Northcott, and Aspect. Those specialists really understand your child, and family, and help you work through any

challenges that may pop up. You campaigned for the Aspect Autism School here in Coffs Harbour, can you tell us about the school? I did allow myself to wallow in grief for a couple of weeks after my son’s diagnosis. Not because Autism is a negative thing, but there was definitely a period of readjustment. But after a while, you really do just have to get on with things. I knew I would need help. I needed to build a support network. I needed an Aspect class in Coffs Harbour. I set about arranging multiple Community meetings, brochures, letters. I met with every Principal in the Coffs Harbour area. I did this while working part time, mothering and taking the boys to therapy twice a week. I naively thought it would take 12 months – how wrong I was! Together with some other mums, we toiled for five years. We wanted a class, but ended up building a full school! In February 2016, the Aspect School opened its doors, and it changed all of our lives.

The school is the first of its kind in NSW outside of metro areas, what do you hope local families will get out of having an option like this locally? I wanted families to have choice and control over where their child went to school, and select something that best suited their needs. Aspect offers a small campus, and small classes where each child gets the curriculum adapted to their interests and skills. When the school started, I just felt like I could finally exhale. I no longer had to be the mum AND therapist. I went back to ‘just’ being Mum, and enjoying my boys. What kind of support has the school received from the Coffs community? Coffs Harbour Council was a driving force in helping establish the school; they worked with us to identify a building that could be upgraded to cater for the kids. While the school building premises was being upgraded, ‘Your Church’ allowed the school to temporarily set up in their premises, which was so generous. The school has received funding support And while my from ETC, the State life is certainly Government, Bunnings different to how I and other donations to thought it would be, it help get equipment and is so much richer for the outdoor space set means I have the the path I’ve walked up. capacity to focus on with my beautiful There are currently no other things. boys. I wouldn’t high school options My day job is as a like Aspect Autism change a thing. public servant, I’m a School in the area, solicitor and mediator, which means that so in my spare time I’ve families are leaving Coffs to provide this been working on some exciting projects. I’ve type of education for their kids. Do you joined the NSW Disability Advocacy Advisory think a high school could be a possibility Board, which is looking at systemic issues of for our area? disadvantage for people with disabilities. There is definitely demand for an Aspect With community groups and Specialisterne High School in the Coffs Harbour Area. As we are in talks about an autism employment kids age out of primary school, their families project in Coffs Harbour, that works with either move, or try homeschooling. We have local employers to find a role that unlocks an tried to start a high school, but without land, individual’s unique talents, kind of like the TV it remains a pipe dream. show “Employable Me”. Coffs Coast Autism Since the school was established, you’ve and North Coast AFL are planning an “All also done some other advocacy work. Tell Abilities Afternoon”, on Monday 28 March at us about that. 4pm. This will be a fun arvo of ball skills and Our life is much simpler these days, which laughs, and is open to all abilities, disabilities

and ages. And as my eldest starts high school, I’m also advocating with the NSW Department of Education, about changing their Assisted School Travel Policy, which I believe doesn’t cater to regional kids’ needs. What advice would you give to other parents of kids with ASD? Build a support network – they will help you through the hard days, and celebrate with you on the fabulous days. My support network has become like family to us, and I honestly couldn’t have done it without them. And if you’re having problems with a service or system, reach out. If you’re having issues, it means other families will be too, and together we can work to change it for the better. And while my life is certainly different to how I thought it would be, it is so much richer for the path I’ve walked with my beautiful boys. I wouldn’t change a thing. COFFS COAST

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THE PLEASURE PRINCIPLE AND THE

PSYCHOLOGY OF SWEARING Dr Desirée Kozlowski is an expert in pleasure, gender roles and emotional intelligence. She’s a proud Coffs Coast local, a star in the Twitter-sphere, and Course Coordinator of Southern Cross University’s Bachelor of Psychological Science.

e chat to her about how pleasure can affect our mental wellbeing, the psychology of swearing, and her latest research project: The National Pleasure Audit. It’ll make you want to study psychology! Let’s start off by talking about pleasure. How do you define pleasure? I’m sure a lot of people’s brains jump straight to the sexy stuff. Well that’s undeniably a lovely place to 116 COFFS COAST

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It’s just so impossibly beautiful and luxurious. We often take for granted these little things and every day experiences that feel so wonderful.

go! The two biggest things that people think about when I say “yes, my study area is pleasure” is definitely sexual or sensual pleasure and the other one is food, particularly chocolate! But I'm encouraging people to look far more broadly and in more detail at their lives. An example I often use is the pleasure of standing underneath a warm shower. It’s just so impossibly beautiful and luxurious. We often take for

granted these little things and every day experiences that feel so wonderful. If there’s a message that anyone takes from this, it’s the power of bringing our attention to those small, simple, accessible pleasures that have a lot of influence over our frame of mind. So how do these pleasure-filled moments affect our mental wellbeing? The evidence is showing very strongly that

produce an upward spiral of benefits over sustained periods. This can include positive anticipation of a pleasurable experience, savouring the moment, or positive reminiscing. What’s your tip for the most pleasurable place or activity in Coffs Harbour? Depending on my mood, that would be either boogie boarding at North Wall or walking through the forest at Bruxner Park. Both leave me feeling alive and recharged. I could go on and on though: coffee at the Jetty, walking Sawtell beach, sushi in the town centre, a lazy morning at Bello, or standing on the Southern break wall when the ocean is wild – all bring delight of one variety or another. Tell us about your new research project, The National Pleasure Audit. I’m so happy you asked! The National Pleasure Audit is a Research also nationwide survey shows the act investigating the of maximising nature and extent moments of pleasure of Australians’ can produce an pleasures. I want to upward spiral of create a snapshot of benefits over where people find pleasure, how much sustained periods. of it they find, as well This can include as how often and positive anticipation how strongly they of a pleasurable experience certain experience, positive feelings. This increasing our range of savouring the research will help us pleasurable experiences moment, or positive to understand more is associated with a reminiscing. about the important number of benefits, link between from reducing perceived wellbeing and stress, depression and experiencing pleasure. anxiety to boosting our immune function It’s open to all Australians over 18 and I and even to longevity. The way this works would love for everyone reading this to take is by activating the equal but opposite part! Just head to nationalpleasureadit.com arm of the autonomic nervous system, before 31 March. the parasympathetic division, and that’s all You’ve also done a lot of work with about rest and restoration. gender roles and gender harmony. Research also shows the act of What do you think gender harmony would look like for society? maximising moments of pleasure can

We haven't really seen it yet, so we might not recognise it, but I think we're working toward an understanding. When I talk about gender roles, I’m talking about the things that are expected of us because of our apparent gender. So, if I’m a woman, along with this comes a whole bunch of societal expectations and some of those I’ve probably internalised so that I actually think that’s who I am and that those make me a good person. So, it’s these stereotypical roles that we need to look at in detail. If those roles limit anyone, irrespective of their gender, it limits the richness and potential of our society. We can’t be asking ‘why aren’t women attracted to science’ while we dress our daughters in sparkly shoes or long dresses so they can’t get into the mud to look at the mangroves. We can’t expect men to be overtly nurturing while we tell our sons that crying is for girls. Now, onto other fascinating topics. What can you tell us about the psychology of swearing? Swearing is a really intriguing topic psychologically. There’s a quite well-known study where participants were asked to immerse their hand in ice water. Some of the participants were allowed to swear and others were only allowed to use a neutral word, like table or chair. The experiment showed that the people who were allowed to swear could hold their hand in the water for longer and were able to withstand more pain. Subsequent studies showed the extent to which they could withstand the pain was linked to how forbidden it was for them to swear in their childhood. So, if swearing was a big no-no for them as a child, then it had even more of a pain attenuating effect. It’s the simple fact that it’s forbidden that gives it that power, when really it’s just a bunch of sounds! Southern Cross University offers a suite of Psychology degrees at the Coffs Harbour campus, including a Bachelor, Honours degree and even a combined Bachelor of Exercise Science and Psychological Science. Learn more scu.edu.au/psychology COFFS COAST

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Coffs Harbour

Netball A S S O C I AT I O N

TANYA SLAVIERO IS THE PRESIDENT OF THE COFFS HARBOUR NETBALL ASSOCIATION (CHNA) AND THIS YEAR IS ALL ABOUT ENCOURAGING NEW PLAYERS, INCLUDING BOYS AND MEN, TO PLAY IN ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR WOMEN’S SPORTS IN AUSTRALIA.

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his March is marking the start of both Junior and Senior competitions and the first time that games will be played on the new international courts. Tanya, tell us a little about Netball. Over 1.2 million participants enjoy the game of netball nationally each year. It is a ball sport played by two teams of seven players that move around the court catching and passing the ball to teammates. Games are played on a rectangular court with a goal ring at each end. It is a fun sport that can be played by people of all ages and abilities. Games consist of four 12-minute quarters. There are many variants to the game that also include Fast5 and Walking Netball. Playing a game of netball will ensure the player has a good cardiovascular workout that will improve overall fitness and increase flexibility and strength. Learning to play a team sport will teach you a skill for life. Where is Netball played? All games are played at “Vost Park Netball Courts’’ on Murray Drive, Coffs Harbour.

There is no travelling required to play netball. we want them to look back at their time with All games are played at the same venue and CHNA with only fond happy memories. We same time each week, making this sport very even have a Net-Set-Go program that runs family friendly and extremely cost effective. for 10 weeks to teach 5- to 7-year-olds the Juniors, 7 to 17 years skills required to play. old, play each Saturday We guarantee that afternoon from 12pm when you play netball Netball is for and seniors, 14 years you will have Fun, you everyone, whether or older, play each will build Friendships it’s playing, coaching, Wednesday night from and you will improve umpiring, helping us out 6:30pm. Competitions your Fitness all at the in the canteen or with are set up so that all same time. abilities can play, so if How can people find fundraising. It’s the help you are new to netball out more? and support from the or returning after some We have four community that make time away from it there amazing clubs that us the best we can be. is a competition for players can register your level of playing with. Sawtell/Toormina, ability. In 2022 CHNA is Souths, Surfside introducing Walking Netball, Fast5 and Male (seniors only) and Westside. Junior players competitions. will learn the skills required at training each Who can get involved? week from 4pm on the club designated day. Netball is for everyone, whether it’s All clubs can be found on social media or playing, coaching, umpiring, helping us out in contact CHNA for more information and we the canteen or with fundraising. It’s the help will guide you in the right direction. and support from the community that make Please follow us on social media or email us the best we can be. As children get older us at chna1@bigpond.com COFFS COAST

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RICHIE GODDARD Richie Goddard is a cattle farmer from Hernani who lives with autism. He says he has always received support and mentoring throughout his life that has helped him to embrace being on the autism spectrum as part of who he is. He is now mentoring young people also on the spectrum to help them do the same. Richie is just a beautiful soul who always has a smile and is willing to help anyone.

i Richie. Can you introduce yourself to our readers? Hello everyone. I am 30 years old and manage my parents’ beef cattle farm in addition to my pool work and learn to swim teaching at local pools, but my greatest passion is mentoring children and young adults on the autism spectrum. I grew up on a farm in Hernani with my parents, Hugh and Shana, and sisters, Katie and Emma. I was diagnosed with autism around 22 months of age and began the long journey towards self-acceptance through the support of an amazing community and the love of my family. Today, I am engaged to my partner, Emily, and we plan to marry later this year. I should also say that I love cars, tractors, swimming, music (Triple J is my go-to radio station) and helping others. You work as a cattle farmer, where is the farm and what sort of things do you get up to on an average day on the farm? 120 COFFS COAST

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Our beef farm is located at Hernani, on the intervention program when I was a Dorrigo Plateau, approximately 100km west of preschooler and first represented at School Coffs Harbour. The work is varied and changes State when I was turning eight years old. with the seasons. For instance, in winter our When I was 11, I made the NSW School Sport cows are calving so we Team to represent at need to monitor them Nationals in Darwin, a and occasionally help particular honour as it Ocean with birthing, while in was the first time events summer I plant grass were held for multi swimming and winter fodder disability swimmers! I came along a bit crops. There are fences went on to represent later, but I absolutely to maintain, cattle to NSW at Nationals a love it. I have a real be vaccinated, weeds further seven times affinity with the to control and I also do and had the honour of water so instructing farm labouring and farm being vice-captain of the others seemed a contracting jobs around team in 2009 and 2010. logical progression. the district. On a farm, Ocean swimming came there is never a shortage along a bit later, but I of things to do! absolutely love it. I have We hear you’re a gun ocean swimmer, a real affinity with the water so instructing and that you’re also a learn to swim others seemed a logical progression. Through instructor. When did you first get into mentoring, I had the pleasure of training one swimming? of my young people, Spencer, to represent at I started swimming as part of an early School State in breaststroke and his brother,

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My life changed Henry, to win at to develop strategies to his school carnival. manage their anxieties when I was asked This inspired me to in everyday situations. I to give a two minute get my Austswim take my young people unprepared speech of qualifications. shopping, I cook with ‘Why am I here?’ to my What do you enjoy them, kick a soccer ball fellow peers at a most about it? or play board games and, Rotary Youth I’m often asked of course, take them Leadership Awards how I remain swimming! And now (RYLA) camp. motivated to train and the tide has turned and I compete. The answer actually learn more from is simple – it keeps the these wonderful people crazies out! The feeling of pulling through the than I teach them! water helps me to focus and I tend to swim Why was it important to you to help out issues that are troubling me. I have made others living with autism? so many friendships through both pool and When I was younger, I wished that I had ocean swimming, and my coaches have acted friends that were on the autism spectrum to as mentors. As an instructor, I enjoy seeing share my thoughts and feelings. That said, the skill progression in kids and forming deep I had incredible mentors from all walks of connections with families who place their trust life, who helped me to see my autism as in me. being part of who I am. This has inspired me You live with autism yourself and now to mentor others. My life changed when I mentor young people with autism, what was asked to give a two minute unprepared sort of things do you help them with? speech of ‘Why am I here?’ to my fellow peers Living with autism presented many at a Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) challenges for me when I was younger. I had camp. I decided, in that moment, to embrace sensory issues that impacted my everyday life, my autism and no longer try to hide the particularly concerning foods, clothing and fact that I was on the spectrum. I still don’t textures which I have now, for the most part, really understand exactly why some people overcome. Understanding on such a personal were crying at the end of my address, but I level the difficulties that young people on remember feeling that a weight had been the spectrum face allows me to help them lifted from my shoulders. I hope to encourage

others living with autism to be proud of who they are and what they can achieve. You’re also on the committee with disabled surfing, how did you get involved there? I remember seeing DSA set up at the jetty after my friends and I went for an ocean swim. I asked the organisers what it was about and it seemed like a really well run, and fun, event. Being able to support the disabled community to participate in an activity that the wider community takes for granted is something I feel blessed to be a part of. This, combined with my love of water, makes volunteering at DSA something I am truly passionate about. You’re very involved with getting out into the community and helping others, if you could get a message out to the community about autism what would it be? Use your strengths to the fullest, whether it’s an ability to ‘hyper focus’ or having an incredible attention to detail or a high pain threshold. I use my particular strengths to try to outswim my opponents. Be true to yourself because if you lie to yourself, you’ll end up lying to others and you could sadly miss out on opportunities. Finally, embrace those who really love, support and back you, because there are more people who choose to love, care and support you than those who don’t. COFFS COAST

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Community COFFS COAST

COLLEGE

Blue Ribbon Homes

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The Coffs Coast Community College is proud to announce a move into new premises, still in the heart of the Coffs Harbour City centre surrounded by great cafes, boutiques and businesses. The custom designed space is modern, welcoming and offers quality training facilities.

“

e have more than doubled our training space to meet the needs of industry and the community. It allows us to provide quality training the way we do best, with smaller class sizes and supported learning with a strong customer focus,” says College Manager Renee Chetty. The NSW Government is offering many Fee Free courses right now and Coffs Coast Community College is dedicated to making training affordable for the entire community. The new premises provides spaces that simulate work environments, for students to practice and consolidate the skills they are learning. The College offers a variety of nationally accredited qualifications and leisure courses, from Aged Care, Business, IT and

Hospitality, to short courses such as RSA, RCG, First Aid, Barista and Safe Food Handling. They also offer Traineeships – a chance to work, earn and learn. The College welcomes everyone to come and see for yourself what a great facility they have created. There is also a Tech Hub for community use, to play on iPads, surf and shop on the internet, check emails and print personal documents. With the additional space, they also hire rooms, from general classroom style spaces with Smart TVs, to full kitchen and smaller meeting rooms. All spaces are fully air conditioned with the latest COVID filters and are available weekdays, evening and weekends. “We hope to demonstrate through the quality of our premises, training and services how much we value our community,” says Renee.

Level 1, Suite 201, The Vault, 92-98 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour. Call 02 6652 5378 for more information.

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DISPLAY

The Belleview

HOME NOW OPEN

The Belleview is a contemporary home that showcases Blue Ribbon Homes’ quality, innovation and individuality. The Belleview is a unique 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 Crescent, Bonville Sawtell Commons Estate Tue, Wed, Thurs, Sat & Sun 10am - 3pm

Call 6651 8144 www.blueribbonhomes.com.au

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MONEY M AT T E R S

with TANYA HOWE

F R O M B A R R Y H O C K E Y A C C O U N TA N T S

WHAT IS FINANCIAL WELLNESS AND HOW CAN YOU ACHIEVE IT?

he beginning of the year is often the time when people reassess their overall wellness and set new goals to improve their physical and mental health, but there’s a third component of our overall wellness that is often overlooked: Financial Wellness. Financial wellness can dramatically improve your life and means that you have the ability to reach your goals, take advantage of opportunities and gives you flexibility to pursue your dreams. Not to mention, sleeping soundly at night. The best way to achieve financial wellness is through financial literacy. Being financially literate means understanding the importance of setting short and long term goals (like home ownership and retirement). It means understanding the difference between good and bad debt and avoiding high interest credit cards. It also means that no matter what stage of life you’re at, or what your income is, you know how to live within your means, stick to a budget and plan for your future. Remember it’s not how much you earn that counts, it’s how much you spend! With rising inflation and the continuing 124 COFFS COAST

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COVID pandemic, many people are feeling financially stressed which can lead to poor health, relationship breakdowns and depression. Many financial stresses can be avoided with some basic knowledge. Here’s a few tips to help improve your financial wellness: CREATE A BUDGET A simple budget helps you control your spending, track your expenses and save more money. It’s the first vital step in taking control of your finances and it’s easier than you think. Download a free template such as https:// moneysmart.gov.au/budgeting/budget-planner and get started today. Be honest with the numbers, remember no one else has to see it, and that’s the only way your budget will work for you. SET FINANCIAL GOALS What are your financial goals? It could be short term goals like saving up for a holiday, long term goals such as purchasing property or paying off your mortgage, creating an investment portfolio, or even early retirement. KNOWLEDGE Once you set your goals, you can acquire the knowledge and resources to help you achieve them. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Talk to

your accountant, financial planner or your bank manager who can work with you to help you reach your financial goals. Read everything, ‘Knowledge is Power’. There are also many great podcasts available for free, take a look some of these for inspiration: • Money Magazine’s ‘Friends with Money’ • ‘She’s on the money’ by Victoria Devine • ‘The Broke Generation’ by Emma Edwards KEEP YOUR TAX & FINANCIAL RECORDS UP TO DATE Keeping accurate and up-to-date tax and financial records is vital to the success of your financial goals. Good records help you manage your cash flow more efficiently, keep up to date with tax lodgements and make applying for bank finance easier. Using a registered tax agent ensures greater accuracy and less chance of audit, and their fees are tax deductible. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. We not only specialise in taxation, but we have extensive background skills in finance and banking. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care.

with JASON BURLEY FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

H OW FA R C A N A

HOME CARE PACKAGE

S T R E T C H AGEING AT HOME IS EASIER TO ACHIEVE WITH INCREASED NUMBERS OF HOME CARE PACKAGES, BUT MAXIMISING YOUR VALUE NEEDS AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE RULES AND A COMPARISON OF FEES.

or most people, home care is the preferred aged care option because it may allow you to age well while continuing to stay in your own home. But while it might be your preference, it is not always the best option. Understanding how home care might work for you needs a reality check around waiting times, adequacy of the care available and costs. Understanding fees and financial implications should be at the top of your research checklist. What fees apply? There are four levels of home care packages. Level 4 is the highest and gives you an annual budget up to $56,400 to spend. Some of this is your contribution, but most is paid by the government. At just over $1,000 per week, this may seem like a lot of money, and it is, but not all of the budget is used to directly pay for your care. You first need an approved home care

provider to manage the package – and they charge management fees which come off the top of your available budget. Then there are fees for the care services and perhaps staff travel time. Providers can set their own fees, so compare fee schedules across providers. Competition and legislative changes have reduced these management fees, but you could still be using 20-25% of your package before you even start to receive any care services. How far can the package stretch? Let’s look at a case study for Athol who is approved for a Level 4 package. He has a budget of $2,169 per fortnight ($56,400 per year) to spend. Depending on his assessable income, Athol pays the first $154-$597 per fortnight and the government pays the rest. Assume Athol and his family choose a provider that charges $434 per fortnight for management. This uses 20% of the budget. If care services are charged at $70 per hour, his remaining budget may be enough to fund just

under 2 hours of care per day (less if charged for travel time). The provider may also charge varying prices for peak times, weekends or night-time services. How to evaluate your options A good place to start is with a family discussion to discuss what support your family can provide. And then review the financial implications. As an Accredited Aged Care ProfessionalTM I have helped many clients to make this choice. I help to find a choice that is affordable, as well as works best for the family and protects the value of the estate. This advice is general in nature and everyone’s circumstances are different. So it’s important to speak to someone like myself who is a licenced financial adviser (I am an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232). Call me on 0431 414 799 to discuss how I might help yours or a loved one’s own position.

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

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MONIQUE D AW S O N SUGAR PLUM CAKERY

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

with CATH FOWLER

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

I recently purchased Sugar Plum from an you tell us a little bit Amanda. We had been working together about your business? in the business for 2 years when the We are a little Cakery in opportunity for me to purchase Sugar Coffs Harbour city centre. We have been open in the Plum came about. She has been such an Cinema Walk for 4 years inspiration to me, always pushing me to do and are currently moving to Park Avenue more and supporting me all the way! Lane right next to Salute Espresso. If we’ve It really was an opportunity that doesn’t not moved by the time this goes to print it come around very often so I took the won’t be long off. So plunge! Amanda has check out our socials been such a positive I’m a big believer to know where we influence in my life are. You won’t miss us and business and I in community, not in our new location, am so glad our lives competition. We need just look for the pink! have crossed paths to raise each other up! We offer a variety of again! Little fun fact Operating in the CBD sweets like cupcakes, – we actually were I’ve been able to do this slices, sugar cookies, in Kindy together. and build great macarons and also We have the school relationships with specialise in custom photos together to other local business cakes for every prove it! owners where we can occasion. Have you always all celebrate our What’s your lived on the Coffs businesses success favourite part of the Coast? together. work you do? Yes, I am a born I love it all from and bred Coffs local. the baking to the What’s not to like decorating and serving customers! I love about the place where the mountains meet bringing my creative side out on Fridays for the ocean. I love that we are big and small our biggest cake decorating day! at the same time. With a real sense of Who is your greatest influence in community and so many different places business? to visit that are right on our doorstep. The

city centre is where the heart of Coffs is for me. I love working here and am so proud to be running a small business in Coffs Harbour city centre. What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? I have a few things that I tend to come back to, to guide me as a business owner. I’m a big believer in community, not competition. We need to raise each other up! Operating in the CBD I’ve been able to do this and build great relationships with other local business owners where we can all celebrate our businesses success together. I think it’s so important in a community like ours to know that you can collaborate and grow at the same time. I’d also say that as women in business we can sometimes be a little more critical of ourselves than we should be. So I’d say take chances, and make change. Be flexible and open. And most importantly listen to all that is happening around you and trust your instincts. Where can people find out more about your business? www.sugarplumcakery.com.au @sugarplum_cakery @sugarplumcakerycoffs COFFS COAST

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MEET THE COFFS HARBOUR CITY COUNCILLORS

M AYO R

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We caught up with the NEWLY ELECTED MAYOR OF THE COFFS COAST, Paul Amos.

hat do you hope to bring to the position? I want people to look around them at what is happening in Coffs Harbour and take pride in our area. I want to lead a cohesive Council that is so connected with the community that what we are doing makes sense for building a better Coffs Harbour and we’re being cheered on in our efforts. What are you personally passionate about? Preserving the areas of the Jetty Foreshores that people can enjoy for free regardless of where they live or come from. Enhancing facilities in parks and council amenities that families can use in the area. Getting the basics right with better tip facilities, smarter spending on infrastructure and building opportunities available to those who live here. Making sure that even though the highway will soon bypass us, people do not

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bypass the Coffs Coast when it comes to A long-term plan for the Jetty Foreshores selecting a place to live, work and visit. that reflects the community consultation What do you love about our region? that was clear on no high-rise buildings I think this weekend just passed by overshadowing the parklands. Stop gives a great example with a swim at the shipping our waste to Queensland and beach in the morning, start being a leader a coffee and wander in regional waste through the markets, management. Coffs is big lunch with family, a Open up more enough now for bike ride with mates opportunities and people to have a lot in the afternoon and bring a bigger picture of choice in how they a film festival at Jetty vision for people to want to spend their theatre at night. live, stay and play time, but still enough Coffs is big enough in our area without of a community spirit now for people to destroying the things to make you feel a have a lot of choice that make this a sense of belonging. in how they want special place to live. to spend their time, It’s perhaps a rare but still enough of a occasion for anyone community spirit to make you feel a sense to say that the Mayor is doing a good job, of belonging. It’s a great combination and but if we build positivity towards the hard we need to make sure we continue to work that the Council does in the coming strike this balance. three years, that will be a good enough win What do you hope to achieve in your for me. term as a councillor? Thanks Paul.

SALLY TOWNLEY

hat do I hope to bring to the position? Since I am now the longest-serving Councillor on the current Council, I hope that I will bring experience and a lot of corporate knowledge to the role. Having a strong understanding of the legal framework is so important and I will work to help the newer team members feel prepared for our roles ahead. Personally passionate about? As an environmental scientist, I am passionate about making sure that we protect our biodiversity and our amazing landscapes. All of our community engagement shows the natural environment is top priority for almost everyone. I think Council has taken some important steps in protecting our water quality but studies keep showing alarming levels of pollution. That’s something I want to keep addressing. Love about our region? So many things! We are so fortunate to be in a sweet spot of geography and climate. This not only creates a beautiful setting, it allows a wide rage of food

production. I love seeing the growth of local and regional food producers who take a sustainable approach to their business. I love seeing markets develop for their products and I love being able to eat locally-grown food. I honour the people of the Gumbaynggirr Nation as well as all those who came after and who now walk this land together. Hope to achieve? Having a stable economic foundation is important but I would like to see more investment in social and cultural capital in this term of Council. More footpaths and bike paths to connect places will make healthier happier people. Council has done some great work with community events and I’d love to see us keep building on that. I’d like Council to become more involved in affordable and social housing and develop a strategy for how to do that. And if there is one critical project that needs to set our path for the decades to come, it’s waste management. We have fallen behind on this and need to move into a more responsible long term approach to how we ALL deal with our waste.

RODGER PRYCE

hat do you hope to bring to the position? I hope to be able to share my 45 years of experience, living on the Coffs Coast, including about 1/3rd of that time, living rurally within our LGA. My children both are married living here, they are both in business with their husbands, kids are attending school here. My focus (no pun intended), is to try to give back and make sure that my grandkids’ kids are able to enjoy the amenity which is Coffs Harbour, as my kids did and we did. What are you personally passionate about? I see lots of challenges ahead for our youth, particularly our kids that do not have a high level of support, those who struggle. I would like to see Council become involved in a trainee and apprenticeship program, leading by example. I am passionate about achieving a greater involvement from our community in all things Coffs Harbour, we need to communicate differently, so that everyone

understands, everyone feels a part of the future that Coffs Harbour is going to become. What do you love about our region? If we analysed the reasons as to why most of us moved here, what most of us love about our region, there would be a lot of similar answers. Ensuring that these core values are preserved, whilst catering for an increasing population, tipped to total an extra 30,000 residents by 2040, which is only 18 years away, is a great challenge. This is not only a housing need, it is traffic, sewer, schooling, recreation, health, all of these needs and of course it does not stop there. Resisting these changes is pointless, coming up with a plan that manages this growth is the big challenge. What do you hope to achieve in your term as a councillor? It would be so rewarding if this new Council could bring the community together, focus on projects that benefit the widest sections of the community, from Bonville to Red Rock, Nana Glen to Friday Creek and all places in between. COFFS COAST

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MEET THE COFFS HARBOUR CITY COUNCILLORS

GEORGE CECATO

hat do you hope to bring to the position? I will be the voice of the Business Community and the Conservative thinking individuals. I will bring a balance between Growth and the Environment. I will bring experience, vision and the passion. What are you personally passionate about? I would like to see a boardwalk between the Jetty Pier and the Boat Ramp, at the edge of the ocean, above the Dunes, ensuring that the vegetation above the dunes are not damaged but giving locals and visitors the possibility to enjoy sea views. I would love for the Jetty Foreshores to reach its full potential. For our children and grandchildren to have careers - not just jobs. I would love for Coffs Harbour to be the best Regional City in Australia.

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What do you love about our region? Everything!! Location, natural environment, climate, the diversity of its people and the facilities we have. What do you hope to achieve in your term as a councillor? I would like to have a series of discussions with the Community, Council and Government Agencies regarding an Entertainment Venue and a Regional Athletic Centre and hopefully the wheels of interest and involvement will move forward. I would like to see a dedicated crew to maintain and improve the Jetty Foreshores and I would hope to get my fellows Councillors to support me. That we have an easier Commercial DA application and assessment system. I would hope that the Jetty Strip proposed upgrade and beautification final designs are presented to Council soon and we work together to make it happen.

TEGAN SWAN

hat do you hope to bring to the position? To help our decision makers and community embrace the concept that diversity, different perspectives and competing priorities are strengths. We’re going to disagree and not personally like every decision made. Embracing differences pushes us to create solutions which require more innovation, communication and collaboration to achieve the best outcome. Working towards this means we are creating an inclusive future for our whole community. What are you personally passionate about? Life in general (and dancing!!). Beside that, I’m passionate about people and communities. I love learning from individuals and groups who are change makers. Those breaking down old stereotypes and outdated models, discovering ways to connect and create thriving societies. It’s inspiring to see the shift in people, especially leaders, willing to be vulnerable and authentic in sharing their visions of what’s possible. What do you love about our region? We live in the best place

in the world! (biased, I know #sorrynotsorry). I love that we have the oceans and mountains, we’re a regional centre but made up of individual village charm. We’re unique as we grow and we’re continuing to honour our character. I love the passion people bring to everything, creating and growing events, their own businesses, community projects, meeting challenges head on. We’re a resilient and inventive bunch and it makes me so happy to call this my home. What do you hope to achieve in your term as a councillor? To change the narrative “everyone loves to hate council” and “people will always whinge about what we do”. They are terms I heard far too often in my last term. I don’t believe them to be true, rather an excuse to resist change. We have an incredible council team, both elected members and staff. We are more than capable of creating a reality where our community feel heard and valued. We can work together to rebuild trust. Listening and getting the little things right, we create confidence in us to deliver the big projects and respect for the direction we are moving in together.

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JONATHAN CASSELL

hat do you hope to bring to the position? I intend to bring a next generation perspective to Council on behalf of our community. This term of Council will be challenging on several fronts and a real test for the incoming team if we are to achieve positive outcomes. Some of the challenges we will deal with will be entirely centred on the well being of our community and raises questions such as what can we realistically achieve in terms of helping to ease the housing crisis or protect our waterways from pollution. What are you personally passionate about? I’m passionate about everyday people and the places we love to play. We need to be honest in our dealings with the community and make sure, as a team, we are working together to create outcomes that matter. This may require us having difficult discussions about wealth inequality and the underlying drivers of social displacement that

many members of our community are currently experiencing. What can we all achieve when we work together to deliver on social and environmental goals that benefit everyone in our community? Justice, then, is pretty important to me. What do you love about our region? There’s no doubt I love the health and abundance of nature here on the Coffs Coast but I’m very much aware of the ongoing struggles Gumbaynggirr people have experienced and continue to face at the hands of colonisation. We are blessed to live where the mountains meet the sea and all the adventures we can have. However, there is a huge opportunity for everyone to deepen their love for the Coffs Coast with renewed meaning and connection by incorporating the language, place names and where appropriate, the spiritual ties of the Gumbaynggirr mob into our everyday. It’s an honour to deepen our connection to Country. What do you hope to achieve in your term as a councillor? A more resilient Coffs Harbour.

TONY JUDGE

hat do you hope to bring to the position?

to be active, get outdoors and

Enthusiasm, commitment to our community and long experience in government.

Coast means we have a pretty

What are you personally passionate about? So many things! I want all of us to get the opportunities, support and encouragement to live the best life we can. We all deserve a good start in life, a home to live in and support when we are doing it tough. To get there, we need to reduce inequality and disadvantage. That’s not easy, because it has become so much a part of life, but we won’t get there unless we start really trying. I am also passionate about people working together for a common cause. I believe that we are at our happiest when we take care of each other and really live up to the ideal of being in this together. And I believe we are at a point where we need to take stock of the wonderful natural environment around us, think about where we are going and work to protect our future.

care about others. You only have

What do you love about our region? We live in an incredibly beautiful and diverse natural environment with a perfect climate. It encourages all of us

either directly or with other levels

enjoy the place we live. The relaxed lifestyle on the Coffs relaxed and informal community, but it's also a place where we to look at the number of us who volunteer and get involved in the community to see that. It’s a place to lead a balanced, healthy life. What do you hope to achieve in your term as a councillor? I want to be part of a Council that consciously works together in the best interests of our community. That doesn’t mean always compromising on our positions, but it does mean listening, debating respectfully and being willing to work together. Specifically, I want us to sort out waste management, clean up our waterways and protect the Jetty Foreshore. I want more footpaths, better playgrounds and upgraded swimming pools. I want to see the Cultural and Civic Centre as a hub for our community. I want us to do everything we can to improve access to affordable housing, of government. Finally, I want a Council that operates openly, sees itself as accountable and earns the trust of the Coffs community. COFFS COAST

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MEET THE COFFS HARBOUR CITY COUNCILLORS

JULIE SECHI SCOTT WOLGAMOT

hat do you way that will prove interesting. hope to What do you love about our bring to the region? The great variety within position? such a small geographic area. An open mind and a lot of Wild rivers and great beaches experience. I don’t come in are seldom so close. Plenty of with a fixed position, but ready bush, National Parks, small to learn the details before valleys, small towns. I frequently reaching a decision. Experience mountain bike in surveying, with friends, engineering on trails or in and I don’t come the bush to horticulture, explore areas, in with a experience and one thing fixed position, but on a Council is common ready to learn the Committee when we stop details before previously, to look out reaching a experience – someone decision. in managing comments that projects and we are lucky working to live here. in both large and small What do you hope to achieve organisations. Experience in in your term as a councillor? getting things done. I imagine we all want to leave What are you personally it better than we found it. passionate about? Within the Within a disparate group of nine range of topics we are likely Councillors, that will mean a lot to encounter, I guess the Jetty of different things. We will have Foreshores and the Waste/Tip to work together and I guess issues are foremost. For certain compromise will be the key. there will be surprises along the

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hat would you like to bring to the position? I would like to be a diverse and grounded voice. I know such a broad range of people in the community and most of them care greatly for our city. Invariably, opinions and conversations about improving our region come up. I’d like to be representative of and foster these interactions, especially the ones that start with “wouldn’t it be great if...” What are you personally passionate about? My primary passion and focus is my beautiful, large family; especially my three outstanding sons. I am so privileged that we nearly all live and work within our LGA which enables us to be a big part of each other’s lives. In addition to my family, I’m passionate about living a healthy and active lifestyle especially yoga and meditation. What do you love about our region? My love for our region

began when I was younger. I came to Coffs Harbour to visit my family for an extended holiday. I loved it so much I never left. Being from Victoria, my younger self was in awe of the temperate climate, the beautiful beaches, and warm waters. Furthermore, the area’s picturesque mountains and rainforests gave me the feeling that I was living somewhere truly special. I consciously make an effort to recall that feeling on a regular basis and it comes with ease. What do you hope to achieve in your term as a councillor? The Jetty Foreshores is high on the priority list. Its transformation has been started and we need to keep that ball rolling. This area is such a unique place for the community and I’m excited to do what I can as part of the team, to uplift this already thriving space to accommodate our growing local population and attract tourists to boost the local economy.

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MISSION POSSIBLE MICHAEL DARRAGH

Congratulations on the exciting news that the Link Project attached to the Marian Grove precinct will be operational soon - we chatted to Michael Darragh, the CEO to find out more…

ichael, what is the concept behind the Link Project? At Sawtell Catholic Care (SCC) it’s all about the mission. Our mission is to provide and grow our community of Christian care. ‘We care’ is even our motto. For 30 years we have been providing accommodation and services for the community we care for. Marian Grove has been the flagship of our brand over these years, setting a high standard for retirement living. Twenty years ago, we saw the need to provide extended care and support to the frail aged living in our community, so we launched Mater Christi residential aged care service. Over the years Mater has grown to be recognised as a leading aged care provider in our region, especially strong at supporting people nearing end of life with palliative and hospice care support, as well as dementia care for those developing memory impairment. The environment around which we provide care and support to the people we serve has

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always been our beautiful 40 acres of land at unprecedented lifestyle opportunity in their Toormina/Sawtell. This grove has become a own backyard. This huge 3.6 acre space place of serenity and sanctuary to many over is a garden themed parkland, beautifully the years, affording a relaxing lifestyle away supporting the pursuit of serenity and from the bustle of an ever-busier world. reflection. A place to escape and relax for a In recent years we have witnessed the while. growing need for in-home community care, How will The Link be a benefit to your and the lack of services to support the local residents and others living locally? demand for this type The Link has been of support. So last several years in year we launched development, and This grove has Sawtell Home Care unforeseen in the original become a place as a new service, and vision was the world of serenity and this is quickly growing pandemic situation that sanctuary to many a reputation for would see people living over the years, unconditional kindness under restrictions that affording a relaxing and support, helping greatly impacted their lifestyle away from people waiting for lifestyle and mental the bustle of an everhome care to gain health. The Link could busier world. access to care in a not have come at a timelier fashion. better time to answer this Now we are ready challenge. This garden to launch our latest innovation and support affords our community a wonderful outdoor for our community, The Link. space to walk, sit, relax, enjoy a coffee and Formerly the site of Cockbain’s Nursery tranquillity, the company of friends, or some on Hogbin Drive, the space has been solitude and reflection time if needed. absorbed into our expanded Marian Grove The Link is also there for our broader local village precinct, affording our residents an community as well. It is a space for gathering

Inspired to actively serve our community with Christian compassion, the context creates the need and sharpens our purpose.

and social connection, for intergenerational sharing and enjoyment, and for quiet solace. Sawtell Catholic Care has really expanded over the last few years, with your Stage 7 New Release apartments, Home Care Service and now The Link. How does the future look for your organisation? The bigger picture strategy for SCC as a not-for-profit charity is to ensure our care and services are sustainable, and able to support our community consistently into the future. We cannot do this as an organisation unless we maintain a sound trustworthy business. Inspired to actively serve our community with Christian compassion, the context creates the need and sharpens our purpose. Sound financial and organisational governance have increased our capacity to support this mission, particularly in care and social housing support for those financially and socially disadvantaged. In a challenging and often commercialised world, generations to come will benefit from prudent oversight of this mission focus. Once we get The Link fully operational,

on the horizon for us is developing a new social and affordable housing project to help people in housing crisis; also, an Early Childhood Education Centre,

and new specialised Palliative Care and dementia support suites for Mater Christi. Our mission never stops, its ongoing and we are called to keep nurturing it. Anything is possible when you have the will and commitment from a great team. Thanks Michael.

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Michelle Royce has just been newly appointed as the Operations and Community Engagement Manager overseeing The Link Project, so Focus wanted to know more…

MICHELLE

ROYCE

ongratulations Michelle on your new role, although you are no stranger to Marian Grove, are you? Thank you, I’m no stranger at all, having been part of the Sawtell Catholic Care staff team in various roles for just on 15 years now. What do you hope to bring to the community with The Link Project? I’m looking forward to the time when we’ve finished the preparation and commissioning of The Link site and we can start inviting the community to bring the space to life and make it thrive. The site itself is beautiful but without people it’s just a beautiful, empty garden.

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I’m looking

forward to the We’ll be opening in stages over 2022, time when we’ve and Project Manager with a Grand Opening finished the Steve Laidley along with tentatively scheduled preparation and architect Jim Booth from for later in the year, commissioning of Casa Koala, Landscape around Spring. The Link site and we Designer Claudia Nevell Tell us about the can start inviting the of Garden Expressions, various areas and Interior Designer Lisa community to bring buildings within The Daniel of The Design the space to life and Link area and what Cupboard and our make it thrive. they have to offer? builders FM Glenn have The site itself done a great job putting is modelled after it all together, as have the cast of thousands fabulous community spaces like “The involved in the work. We’ll be thanking them Grounds” in Alexandria and “Camperdown all formally when we have our public opening. Commons” in Camperdown. Our Assets

It’s intended to foster the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of our residents and the wider community through social connection and engagement.

As you enter the site, you pass Reception and The Pavilion, a multifunctional gallery space facing into the garden and opening out onto an amphitheatre lawn. We envisage that this area will host meetings, exhibitions, concerts, and other community gatherings. Straight ahead from the Pavilion is The Potting Shed and Playground area. The Potting Shed is a community gardening space, with raised garden beds partly for the use of our own residents, but we’re also going to work with various groups who will benefit from engaging in this kind of activity. Then of course the Café that so many locals already know will be opened to the public when we find the right tenant/partner and last but by no means least, The Bungalows. These are the original, refurbished mudbrick residences of the former owners, the Cockbain family, and have some wonderful historical

features such as timbers from the old Coffs Jetty. The Bungalows’ point of difference is a fabulous deck area that cantilevers out over the pond – a perfect spot to relax, unwind and watch the wildlife. This space will also be used for various purposes including our day respite program, which is in development now. Sawtell Catholic Care is a large complex, with many lifestyle and home choices, and a strong connection to the local community. How does The Link fit into all of this? The Link increases the lifestyle choices we already offer our Marian Grove and Mater Christi residents, with access to the gardens for events, activities, walking, picnics and spending time with visiting family and friends in a serene, secure environment. They’ll have an easy walk or ride to the Café when it opens and if they choose, they can get their hands in

the soil to make something beautiful grow in the community garden. We’ll be working out just how The Link will fit into the scope of the wider Coffs community over the next 12 months, taking it stage by stage to ensure that it fulfills its wonderful potential as an inclusive hub where people of all ages and abilities can connect with nature, and each other. The Link was designed with accessibility in mind for all visitors, from older people to differently abled, to those living with dementia. It’s intended to foster the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of our residents and the wider community through social connection and engagement. It’s not called “The Link” for nothing! If people want to find out more, they can sign up to our monthly e-news on the Sawtell Catholic Care website www.scca.net.au and they’ll get regular information on our progress. You can also follow us on Instagram @The Link. Thanks Michelle. COFFS COAST

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MAKE 2022 YOUR YEAR OF

Come

Stre ss Fre e

Home to

Marian Grove LIFESTYLE

RETIREMENT LIVING ON THE COFFS COAST

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THE LINK A vibrant intergenerational community space for interacting with nature and each other...

OPENING SPRING 2022

Find out more at www.scca.net.au

Hogbin Drive Toormina NSW LL C THO A

COFFS COAST

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DESIGN

ccent Bath has been a pillar of the Coffs Coast business landscape for more than 30 years. Locally owned and operated, this business has been on a remarkable journey recently. Lead by Business Manager Mathew McKinnon, the amazing team has always valued their customers over anything else, and wants to take you on the journey of their evolution, as they become part of another family-owned business... and launch their new brand. Design 10 is a showroom concept being rolled out by the Independent Hardware Group. It has been created with the idea of providing a space where a customer can get inspiration and make selections with the help of a passionate and knowledgeable team. Each Design 10 can be famous for something different, but ideally it’s a one-stop-shop, with offerings around kitchens, bathrooms, laundries as well as flooring and cladding.

The brand transition is a really exciting opportunity for Accent. We are getting in at the ground floor of this national expansion plan and we are looking forward to being part of the huge potential growth we can see. As we already run a very successful e-commerce platform as part of Accent Bath, we will continue to manage this side of Design 10 from Coffs! Which is a great thing for our local area.

a whole new world of home design. We are

We offer a quality products that are on-trend, functional and affordable. Design 10 will be

personal consultants bring your ideas to life.

introducing kitchens and laundries to our Coffs showroom later in 2022, along with a huge range of kitchen appliances at a reasonable price. We will continue to provide a beautiful selection destination and an inspirational space to help with a vision for your next renovation or build. From the working displays to our vast range of tapware and vanities, it all helps our The best part is? It’s all under one roof.

Previously Accent Bathrooms

Book your design n consultatio today!

Same great team. Same great showroom. Same great product. Same great service P: 02 6652 9322 E: coffsharbour@design10.com.au A: 2/12 Isles Dr, Coffs Harbour

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Colour2022 as an Antidote for P E R R Y

H O M E S

As we reflect on the past two years, WE CAN SEE THAT THE EFFECTS OF COVID-19 have seeped into varying levels of our lives.

e are all spending much more time at home, visiting with family and close friends and looking after our own mental and physical wellbeing. Perry Homes has noticed a shift with the way people engage with their home, particularly when it comes to interior design and colour choices. New Home Consultant Tracey Lavelle commented “In the new post virus world, we can see that colour will play an important role in helping to keep our minds calm, to relax our body and to help maintain our mental wellbeing at home.” Many trend reports predict anxiety, fear and stress as the key drivers to a new trend surfacing called Self-Care. A concept that places greater importance on our overall health, emotional, physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing. Perry Homes has noticed this shift in their clients’ aspirations for their new home. Tracey added “Nature has become a big inspiration when it comes to choosing a colour palette for our clients’ homes. We can create calm and

wellness using colour psychology in our own sanctuary.” In home décor, the shift in colours has very much turned from cool shades to warm natural colours and this is set to grow. The colours that people are now drawn to are soft, earthy, whimsical and warm, and above all they are very easy to live with. We asked Tracey what her favourites are, and here are her tips! “I love the natural pallet of whites blended with blues, greens and pinks. Don’t be afraid of colour in your home,” said Tracey. The New Whites Warmer shades of white are coming back, they are soft off-whites with just a touch of ochre or pink to give them a cocooning effect in our homes, making us feel warm and cosy. Try Dulux Casper White Half, Dulux Natural White or Dulux Beige Artefacts. Balancing Blues Blue is the most universally liked colour. Reflective of the sea and the sky its calming effect on us is quite immediate physically. Blue is also a trustworthy colour, a stable colour and a great one to use to bring calm and peacefulness to our homes. Blues inspire coastal looks so think about blue shades

found in nature for inspiration. Try Dulux Cameo Blue Half, Dulux Blue Shell, Dulux Niche. Calming Greens Green is symbolically the colour of nature and wellbeing. It’s no surprise that blue and green look amazing together in a room, these shades bring the outdoors in, to calm and invigorate us at the same time. Forget the old saying that blues and greens should never be seen, because in nature they are all around us. Try Dulux Powdered Gum, Dulux Herbalist, Dulux Soft Fresco. Perfect Pink We have seen the rise of what has been called ‘Millennial Pink’, now that pink has morphed to a warmer blush pink with a more earthy tone. Part of the desert palette, earthier pinks have a calming effect. The trick to pink is a little goes a long way, so try it as an accent - it pairs beautifully with sage greens, dusty terracotta shades and natural rattan. Try Dulux Yolande, Dulux Pancake Mix, Dulux Maiko. For more inspiration, visit one of Perry Homes display homes today or contact Tracey on 0434 499 829 or tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au 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

There are real estate investing “tricks” and techniques that you may know, or want to know. There are new ways of doing things that are worth learning.

nowing about the latest types of financing is another way can also help. Before all of these, however, you need to learn some basic principles. Here are six of them. 1. Build relationships. 2. Understand the numbers. 3. Reduce risk. 4. Be prepared. 5. Set goals. 6. Learn, and apply what you learn. Real Estate Investing Principles 1. Real estate investing is about relationships. People are your most valuable resource, and the more of them you know, the more likely you are to find good properties to buy, or buyers for your properties. Ask people for their names, and if your memory is poor, take notes. Know the right people too, including a real estate agent who gets many listings of the type you are interested in. Wouldn’t it be nice if you were the one he/she called first? Talk to the agent, develop a rapport. Ensure that you are on their database and email lists for new properties and/or property news. 2. Know and understand the relevant numbers. When you look at a rental property, for example, you should be thinking about the income, the expenses, and the capitalization rate, or “cap rate.” Imagine how certain changes would allow 142 COFFS COAST

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you to raise the income, and what that and sometimes even good deals. Be would do to the value. prepared. A “feeling” about a property, without 5. Create action-oriented goals, not just understanding the numbers, gets many wishes. For example, require yourself to investors into trouble. Remember too that look at a certain number of properties per things can go wrong and repairs may have week, and maybe even to write a certain to be made, take this into account. Also if number of offers each month. Set goals for it’s a strata property, remember there are all sorts of little steps, like making six phone levies to be paid in the future as well as calls per week, checking online listings twice council rates. per week, and so on. 3. Look for and use Action creates methods to reduce momentum. Repeated Sometimes, risk. Have inspections, action creates habits, when you financing, and other and good habits lead mention that you clauses in the offer, to more successful invest in real estate, or contingent on it so real estate investing. sellers, buyers and you’ll get your deposit Above all always look back when a deal falls other investors for opportunity, but be through. suddenly appear ruled by your head not Consider your with information, your heart. exit strategy before opinions, and 6. Keep getting you buy, and have sometimes even educated, and using a “plan B.” Value good deals. that education. real estate using Learning more from comparables or cap books, magazines and rates, not “hunches.” If even podcasts are a great idea, as long as borrowing, the bank will normally insist on a you spend as much time doing something as valuation to ensure you are not overpaying. reading about it. 4. Be prepared for real estate investing. Some of us let the interest and enjoyment You never know when you’ll see a property of reading about investing get in the way for sale, or hear about one. Sometimes, of actually investing. Good information is when you mention that you invest in real crucial, but it should lead to good real estate estate, sellers, buyers and other investors suddenly appear with information, opinions, investing.

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Coffs Coast Focus - i134

Articles inside

Talking Destination - Fiona Barden

Style Edit - Melissa Parisi

PFLAG - Sam Dawson

Women in Business - Cath Fowler

Money Matters - Tanya Howe

Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas

Education Update - Nick Johnstone