Coffs Coast Focus - i137 by Focus

issue

137 JUNE 2022

GREG B U L L

PHIL

GRACE

BLUE RIBBON HOMES

Transforming healthcare in Coffs Harbour Southern Cross University will provide state-of-the-art health services to Coffs Harbour, with a $27.5m federal funding commitment to complete stage 2 of the Health Services Precinct at the Hogbin Drive campus. The precinct will include a community health clinic with speech and voice labs, mental health and therapy rooms, rehabilitation and exercise studios and consultation rooms. The Coffs Harbour Health Precinct will also provide clinical placements for students, housing state-of-the-art laboratories and teaching facilities in bioscience, anatomy, physiology and chemistry and simulation labs to support STEM degrees. Join a university that’s transforming tomorrow. Applications are now open to start in July.

scu.edu.au

CRICOS Provider: 01241G

4 COFFS COAST

focus

Artist’s impression

COFFS COAST

focus

Stressless® Mary Powered Sofa with Stressless® Mayfair PowerLeg&Back Recliner Stressless ® Wing Recliner

20% oﬀ Stressless * ®

Come and feel the comfort *Available for a strictly limited time. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer, applies to Stressless Total Collection. Excludes already discounted models.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS MADE IN NORWAY

Beatties

6 COFFS COAST

focus

Quality Furniture

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

www.beattiesfurniture.com.au

BEACHSTONE S U N DAYS

LIVE MUSIC FROM 4PM

BOOK YOU R W EDDING, E V ENT OR F UNC TION W ITH US events@stefbeachstone.com.au

PH 6699 2623

OPEN

2 B E A C H WAY, S A P P H I R E B E A C H

BREAKFAST

@stefbeachstone email mail@stefbeachstone.com.au

FOR &

LUNCH

from Wednesday to Sunday from 7:15 am

ice v d a dly “Frien the faces from know...” you

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

8 COFFS COAST

focus

The San Marino Manor 16 l On display at Moonee Beach.

Get started on your dream home today. Right now, you can save thousands and build a brand new home in the location you love. Discover how easy it is to get started with your free quote and complimentary site inspection. Visit our Coffs Harbour team today and discover your dream home. Open 10am – 5pm | 2 Beechwood Place, Moonee Beach

1300 555 382

mcdonaldjoneshomes.com.au NSW: McDonald Jones Homes Pty Ltd ABN 82 003 687 232 – NSW BLN: 41628 T/A McDonald Jones Homes - NSW Architect Reg No. 4234. © McDonald Jones Homes Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. *Conditions apply see website for more details.

COFFS COAST

focus

contents I S S U E

1 3 7

J U N E

2 0 2 2

INTERVIEWS

AVIRIDA - BEC & JACK

Bec & Jack started Avirida skincare to be environmentally sustainable. They make their products and unique packaging in Dorrigo, and plant a tree for every product sold!

MELANIE WAUGH

Melanie Waugh is an exceptional local artist who captures the beauty of our natural surroundings with a fresh and vibrant feeling that is completely unique to her.

MATISSE HIBBARD

Born to perform, Matisse Hibbard is a committed and passionate dancer. Now at 18 she is pursuing her dreams and working towards creating a career in the performing arts.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 22. PFLAG - Sam Dawson 24. Style Edit - Melissa Parisi 58. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 63. Talking Destination - Fiona Barden CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

VANESSA SIMPSON

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

64. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 86. Physio Update - Aaron Hardaker 92. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 100. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 102. Youth Leaders - Cassandra Wilson

108. Buying Property - Vanessa Simpson 118. Real Estate - Chris Hines

Thank you for your contribution to focus Follow us on

10 COFFS COAST

focus

facebook.com/coffscoastFocus

focusmag.com.au

THE ALL - NEW LEXUS NX FEEL MORE IN EVERY MOMENT WELCOME YOUR EVERY SENSE — to the all-new Lexus NX. With striking new looks and thoughtful technology, the NX has been crafted for exhilaration. Available in petrol, Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid for the ultimate flexibility and fuel efficiency of petrol and electric seamlessly working together. Inside, be immersed in a cabin that feels like an extension of you. With a digital rearview mirror for parking assistance *, 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display *, voice activation, and amazing safety features such as the intuitive e-Latch and Safe Exit Assist *, designed for the unexpected. Book a test drive today.

LE XUS NX

UNL IMITED KMS WAR R ANTY

LEXUS OF PORT MACQUARIE | 10 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie | PH 02 6583 9122 | www.lexusofportmacquarie.com.au

Overseas model shown. Australian specifications and features may vary. please contact your local Lexus Dealer for details. Available on NX 350 Sports Luxury & F Sport + EP 2, NX 350h Sports Luxury & F Sport + EP 2 & NX 450h+ models. Driver assist feature. Only operates under certain conditions. Check your Owner’s Manual for explanation of limitations. Please drive safely.

COFFS COAST

focus

focus_team note

from the

Welcome to the JUNE 2022 EDITION.

nother month, another fabulous jam packed edition! Thank you to all of our supporters, contributors, advertisers who we are blessed to work with each day. We love what we do here at FOCUS; we have so much fun along the way and we hope that this reflects in our epic 120 page edition! Thank you to all that connect with us. Whether you read the printed copy or online, you interact with us directly, it’s each of you that encourages us to work hard to bring you this great publication. We are extremely proud to be part of this small team. We are passionate about bringing you great local stories introducing you to people who are making a difference in the community. We also pride ourselves on getting

focus

our advertisers “results”. We don’t just want advertisers to buy an advertisement – we want to be part of marketing solution. We do thrive on bringing you great content, but we’re also in the business of growing your business! On the cover Greg Bull and Phil Grace are the owners of Blue Ribbon Homes, a locally owned home builder based in Coffs Harbour. They are a long established reputable builder that has been proudly building beautiful quality homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 3 decades. To celebrate the success of local businesses we present a showcase of business powerhouses that have been trading for over a decade. This feature is always a great read and it recognises businesses that have grown and succeeded over the past decade or longer.

COFFS COAST

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

contacts.

Inside this edition Vanessa Simpson has many years’ experience as a real estate agent working both here in Australia and in the US, where she enjoyed the model of representing either the buyer or the seller, rather than both, to give them the best possible representation. She started Beach Or Bush Exclusive Buyers’ Agents here on the Mid North Coast to give buyers a helping hand in navigating what is usually the biggest purchase of their lives. Stacey Warwick and Sam Phillips started DisAbility Dinner & Dance to bring people together, build social connections, and empower those living with disabilities. Melanie Waugh is an exceptional local artist who captures the beauty of our natural surroundings with a fresh and vibrant feeling that is completely unique to her.

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 2022 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.

12 COFFS COAST

focus

OZ DESIGN FURNITURE COFFS HARBOUR

A U S T R A L I A N O W N E D & O P E R AT E D 13 COFFS COAST

focus

focus_interview

S S

e o

e m

Y e

n a t i o n a l

14 COFFS COAST

focus

o e

u r

t o u r

Amy Shark is heading to a huge list of regional venues on her current See You

Somewhere national tour, and will be performing at the C.ex in Coffs Harbour on Friday 24th June! So we

had a chat with her ahead of the show to get all the details.

i Amy. Your See You There is no process for me really, just pick Somewhere tour is up the guitar and play. The main thing is to a huge one covering be fearless and let words come out even if many regional areas. they hurt you or scare you. What do you enjoy Where do you tend to draw a lot of about getting out into inspiration from? these parts of the country? I draw inspo from many things in my I haven’t been to many of these places own life, memories from the past, certain before, so to be able to travel all around real-life characters, and current drama that Australia while playing music to so many I’m experiencing. different towns is a dream. Adam Newling will be supporting you You’ve just finished a national arena here in NSW, can you tell us a bit about tour, what made you decide to cover him and some of the other supporting lots of smaller venues this time? artists on this tour? I actually enjoy being on tour. It’s a lot I never invite someone to support me more structured than my days at home and if I don’t love their music, so everyone I tend to write more who is jumping on music while being support spots for this on the road. Also, I tour I am loving right I love writing spent years playing now. I am excited to songs so I’m to nobody so small see Cult Romance always strumming venues don’t scare perform. He’s a fellow away and I FIND IT me. I actually think Gold Coaster and so WAY MORE FUN they’re more fun! insanely talented! How do you prepare I love Yorke, she WRITING WHILE yourself for these supported me not I’M ON THE ROAD. long tours? that long ago and she For some reason Well to be honest I sounded incredible. the exciting chaos don’t really do much I obviously fell in of touring inspires “preparing” I just try love with Adam’s me. to stay as healthy as song Blackbird and I possible, I restock on thought wow I’d love hair spray and black to hear him sing that jeans and then I’m ready to roll. live for a few nights! You are a songwriter as well, are What can people expect from this you always working on new songs show? or do you prefer to separate time to They can expect to never see another write and create new music from time show like this one in their hometown EVER performing and touring? again! I promise you that. I love writing songs so I’m always Thanks Amy! strumming away and I find it way more fun writing while I’m on the road. For See Amy at C.ex Coffs Harbour some reason the exciting chaos of touring FRIDAY 24 JUNE @ 7:30PM inspires me. What is your process like for creating Tickets cex.com.au/event/amy-shark/ music?

COFFS COAST

focus

Read P L AY listen WAT C H WITH NICCI SECCOMBE

Tell Me Why: The Story of My Life and My Music by Archie Roach

READ

Roach, an iconic Australian singer-songwriter, was just 2 years old when he was forcibly removed from his family as part of Australia’s Stolen Generation. In his best-selling memoir, Roach explains how the power of music spurred him through trauma and helped him find culture and connection to country.

WATCH

The Wilds Teenage girls from radically different backgrounds find themselves stranded on a remote island, unaware they’ve just become the subjects of an elaborate social experiment.

Kendrick Lamar Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

PLAY We’re Not Really Strangers We’re Not Really Strangers is a purpose driven card game and movement all about empowering meaningful connections. Three carefully crafted levels of questions and wildcards that allow you to deepen your existing relationships as well as create new ones. There are two ways to play: 1-Play safe. 2-Play to grow. The second is how you win. This game is optimised for 2 players (ages 12 and up); however, you can play this 16 COFFS COAST

focus

LISTEN

game with up to 6 people. It comes with 2 pencils, WNRS notepad, 2 transparent Dig Deeper cards, 150 questions and wildcards. Warning: Feelings May Arise.

On his fifth album, Kendrick retreats from the limelight and turns to himself, highlighting his insecurities and beliefs. It’s ambitious, impressive, and a bit unwieldy. Kendrick Lamar is a giddy dramatist. He loves to pack his music with perspectives, personifying his many characters and muses with distinct voices, cadences, and beat switches that bring them to life. Those virtuosic tics have made him one of rap’s most celebrated storytellers and stylists; he is the first and only rapper to have won a Pulitzer Prize.

OPEN FRIDAY & SATURD AY

COFFS COAST

focus

EMERALD BEACH FAIR

Emerald Beach Fair takes place at one of the most stunning surf, fishing & family friendly beaches anywhere on the East Coast. The Fair will feature local artisan markets, family events, cultural activities and an amazing program of live music all set on the nature reserve overlooking the beach with local food and drinks nearby. When 4th June Where Emerald Beach Time 8.30am until 9pm

CRITTERS DISTILLERY TASTING EXPERIENCE

Critters Distillery is so excited to be offering you a unique artisan spirits experience. You will see how the distillery operates, meet their head distiller and sample a range of cocktails and mixers expertly paired with an Australian antipasto grazing plate. All served by your very own bartender, as part of the North Coast Festival of Flavour. When 4th June Where 24 Hawke Drive, Unit 3, Woolgoolga Time 2pm until 4pm 18 COFFS COAST

J U N E

focus

2 0 2 2

THE WINTER SOLSTICE The Winter Solstice will be a day where the whole community can come together to celebrate the shortest day and longest night in the year. We will endeavor to create an “old-world fair on the green” type day, one filled with old fashioned games such as tug-of-war, sack races, beanbag toss, spin the wheel etc. We will have jumping castles for the kids, live music, belly dancers, pipe band, drummers, jugglers, fire twirlers including market and food stalls. When 18th June Where Boambee East Community Centre Time 2pm until 9pm

ALL ONE UNDER THE SUN

A year-long youth arts project that will support young people from diverse backgrounds to build resilience, and stand up against racism, using a platform of youth-led, arts-based messaging, community volunteer engagement activities and community events. When 19th June Where Coffs Botanic Gardens Time 9:30am until 2:30pm

GOLD COAST TITANS VS CRONULLA SHARKS With the Coffs Coast firmly on the radar of elite national sports teams and competitions of all types, local and visiting NRL fans are excited for the return of the Cronulla Sharks and Gold Coast Titans. After a brilliant night of football last year fans are keen for a repeat match. When 18th June Time 3pm Where C.ex International Stadium Tickets via Ticketek

DAVID STRASSMAN

From London to New York, David Strassman’s comic genius has shocked and surprised. Now it’s your turn to experience Strassman’s uproarious comedy with those infamous favourites, the loveable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood. When Saturday 25th June Time 7:00pm Where C.ex

SNEAKER LOUNGE SNEAKER LOUNGE NIKE NIKE ADIDAS ADIDAS PUMA PUMA NEW BALANCE NEW BALANCE REEBOK REEBOK ASICS ASICS LACOSTE LACOSTE CONVERSE CONVERSE VANS VANS DR. MARTENS TIMBERLAND DR. MARTENS STANCE TIMBERLAND G-SHOCK STANCE JASON MARKK G-SHOCK CREP JASON MARKK

CREP

ONLINE / IN STORE / PARK BEACH PLAZA COFFS COAST

focus

ONLINE / IN STORE / PARK BEACH PLAZA

focus_interview

B E C

J A C K

Bec Buchanan and her husband Jack started their skincare brand Avirida with a clear goal of keeping the business not only environmentally sustainable but they wanted it to allow them to have a positive impact on the earth too. They make all their products and unique packaging in their beautiful hometown of Dorrigo, and they plant trees for every single product sold!

i Bec. When did you first start Avirida and where did the idea come from? Avirida was born out of a combination of my and my partner Jack’s skills. I had been making my own skincare products at home for a long time in order to avoid plastic packaging and the harmful ingredients that store-bought products can contain. When we decided to start selling my products, we spent 20 COFFS COAST

focus

a lot of time looking into packaging options. We try to live a low-waste lifestyle as much as possible, so we did not want to use plastic tubs or glass tubs with plastic lids. Glass and aluminium are better options than plastic as they are more likely to get recycled, however they still use huge amounts of energy to produce and then to recycle. Then we thought about timber, as Jack’s father is a woodworker and he has experience and knowledge of woodwork. Timber has a full life cycle without massive

amounts of energy being put into its production and end-of-life disposal. Of course, we source our timber from storm damaged logs, recycled timber or weed species in our local area. We’re never involved with logging operations. What were some of the first steps in getting this business up and running? We decided we would be making our own packaging, right here in Dorrigo. Importing packaging from overseas would defeat the purpose of sustainability as there is a huge ecological footprint to transport. This meant that we would need to purchase the machinery and the ingredients required to produce both the packaging and the skincare products ourselves, and rent premises to put it all in. While we had some savings to start with, this ambitious project would need a lot more than we had. So we decided to do a Kickstarter fundraising campaign, and raised our goal of $15,000 with pre-sales. This allowed us to purchase a few key machines and get started on testing and fine tuning our production. We then did local markets in Dorrigo, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Kempsey until Covid hit and we moved our business 100% online. Sustainability is a huge part of your business, can you describe your unique packaging and how it is made? We handle every process with our packaging,

from finding salvaged logs from properties in our area, to milling them up, drying the timber using a solar-powered kiln, then machining and hand finishing. We usually use Camphor Laurel which is a Chinese species of tree that was introduced and has gone rampant in our local area, choking up riverbanks and preventing native trees from growing. Camphor Laurel trees are usually chopped down and burnt in bonfires by farmers, but we salvage them where we can and give them a second life through our beautiful pots. We finish our pots with a natural vegetable oil, so there are no lacquers or artificial chemicals on them. This means they are fully compostable at the end of their life, and not just in an industrial composting facility but home compost too. You guys also plant native trees for each of your products sold, how does that work and what was the idea behind it? For every single product we sell (not per order but per product in every order) we donate to Trees For the Future to plant a tree. It is a brilliant organisation that not only plants trees but trains communities on sustainable land use, so they can grow vibrant economies, thriving food systems, and a healthier planet. We also separately plant 3 native trees ourselves in our local area for every salvaged log we use. We focus on not just not having a negative impact, but actively having a positive impact on the environment through our business. What other ways do you make your business more environmentally sustainable? We make our own cardboard shipping boxes from discarded supermarket and cafe cardboard.

We focus on not We laser-cut a box shape just not having out of this cardboard overcome, like making sure and use it for posting a negative impact, the product doesn’t seep our orders, which but actively having a into the wood, putting an removes the need for the positive impact on the appropriate seal inside the long process of being environment through lids, making sure our threads transported to a facility our business. are machined exactly (likely overseas), being right for the pots to close turned into pulp using perfectly every time, and so chemicals, turned back into paper/cardboard, on. It took almost a full year of planning, trial then being transported for sale again. We also and error to get everything right, and we still make our own natural glue using cornstarch, work on improving our processes every single glucose syrup and tea tree oil, so when we glue day. on our shipping labels (which are printed on What do you enjoy about working as a scrap paper from local schools) the entire box, team with your husband Jack? label and the pots themselves can all go in the It can be difficult to work together all day compost! and live together too, but Jack and I have our Can you tell us a bit about the products you separate tasks and responsibilities throughout make and what goes into them? the day, so we mostly do our own thing, and Our skincare products are all handmade and get together to debrief and plan at the end of contain only plant extracts, butters and natural the day. We love being able to have our golden waxes. We don’t use any artificial preservatives, retriever Luna with us at our factory all day, she synthetic fragrances, emulsifiers, preservatives loves hanging out with us. or palm oil. Our cruelty-free range uses certified What are some of your goals for the future? organic ingredients and essential oils. We have We’re planning to release new products, recently won Gold and Editor’s Pick at the Clean expand internationally and provide employment & Conscious Awards 2021. Our range includes opportunities in our town. It’s been a difficult a mud & clay face mask, a 2-in-1 eye cream couple of years with the floods, road closures and face moisturiser, a hemp body balm, a and pandemic, but we’re optimistic! magnesium-based deodorant, and lip balms. Where can people learn more about your What is the process like from having a new brand and your journey? idea to turning it into a finished product? There’s lots of information on our website It’s long! Essentially, we created something www.avirida.com and you can also follow our brand new in using timber as a skincare journey on Instagram @avirida_green :) container. There were many challenges to COFFS COAST

focus

focus_contributor.

PFLAG with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

or the month of June I thought I would change it up! Our group meetings have been harder to coordinate with isolation around Covid so I thought it would be great to focus on advocacy and awareness campaigns, hence a chat/presentation to a seniors group and signing up for the Push-Up challenge this month. Margaret Bridgeman (an amazing individual) from Boambee East Community Centre invited me to attend her Seniors Group to chat about the PFLAG group here in Coffs. I embraced this opportunity, as I believe education is key to changing people’s perceptions and opinions. I came from the angle of being the mother of a gay son, my husband’s attitude from growing up with prejudice and then absolutely, unequivocally adoring his own son with no judgement or barriers at all. I covered being a marriage celebrant at the forefront here in the Marriage Equality debate and as an Ally for the LGBTIQAP+ community with my monthly article here in Focus Magazine with education articles as well as interviews with parents. I invited questions from the interested

22 COFFS COAST

focus

crowd, remembering they have been around to see in their lifetime how being gay was illegal and the attitudes changing and evolving. With one question I was able to answer that unless you are in a marginalised group then its hard to imagine what it’s like to actually step outside your door everyday wondering if today is the day you don’t feel safe physically and psychologically. I gave examples personally of what I have witnessed.

interested, like to give back or simply help

We discussed acronyms and pronouns and dispelled fears around this and possibly offending people within our LGBTIQAP+ community, and said it’s as simple as just asking if worried how to address individuals.

mental health. It all kicks off on June 1st.

I was pleased to say that this was well received with Margaret saying “Thank you so much for addressing our Seniors group this morning. Thank you for enlightening us. Changing people’s misconceptions. It may not happen overnight but it will happen.”

know more.

We also discussed Lifeline North Coast and the role they play in helping our LGBTIQAP+ community and invited this group to consider volunteering in the Op Shops or Telephone Crisis Supporter or support with fundraising and special events. Every dollar supports the great work they do. If you are

out please contact Lifeline 13 11 44. This month we are also shining a light on suicide which unfortunately is a harsh reality in our community. I invite anyone who would like to join our team called “Push-Up Pride Coffs Harbour”. The Push-Up Challenge has participants completing 3,139 push-ups in total over 24 days to raise awareness and funds for It’s free to take part and there’s a sweet app where you can check on how myself and others are progressing during the event. Call me on 0417 861 045 if you wold like to To get involved, create or join a Team (MINE please!) check out our Community Page https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/ fundraisers/pushuppridecoffsharbour It would be great to have you taking part in the push for better mental health! PFLAG is here to give help, support and information to families and friends of all gay people right here on the Coffs Coast. pflagcoffscoast.com PFLAGcoffcoast

0417 861 045

10% OFF OUR BEST PRICE FOR A 2 NIGHT OR MORE STAY.

Call direct 0477 779 343, or book on our website www.charlesworthbaybeachresort.com.au and use promo code “focus”

Cnr Bay Drive and Resort Drive Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Australia p

0477 779 343

bookings@charlesworthbaybeachresort.com.au

www.charlesworthbaybeachresort.com.au

Photo: Amalfi Coffs Harbour, Coffs Coast Accommodation

focus_contributor.

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

T R A NSFO R M YO UR HO M E FO R WIN TE R

ith winter fast approaching and more rain than we would care to mention, coastal style interiors may be starting to feel a little too summery for cooler temperatures. No matter your style, here are my top tips to transform your home into a cosy space for the winter months. Rearrange your furniture for gatherings Even if it’s cold outside an easy way to make your interiors feel warm and cosy is to group seating closer together, this also helps to facilitate warm and intimate conversation. Rather than having furniture lined up against walls, pulling furniture away from walls helps to create a feeling of space and lightness plus helps mitigate the effects of cold drafts in cooler months. Create a cosy corner Corners of your room without furniture can look especially bleak during winter. To brighten up a space, create an inviting vignette or reading nook. Use a comfortable chair, side-table, reading lamp, blanket, cushions and ottoman to create a snug retreat. Add luxe cushions and throws To soften and warm living rooms and bedrooms instantly, layer cushions, pillows, throws and blankets. To introduce an instant comfort hit, choose textured fabrics such as soft velvet, lush sheepskin or faux fur and cashmere. Consider switching light coastal colours with deep, rich colours such as navy, burnt orange and forest green. Introduce more texture, warmth and interest through 24 COFFS COAST

focus

luxurious rugs, wall hangings, baskets and ottomans. Use area rugs To avoid the discomfort of bare feet on a cold floor, cover up uncarpeted areas of your home with plush rugs. If you have floorboards or tiles in your bedroom, use a carpet runner beside your bed. Purchase carpet runners for hallways, bath runners for bathrooms and large rugs for family rooms. Consider transforming an outdoor space with an outdoor rug. Convert to softer lighting Converting to softer lighting will help create a warmer environment to relax in (plus make you look more attractive!) Switch out high lumen cool white light globes for warm light LED globes. Create atmosphere and ambience by purchasing table lamps or floor lamps with paper or linen shades to softly diffuse light. Use candles to create a beautiful ambience, consider using fragranced candles for an extra sensory dimension with warming aromas such as sandalwood, fig, rosewood and orange. Invest in a portable fireplace If you don’t have a built-in fireplace, adding a portable ethanol burning fireplace to a room or outdoor space is an easy way to instantly add style and cosiness. Ethanol is recycled and clean-burning, meaning there are no dangerous fumes. If you don’t want to go to the expense, a simple grouping of candles on a coffee table or buffet adds beautiful light to a room. Add indoor plants Adding greenery to your home in winter can help to liven the space. In winter, indoor

plants are even easier to look after, as they’ll require less water and maintenance than usual. Easy-care plants with lustrous green foliage such as Monstera Deliciosa look wonderful in large wicker baskets. Upgrade your curtains Sheer curtains that keep your home bathed in natural light during summer may not insulate your windows sufficiently in cooler months. Avoid drafts and keep your home feeling warm by switching to heavier fabric drapes in deep tones to instantly add physical and psychological warmth to your room. Consider adding curtains to outdoor spaces like balconies, verandas or gazebos to create an elegant, cosy outdoor room for entertaining. Use plush towels A plush bath towel is one of life’s simple pleasures! Upgrade your bathroom to include plush bath towels and a luxuriously large bath mat so that stepping out of the shower is a pleasurable experience. Keep slippers handy Keep yourself and your feet cosy by having plenty of slippers in the house. Keep slippers by your bed, wardrobe and bathroom so there is always a pair to wear. Having several new pairs in the cupboard for your guests is also a lovely touch to make guests feel warm and welcome. With these tips you’ll be able to create a warm and cosy atmosphere in your home and make the most of the cooler months in a space that’s enjoyable and relaxing. 0449 17 18 17 Melissa@holidayhomestylist.com.au holidayhomestylist.com.au holidayhomestylist

FOL OW US

P Email: enrolm 111 North Boambee Road, Coff

SENIOR STUDENTS Years 9, 10 and 11

TAKE YOUR EDUCATION TO THE NEXT LEVEL Your future, your way Career pathways

Wellbeing guidance and support Teacher mentoring through HSC Leadership opportunities ATAR focus

Access to Apprenticeships + Traineeships Early entry to HSC

111 North Boa

Extension courses in Mathematics, Science, English, History +

Accelerated HSC courses

Early entry options to University

BOOK A SENIOR LIFE TOUR Call (02) 6651 5644

Experience the excelsior journey

www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

Phone: (02) 6651 5644 Email: enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au 111 North Boambee Road, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450

focus

BEACH OR BUSH

EXCLUSIVE BUYERS AGENTS

26 COFFS COAST

focus

DINING GUIDE

COVER DISH Tasty treats Stef Beachstone

from

COFFS COAST

focus

SAWTELL HOTEL PROUD SPONSOR of the

2022

nown for our delicious food, friendly staff and relaxed vibe, so pop in for a cold one after the festival winds up on July 2nd.

The Sawtell Hotel was opened in 1931. The hotel is situated in the beachside village of Sawtell which is located 8km south of Coffs Harbour on the Mid North Coast of NSW. The friendly atmosphere in the hotel reflects the laid-back lifestyle and is one of the many reasons visitors come from all over to enjoy all that the hotel has to offer.

28 COFFS COAST

focus

Justin, Sawtell Hotel has renovated accommodation – what types of rooms do you have and what is included? With the new renovations upstairs comes new layouts to almost all our rooms, we have a variety of rooms to accommodate all different travellers. All our rooms can access our large deck that looks over the beautiful main street of Sawtell. Sawtell Hotel has so much to offer – can you tell us more? The Sawtell Hotel is in the heart of the main street of Sawtell,

with our venue open from 10am and our kitchen open from 12pm-9pm we will always have something for you whether it’s a nice cold beer on the deck or it’s one of our awesome fresh fish special from our specials board. You are within walking distance to some of Sawtell’s most beautiful shops, cafes and restaurants as well as a just a quick twominute walk to Sawtell Main Beach. Sawtell Chillifest Saturday 2nd July 2022, from 9am.

Accepted b

at selected stores

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

Check with individual stores for trading hours.

COFFS COAST

focus

The life of a tribute band can be full of ups and downs, but one band has taken the concept to a whole new level in Australia.

DREAMS SAWTELL RSL

TRIBUTE SHOW

ecoming a major attraction in their own right, they consistently pull bigger crowds than most of the bigger name touring acts who have played the pubs and clubs for decades. DREAMS from Brisbane and Gold Coast pays tribute to one of the world’s bestselling bands of all time – Fleetwood Mac – and to the solo career of their leading lady, Stevie Nicks. Formed on the Gold Coast just a few short years ago, this act has now become the pre-eminent Fleetwood Mac and Steve Nicks tribute in Australia, thanks to their relentless touring schedule and meticulous attention to detail. The music, the song choice, their presentation and dedication to the public have won them a legion of fans all up and down the east coast of Australia, working

30 COFFS COAST

focus

from Cairns to Melbourne. They play all the

“Everyone has an opinion about tribute bands

big hits of both artists in a massive two and a

but this one consistently packs out venues

half hour show that has the audience on the

and I cannot fault them,” said John Logan,

floor from first song. For the past three years,

promoter and agent, this week. “Having seen

they have played consistently on the east coast

hundreds of bands over many years, I reckon I

doing hundreds of shows every year. Now, for

am a fair judge, and these guys are one of the

the first time in July this year, they will spread

best,” he added.

their wings and venture to WA to show them

Dreams will play at Sawtell RSL on June 25.

what all the fuss is about.

Punters are advised to book early.

COFFS COAST

focus

32 COFFS COAST

focus

R O S S

NOBLE Science has proved laughter can induce a Zen-like state similar to meditation but can contemplation, reflection and selfdiscovery be achieved by thinking every and all the thoughts at once? Nobody knows or cares but let’s hope so because Ross is always on the go and will be smashing ideas together in the pursuit of fun. When it happens you can be there. WARNING: Ross is not a scientist. When 27th & 28th June Where Jetty Theatre Tickets $54.90

Melbourne

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

COMEDY

Festival

ROADSHOW $25 redeemable Monday to Sunday Terms and conditions apply

Strap yourself in Australia! The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is hitting the highways to homedeliver the freshest and funniest from the 2022 Festival to neighbourhoods across the nation. For 24 years the Roadshow has presented an all killer, no filler line-up of Australian stars and talented newcomers to comedy fans far and wide. Buckle up for a night of stand-up, sketch, satire, silliness and song in this rip-roaring road trip designed to satisfy all your post-pandemic comedy cravings! When 15th & 16th June Where Jetty Theatre Tickets Adults $55, Conc $52 COFFS COAST

focus

N A T I O N A L

CARTOON GALLERY

WHEN YOU VISIT THE NATIONAL CARTOON GALLERY YOU WILL GO ON AN ARTS & CULTURE JOURNEY LIKE NO OTHER!

ou will experience ARTS with Attitude and audacity, that Responds to the real issues, tackling the Truth and salient Stories, sagacious, silly, sad or serious.

You will experience CULTURE, cartoons, comics and caricatures, with Comedy and curiosity that Unforgivingly unravels the unbelievable, making you Laugh at life or the lies we are fed, that are Thought provoking, tantalising talking points that tempt us to tears or tell us about the Uniquely unacknowledged understories they Reveal, reframe or remind us of the causality and casualties of life, taking us on an Engrossing emotional rollercoaster, and leaving us feeling more emboldened, embarrassed, empathetic or elated.

34 COFFS COAST

focus

The National Cartoon Gallery is one Do you want to party with a difference, celebrate your wedding or event with wit and of a kind. It is Australia’s only Cartoon style – then we have it. Our cartoons provide a Gallery exhibiting the largest collection of great backdrop for any event. Bring your tribe, contemporary cartoons in the Southern bring the music and we can provide the place Hemisphere and is a great addition to the and the catering to Arts and Culture scene in blow your tastebuds Coffs Harbour. It is Australia’s and have your party only Cartoon We hold over 24,000 go off with a bang! cartoons from leading Gallery exhibiting the Australian and largest collection of international cartoonists contemporary that provide a varied cartoons in the curated program of Southern Hemisphere funny, thought provoking and is a great addition and irreverent cartoon to the Arts and exhibitions, as well as Culture scene in Coffs hosting comic exhibitions, Harbour. cartooning and animation workshops with talented local cartoonists and comic makers, animation films and classic film nights on large screens, music nights and much more.

If you enjoy your arts & culture with a twist,

shaken and not stirred, the National Cartoon Gallery is the place to visit – a safe place for unsafe discussions and a place to have fun and play. An incomparable arts & culture experience you won’t forget. Visit us at 1 John Champion Way, Coffs Harbour Open Tues - Sun | 10am - 4pm 02 6651 7343 nationalcartoongallery.com.au

And for culture with a capital C, where else would you find a gallery housed in an authentic underground WWII Bunker but Coffs Harbour. We have brought our history into today with an amazing new upstairs space that features a licensed café with a tree-top terrace, an intimate cinema space, a corporate meeting room and an outstanding new gallery space with the original Bunker air vents still in place, a real talking point. COFFS COAST

focus

R E G I O N A L

CONSERVATORIUM Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium has been part of the Coffs Harbour community since 1984. We had a chat with Executive Director, Pat Brearley to find out more.

ell us about your role at the Con and future goals you’re hoping to achieve. I’m the Executive Director of the Con and have been involved here since 2016. The Con has seen such a positive shift in the past few years and I’m confident we can continue as the leading music education and performance provider in the region for years to come. With the first extension project nearing completion, I’ve continued the evolution of the Con with plans that will see our facilities become world-class and enable the delivery of our programs into the future. Our staff cohort has grown significantly in the past few years, with the level of teaching at an all-time high. Our performance programs are continually raising the bar and I’m excited to announce our upcoming concerts for the year over the next couple of weeks. It looks like you’ve been busy at the Con. 36 COFFS COAST

focus

What has been happening? Harbour Festival of Chamber Music take place While the past two years have at the Con from April 8-10. The Australian been incredibly difficult for the Coffs String Quartet came to Coffs for their first Conservatorium, we’ve seen some positive visit to the area. We had leading musicians and reassuring progress from across the now that we’re starting country, and involved to come out the other Conservatorium staff The Australian side of this pandemic. and students. The String Quartet The Conservatorium weekend was an came to Coffs for Extension Project is overwhelming success their first visit to the now almost complete, and saw just under area. We had leading with 4 purpose-built 500 audience members musicians from studios adding to our witness the spectacular across the country, existing facilities. Our performances on offer. and involved programs have seen a The festival was a Conservatorium staff significant growth in hard ‘reset’ for the the past couple of years performing arts in and students. despite the challenges the region and was thrown at us through a weekend full of the pandemic. We had our highest number of positivity, enthusiasm, and excitement for new enrolments to begin 2021, and 2022 has what the future holds. begun in a similar fashion. What an achievement! How does this tie April this year saw the inaugural Coffs in with the expansion at the Con?

The Festival was an exciting way to end Term 1 at the Con. Our new facilities were the perfect addition to help the festival run smoothly and all visiting artists were thrilled with the progress made. To continue this trajectory, the Coffs Conservatorium is now offering opportunities to study a Bachelor of Music through the University of New England without moving away. The course structure consists of the Students have coursework undertaken access to online, and then for all workshops, staff things practical, students concerts, and one-oncan learn from one ensembles, choirs, and one tuition time of our dedicated and vocal students and are across the camp and exceptional staff here at always a thrilling way gain valuable skills the Con. to finish each term. and make longWe currently have Once the holidays lasting friendships. one student undertaking begin we have our their BMus through the annual String Camp Con and look forward to beginning. This sees supporting our local community further into students from across the country come the future for all their undergraduate studying together in a 4-day camp program at the Con needs. that culminates in a grand finale concert. What events do you have coming up? Students have access to workshops, staff June/July will be a busy couple of months concerts, and one-on-one tuition time across here at the Con. June 23 & 24 will see our the camp and gain valuable skills and make Classical and Contemporary Showcase long-lasting friendships. The second week of Concerts take place. These feature our the holidays will see our inaugural Academy

of Piano Performance take place. Like the String Camp, this is a 4-day intensive holiday program and will feature our newest member of staff, Roger Cui alongside another of our wonderful piano faculty, Lana Chapliiova. The weekend between these two camps we have auditions for Disney’s Frozen Jr that is set to be held during the September school holidays. The end of July we have our second Sunday Series Concert for the year, and then an exciting jazz weekend in August, so we certainly have plenty coming up to keep everyone busy! As always, for more information please head to coffscon.org.au Thanks Pat. COFFS COAST

focus

38 COFFS COAST

focus

COFFS COAST

focus

On the first Saturday in July, picturesque First Avenue in Sawtell is transformed into a carnival of all things hot and spicy. Attracting over 13,000 people on the day, the Chilli Festival features over 70 chilli related and market stalls. We chatted to Sherry Price from Another Tasty Event to find out more...

herry, tell us all about our local Chilli Festival and what people can expect to enjoy? Sawtell will be turning up the heat this July when the Sawtell Chilli Festival returns for the first time in 3 years on July 2nd. Attracting over 10,000 people back in 2019, this year we are anticipating record crowds. More than 60 stalls will line the street offering a variety of foods and flavours from some of Australia’s leading chilli manufacturers and producers, as well as our own local restaurants and cafes showcasing their famous cuisine. They say it’s food with fire! Tell us about this year’s celebrity chef and what he will be up to at The Chilli Festival? Chillifest is excited to welcome renowned 40 COFFS COAST

focus

Matt will be hosting cooking demonstrations throughout the day on the main stage, and with our designated dining area, you will be able to sit back and watch as you enjoy the tastes of the festival.

Chef and Television personality Matt Golinksi to this year’s event. A highly regarded, professional chef with a passion for creating cuisine using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients. Well known as one of the original team members of the popular ‘Ready Steady Cook’ TV series, Matt has worked at some of Queensland’s leading restaurants over his 30-year career. He said, “Chillies play a big part in the cuisine of so many different cultures in the world, and for my demos I’ll be taking a look at how they are used in different dishes from South America to Thailand to Africa.

“I’m in love with all things spicy and I can’t wait to get down to Sawtell in July to immerse myself in this celebration of heat.” Matt will be hosting cooking demonstrations throughout the day on the main stage, and with our designated dining area, you will be able to sit back and watch as you enjoy the tastes of the festival. How can people stay updated and find out more? For more information visit sawtellchillifestival.com plus you can visit us on Facebook. Warm up your taste buds and see you in July!!!

COFFS COAST

focus

MELANIE W A U G H A R T I S T of the M O N T H

Melanie Waugh is an exceptional local artist who captures the beauty of our natural surroundings with a fresh and vibrant feeling that is completely unique to her.

i Melanie. Can you tell us about when you first really fell in love with creating art? I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t in love with painting and drawing. My parents put me in after school art classes here in Bellingen in kindergarten because it was the only thing I was good at, ha! And I continued going to that same teacher until I finished school. My high school art teacher at John Paul College, Mrs Kelly, was super inspiring and encouraged 42 COFFS COAST

focus

me to pursue a Visual Arts degree. And then going to the National Art School in Sydney was heaven on earth for an 18 year old from the country, because I was able to live and breathe it for three years. How would you describe your painting style? I would describe my style of painting as fairly traditional landscape painting with a heavy dose of Expressionism. I like to use big loose brush strokes combined with bold colours. I paint in a way the Italians call ‘Alla Prima’ meaning wet on wet, which basically

means I paint really fast creating, and I believe this demands a more immediate response to the landscape. I complete each painting in one session and try not to get bogged down in detail because the quicker I complete a painting the fresher it appears. What mediums do you most like to use? I’m mainly an oil painter, although when I travel and do painting outdoors I take acrylic and watercolour paints with me because they’re not as messy, but when I’m in my studio I purely paint with oils for the buttery quality of the paint. I like the challenge of

path towards the water. At the moment I’m also drawn to extreme light, long shadows or canopies of stars and the shadows created by a full moon. Could you tell us a bit about your process for I like painting creating a piece? the ruggedness When finding my of our coastline or subject I use the immediate the rolling hills and environment around me. I mountains around usually do some small ‘plein Bellingen, where air’ or outdoor painting I live. Everything I to get a feel of the place keeping the colours paint is like a diary of and also take some photos fresh and not my life, I paint where of the spot from different muddying the paint I’ve been. angles. Then I go back to on the canvas. There my studio, stretch up my are so many happy canvases and translate the accidents that are sketches and photos onto created when using a larger canvas. I’ve also started doing night oils. paintings which entails taking photos with a Where do you draw a lot of your lot of patience, a tripod and a long exposure inspiration from? to capture similar scenes at night. I start by The vibrancy of the Australian landscape. drawing the composition in with a red or an It’s pretty simple, I try not to over complicate umber colour paint and build up from there. things and just paint what’s around me. I’m a In my studio I’m not trying to re-imagine it big believer in painting what you know and all perfectly, but rather a feeling, so there is that is how you will get your best results. I definitely an abstract element to what I do. like painting the ruggedness of our coastline I mix the colours with a palette knife on a or the rolling hills and mountains around palette as I go. I use so many brushes at once, Bellingen, where I live. Everything I paint is I use a new brush for each separate colour I’m like a diary of my life, I paint where I’ve been. using and have a lot of rags handy to wipe Summer is a big theme in my work such as the moment before you get to the beach, that excess paint off my brushes or wipe off any mistakes from the canvas. feeling of anticipation, of catching a glimpse Continued over.... of the ocean and running down a hot sandy COFFS COAST

focus

I T R E A L LY S H O O K M E , I T M A D E M E R E A L I S E T H AT

life is too short

what I love

NOT TO DO

SO I JUST THREW CAUTION TO THE WIND

44 COFFS COAST

focus

How do you decide when a piece is complete? Good question, that’s hard. It’s something I struggle with, but I feel the more I paint the better I am getting at just leaving paintings to breathe. I’ve been For me there is nothing selected in worse than overworking some competitions a painting and it takes over the past a lot of discipline and few years too confidence to just leave a including The Kings painting. I really do like it School Prize, The when some of the canvas doing a mediocre job of Hawkesbury Art Prize is still showing when I’ve both because I was so and The National finished. It’s tricky but busy all the time juggling the aim of my painting them, so I needed to Emerging Art Prize. practice is to complete a make a decision. Also painting with the most to be honest my mum minimal amount of brush died in 2020 and it strokes but still capture the feeling of the place. really shook me, it made me realise that life is I also like to ask myself ‘would I hang this on too short not to do what I love, so I just threw my wall?’ and if the answer is yes I know it’s caution to the wind and moved back here from finished. Sydney after 20 years to paint full time. It’s At what point did creating art turn into been amazing how once I took the leap the something you realised you could do for a opportunities that have come my way. living? Do you ever participate in exhibitions or There were a number of factors and it took shows? me way too long to have the confidence to do Yes I am always working towards an it. I should have gone full time at this 20 years exhibition. Amber Creswell Bell, the writer ago when I finished art school, but you live and and curator, got in touch with me through learn. I’ve been painting full time since 2020. I Instagram a few years ago and offered me the was working part time as an art teacher and on opportunity to be in a group exhibition through my days off I was in the studio, but I felt I had a program she was running called Studio a foot in either door all the time and was only Direct that supported emerging artists and

then through that, subsequent solo exhibitions have happened. One of my most exciting exhibition experiences was being included in a still life exhibition in Berlin in 2019. I’ve been selected in some competitions over the past few years too including The Kings School Prize, The Hawkesbury Art Prize and The National Emerging Art Prize. This is always a thrill because I enter way more than I am selected for. I also try to participate in charity exhibitions when I can. This year they’ve included ‘Art For Floods’ and ‘Artists 4 Ukraine’. This coming June I have a series of paintings in an exhibition at Michael Reid Gallery in Newport Sydney and in July a solo exhibition at Michael Reid Murrurundi. Where can people check out your work or get in touch? The best way to see what I’m up to or to get in touch is through my Instagram which is @melaniewaugh Thanks Melanie. COFFS COAST

focus

D E V O R E

H Eva Devore is a burlesque performer who will be making an appearance at The Catalyst Club in Coffs this month. She is originally from the Mid North Coast but has been making a name for herself in Sydney for the last few years as a performer and costume designer.

46 COFFS COAST

focus

ey Eva, when did you first get into the world of burlesque? I first became interested in burlesque while I was in high school, and exploring different subcultures like gothic and vintage fashion, art and theatre. I found some really cool creators online who were burlesque performers, and thought the reimagined vintage aesthetic and unconstrained glamour was incredible. When I moved to Sydney at 18 to continue my studies, I went along to a local burlesque show and it blew me away. It was one of the first times I saw female bodies like my own, shown without filters or censorship, and wholly celebrated by the audience. It was a life changing moment for me, and I knew then that this was something I wanted to be a part of! For those who may not know, how would you best describe the art of burlesque? Burlesque is the art of the tease – exploring sensuality and striptease through performance. The origins of burlesque as we recognise it today stem from the striptease performers of the 1930s and 1940s, who emulated the film stars of the silver screen with glamorous, extravagant costumes. Nowadays, following the burlesque revival in the 1990s, burlesque performers explore sensuality through vintage inspired striptease, modern interpretations with contemporary music and costumes, and inject their individuality and creativity into their

performances. Many burlesque performers combine striptease and dance with other skills like circus, sideshow and performance art. What is the Australian burlesque scene like? Our Australian burlesque scene is a vibrant and creative space for our performing artists. We are so lucky to have so much talent here on our shores! We have a diverse array of artists here in Australia, from gorgeous glittering showgirls to incredible performance We have a artists making powerful diverse array of statements, talented artists here in circus performers and Australia, from drag extraordinaires. gorgeous glittering Australian burlesque is showgirls to incredible a wonderful space for performance artists LGBTQIA+ and POC performers, and we making powerful audience and they really have so many wonderful statements, talented connect with and enjoy shows and events all over circus performers and the performance, that the country! drag extraordinaires. is the most rewarding Did you have any Australian burlesque to me! dance or performance is a wonderful space I also love being background when you around and celebrating first started? so many diverse artists While I don’t have and bodies. In a world a typical background in dance study, I was where social media and advertising are often lucky to be able to study a few different kinds showing us an augmented standard of reality, of dance growing up. I spent a number of it’s so wonderful to see a live performance right years taking physical culture and belly dancing there in front of you! classes, and I pursued drama and acting What’s the biggest myth or misconception throughout my time in school. I also have about burlesque? always had an interest in theatrical costuming, I think the biggest misconception about and went on to study and become a qualified burlesque is that it is often considered a ‘lesser’ costume designer and maker. Once I moved to form of dance or entertainment, due to the Sydney to study, I found a local burlesque dance striptease element. Many people hear striptease school and joined up to take some lessons in and think that the performance is automatically fan dancing, and vintage bump n’ grind. After going to be vulgar or pornographic, but there a couple of months of classes, I decided to take are so many incredible, beautiful, artistic and the leap and make my burlesque debut! creative ways that the body, and the act of What do you enjoy most about disrobing can be used in performance art. I performing? love seeing how performers challenge the While the feathers and sparkly costumes misconceptions of burlesque and create new are a lot of fun, I think the part I enjoy most and exciting things within the art form. That’s is being able to entertain audiences and put not to say that there isn’t some really raunchy on a show. My acts are completely my own burlesque out there if that’s the kind of thing creation, a combination of concept, costume you want to see!! and choreography that I get to share with the You are performing at The Coffs this world. When that speaks to someone in the

month. What can we expect from the show? I can’t wait to perform in Coffs! It’s going to be an incredible show, with both local talent and guest performers joining the lineup. I will be bringing my award winning feather fan dance performance, along with a whole lot of glitter and sparkles with my watermelon act! You are originally from the Mid North Coast, what's it like coming back? I’m really looking forward to coming back and bringing my performance to the Mid North Coast. Growing up in the area, there wasn’t a lot of theatre and performance art like this that I had access to, so I’m really hoping that the audience will be delighted and inspired by the show! It’s definitely the kind of thing I would have adored going to see when I lived in the area and I can’t wait to bring it back and share it with everyone. My family is still living in the Mid North Coast, and it’s going to be so wonderful to have them come along to see the show! If you could go back and tell yourself one thing when you started out in burlesque, what would it be? Don’t be afraid to create what feels true to you, rather than trying to fit someone else’s mould. Listen to your own heart, and don’t let anyone, or anything hold you back (Even yourself!) COFFS COAST

focus

E KATY DE O PE

K A L E ID O S C

i Katy. Kaleidoscope is a creative retail space at Coffs Central, can you tell us all about it and the aim of the store? Absolutely, it is a collaborative creative space that currently sells unique products from 25 local makers and artists including textiles, beauty and even homemade delicious pantry goods. Yum! In 2020 the Coastbeat Creative Hub launched at Coffs Central where they built a strong network of local makers and artists who wanted to contribute by running workshops. COVID impacted those events and with the support of Gowings, Coastbeat Media and Coffs Central they developed the concept of how they could continue to engage the community and represent our local creative talent. Kaleidoscope was born. It is an amazing opportunity for creatives to experience a retail environment that may have otherwise been impossible, bridging the gap between a market stall and a lease. Our aim 48 COFFS COAST

focus

Katy Dee is the manager of Kaleidoscope, a unique creative retail space providing local artists, makers and creatives a way of sharing and selling their work that may not be possible otherwise.

is to so excited to be involved in any way! I knew it help artists share their work and products to was going to be great. The space is beautiful locals and tourists alike. This region is incredibly and it was an excellent opportunity to sell my talented as you already know! work in a retail space in the centre of town. You are the manager of Kaleidoscope, I loved the concept and the community spirit when did the store of the idea but I didn’t open and how long know how much fun have you been there? it was going to be. It is We still get We opened in midalways exciting when you customers November last year. I get a bunch of creative walking in for the first have been the manager people working together, time and love finding from the get-go and ideas are formed and out that everything is it has been a wild fun collaborations are born. local and that they can ride ever since! We still I still get such a kick out buy such unique gifts. get customers walking of a customer buying in for the first time and something I made. love finding out that It’s so great to be able everything is local and that they can buy such to showcase local creatives, how do you unique gifts. I still get such a buzz from sharing choose what to stock? that and letting makers know when I have sold It’s wonderful having so many talented something big or exciting! makers in the region and working in so many As an artist yourself, what did you find different mediums, so it can be hard to decide exciting about this space? what to stock to sell in the shop. We aim to When I first found out about the idea, I was have a diverse selection of products available

Each month we will have a guest artist hanging in our gallery spots and we are hoping to have an opening ‘Shop n Sip’ on the 1st Thursday of each month to celebrate each artist. in store and we’re always looking out for high quality, locally handmade products. I get some amazing artists contacting me, and we are lucky to be spoiled for choice in this region. Can you tell us about some of the makers you are working with at the moment? We have a wide array of makers, currently 25 so I can’t possibly list them all. Some that have been with us from the beginning though are Noi Creations, Pandora’s Plate, Shibora, Let Them Play Toys, Share Create Innovate, Takara Too Studios, Yellow Robin Ceramics, Corindi Clay, Bella Lunar Designs & Coffs Coast Art. Without the work put in by these, and all our vendors, the shop would never have been a success. Their imagination and creativity never ceases to amaze me. We are about to get a new and exciting vendor in the shop that I believe will be very popular. You will have to visit us to find out who that is and check out all our vendors on our website at kaleidoscopeshop.com.au How do you think having a retail space has

benefited some of the local artists and makers involved? For some makers this has been a really unique opportunity, most makers here have already had experience in market stalls and were looking for the next step in their business. Our current makers are all at different stages in their businesses – for some this is an exciting new step into retail where they can test products and prices, and for others they are fully fledged and this is an excellent place for them to grow their audience. It also connects them all to new customers and friends. It is so wonderful watching this creative community in Coffs grow. You have been running some events at the store, can you tell us about them? Yes! We are always thinking of ways to create and use our space! Recently we launched ‘Hanging Out’ which is an artist series we host in the space. Each month we will have a guest artist hanging in our gallery spots and we are hoping to have an opening ‘Shop n Sip’ on the 1st Thursday of each month to celebrate each artist. Our maiden event happened on 5th May and was a great success! We have some more exciting plans up our sleeves too

so watch this ‘space’. Our next Shop n Sip is Thursday 2nd June 5-7pm. Do you have any future projects planned with the store that you can share with us? Kaleidoscope, much like its namesake, is an ever-changing vision and creative experience but we are always focused on one main thing, connecting local products to people. We intend to get some workshops up and running soon which everyone is looking forward to. I know there are plenty of people out there wanting to connect, meet and make; we are here to help them do exactly that. I have lots of ideas for fun projects so follow @kaleidoscopecoffs on Instagram to be in the know! If there are local makers out there who want to get involved, how do they get in touch? Check out the website https:// kaleidoscopeshop.com.au where you can find all the details, or you can pop into the shop for a chat. Where can we find you and when are you open? We are located on the ground floor of Coffs Central, just behind the concierge and are open Monday-Friday 9-5pm, Saturdays 9-4pm. We also have an online store open 24/7: https://shop.coastbeat.com.au/collections/ kaleidoscope-collection Come in and say hi, we can’t wait to show you around! Katy & the Kaleidoscope Team. COFFS COAST

focus

A U S T R A L I A N Decorative and Fine Arts Society

ROADSHOW C O M I N G

T O

C O F F S

C O A S T

As part of the launch of the Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society (ADFAS) Coffs Coast in November 2022, on Tuesday 21 November Hilary Kay will hold a ONE-WOMAN ROADSHOW.

n the main lecture theatre at Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour campus, members and guests will be given an opportunity to have a selection of their own collectables discussed. Hilary’s areas of expertise for this ‘One Woman Roadshow’ are Toys, Models, Dolls, Teddy Bears, Scientific and Marine Instruments, Gramophones, Musical Boxes, Sports Memorabilia, Embroideries, Textiles, Costume and Fashion, Rock ’n’ Roll Memorabilia, Postcards and Cigarette Cards. Hilary Kay is a British antiques expert, lecturer, broadcaster, and author, best known for her many appearances on BBC TV’s Antiques Roadshow programme, which she joined in 1978 as one of the team of experts. On 20 November 2022, the Monday evening before the One-Woman Roadshow, Hilary will present an introductory lecture for ADFAS Coffs Coast titled “The Art of Deception Greedy, Gifted and Guilty”. The Australian Decorative and Fine Arts Society (ADFAS) Coffs Coast is a not-forprofit organisation run by volunteers, providing superbly illustrated, informative and entertaining lecture presentations on many diverse topics relating to the arts. ADFAS Coffs Coast lectures will start in November 2022. ‘Yarrila Place Cultural and Civic Centre’ in Coffs Harbour will be the exciting new venue 50 COFFS COAST

focus

for ADFAS Coffs Coast when construction is completed. Until then ADFAS Coffs Coast will hold lectures in the main lecture theatre at Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour campus. Coffs Harbour is Gumbaynggirr country. ADFAS Coffs Coast acknowledges that we are meeting on the traditional country of the Gumbaynggirr people. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present. The proposed ADFAS Coffs Coast 2023 program will feature ten lectures from February to November by a diversity of local, regional, national, and international speakers. The first lecture for 2023 will be Dr Sam Bowker on Monday 6 February 2023, on the topic: “Khayamiya : A History of the Egyptian Tentmakers”. Venue: The main lecture theatre in D Block at Southern Cross University, Hogbin Drive, Coffs Harbour. Lecture will commence at 6pm. (5pm Display of and discussion about Khayamiya textiles as members and guests arrive. Special preview for members, quiltmakers and guests.) Members free - Guests/visitors $25 per lecture. Bookings on Trybooking – search for “ADFAS Coffs Coast”. Bookings essential. On Tuesday 7 February 2023 Dr Sam Bowker will be presenting a Special Interest Day: Flowers in Art at Coffs Harbour Botanic

Gardens 10.30am to 3pm. A special interest day featuring two lectures by Dr Sam Bowker: 10.30am Lecture 1: “Blooming Marvels: The Global Art History of Flowers”, followed by lunch. Then at 1.30pm Lecture 2: “Nature’s Gifts: Australian Art through Native Flowers”. Tickets: Members $45 - Guests $55. Tickets available on TryBooking from 1 September 2022, ADFAS Coffs Coast. Membership: ADFAS Coffs Coast will be registering EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST from 1 June 2022 for people planning to join ADFAS Coffs Coast, and seeking membership fees from 1 November 2022 to 6 February 2023. EOI and Membership form available on ADFAS Coast webpage www.adfas.org.au/societies/ coffs-coast from 1 June 2022 or contact coffscoast@adfas.org.au EARLYBIRD MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL: Memberships paid by 21 November ($150 per person for 10 lectures and supper to November 2023) will include Hilary Kay’s (Antique Roadshow presenter) lecture “The Art of Deception - Greedy, Gifted and Guilty” on 21 November (Tickets $25) and $10 discount for the One-Woman Roadshow Experience special interest day 22 November 2022 - $45 for members and $55 for non-member guests. Contact: Les Davis coffscoast@adfas.org.au for more information.

ArtWalk

ot plans this June long weekend? Well, now you do! ArtWalk Port Macquarie Main Event: Friday 10 June 2022, 5pm-9pm Satellite Events throughout the long weekend Why this is the Winter Event we all need right now… It’s been…a year. And it’s only May! Many of us are feeling pretty low on energy and inspiration, and the perfect remedy is a dose of Port Macquarie’s favourite celebration of all things creative – ArtWalk! Be there when Port Macquarie shrugs off its day-time clothes, and transforms at night with magical lighting, musicians, dancers, artists, performers, digital installations and pockets of unexpected delight. Featuring 15 open air ‘live sites’ dotted throughout the CBD, river front and Town Beach Reserve, as well as plenty of participating businesses, cafes, bars and restaurants, don your winter woollies and wander in wonder at our creative talent. With thanks to Djuyalgu Wakulda, our local Gathang Language Group, ArtWalk 2022 will take inspiration from Dungang: Nyiirun girranggang ginyaanggang biladiyn (We are more alive and happier because of the river). The full program will be available as a lift-out in next month’s Focus Mag (on the stands on 1 June), and on the website (www.artwalkpmq. com.au) in May. However, we can reveal some of the highlights below: • Artists’ Market, Town Square

Alicia Fox Photography

be in a prime position to view ‘Connecting • Live street art, Town Square the Dots’, a gorgeous new digital production • Birpai Lanterns, Commercial Wharf projecting onto the Historic Courthouse. Bring • Light Sculpture Lanterns, Town Green your walking shoes and explore the whole event • Northern Exposure Art Exhibition at the (many CBD businesses are hosting artists in Glasshouse their venues), or pick your favourites then grab • Live musicians at Little Shack, Breakwall and something delicious for a picnic on Town Green. Fisherman’s Wharf There are also some amazing Satellite • New digital installation onto the Historic Events throughout the long weekend, such as Courthouse – ‘Connecting the Dots’ an Tortuga (ticketed), a daring new arts festival enthralling bespoke sound and light installation showcasing the finest in Circus and Cabaret featuring many creative souls who call our in a beautiful vintage Spiegeltent. Plus head beautiful region home to Wauchope to explore • Interactive Youth the ‘Creative Wauchope Theatre with GotYaBack Festival’, including creative Productions ArtWalk has demonstrations and • Digital art installations an expanded workshops with some of at Clarence House program this year, with our amazing local artists • Pop-up galleries in shop new locations and at the Wauchope Creative fronts activities for the whole Hub, and you can also • Chalk art and other family to explore. wander over to the NEW interactive creative Wauchope Art Gallery & activities for all ages Business Hub. Be sure to • Live performances check out the ArtWalk website for all the latest including theatre, dance, choirs, art updates (artwalkpmq.com.au). demonstrations, poetry, and so much more It’s free*, family friendly, and fabulous. ArtWalk has an expanded program this year, ArtWalk will fire up your imagination and warm with new locations and activities for the whole your soul. And that’s just what we need right family to explore. The main event weaves its now. way around the river’s edge, starting from ArtWalk is brought to you by Port Macquarie the Fisherman’s Wharf all the way through to Hastings Council, with support from Town Green, Little Shack, Breakwall Caravan Destination NSW’s Regional Events Fund, NSW Park and on to Town Beach Skate Park! Then Government’s Regional Events Acceleration wander up Murray Street’s creative precinct, Fund, and the local creative community. and head to the Glasshouse forecourt via the *Excludes some ticketed satellite events digital installations at Clarence House. You’ll COFFS COAST

focus

COMMUNITY UPDATE Thank you all for your support in ensuring our community remains safe and strong. Towards the end of last year, I had the pleasure of announcing a number of grants for organisations in our community: • Woolgoolga Junior SLSC received $2,700 to help purchase a tapand-go payment system that will be used for registrations, uniforms and fundraising at raffles. • Woolgoolga Chamber of Commerce received $3,385 to buy a new reception desk and counter barrier to make the workspace more comfortable and safer. • Woolgoolga United Football Club completed their $80,000 upgrade. They have extended the current roof and created a whole new

52 COFFS COAST

focus

covered concrete area. • Coffs Coast Archery Club received $3,500 to purchase a ride on lawn mower. • The Woolgoolga Shed received $2,000 to purchase a new laptop, laser printer and smart television. It will allow the shed to offer more services to members and the community. • Woolgoolga Diggers Golf Club received $7,200 to purchase new sprinkler heads to replace worn out ones.º • Marine Rescue Woolgoolga received $3,500 to cover costs of volunteers training for rescues and radio shifts. They are an integral part of keeping our community safe on the water.

E WA N A L

COFFS COAST

focus

E WA LAN

SOL COLLECTIVE YOGA H AU S O F C L AY Sharing their love of ceramics, Jess & Holly have teamed up to bring the joy of clay play to the Coffs Coast. Our studio is situated in the heart of Coffs Harbour City Centre in the Park Ave Laneway and we welcome all ages and abilities from complete beginners to the more experienced potter. Come and try out one of our fun Clay & Sip workshops on a Thursday night or Sunday

afternoon. Join us for a 4 week course in either hand building or wheel throwing. We have courses running during the day and evening. For the kids we also run after school programs and school holiday workshops. Haus of Clay is the perfect place to hold your private event, whether it be a hens, birthday, work function or just a get together with your group of mates.

the perfect place to learn ALL THINGS CERAMICS!

The Sol Collective Yoga is now located in the heart of Coffs Harbour’s CBD, in the laneway!

where you will be able to enjoy

Join us for our grand opening this June with a brand-new timetable overflowing with yoga, Pilates, and aerial yoga classes. We offer classes for all levels, whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, you’ll find something just right for you.

styles of yoga, to pilates mat

Step on your mat with our team of passionate teachers who share decades of experience,

are and what we offer on our

a wide variety of class styles with everything from vinyasa, hatha, yin, kundalini and aerial and more. We also host events, workshops, retreats, and teacher trainings so even if yoga isn’t your thing, we open our doors for you to join our community offerings. Find out more about who we website or by contacting us as listed below.

Haus of Clay is

THE SOL C O L L E C T I V E

All workshops are BYO and you are welcome to organise platter’s, food, and drinks. Check it out hausofclay.com.au e: Holly at hello@hausofclay.com.au

54 COFFS COAST

focus

Haus of Clay

@The.Sol.Collective hello@thesolcollective.co Find us on the Glofox app to book a class with us!

W W W .T H E S O L C O L L E C T I V E . C O

E WA LAN

HQB

TALLOW & TIDE We have moved! Our Best and Biggest HQ is ready for you at 17 Park Ave. Tallow and Tide have been open for 6 years now, championing Conscious, Sustainable and Australian Brands full of heart and soul. We have all your favourites plus new offerings across

Unisex Designer, Kids, Lifestyle, Vintage, Home, Jewellery and more! The newest addition of our Dried Flower Bar has been a huge hit, giving both us and our customers the chance to be creative. The Winter season arrivals are flowing and we can’t wait to see you soon.

After nearly seven decades servicing the Coffs Coast, we certainly consider ourselves “local” accountants. Our business may have grown, but our roots are still firmly in this community. Over the years, we have supported a number of local businesses and a wide range of events, clubs and initiatives to help build a stronger, more vibrant community. At HQB, we care about our clients’ success, and we are dedicated to providing quality tax and business advice to the communities of the Bellingen Shire, Coffs Coast and beyond. Our team has extensive experience across a variety of industries and can work with

you to untangle your accounts, ensure your systems are working efficiently and keep you compliant. Let HQB take the stress out of running your business so you can focus on the more important things in life!

Our Best and Biggest HQ is ready for you at 17 Park Ave.

www.tallowandtide.com

COFFS COAST

focus

H O L L Y Holly Adamson opened Haus of Clay in Coffs Harbour’s Park Avenue Lane with her friend Jess Miller (of The Art Dept.) after the success of her pottery classes showed a demand for a venue of this kind in our area. The girls are a powerhouse of creativity and passion and we are loving it!

i Holly. When did you first fall in love with ceramics? I’ve had an interest in ceramics since I was a teenager and inherited some pieces my grandmother made, but it wasn’t until about 2 years ago that I took my first ceramics course and fell in love with it straight away. Actually I became obsessed and sold my current business so I could do ceramics full time. What do you enjoy about working with clay? I love that I am using my hands and working with the earth. I find it really therapeutic, calming, and a bit of a stress reliever. It has really taught me to slow down and enjoy the process rather than the normal rush that goes with everyday life as a busy mum. 56 COFFS COAST

focus

I find it really

I also love seeing the You guys run a therapeutic, improvement in my work. number of workshops calming, and a bit of Practice definitely makes and events, can you a stress reliever. It progress. tell us about some of has really taught me You have opened the different options? Haus Of Clay with Jess Yes, we have a range to slow down and Miller, can you tell us of 4 week courses for enjoy the process how the idea for this both hand building and rather than the came about? wheel throwing as well normal rush that Jess and I are great as after school courses goes with everyday mates and after the that run through each life as a busy mum. success of the pottery term for kids. Our classes that we ran workshops are for through Jess’s business those that want to The Art Dept. We decided to start Haus of come along for a one-off session, to have Clay as a dedicated business for ceramics, a play and learn the basics. Our workshops whilst The Art Dept is dedicated to other are really fun, chilled-out sessions where art mediums and education. We became everyone can relax, get social and create with business partners and started up Haus of their hands. Clay in town to bring the joy of ceramics to We also offer private workshops which Coffs Harbour. are really popular. These are great for

E WA LAN

Providing a space for connection through creativity is also special, whether that’s meeting new people in our classes or providing a space for friends to spend quality time together.

events like hen’s and buck’s parties, birthdays including kids’ birthdays, work functions and just a group of friends wanting to do something fun together. Who do you get attending at Haus Of Clay? We get people from all walks of life, from 5 year olds up to 95 year olds. Total beginners, to the more advanced and people that just want to give it a go or have some fun with their friends, partner, parents, kids etc. We also work with NDIS recipients and various community groups. Working with people from all different backgrounds definitely makes this work more enjoyable. What sort of ability do you need to have to join a workshop? You don’t need to have any special abilities, we can teach you the basics and get you started. We welcome complete beginners as well as people that have had some experience. What sort of response have you had from people so far about the space and the events? We have had an amazing response to

our space and events. So many people comment on what a great space it is, great location and how much fun they have getting muddy with us. What do you enjoy most about hosting and teaching people at Haus Of Clay? I love seeing people get creative, even the ones that say they are not creative at all. Everyone comes away with something that they have made themselves and it brings so much joy to people. Providing a space for connection through creativity is also special, whether that’s meeting new people in our classes or providing a space for friends to spend quality time together. What would you hope people take away from their time at the studio? We always hope people will have enjoyed the experience, whether it’s the social aspect or the meditative “flow” that comes from working with clay. And of course, we want people to walk away with a ceramic piece they will treasure!

Thanks Holly.

COFFS COAST

focus

focus_contributor.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

with CATH FOWLER

SOPHIE

BIRD

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

TA L L O W A N D T I D E

an you tell us a little bit imagination can expand. about your business? Who is your greatest influence in I own 3 businesses, the business? main one being Tallow & Tide, Locally it would be Pam Williams, who owns a Conscious Collective store Nik & She. Many times over the years I have in the CBD which has been walked in and asked for advice. She is always open for 6 years now. We stock all consciously so generous and open, I admire her kindness created, Australian Designed products across and longevity in business. On a national scale, Designer, Kids, Home, Lifestyle, Jewellery, probably the longest inspiration (I had my hair Vintage etc. I also bought 2 businesses in the cut like her when I was 17 haha!) has been Pip past 2 years. One being a kids’ clothing label, Edwards. She has forged an incredible career in the fashion industry and has no qualms Jagger & Bloom, and most recently Amilita about pushing the limits. Whenever I feel like the Label, a sustainable ladies’ fashion brand. I need a push to keep at The importance in it all my dreams I have a little is that we are working stalk of her accounts and against the ‘machine’ of It may sound my inner fire gets a boost. fast fashion and lifestyle trivial and Have you always lived consumables. naive, however life on the Coffs Coast? What’s your favourite is a culmination of I haven’t! I moved to part of the work you little moments and Moonee Beach from do? business is hardcore Bangalow in 2016. I love I would say and frustrating! it here because of the relationships first and way the incredible country foremost. I’m naturally meets the beautiful drawn to people’s stories. Time serving and ocean. You can go from deep bush, to open connecting with my customers is never beaches in 5 minutes. I think everyone needs boring! I also have amazing relationships with a strong connection to nature and this area my stockists and suppliers. has it in spades. I have 2 kids, and they are I step into a totally different head space blessed with an abundance of community, when I’m creating designs and ranges for natural resources and a wild and messy home the Jagger & Bloom and Amilita, I need to come back to. I am also a creature of habit music loud, tea on tap, a notepad, I need my so being able to settle into a comfortable 10 year old sketches and magazines so my 58 COFFS COAST

focus

routine of coffee from The Black Apple, swim in the Estuary, cocktails with my neighbours as the sun goes down… Truly life is as idyllic as it sounds! What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? Kindness is key, but you are worthy. I think being kind in any aspect of life is so important, try to choose kind first. It may sound trivial and naive, however life is a culmination of little moments and business is hardcore and frustrating! You want your little moments to create a big, beautiful and interesting picture. But remain aware that you are worthy of equality, respect and to be taken seriously. I have found myself many times over the years being typecast as the ‘bubbly blonde’, ‘hot mess mum’, ‘all over the shop’ – in reality, I am all of those things in a great way haha! But I also can hold my own in a negotiation and have experience and smarts in a lotta good ways that are worth listening to. So know your worth babes! Where can people find out more about your business? Come visit! Have a cuddle at 17 Park Ave, our big beautiful new HQ! Shop online at tallowandtide.com and get social with us @tallowandtide @amilitathelabel - see you soon!

SHOP & WIN BIG!

construction cash Big changes are happening in our Coffs City Centre! Shop local for your chance to win

$1000 every week! From 3rd June simply spend over $25 at a participating business in the Coffs City Centre or Coffs Central to receive a ticket in the weekly prize draw. $1000 will be won each week, with two draws of $500 every Thursday until 21st July 2022.

Conditions: Promotion valid for purchases from 3rd June 2022 to 21st July 2022. Ticket are not carried over from previous weeks. Completed tickets to be dropped at the Coffs Central Info Desk. For participating retailers and full terms and conditions visit www.facebook.com/coffscitycentre.

COFFS COAST

focus

DISABILITY DINNER

Dance

ey Sam and Stacey, you have been hosting a DisAbility Dinner and Dance (aka DDD) event at The Coffs monthly. Where did the idea come

from? Our event has been a collaboration of both of our passions; Sammy’s experience in creating events and my love for supporting people living with disabilities. 60 COFFS COAST

focus

Stacey Warwick and Sam Phillips started DisAbility Dinner & Dance to bring people together, build social connections, and empower those living with disabilities.

We’re building social connections, empowering and celebrating individuality. The event continues to grow rapidly every month.

What has the night been like so far? A huge success! Having created events like Jetty Food & Wine with 2000+ patrons, DDD rivals the energy! We have community travelling from Grafton and abroad to attend. We’re building social connections, empowering and celebrating individuality. The

event continues to grow rapidly every month. Can you tell us about who is invited to attend the events? The Catalyst Club wishes to create events inclusive of all; focusing on equality and everyone’s unique abilities. Our aim is to create a safe and supportive environment while having loads of fun with

We want to shift the conversation around disability towards positive change with an emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility to mainstream events.

17th – this is not to be missed! What has the response to your events been like so far? We have had such a positive response. There is a clear need to create a space for more events like this and as a result we are venturing north We feel so to Grafton, having passionately about just secured a venue providing a safe space and date! Watch this for connecting with space... peers, forming safe and What do you hope positive relationships attendees get out of and promoting and having an event like fostering self esteem, this locally? friends despite any confidence and social Connection and physical or intellectual skills. inclusion is the main disability. focus around these You theme each of the events. People living with disabilities already events, what are some examples of some have so many barriers to overcome in their of the themes you’ve put on so far? everyday lives. We feel so passionately about The themes are guided by our community; providing a safe space for connecting with previous DDD’s post-COVID include Neon, peers, forming safe and positive relationships Mexican Fiesta, Radical 80’s, Cowboys & and promoting and fostering self esteem, Indians and an extra special one scheduled for confidence and social skills. Our hope is that we are a platform to create connections and June – Avengers Superhero theme on June

friendships for life for everyone who comes along. Where do you hope to see DisAbility go from here? We have some exciting projects on the horizon including Groove Therapy workshops, Catalyst Club Adventure Tours and Respite. We want to shift the conversation around disability towards positive change with an emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility to mainstream events. How can people find out about when your events are on or get in touch? Keep an eye on The Catalyst Club socials on Facebook and Instagram or for any inquiries please contact Sam or Stacey at thecatalystclubevents@gmail.com COFFS COAST

focus

focus_interview

T H W A I T E S

MARINE Thwaites Marine is a family-owned marine business based in Coffs Harbour. They are experienced marine mechanics and they also sell new boats and outboards. We met with Ben Thwaites and his wife Laura to find our more…

ou are a family with repairs on boats of all sizes, from small a passion for boating. tinnies to big super yachts. We can Yes, that’s right! service and repair any make and model During the week, we of outboard and inboard engine. Our work on our customers’ customers range from young boating boats and then on the families, spearfishermen, game fishing weekend we also spend our time on boats! enthusiasts, commercial fishermen, Marine Sailing, spearfishing, Rescue… scurfing... If the ocean We are also dealers is a bit rough, then we for Stacer boats and We have a good will be on the river in trailers and we have understanding Urunga or Mylestom. quality, affordable boat of people’s interests Our girls are growing packages in stock. We and needs. Our aim up surrounded by also sell Japanese built is to help find the boats and surfboards. Tohatsu outboards. right boat and the We cannot wait to Tell us more about right engine to suit take them out whale your boats? each customer and watching soon! We The Stacer boats their family. feel very fortunate we we have in stock suit can provide them with the most common this awesome lifestyle. practices and uses Tell us more about your business? in the area: fishing, diving and pleasure We offer a big range of services: we do boating. We are very proud to offer this marine engineering work and mechanical well-established, Australian-built brand in

62 COFFS COAST

focus

Coffs Harbour, for those who seek high quality, reliable, and affordable boats to go out to sea and return home safely. And for those who like freshwater and estuary fishing, we have selected a range of tinnies to suit your waterway adventures too. How do you help people find the perfect boat? The staff at Thwaites Marine are experienced fishermen, divers and sailors. We have a good understanding of people’s interests and needs. Our aim is to help find the right boat and the right engine to suit each customer and their family. It is important for us that they feel comfortable with the product and that they know we have their back, with our five-star aftersale service. Thwaites Marine at their premises on 30 Industrial Dr, Coffs Harbour @thwaites_marine thwaitesmarine.com.au 02 6651 7810

focus_contributor.

TALKING DESTINATION

with FIONA BARDEN

FROM COFFS CITY COUNCIL

It's time for

events!

A big calendar of events will be rolling out over the second half of 2022 on the beautiful Coffs Coast.

Sports fans are revving up he Coffs Coast has a reputation for event excellence, which The mighty Cronulla Sharks will take on continues to grow, despite the the Gold Coast Titans in Round 15 of the challenges of the last two+ years. NRL Premiership at C.ex Coffs International Combined with a destination full Stadium on June 18. Tickets are almost sold of things to see, do and experience, events out so get in quick! create a special appeal for visitors, and bring In August, the stadium will also host players the local community from 30 nations for the together. Below are International Tag Series. just a few events Come along and cheer on The Coffs Coast coming up on the the Australian Tagaroos as Food & Wine Coffs Coast that we’re they play to win in green Festival is a looking forward to. and gold.

See it at the theatre The Jetty Theatre features a packed calendar. Some of the highlights coming up include: The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, bringing the freshest and funniest from the 2022 Festival; acclaimed modern flamenco ensemble Bandaluzia led by ARIA nominated Flamenco guitarist Damian Wright; The Tap Pack, mixing slick humour, high energy entertainment and world class tap dance; and multi Golden Guitar Award winner, Melinda Schneider, in an intimate two-hour concert, Love Songs.

Food and music Motorsports feature food, held in venues lovers rejoice in November as the across the region The Coffs Coast Food FIFA Asia Pacific Rally from June 4 to 13. & Wine Festival is a Championships and celebration of local Motorsport Australia Rally food, held in venues Championships hit town across the region from June 4 to 13. Don’t in conjunction with the Coffs Coast Festival miss the finale weekend at Jetty Beach House of Motorsport. These events attract teams with a lineup of some of Australia’s finest of competitors and many spectators from musicians, complemented by food trucks, around the country and overseas. tastes of the Coffs Coast and more! Celebrate the great place we live Get your 1950s groove on at the Summer Don’t miss this huge community event Beach Hop on June 12 – the cars, the clothes, (times two!) on June 19 when the Coffs the music, the dancing – it’s all free to enjoy Harbour Botanic Garden will hold their Open at the Jetty Foreshores. Day. Featuring guided tours of the new Hot and spicy is the name of the game at the greenhouse and Coffs EcoQuest challenges, Sawtell Chilli Festival in July and Woolgoolga the garden will also host the fabulous All Curryfest in September, and you can cruise One Under the Sun Festival. Food, music and everyone together in Coffs Harbour’s green to the bands while enjoying food featuring oasis… this will be a wonderful day for all the blueberries at Blues & Berries Festival in family! November.

Just do it with your mates The Bendigo Bank Running Festival and the Woolgoolga MTB Festival are both held in September. These events attract participants from all over, but locals of all ages, abilities and fitness levels have the opportunity to take part. So pull on your running shoes or grab your mountain bike and go!

celebration of local

Check out more of what’s in store at coffscoast.com.au/events and mark your favourites in your diary today! #coffscoast #placeofplenty #ourplaceisgreat

COFFS COAST

focus

STAT E O F

PLAY with

COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

Festivals are helping people across the Coffs Coast emerge from the despair and devastation of COVID, floods, bushfires and drought, by simply being able to have fun. Festivals are about celebrating inspiration, creativity, appreciating new perspectives, and admiring and respecting the contributions of the participants.

he recent 2022 Screenwave International Film Festival, better known as SWIFF, is a Coffs Coast signature event and is increasingly popular with locals

and visitors.

So much so, just over 10,000 people attended this year’s SWIFF, which is proudly locally produced and sponsored. The Festival Patron is Australian film and screen icon and Coffs Coast resident Jack Thompson. The 7th annual SWIFF was a full 16-day festival with more than 130 sessions to enjoy, bringing us an even larger World Cinema program with titles direct from Sundance and the international circuit. We celebrated world premieres, Australian premieres, and an extensive selection of Australian films with the launch of the inaugural Ferguson Film Prize. SWIFF is driven by the passion and dedication

64 COFFS COAST

focus

of founder and artistic director Kate Howat and founder and festival director David Horsley. They and their festival team work tirelessly to deliver a challenging, exciting and unique festival experience, while the small army of volunteers makes the festival hum.

From the moment the gates are thrown open, we will be farewelled from Gumbaynggirr Country to enter STORYLAND, a world built by light and sound which will immerse us in the mythology of stories and take us back to the place where stories were created.

SWIFF this year saw the addition of STORYLAND, a new live music, installation arts and performance festival-within-afestival.

The inaugural Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival - which received $225,500 in NSW Government funding through the Regional Events Acceleration Fund - will be celebrated across various local venues from 4-13 June.

I’m proud to say STORYLAND attracted some $700,000 in funding from the NSW and Commonwealth governments.

I know the Amplify Events team looks forward to presenting the Coffs Coast Food and Wine Festival to our community.

It was originally set down for 23 April at Park Beach Reserve but the constant wet weather presented significant obstacles. Organisers are working towards a date in the near future.

It promises to be a major drawcard for local foodies and visitors who are set to spend up in local shops, cafes and businesses.

STORYLAND is a one-day playground of live music and art thanks to the talented creative directors Alison Page and Nik Lachajczak and their extraordinary team.

The Festival will be a mixture of dining sessions, workshops and digital experiences, featuring live music and art installations to create an immersive, multi-sensory dining experience.

GET YOUR VOUCHERS NOW The NSW Government is supporting families and stimulating our economy by encouraging people to get out and about.

You could be eligible for

$150 Dine & Discover $250 Parents NSW $100 First Lap $200 Active Kids $100 Creative Kids $50 Stay NSW You can apply by visiting service.nsw.gov.au or by scanning the QR code

coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6652 6500 Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements March 2022

with

RESIDENT JULIE

Moving into a new home is a major event all by itself. Add downsizing your whole life into the mix and you have a scenario that is often pushed into the ‘too hard’ basket.

ut according to new Marian Grove Apartments resident Julie, once she made up her mind it wasn’t as hard as it first seemed, in fact “it was the best move I could have made.” What prompted you to think about changing I’m just really your lifestyle, Julie? “I wasn’t keen to leave pleased I finally my home. I had it built listened to my brother 23 years ago and I loved and my friends who were it. In fact, I wasn’t even right, as it turns out. It’s a thinking about downsizing new life and I’m going to until my brother came to make the most of it. see me and said, “Where will you go next?” I was of the good property quite shocked, because prices you can realise at it just hadn’t occurred to me that I’d be going the moment too. I’ve been here for 6 weeks anywhere! But that’s when I started to think now, and I think it’s definitely the best move I about how I was finding it harder to keep the could have made.” garden looking nice on my own, and then a What are the most positive aspects of friend moved into a retirement village. She living at Marian Grove for you, do you kept telling me to come and have a look. Her think? place wasn’t for me, too much high rise, that’s “Well, it’s much easier to clean this place for not how I want to live. Still, it helped me start a start! I have a three-bedroom apartment and looking at things a bit differently.” it’s a breeze compared to what I was used to. So, you decided to consider Marian Grove? I have more time to spend living and enjoying “Yes, another friend suggested I come and life without all the maintenance and expense have tour of the apartments. That was when of a big house and garden. I visit friends and I realised that I could stay here, in my own entertain, and I love the sense of community neighbourhood of so many years that I love, and all the social life here. I’ve already met near Sawtell village and the beach, close to all people who I know will be friends at our my friends and be better off financially, as well resident get-togethers, and the staff have been as not having all the maintenance and cleaning so helpful and supportive through the whole process of moving in. Nothing was too much of that big house. I wanted to take advantage

66 COFFS COAST

focus

trouble for them. I don’t even miss my garden since I have this beautiful view, and now we have The Link to enjoy, all the pleasure of a garden without the maintenance! “I’m just really pleased I finally listened to my brother and my friends who were right, as it turns out. It’s a new life and I’m going to make the most of it.” Thanks so much for sharing your story with us Julie, we wish you many happy years here at Marian Grove! If you’ve decided that it’s time to think about making a change too, why not give us a call and arrange for a visit with our friendly sales team, we’d love to hear from you. There really never has been a better time to come home to Marian Grove, where your new lifestyle is waiting. Call us on 02 6653 1241, 0490 522 596 ,or visit our website at scca.net.au

Showcasing our local business powerhouses as they celebrate their solid track records.

COFFS COAST

focus

BEACH OR BUSH EXCLUSIVE BUYERS’ AGENTS

68 COFFS COAST

focus

Vanessa Simpson has many years’ experience as a real estate agent working both here in Australia and in the US, where she enjoyed the model of representing either the buyer or the seller, rather than both, to give them the best possible representation. She started Beach Or Bush Exclusive Buyers’ Agents here on the Mid North Coast to give buyers a helping hand in navigating what is usually the biggest purchase of their lives.

ey Vanessa, tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast? I was in the midst of a very painful divorce and wanted a fresh start for myself and my daughters. We lived in a small community and the demise of my marriage felt very public. I was desperately seeking safety and solitude. We found I was exactly what we were desperately looking for on a 110 acre seeking safety and property in the Orara solitude. We found Valley. The serenity of our surroundings, with the exactly what we were mist rising through the looking for on a 110 bush in the mornings, acre property in the bitumen for walking swimming in the crisp, and bike riding. We Orara Valley. fresh water of the river, have horses in the hearing nothing but Orara Valley, at Nana the sounds of the birds, Glen, so we still get our plus being surrounded by nature, were all country fix. My daughters and I are very close instrumental in our healing. We now live by to my mother. Thankfully, she also made the the beach at Sawtell. Because my office is in move to the Coffs Coast and loves it as well. Coffs Harbour, near the Jetty, living ‘in town’ You have spent some time in the USA, can with teenagers makes things a lot easier for you tell us about that? me. Sawtell is an amazing location with a lot I was backpacking throughout America to offer from a lifestyle perspective, beautiful in 1993. Whilst exploring the East Coast, I beaches, a myriad of choices for cafes and landed in a place called Kent Island, which is restaurants, plus lots of pavement and located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. I

loved the small-town vibe and how everything was centred around the local seafood, local produce and the Chesapeake Bay, which is a huge body of water that splits Maryland in two. I found a job waitressing and bartending at a dock bar and restaurant called The Jetty. This is where I met my first husband. He and his friends hung out there a lot playing beach volleyball. It was a fun place to work. Patrons would pull up on their boats and eat steamed crabs, steamed shrimp and soft-shell clams, accompanied with pitchers of beer and frozen cocktails. Continued over... COFFS COAST

focus

The role of a

People loved to hear meaning “let the buyer Buyers’ Agent is me talk, they loved beware”. The scales to represent the my accent, and I was are tipped in favour of buyer throughout always tipped well. I the vendor and buyers the transaction, was married in 1994 are on their own when protecting their best and started my career purchasing property, interests every step in real estate in 1995. which is likely to be of the way. I loved living on the the most expensive Eastern Shore, we never purchase of their lives. locked our house and The role of a Buyers’ left the keys in our cars’ ignition, parked in Agent is to represent the buyer throughout our driveway. I formed wonderful friendships, the transaction, protecting their best interests and still keep in touch. My daughters, Ella every step of the way. It’s something I’m and Brooke, have family there and they’re passionate about and I felt compelled to start very fortunate to hold dual citizenship. We’re up my own agency because I knew I would planning a trip back next year. make a difference for my clients, and I do. You own Beach or Bush Exclusive Buyers’ Tell us a bit about how it works and why Agents here on the Coffs Coast, how did this different approach works so well? the idea for this business come about? We assist clients in converting their wish list When working in real estate in America, into a realistic Property Brief, from which we there were times when I would represent base our search. The brief includes budget, the seller, and other times I would represent location, plus property criteria such as lot the buyer. That’s how the industry works size, number of bedrooms, whether they’re over there, whether a person is buying or up for a full renovation, cosmetic renovation selling, they usually engage a Realtor to assist or if they’d like the home to be in move-in them. I found that I preferred the journey of condition. We work with owner-occupiers working with buyers. I enjoy it even more so and investors. Although many clients are from in Australia, where the real estate industry out of the area, we also assist local clients. operates on the premise of ‘caveat emptor’, Our local client base is growing as more 70 COFFS COAST

focus

local buyers understand the process, plus the advantages of working with a Buyers’ Agent. We handle all communication with the sales agent plus negotiations on our clients’ behalf. We also assist with due diligence. This works well for several reasons: we shield our clients from pressure tactics and take the emotion out of the transaction, which saves on costly mistakes such as paying too much or not conducting proper due diligence. Our purchase strategy is predominantly around market value, we steer our clients away from paying too much, whilst still meeting their property goals. We take care of the entire process by liaising with third parties to get the deal across the line. Third parties include conveyancers, building & pest inspectors, strata managers, property managers, insurance brokers, valuers, etc. We have relationships with local businesses to whom we refer our clients. Because of this, we can get things done quickly, whilst remaining informed of outcomes. Of course, an important part of the process is working with sales agents. This has only proved difficult with sales agents who don’t understand the process. Fortunately, I have developed a lot of good relationships with sales agents. We work together on silent listings, and I recommend

professional sales agents to vendors as part of our free Vendor Advocacy service. In this, we meet with people considering selling their home, discuss what’s currently happening in the market, prepare a market appraisal plus assist them in choosing an agent. We deal with agents every day, so we have a good understanding of their professionalism and which location is their area of expertise. This area has seen huge growth in the past few years, what has it been like witnessing that through your work assisting clients in buying real estate? I was frustrated with buyers paying too much for properties and driving prices up. If they had worked with us, we would have guided them on price and stopped them from paying too much. Imagine if every buyer was working with a Buyers’ Agent. We take the emotion out of the situation, guide our clients on market value and if the price is too high, we move on, there’s always another property. Prices rose significantly because of emotion, and out of area buyers, uneducated in our local real estate market, were paying too much. The emotional factor and fear of missing out was especially prevalent the past couple of years. Many buyers wanted to escape crowded city centres due to COVID. Emotions and fear led them to pay too much, Emotions and and changed our local fear led them to property market, the pay too much, and prices continued to reflect changed our local what people were willing property market, the to pay. Sales agents were I’ve learned to be continually surprised by prices continued to grateful for trying the prices achieved. circumstances that reflect what people Can you tell us a bit have shaped me to be were willing to pay. about your team? a person with strength, The business has room resilience, authenticity, for growth, which excites humility and the me. Currently, I cover from Port Macquarie to ability to bounce back. I’ve learned I need to Yamba and I have a consultant for Byron Bay be grateful for the things, circumstances and to Tweed. My daughter, Ella, has joined the people right in front of me. I’ve learned how team on a traineeship and is supporting us many of my skills are transferable. I’ve learned with her social media expertise plus Property to recognise the importance of continuous Scout functions. I also have a virtual assistant. learning. I’ve learned to admit when I don’t What have you learnt about yourself know something. I’ve learned that following starting your own business? through on my promises pays off repeatedly. A lot! I’ve learnt I’ve got what it takes. I’ve learned I can’t do everything on my own

and that it’s OK to ask for help, and I’ve learned I have the tenacity to never give up. What does the future hold? I plan to continue to grow my business. Also, I am currently undertaking studies to gain the skills and qualifications I need to help the fastest growing demographic for homelessness, which is women over 55. I find this to be an incredibly alarming statistic, and since discovering this issue, I have been very passionate about uncovering a way I can help. I plan to help by creating and teaching investment strategies, geared towards women who want to put a long-term plan in place in order to safeguard their financial future. I am extremely excited to see what unfolds. COFFS COAST

focus

40 YEARS

in the

TRADE

hat services do you offer? General Practice Services: acute and chronic care, chronic disease management, immunisations, women’s health, travel medicine, indigenous health, Workcover and Third Party, skin checks, preventive medicine, child health, men’s health, aged care, home visits, hospital visits. How has your offering changed over the years? The range of services has broadened as the practice has grown. Our doctors have a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, but all are committed to the welfare of their patients. We have trained 65 young doctors in the Art and Science of Medicine since 1988. Hundreds of medical students from a wide range of universities, including several from overseas (Ireland, South Africa, USA, New Zealand), have come to Woolgoolga to enhance their medical training.

DR KRAMER B E A C H S T R E E T F A M I LY P R A C T I C E

Orthopedic Surgeons from Grafton provide twice monthly consulting sessions. Pathology is collocated downstairs, proving very convenient for patients. There have been big changes in technology – how has that helped your business? Prescriptions have been computer generated for over 20 years, but only in 2022 is it becoming possible to transmit them to patients and pharmacies electronically. Medical Records were being computerised around the turn of the century. What advice do you have to other business owners on the Coffs Coast? • Dare to dream • Try new things • Have fun at work Don’t be afraid to work on the weekend, but make sure you have regular holidays. Looking back – what have been some of your biggest accomplishments? Surviving and thriving as a small business serving the health needs of a rapidly growing coastal town. We are a “Family Practice’’ whose staff I regard as part of my extended family. We all watch out for each other as well as our patients and their families. How do you define success? I’m still here after 41 years, Dr Judy Haines has 35 years under her belt, and Drs Harjinder Singh and Janet McLachlan are both well into their second decade. I have no desire to retire, just slow down a bit, and take more holidays. Success mandates succession planning. I have it in hand.

72 COFFS COAST

focus

41 years in

business

BEACH STREET

F A M I LY P R A C T I C E

ow has your offering changed over the years? BSFP is a teaching practice. Over the years we have been able to increase our GP availability by being invested in this training and recruiting. The journey from Medical Student to GP Registrar to General Practitioner has enabled us to recruit successfully to address the needs of the community. There have been big changes in technology – how has that helped your business? The practice was using a hybrid system when I first started (2003), some paper files and some computer based. The transition was years in process with all paper records being scanned individually into patients’ electronic records, some of the patients had been attending the practice since 1981!! We are still working on becoming totally paperless with the implementation of virtual faxes and utilising encrypted email. The practice’s IT provider has been instrumental in our journey,

Success for me is a happy team at the end of each day and hearing patients compliment the staff or shout us morning tea, simple stuff!

keeping us up to date with new technologies. This enables us to stay current with state-of-theart equipment which in turn improves our service AND patient outcomes. The amount of paper and other consumables used in our industry is an ongoing issue. Technology has solved some, but sustainability is something we strive for every day. We have a team that is passionate about reducing waste without comprising the service to our patients. Looking back – what have been some of your biggest accomplishments? The new purpose-built surgery was 6 years in the planning and building. From the purchase of the adjacent property at 51 Beach St to completion of the building you see today.

FA M I LY P R A C T I C E

It was a juggling act during the building phase but the reward of opening the doors in August 2016 was an absolute joy to doctors and staff. We all felt so privileged to be involved in such an awesome community serving project. How do you define success? Success for me is a happy team at the end of each day and hearing patients compliment the staff or shout us morning tea, simple stuff! What advice do you have to other business owners on the Coffs Coast? Work smarter not harder. Surround yourself with the right people and put your business in the hands of a team you can trust. Be wholly invested in your community… You can’t go wrong!

Beach Street Family practice is a family friendly general practice established in Woolgoolga in 1981. We are an eleven doctor practice, including several general practice registrars. We are committed to providing personal compassionate care in an environment that is both professional and relaxed.

02 66541282 | 51 Beach St, Woolgoolga | staff@wnbmc.com.au | beachstreetfamilypractice.com.au COFFS COAST

focus

CHANDLER MACLEOD

Since then the business has grown and diversified up and down the coast from Taree to Tweed Heads and out West in the New England region. Where are we now Over a decade now in Coffs Harbour!

Jo Ellerman and Kristy Madaffari Celebrating their 12th year with Chandler Macleod Coffs Harbour

ixty years ago, Chandler Macleod was established by Alf Chandler and Doug Macleod as Australia’s first firm of registered psychologists. The firm built a reputation of expertise in predicting employee

74 COFFS COAST

focus

behaviour and critical success factors for roles, teams and organisations and used this expertise to provide specialised recruitment solutions.

commercial business both local and national. Stay tuned over the coming months to hear more about our successes here in Coffs Harbour and some of the Job Seekers and Employers we have supported. Meet the team

With the expertise of Jo and Kristy having focussed on placing the right person in the right job, our business here in Coffs Harbour has grown exponentially.

From right to left meet our recruitment professionals here to assist you in this candidateshort market to source quality applicants for your job vacancies.

In the past 3 years we have grown our own team to support our local businesses in the post Covid “Talent War” – finding and retaining good staff. Only last year Chandler Macleod moved from a small serviced office to our new location at 22 Park Avenue to accommodate our growth.

Kate Watson - Commercial/Local Business Recruitment Specialist

Chandler Macleod Coffs Harbour recruit to ALL Industries and ALL Chandler Macleod was established Roles. We deliver recruitment here in Coffs Harbour 13 years ago support to Local, State & Federal Government agencies and in a small home office.

Neva Niland - Local Government Recruitment Specialist Jo Ellerman - Permanent Recruitment Specialist - Team Lead Kim Collett - Recruitment Coordinator Kristy Madaffari - Manager Regional NSW Emily Caslin - Recruitment Specialist State Government

38 YEARS

in the

TRADE

ROB B R O W N

KINGDOM DENTURE CLINIC

ell us about you Rob, what is your background as a Dental Prosthetist? I’ve been in the industry since 1984. I started off in Armidale, I worked there as a dental technician. I then moved to Newcastle for five years and then relocated back to Armidale to raise our two boys. We moved to Woolgoolga 4 years ago as my wife had a transfer with her work and that’s where I started my Practice “Rob Brown Dentures”. You’ve just made a big decision to finish running your own business and work with Liz at Kingdom Denture Clinic, why did you decide to do this? I recently decided that I wanted to ease back a bit so I phoned Liz to have a chat and she offered me part-time which was perfect for me. That’s when I came to join the Kingdom Denture Clinic team part-time, as I will get to learn and work the digital way as it is the way of the future. How has your industry changed over the years? The advancement of the digital world is the biggest change for the denture industry. Looking back – what have been some of your biggest accomplishments? When I have had a patient who is happy with their denture and when I receive positive feedback for my work. That is a real buzz.

COFFS COAST

focus

IAN ‘MAC’ MCARTHUR

O P A L S

Ian ‘Mac’ McArthur has been a jeweller for over 50 years, and he is as passionate now about the trade as he was when he started out on this journey. He creates beautiful pieces of jewellery, but has also mined his own opal and precious stones, and loves to create wearable art for competitions.

i Mac. How did you come to work in the jewellery trade? I embarked on this award-winning jeweller path unknowingly whilst

also asked, ‘what do you love?’ My answer

My first job was at the prestigious

was immediate. ‘Treasure.’ I admit to playing

department store Dunklings in Melbourne, as

at pirates for many an hour, even going so far

a salesman. I loved working with the public,

as to create pirate ships out of upturned car

but was dissatisfied with the overall job, so

roofs on a local creek, a recreation for kids

I left. The decision to go to Coober Pedy to

that would be kiboshed today because of the

find my own treasure changed and directed

inherent and obvious dangers.

my life. It was there that I discovered this

a young schoolboy were the tipping point.

Can you tell us a bit about how you

passion for opal. I dug a lot of dirt, found very

Most kids are asked the question, ‘what do

learned your skills and got started in the

little but I learnt how to cut, shape and polish

you want to do when you leave school?’ I was

industry?

this magnificent uniquely Australian stone. I

still at school. The questions I was asked as

76 COFFS COAST

focus

I continue to make and sell precious metal and gemstone jewellery, delighting especially in the shaping and fashioning of gold, an incredible metal.

returned to Melbourne, met an artsy bloke who said to me, ‘sell me

The decision to go to Coober Pedy to find my own treasure changed and directed my life. It was there that I discovered this passion for opal.

some opal, I will carve wax patterns and cast them in silver’ and this was my introduction to Lost Wax Casting, a 3,000-year-old jewellery making technique, and so my manufacturing jewellery career was born. This was in the 70’s and there was very little silver jewellery in

Melbourne. My brother and I made sterling silver marijuana leaves, magic mushroom pendants and wild boar tusks set in silver which we sold to retail and wholesalers throughout Australia, predominantly Melbourne. We made penguins for Phillip Island, Ned Kellys for Glenrowan and at the Sunbury Pop Festival in 1972 we sold everything to anyone and everyone.

Today, over 50 years on, the passion has not abated. I continue to make and sell precious metal and gemstone jewellery, delighting especially in the shaping and fashioning of gold, an incredible metal. My zeal for opal has taken me to the opal fields where I bought several mines over the years, both in Lightning Ridge and in Yowah in south west Queensland. We cut it here in Bellingen, where I have a home-based lapidary workshop and we sell in our Hyde Street shop as well as online from macsopals.com and the usual social media outlets. Overall, I’m self-taught in most techniques, but I did attend RMIT in Melbourne and the Gemmological Association of Victoria which has stood me in good stead. The Coffs Harbour lapidary club taught me finer points of stone cutting and faceting and, in the 80’s, my partner at the time and I ran a shop on the highway, the Quartz Crystal Awareness Centre. How has the industry changed in the time you’ve worked as a jeweller? In the words of Bob Dylan, ‘times they are a changin,’ and within the jewellery trade never is this more so. Renting a shop or a gallery space, fitting it out with stock, furnishings, display materials, lights and, in our present day, cameras and security systems, including a protection guard for the outer window and a safe, is costly. On a comparative level, my first business venture, MCM Designs, was my brother, a mate and myself, literally returned from the Coober Pedy opal fields. We lived, worked and saved our money together in order to open our first shop. Gus and Doug worked full time, I drove taxis weekends for some spending money, and I worked the business, eventually the business was big enough for the three of us to work it. >>> COFFS COAST

focus

The pace of life was much slower. This was followed by a wholesaler who said to me, ‘reduce your price by two thirds and I will buy one hundred of each design.’ We did and this fired up the business. We opened a retail shop in the CBD of Melbourne with a factory on the third floor, a shop in St Kilda and one in the inner city, Collingwood. What do you enjoy most about your trade? As a self-taught jeweller, it has taken longer to be proficient in the techniques, but it also means that I have seen ways to make and create the seemingly impossible. The most exciting designs are coming via the apprentices and students of this art and craft.

78 COFFS COAST

focus

The diamond is a fantastic accent stone My passion leads me to create wearable for opal, especially the coloured diamonds. art and jewellery for competition. It is deeply Jewellery is constructed primarily out of the satisfying and enjoyable, and over the years noble metals and precious stones, and I have I have been fortunate in that I have been considered it the supreme privilege to work recognised for this passion for both the and create art using these materials. creations and the love of the stone, opal What are some of being my primary love, the most challenging followed by the depth of We won the aspects of what you the colour in lapis. Fantasy section do? Are there any of the Lightning One of the most particular pieces challenging aspects of you’ve made over the Ridge Opal Jewellery being a precious metal years that stand out to Competition in 2019 and gemstone artist you? making quite a comes with working I would like to share a splash on the night closely with the Bellingen Bowerbird story with the prime clientele. The design of of one of my outstanding movers and shakers a personal, handmade pieces, one of which I of the opal industry bespoke piece, which am immensely proud. all in attendance. they see in their It concerned my first mind and translating and most prestigious that into a reality, is easier said than done. accolade, Earth’s Curve. A pendant that It does not always turn out the way that depicted a view of the planet as if viewing they envisaged, but for the most part, the from the window of a spaceship. It had the spontaneous reaction is one of pleasure. ‘I curve of the earth, which was an exceptional didn’t think it would look as good as this,’ I piece of matrix from the Queensland opal hear many times in my work and it is music to fields, and the curve of outer space, which my ears. was a top-quality piece of lapis lazuli with its What are some of your favourite kinds of brilliant deep blue and intercepted with small pieces to create? diamonds to emphasise the night sky. My

dear and regular client, who coincidentally had also been a guest at my wedding, had come into money and decided to invest in something special. He purchased Earth’s Curve. He wore the piece with pride in the town. The day that he chose to swim in our local Never Never creek, he decided to take it off and put it on the river stones. He forgot to pick it up. Keep an eye on those bowerbird nests, Bellingenites. My latest award win was a steam punk of wearable art made in conjunction with Alex Cowley of Awl Leather. The piece was fittingly and prophetically called ‘Plague Mask’ and was based on the masks that doctors wore during the plague, filling a ‘beak’ with lavender and herbs in the belief that they would be protected from the plague. We won the Fantasy section of the Lightning Ridge Opal Jewellery Competition in 2019 making quite a splash on the night with the prime movers and shakers of the opal industry all in attendance. Of course, Covid put paid to any later opportunities for the next 3 years. Where can people find you and your beautiful jewellery? As mentioned earlier, our prime outlet is in Hyde Street, Bellingen and I’m available by appointment anytime. mac@macsopals.com is open 24/7. COFFS COAST

focus

BARRY HOCKEY A C C O U N TA N T S

Tax Time 2022 is looming fast – Make the most of the extended changes

t is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. As we go to print, we have a federal election looming. We have seen the present Government deliver many new (short term) policies to assist the economy through what has been an exceedingly difficult period in the last two years. Some legislation changes have been extended, particularly for small business owners. Small businesses should ensure that their financial information is up to date, so that important decisions can be made prior to June 30. Rental property owners should consider obtaining a tax depreciation schedule if you do not already have one. Depending on the age of your property, residential investors have historically found on average of $8,846 in deductions which has significantly improved their tax position. Small business owners should look to take advantage of the “full expensing” instant asset

80 COFFS COAST

focus

write off before 30 June. This could help to reduce or even eliminate tax payable this year. E.g. company buying a $100k piece of equipment before 30 June 2022 will save $26,887 of income tax at the corporate tax rate. Extension of the Instant Asset Write Off - effective 6 October 2020 Businesses with aggregated annual turnover within the relevant threshold will be able to deduct the full cost of eligible capital assets acquired from 7:30pm AEDT on 6 October 2020 (Budget night) and first used or installed by 30 June 2023 (extended from 30 June 2022 previously) This applies to both new and second-hand assets as well as improvements to existing assets. ATO Watch list - Capital gains from sale of Cryptocurrency If you have traded, sold or gifted cryptocurrency you must include this information in your tax return for capital gains tax purposes.

30+ YEARS

in the

TRADE

At Blue Ribbon Homes our service is personal, and our communication is friendly, open and honest. You will feel part of the team as we guide you through the building process, every step of the way in making your dream home a reality! The Blue Ribbon Homes team consists of Greg Bull (Director), Ben Smith (Building Supervisor), Jackie Hensby-Davies (Home Sales Consultant), Michelle Kearney (Administration Manager) and Phil Grace (Director) who we chatted to to find out more…

hen did your business open and who was involved? The business was started in 1988. Bruce Ellem was the original owner and Greg Bull, my business partner, was with him from day one. As with many great Australian institutions, we started in a garage! What have been some of the changes in your business – how have you evolved? We entered the building industry supplying Traditional & Attic Style kit homes. As the business grew, the demand for someone to build the kits on site grew and so we started to contract some carpenters to erect the kits. From there the company started to develop a range of standard building designs and take on the whole building project management and contract administration process. Inevitably clients like to change standard plans to suit themselves, and as we have always had inhouse design and drafting staff, it was a natural

82 COFFS COAST

focus

Anyone can progression into the People will forget the build you a design and construct details of what is said and house, but it takes a segment of the industry. done, but they will always For the last two remember how you make lot of conscientious decades this has been them feel. effort to build a great our specialty. In the last Do you think relationship that decade we have seen a experience and years will naturally yield a significant shift in the in the trade are premium home as contract price range that important? the end product. we are designing and Absolutely YES! Greg building in, moving into and I both have industry higher priced homes. backgrounds. I am a This has meant we can sign up less jobs to meet Carpenter and Joiner by trade and Greg started our annual sales budget, do more complex as an Engineering Draftsman. projects and give our clients a more intensive Coming from an engineering background servicing level as required by the more involved means Greg takes quantities with a higher level homes we are producing. of accuracy than your average building quantity Our primary focus now is to build a great surveyor would! This has many benefits for working relationship with our clients, which our company. Less waste to dispose of is leads to a more inclusive and lower stress good for the environment and for the bottom building experience. Anyone can build you a line, and cost efficiencies can yield a higher house, but it takes a lot of conscientious effort quality product with less upward pressure on to build a great relationship that will naturally the building price. Our orders are placed well yield a premium home as the end product. in advance, ensuring smoother supply chain

The market has also been serviced by some excellent local builders over the years, so carving a niche that is unique to us has been our biggest challenge I believe.

delivery, especially in these times of supply shortages. Greg’s experience and years in the trade have paid big dividends for the company operations and our clients over the years. Greg was working in the building industry when I was still in school. It was after I completed my Trade course and an Associate Diploma in Applied Science - Building, that I joined the Blue Ribbon Homes team as an employee. Greg has been an invaluable mentor over the last two and half decades for my transition from working onsite to working in the office. We were still drawing with ink pens on drawing film when I started in the office, who better than an Engineering Draftsman to have as a tutor to improve drafting skills? Then Computer Aided Drafting came along, Bruce sent us to TAFE CAD courses, and we’ve been drawing on computers ever since. 25+ years of CAD experience certainly makes my job easier, as I do all the concept design and working drawings for our clients’ homes.

Our Building Supervisor, Ben Smith, is a Carpenter & Joiner also. He brings a huge range of experience to our team. Everything from running his own business doing Queenslander style renovations to project managing high rise building sites and large-scale tilt up warehouses in Brisbane, commercial building sites in Northern Queensland and retirement villages here in Coffs Harbour. As a direct result of Ben’s experience, the quality level of finish we are achieving in our homes has never been higher. Constant positive feedback from our clients, tradesmen and suppliers confirms the value of experience and years in the trade. What have been some of your challenges? Coffs Coast is a very competitive building environment, over the years we have seen many project-style builders come and go. The market

has also been serviced by some excellent local builders over the years, so carving a niche that is unique to us has been our biggest challenge I believe. Maintaining Home Owner Warranty Insurance Eligibility has also been one of the bigger challenges facing all builders! What is the secret to your success? Great tradesman and suppliers! Without them we can’t put our homes on the ground. Do you have a motto that you work/live by? I have a life credo: Live life with respect, Love the worthy with reckless abandon, Work, train and volunteer with dedication and take the ride with an open heart. What is on the horizon for Blue Ribbon Homes? Blue skies and fair sailing! Our compass points to where our clients want to take us. COFFS COAST

focus

MAKE 2022 YOUR YEAR OF

S tr e ss Fr e e

RETIREMENT LIVING

Come

Home to

Marian Grove LIFESTYLE

ON THE COFFS COAST

SELLING

FAST!

CALL OUR FRIENDLY SALES TEAM ON (02) 6653 1241

LL C THOL A

MARIAN GROVE APARTMENTS

ENQUIRE NOW

PRICES TO SUIT EVERY BUDGET HOME OPTIONS TO SUIT EVERY TASTE.

6653 1241 • 0490 522 596 • www.scca.net.au Sawtell Catholic Care - Departure Fee Payable - Enquire for more information.

COFFS COAST

focus

focus_contributor.

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 high-quality 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. Who will benefit from the Community Care program? We understand some of the most vulnerable in our community are the ones

86 COFFS COAST

focus

He was the Head

who have the least at Central Coast Physiotherapist access to the services Mariners and Manly at North Shore they need. Our aim is United Football Club Mariners, also working to provide targeted care where he gained at Central Coast and support to clients plenty of experience Mariners and Manly at home including in the treatment United Football Club individuals and families and prevention of where he gained suffering with pain, sporting injuries. plenty of experience older adults including Ray had a serious in the treatment and those with Home Care accident a few years Packages, people ago that prevented prevention of sporting living with a disability him from working injuries. including those funded as a private clinician, under NDIS, and those but in his recovery in our community living with chronic found a passion for mental health and disease who can’t access our clinics. We mindfulness. This led him to complete his can also provide services for post-operative Psychology degree and start his PhD in rehab after hospital discharge along with Mindfulness and Pain. He is so grateful for workplace visits for injury prevention and this life-changing experience as it allows injury management services, as well as him to now support his clients in both schools. the mental and physical aspects of pain/ Who will be providing the Community rehab management in his Physiotherapy Care services in homes and workplaces? work. Along with being a physio, Ray is As mentioned, we’ve recently had also a Mindfulness Teacher and Researcher. Ray Chen join our team to head up He is dedicated to helping people in the the Community Care program. Before community free themselves of pain and recently moving to Coffs Harbour, Ray suffering. worked primarily as a musculoskeletal/ To find out more about the Community sports physiotherapist and clinical Pilates Care service or to book a home visit, instructor. He was the Head Physiotherapist call the friendly team at MNC Physio on at North Shore Mariners, also working 1300 273747.

focus_contributor.

Occupational Therapy – Community Care is Growing! with AARON HARDAKER

hile it’s only been two quick months since Mid North Coast Physio launched mobile services on the Coffs Coast, the next exciting announcement is already here. Their Community Care team is growing with the addition of a highly experienced Occupational Therapist (OT) adding a range of new services to what’s available for those in need to access at home and in the community. 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 launched Community Care initially with Ray Chen, our experienced and multi-talented physio, and are now pleased to announce we have Michelle Carr, an Occupational Therapist with over 20 years experience in the industry on board to support even more in our community. Who will benefit from OT services within 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

We can also provide services for post-operative rehab after hospital discharge, rehabilitation following stroke or head injuries, along with workplace visits for injury prevention and injury management services.

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, rehabilitation following stroke or head injuries, along with workplace visits for injury prevention and injury management services. Michelle has a good understanding of the health issues facing older clients and the services and supports available to them. For older clients experiencing cognitive decline, she can complete functional and formal assessments with clients and their family to provide comprehensive information to GPs and Specialists to enhance their care, diagnosis, and decision making. She is also able to provide follow up support for clients and their families as required. What can Michelle help clients with through her Community Care services in homes and workplaces?

As an Occupational Therapist her practise is very client centred and focused on helping people achieve things that are important to them, whether it be a simple everyday activity, or a leisure activity. Michelle can provide assessment and rehabilitation for people who have had a stroke or other neurological problems in the areas of upper limb, cognitive, perceptual, and functional difficulties. This can include reports to support NDIS applications for younger people. Michelle is also able to provide services such as home safety assessments, recommendations for minor home modifications and equipment needs, and pressure injury care. Home assessments can be carried out prior to planned surgery (particularly joint replacements or back surgery) to ensure clients are prepared and in the best position to manage well and confidently when they return home from hospital. 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. COFFS COAST

focus

ALEX BUNTON B A L L

A G A I N S T

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Alex Bunton is back playing in the WNBL and has represented Australia in Basketball at the World Cup. She is also a victim of Domestic Violence, and is using her platform to help others who find themselves in similar situations.

She will be part of Ball Against Domestic Violence; a local basketball tournament started here in Coffs by Rob Linton of North Coast Basketball, Kiah Bowen of NSW Police and Cass Wilson of Uniting, dedicated to raising awareness and funds around this issue.

i Alex. How has it felt being back playing in the WNBL? Grateful is the first word that comes to mind. To have this opportunity again to do what I love after everything that I have been through is something really special. When I retired I didn’t think it was possible for me to physically be on a court again but the rest that I got to have healed me in more ways than one. Can you tell us a bit about your Basketball career so far? I started when I was 15 years old. I started in Canberra for my junior years before going to the Australian Institute of Sport for three years. I represented Australia at U17 and U19 world championships and then at a senior level with the Australian Opals winning a silver medal at a World Cup. I’ve also been fortunate enough to play around Australia in the WNBL and around the world on tours, also playing in Russia for a Moscow team. What do you enjoy most about the game? 88 COFFS COAST

focus

I love the family feel you get when you join was something that I could help with and be a a team. You feel like you are part of something part of because it was so meaningful to me. I am special because everyone has the same goal as honoured to be a part of it. you… to win and to win together. I love the life What has been your role with the charity? that it gives you and the lessons it teaches you I was asked to “be the face” of the along the way. You make history every time you tournament but I know it’s so much more step on the court and you leave a legacy. I love it. than that. I am here to raise awareness, help You are now involved find sponsors, and be with Ball Against engaged in any way I can Domestic Violence here in by connecting people NO ONE Coffs, why is this issue so and helping people that DESERVES TO important to you? I come across. I am here BE HURT IN ANY I am a survivor of to share my story and WAY. PHYSICALLY, domestic violence. In the help educate anyone EMOTIONALLY, two years that I was retired who attends about FINANCIALLY OR MENTALLY. EVER. I went through some life domestic violence. changing moments. I had to Can you tell us what rebuild my life and create a Ball Against Domestic better life for my daughter Violence has coming and myself. Coming back to basketball I wanted up and how people can get involved? to make sure I used my platform and my voice to Registration is open this week to play! We are help people. donating money raised to DV families through The Ball against DV was something that I was Wesley Mission to support and sponsor at-risk approached with, and instantly I knew that it and homeless youth and their journeys into

B A L L

A G A I N S T

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Robert Linton

inton L t r e b o R North Coast Basketball is a key player in creating the Ball Against Domestic Violence events.

YOU MATTER

basketball, so any help and loving people out AND THERE ARE and contribution will be there who want to help. PEOPLE OUT THERE amazing. Sport can be a And I hope that these WHO WILL HELP YOU. great outlet and safe space tournaments reflect how BUT YOU HAVE TO HELP for people. It can really important it is to take care YOURSELF FIRST AND bring people together and of one another and to TAKE THAT STEP. give them support. be kind. I hope that they Anyone can get involved educate people and I hope by local sponsorship or that it makes an impact on donations. We are looking to make some “Ball people’s lives. Against DV” merchandise for the kids to give What would your message be to those out, things that have support service or DV experiencing violence or abuse at home? service numbers on them. Water bottles, shirts I know how hard it is to see the “light at etc. Honestly anything that anyone is willing to the end of the tunnel”. I know what it’s like to help out with will go a long way. be scared and lost. I know what it’s like to feel What are you hoping these events will completely helpless and alone. I’ve been there. achieve for people who have experienced I’ve been at rock bottom, but I chose to put one domestic violence? foot in front of the other and pull the end of Opportunities like this that involve a the tunnel closer to me to reach out to get help community are powerful. To have a sporting – and I never looked back because I knew that event that educates and supports people around even though I was left with absolutely nothing, it domestic violence is truly amazing. And that’s was better than a life of abuse. what it’s all about. Not only to raise awareness It was and is a process so be kind to yourself. and raise funds to support victims of domestic Seek help where you need it. Do the right thing violence but to show them that there are people for YOU and put yourself first. No one deserves out here that care. A community of people who to be hurt in any way. Physically, emotionally, want to help and who are there for you. financially or mentally. Ever. YOU matter and I hope it can continue every year, maybe more there are people out there who will help you. But than once a year to help out organisations that you have to help yourself first and take that step. support anyone in DV. There are so many caring Thanks Alex.

an you tell us what Ball Against Domestic Violence has coming up and how people can get involved? We have set a date for Ball Against Domestic Violence 2022, which will be held on Sunday 4th December at Sportz Central, Coffs Harbour. We are expecting the event to be bigger than last year and have added in extra divisions to cater for more age groups and different ability groups. What are you hoping these events will achieve for people who have experienced domestic violence? The aim of the event is to send the message to our community that Domestic Violence is not acceptable and that our community is here to be a support network for any victims. We want to educate the public on what to do if they witness any forms of domestic violence and what action they can take to help make a difference. What would your message be to those experiencing violence or abuse at home? Come forward and speak up to a trusted friend, coach, colleague, family member and make them aware of the situation, or report the case to your local authorities. There are people who can help, intervene, and create positive changes in their lives. COFFS COAST

focus

MEET OUR

TEAM DR. CLAIRE

elcome Dental is a locally owned dental surgery with a wide range of dentists and specialists to cater to our patients’ needs. Let’s meet Claire: Why did you become a dentist? Throughout my schooling years I loved art and science, so I was trying to find a career that would allow me to combine these two interests along with a lifetime of learning. When I considered dentistry as an option, I discovered that it allowed me to combine my love of art and science and it is definitely a career that challenges me every day. It constantly pushes me to improve and gain more knowledge and skills, I want to make sure that I am constantly learning and growing to be the best version of me for my patients. I know

We’ll turn that frown upside down.

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

90 COFFS COAST

focus

this is an exciting field beach and the It constantly where I will never know gym. I have recently pushes me enough! signed up to World to improve and gain What do you love Gym in Coffs more knowledge about your job? Harbour which I am and skills, I want to The thing that I love enjoying so far. I’m the most is being able make sure that I am also a huge coffee to help people. It is constantly learning lover, so I can’t go incredibly rewarding to and growing to be the past finding a nice assist someone through best version of me for café and catching their dental journey. To my patients. up with friends. be able to work with If you would my patients to improve like to make an their oral health and help appointment with Claire, there are online them gain their confidence is exciting. bookings available at welcomedental. It’s so great working in an industry that is com.au or you can call to schedule an based around people, as I love a good chat appointment with one of our friendly and I enjoy getting to know my patients. reception team at (02) 6655 5800. Claire is What do you love to do outside of working Tuesday-Friday 9-6pm, and every work? second Saturday. Outside of work I love going to the

Services.

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

Meet The Team. Dr Sharon Marinucci Dr Oleg Pushkarev Dr Claire Greer Wendy Summerill Jessica Cantrill Susan Waldorf Winner MARKETING AND ADVERTISING AWARD

et e M JIM SOUTHGATE NUTRITION WAREHOUSE

hat is your area of expertise? The Gym has always been a big passion of mine, so supplements came naturally. I keep it basic, protein, pre-workout and aminos are my specialty.

Our range is mind-blowing, and we want you to love your product as much as you love the results so we offer a unique 5 Scoop guarantee! What plans do you have for 2022/2023? To show Coffs we’re here! To give the community some education on supplements, health, and wellbeing.

What is the best thing about How do you YOU ARE your job? This keep your team OUR FOCUS is the business motivated? I EVERY TIME of helping lead by example. BECAUSE people look and Bringing a fun, FINDING THE feel better. It fresh attitude RIGHT PRODUCT absolutely lights to work every FOR YOU MAKES me up when a day. I encourage OUR DAY. customer comes my team to back with a result get out in beyond what the community, so they feel as they thought was possible. I LOVE connected as I do. to hear your story and personal Share some expert advice with experiences! our reader. Most people are not What makes your business stand hitting their protein macros every out? At Nutrition Warehouse we day. This makes your body more pride ourselves on our customers’ inclined to store fat than muscle, experience. YOU are our focus slows metabolism and can lead every time because finding the right to weight gain. Remember 2.2g product for you makes our day. protein for every kilo you weigh.

COFFS COAST

focus

focus_contributor.

& CHILD

MAKES THREE

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

his month I found myself starting a new adventure. I felt out of my comfort zone, scary and exciting at the same time, and very unique. It had me thinking about how couples’ relationships can change when babies and children come along. The transition to being a parent or stepparent is one of the most significant life events a couple can experience. Have you ever thought about the changes that you can anticipate with the addition of children? After their joyous arrival, we often identify those changes such as our couple relationship, social life, emotional life, finances, housework, sleep. The list goes on. Making a healthy transition from partners to parents will help you strengthen your relationship and provide a positive, caring environment for your child. As parents, you will share changes; however, individual partners may experience differences in the key issues they identify as concerns in the transition to parenthood. Talking about how individual partners may have different problems in the transition to parenthood is essential. Share your expectations. Couples expecting a child should share their hopes, expectations, and concerns. Communicating this helps us feel better prepared for what is to come and the realities of the arrival of a new child. Have regular couple ‘check-in’ times. Couples need to regularly ‘check in’ with each other, inviting a deeper connection. Honest and open conversations provide intimate and vulnerable moments shared with your partner. 92 COFFS COAST

focus

Open-ended questions offer a constructive setting for better knowing what is going well in the relationship. Open-ended question starters such as How did you..., In what ways…, Tell me about…, What’s it like…, will evoke more meaningful conversations. Schedule time at least once a week to talk or go for a walk. Even better, schedule at least 15 minutes each day after work, before dinner or during the day to connect and have a couple’s conversation. Be willing to experiment with new approaches. Children change things. What worked before may be difficult now, such as the time of day you connect or going out with friends. Try new approaches to your relationship and with the children. An argument may signal your relationship needs attention or a new direction. Instead of focusing on who is wrong, focus on what is happening to make things challenging and how to do things differently. Don’t ignore sex and intimacy. The physical changes that come with pregnancy and the tiredness that follows a baby’s birth or child’s arrival can disrupt a couple’s intimate life. Don’t ignore this topic. Recognise and pursue opportunities for nonsexual intimacy, such as touching, hugging, or cuddling. Also, discuss your feelings and work to understand each other. Adjust as needed to this part of your life. Support in the early stages. Support from family and friends helps overcome stress, so think ahead. Arrange for family and friends to provide support before the need arises. Taking a night off and going out as a couple or seeing the latest movie can be a fantastic way to give

you some relaxation time and enable you to reconnect with your partner. Challenges with the transition. If you struggle with the transition to being a parent or have fears, talk with a friend or trusted family member. Seek others’ experiences and ideas. A listening ear can help you feel more comfortable about your new adventure. Often new parents may experience ‘baby blues’ and, usually, the symptoms go away after a few days without needing to be treated. However, support and encouragement from your partner and others around you will be helpful. If symptoms continue after a few days, it is essential to let your health professional know as it may be a sign of developing depression or anxiety. Sometimes it can be hard to tell if you are experiencing symptoms of depression. Some parents take it for granted that having a new baby is hard work, and feeling a bit low and overwhelmed is all part of being a new parent. If you’re not sure, try talking to someone about it. Depression and anxiety will need specific treatment for your well-being and your baby. Appreciate each other and your children. Remind yourself about the things you do for each other and why you are great together. Show your appreciation in words and actions. Tell each other what you appreciate about your child and celebrate the things they do. Support each other as parents and enjoy the adventure. Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach) Member of Australian Counselling Association Member of WPATH

COFFS COAST

focus

THERE’S NEVER BEEN

A BETTER TIME TO

Come Home to

Marian Grove

ENQUIRE TODAY!

St r es s F r ee

RETIREMENT LIVING ON THE COFFS COAST

PRICES TO SUIT EVERY BUDGET, HOME OPTIONS

TO SUIT EVERY TASTE.

Come

Home to

Marian Grove

LIFESTYLE

LL C THOL A

Call our friendly sales team on (02) 6653 1241 or visit www.scca.net.au

MARIAN GROVE - SAWTELL CATHOLIC CARE - DEPARTURE FEE PAYABLE - ENQUIRE FOR MORE INFORMATION

with JASON BURLEY FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

GR ANNY

FLATS NE E D C AUTION

Granny flat arrangements may seem like a simple idea, but the implications are complex and filled with traps.

s parents age and need more support, families may decide to move in together and create a granny flat arrangement. This can allow generations of family members to support each other, as well as provide financial benefits. For an older parent this may offer a great care solution, but not every family can successfully navigate the pitfalls. You may need to remove rose-coloured glasses to ensure you objectively consider the family dynamics as well as the financial implications. What is a granny flat arrangement? Granny flats usually conjure up images of a small flat in the backyard but arrangements can take many forms. Social security legislation uses the term “granny flat right” to define a transfer of property or money, in exchange for a promise of accommodation for life. This transfer might be to cover expenses, or just to say thanks. For example, a parent transfers title of their home to a child in exchange for a promise to allow the parent to continue living in the home, or a

parent gives a child money in exchange for an invitation to move into the child’s home. If set up properly, the parent might be able to transfer assets to a child without creating a deprived asset. This may help to maintain age pension entitlements or reduce future aged care fees. But the rules can be complicated, which is why advice is important. Reducing your assets is not always a good long-term decision. What can go wrong? Relationships can break down and families may find it is not so easy to live together. This may see the parent left without money to pay for alternative accommodation if they need to move out. And if a move into aged care is required, choices may be limited without assets to pay the published accommodation costs. Risks can also arise if the child faces their own financial difficulties resulting from a divorce, bankruptcy, legal action, gambling problem or other addiction or breaks the promise to look after the parent. You might think “not my family”, but so

did other families who ended up in bitter legal disputes. How to minimise the risks? A carefully written legal document, setting out the terms of the agreement and what is to happen if things start to fall apart, might provide a level of protection for everyone involved but it is not a silver bullet that will avoid all problems. Don’t make rushed decisions, and everyone involved should access independent legal and financial advice to fully understand the implications. As an Accredited Aged Care Professional™ , I have helped many clients navigate through these decisions. 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 licensed financial adviser (I am an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232). Call me on 0431 414 799 or email jason@burleyagedcareadvice.com.au to find out how I might help your or a loved one’s own position.

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

focus

focus_interview

Matisse Hibbard was born to dance and perform. She has been a committed and passionate dancer at her local studio since before she was 2, and now at 18 she is looking forward to pursuing her dreams and working towards creating a career out of her great love of the performing arts.

Matisse

HIBBARD

i Matisse. Can you introduce yourself to our readers? Hello everyone! I am Matisse, I have a passion for performing and it’s what I’m working towards pursuing as a career. You’ve been dancing for quite a few years now, when do you first remember realising it was something you loved? I started dancing before I was born (so my Mum tells me). I was destined for Dance. My beautiful Mum committed her life to dance (as all dance mums will relate to) when I was 18 months old. And now I’m 18! Throughout my younger years both my parents trialled me with other sports such as Nippers, Horse Riding, Swimming, Karate but I always persistently pursued Dance, I was born to perform. So between one and a half years old up until now, how have you developed in your passion for Performing Arts? I started with Julie Ross Dance Studio in 2006, and with the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium in 2009 (when I turned 5). When I turned 10 I began private vocal lessons (and I am still taking private lessons). When I was 14 (2019) I started helping my teachers at JRDS with the younger age groups and I am now in charge of teaching age groups 5-9 years and 9-12 years Hip Hop and JFH at JRDS. Each time I leave the studio whether I’m teaching or dancing I feel I have learned more about myself. I know being a mentor to younger dancers is in my future. You mentioned you dance at Julie Ross Dance Studio, can you tell us more about that? I joined JRDS before I was even 2! I have

always felt a true connection to all my What I love about performing is that teachers and friends there. They’ve made it it allows me to express myself through the best environment to help me grow as a movement and sound. I have competed person and as a dancer/performer. in the Coffs Harbour, Grafton and Taree What styles of dance do you do? Eisteddfod each year since I was 6 years old. I currently do Jazz, Tap (I’m studying I’ve participated in all styles of dance, and level 11 Glenn Wood), Musical Theatre, vocal sections. Contemporary, Ballet (currently studying What is a proud moment for you so far? advanced 1 Cecchetti Ballet), Hip Hop, Lyrical, When I was 15 and in my first year of Modern, Acro. being a Senior Dancer at JRDS I was awarded Can you tell us about where you’ve JRDS Most Outstanding Overall Senior performed and who you’ve danced with? Dancer. I was very proud of this. I am so I always take every opportunity to grateful to have been taught by, and to be participate in community a part of, such a great or charity events. dance studio. Anything that my studio In pursuit of your I have a has organised for the dance career, what passion for community, I always love sort of training and performing and it’s getting involved. Being a study will you be part of JRDS has taught doing? what I’m working me that I contribute and My dream is to train towards pursuing belong to something full time for 2 years to as a career. bigger than myself achieve a certification because that’s what in Performing Arts. This being part of this dance is a huge commitment community is all about. I am so grateful that which is scary and exciting all at the same my family has always helped make everything time. Dedicating every day of the week possible for me to do what I love to. to my training is incredibly exhausting but Other highlights of performances for me rewarding. I’m so driven to work hard to so far: Kada Miller's video clip in 2021; Park reach my dreams. Beach Plaza Shopping Centre television What are some of your dreams for the commercials in 2017 & 2019; 2019 danced future? at Disneyworld, Universal Studios and on the I would LOVE to have a career in musical Carnival Cruise Line; 2016 Danced in the main theatre and Broadway productions. I’d like parade in Disneyland, USA; previously acted to get experience by back-up dancing for with Young Actors Studio Coffs Harbour. singers, performing in music videos and What makes you want to perform? on TV and one day being the headline And have you competed in dancing or performer. I have so many dreams for my performing? future, I just want to experience it all! COFFS COAST

focus

Nuturing FUTURE

COMMUNITY LEADERS

t St Francis Xavier we are intentionally nurturing all our

School Leaders: The School Leaders and Assistant Leaders are

Year 6 students in their leadership development.

elected by their peers to be the official student representatives for

Based on what has already been achieved so far this

the school.

year, the future of our school is in extremely capable

Social Justice Team: This team is all about promoting values

hands. Who knows…one of these amazing young leaders could be

that are at the heart of our school: love, compassion and care,

guiding your community one day in the future.

especially for those in need.

The Year 6 students are encouraged to have a representative voice

Environment Team: This team is made up of a passionate

in how the school functions as well as suggesting and supporting

group of environmental warriors who promote environmental

any new initiatives. They work as a team in an area of interest to

stewardship.

promote and improve different aspects of school life. Another

Sport and Play Team: This team loves to help keep everyone fit,

unique leadership experience occurs when the Leadership Teams attend a Parent Forum meeting to showcase and lobby support for school initiatives that are student led.

98 94 COFFS COFFSCOAST COASTfocus focus

healthy and active by organising games and activities and assisting with the purchase and maintenance of sports equipment.

C O F F S H A R B O U R C AT H O L I C PRIMARY SCHOOLS

more than curling up with a good book. They assist in the Library

‘Being a leader isn’t about the attention you get, it’s about what you actually DO.’

and promote the Arts through lunch clubs and competitions.

Bronte, Year 6

IT Team: Our very own IT crowd assists with all things IT; from

‘The Leadership Teams are great because everyone is unique and good at something.’

Books and Arts Team: This group of avid readers love nothing

troubleshooting for staff to helping younger students develop their IT skills to managing the PA and audio visual presentations for school events.

‘I love working in this team because I get to explore and develop my natural talents in IT.’ Lucas PBS Team: The Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Team maintains a high profile in daily school life, creating weekly visual displays, recognising students demonstrating school values and promoting student voice.

Lucy

‘Being a leader helps me to learn new skills and build my confidence.’ Pypa

‘Younger students look up to us so it’s important to be good role models.’ Ivy

COFFSCOAST COAST COFFS

focus

99 95

focus_contributor.

E D U C AT I O N

UPDATE with NICK JOHNSTONE

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

n the United States, the visual and performing arts have been removed from the curriculum in many schools to place a greater focus on literacy, numeracy, science and sports and also rationalise their budgets. I am pleased to report that this educational philosophy is not shared in Australian schools and in fact, in some schools, their practice is based on evidence-based decision making around student growth in both cognitive and social domains.

FOSTERING

Creativity grade level, gender, educational attainment of parents, ethnicity, and urbanicity. The study noted a strong correlation between musical ability and reading and mathematical achievement. Anecdotally, I regularly see music students over-represented on stage during school academic awards events.

The positive effects of students involved in the creative and performing programs include higher achievements in reading comprehension, language and mathematical development, increased higher-order thinking skills, increased school engagement, and improvements in social skill development.

Links between Drama and Reading Comprehension Several studies have demonstrated a correlation between drama involvement and academic achievement. One study with Year 6 and 7 students noted higher standardised test scores by students who participate in drama programs. There was a positive correlation linking drama with improved reading comprehension, maintaining better attendance records, and staying more engaged in class.

Correlation between Music and Maths and Reading Achievement I could list as many research articles that link musical ability to mathematical attainment as those that do not. The current consensus could be stated as unclear, however, it is easy to note that learning to play music relies on understanding concepts such as ratios and fractions together with other cognitive aspects such as building determination and persistence and memory skills. A 2021 study evaluated over 1000 middle school students and allowed for background variables such as

Visual Arts and Critical and Creative Thinking All children are entitled to a school curriculum that includes critical and creative thinking involving expression and the opportunity to create ideas and feelings in a visible material form. A 2013 OECD report entitled Art for Art’s Sake, stated that “Most people, including policy makers, believe that arts education fosters creativity and possibly other skills conducive to innovation. In knowledgebased societies, innovation is a key engine of economic growth, and arts education

100 COFFS COAST

focus

is increasingly considered as a means to foster the skills and attitudes that innovation requires, beyond and above artistic skills and cultural sensitivity.” This certainly is a strong endorsement for the 21st century skills our youth need. Dance and Human Culture Utilising dance in academics fosters childhood development in the “4Cs” – creativity, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. Through the creative process, students of all ages are encouraged to use their imagination, collaborate with their peers and solve problems. Dancing is a whole body activity, similar to sport, but also has an element of human cultural endeavour that builds and rewards dancers with social and emotional growth and awareness. A 2016, Spanish study, noted significant correlations between students who were involved in dance programs in primary years and school grades in Language and Mathematics. In essence, our visual and performing arts are not just essential for their intrinsic cultural value, they are essential to support our students to grow academically and socially to become well rounded citizens. Source: Bergee MJ, Weingarten KM. Multilevel Models of

the Relationship Between Music Achievement and Reading and Math Achievement. Journal of Research in Music Education. 2021;68(4):398-418. doi:10.1177/0022429420941432. Inoa, R., Weltsek, G., & Tabone, C. (2014). A Study on the Relationship between Theater Arts and Student Literacy and Mathematics Achievement. Journal for Learning through the Arts, 10(1). http://dx.doi.org/10.21977/D910123495 Retrieved from https:// escholarship.org/uc/item/3sk1t3rx

tafensw.edu.au 131601

Live a creative life or share your love of life. f Livelife. a creative life or share your love of life. Enrol now.

Enrol now.

At TAFE NSW our goal is to help change lives. Whether you want ts bringNSW out your side, cook up a storm in a commercial AttoTAFE our creative goal is to help change lives. Whether you want s tokitchen or help others enjoy more in life, TAFE NSW has a course to bring out your creative side, cook up a storm in a commercial help you realise your goals. industry-expert teachers, ourto aph y kitchen or help others enjoy Taught more inbylife, TAFE NSW has a course nationally recognised courses will give you the hands-onteachers, skills youour help you realise your goals. Taught by industry-expert & Media need to launch a successful career. Ready to change your life?

nationally recognised courses will give you the hands-on skills you Enrol for Semester 2, 2022 with TAFEtoNSW, a leading need tonow launch a successful career. Ready change your life?

cial ery provider ofCook lifelong learning.

Enrol now for Semester 2, 2022 with TAFE NSW, a leading ty provider of lifelong learning.

tafensw.edu.au

131 601 tafensw.edu.au

131 601

CRICOS

+ Visual Arts

+ Visual Arts + Ceramics + Photography + Ceramics + Screen & Media + Photography + Music + Screen & Media + Commercial + Music Cookery + Hospitality + Commercial Cookery

RTO90 03|CRICOS0 591E|HEPPRV12049 + Hospitality

RTO 90003 | CRICOS 00591E | HEP PRV12049 COFFS COAST focus 101

00591E

HEP

PRV12049 RTO 90003 | CRICOS 00591E | HEP PRV12049

focus_contributor.

LEADERS with CASSANDRA WILSON FROM BECOMING U PROJECT

JONAH BLACKBURN

i Jonah, so great to (and myself) that it is never too late to try meet you, tell me something new. a little bit about You were successful in the Elsa Dixon yourself… Aboriginal School Based Traineeship, tell I am an 18-year-old us about this incredible program. Gumbaynggirr young I was interested in a career in the health man, living, studying, and working in our industry and with the help of my career local Coffs Harbour community. I live with advisor, I applied for the traineeship with my family and have 2 younger sisters, one Mid Coast Local Health District and was in year 8 and one in successful. I was so year 6. I was born overwhelmed with here and attended happiness, relief and I love the drums primary school at both joy and my family was not just because Woolgoolga Primary so proud of me when they are loud, but School & Narranga I was chosen. Over Public School, before year 11 and year 12, I they help to express moving to Bishop work one day at Coffs myself, and gave me Druitt College for my Harbour Hospital, the goal to learn a high school years. one day studying at skill, showing others What do you love TAFE for a Certificate (and myself) that it is about school? III in Allied Health never too late to try I have such a great Services and three something new. group of friends and days at school. I would support network at 100% recommend school. The teachers this traineeship to my encourage us to try year 10 peers who are new things and be courageous. This is one interested in pursuing a career in the health of the reasons why in year 10 I took on the care industry. challenge of learning the drums. I love the Why was being part of this program so drums not just because they are loud, but important to you? they help to express myself, and gave me I see this as such an opportunity and the goal to learn a skill, showing others stepping stone towards reaching my

102 COFFS COAST

focus

goal of working and studying in the field of physiotherapy. I love that it gives me hands-on experience and opens my eyes to new ways of thinking and different ideas. It also gives me a chance to move between different wards, meet new people, develop mentors, and represent BDC in the workplace. You’re in year 12 now, where might we see you after you finish school? I’m thinking I would love to continue to work in health after I finish year 12, go to Uni to study physiotherapy and take some time off to meet more people and have more experiences. I have noticed that mentors are a common theme when talking to other youth leaders, has there been someone that has helped you? Yes, I have an uncle who is such a positive influence and strong role model in my life. He has helped me with making good life decisions, learning how to fish, become more confident with backing myself and inspired me to try martial arts. Lastly what advice do you have for other young people? Give anything a go, as you might surprise yourself and really like it and making mistakes makes you human, always learn from it and try again. Thanks Jonah.

& STRIKE KEY EMPLOYMENT

hat NDIS programs does Key Employment run for youth? Key Employment has been focused on helping youth with disability at our Coffs Harbour office on West High Street, and the vision to create a welcoming space for young people is taking shape with our purposebuilt community garden alongside the amply spaced youth hub and sporting facilities. NDIS Coordinator Gemma explains, we have the best spot in town for youth and currently run two NDIS programs, KIKSTART and STRIKE, which have been specifically designed for people aged 15 to 21. More recently we have been working with Uniting to deliver the 120 Countdown, a free Driver Licensing Access Program assisting disadvantaged people to obtain their drivers’ license and improve access to education, employment, health, and other services. Tell us about KIKSTART and STRIKE? KIKSTART is a work readiness program for school leavers in their last 6 months of school who have a NDIS package, specialising in building employability skills while engaging in a fun, social environment. The KIKSTART program includes social excursions, community engagement, transport training, personal development, and work experience.

Over the past 4 years the KIKSTART program has been incredibly successful in transitioning young people on the NDIS into permanent employment positions. STRIKE is a NDIS program for young people and was established to work in collaboration with KIKSTART. It is for younger students who are still attending high school in years 10-12. STRIKE focuses on life skills and preparing for the workforce, including work experience and practical activities, and is run in conjunction with their school program. And how does the Uniting program work? Uniting help people obtain their L-plates and connect learner drivers with our trained NDIS mentors to complete the 120 hours of driving practice needed before they can go for their P-plates. Licences have been a barrier to gaining employment and independence and we are now able to help overcome this. We currently have 12 participants engaging in weekly driving lessons and 2 who have successfully passed the driving test.

Why register for one of these programs? Our programs are all tailored to the individual and include one-on-one support as well as fun group activities, and can be delivered both at Key Employment, in the school environment and out in the community. They are flexible, fun and run by a company that has specialised in employment, disability, and youth for the past 30 years. Who is eligible? Young people aged 15-21 with an NDIS package that includes funding in social and community, finding and keeping or SLES. How do we register? This is the easy part, simply contact our NDIS Coordinators Charlotte or Gemma on (02) 6691 9999 and have a friendly no obligation chat about how Key Employment can support you. You can also drop by our facility at 61 West High Street, Coffs Harbour any time between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, or send us an enquiry to NDIS@ keyemployment.com.au and one of our team will get back to you.

COFFS COAST

focus

103

SOUTHERN

CROSS UNIVERSITY M U LT I - M I L L I O N D O L L A R H E A LT H P R E C I N C T E X PA N S I O N

104 COFFS COAST

focus

focus_interview Stage 1 of the Health Services Precinct has seen Health student numbers increase by 50 per cent

The expansion of a Health Services Precinct at Southern Cross University’s Coffs Harbour campus is proving a drawcard for students and a boon for the growing region.

tage 1 of the Health said. Services Precinct opened in Vice Chancellor Professor Tyrone Carlin November 2019, and has said the expansion of the Coffs Harbour seen numbers of students Health Precinct would facilitate clinical increase by 50 per cent in placements for students and specialist labs the Faculty of Health at to support health degrees. Southern Cross. The Stage 2 expansion “Importantly, these facilities will create has taken a step closer to being realised local jobs, deliver essential healthcare with a recent federal services and contribute funding commitment to the ongoing growth of $27.5million. and prosperity of the Pro Vice region. WE KNOW Chancellor Research “The University COFFS IS A Infrastructure continues to work REGIONAL Professor Les closely with our CENTRE THAT’S Christidis said the partners across the GROWING BY AN Health Services region to ensure this ESTIMATED 25 Precinct project is the vision is realised and PER CENT IN THE culmination of many that we support the NEXT 15 YEARS. years of research development of a and planning. “We thriving future for the know Coffs is a mid-north coast,” said regional centre that’s Professor Carlin. growing by an estimated 25 per cent in the The funding commitment announcement next 15 years. We want to provide more came from the Minister for Regional opportunities for our young people to not Education, Senator the Hon Bridget only get a top-notch University degree here McKenzie, and Federal Member for Cowper but also provide the health workforce of Pat Conaghan, who visited the University in the future that our region will require,” he late April. Continues... COFFS COAST

focus

105

Artist impressions of the Stage 2 Health Services Precinct

The new degrees have created more options for graduating high school students to stay in the region or relocate from other areas to study on the beautiful mid-north coast.

The funds would go towards building a community health clinic on the Southern Cross University Hogbin Drive campus, with speech pathology, occupational therapy, psychology, midwifery, social work and osteopathy consultation and treatment rooms as well as physical rehabilitation studios for clinical exercise physiology and other services. There will be dedicated space for mental health services, Indigenous health and student counselling. Stage 1 of the Health Services Precinct, completed in 2019, includes state-of-theart allied health facilities, strengthening 106 COFFS COAST

focus

the city’s in-demand graduate workforce in exercise science, occupational therapy, psychology, nursing, midwifery and speech pathology. Commencing students under the age of 20 have doubled in the last five years at Southern Cross University Coffs Harbour thanks to the expanded study options on offer. “The new degrees have created more options for graduating high school students to stay in the region or relocate from other areas to study on the beautiful mid-north coast. This has flow-on effects for the area as it’s bringing young people to the Coffs

Coast which stimulates the economy and adds to the vibrancy and culture of the community,” said Coffs Harbour campus coordinator Nick Simmons. The Stage 2 buildings are expected to create more than 150 jobs during construction, with an additional 800 students anticipated in the first five years. Local students love studying locally Southern Cross University Speech Pathology student Mia Reynolds, who originally studied the Diploma of Health at the Coffs Harbour campus, said she was thrilled when the University announced it would offer the Bachelor of Speech Pathology in Coffs from 2021. “Being able to study Speech Pathology locally without having to move to the University’s Gold Coast campus has been amazing. I’m thankful I can live locally and

Speech Pathology students Bronte Wall and Mia Reynolds at the Coffs Harbour campus

Our Speech Pathology lecturers are professionals who are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate and who give us a lot of individual support in our studies.

be surrounded by family and friends and get a quality degree while also keeping my job as a disability support worker,” Mia, 21, said. “Our Speech Pathology lecturers are professionals who are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate and who give us a lot of individual support in our studies. It’s so amazing to study this in Coffs Harbour, to study in a regional area with these kinds of facilities.” Speech Pathology Lecturer Melissa Kemp said having high-tech training facilities, connected via high-definition video and audio, gave students the best hands-on realtime training, as well as the ability to review

footage and analyse clients’ communication skills for assessment and intervention purposes. “Students first learn to use the equipment with each other in a class setting and then in a professionallysupervised speech pathology Health Clinic,” Ms Kemp said. “Once the new health precinct is completed we’ll be able to integrate these services into the other general medical and allied health services available to the public. Having this Health Clinic available to the public will be an important component of our students’ clinical work experience, and will offer a much-needed community health service for children and adults,” she said. Ms Kemp said local students were thrilled

to hear about the funding commitment. “I think it’s a real endorsement of the quality of the educational experience here at Southern Cross, and also the belief in our ability to provide for the needs of our communities into the future. As a Coffs local, it’s great to know there is a commitment to that,” she said. Free Speech Pathology clinic at Southern Cross University for children aged 2-12 years old Children who have difficulty in communicating, understanding others, with speech or with reading and writing, can attend a free, student-led Speech Pathology paediatric assessment and intervention service at the Coffs Harbour campus from July 2022. Sessions are delivered by student speech pathology clinicians, supervised by a qualified Speech Pathologist. Call (02) 6626 9131 or email clinic@scu. edu.au for more information or bookings. COFFS COAST

focus

107

focus_contributor.

BUYING PROPERTY

with VANESSA SIMPSON

BEACH OR BUSH EXCLUSIVE BUYERS’ AGENTS

W ELCOME TO THE F IRS T COLUM N O F BU Y ING P RO P E RTY CO F FS COA ST.

ach month I intend to give insights into the world of Buyers’ Advocacy and buying property, here on the Coffs Coast. I will cover topics such as the role of a Buyers’ Agent, advice for first home buyers, what’s happening in our local market from a buying perspective, a sneak peek at some of the Coffs Coast’s luxury homes, ‘beach or bush’ – living on our stunning coast versus living in our beautiful hinterland, insider tips, plus other varied topics. This month, I’d like to start with the role of a Buyers’ Agent. Although Buyers’ Agents are prevalent in our capital cities and are now included in popular ‘reality’ series, a lot of people here on the Coffs Coast are still unfamiliar with the concept. I, personally, originally obtained my real estate licence whilst living in America, where ‘Realtors’ either represent a buyer or a seller during the property transaction. When purchasing a property in the USA, a buyer will generally engage a Realtor to act as their (buyers’) agent to source the property plus represent their best interests during the process. I enjoyed working with buyers so much, I opened my own buyers’ agency here on the Coffs Coast.

108 COFFS COAST

focus

imperative the purchase is a sound one on all Buyers’ Agents are licenced real estate levels. The notion of having a representative agents. They carry out functions such as who will look after solely your interests is inspecting and short-listing properties, most certainly logical. assessing market value, bidding at auction, negotiating with sales agents, accessing Buyers’ Agents charge a fee to the buyer for databases and information not readily their services and do not share commission available to the public, plus they carry out with the sales agent. extensive research to For investors, the fee may ensure your choice be tax deductable because is a sound one. They it’s a fee associated with Given the also have increased acquiring the investment, substantial access to off-market of course, check this financial outlay, properties. Buyers’ information with your it’s imperative the Agents also liaise accountant or tax advisor. purchase is a sound with your engaged Beware of ‘spruikers’ one on all levels. The third parties, such presenting themselves as notion of having a as building & ‘wealth creation’ experts, representative who pest inspectors, but who do not hold a real conveyancers and will look after solely estate licence, or other strata inspectors. your interests, is most relevant qualifications. certainly logical. For most of us, There are also those buying a property is who decided the recent the largest investment property boom was a time we’ll ever make, and for a change of career and have not worked yet most people go it alone, without the in real estate before, presenting themselves assistance of an industry professional. It is as buyers’ agents. the sales agent’s legal obligation to represent Your due diligence is the most important the best interests of the seller and to act part of the process when purchasing a exclusively for them. property and you need someone by your side Given the substantial financial outlay, it’s who is experienced in the process.

Blue Ribbon

COFFS COAST

focus

109

Blue Ribbon

Experience the Blue Ribbon Homes difference and team up with a locally owned, long established reputable builder that has been proudly building beautiful quality homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 3 decades! We are committed to exceptional quality, modern innovation and most importantly, to you and your new home.

e offer an inhouse custom design service, an extensive range of standard plans or we are more than happy to quote from your own plans. At Blue Ribbon Homes we can guarantee to develop a balanced and functional home design that will suit both your lifestyle and your budget. We believe that building a new home is an exciting life experience and should be easy and enjoyable. Our experience and skills will give you the confidence to know that you are in great hands, leaving you free to consider what you want from your new home and to enjoy your building journey. At Blue Ribbon Homes our service is personal, and our communication is friendly, open and honest. You will feel part of the team as we guide you through the building process, keeping you regularly updated and making you feel involved every step of the way in making your dream home a reality!

110 COFFS COAST

focus

living and bedroom wings whilst creating an Our display home ‘The Belleview 4M’ ideal setting for a pool, luscious garden or a The Belleview 4M is a custom-designed combination of both. home with a feature courtyard that embraces Simple design articulation combined with the casual lifestyle of beachside living. The tall windows, doors and varying ceiling heights harmonious blend of practical features and aesthetically pleasing provides a pleasing sense lines creates a feeling of vast vertical space. Take of simple elegance. a seat anywhere in this You will feel part A contemporary home and instantly feel at of the team as we and sophisticated ease. Abundant natural guide you through the 4 bedroom design light creates an ambient building process, complete with media flow as you make your keeping you regularly room, perfectly way through the elegant updated and making designed for today’s spaces. you feel involved every modern family to Come on down and step of the way in enjoy entertaining and check out our display making your dream relaxing at home. home with our friendly Highlighting a team today. This is a great home a reality! seamless open-plan opportunity to get to transition from indoor know and see for yourself to outdoor living, the courtyard style layout the Blue Ribbon Homes promise of quality, enhances our ideal coastal lifestyle – this is a style and value. home suitable for all seasons. Facing north, Our display home is located at 7 Angler the private courtyard effortlessly links the Crescent, Bonville in the Sawtell Commons

focus_Abode.

You will find that most of the items on your ‘wish list’ come standard with a new Blue Ribbon Home. Our standard inclusions are premium high quality, stylish and modern.

Estate and is open Thursday, Saturday and Sunday - 10am to 3pm (or by appointment). Why we’re different Free Site Inspection We offer a free pre-purchase site inspection of your land, providing you with the right advice to help with your land purchasing and building options. Design Flexibility At Blue Ribbon Homes we pride ourselves on offering our clients unique customdesigned homes that will cost you no more than building from our extensive range of standard floor plans. Challenging Site? Our many years of experience allow us to confidently build on challenging sites, whether it be a double storey, split level or multilevel home. If it fits your land, lifestyle and budget, rest assured we can build it for you! Not So Standard ‘Standard Inclusions’ You will find that most of the items on your ‘wish list’ come standard with a new Blue Ribbon Home. Our standard inclusions are premium high quality, stylish and modern. Everything in our inclusions list is included in our pricing, what you see is what you get!

It’s Your Choice! We provide you with flexibility by offering you a choice of selections and suppliers. Also, any additional cost of selection upgrades will be passed on to you at our builder’s buying price.

About Us The Blue Ribbon Homes team is made up of experienced, professionally qualified staff who are construction industry specialists. All of our designing, drafting, estimating, quantity surveying, construction supervision and accounting are managed in-house. Our experience and skills will give you the confidence to know that you are in great hands every step of the way towards your dream home! At Blue Ribbon Homes our company directors work in the office on a daily basis, ensuring that you will deal directly with the business owners. You can have complete confidence that you’re dealing with the decision makers and know that our number one priority is to hand over every new home with delighted homeowners. Our team of local tradespeople are leaders in their fields, many of whom have been with us for several decades. We use premium quality local manufacturers for all our major construction items and purchase our materials through local distributors. Our long-term

relationship with our trades and suppliers ensures that you will receive the best possible service throughout your build and after you have moved into your new Blue Ribbon Home. As a member of the Master Builders Association, Blue Ribbon Homes is proud to boast a reputation of honest and reliable service to our customers, built with hard work and dedication over the past three decades.

Display Home 7 Angler Crescent, Bonville in the Sawtell Commons Estate. Open Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 3pm (or by appointment). Blue Ribbon Homes Office 1/5 Engineering Drive, Coffs Harbour Open Monday to Friday - 9am to 5pm. Phone 6651 8144 Email build@blueribbonhomes.com.au blueribbonhomes.com.au COFFS COAST

focus

111

BLUE RIBBON HOMES

Blue Ribbon Homes

Display Home

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 112 COFFS COAST

focus

feature

BLUE RIBBON HOMES

feature

M E TA L R O O F I N G A N D C L A D D I N G

Proud to be associated with Blue Ribbon Homes MATT CLEM / 0458 905 010

COFFS COAST

focus

113

PROUD TO SUPP ORT BLUE RIBBON HOMES

now you can have european tiles for less

PER SQM

Concept Stone External 604x604mm

made in Italy

lowest price guarantee

National Tiles Coffs Harbour 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6652 4866

114 COFFS COAST

focus

BLUE RIBBON HOMES

122 COFFS COAST

feature

focus

Proudly supporting Blue Ribbon Homes Cetnaj Coffs Harbour 151 Orlando Street Phone 6691 6100 LIGHTING | ELECTRICAL | DATA

COFFS COAST

focus

115

BLUE RIBBON HOMES

Previously Accent Bathrooms

Book your design n consultatio today!

122 COFFS COAST

focus

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

www.design10.com.au 116 COFFS COAST

focus

feature

COFFS COAST

focus

117

focus_contributor.

REAL

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

HOME OWNERS WHO MAKE THE MOST MONEY BUYING AND SELLING REAL ESTATE ARE USUALLY KEEN OBSERVERS OF THE MARKET.

here possible they sell when prices are high and buy when prices are stable or dropping. In other words, they act counter to the cycle that most other people are operating on. Property like any other commodity obeys the basic laws of supply and demand. The properties-for-sale-to-purchasers ratio is crucial. The idea is not to buy when everyone is buying and not to sell when everyone is selling. It’s a case of the majority is not always right. “Really good price” occurs at the opposite end of the supply/demand swing to the purchaser’s “really good buy”. Doing well in the market is not necessarily following the boom and bust extremes, the big seven to ten year cycles – there are many smaller swings in the supply-demand ratio that affect property prices. The graph for a rising or falling market averages out to a straight line but although it may be trending up or down, there are variations within that overall trend. Most people are aware of the big picture market trends through the media but it is much more difficult for those not involved in the industry to track the small movements that sometimes last only weeks and vary from location to location. The problem for most consumers is how to keep up with the micro conditions of the market. Home owners considering selling should stay in touch with an 118 COFFS COAST

focus

their property and pay the earth for it. But agent they trust and get specific advice about when to enter the market. Purchasers can do people buy with their pockets as well as their the same thing. Both vendors and purchasers hearts. No one goes into a real estate purchase can follow agents’ advertising to see how without making comparisons and weighing long properties stay on the market. If they are up all the factors. Many inexperienced turning over fast, it means a larger number of vendors make the mistake of thinking that no purchasers are competing for fewer properties matter what price a property is advertised at, – a seller’s market; if they purchasers will always are taking longer to sell it make offers. Put yourself means there is a glut of in the purchaser’s shoes, The graph for a properties for sale and not buying a house is really rising or falling enough purchasers to buy stressful. Most people market averages out them – a classic buyers’ won’t let themselves get to a straight line but market. emotionally committed

although it may be

to something they feel Many people think that trending up or is never going to come there is a correlation down, there are down to a realistic level. between putting a high variations within It’s easier psychologically initial asking price on that overall trend. to move on and make an an advertised property offer on something that is and achieving a high more realistically priced. final selling price. There’s certainly a link, but it doesn’t work the way It is wise to leave a negotiating factor when many people think. In fact, the opposite is setting your asking price, but price your often the case. If a property is really overpriced, property to create a sense of competition so purchasers just sit back and wait to see what that purchasers will want to snap it up before happens. If they’ve been looking around long someone else does. Contrary to what many enough to be ready to commit themselves, potential sellers think, the best price is nearly they’ve also made themselves very familiar always achieved in the early stages of the with what they can get for their money. marketing campaign, why, because astute It is common for inexperienced vendors to overprice their properties in the belief that the “right” buyer will eventually come along – someone who will fall in love with

buyers who are in a position to buy see the real value and will be prepared to commit as opposed to looking at lots of overpriced listings.

COFFS COAST

focus

119

You dream it. We build it.

Aria 28

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

Visit one of our stunning display homes today!

NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748.

Moonee Beach Estate 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10am-4pm Contact : Phillip Hitchins 0428 271 884 phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au

Sawtell Commons Estate 4 Angler Court, Bonville. Open Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm Contact : Tracey Lavelle 0434 499 829 tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au E33352

Coffs Coast Focus - i137

Articles inside

State of Play - Gurmesh Singh

Women in Business - Cath Fowler

Education Update - Nick Johnstone

Youth Leaders - Cassandra Wilson

Talking Destination - Fiona Barden

Buying Property - Vanessa Simpson