Coffs Coast Focus - i140 by Focus

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10 COFFS COAST focus 36. From the Shaker - Element Bar 44. PFLAG - Sam Dawson 51. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 57. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 62. Money Matters - Barry Hockey 69. Youth Leaders - Cassandra Wilson 86. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 92. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 98. Buying Property - Vanessa Simpson 102. Real Estate - Chris Hines 20 71 24 60 TOM MAJORADELE MANDILEAIDAN MURPHY Candele’s Candle Making Workshops provide a unique hands-on learning experience that is also just a whole lot of fun and you leave with a beautiful set of handmade candles. Performing since he was in primary school, Aidan has recently been awarded an international scholarship to study at the Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in New York. Golfing for most of his life, Tom has created a career from the sport. He is currently coaching back here on the Coffs Coast and inspiring a whole new generation of golfers. Every month you'll find the latest news, reviews and interviews from these locals. Thank you for your contribution to focus CHRIS HINES CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH INTERVIEWS OUR CONTRIBUTORS Follow us on facebook.com/coffscoastFocus focusmag.com.au contents ISSUE 140 - SEPTEMBER 2022

focus COFFS COAST

Jimmy Wags has started Mid North Coast Skate Club to encourage those interested in skateboarding to get out there and get involved with other keen skaters in the community. They invite anyone of any ability level to get amongst it and cheer each other on.

Tom Major has been golfing for most of his life, and has been able to create a career from the sport. He is currently coaching back here on the Coffs Coast and inspiring a whole new generation of golfers. And as always, we have our normal vast array of interviews with local and visiting identities. So sit back, relax and enjoy our latest edition of FOCUS.

12 COFFS COAST focus POSTAL PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE 0413 816 010 WEB focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au contacts. EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci nicole@focusmag.com.auSeccombe ADVERTISING SALES Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au ART DIRECTOR Jay jay@focusmag.com.auBeaumont SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au COPY EDITOR Sue info@focusmag.com.auChamberlain PHOTOGRAPHY/EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.auMoroney EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Daisyfocusmag@gmail.comMoroney CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Rachel wedeliverfocus@gmail.comLaw 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.

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. Welcome to the SEPTEMBER 2022 EDITION. from the focus team note 2022 has given our beautiful community some really exciting and awesome events. It’s so wonderful to have these back up and running and congratulations to those behind the scenes who put all of these events on. There has definitely been something for everyone, and we really hope you were able to get out and support as many as possible. We are super excited for what the second half of the year has in store and are looking forward to many more awesome events coming our way. As a community we are so fortunate to have these back. This month’s cover features Gracie and Jazz Kennedy who are sisters both ripping in their own fave sports! Gracie is surfing at a level well above her age and killing it, and Jazz is competing in skate comps all over the area and consistently placing.

Adele Mandile began Candele’s Candle Making Workshops in Sydney and after moving to the Coffs Coast is now offering them here. She provides a unique hands-on learning experience from start to finish that can be tailored to suit almost anyone and is also just a whole lot of fun! You leave with a beautiful set of handmade candles and if you’re lucky you may even get the chance to say hello to her gorgeous alpacas!

Inside this edition: Aidan Murphy has been participating in theatre and performance since he was in primary school and has been training and perfecting his craft ever since. He has recently been awarded an international scholarship to go and study at the Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in New York, such an incredible achievement!

14 COFFS COAST focus focus interview JazzKennedyGracie

But I was fully hooked when my dad took me to the Gold Coast for the Quicksilver Pro when I was 7 or 8. I got to meet Sally Fitzgibbon and hang out in the competitors area. You compete at levels above your age group. What comps have you been in recently and how have you gone? Yes I compete locally in the Woolgoolga Boardriders and Sawtell Boardriders under 16’s. I currently lead both divisions. I also compete in the open women’s at Woolgoolga and have made the semifinals a few times now. All the women have been so supportive helping me improve. I also made the semis at the recent Ride The Wave festival in Port Macquarie and have the Woolworths Grom comp coming up next month in Coffs. I love competing all over the east coast from Sydney up to the Gold Coast, making so many friends that also love surfing as much as I do. You’re involved in a heap of activities. What are your other passions and how do you keep up with such a busy schedule? My parents are supportive of me trying all sports. I’ve been boxing at Woopi Boxing Club with coach Zoe. I love the fitness and loads of my mates do it too. I do a surf fit class at TPM Physio in Woolgoolga with Dael. She is getting me fitter and stronger which helps my paddling. I get coached by Shaun Cansdell, who is arguably the best surfer to come from the Coffs Coast, competing at the top level. My dad is busy running me and my sister around but I think he secretly loves it, haha. At only 12 you’re a sponsored surfer. What brands are you sponsored by and how did that come about? My main sponsor is Xssurf in Woolgoolga. Brett and Ronnie have been amazing, they look after me with wetsuits and surf apparel. Brett noticed me winning the under 12 at WBC at age 8. My other sponsor is a team riders deal with Onboard Store Byron Bay, they give me a huge discount on Channel Island surfboards and all my hardware plus they hooked me up with Stickybumps surf wax. So I’m very well looked after and I’m so grateful.

When I was younger it was Bethany Hamilton and Sally Fitzgibbon. Now I love Courtney Conlogue – she’s always having a laugh which means she’s having the most fun, oh and she charges! Mum and Dad as well, haha! You’re taking part in the Make A Wave foundation. What’s that about and why is it so important to you? It is run by SurfAid. Surfers all over the world raise money by surfing every day in September. The money goes to remote surf communities that have no access to clean drinking water, healthcare and food security. Last year I raised over $1200, the support was overwhelming. Where do you see yourself in the future?

I’d love to work in the surf industry, maybe at the World Surf League. My Uncle Rich was head judge on the World Tour for 9 years so maybe I could take that up! Or even Surfing Australia as a coach. As long as I’m doing something I love I’ll be happy. Thanks Gracie. Continues...

Gracie and Jazz Kennedy are sisters who are both ripping in their own fave sports! Gracie is surfing at a level well above her age and killing it, and Jazz is competing in skate comps all over the area and consistently placing. I love competing all over the east coast from Sydney up to the Gold Coast, making so many friends that also love surfing as much as I do.

When did you first realise you loved to surf? I fell in love with straightsurfingaway.

Gracie

Who’s your biggest inspiration?

COFFS COAST focus 15

16 COFFS COAST focus focus interview Jazz

Yes my dad has been helping my two coaches Jimmy Wags and Bevin Newton from Coffs Coast Skate School set up Mid North Skate Club. It’s been so much fun, we’ve had two comps so far and I’ve come first in both which I’m stoked with because all the other girls rip as well. My biggest result came the other week up at the opening to the new Yamba Skate bowl. It’s really high, 9ft I think. I came 3rd against lots of older girls. The comp was judged on pushing yourself outside your comfort zone so I dropped the 9ft section and then nailed my run. I was so happy. You not only rip on a skateboard but we hear you’re quite the surfer as well. Is there one you prefer more than the other? Haha, yes I love surfing too. It’s great to do both but I’m definitely more of a skater, I think they both help one another though. Who’s your biggest inspiration?

COFFS COAST focus 17

Skye Brown, I love her style and she seems so nice. I also get inspired by my skate friends Frankie, Lyla and Georgia. We are always pushing each other and that helps me be better. What’s it like skating here on the Coffs Coast? Skating here in Coffs is the best. We are so lucky to have such an amazing park and bowl. All the older guys and girls are so, so supportive, helping and cheering us young skaters on, they teach me so much. I also love helping the really little kids out so they feel safe and are having fun. What’s your biggest dream for the future? My biggest dream is to skate at the Xgames in America and even maybe one day represent Australia at the Olympics, but for now skating with my mates is all I need. Thanks Jazz. My dreambiggestisto skate at the Xgames in America and even maybe one day represent Australia at the Olympics, but for now skating with my mates is all I need.

Hey Jazz. Tell us when you first fell in love with skating? I first fell in love with whenskateboardingmydadbuilt a half pipe in our front yard. All the older kids from around Mullaway would come and skate it, once I tried it I loved it. What’s your favourite trick on a skateboard? My favourite trick would have to be the Rock’n’Roll because that’s the first trick I really did, I’ve just started doing frontside and backside grinds and they feel pretty awesome. You recently joined Mid North Skate Club where you have entered some competitions. How have you placed so far and what comps are coming up?

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CORAL CONSERVATIONTHE MERMAID

Direct from Italy and returning in 2022 for their third Australian tour, the Italian Tenors are three of Europe’s most successful operatic tenors who have become a worldwide pop-opera phenomenon.

UNSUNG Join award-winning cabaret powerhouses, Amelia Ryan and Libby O’Donovan, in a rollicking, raucous celebration of the original Australian Rock Divas. Hear the thoroughly entertaining stories and songs that blazed the trails for generations of women to come. When 15th September Where Jetty Theatre Time 8pm Tickets jettytheatre.com.au

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Evans Tonon, Sabino Gaita and Luca Sala toured Australia in 2016 on their inaugural tour which saw the group play to sell out performances Australia wide. When 16th September Where Sawtell RSL Tickets sawtellrsl.com.au

CURRYFEST Curryfest celebrates the unique Punjabi heritage of Woolgoolga, immediately obvious from the Sikh temple on the hill as you enter town. For the last 14 years thousands have descended on the beachside town to soak up Indian music and dancing and sample curries from all over the world. When 24th September Where Beach Street, Woolgoolga L- FRESH THE LION L- FRESH The Lion is one of Australia’s most important Hip Hop artists and he will bring his unique and powerful performance to the Moonee Beach Hotel this September When 23rd September Where Moonee Beach Tavern Cost Free event

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 2

THE ITALIAN TENORS

“Coral the Conservation Mermaid” will be at Dolphin Lagoon to engage with children and inspire them to learn more about caring for our oceans, and add some extra joy. When All September School holidays Where Dolphin Marine Conservation Park More dolphinmarineconservation.com.au

BALL PARK MUSIC Select Music & Offbeat present Ball Park Music and special guests Monet’s Pond. They have written two incredible albums, delivering their usual array of timeless classic tunes to an ever-increasing fan base and wherever possible, have found their way on stage for numerous festivals across the country. When 3rd September Where Hoey Moey Time 6pm Tickets hoeymoey.com.au

theatre

incredible

AWARDED

CRAFT EVER

such

INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP to go

AIDAN M U R P H Y

TRAINING

Aidan Murphy has been participating in and performance SINCE HE WAS IN PRIMARY SCHOOL AND HAS BEEN AND PERFECTING HIS SINCE. HE HAS RECENTLY BEEN AN and study at the Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in New York, an achievement!

in order to perfectly showcase the character and intentions of the script, in an engaging manner.

mostly Australian, European, and American students (I’m not too sure about the other ones though).

I was required to perform a 1-2 minute monologue, for which I chose to perform in the role of Biff from Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman. Each person was sent into a private room with one of twelve panel members at the school to perform their monologue and answer a few generic interview questions. Continues over...

You have recently been awarded an international scholarship to go and study at the Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in New York, congratulations! Can you tell us how you found out about the scholarship and what the process of applying was like? A few people had directed my attention towards an advertisement that had been released on Facebook regarding the audition for the full and merit-based scholarships. I was reluctant at first because I felt I wouldn’t get it and it seemed too good to be true but decided to audition anyway as I had nothing to lose.For the audition I was required to submit a 1500-word essay responding to the question which related to the role and significance of an actor through storytelling and how this is convincingly portrayed. In addition, I was required to demonstrate a piece of craft which I had composed myself, relating to acting or film and television, thus I submitted a short,

Words describecannotwhat an honour I felt to learn I had been accepted into such a prestigious school for Acting, Film, and Television, and I am extremely excited to explore the Big Apple and take the next steps in my life. It’s quite literally a dream come true.

focus 21 You have been training in acting for quite some time. Can you tell us what made you start acting and how you first got into it? My passion for acting sparked during primary school drama and has since developed more seriously from there. I always enjoyed film and television from a young age, which is another reason why I started acting and film writing. What do you enjoy about it? The thrill of performance is the most elating part of acting. I enjoy being handed a script and given the freedom to take risks, research and cultivate the appearance, background, and flaws of the character in order to establish their certain emotions; then being given the opportunity to showcase that character to an audience, based on the text. Can you tell us about some of the types of training you have had and where? Much of my training has been held at the Young Actors Studio Coffs Harbour (YAS) by renowned director and acting coach Belinda Lemair. I have been enrolled at YAS for nearly a decade, engaging in various workshops, showcases, and productions. Other theatre and film acting institutes include the Barking Gecko Theatre Company, Subiaco; National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) workshops; Northern Rivers Conservatorium; and the Australian Institute of Music (AIM). What productions have you been a part of? I’ve been a part of many productions, all with different or unique styles of theatre and performance. Some of these production types that I’ve enjoyed most include: Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, It’s a Wonderful Life, Nowhere, Much Ado About Nothing, Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, The Wizard of Oz, and a Midsummer Night’s Dream. What are some of your favourite types of roles to play or shows to be a part of? Characters with an intrinsic or layered background and emotions are my favourite types of roles to play. My HSC individual project was based around supporting protagonist Sam Byck from Stephen Sondheim’s glorified production of Assassins, and is up there as one of my favourites. When you spend significant amounts of time paying attention to every minor detail or flaw about a certain role, you often tend to gain a relationship with that character. Byck is a very toeveryplotapproachThebottled-upproductsenseandoutrageouslywith,memanycharacter,eccentricprovidingelementsfortoplayaroundsuchashisfunnyself-deprecatingofhumourasaofhisintenseanger.monologue’stotheisunique,thuslittlekinkhadbeanalysedandworkshopped

studentsand100weremyauditioning.amountsessionsZoomitselfscreenplay.draftedTheauditionwasheldoverwithmultipletocovertheofpeopleAtauditionthereapproximatelydomesticinternationalinvolving

Words cannot describe what an honour I felt to learn I had been accepted into such a prestigious school for Acting, Film, and Television, and I am extremelyexcitedtoexplorethe Big Apple and take the next steps in my life. It’s quite literally a dream come true. Can you tell us a bit about what you’ll be inoncedoingyou’reNewYork?

monologuestootherhadAftermymajorlydirectorchangestoImuchattemptMyhowdifferentlytheimprovisedwholethingtoIplanned.secondwassobetteraswasadvisedmakesomebythewhichimprovedperformance.thisheforcedthreeauditioneesperformtheirrandomly.Bythetimemyactual

The first half of the Zoom session was about meeting staff and discussing information on the course with the director of the college. At this point he decided, for some unknown reason, to ask me, out of the hundreds of people on that Zoom, to perform my monologue in front of everyone. I was slightly hesitant as it wasn’t my time to audition yet, nor had I even known I’d be performing for everyone. My first attempt wasn’t great as I hadn’t had time to set up and perform how I had practiced; in other words, I

audition came, the panel member said I didn’t need to perform again, as he’d already seen my skills from prior and only asked if I felt ready to go to New York, to which I said “Nope, but I’ll definitely be there!” About one month later I received an email informing me I had been accepted for the meritbased scholarship, I had honestly forgotten I even auditioned by that point. How did it feel to find out you had been accepted and what does it mean to you?

andinindustryofTheEverything.heartthefilmthrivesNewYork,Iwantto gain as much experience in acting and film production as possible, as well as network my way through the industry meeting like-minded individuals from around the world. The scholarship is about so much more than just the degree, it provides the opportunity to experience all New York has to offer, and by being in amongst all the action for two years. I’ll be living in campus housing located in Brooklyn Heights which is right on the waterfront of Brooklyn Park and within walking distance from Brooklyn Bridge. The school itself is in lower Manhattan, merely a 7-minute subway ride from the housing; so, every day I’ll be out exploring the concrete jungle, trying new foods, and participating in their culture and celebrations, like Thanksgiving or Halloween.

The school itself provides the opportunity to learn practically with industry grade film and set equipment, and educating in all areas from acting methods and techniques to film production: screenplay writing, directing, pre- and post-production, filming, audio engineering, and promotion of both yourself as an actor or the productions which you have or intend to compose. What are you most looking forward to about your time in New York? Living out my life like How I Met Your Mother. I’m mostly looking forward to just being there and experiencing all that the city has to offer. What are some of your hopes and goals for the future?

I hope to also gain a team of like-minded creators to collaborate with, in order to make these goals a reality. Thanks Aidan. I’ll be living in housingcampuslocated in Brooklyn Heights which is right on the waterfront of Brooklyn Park and within BrooklyndistancewalkingfromBridge. The school itself is in lower subwaymerelyManhattan,a7-minuteridefrom the housing.

The ability to earn an income acting in cinematic grade films and TV series, as well as producing and directing my own films, is my biggest hope for the future and my overall aim when I make it to NYC.

24 COFFS COAST focus

The candle classes have been up and running in Sydney for about 10 years now, and I wanted to set them up here as well. So I got in touch with a few of the pubs around Coffs and Grafton, and started doing some Candles and Champagne events which were really well received, and have also run a couple out of my garage space recently. We’ve set it all up for my workshops and decorated it so it’s nice and cosy and a fun couple of hours. Who would you recommend can attend your workshops, who can you cater to? We cater to pretty much anybody who wants to come and learn some basic candle making skills. This may be for a new hobby, just a fun crafty couple of hours, or just to save some money and make them yourself. It’s a fun thing for couples and groups of friends, guys and girls, kids and parents (kids over 10 years and need to have a supervising adult with them). It’s also a great team building event, as well as for other things like birthdays, hens’ parties, community groups and so on. We have gift vouchers available too, so it’s a great gift idea for someone! Can you tell us all about your workshops and how they run? At the moment in Coffs I’m just doing my 2 hour workshop which includes making a range of candles including votives, tealights, jars and travel candles. I also run a 4 hour class in Sydney that I hope to start in Coffs soon too, which goes into a bit more depth and makes a wider variety of candles. It’s a group session, with a max of 16 per class, and up to 4 people per table. I can

I’m originally from Scotland and moved to Sydney after the 2000 Olympics, and then to Coffs only 4 years ago to a couple of acres in the beautiful Korora Basin with my husband Greg, our 2 black labs Marlin and Yogi, and 3 alpacas Baz, Bruce and Vlad.

One of the things I was looking for when I first started was someone to teach me. While I got bits and pieces of info from a number of people, I couldn’t really find anyone to teach me hands on. Once I knew what I was doing, I thought there are probably heaps of people out there who would be interested in learning too. So we jumped in and set up Candele’s Candle making Class to teach the basics, with a focus on making it a nice, enjoyable, and easy to understand class. You now run workshops here in Coffs, can you tell us how that evolved?

MANDILE CANDELE’SWORKSHOPSCANDLE Adele

Hi Adele. When did you first learn to make candles? I have always been a bit of a candle lover, and had candles burning around the house all the time. My husband suggested that I should have a look at making my own about 15 years ago (I think he may have seen a receipt from one of my many purchases), so I started researching and talking to suppliers and other candle makers, and figured it all out as I went along. A bit of trial and error, but I was lucky to have a few people who helped me while I was learning. When did you realise this could be a potential business for you?

Firstly I hope that people all leave with a smile on their face, and also gain a new skill that they can take away with them. I try to make sure that everything is kept really simple and easy so that they can take what they’ve learned and repeat it at home themselves.

Where are your workshops run and how can people get in touch?

COFFS COAST focus 25 run larger groups by appointment too. There’s no problem coming by yourself though and it’s a great way to meet some new people. But basically, everything you need is supplied, and it’s a hands-on experience. You choose the fragrances and colours and I walk you through the process of melting the wax and pouring the candles, but you do it allThere’syourself.some refreshments included while the candles are setting, and a chance to pick my brain with any questions. The main aim though is to make it a fun and enjoyable experience, and even better is that you get to go home with some great candles that you’ve made yourself. What do you hope people get out of attending your workshops?

The best place for people to find my contact details and check out where and when my classes are on is via my website at (candeles. com.au). You can contact me, or book a class directly off the website (using PayPal so it’s all nice and secure). I’ve just started running a class every couple of months out of my home, but can also come to you for private events like birthdays, team building, work Xmas parties, kids’ parties and so I’veon. also done events with schools, aged care centres, community groups, church groups and have also just recently done a big Bar Mitzvah with over 70 adults and kids making their own candles which was fantastic!! If you’re interested in a private event then just flick me an email or give me a call and we can go from there. Thanks Adele.

I’m always there for a follow up phone call or email though if anyone has any questions. I’ve even had peoplenumerousgoonto start their own candle making businesses too, which has been really satisfying knowing that what I’m teaching is really working!! Can you tell us about the candles? What types of ingredients and fragrances do you use? There are so many different types of wax you can use to make candles, but I just use 100% soy wax at my classes as it’s easy to get hold of and probably the main wax that you will see used in most candles. All my colours and fragrances adhere to Australian standards, and it’s so important to use the correct glassware, wax, colour, and fragrance when making your candles as using the wrong ones can cause safety issues. I’ll tell you where you can purchase all the products from at the class, including wax, containers, wicks, etc.

The main aim though is to make it a fun and enjoyable experience, and even better is that you get to go home with some great candles that you’ve made yourself.

COVER DISH Tasty treats from Stef Beachstone DINING GUIDE

Killer Queen Experience Saturday, 29 October 7:00 pm Are you ready to be brought into the Killer Queen Experience that will bring a smile (or a tear) to any Queen fan? Their signature 2-hour live show has toured to sold out shows in the UK, Norway, Singapore, Russia, and India, and every city in Australia, and shared billing with the likes of Jeff Beck, Foreigner, Journey, Twisted Sister, Thin Lizzy, and Kelly Rowland. This show features Queen’s greatest hits, including – Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, Radio Ga Ga, Another One Bites the Dust, and many more.

Doors open 7pm | Tickets $35.00 + BF pre-sold

28 COFFS COAST focus Sat 29th oct

Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Tribute Show: 15th October, doors open at 8.30pm

La Cantina Fiesta Move aside Taco Tuesday, there’s a new food fiesta in town. For 2 hours from 3 to 5 pm, sit back and enjoy all-you-can-eat and drink tacos, frozen margs, coronas, and sangria.

Bring your wild heart, your gypsy spirit and all the twirls you can muster as we bring all the songs, the outfits and the signature moves of Stevie and the band.

There’ll also be live music to top off the afternoon!

On the first Sunday of every month starting from August 7th.

-HOTELMOONEE BEACH

29 SATURDAYFRIDAYOPEN&

Prophecy & Chance is the main theme in the Behind the Lines exhibition 2021 and in these uncertain times, where we can expect the unexpected, it is very appropriate as it provides an insight into the year in Australian politics.

In 2021 a handful of issues dominated the headlines: the pandemic and vaccine rollout, the treatment of women in our democracy, climate change and government policy. Luckily, our artists were on hand to read the tea leaves and cut through the spin, alongside the all-too-familiar stories of leadership jockeying and funding scandals.

The travelling exhibition Behind the Lines, developed and presented by the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, features a broad selection of political cartoons and features 105 political cartoons by 38 of Australia’s best political cartoonists.

Political Cartoonist of the Year - Glen Le Lievre Judges singled out Glen Le Lievre for his ability to wordlessly express complex issues and emotions. In 2020 he broke new ground as the first cartoonist to show digital works in Behind the Lines. Based in Sydney, Le Lievre publishes online through Patreon, in The Australian Financial Review and The Australian, among others. In addition to some talented familiar faces led by Glen, Behind the Lines is introducing several first-time contributors into the mix who reflect our dynamic democracy. We hope your time consulting these ‘oracles’ helps you make sense of, and maybe even laugh at, 2021’s mixed fortunes.

ATTRIBUTION: Behind the Lines is a travelling exhibition developed by Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, proudly supported by the National Cartoon Collection Institutions Touring and Outreach program, an Australian Government program aiming to improve access to the national collections for all Australians.

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Behind the Lines

THEBEHINDLINES 5TH AUGUST - 18TH OCTOBER EXHIBITION

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 33 ‘Sharp wit...an outstanding event’ Clothesline Review Glam AdelaideStage WhispersKids in Adelaide Macca'suionrnta GROUPMUNROTHEMT G maccasjuniorgrant.com.au Each month a number of grant recipients are chosen based on their commitment in the areas of sporting, academic or community service. Coffs Harbour • Kempsey • Nambucca • Grafton Proudly supporting our local community The Munro group of McDonald's Lachlan Ashlee Clarence ConservatoriumValley Lachlan is competing in the combined High School TasmanAssociationSquashTrans-SeriesasapartoftheNSWteamthisAugust. Ashlee has just been selected in the Under 15's 2022 NSW hockey team. He will use his grant to purchase a new hockey stick. The music1000reachesConservatoriummorethanstudentseachweek,deliveringandeducationprogramstomanyschoolsintheClarenceValley.

Over the last 15 years music fans have travelled to the Mid Coast region to not only enjoy the very best in music but also take in the beauty of this unspoilt coastal region of NSW. The town of Wingham is located in the Manning Valley, nestled in the Barrington Coast. It is 11km from the town of Taree, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Manning River and expansive National Parks. The town of Wingham on the NSW Mid Coast will once again welcome visitors from across the state, and indeed Australia, from Friday 14th October to Sunday 16th October with the welcome return of the Wingham Music Festival and a stellar line-up worthy of any grand music festival in Australia.

WINGHAM MUSIC 14 \16 OCTOBER 2022 WINGHAMMUSICFEST.COM.AU 2022 ARTIST LINE UP CENTRALWINGHAMPARKNEWSOUTHWALES THE WAIFS DARYL BRAITHWAITE THE BLACK SORROWS  THE WOLFE BROTHERS BILL CHAMBERS  DOM TURNER’S RURAL BLUES PROJECT DARREN JACK BAND  19TWENTY  SWAMP STOMPERS BLUES ARCADIA  KRISTEN LEE MORRIS & THE DIRTY SNAKES HURRICANE FALL  IMOGEN CLARK  SALT & STEEL ANDY TOOMBS  JAKE DAVEY BAND  JODI MARTIN GHOST ROAD  HARRY’S LOOKOUT  BIG FINS SOUTHERN HOLD  GLEN MEAD  LINDA MIZZI TRIO JACKSON JAMES  WINGSONG  WORKSHOP TRIO MISS GRACE MUSIC  BUSKER WINNER - TRAVIS

The Festival atmosphere is brought to life with stilt walkers, circus performers, belly dancers, and you can participate in yoga, tai chi and indigenous storytelling, while children can play in the “Kids Zone’’.

Confirmed artists include The Black Sorrows, Darryl Braithwaite and The Waifs headlining Friday, Saturday and Sunday night respectively. Other artists to appear include Bill Chambers, The Wolfe Brothers, Dom Turner, Imogen Clarke, 19-Twenty and so many more. A full listing of artists is available on the website. Festival Coordinator Donna Ballard says, “After a two year break, we were determined to reshape and refresh the Festival and this line-up truly is a dream come true for us!” Since its inception in 2007 the Festival has grown to become a much loved annual event in the community calendar. The Festival is this year returning to its place of origin on Central Park, a location that allows visitors to immerse in the town centre with cafes, boutiques and heritage listed buildings surrounding the Festival site. Festival attendees can bring their chair to the expansive marquee and relax in front of the main stage to listen to more than 30 acts featuring over 100 musicians over the three brilliant days of music. Festival Coordinator Donna adds, “They could also throw a rug under the bright flag sails and sip on drinks from our local featured distillers and absorb the vibe of the music and Alongsidesurrounds.”the plethora of live music, the festival also features artisans showcasing their handmade wares and artworks, workshops are held across the weekend and visitors enjoy the best in food and delicacies from local businesses from the Mid Coast NSW region.

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Scan here to book Nothing cosier in winter than settling into a warm seat, kicking back to some lovely vibes & plenty of chocolate!! On the amazing cocktail menu at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this little choc & macadamia gem. With a perfect blend of vanilla infused vodka, chocolate liqueur, Brookie’s Mac liqueur, fresh milk, choc sauce & crushed Flake, this stunning little treat is guaranteed to satisfy all your cravings!! Beware though, it’s almost impossible to have just one !!

CHOC MAC MARTINI

PH 6699 2623 2 BEACH WAY, SAPPHIRE BEACH OPEN BREAKFASTFOR & LUNCH from Wednesday to Sunday from 7:15 am@stefbeachstone email mail@stefbeachstone.com.au BOOK SPECIALCHRISTMASWEDDING,YOURPARTYOREVENTWITHUS

Italian families love to socialise and celebrate together. At Maria’s we see our customers as extended family. Our newly refurbished restaurant offers a family-friendly dining experience that truly brings a touch of Italy to Coffs Harbour. It’s the perfect place for families and friends to gather and indulge in good company, good food and good wine… the Italian way. Tell us about your menu, and what do you find is the most popular dish for customers? Maria’s menu offers all your favourite Italian comfort foods with a modern twist, and a focus on fresh local produce.Oneof our most popular dishes is the Whole Garlic King Prawns pan seared in garlic confit butter, Italian herbs & white wine, served on a thick slice of ciabatta to soak up all the delicious sauce. Our signature slow braised Lamb Ragu Pappardelle topped with mint gremolata & freshly shaved pecorino cheese is also a favourite.Pizzalovers can delve into the Signorina Porcellino with chorizo, bacon, pancetta, red onion, capsicum and basil or try the Agnello with our slow braised lamb, roasted capsicum, red onion, cherry tomatoes, topped with our house made mint yogurt & fresh mint. And of course, an Italian meal wouldn’t be complete without a divine dolce of deep-fried vanilla cream cannoli and berry compote or our Limoncello Tart with passionfruit coulis, crushed meringue & fresh strawberries. Maria’s has a big history here in business – can you tell us more? Maria’s is synonymous with the iconic Jetty strip. We have been serving delicious Italian inspired food to locals and visitors alike for over 35 years. After a 12-month hiatus, we reopened in May 2022 and were overwhelmed by the support from our customers old and new Maria’s Italian Restaurant is conveniently located at the popular Jetty strip and has recently had a new make over and relocation for all dine-in customers so Focus wanted to find out more…

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What specialMaria’smakessoand a must do when looking to dine out?

MARIA’S RESTAURANT ITALIAN

One of our most popular dishes is the Whole Garlic King Prawns pan seared in garlic confit butter, Italian herbs & white wine, served on a thick slice of ciabatta to soak up all the delicious sauce.

COFFS COAST focus 39 when we announced we were back! While our location on the Jetty strip is new, you can still expect the same delicious Italian fare just like Nonna makes, with a new ambience to dineFoodin.

Ordering is easy with the Maria’s Restaurant App. You can download the App from our website and have Maria’s at your fingertips. The App allows you to book, order takeaway, purchase gift cards and even earn free pizzas! Home delivery is also available through DoorDash. Father’s Day is fast approaching in September – should people book in quickly as the free beer is a great extra! Bookings are always recommended, but especially on special days like Father’s Day. All Dads will receive a free beer with their meal, and we are open for lunch and dinner so bring the family and spoil Dad this Father’s Day. How can people find out more?

Maria’s Italian Restaurant is open for dinner from 4pm every day and for lunch from 12pm Wednesday-Sunday. Visit our website and follow us on our social pages for updates on our Chef’s weekly specials.

Besides dine in, people can order online and there is also an App – tell us more. For the nights you want to stay in, our extensive takeaway menu offers all your pizza and pasta favourites, as well as our house specialties like Eggplant Caponata with tomato, capsicum, olives, caper ragu & toasted Ciabatta, or the Beef Braciole thinly sliced beef stuffed with basil, pancetta & pecorino.

DoorDash.availabledeliveryHomeisalsothrough

Maria’s Italian Restaurant 384A Harbour Dr Coffs Harbour 02 6691 go.wowapps.com/mariasitalianrestaurmariasrestaurant.com.au3225mariasitaliancoffsharbour@mariascoffsharbour

The App allows you to book, order takeaway, purchase gift cards and even earn free pizzas!

equals love and tradition in Italian culture. If you enjoy Italian food and eating, you’re going to love visiting us at Marias! Have you found that after a tumultuous few years that people are excited to dine out again? What is your feedback? Covid most definitely changed the landscape of hospitality. In general, people are excited to be dining out again, socialising with friends and family, going on date nights and enjoying the ambience local restaurants have to offer. We have loved welcoming our customers back to Maria’s in a slightly more intimate venue where patrons can experience excellent customer service, quality food at reasonable prices and a great selection of wines or a delicious Italian cocktail.

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Amy Hetherington stumbled into a career as a comedian and has been killing it in the standup scene since. She will be in Coffs this September performing her latest show ‘Crying Over Spilt Milk’ and we can’t wait to check it out and have a good laugh!

After the initial stand-up gig where did it go from there and how does one prepare to be a comedian? I’ve been doing comedy for the past 8 years. I just kept rocking up and organising local gigs. I soon realised I was onto something with my stories and comedy style so I started touring festivals and putting on interstate shows. I do a lot of MCing and hosting events in Darwin so the comedy built in nicely to it all. Preparing to be a comedian is a tricky one because everyone’s process is different, but I think it’s about looking around you, seeing things that could be turned into humour and then working on ways to say those things in your own voice. The best comedians have a unique take or style and I think the most important part of stand up is knowing what that is. Who do you think your comedy routine is tailored to?

Hey Amy, you’re heading to Coffs to perform your comedy routine on 22 September. What can we expect from the night? I’m so excited to get to Coffs! It’s my first time there! The show is called Crying Over Spilt Milk and it’s a high energy overshare about the pain, joy, and madness of having a new baby. I wrote the show in the sleepless mayhem of having a newborn to laugh about some of the challenges of breastfeeding, birth and new parent life. You can expect a lot of silly stories, some truth bombs about parenting and an appreciation for nipples. It’s a show for parents, would-be parents, or neverwould-I-ever parents (found it’s an effective contraception). Your start to comedy was quite unconventional. How did you first end up on stage? I was doing Ocsober as a fundraiser for a local charity and my gimmick was to ‘dare me to do something you’d never do sober’. I got up to all sorts of mischief and one person said they would never do stand-up comedy sober. So, they put down $200 for the charity and I got up at an open mic gig and had a crack. Lucky, I didn’t bomb, and I loved it. Haven’t stopped since (now it’s my career… who would have thought).

This show, in particular, is a great time for parents or soon-to-be parents because they’ve been through the trenches of newborn life and pregnancy. Comedy is best when it’s relatable. But my other shows have been more general in the topics covered. I have a lot of material about living in Darwin and all the chaos that delivers.Ithink my comedy is good for people that like their humour cheeky (not controversial), high energy and positive – a lot of my style is taking things and finding the silver lining to them. Your stand up has recently received awards. Tell us what you won and how it felt to receive that recognition?

The show I’m bringing to Coffs ‘Crying Over Spilt Milk’ won a weekly comedy award at the Adelaide Fringe this year. This is a wildly exciting one for me because the Adelaide Fringe is massive and there are hundreds of comedy shows there. To be selected as one of the best was insane. Especially because I was touring the show with my baby on my hip. A lot of people told me I couldn’t do it, so there was a heap of validation in receiving that award. What do you get personally out of getting joy from people and making them laugh? I think making people laugh or giving them a moment of joy/entertainment away from

HETH ERINGT ON

COFFS COAST focus 41 their lives is my purpose. Everyone has something they’re good at and a lot of people say ‘ooohh comedy that must be so hard’ but I’ve found it’s come naturally to me to entertain and talk to people.It’sareal gift to make someone laugh, especially these days when there are so many stresses and things that have made life hard. I never lose appreciation for audiences and the opportunity to entertain someone. I’m very lucky I get to do what I do.

The show is called Crying Over Spilt Milk and it’s a high overshareenergy about the pain, joy, and madness of having a new baby.

Crying Over Spilt Milk is being presented by Coffs Comedy at the Dark Arts Café. Thursday 22 September 2022 5:30pm-9pm Ticket price includes dinner. I’m supported in the show by Ben Stevenson who is one of my favourite funny humans on the Ticketsplanet. trybooking.com/CBPRU And follow me on socials if you like :D amyhetheringtonAmyHetheringtonComedy

You have spent the past year touring with a baby on board. How have you been managing the balance of stage and mum life? Hahaha… managing. That’s so funny because some days I’m treading water. It’s been a lot of work but I think the thing that keeps me going is how proud I am after every show and how excited I am for my little baby Ruby so be part of this life with me. The balance is made easier by the wonderful support I have with my family and friends… but it’s been an exhausting year. I think every time there’s a headspacethatwho’saudiencehappyorsomeoneheardajokevalidatestheirasanew parent… that makes it all worth it. How has the routine been received so far? Very well. I am so proud of this show. It’s my best writing and tightest show and I think it really connects with people. I’ve been doing the show for lots of mums groups and brand new parents and for some of them it’s the first ‘adult’ thing they’ve done since having a baby… and those audiences have really loved it. Not just for the jokes but for the night out. Where can people find out more about the show?

JulesJen

You recently crossed paths again after not seeing each other for a long time, how did that happen? We ran into each other at John Logan Entertainment last December, whilst discussing our performances for the upcoming Coffs Carols. You both have years of experience in the music industry, can you tell us about some of the things you have each worked on?

producer, engineer and slide guitar player Gary Brown, a prominent and familiar face around Australia’s country music scene. Gary plays lap-steel and dobro and has introduced the beautiful sounds of steel guitar on Julie-Ann’s recordings.Jenhasover three decades of performing in bands, duos and solo performances, including Musical Theatre and recording. What are some of the highlights of your music careers so far? Jules: Recording 4 EP’s and a full-length

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We first met at Narrabeen, on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, 35 years ago. We had just finished school, Jen was singing back-up vocals with a local band – The Notations.

Julie-Ann is a versatile performer –singing and playing, writing, performing and entertaining these past few decades, in solo, duo, trio and full band line-up. Her former musical identity ‘Alchemy’ saw her performing up and down the North Coast of NSW for 10 years, including 4 years running at the Tamworth Music Festival and creating her first full length album with Midnight Oil’s Jim Moginie. She fronted a Bluegrass/Country band for a few years, performing shows at Tamworth Music Festival, as well smaller festivals around Sydney. JulieAnn did a five-month stint last year, performing 20 shows, in a local production of the ABBA musical - MAMMA MIA!!! She created her most recent musical identity ‘Looking for Lucy’ a few years back, after relocating from Sydney and has since been performing her original material, described as “Meadow Rock”, regularly around the Coffs Coast. She’s been in and out of the studio the last few years, working on two separate EP’s and collaborating with a few different musicians and producers. From dabbling in some pop/ rock productions backdownAdrianactor/writer/producerwithLee;tolayingsomestrippedrecordingswith

JENNIFER AARTS & JULIE-ANN GLUR She’s been in and out of the studio the last few years, working on two separate EP’s and collaborating with a few producers.musiciansdifferentand Jules & Jen, aka JulieAnn Glur and Jennifer Aarts, actually met many years ago in Sydney and by chance their paths crossed again locally just recently. They reconnected over their love of music and performance and their duo act came together.

Hey Jules and Jen! Can you tell us about how you first met?

COFFS COAST focus album. Playing on various stages at Tamworth Music Festival. One of my favourite gigs was the Copacabana Carols, where we played on the back of a truck with Kasey Chambers at Copacabana Beach, to a crowd of over 2000 people. Finally doing my first musical last year – Mamma Mia!! Jen: The performances in the Coffs City Centre leading up to the Elton John concerts here in Coffs Harbour, was one of my favourite performances to date. We were later told that Elton did a drive-by and gave us the “thumbs up”!!! I also absolutely loved my DIVA solos in the musical GREASE, where I performed a “Gender Bender” version of ‘Beauty School Dropout’. How did the idea for your current duo come about? We were rehearsing for the Sawtell Fun Day, which didn’t go ahead due to COVID this year and Jen mentioned that she’d been asked to do a wedding in March, and did I want to accompany her. I said “yes, I’d love to”. We really enjoyed the gig, got fantastic feedback, and decided this is what we’d like to do together. We both feel really passionate about where we find ourselves musically right now and really look forward to sharing this performance experience together. You do a lot of private gigs, can you tell us about the kinds of events you cater to?

Wedding or any other Ceremonies, House Concerts, Funerals, Corporate and Special Events. You both have done so many different forms of music and performance over the years, what made you decide to head in this direction with your duo? The occasional Wedding ceremonies and Funerals are nothing new for us. We have both individually been doing these gigs for over 20 years. Weddings are always happy; everyone feels the love. Being a part of this joyful vibe and energy is always inspiring, hopeful and uplifting as a performer. House Concerts are fun, intimate and always a great opportunity to connect and engage with our audience. What we are offering will bring something magical to your wedding ceremony, house concert or event and something reflective, beautiful and uplifting for your funeral service/ceremony or memorial. How would you describe the kind of music you play and the vibe you guys have?

We can swing between off-beat, up-beat, sweet, powerful, light & easy. Pop, rock, folk, ballads, country, jazz, blues and more!! Jen has often been described as the female Elvis, Elton and Frank, due to her rich tones and powerful, emotive voice. Jules’ sound has been described as original and dynamic, with distinct shades of light and dark. Seductively sweet, yet powerful, her vocals have been compared to Emmylou Harris, Chrissy Hynde and Joni Mitchell. Together, our voices blend in a unique way, and between us, we carry a broad vocal range. We cover an extensive range of songs and music, catering for a broad range of musical tastes and styles, including originals and time-honoured classics. We can tailor the songs specifically for you. Acoustic sets and custom soundtracks blend for an intimate to upbeat performance. Where can people find out more about Jules & Jen or get in touch? Follow us on Instagram @julesnjenmusic We can send you a link to preview a promo video via email julieann.glur@gmail.com Give us a call. Jen - 0428 550 413 and Jules - 0407 718 650 We’re really excited about this new project and looking forward to offering you something special for your ceremony or event. Thanks Ladies. performancesThe in the Coffs City Centre leading up to the Elton John concerts here in Coffs Harbour, was one of my date.performancesfavouriteto

Ellie Watts wrote from her perspective and raised some great points here about being bisexual and how that is perceived in society and I wanted to share:

“Bisexual people face numerous stereotypes and negative assumptions. I should know, I’ve heard them all. Nearly 30% of bisexual respondents report hearing or being made personally aware of negative commentary, jokes or innuendo targeting the bisexual community and other LGBTIQ people within the last year.

with

Bisexual Visibility Day (also known as Celebrate Bisexuality Day) was first officially observed on 1999, at the International Lesbian and Gay Association Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa and is celebrated on the same day this year.

44 COFFS COAST focus focus contributor.

PFLAG from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

23rd September

whoIcons ‘Bicons’hadcome out as bisexual, such as David Bowie and Freddie Mercury, consistently had their identities erased.

People can often feel pressured to fit in with society’s conventional ideas of being male or female. Those who don’t fit the mould can be subjected to ridicule, intimidation and even physical abuse. Even though there is an increasing acceptance of LGBTIQ+ people in society and greater visibility in the media and public life, many LGBTIQ+ people still experience discrimination, harassment and violence at work, school and in social Discriminationsituations.can take the form of: • obvious acts of prejudice and discrimination (e.g. someone who is open about being transgender being refused employment or •promotion)moresubtle, but no less harmful, discrimination that reinforces negative stereotypes and feelings of difference (e.g. use of the word ‘gay’ as a derogatory term).

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 SAM DAWSON

“Growing up, I also never saw myself in anyone else. I wasn’t aware of any television or movie characters that were bisexual. Or if they were, they were portrayed in a negative light. Icons ‘Bicons’ who had come out as bisexual, such as David Bowie and Freddie Mercury, consistently had their identities erased. Bi-erasure is a pervasive problem in which the existence or legitimacy of bisexuality (either in general or in regard to an individual) is questioned or denied outright.”

“I was born and raised in a small country town approximately 80km west of Brisbane, with Ipswich being the closest major hub. I remember Ipswich being (in)famous in the media on several occasions. As I navigated my teenage years, I always felt like I was different to everyone else or that I didn’t fit in. I could never answer the one question that was constantly tormenting my thoughts – why? “Now at 27, I’ve realised that sexuality wasn’t discussed in the environment I grew up in. The occasions that I did hear someone talk about bisexuality were always negative. I was told that bisexual people were just going through a phase, confused or greedy. I was told that bisexual people (especially women) were promiscuous or more likely to cheat.

It’s so important to be mindful of our fellow community members and loved ones and I would love if we could all STOP. THINK.

RESPECT before we speak. Words hurt and even the most unlikely people do not realise how hurtful words can be.

I think my love for creating beautiful things with wood is built in, as my father was a wooden toy maker when I was young. He passed away when I was 7 so his creations and how they have lasted have really made an impact on me. Around 4 years ago is when I found my passion. We have a lot of large trees surrounding our home which we need to trim regularly. Most people would see unsightly green waste and grab a woodchipper but I could see so much potential and natural beauty within those branches. From there I started to steal my partner’s tools, and O’Donnell

Julie O’Donnell is a creative mover and shaker who uses scrap timber to create beautiful pieces including everlasting floral designs and children’s toys.

Working with children and dipping my toe into creating my own natural toys was the combo that set me on the course to where I am today. I am a big lover of creating beauty with the eclectic balance of colours and textures so both Let Them Play Toys and Branch & Bloom naturally evolved from there. Many of your creations are made using wood, when did you first discover this as a creative medium and what do you enjoy about using it?

Hi Julie. Have you always enjoyed making and creating? I sure have, my wild, colourful and creative mind has kept me busy from the get-go. After I finished school, I studied Interior Design in Sydney and over the years I have explored many different creative fields including being a Family Day Care Educator.

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I am a big lover of creating beauty with the eclectic balance of colours and textures so both Let Them Play Toys and Branch & Bloom naturally evolved from there.

COFFS COAST focus 47 one Christmas he brought me a scroll saw and from there I’ve never looked back. As a family day care educator, I always found it hard to find natural wooden resources and toys that weren’t covered in varnish and paint, or unbelievably expensive. My passion for creating with wood has continued to grow, creating beautiful things from the wood that people often disregard or overlook. I just love to work with the flaws, grain and character of each branch or slab of recycled motherperfectlyhighlightingwood,howimperfectnatureis. You create very unique floral arrangements, using both dried and wooden blooms. Can you tell us how the idea for this came about for you? I hated this trend of purchasing plastic plants and flowers, as well as the habit of spending money on unsustainable floral arrangements that have a very short natural life – so I knew there must be a better option. But there really wasn’t! Plus, let’s be honest a big part of Branch & Bloom was very self-serving. I am too busy to keep indoor plants alive, and there was no way I was going to bring those imposter plastic plants in, so I used my resources in our Let Them Play workshop and created some pretty blooms from sustainable wood instead. I realised I could offer this alternative to others and the concept grew from there. Continued over...

We have a lot of large trees surrounding our home which we need to trim regularly. Most people would see unsightly green waste and grab a woodchipper but I could see so much potential and natural beauty within those branches.

Can you tell us a bit about the process of creating your wooden flowers?

I’ll start with inspiration and pull together some different concepts on my computer until I get the right feel or look for what I am trying to create. It’s much harder than you would think to make a flat 3mm thick plywood flower organic and natural. From there I will prototype and redesign or make a design adjustment. Next is to play with different dyes and choose which colours it will be made in. I am a very spontaneous creator, which would drive most manufacturers crazy – as I don’t generally follow a process (but I am learning to). I generally will create a new season collection, or when I feel like I have a missing piece in our range. What inspires your new designs and combinations?

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A lot of inspiration comes from the natural beauty of each season. I am always drawn to our beautiful Australian natives, organic shapes and the eclectic earthy colour palette found within nature, so they are always a key part to any of my designs. Often a new design idea hits me at very random times, and I’ve got to write them down before they disappear. For me, the flow of ideas isn’t the problem but in fact reining in how many pop up and which ones I should run with. You’re known for your ‘Let Them Play’ children’s toys, which are also handcrafted designs. With the success of that business what made you decide to start your Branch & Bloom project as well? I often think back and question my own sanity when I decided to create another company, but there’s a big part of me (thanks ADHD) that will give anything a go when a new idea hits me. I wanted to inspire people to create beautiful floral art for themselves and those they love that stands the test of time and can be endlessly reused and recreated. Often a new design idea hits me at very random times, and I’ve got to write them down before they disappear. For me, the flow of ideas isn’t the problem but in fact reining in how many pop up and which ones I should run with.

Adults often forget how to play even though we all have a cheeky and creative inner child just waiting to bust out, so being able to create your own arrangements is a fun way to get a bit creative.

Adults often forget how to play even though we all have a cheeky and creative inner child just waiting to bust out, so being able to create your own arrangements is a fun way to get a bit creative. A big part of your drive when creating your pieces is to create beautiful things that reduce environmental impact. In what ways do you work towards this with your floral designs?

COFFS COAST focus 49

I find it really sometimesoverwhelmingwhen aiming to be eco-focused in every area of life, so from the get-go we made our commitment to sustainability and looking after Mother Nature.Iknew that if we could focus on doing our best as a company, alongside creating beautiful eco-focused alternatives that could help others make better choices, then this is my part in ensuring our future is better than our past. We are not yet perfectly eco-aligned, but we try our best at every stage of the process and within the business to respect Mother Nature and ensure that our practices are sustainable. We commit to getting better at this every day. Where can people see your designs and find out more? We are proudly a part of the Kaleidoscope Store in Coffs Central, and have a Pick n Mix Bloom Bar where you can create your own eco arrangements.Onlineisabigger range: branchandbloom.com.au We also have just over a dozen new stockists and Bloom Bars popping up across Australia and the US.

Plus Let Them Play Toys is stocked in many stores across Australia including our local gem The Creative Toy Shop – plus online: letthemplaytoys.com To keep up with all the behind the scenes adventures follow along on Instagram. Thanks Julie.

I am always drawn to our beautiful Australiannatives, organic shapes and the eclectic earthycolour palette found within nature, so they arealways a key part to any of my designs.

50 COFFS COAST focus Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements June 2022 coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6652 6500 GET YOUR VOUCHERS NOW Regional Seniors Travel StayCreativeActiveParentsCardNSWKidsKidsNSW$100$200$250$250$50 You can apply by QRorservice.nsw.gov.auvisitingbyscanningthecode The NSW Government is supporting families and stimulating our economy by encouraging people to get out and about. You could be eligible for

The vulnerability of our food supply is under threat with two serious biosecurity issues. The first relates to Varroa mite and honey bees. One in every three bites of food we eat are of foods that need to be pollinated by insects, primarily honey bees.

The message to travellers is simple: if you’re heading to Bali or somewhere that may have been affected by FMD for a holiday – or know someone who is – please do the right thing when you return to Australia.

The value of honey bees as pollinators is extremely important and without honey bees the range of food products will dramatically diminish. There is a significant cost involved in Varroa management and it’s in everyone’s interests to eradicate the mites and stop their Aspread.fewmonths ago, Varroa mites were detected in the sentinel hives near the Port of Newcastle resulting in biosecurity measures being put into place. This meant that some parts of the state were locked down for hive movements, and infected hives have been euthanised along with surrounding hives. (Sentinel hives are closely monitored honey bee colonies used for early detection of diseases and pests, including Varroa Thismite.)incursion has resulted in a very stressful period for local beekeepers and for the farmers who rely on Thethem.other biosecurity issue we are facing is foot-andmouth disease (FMD). FMD is a very serious and highly contagious viral disease of animals that affects Angoats,buffalo,animalscloven-hoofedincludingcattle,camels,sheep,deer,andpigs.FMDincursioncould have a generational impact to our farmers and our food supply with some estimates putting the losses at $80 billion as well as many farmers walking off the land for Rightgood.now, our returning travellers have a makeor-break role to play in making sure FMD stays out of our country and that our livestock industry remains protected. The message to travellers is simple: if you’re heading to Bali or somewhere that may have been affected by FMD for a holiday – or know someone who is – please do the right thing when you return to Australia. That means declaring where you’ve been, making sure any clothes and shoes you bring in are clean and free from soil and manure, avoiding encounters with livestock on your travels and staying away from farms or anywhere there might be livestock for seven days when you get home.

Being an island nation has meant that Australia has a slightly easier job of enforcing biosecurity protocols, but it’s up to all of us to ensure that those protocols are respected so our farmers and food producers are given every chance possible so they can continue to feed us efficiently, and affordably. SINGH STATE OF PLAY

COFFS COAST focus 51

with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH

Varroa mites are the most serious pest of honey bees worldwide and infect bees in every major beekeeping area of the world except Australia. Left untreated, a Varroa mite infestation will kill a bee colony and all wild and untreated colonies will eventually die off. This means that beekeepers will need to very carefully manage their hives to detect and treat mites. The most significant impact could be the death of all untreated honey bee colonies across the landscape. This will seriously reduce the positive impact of honey bees in the environment of pollinating a range of horticultural, broadacre crop and pastoral plants.

52 COFFS COAST focus

Welcome Dental have been out and about in the school communities providing Oral Health Education to Preschool and primary school (K-2) aged children across the Coffs Coast. Erskine Dental Supplies in Macksville partnered with us to assist in this community project.

Welcome Dental Tooth Fairy by heading to our website www.welcomedental.com.au and if you want to book a oral health education visit, please call us on (02) 6655 5800. Welcome Dental – your locally owned dental clinic in Urunga! We will turn your frown upside down.

Over the past few months

At Welcome Dental we believe that early intervention gives children the best outcome for their overall health and wellbeing. We are excited to see that by completing these school visits, children are going home and talking to their parents about choosing healthy lunchbox options, they are understanding the importance of brushing morning and night, 2 minutes at a time and they are looking forward to their next dental visit (in some cases their first). You can access information for children, tooth fairy letters and also write to the

e have been so fortunate to be able to connect with 1064 young people since March! That means we have given out 1064 free toothbrushes and provided 1064 oral health messages filled with information on healthy foods and drinks, toothbrushing techniques and about the dentist and dental visits. The visits were interactive and informative, our Welcome Dental Tooth Fairies shared the message along with our Oral Health Therapist Susan Waldorf. Our aim is to improve the oral health and wellbeing of children in the Mid North Coast region by integrating the importance of healthy oral habits into their daily routine. Oral Health is universally regarded as fundamental to overall health, wellbeing, and quality of life. A healthy mouth enables children to eat and speak without pain, discomfort, or embarrassment. Therefore, by teaching children early in life the importance of oral hygiene, healthy food options and regular routine visits to the dentist we are providing lifetime skills to ensure lower decay rates and better overall health.

54 COFFS COAST focus We’ll turn that down.upsidefrown Services. Late AirFlowBulkChildrensOrthodonticOnlineOpennightsSaturdaysbookingstreatmentstherapistbillingCDBS Meet The Team. Dr Sharon Marinucci Dr Oleg Pushkarev Dr Claire Greer Wendy Summerill Jessica Cantrill Susan Waldorf Phone: (02) 6655 5800 Email: Website:info@welcomedental.com.auwww.welcomedental.com.au MARKETING AND ADVERTISING AWARD Winner WELCOME DENTAL

COFFS COAST focus 55 PHARMA LABS

If you’re looking to enhance your cognitive function for any occasion when you want to be dialled in with laser focus and have total mental clarity you need to try their product ‘Mental’! The ultimate cognitive enhancing nootropic, with an awesome range of flavours, and a brilliant panel of ingredients it will not disappoint! It will also support your mood and energy levels without the jitters and caffeine crash. Weight loss can be a challenging task to undertake. Why not give yourself the best chance to achieve amazing results by adding in their medium stim fat burner, ‘Meltz’, into your routine? With a modest kick of slow-release natural caffeine that won’t leave you feeling depleted later, dual acting thermogenic fat burning ingredients this could be the product for you optimise your chances at achieving your fat loss goals! It has 4 fruity flavours to choose from that will help satisfy your sweet tooth and balance out your mood and energy levels.

Finally, if you want a pre-workout to help take your workouts to new heights come in and ask us about ‘Mayhem’. A high-stim pre-workout, that will unleash a new level of naturalsessions.thesmashandenergy,electromagneticperformance,resultstohelpyouthroughevenhardestoftrainingLoadedwithcaffeinesources that are designed to help lessen the caffeine crash that most high stims are known for. This will increase blood flow while you’re training, allowing you to push harder for longer and smash your Pharmagoals!Labs don’t muck around when it comes to thisproductsstoreyourformulations!theirKeepeyespeeledinforexcitingnewcomingfromcompany! VISIT US IN STORE: Mention code: FOCUSxNW for 10% your next purchase with us. SEE US AT OUR NEXT EVENT: Gym September 3rd, ICN September 10th BONUS: Spend $150 in store in AUGUST and SEPTEMBER to receive a gift pack worth over $80 ARE YOU LOOKING TO TAKE YOUR SUPPLEMENT GAME TO THE NEXT LEVEL? Come in and ask our brilliant team about the Pharma Labs range! Weight loss can be a challenging task to undertake. Why not give yourself the best chance to achieve amazing results by adding in their medium stim fat burner, ‘meltz’, into your routine?

Genesis

LIGHT!SPOT-

56 COFFS COAST focus

CONVERSATIONSCOURAGEOUS

Offer practical assistance such as making the appointment or arranging the meeting, and offer to be their support person to accompany them to appointments if they wish.

Counselling engages the person to reflect on life situations and relationships. While this can be challenging for all concerned, it is a practical and significant step to resolving mental health challenges. Seeking help through treatment assists the person in re-engaging with the positive and good things in their life.

Julie MCouns,ThomasBPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach) Member of Australian Counselling Association Member of AUSPATH, WPATH

The most frequently asked questions are, how do I recognise or notice the signs of mental health struggle in family, friends and colleagues? And how do you support someone with a mental health concern, condition or disorder? Trust your gut instinct We know the people in our lives very well; we notice that when things are different, it may be a change in what they are saying or doing. We may not know what it is, but we get a sense of something not quite right, trust that gut instinct and take the time to ask them, “Are you OK?” Reaching out to someone shows them they are cared about and supported. It can be difficult for someone to acknowledge their mental health challenges; but we can all make a difference by starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you have noticed; this may help your friend, family member or colleague.

Family, friends and colleagues are an effective and necessary support system for someone experiencing a challenging time. It is essential to know what to say and do; however, it is not always easy to find the right words to start a conversation or when someone discloses that they are having a hard time with their mental health or might be thinking about suicide.

References and Additional Information: arafmi.com.au/carersaustralia.com.aucarersnsw.org.auau.reachout.comheadspace.org.aublackdoginstitute.org.auruok.org.au(Association of Relatives and Friends of the Mentally carergateway.gov.auIll) butterfly.org.au

If your friend, family member or colleague is not comfortable sharing their feelings with you or is open to seeking help, you can: Share information sourced from health professionals. Share e-mental health resources.

Mental health challenges in young people, particularly adolescents, should be taken seriously. This age group is particularly vulnerable to developing mental health illnesses. Provide an uninterrupted, stress-free time and setting to talk with your child. Suggest they might feel better if they get help.

As a first step, suggest they speak with a friend or relative they are comfortable talking with.

Suggest a visit to the General Practitioner, school counsellor or other mental health professionals.

Children and adolescents

Treatment The treatment process is integral to supporting someone with mental health challenges. Treatment differs and may include medication, psychologists, and counsellors.

September brings the national “Are you OK?” day (Thursday 8th September 2022) dedicated to reminding everyone that it is not just one day, but every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” to support those struggling with life’s challenges.

Share self-help books that have relevant strategies. If you are concerned and believe their mental health has deteriorated, or you think they are at risk of harming themselves or others, seek guidance from a health professional.

A person experiencing mental health challenges requires a supportive network of people. Family members, carers and friends are also impacted and are under stress. Part of caring for others is to care for yourself, to prevent you from getting physically rundown and assist you in dealing with the thoughts, feelings and emotions of caring for someone with a mental health condition.

FROM THE with JULIE THOMAS

COUNSELLINGSURFACE

Helping adults - listen to them. Let them know you care and support them. Please treat them with respect and dignity. Talk with them about their feelings. Suggest they speak to someone they feel comfortable with; their General Practitioner or other mental health professionals may help.

What are the changes you may see? What are they saying? It may include moodiness, confusion, loneliness, low self-esteem, being a burden on others, and fear of the future.

COFFS COAST focus 57

What are they doing? Are they socially withdrawing, changes in sleep patterns, mood swings, behaving recklessly, lack of focus, loss of interest in things that brought joy, or are less concerned with health, hygiene and appearance. What is happening in their life? Relationship issues, health concerns, financial difficulties, work pressure, constant stress, and loss of someone or something meaningful in their lives. What do I say, and how do I help?

Looking after yourself

BEYOND

focus contributor. COUNSELLING CONVERSATIONS

Veronica Hibbard has been an emergency nurse for over 16 years, and has often wondered about the ongoing health of some of her patients. So after her own positive experience, she is now offering IV vitamins here on the Coffs Coast to help people improve their overall health.

58 COFFS COAST focus

Hey Veronica, tell us a bit about your background and why you started Revive IV Wellness? In my mid-twenties, and after having my third baby, I realised that I wanted to do something in my life that would help others. So I decided to pursue a career in nursing. I completed my nursing degree while my children were still young and then settled into a 16-year career as an emergency nurse. During this time, I grew in skill and competence and had many fulfilling experiences which had positive effects on those I treated, but I felt something was missing. I realised that I didn’t get to see how my patients ended up and were they now in good health or not. I have always had a keen interest in fitness, natural health and alternative solutions to health concerns and so I started researching many different vitamins, supplements, and alternatives to medications for problems like pain, digestive issues, hormonal issues and low energy. I had also suddenly entered perimenopause and felt not myself shall I say. Then my husband and I found IV vitamins on a trip to Sydney and booked them every time we went to Sydney for business. We started feeling the benefits straight away in our bodies, energy levels and mental clarity. I turned to my REVIVE IV WELLNESS

What have been some of the success stories so far?

The experience I have as an emergency nurse allows me to practice in this field of treatment, not only in a clinical sense, but being able to work with each client individually to find their optimum health through assessment and blood testing if required. So all my experience in the Hospital and all my training has advantaged me greatly.

There have been many, and this is the part that motivates and excites me the most…

What have you learnt about yourself starting a new business? That I am first and foremost a nurse and a very good one at that, but the business side of things has been challenging. I am learning a lot about myself regarding my strengths and things I need to improve. But the challenge has been worth it as I know this business will benefit many people. My focus is hands-on with my clients and I’m lucky to have a great support team helping me with the business side of things. Having spent your career in the medical field as a nurse, how much of this has helped you with this new venture?

The best part for me is seeing my clients look brighter after their treatment. I have had reports and testimonials of a more restful sleep, feeling calmer and having more daily energy. Reports of mental clarity and feeling less stressed. One client said he isn’t struggling to get out of bed every morning any more and is much more productive during the day, not feeling like he needs an afternoon nap. I absolutely love hearing this feedback and it is exactly why I am bringing this valuable business to Coffs Harbour. What’s the process for each client? Usually what happens first is an initial phone consultation or a quick sit down consultation at my clinic. After an assessment an appropriate treatment is agreed upon and delivered in a calm and homely clinic environment. The nurse is there the entire time to monitor and chat to you. If the client wishes to further tailor their treatment they can opt for a blood test to determine specific deficiencies. Who would benefit from Revive? Literally anybody who would like to optimise their existing health to those who are recovering from surgery, injuries or illness and anyone wanting to have more energy, vitality and wellness in their life. I personally want to be as fit and healthy as I can for my children and grandchildren and I know this is helping with that. Where can we find out more info? You can visit our website reviveivwellness. com.au or you can phone myself for a phone consult or just come and see me at the Clinic. Thanks Veronica.

I have had some amazing results in those who have had these treatments, from people having more energy in their busy lives, an improvement of eczema symptoms, better and more restful sleep, clearer skin and healthier hair and just generally feeling better. I love seeing the instant results of the treatments, and hearing reports a few days later how even their flu symptoms finally dissipated.

COFFS COAST focus 59 our treatment and said, “I could do this!!!” And so, the idea was born. What is Revive IV Wellness? And how have you seen it work for others? Revive IV Wellness is a treatment where vitamins, electrolytes,minerals,andother nutrients are delivered via a bag of hydration directly into a client’s blood stream. The IV bypasses the digestive system which delivers the vitamins straight into the cells of the body for better absorption. It’s a service which treats every individual with a tailored program to help them reach their specific health goal.

60 COFFS COAST focus

ey Tom, What is your earliest memory of picking up a golf club and falling in love with the sport? The first golf club I picked up was a little plastic set my Grandfather gave me when I was around three years old. He was a very keen golfer! He and my Dad would often go for nine holes whenever they got the chance, they sometimes let me drive the golf buggy, which I thought was the coolest thing ever. I didn’t seriously start playing golf until I was 9, when we would go to Coffs Harbour Golf Club and attend junior clinics on a Saturday morning.

TOM

I was very fortunate that my Mum and Dad could afford to take me to so many tournaments as a teenager which gave me a small taste of what it would be like travelling and playing golf as a living. As the end of school became near, I started searching for different pathways through which I could incorporate golf and study. There were two options which really stood out to me; a PGA Traineeship or a pathway with the PGA IGI. Either option would allow me to keep playing at a high level whilst developing my knowledge of the golf industry as a whole. You were able to secure a scholarship through golf. How did this come about, and where did it take you?

Towards the end of 2013, I applied for the Adam Scott Foundation Scholarship, which, if successful, would mean I could relocate to the Gold Coast and study at the PGA IGI based at Sanctuary Cove. The scholarship opened up doors which I would never have imagined opening. I met many people, from world-class golfers to the best coaches Australia has to offer. Through the connections I made from the Adam Scott Foundation Scholarship, I was fortunate to gain employment at The Grand Golf Club and Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club. Both of these golf courses are private, exclusive courses and taught me a lot about the golf industry and how to stand out from the competition. When the job at the Coffs Harbour Golf Driving Range popped up, it allowed me to come back to the great golfing destination of Coffs Harbour and work in another part of the golf industry, in an area

MAJOR

Saturday morning used to be all about golf, teeing off in the dark with about 30 subjuniors watching you, praying that you didn’t thin it, so you didn’t jar your hands from the vibration of the club. Winning would be the week’s highlight and meant you could buy a few extra mars bars from the shop. The group of juniors we had growing up were all very competitive, and I think that is what I loved about golf. No one was really winning every week. We would all have our purple patches but knew that if we kept practising, our time would come. I guess that’s what got me hooked on golf – coming together with everyone to practise and play a game in which only you could control the outcome and no one else. When did you realise it was a bit more than a sport and you could turn it into a career?

juniorsCoachingis what really ignited my passion for coaching. Junior coaching is where you can have a little fun and think outside the box. I enjoy using imaginationmyto come up with games or drills challengewhichand teach the kids the skills of golf in a fun and, more engagingimportantly,way.

I have a lot of fond memories both on and off the golf course. A few memories I will probably take the most from would be playing nine holes with Adam Scott at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club, caddying at the Japan Open for a good mate Anthony Quayle, and playing in the QLD PGA at Toowoomba. Each of these experiences has taught me something valuable that I will always have to look back and learn from. Whilst playing professionally has taken a back seat of late, I still enjoy being around and involved in tournament golf. You specifically coach golfers these days. Has the sport changed much from when you started? The game has changed over the last five years significantly, let alone since I started playing 13 years ago. Technology, like everything, has taken the game to a whole new level, and the distances we can hit the ball these days are making the game so much easier. Coaching has become much more accessible and online coaching is giving players and coaches the freedom to work on their own schedules. Biomechanics and physical screenings have taken the game to new levels, you need to do everything you can to perform at your peak to win a tournament. I learnt a lot of this when I was working at Hills Academy under the guidance of Ken Berndt. They would often get in physios, mental coaches and biomechanics experts to show the students what they need to put into practice to be performing at their best during competitions. What do you get out of coaching other golfers?

COFFS COAST focus 61 in which I hadn’t had much experience and further developing my skills as a coach. After all the years of playing and coaching, what would you see as the biggest highlight of your golfing career?

Coaching juniors is what really ignited my passion for coaching. Junior coaching is where you can have a little fun and think outside the box. I enjoy using my imagination to come up with games or drills which challenge and teach the kids the skills of golf in a fun and, more importantly, engaging way. More recently, I have really enjoyed completing the Cause & Effect Coaching Course by the Swing Index, which has really helped take my coaching skills to another level. Changing one thing in the golf swing has an effect on another which is a simple yet very effective way of coaching. If you could do it all again, would there be anything you would change? Definitely having a different mindset at playing professionally. Instead of worrying about the result and where the next paycheck comes from, focus on what you want to achieve and what you need to do to achieve that. I’ve tried to take this outlook into work and personal life and look at things a little differently. Rather than getting worried about a task or a deadline, I try to look at the big picture and enjoy the journey rather than getting anxious about the end result. Thanks Tom.

Another thing to consider is obtaining a “tax depreciation schedule” completed by a registered quantity surveyor. Costs can vary (usually about $600 for a standard residence), but the cost is also tax deductible and can significantly improve your tax position. seek advice from your accountant to see if this would benefit your situation.

62 COFFS COAST focus

The short answer to both questions is YES. Maintenance and improvements on your rental property is essential to not only keep the property in good repair, which is a requirement if you want to keep your tenants happy, but it can also assist in keeping your investment in good shape so that you realise the maximum rental return and achieve the best sale price when you ultimately sell the property and “cash in” on your equity.

All costs incurred on your rental property are tax deductible, however it becomes more of a question as to whether the costs are classed as repairs (repairing existing structures, cleaning etc) or whether the expense is classed as a “capital expense” (e.g. installation of a new kitchen would be a capital expense). Repairs and maintenance and small asset purchases are written off in the year incurred. Capital expenses are depreciated to match the effective life of the asset. In other words, they are claimed proportionally each year.

1. Should I spend money on repairs and maintenance on my rental property, and 2. Are the expenses tax deductible?

Always

Here are some common expenses incurred that are tax deductible: Rental property expense checklist • Advertising • Body Corporate fees • Management fees by agent • Commissions paid to agents • Capital works • Depreciation • Cleaning and garden maintenance • Pool maintenance • Insurance • Interest on loans used to purchase or improve the property • Bank fees and borrowing costs • Repairs and maintenance • Legal expenses or lease costs • Postage, stationery, and telephone • Smoke alarms check and installation • Pest control • Council rates • Quantity survey report fee Keep the right records for each stage of your property journey to ensure you can claim everything you are entitled to. Buying • Contract of purchase • Conveyancing documents • Loan documents • Legal/conveyancing fees • Borrowing expenses Owning • Proof of rental income • All rental expenses • Periods of private use by you or friends • Periods you used the property as your main residence • Loan documents if you refinance • Efforts to rent the property out • Capital improvements Selling • Contract for sale • Conveyancing / legal documents • Legal fees in connection with the sale • Calculation of capital gain or loss Good recording keeping is the key. Set up an easy-to-use record keeping system such as a spreadsheet or professional software. Keep records of every transaction. Scan copies of your receipts to make it easier to store an access them. This guide is provided for general information only and if you have specific questions that are particular to your own personal situation, you should consult with your accountant or registered tax agent. ACCOUNTANTS with BARRY HOCKEY MONEY focus contributor.

Being tax-smart when investing in property means more than making the right property choices. If you use your property to earn income at any time, you will have tax obligations and Theentitlements.twocommon questions that is asked by rental property owners are:

and special servicesall abilities

The SchemeInsuranceDisabilityNational (NDIS) is funding provided to people with a permanent and significant disability to assist in their daily life, help them participate in the community and to reach their goals.

What NDIS supports do Key Employment offer?

SLES – we are the experts at transitioning young people from school to work and tailor all SLES packages to each young person. Tell us more about your school transition programs… We run two school transition programs

64 COFFS COAST focus What is the NDIS?

The NDIS is designed to help people get the support they need, improve skills and independence over time and maintain choice and control over their own life.

Support Coordination – helping you to maximise your NDIS funding and connecting you to supports in your community to improve your daily living.

WE HAD A CHAT WITH CEO, JODI WOOD TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHAT KEYCANEMPLOYMENTOFFER

Key Employment can help you apply for an NDIS package. We understand the application process can be overwhelming and are happy to meet and discuss the right pathway to get the process started.

KIKSTART and STRIKE which have been specifically designed for people aged 15 to 21.

Key Employment offer the following NDIS supports:

Key Employment can help you apply for an NDIS package. We understand the application process can be overwhelming and are happy to meet and discuss the right pathway to get the process started.

KEY EMPLOYMENT

Plan Management – taking care of the financials of your NDIS plan such as claiming, paying providers, processing of expenses and keeping you updated with financial statements, reducing the stress of having to keep up with it all.

Finding & EmploymentKeeping – we have over 30 years’ experience in assisting people with disability find employment. We get to know you and your goals and support you in your chosen career path with work experience and ultimately paid employment. Social & Community – we love helping you become active in our community and support your goals by taking you anywhere you want to go. We also have a range of activities onsite with our purpose designed community hub. Our facility includes basketball, tennis and soccer fields, kitchen, community garden and free Wi-Fi all located only 500 metres from the town center and directly outside a bus stop. Skills Development – we have over 30 support workers with a range of skills and interests and ensure we match you with the most suited person to help develop your skills in any way you choose.

STRIKE is a new and exciting employment transition program for young people with an NDIS package that 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 will run in conjunction with their school program. STRIKE is a precursor to the KIKSTART program. It is for younger students who are keen to develop employment and social skills whilst still attending school. This program is an excellent way to give young people with disability the early start they need into the labour market and is run in collaboration with each local high school. So how do we register?

COFFS COAST focus 65

NDIS into permanent employment positions.

This is the easy part, simply contact our office on (02) 6691 9999 and have a friendly chat to an NDIS team member about how KE can support you. You can also drop by our facility at 61 West High Street Coffs Harbour any time between 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday or send us an email NDIS@keyemployment.com.au We have over 30 support workers with a range of skills and interests and ensure we match you with the most suited person to help develop your skills in any way you choose.

The KIKSTART program includes social youngsuccesshas18runningprogramTheworkdevelopment,training,transportengagement,communityexcursions,personalandexperience.KIKSTARThasbeenforthepastmonthsandseenincredibletransitioningpeopleonthe

KIKSTART is a work readiness program for school leavers in their last 6 months of school, who have an NDIS package, that specialises in building employability skills while engaging in a fun, social environment.

66 COFFS COAST focus

The #menTALK forum led by Lifeline North Coast, is to build support for men’s mental health and wellbeing in our community. We are asking for the community’s input to develop a men’s suicide prevention program here in Coffs Harbour. We want to empower our Coffs Harbour residents to be aware of the risk of suicide in our community and to assist them to speak safely about suicide with those in their network. What is Lifeline wanting to achieve from hosting this forum? What can the community expect from the event? At #menTALK, we will check in with our community to assess how we can best serve and support men’s suicide prevention on the Coffs Coast. We will seek interest to form a working group, and we will provide some training and tools to assist our community to help someone in crisis. Who is this event for? Who can register? This event is for anyone to attend who has an interest and capacity to support suicide prevention programs across our community and networks – in our sporting clubs, education facilities, our workplaces, our social clubs and within our friends and family. We want to support our community in reducing suicide.

Our Coffs Community plays a critical role in suicide prevention. By coming together, we can provide social support to vulnerable individuals and engage in follow-up care, fight stigma and support those bereaved by suicide. Our objective is to work together with locals to implement specific suicide prevention We want empowertoour Coffs residentsHarbour to be aware of the risk of suicide in our community and to assist them to speak safely about suicide with those in their network.

Why is the #menTALK event so important, and why involve all of the community?

IKO SMITH CEO, LIFELINE NORTH WhyCOASThas come#menTALKtheforumabout?Why now?

ANGELA NORTHMANAGER,ENGAGEMENTANDCOMMUNICATIONSMARTIN,COMMUNITYLIFELINECOAST

LIFELINE

L-R: Simon Whittaker, Angela Martin, Michael Smith, Ian Eno Taylor, Tony Judge, Scott Seccombe

Event Details:

There is a big stigma about suicide which comes from a lack of training and support for men. Many people have a negative attitude or beliefs suicide,towardsanditis not openly talked about by men.

COFFS COAST focus 67 strategies targeting men in our region. All of us care about the men in our region; this event is for us Nationallyall. men make up 75% of all suicides. Learning how to identify the warning signs of someone at risk, knowing how to ask someone if they are experiencing thoughts of suicide, and if so, supporting the person to seek help will make a dramatic difference. To take away the shame and stigma and to ask for help is vital. On the night of the #menTALK forum, Lifeline North Coast will provide tools on how to identify warning signs and help your mates. This event is about coming together to build connections and support for one another. The community has shown a lot of strength through the last few years with Fires, Floods, and COVID-19, and we would like to continue building on this resilience by continuing to connect and identify what else we can do to build a framework for support. Lifeline is here to help members in our community and those that wish to support each other. Scott Seccombe, why is attending this event so important to you?

#menTALK

Tony Judge, on the day of the #menTALK forum you’ll be sharing knowledge gained as a crisis supporter and mentor – what do you think is the single most important thing someone can do if they see someone struggling?

There is a big stigma about suicide which comes from a lack of training and support for men. Many people have a negative attitude or beliefs towards suicide, and it is not openly talked about by men. As a community, we need to be more openminded and become better educated about mental illness and suicide.

Thanks Guys.

Date: Thursday 29 September

Simon Whittaker, why is it important for local men to attend this event? There is a huge gap between what men are feeling and what they are communicating, the consequence of this silence is disproportionatelya high suicide rate in men. The hardest thing for people is knowing how to react when they have concerns about a friend or family member, what do you say? What if you do or say the wrong thing and make it worse? This event will provide the tools and resources to manage these conversations in a healthy and safe way.

Ian “ENO” Taylor, you will be sharing your story at the #menTALK forum, why do you think as men we need to be more open with how we are feeling? What can be done to support our mates and family?

Talking about your feelings is crucial to your well-being, no matter your situation. It allows you to process your experiences, release stress, and receive support from others when needed.

Bottling up your emotions, on the other hand, can lead to a build-up of stress and anger.

For me personally, extremely important, the #menTALK forum is designed to provide information about suicide prevention and support for our local men. Those who attend will walk away with a better understanding of ways that we can relate to and support one another. The #menTALK event is an opportunity to meet with like-minded people who want to drive a suicide prevention initiative while we learn what we can do to take care of ourselves and our mates.

One word – Listen. Ask them about what is going on in their life and be prepared to listen really, genuinely. Encourage them to talk about the toughest bits and ask genuinely. Do not tell them it is not as bad as they think or tell them it will be OK, or you will get over it. Sit with them and let them talk it through and let them know you are there for them. It can be a very uncomfortable process for you as the listener but imagine how much harder it is for the person who is confiding in you.

68 COFFS COAST focus 1/129 West High Street, Coffs Harbour 12/38 Clifton Drive, Port Macquarie (02) 6651 3220 With over 2000 staff and services across NSW, QLD, SA and VIC, Nextt provides high quality disability support to over 1500 people each year. As a registered NDIS provider, we offer a truly individual service that is tailored to suit your needs. Support is provided by a team of experienced, well-trained support workers who share our passion for providing excellent support and empowering our clients to get more out of life. Do you need help with your NDIS plan? At Nextt, we can support you to reach your goals and become more independent. • AccessCommunity • Building Skills & Capacity • CoordinationSupport • Attendant Care • LivingIndependentSupported • Core Supports • Personal Care • Assistance with Daily Life Get More Out Of Life

COFFS COAST focus 69

I love that I can share my sport with others, especially with those younger than me. Being active is very important and builds so many skills.

Hi Tamsyn, so great to meet you. Can you please start by telling us all a little bit about yourself…? I am 19 years old and live in the beautiful Nambucca Valley with my parents and younger brother. I was born and grew up here going to school at St Pats and then Macksville High School. I am very active person, playing sports like Netball, Touch, Basketball and Athletics since the age of 7, but my passion and my heart is with Netball. Now that I have finished school, I work at our local hotel and have recently taken on a new role as the Development Officer for Netball NSW and have started studying physiotherapy at Charles Stuart University. Wow so busy with some amazing things. What do you love about your new role with Netball NSW? I was an assistant coach, and the coach had a role with Netball NSW. I would see how much she enjoyed her job of sharing this great sport. I thought I want to do that and a few months ago this opportunity came up and I went for it. I adore seeing the kids try something new and then enjoy it so much that they join a local netball association. I love that I can share my sport with others, especially with those younger than me. Being active is very important and builds so many skills. What skills do you see it build? It teaches teamwork, leadership and resilience. You learn how to win but also how to bounce back after losing a game. I find it can help with goal setting too, as each week you spend time developing a skill. I see it build strong friendships and support, access to role models and mentors – the people most close and important to me right now are those that I met through sport. You mention resilience. I know that you have had to build this yourself due to facing some health concerns. Yes, that’s right. I have come to appreciate how precious our vision is, after losing mine for 3 months in the middle of peak-Covid last year. Not being able to see people’s faces, our beaches or play sport really took its toll on me but has shown how strong and resilient I am. I am even more grateful now than I was. I remember being alone in hospital as I couldn’t have visitors because of Covid, and I was wearing a bracelet. When I felt it, it gave me a warm reminder about the people supporting me through this, the community having my back and believing in me. It was only a little piece of jewellery, but I wore it close and it meant something important. Tamsyn, you are so strong to have gone through that at such a young age. Have you found that being open about what you have gone through has potentially helped others across your community? Yes, I find that young people are looking up to me as a role model now. They can see that even though I had to face, and am still facing, this health hurdle, it’s important to stay positive, grateful and thankful for what we have.Itry very hard to be a good mentor, to encourage our youth to have real and open conversations and share what is happening in our lives so we can support each other.

Lastly, I’d like to end on what advice you could give other young people… I have a tattoo on my arm that says “embrace the challenge”, that would be my advice – try new things, take on opportunities, look for the positives and don’t spend time worrying on what you can’t control, spend more time on how you can react and feel. I would also say love where you live, even if it is a small community, as you can still do everything you want to do and live how you want to live despite the size of the town. Thanks Tamsyn.

FROM BECOMING U PROJECT with CASSANDRA WILSON LEADERS focus contributor. T A M S Y N S P E A R

Planning creates peace of mind Planning for our retirement, as we dream of travel, cruise ships and caravans as well as more time playing with the grandkids, can be quite enjoyable. Perhaps that’s why we put off planning for our aged care needs – it’s not as much fun to think ahead to a time when we might need more support. But with the right advice, planning ahead offers many benefits and can be easier than you think. Benefits may •include:Peace of mind for you and your family

Don’t leave it too late

• Taking pressure off family when a crisis •occursAllowing you to have a voice, and • Avoiding costly mistakes. Creating a plan that will work for you includes consideration for what sort of life you want to live and what makes a good life for you. This should take into account options for where you could live but also how to continue to your interests and stay connected to family, friends and your community. Understanding the costs and planning your finances is a key component of making the plan work effectively.

70 COFFS COAST focus P 0431 414 799 E Wjason@burleyagedcareadvice.com.auwww.burleyagedcareadvice.com.au with JASON BURLEY FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

Don’t leave your planning too late. We have helped many of our clients to start the planning process and often discuss when and how to bring your family into this process.Ifyou’re ready to start the conversation, call us on 0431 414 799 and let us work with you to create a plan for all of your retirement. This advice is general in nature and everyone’s circumstances are different. So it’s important to speak to someone like myself who is a licenced financial adviser (I am an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232).

AGED

Creating a plan that will work for you whatconsiderationincludesforsortoflifeyou want to live and what makes a good life for you.

We plan ahead for many aspects of our lives, but few people plan for future aged care needs. Now is the time to change that trend.

The truth is, most of us avoid thinking about our own future aged care needs, delaying our decisions until perhaps they’re taken out of our hands. Life expectancies are increasing. This means not only might we expect to live longer than our parents and grandparents, but we might also expect longer and more active retirements. However, this does not remove the possibility that we may need help with daily living and medical care in our older years. If we reach a point when we are increasingly vulnerable, we don’t want to be left unprepared.

HAVE

As an Accredited Aged Care Professional™ I have helped many clients to make this choice. I help to find a choice that is affordable, as well as works best for the family and protects the value of the estate. Call me on 0431 414 799 or email jason@ burleyagedcareadvice.com.au to find out how I might help yours or a loved one’s own position. YOU AN CARE PLAN IN PLACE?

Simon Whittaker

Photo:

Practice Principals Aaron Hardaker, Micheal

NEW FRESHNAMELOOK COME TOGETHER HEALTHCARE LEADERS

Allied Health’s services will include the familiar disciplines such as Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology, Massage Therapy, Dietetics, Myotherapy and Occupational Therapy as well as much needed specialised services including Paediatric Physiotherapy, Women’s Pelvic Physiotherapy, Concussion care and headaches, Throughmanagement.Lymphoedemaandinnovation and technology, Mid North Coast Allied Health will also deliver patient care outside of practices, ensuring services are accessible when and where they are most needed, including home visits and Atconsultations.Telehealthatimewhenthe Mid North Coast region is experiencing significant population growth and the NSW Government has identified a struggle with recruiting and retaining healthcare staff in regional areas, this merger bolsters Mid North Coast Allied Health to continue growing and evolving to meet the ongoing needs of the community.

ofseeextremelyAaronManagingandthroughspecialisedpatients,more,sopartnershipdevelopinspiredcommitmentthemtoastrategicandmerge,theycoulddoevensupportmorewithmoreservicestheirhealthwellbeingjourney.PrincipaladmitsheisexcitedtothetransformationtheMNCPhysio signs and shopfronts currently rolling out to join the southern clinics, with a refreshed name and look that will represent an exciting future for Allied Healthcare for existing clients and the wider community. He also hinted at there being more inspiring announcements to come in the near future that will deliver even greater access to high quality healthcare in the region – watch this space!

excitedadmitsPrincipalManagingAaronheisextremely

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We’re entering a new era for Allied Health care on the Mid North Coast with the launch of Mid North Coast Allied Health, a multidisciplinary team dedicated to providing seamless care through your health and wellbeing journey.

While Mid North Coast Allied Health may appear to be a new name for local healthcare, it has a long legacy of caring for the community, made possible by the joining of two long established practices and teams. Mid North Coast Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic and Sports & Spinal Physiotherapy have come together, bringing a wealth of experience which combined has improved the health of almost 30,000 individuals across the Mid North Coast community to date. With the team working across eight locations spanning as far north as Woolgoolga and south as Laurieton, exceptional healthcare will be accessible to the entire Mid North Coast community and beyond. The merger means that clients can now be seen in Woolgoolga, Moonee Beach, Toormina and Urunga to the north, and Laurieton, Wauchope and two locations in Port MidMacquarie.NorthCoast

Robinson and Robert Eid shared that both practice groups had an unwavering commitment to delivering accessible quality care to support the health and wellbeing of the community. And that

to see transformationtheof the MNC Physio signs and shopfronts currently rolling out to join the southern clinics.

COFFS COAST focus 73 The provideralliedlargestregion’shealth NEW NAME BUT THE SAME GREAT SERVICE 1300 273 747 e. info@mncphysio.com.au w. www.mncphysio.com.au 8 CLINIC LOCATIONS CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT WAUCHOPELAURIETONYOURPORTURUNGATOORMINAMOONEEWOOLGOOLGAMACQUARIELIFEGYM

membership is $30 (entry in all events) or a casual membership on event day of $10 if you’re not about for other events. As we Youth who want to engage in the sport deserve a safe environment to do so and a club environment can give that and more to skaters.up-and-coming

74 COFFS COAST focus

I've been rolling about since I was in pre-school, skating and competing with mates and peers. I was lucky to grow up in a town with a concrete bowl and a steel half pipe. Skateboarding culture was alive and well during my teen and early adult years. Our peers and awesome members of our community gathered support to build Grafton skate park, which was a really great regional park for the time. I have had some great opportunities, formed life long friendships, travelled the country, laughed, cried and had an absolute blast, all thanks to skateboarding. With the help of our awesome committee, crew and community, all I want is to give to the skating community what I received. What’s involved for the members? Members are given the opportunity to showcase their skills and learn from their peers in a friendly towhotheencourageenvironment.competitiveWeeveryoneinMidNorthCoastridesaskateboardjoinus.Yearly

Mid North Coast Skate Club

Youth who want to engage in the sport deserve a safe environment to do so and a club environment can give that and more to up-and-coming skaters. We would like to encourage community members and families to gather and demonstrate skateboarding is a great, healthy, fun activity to be a part of. What’s your own personal experience with skate culture?

Mid North Coast Skate Club is a non profit skate club for skaters of all ages and abilities from Port Macquarie to Corindi Beach. We are about community engaging in skateboarding at our local public facilities, competing and having as much fun as can be had on four wheels. Why did you feel a need to start a skate club? We see and are engaged in many other sporting clubs and felt it was time skateboarders had the same opportunities other sporting clubs enjoy. Skating has always been a fringe sport, with social issues surrounding all skateparks for many years.

ey Jimmy, tell us what Mid North Coast Skate Club is all about?

Although in its infancy, where do you hope Mid North Coast Skate Club can get to?

Skate, chill, eat, mingle, nab a prize and go off on your merry way for the rest of your Sunday afternoon. Who are some of the stand out skaters you have in the club so far? It’s tough to single individuals out – the skaters know who the shredders are at the moment, these guys and girls push the limits and are tough as nails. They are setting the bar for the region and are amazing to watch.

• Chalkies Skate Shop

COFFS COAST focus 75 grow, so will the divisions and locations. We have a bunch of kids, as many girls as boys, and a good crew of teens and adults. I’m currently battling it out with the young guys as I’m currently the only competitor over 40 –hey old guys, let’s get the masters division up and running!!! Who can join up to the club and do they need any experience? All are welcome!! Beginners to experts, old guys to micro groms. If you ride a skateboard on the Mid North Coast, come check us out. Not into competing? Come hang, free skate, see some awesome skating. Don’t skate? Come have a feed and a yarn, cheer on the ankle busters and old farts, it’s a great spectator sport. Action packed. You are hosting skate events and comps here on the Coffs Coast. What has the turnout been like so far? Turnout has been great, we held our first comp at Corindi, with a rad bunch of skaters turning up to see what we are all about. Mums, Dads, Nans and Pops, a great vibe. The second comp recently at Woopi park gathered more new faces which was great, we are starting off humble and happy to see the club grow naturally. Good people, rad skating. We are heading south, next event in Coffs. What has the feedback been like so far from club members? Feedback has been good, we were ironing out the bugs on the first comp. It ran pretty smooth, we took advice from the skaters and members as to how they felt things could go and made a few changes. The introduction of a fully stocked canteen on site for all the hungry rippers was a welcome addition. We were bang on starting time at Woopi, heats were smooth with free skating in between and a little best trick comp at the end. We don’t need to have you for your entire Sunday.

• Honour BJJ

• Tango Juice Bar

• Diggers RSL (major sponsor)

• Box Factory Burgers

We envisage the club growing steadily with members, gaining more sponsorship and funding to hold bigger events, offering awesome comp day prizes and crowning end of year champions.

Shout out to our sponsors (greatly appreciated and still looking for more to fund these awesome events)

• Hoorang Skateboards Thanks Jimmy. Come hang, free skate, see some awesome skating. Don’t skate? Come have a feed and a yarn, cheer on the ankle busters and old farts, it’s a great spectator sport.

There were some very talented boys, girls and adults skating in the last two events, although it’s the encouragement and support of the skaters who are not on top of the leaders board who get out there and have a go, with the crowd cheering them on, making a new trick, finding a new line, that make us smile, as much as watching the amazing talent.

We are excited to be possibly helping future champions of skateboarding fulfill their dreams. We see this steadily growing with other regions starting clubs also. We look forward to our own events and future events incorporating other regional clubs. Where can we find out more?

midnorthcoastskateclub to keep up to date on events and comps, talk to the guys at Chalkies Skate Shop and Coffs Coast Skate School about what we are up to in the near future.

• Coffs Coast Roofing

76 COFFS COAST focus Bring a natural coastal harmony and warmth into your home with coastal from seashells to unique furniture pieces. We ship Australia wide. Open 7 days and also online www.thatbeachshop.com.au Shop 3/62 Beach Street, Woolgoolga Phone: 6654 2092 Mobile: 0418 402 073 September offer Open daily for lunch and dinner Purchase a main meal from our Lunch Specials and receive a drink on the house!* *Terms & conditions apply, members only promotion, selected beverages only. TP/00969 Ideal for team building sessions, family fun events and Christmas parties. Contact the club to book a date today. WOOLGOOLGA

C.ex Woolgoolga - C.ex Woolgoolga is a bowling club located 20 minutes from Coffs Harbour in the heart of the community of Woolgoolga. Featuring two synthetic bowling greens, Buster’s Brasserie, freshly renovated TAB and lounge areas and plenty of off-street parking at the door. There is a full bowls schedule including Indoor Bowls and coaching & bowls lessons are also available upon request. The club boasts a large Auditorium that can comfortably seat up to 300 people for conferences, weddings, eisteddfods and more. There is also some smaller rooms available for groups of up to 50. Catering can also be arranged for any event through Buster’s Brasserie.

Buster’s Brasserie - Our exciting new dining outlet features an enticing menu influenced by modern Australia mixed with a few of our favourite Asian dishes from our former Walter’s Bistro. Located at C.ex Woolgoolga, Buster’s Brasserie boasts a relaxed, coastal feel with quality meals and great service. Contact the club for any event enquiries on 0266541307.

TOYS

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When did you first start fishing?

I have seen photos of myself in a pram fishing off a jetty at South West Rocks around 1 or 2 years of age at my Mum's place recently. Most of my earliest childhood memories involve fishing and the water so I couldn’t give you an exact date – but at least 32 odd years ago! After growing up right on the water you moved inland in your teens, but we hear you still managed to keep fishing? In my early teenage years, a split in our family saw us move out west to the Hunter Valley, with fishing and water running in our veins it was hard to keep us out of the small freshwater creeks, rivers and dams. I soon learned the art of freshwater species such as Golden Perch, Cod and Australian Bass.

I left home and ended up in boarding school studying Agriculture, it helped shape me into the person I am now 100%. I believe I learned morals, honesty and of course the ins and outs of business which has helped me all the way through my life. It’s also where I met my wife Sally, who I’d eventually marry 8 or so years later. When did you first start competing and how did that come about? After spending years honing my skills lure fishing for Bass and Bream, I decided I would try my hand at Tournament Bass and Bream competitions in my late teens and early 20’s. I never thought I was better than anyone else, I just enjoyed the pressure of the competition situation.Tournament fishing ended up taking me all around this great country and meeting some absolute legends along the way. I competed as a Pro Angler in the B.A.S.S. Australia Nation, ABT Bass & Bream, Gamakatsu Teams Series and Hobie Kayak Bream tournaments over the years and was fortunate enough to fish in a fair few Australian Championships along the way. What have been some of your most memorable competition moments? If I had to pick 3 of my most memorable fishing competition moments – they would be: Winning a boat! Being crowned the Champion Angler at the B.A.S.S. Australia Nation on Glenbawn Dam back in 2017. And getting to stand on the stage at Somerset Dam in Qld at a B.A.S.S. Australia Nation Championship with my kids by my side when I dropped a bag of Dayne Taylor grew up in and around the water and has been a fisherman for as long as he can remember. The sport has taken him adventuring all around Australia and he is now running a local comp at Urunga that brings in hundreds of keen fishermen every year.

My parents owned a small waterfront acreage on Lake Macquarie, so my childhood was spent terrorising the Bream, Whiting and Flathead population out of our little 12’ tinny. We were a family of 6 kids in a school with only 28 students at Eraring Public. My brothers, sister and I cut a deal with our School Principal as we’d regularly turn up late after a hot bite on the water; we’d supply the Mud Crabs for him and he’d give us $5 each for them and go easy on us for turning up late. Everyone was happy!

During this period, I guess you could say I totally immersed myself in Bass Fishing. It was a way for my mind to completely shut off with all the things going on at home in our family life and the craziness that is “becoming a teenager”.Atage15

Hi Dayne. You and your family have a strong connection to the water, can you tell us about that? I am the eldest of 6 kids born into a family of both recreational and commercial fisherman. My Dad’s side of our family were involved in trawlers running out of Brisbane Water just near Woy Woy, and my old man was an avid Surfer and mad keen Freediver “Spearfisho”. My Mum and our Grandparents were also mad on water-skiing and had a couple of big boats running in the Hawkesbury River also, so as far back as I can remember –fishing, boats and the water were always a big part of my life. It sounds clichéd, but you could go as far as saying I was born on the water!

COFFS COAST focus 81 2 fish on the scales for 3.5kg on the final day to rocket me into the lead and the huge crowd erupting and cheering! What have you been up to since moving to the Coffs Coast with your young family? I wanted to get back to just enjoying fishing as a recreational sport and focus on giving back and paying forward the experiences and knowledge fishing has created forOverme. the years I have been extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to work in the Fishing and Boating Industry here on the Coffs Coast, I have also had part time gigs writing columns for fishing magazines. And I’ve been lucky enough to travel around the country with my family and friends fishing, camping and boating in some awesome locations whilst catching some incredible fish along the way. You started your own fishing tournament, can you tell us about it and where the idea came from? I have a massive passion for sustainable fishing and continue to promote catch and release / sport fishing for our future generations to enjoy this great pastime I love so much. Back in 2014 I started the inaugural Berkley Urunga Sports Fishing Flathead Tournament. I didn’t have plans for it to end up like it has, but I knew there were a few locals that wanted a fishing competition that was 100% catch and release (meaning all the fish caught go back in the water alive and healthy). So, I gathered some sponsors to help out with a few small prizes and we slapped together a comp. Turns out we had 250+ people show up in small town Urunga from all over the east coast of Australia to compete. How has that comp evolved since it started? We have had in excess of 350 to 400 competitors every year since it started and have given away over $100+k worth of prizes including 4 boat, motor and trailer packages, thousands of rods and reels, lures and other fishing tackle. And we are currently planning the 2022 edition to be held this November the 11th, 12th and 13th. Where can we find you these days? And if you’re heading out for a fish, what are some of your current favourite spots? These days you can find me fishing out of my interpretation of the ultimate allrounder – an Australian Hand Made Plate Alloy Boat. I have a custom-built Formosa SRT 495 Pro Side Console, sporting a Suzuki 140hp outboard motor.Ilove this boat as it allows me to load up all our camping gear and head North into Qld and the NT, or even out west of NSW chasing everything from Barra, Cod and Bass, to offshore and for some island hopping or reef fishing. It’s a great stable fishing platform for both inshore and offshore. And I have gone to town loading it with a ridiculous amount of marine electronics and gadgets. If you are interested in knowing more about my boat – please come down and see it at North Coast Boating Centre in Urunga. I’d love to show you through it! I have a massive passion for sustainable fishing and continue to promote catch and release / sport fishing for our generationsfutureto enjoy this great pastime I love so much.

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LEARN FOCUS FEATURE Love to 89 COFFS COAST focus

Coffs CatholicHarbourSchools

HSC music students consistently perform well above state average and a strong proportion of these students continue toward a career in the music industry.

At St John Paul College, the music department is thriving and has shown a strong presence within the school and community with regular lunchtime performances, concerts and more recently recording projects, which have been featured on local radio stations. Students have the opportunity to join one of the many school based ensembles which include the College Choir, Stage Band and Drumline, proving to be a great success and a valuable experience for the students’ musical development. An extension of the music faculty is the instrumental tuition program. The tuition team provides quality one-on-one tuition in a range of instruments by the best local teachers who bring with them a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise to the Yearstudents.7and8students learn contemporary music instruments, gain experience with real world recording and software, compositional and performance skills. The elective classes foster high level and industry standard performing skills, where students select their own focus instrument and perform regularly for a variety of live audiences. The music teachers at St John Paul College are highly regarded performers themselves and bring that experience into the classroom. This year music students have recorded upwards of 12 original compositions in the new recording studio, which is the latest addition to the department, offering budding composers real direction in the contemporary music industry.

For many years Coffs Harbour has been an engine room for live music and the performing arts. Many professional composers, performers, engineers and journalists in our contemporary and vibrant Australian culture were born and raised in our local Coffs Harbour school community.

Yr 10 Music Student SAM

Hi Sam, can you tell us a bit about yourself? I’m 15 years old from Coffs Harbour and I’m in year 10 at SJPC. I enjoy all things musical and have been involved in local theatre productions and enjoy playing guitar and jamming with mates. What do you enjoy about music at SJPC? I think it’s great that the teachers are helpful and are able to share their skills and advice on a range of instruments, especially as I play a few. The resources are of a high standard and cater for all of our needs, which we have access to for rehearsals whenever we want. This has given me a place to share my love of music with like-minded people from all walks of life. What has been your experience with music at SJPC? Overall, it has been a positive experience that has taught me life skills and has allowed me to network and form strong friendships. What are you looking forward to over the next few years? Exploring different genres of music, features and origins as I have a strong interest in deepening my knowledge of this. I also wish to further develop my songwriting and music production skills as I’m considering pursuing something in live production or recording after school.

MELINZ

he links between schools and the local business community are well documented from the school’s perspective. The concept of real-world relevance into the curriculum or sponsoring a school’s exciting co-curricular program remains important – no, I will rephrase that, it remains vital in the context of reduced school funding models and the increases in the cost of living. The article however is about focussing on the endless opportunities for businesses. Here are my top three: Corporate Social Responsibility

School Business Register: best-when-they-follow-seven-key-principlespartner-stem-education/school-business-partnerships-work-about-stem-education/how-can-schools-and-businesses-national-stem-education-resources-toolkit/i-want-know-Resource:alleducationbusinessmostNote:edu.au/our-community/business-directoryhttps://www.bdc.nsw.Theattachedresourceoutlinestheeffective7keyprinciplesofschoolandpartnerships.TheexampleisforSTEMbuttheprinciplesaretransferabletobusinesses.https://www.dese.gov.au/australian-curriculum/

WHALEBONE WHARF WHY PARTNER WITH YOUR LOCAL SCHOOL?

This term concentrates on a business’s sense of responsibility toward their local community.

Many businesses have achieved this with environmental strategies, for example, buy only locally made goods to support the circular economy and reduce transport kilometres.

86 COFFS COAST focus FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE with NICK JOHNSTONE EDUCATION UPDATE focus contributor.

Circular Community Growth When students achieve their personal goals through their schooling journey, everyone benefits and business involvement helps to show relevance to students. The students are more motivated to get an education and more aware of how it correlates to success beyond the classroom. Research correlates a strong link between business involvement and career education with increased school engagement and reduced dropout rates. And when students see the relevance for pursuing a career in a specific industry, they are motivated not only to stay in school but to do their best. This helps create positive growth within the community in both the short and long term. Community connected businesses are vested in schools because of their need for a strong pool of local workers to choose from and consumers who can afford their products. There is a wealth of opportunities available for businesses to partner with their local schools. School and business partnerships create a win-win situation for schools, businesses and, more importantly, our next generation.

World Prepared Workforce

Other businesses have partnered with local schools to supply afternoon tea for students and staff to support homework clubs. Research, from Harvard Business School, concluded that businesses with greater corporate social responsibility outperformed their counterparts in the longer term. This research purported that this process also built pride in the employer, generating team spirit and greater workplace satisfaction.

All secondary school graduates should be pathway ready regardless of whether their destination is trade placements, university, TAFE, or directly into the workforce. The evolution of the modern workforce has created the need for primary and secondary schools to design rigorous curriculums that prepare students to enter the post-secondary options of their choice. These curriculum changes focus on the 6Cs: Critical thinking, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, Citizenship and Character development on top of the literacy, numeracy and digital literacy skills required. Businesses need a workforce that are responsive to this requirement but can also support their growth. Our own research shows that students tend to be highly receptive to career education from local people working in their fields. At Bishop Druitt College, this is achieved through Vocational Tuesday (optional opportunities for guest speakers to speak with students at lunch time every Tuesday), Internships, traditional work experience blocks, excursions to business sites, and careers expos. Career education research indicates that career education with industry experience that is relevant and real world should occur early and regularly.

COFFS COAST focus 87 www.bdc.nsw.edu.au (02) 6651 enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au5644 111 North Boambee Road, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 FOLLOW US Meaningful, hands-on learning Specialist teachers Targeted & proactive wellbeing programs High Performance Program & Athlete Development ‘We are a community. We are innovative. We are inclusive. We prepare children for an exciting, dynamic life.' Bishop Druitt College Enrolling Now Years 11 & 12 2023 Kindy & Year 7 2024

One initiative – Ahead of the Game – is about to hit the international sporting spotlight.Co-led by Christian and the University of Wollongong’s Associate Professor Stewart Vella, Ahead of the Game is an official mental fitness program for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup which, thanks to the global pandemic, has been rescheduled to OctoberNovember 2022 in the UK. Such a major international event enables Ahead of the Game – which is funded by men’s health charity Movember – to spread With mental health now a prominent issue in elite sport, Southern Cross University’s Associate Professor Christian Swann is co-leading a program that directs the focus into the community. And it’s about to reach a global audience.

s professional athletes prove more willing to discuss the mental health challenges faced during and after their illustrious careers, an issue that once went unsaid is increasingly being heard.

88 COFFS COAST focus

In recent years, AFL’s Lance Franklin, tennis stars Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams, rugby league greats Greg Inglis and James Tedesco, cricketers Glen Maxwell and Will Pucovski, and Olympic legend Ian Thorpe, are among many to have come forward and told their stories.

Southern Cross University researcher, Associate Professor Christian Swann, applauds their courage before noting how it pays to remember that the nexus of sport and mental health is not solely the domain of the elite.

“Elite sport accounts for about two per cent of sports participation around the world,” says Christian. “We’re very conscious of the other 98 per cent, that majority of people who take part in sport mostly in community clubs. My priority is research and programs to improve mental health outcomes within this vast cohort, especially among adolescents.”

With so many more professional athletes opening up about their mental health, Christian says young athletes are eager to learn how their role models manage the challenges, stresses and anxieties in sport.

Originally from Donegal in Ireland, Christian might have eyed his own sporting career as a professional golfer until curiosity led him to specialise in sport psychology and mental health.After a decade at the University of Lincoln (UK) as an undergraduate student, PhD candidate and then lecturer in sport psychology, he came to Australia in 2015 to work on Ahead of the Game.

The rise of COVID-19 has only added to them.“The pandemic meant that young people have not been able to get out as much for sport and exercise in social and competition settings,” says Christian. “For many vulnerable young people, it exacerbated their vulnerability.”

“I think that’s an important message to launch from the global stage and then direct into local communities and sporting clubs everywhere.”SouthernCross University offers a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science and a combined Bachelor of Exercise Science and Psychological Science at the Coffs Harbour campus.

Christian’s research supports that resolve: “Teenage boys told us that their sporting clubs were a very accessible setting in which to have conversations with their coaches, parents and teammates around mental health. It is an environment they feel comfortable in and as such is conducive to reaching more young people. There is a shared experience, a shared vision, among the kitbags and uniforms before and after“Plus,training.they’re all in it together. Sporting teams go through a lot of ups and downs and teammates are more likely than classmates to be closer and to have each other’s backs. Teammates are also more used to talking about how things are going, including about how to get through those ups and downs together.”

Seven years later, with the Rugby League World Cup not far away, there is no complacency for Christian or the Ahead of the GameThatteam.willnot change when the World Cup ends, as Ahead of the Game ramps up and adapts for other sports, countries and cultures. Among programs in Australia, Christian has been working with Movember to deliver Ahead of the Game in rugby league communities in Far North Queensland, as well as online to deliver models for regional, remote and rural Australia.Morelocally, he is aiming to deliver elements of the program in Coffs Harbour later in 2022.

Sixty men take their own lives every hour in the world. We must do something about that, and it turns out that sport is an ideal entry point. That is a key element of Ahead of the Game.

Sporting teams go through a lot of ups and downs and teammates are more likely than classmates to be closer and to have each other’s backs. Teammates are also more used to talking about how things are going, including about how to get through those ups and together.downs

COFFS COAST focus 89 the message of mental health awareness and strategies to thousands of people involved in community level rugby league in the UK and beyond.Evenso, the World Cup is just one example of how Ahead of the Game is doing precisely as its name suggests. “Mental health has become such a huge part of sport,” says Christian, who joined Southern Cross University in 2018 and is now an Associate Professor in Psychology based at Coffs Harbour. “With that comes an increasing awareness of mental health issues in community sport, and from an early age. Almost one in seven adolescents will be experiencing problems at any given time.” Problems are wide-ranging and can stem from factors including upbringing, stigma, undeveloped or under-developed social and coping strategies. Impact is felt by individuals, families and communities – sometimes grievously.“Mental health is a bit of a monster,” says Christian. “In particular, it is killing men and young males. Sixty men take their own lives every hour in the world. We must do something about that, and it turns out that sport is an ideal entry point. That is a key element of Ahead of the Game.”

“We know the social, family and government investment in sport. We also know that Ahead of the Game works. It’s evidence-based and it is reaching a lot of young people,” says Christian. “We’re on our way to reaching the other 98 per cent.

With a clear plan in hand, your new-found career confidence will help to put you in the driver seat and be selective about where you focus your efforts to ensure they deliver maximal career advantage to you and deliver the outcomes and return on investment you are looking for.

• Are my unique skills, interests and capabilities matched to the current market and opportunities? (Am I employable?)

• Am I drifting along in my career not taking stock of my skills and their relevance to the wider market?

• Get in touch with a recruiter or recruitment agency: They can help keep you in the loop within your career specifications and support you in finding ongoing employment.

90 COFFS COAST focus But how many of us have a plan for one of the most important (and time consuming) aspects of our life – our career? We should all be asking why not? After all isn’t your career the underlying foundation of your wealth, your quality of life and your lifestyle? Isn’t it important enough to take time to plan for it, shape and mould it to deliver the value you want? Designing your career, like designing your life, is personal. It is based on your unique skills, interests and capabilities matched to the current market and the opportunities it presents.

• Take stock each year of your career, your job, your ambitions, the relevance of your current skill set, and how you are going to sustain and enhance your employability the coming year.

Important questions to ask yourself:

• Do an annual review of your career plan and progress or lack of it, blockages and new opportunities can help you to evaluate where you are and where to go next.

Call Chandler Macleod today for a career discussion 6691 9100 Many of us see accountants to plan our our finances, visit doctors and dentists for preventative checks, and even sign up to boot camps with trainers to keep our fitness in check!

• How would I be placed if there were to be an ‘out of the blue’ redundancy or I suddenly found I wanted to move jobs? How to design your career:

CAREER PLANNING With CHANDLER MACLEOD

COFFS COAST focus 91 1 Transaction account means a Youth, eFree or Community Partnership Account. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. See Fees & Charges located at www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au for full details. Please refer to the Target Market Determination and Account and Access Facility Conditions of Use located at www.regionalaustraliabank.com.au, when considering if these products are right for you. This information is current as at 21/06/2022 and is subject to change at anytime. Regional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 241167. group!HowtogivetoyourfavouritecommunitySimplyopenaRegionalAustraliaBanktransactionaccount 1 and ask to be a part of our Community Partnership Program! This unique program assists your favourite community group by giving them a bonus payment (equivalent to 0.75% of your average annual savings balance)! To find out how to be part of the Community Partnership Program and support your favourite community group, talk to Regional Australia Bank and join the revolution in community banking. 132 067 regionalaustraliabank.com.au

tlctaxation.com.auTLCTaxation@tlctaxation

My daughter Chloe, she brings out the best in me. She’s my cheerleader, and at times my debt collector (she’s very good at it). My brother-in-law Naser is an amazing father figure in my life, he has always been there for me. My sister, Najiba, always had very big dreams for me, first of which was to see me graduate university. She was very proud of me that day. Most importantly my sister Zahida who is always there for me. She taught me that anyone is capable of anything if you just try.

I run a small, but growing, boutique accounting practice. With overwhelming local community and Government support, while I don’t have a fancy office in town, I dream of it often. But for now my home office does the job. What’s your favourite part of the work you do? Without a doubt it has to be the happiness on my clients’ faces and the gratitude when they hear me say the words “you have a refund due”. It’s a badge of honour to pay taxes, a small refund is better than none, and a bill means you’re a successful member of society and you should be proud of yourself. Who is your greatest influence in business?

Burmese people don’t care about where you live, they only care if you are hardworking”. Rouland brought close to 200 clients and he patiently translated for every single person who needed it. I felt compassion, respect and admiration at the time I needed it most. Where can people find out more about your business?

I was born in Kurdistan, Iraq. In late 1989 there was a civil war in Iraq and we were refugees. We had to walk from Iraq to Iran. I can’t remember how long it took us but it’s the biggest part of my childhood memories. We were housed in Iranian refugee camps for a while. It wasn’t long before we received news that my father had passed away (he was old and fragile). Incredibly blessed and lucky to be alive, my brothers and sisters sought asylum in Australia. We arrived in Sydney in November 1992. I was 9 years old and I grew up mostly in Western Sydney. In 2014 I moved to Coffs Harbour with my baby girl to be closer to her grandparents.Wefellinlove with the beach and the sun. We absolutely love the beach, hiking and the community. Everyone is incredibly friendly and all local businesses genuinely appreciate your support. In December 2019 our dream of becoming homeowners became a reality for my little girl and I. What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? Never be ashamed of your past or circumstance, these things do not define you. Find a product or service you believe you can turn into a viable profitable business and work hard to achieve it (come talk to me about your ideas, I will help you figure it out). Blood, sweat and tears will ultimately be very rewarding and will help you succeed. For a long time I was too ashamed to invite people into my home. I often met clients at cafés, restaurants, their homes and even the library to prepare tax returns.

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One day in 2018 a man named Rouland called and insisted on coming to my place to get help with his tax return. I was apprehensive but gave it a try. While I was attending to his tax return he said his community needed help with their tax returns. I explained that I wasn’t comfortable with clients coming to my house, and he looked around and said “What’s wrong with it?

FROM THE CATH

DIGITAL LANEWAY with

Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast?

TALABANIMARIAM

FOWLER IN BUSINESS WOMEN focus contributor. T L C TAXATION

Can you tell us a little bit about your business?

94 COFFS COAST focus Same great team. Same great showroom. Same great product. Same great service Previously Accent Bathrooms P: 02 6652 9322 E: coffsharbour@design10.com.au A: 2/12 Isles Dr, Coffs Harbour www.design10.com.au Book consultationdesignyourtoday! BEACH OR BUSH EXCLUSIVE BUYERS AGENTS

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COFFS COAST focus 95

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“It’s a walk to Toormina, to the shops and the doctor. You can walk down and get the paper or go for coffee, and everything else you want, like restaurants, movies and the beach is close too.”- David. Marian Grove Village is well-known for being a welcoming and connected community. Your like-minded neighbours will always give you a smile and a ‘hello’ as you pass by on your way to one of the many activities on offer, from art classes to table tennis to bus trips around the beautiful Mid North Coast.

Another consideration when choosing your ideal retirement home and lifestyle is being able to access additional care should you ever require it. Access to doctors, services, Coffs Harbour Health Campus (hospital) and Coffs Harbour Regional Airport are all within 10 minutes from Marian Grove by car, offering peace of mind for the future that allows you to live fully in the present. Co-located on the village’s beautiful 40 acres of land is residential care home Mater Christi, and our Sawtell Home Care service is quickly growing a reputation for unconditional kindness and support.

The continuum of care at Marian Grove is always evolving and adapting to the needs of our residents as they change over time, sustaining their independence and enhancing their quality of life.

0490 522 scca.net.au/independentmariangrovesales@scca.net.au596

Something I found so helpful was the way all the new residents are supported by the staff to get to know each other with little events and get togethers, and the staff and residents are all unfailingly friendly.

Approaching the adventure of creating your own perfect retirement lifestyle can mean everything is on the table. Are you looking for a tree change, sea change, or maybe you’d rather stay put?

At peaceful, secure Marian Grove, just a few minutes from some of the region’s most stunning beaches and national parks, with boutique stores, tennis courts, cafes, restaurants, RSL Club and cinema in the charming seaside village of Sawtell, you can really have it all. For the golf enthusiasts, not one, but three courses, Bonville, Sawtell and Coffs Harbour are also located a short drive from Marian Grove.

“It was the best move I could have made.”Julie.Marian Grove offers you a no-stress retirement lifestyle with home options to suit every taste, from villas to townhouses, to apartment living, and prices to suit every budget.Ourcurrent promotion offers anyone who moves into one of our apartments $2000.00 towards their window coverings and 3 months waived maintenance fees up to the value of $1700.00. Apartments are selling fast, so why not give us a call today and arrange for a visit with our friendly sales team? We’d love to hear from you.

With “Our Lady of The Way” Chapel hosting regular services and The Link, our huge 3.6-acre garden providing a tranquil, protected environment for even more activities like foodie workshops, gardening, walking groups and just visiting with family and friends, everything is right on your doorstep.

“Something I found so helpful was the way all the new residents are supported by the staff to get to know each other with little events and get togethers, and the staff and residents are all unfailingly friendly. I haven’t met a grumpy person all the whole time I’ve been here!” - Mary Lou.

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Come Home to MarianLIFESTYLEGrove Stress Free RETIREMENT LIVING ON THE COFFS COAST DON’T MISS WINTEROURWARMERPROMOTION* AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY!MARIAN GROVE 6653SELLINGAPARTMENTSFAST!1241•0490522596•www.scca.net.au CALL OUR FRIENDLY SALES TEAM ON (02) 6653 1241 SAWTELL CATHOLICCAR E Sawtell Catholic Care - Departure Fee Payable - Enquire for more information WINTER WARMER PROMOTION $2000 TOWARDS WINDOW COVERINGS AND 3 MONTHS WAIVED MAINTENANCE FEES UP TO THE VALUE OF $1700 *TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY.

• Ask yourself - what is most important to me and my family? Why is it important? What interests us most?

It’s important to consider your and your family’s lifestyle goals when choosing your new home. Get clear about what you want and set realistic expectations. With a clear vision comes the motivation and excitement of creating what’s possible. A lot can be riding on your move and if you’re unclear about what you’re trying to achieve, chances are you’ll fall short of your expectations. Creating a clear vision will help alleviate problems and any regrets.

• Make a list of your Must Haves, Wants and Don’t Wants Remember to consider any future family members if you’re starting a family or considering a granny flat for parents. RESEARCH & PLAN Nothing is ever perfect, but if you’ve done your research and planning, you’ll be informedmakingdecisions and are less likely to be disappointed with your choices. Uncover what’s great and not so great about any area you’re considering. Options to consider can include the length of time to drive to conveniences or would you prefer to walk? What’s important to have nearby? Such as, a playground, bike paths, cafes & restaurants, a beach, bush walks or walking paths, medical facilities, shops, schools, sporting facilities, gym etc. You should also consider the state of the house next door and houses in the street. What are the neighbours like? Does the neighbourhood fit with your vision? Having a plan of action and doing your homework are imperative for creating the ideal lifestyle for you and your family. Get clear about what you want and set theaexpectations.realisticWithclearvisioncomes motivation and excitement of creating what’s possible.

98 COFFS COAST focus BEACH OR BUSH EXCLUSIVE BUYERS’ AGENTS with VANESSA SIMPSON BUYING PROPERTY focus contributor. CREATING YOUR IDEAL LIFESTYLE; WHY YOUR HOUSE SEARCH SHOULD INCLUDE SEARCH...NEIGHBOURHOODA

Tips

he research, planning and design of your new lifestyle should be considered an integral part of your property journey. The novelty of a new home environment fades with time, so it’s important to have other external factors to solidify your choice.

PRICES TO SUIT EVERY BUDGET, HOME OPTIONS TO SUIT EVERY TASTE. Come Home to MarianLIFESTYLEGrove SAWTELL CATHOLICCAR E CALL our friendly Marian Grove Sales team on (02) 6653 1241 or 0490 522 596 EMAIL mariangrovesales@scca.net.au - VISIT www.scca.net.au MARIAN GROVE - SAWTELL CATHOLIC CARE - DEPARTURE FEE PAYABLE - ENQUIRE FOR MORE INFO - LIFESTYLE IMAGES INCLUDED THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO Come Home to Marian Grove ENQUIRE TODAY! ONLY MINUTES FROM SHOPPING, SAWTELLAMENITIES,BEACH,BOAMBEECREEKRESERVE,+LEISUREACTIVITIES Stress Free RETIREMENT LIVING ON THE COFFS COAST

By supporting the natural curvature of your spine, adjustable beds work to create the ultimate stress relief by reducing pressure throughout the body and helping to alleviating muscle and joint pain.

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Discover better sleep with some adjustable beds boasting cuttingedge technology that’s second to none. Choose from a selection of pre-set programs that can help reduce your snoring for an undisturbed sleep. Enjoy the weightless feeling of Zero-G which evenly distributes weight and helps promote spinal alignment for a personalised position with maximum support. For added luxury, indulge in a relaxing massage to truly settle in for a serene sleep. With additional technological features such as Bluetooth compatibility and USB charging ports in some, convenience is at your fingertips. Simply choose a size that best suits you and prepare to change the way you sleep forever. You can also choose adjustable bases that fit on top of your existing bed frame or ensemble, or you can simply have the adjustable base fit inside most existing bed frames. Live the lifestyle you desire, with the relief and comfort of an adjustable bed, featuring new designs for even the most discerning home maker. COFFS

n adjustable bed gives your whole body an upgrade by providing customised support that may improve posture, circulation, and digestion.

HARBOUR DREAM Living The

So you’re having the jitters. Your open house is tomorrow. And first impressions count!

to allow for more breathing room. If visitors can’t move about freely because there are obstructions along the way, chances are they’re likely to go somewhere else. Buyers will want to see the size of the closets, so eliminate the clutter. Leave the clothes and shoes neatly hung, but remove your grandmother’s old sewing machine. If you have a family at home, don’t forget the children’s bedrooms. You know you’ve always wanted an excuse to clean up the toys, this is your chance. If the kids haven’t played with it for a while, pack it up and store it, they will get a kick out of getting it out of storage at your new home. Be considerate – while dogs and other pets are adorable creatures, they have no place in an open house. One or two of your buyers might not be animal lovers or are allergic to animal hair. Some buyers also know of the damage and dirt these creatures leave in their tracks, so keep them out of the house until the open house is over. I know they are part of the family, but they are not part of the family who are buying or looking to buy your home. And oh yes, how about some nice, delicate flowers that don’t give off a strong smell? This simple gesture will do wonders to liven up your home. Choose different pastel colours to serve as a contrast to the neutral background. On the morning of the open home, open the windows and doors if weather permits, there is nothing like fresh air. Also take into account the season. If it’s a hot day, turn on the air conditioner half an hour before the open, nothing is more welcoming than a cool home on a hot day, and vice versa a warm home on a cold Aboveday.all, trust in the advice of your real estate Thanksagent. for reading.

Help your real estate agent make it an open house to remember. Help them clinch that sale. The rule of thumb is to prepare well in advance, and not 24 hours before. Twenty-four hours will not be sufficient time for the nitty-gritty that will make or break a public showing. You remember how it was during school. If we crammed, we most likely failed the exam the next day. But when we studied weeks in advance, we felt we knew the subject matter by heart. The same principle applies to open houses. The harder and longer you prepare, the better the results will be. It may even put a few extra thousand dollars in your pocket!

Buyers will want to see the size of the closets, so eliminate the clutter. Leave the clothes and shoes neatly hung, but remove sewinggrandmother’syouroldmachine.

Make a Lasting First Impression – most real estate agents agree: a clean house is the # 1 priority. The word “clean”, however, does not only mean a house that has been tidied up a few hours earlier, a walkway that was swept and hosed over, or windows that were cleared of dust and dirt. “Clean” means a lot more than Studiesthat.have shown that dwellings painted in neutral colours convey a more pleasant and warmer welcome to visitors; they are able to visualise better about how their own personal effects can blend with the colours. Imagine having a wall that’s painted fire engine red or bedrooms that look more like an artist’s mural because too many psychedelic colours are flooding the eye. Re-painting your house may not be a must, but if you decide to do so, do it a few weeks before, that way the fumes don’t Thelinger.clutter, please – if you don’t want your potential buyers to trip just as they’re entering the house, andunnecessaryeliminatefurniturehouseaccessories

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FROM UNREAL ESTATE with CHRIS HINES REAL ESTATE focus contributor.

Aria 28 Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. We have over 150 different flooryour easier different plans to choose from, including single and two storey, granny flat and dual occupancy… there’s sure to be a designincluding two storey, flat occupancy… sure to suit your lifestyle. Whether you have a flat or a sloping block of any size, even knocking down your existingknocking down house to rebuild a new home, you can be sure we can bring your vision to life.to If you can dream it, we can build it. You dream it. We build it. Aria 28Caulfield 26 NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. Visit one of our stunning display homes today!homes Moonee Beach Estate 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. Open Saturday to Wednesday 10am-4pm Contact : Phillip Hitchins 0428 271 884 perryhomes.com.auperryhomes.com.auphillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.auphillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au884 Sawtell Commons Estate 4 Angler Court, Bonville. Open Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm Contact : Tracey Lavelle 0434 499 829 tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.autracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au829 E33482

Coffs Coast Focus - i140

Articles inside

Real Estate - Chris Hines

Buying Property - Vanessa Simpson

Youth Leaders - Cassandra Wilson

Education Update - Nick Johnstone

Money Matters - Barry Hockey

From the Shaker - Element Bar

Women in Business - Cath Fowler

PFLAG - Sam Dawson

Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas

State of Play - Gurmesh Singh