Coffs Coast Focus - i158

MELANIE GREENAWAY

www.cvas.nsw.edu.au

Cathedral Campus (PreKinder to Year 2) (02) 6642 2011 jsreception@cvas.nsw.edu.au

Clarenza Campus (Years 3 - 12) (02) 6642 8205 ssreception@cvas.nsw.edu.au

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Paul Donovan is a local legend, and has managed Stormy’s Tyre and Auto for more than 20 years. Anyone that’s crossed paths with him knows he’s got a killer sense of humour and is always happy to help.

Sally Taylor has spent her life working with horses and she wants to share the benefits of spending time with horses and learning how to connect with them with the rest of the community.

So Fun Gymnastics had been around for over 14 years and when it went up for sale a group of parents who didn’t want to see the club close decided to band together and turn it into a not-for-profit community club.

PAUL

Welcome to

arch is the month when we celebrate the wonderful women in our working community… and not just here at FOCUS! Internationally women are the topic of conversation; with International Women’s Day falling on March 8th.This year the theme for International Women’s Day is #countherin and this theme has been adopted locally for the celebratory event at Coffs Harbour Racing Club on the day. Hosted by Zonta, BPW, BWN, and special guest speaker Melissa Harvey. FOCUS is proud to again support this event. Tickets are available from Humanitix.

Locally, we are proud to bring our special Women in Business edition to you - a platform for local women to shine bright and share their stories. Powerful female leaders are quick to empower other women in the workplace, are emotionally intelligent and are fueled by a

the

strong vision and sense of purpose. The woman that is representing our cover this month is a true definition of all three of these traits plus many more. Melanie Greenaway has a proven track record of running successful real estate business so we think she is the perfect fit to be on the cover of our Women in Business edition. In this edition

The theme for this year’s World Down Syndrome Day is ‘ending the stereotypes’. For people with Down syndrome, stereotypes often lead to being underestimated or excluded. A local teen who has been busy smashing stereotypes is Raji Renshaw, a model, actor and advocate for his community. Raji is signed to an international talent agency, has walked the fashion runways of Sydney and Brisbane and featured in a short film screening at the National Museum of Australia and in Beijing. You may have also seen him in the recent Lamb Australia and Toyota TV commercials. Paul Donovan is a local legend, and has managed

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WEB

Dylan

Stormy’s Tyre and Auto for more than 20 years. Anyone that’s crossed paths with him knows he’s got a killer sense of humour and is always happy to help.

Marley Morgan is a photographer who uses her camera to tell stories, to communicate and express herself. She uses the artform to lift people up, to create art, and she is a great advocate for her Indigenous community and culture. Marley is also starting a mentoring program called Shutter Sista’s that aims to provide photography workshops for women in remote areas.

We had a new member join the FOCUS family last month. Our circulations co-ordinator, Bree McNickle and her partner Jim announced the birth of their gorgeous baby boy, Roman James Roderick Evans. Born on the 12th February 2024, weighing 7lb 1oz. Congratulations Bree and Jim. He is beyond perfect!

Thank you to all of the fabulous men and women who are part of this edition!

RAJI

The theme for this year’s World Down Syndrome Day is ‘ending the stereotypes’. For people with Down syndrome, stereotypes often lead to being underestimated or excluded. A local teen who has been busy smashing stereotypes is Raji Renshaw, a model, actor and advocate for his community.

Raji is signed to an international talent agency, has walked the fashion runways of Sydney and Brisbane and featured in a short film screening at the National Museum of Australia and in Beijing. You may have also seen him in the recent Lamb Australia and Toyota TV commercials. Hi Raji. You’re very involved in the performing arts, can you tell us what you love about performing and how you got started?

I love acting! I started when I was a kid, I would do shows for my family and anyone who visited us. My favourite thing to do is to be a part of performances and projects. I love music and dancing especially. My first theatre production was Aladdin with Liberty Youth

The music is exciting, I get to dance and I can feel my heart beating, doing what I love! The audience cheers for me and I feel a real connection with them.

Theatre. I am a big fan of musicals. I really enjoy theatre, I have made great friends there. It’s where I feel connected to people. My first short film when I was younger was ‘Ochre and Sky' about the culture of Australia.

Modelling is a great part of my life. I love modelling because I get to experience different things and go to the city. I love the outfits and trying new looks. I like working with my agent Zebedee Talent.

Could you share with us some highlights of your journey as an actor, model and dancer?

My first time on the catwalk was the best experience of my life. I love walking the

runway, I love a crowd, this makes me feel good and happy. I did Brisbane and Sydney Kidz Fashion Week. The music is exciting, I get to dance and I can feel my heart beating, doing what I love! The audience cheers for me and I feel a real connection with them. I really enjoy it.

SpongeBob The Musical was a highlight. I played Larry the Lobster, a muscular lobster who is a bodyguard. I like all of the songs of SpongeBob. We performed at Jetty Theatre.

I am in the Lamb Australia BBQ ad. We went on a road trip to Sydney to do the work. It was a 12 hour day on set, I was exhausted but doing what I really love. I worked with lots of people, they had the best crew there and lots of other actors. Now I have another ad for Toyota. I had to jump in a pool, overcoming my fear. I love how it feels to be proud and enjoy myself.

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RAJI

We hear you have been working hard on your debut short film! Can you tell us a bit about it and how this project came about?

Well I love movies! The thing I love about making films is… I love making films! I always wanted to make my own film. I wanted to make a film about teenage superheroes. The inspiration was my own life and the Teen Titans Go, a comedy TV series. I was inspired to make my own movie with an awesome sound track and cool characters and the setting needs to be the best and a cool poster.

I thought of all the ideas. There is a boy called Robin who becomes the super hero Doctor Time and he defeats his fear and his arch enemy Evil Time. It’s the story of being a teenager and taking control of the destiny of your own life.

I worked with my mentor Steve Grace, who helped me to write the script and plan the characters and storyboards. I created the characters, designed costumes and the whole story of the film.

What has the process been like bringing this film to life? What have your roles been on the film?

I worked with my mentor Steve Grace, who helped me to write the script and plan the characters and storyboards. I created the characters, designed costumes and the whole story of the film. I am helping with the editing and songs too. We have been doing lots of

filming and different scenes, lots of work.

Can you tell us about some of the others that worked with you on the film?

Steve is my mentor and he is also the Director. He is an incredible Director. I love to see Steve, he is a legend. Working with Steve and Dad has been the best part of this. I asked my friends from theatre to do the main roles, the four main characters with me. Luke is the strong muscular character called Black Wolf. Nya is a teenage princess fighter. Then Flynn is a mischievous villain. I wanted to be the team leader, the captain, leading his superhero friends.

The community helped a lot as well, being extras, I really love how they did this for the

film. All the help I got from my family was incredible, they helped me a lot. We all made the film come to life. We smashed this film. I am so excited and proud of myself and everyone for doing this. You’re going to be having a film premiere soon, could you share some details about the event?

speech, and cake!

World Down Syndrome Day is the 21st of this month. As a proud advocate for your T21 community, is there a message you would like to get out into the wider community about Down Syndrome?

I want to show them how I am, how I feel, how we all feel love and big thanks to the world. We are lucky to be

syndrome, we go camping together. We catch up online and visit when we can.

I will say this to all the people out there just like me, with Down syndrome. I want to show them how I am, how I feel, how we all feel love and big thanks to the world. We are lucky to be different. We are all different and together we are all one, that’s who we are. I am really proud to be me. To people with Down syndrome, follow your dreams!

di erent.

The film will show at the Bellingen Memorial Hall as part of a mini film festival. There will also be other short films that have people with Down syndrome, teenagers and different disabilities. Lots of action and comedy; also a

When I was born my family needed to give me special care and love. I had the care from my totem animal too, which is the pelican. When I die I will be a pelican, they explore beaches and have a wonderful life. I am the only kid in my family who has Down syndrome. I have friends with Down

Looking ahead, what are some of your goals and aspirations for your future in the performing arts?

I want to be in a Disney movie, that’s my ultimate dream. For now I am working hard in theatre and doing auditions to get acting jobs. My next big project is a cooking show. I do Hip Hop classes to keep getting better at dance, and I am going to the gym and working on my pecs!

Doctor Time will premiere as part of a mini film festival championing youth and diversity at the Bellingen Memorial Hall, 4.00pm Saturday 13th April. All proceeds to Celebrate T21, an advocacy and support organisation “re-writing the narrative” for Down syndrome.

Tickets available soon, for details see @Raj_ Zebedee_Model on Instagram, Raj Zebedee Model on Facebook or Bellingen Memorial Hall.

mccarthy

Hi Maxi, you are a bit of an all rounder and really into sports. Which sports do you play?

I'm currently playing 6 a side soccer, oztag and have just had my first surfing comp with Coffs Harbour Boardriders. I'm signed up to start the soccer and rugby season soon, which starts in March. I recently finished the touch footy season and played rugby league last year with the Coffs Comets.

When I’m not doing teams or competitive sports, I scoot and skate as often as I can, living near the skate park helps.

What do you love most about the sports and the teams you are part of?

Making friends is definitely a highlight. Playing with them over the years and watching each other improve is so cool. I play with heaps of great players, they motivate me to get better. Working together as a team, trying to achieve a goal is something I like, especially when we win!

Being a part of a team and playing sports keeps me active and healthy. It’s so fun, I love it!

I've enjoyed joining the Coffs Harbour Boardriders community, it helped me surf more confidently and meet even more mates. I love the presentations at the Hoey Moey, hanging

out with the other groms and having fun, riding skateboards and mucking around.

What do you feel have been some of your biggest achievements so far?

Being able to travel to di erent places, surfing new waves and meeting new people is a dream for sure. One day I would love to be on the WSL, World Tour for surfing.

Being selected to play in Sydney to represent the Mid North Coast Crusaders in rugby union is one for sure! We played against some awesome teams, it was a tough competition and an amazing experience. I made the zone touch footy trials and progressed through a few rounds there which I was proud of.

My school rugby team has won 2 grand finals in a row. Last year's grand final we got to play at the International Stadium under the big lights. There was a big crowd and it was even streamed live on YouTube.

What are you most looking forward to this year when it comes to sport?

Being my first year at board riders I’m really looking forward to getting into that, it’s so fun doing something new. I’m also excited about playing rugby union with all of my school friends in the Friday night comp for St Augustine’s Primary. We have won the last 2 grand finals and we’re all really keen to try

to do it again this year. Getting into the area's rep team again would be awesome, if I’m lucky enough.

Who has been your inspiration?

When it comes to surfing, it’s Ethan Ewing. He is an amazing surfer. I love his smooth style, and the big turns he does. He sounds so humble and kind as well, which I really like.

When it comes to footy - Reece Walsh for sure. He’s such a great player, incredibly fast and moves so well across the field. His passing game is something I have been trying to do when I play. To play and surf like them one day would be a dream come true.

What are your dreams and goals for the future?

I’d love to keep being as active and involved in sport as I can. I’m super competitive and love learning how to get better at the things I love doing. Being able to travel to different places, surfing new waves and meeting new people is a dream for sure. One day I would love to be on the WSL - World Tour for Surfing and if not that, it’s definitely a dream to make it in the NRL playing for the Blues!

Thanks Maxi

HARBOURSIDE MARKETS

Support your local business community, and you can’t get more local than this! Your favourite food trucks, art, jewelry, clothing, beauty & lifestyle products, plants, vintage and collectable stalls. Harbourside Market’s philosophy of ethical and fair-trade, locally made, and locally grown guarantees you a unique experience. When Every Sunday

Where Jetty Foreshores Time 8am - 2pm

WOMEN’S DAY BREAKFAST

Celebrating women of the Coffs Coast through the Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award and Annual Breakfast. This years theme is #Countherin, With keynote speaker Melissa Harvey.

When 8th March

Where Coffs Harbour Racing Club Tickets humanitix.com

CHARITY TRIVIA NIGHT

Local 7 year old Robert Sanders, is fighting Brain Cancer. Every dollar raised is going towards helping him on his courageous journey. When 9th March

Where Sawtell RSL Tickets $160 per table of 8 available from sawtellrsl.com.au

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THE ROBERTSON BROTHERS

Following their sold out national tour in 2023, Australia’s new ‘Kings of Variety Television’ are back in 2024 with a brand new show! The Robertson Brothers are thrilled to be returning with their new heart-warming and uplifting 1960’s Variety TV Show!

When 16th March Where C.ex Coffs Tickets $55 fromcex.com.au

YOU AM I

YOU AM I, a beloved Australian rock band with enough runs on the board, awards, stats, and shows under their belt to enter legend status has announced show dates nationally. After a quiet year, and with some cities having not seen a You Am I headline show for over 3 years, these shows are well overdue and much anticipated. When 15th March

Where The Hoey Moey Doors 8:30pm Tickets hoeymoey.com.au

SPORTSMANS LUNCH

15 22

In the face of tragedy, our community comes together to extend our heartfelt support to the Rooney family after the untimely passing of their daughter Jess Rooney in a motor vehicle accident, leaving behind four beautiful children who now face the challenges of life without their beloved mother. Join our host Darryl Brohman, for an afternoon of entertainment and fun as we unite to honour Jess’s memory. Tickets Include 2 course meal & drinks. All proceeds after event costs go directly to the Rooney family.

When 22nd March Where Sawtell RSL

Time 12pm - 3pm

Tickets $150 pp tables of 6 or 12

For enquiries Contact 0404399629

SCAN TO VIEW MENUS AND TRADING

SHUTTER SISTA’S

Marley Morgan is a photographer who uses her camera to tell stories, to communicate and express herself. SHE USES THE ARTFORM TO LIFT PEOPLE UP, TO CREATE ART, AND SHE IS A GREAT ADVOCATE FOR HER INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY AND CULTURE. Marley is also starting a mentoring program called Shu er Sista’s that aims to provide photography workshops for women in remote areas.

Hi Marley. Can you tell us about your journey as a photographer and what initially sparked your interest in photography?

My passion for photography began in childhood when I was captivated by the beauty of the world around me. Growing up in a small town, I found joy in capturing moments with a basic point-andshoot camera gifted to me by my parents. Over the years, I have honed my photography skills and developed a deep passion for capturing emotions, light, and unique perspectives through my lens. Photography has allowed me to freeze moments in time, creating lasting memories that can be cherished forever. My work celebrates themes of culture, womanhood, fashion, and art. How would you describe your style of photography?

I strive to blend elements of history and modernity in my work, creating captivating visual stories that pay homage to the past while embracing the present.

My style of photography is deeply influenced by the rich tapestry of culture and the breathtaking beauty of nature. I find inspiration in the vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and diverse traditions that surround me, infusing my work with a sense of depth and authenticity. Lately, my creative vision has been ignited by delving into the archives of fashion photography from eras past. The timeless elegance, avant-garde styles, and artistic expressions of vintage fashion imagery have sparked a new wave of creativity in my photography. I strive to blend elements of history and modernity in my work, creating captivating visual stories that pay homage to the past while embracing the present.

How do you feel your work has developed and evolved over the years?

Over the years, my photography journey has been a continuous evolution of growth, learning, and selfdiscovery.

I have embraced new techniques, experimented with different styles, and pushed the boundaries of my creativity to refine my craft. Through dedication and passion, I have honed my skills in capturing emotions, playing with light, and exploring unique perspectives.

Each photo I take reflects my growth as an artist, showcasing a blend of experience, inspiration, and personal expression. As I look back on my body of work, I see a progression from the early days of simple snapshots to more complex and thought-provoking compositions. I am proud of how my photography has evolved to tell deeper stories, evoke stronger emotions, and resonate with viewers on a profound level.

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What are some of your favourite subjects or types of shoots to work on?

Fashion photography is my passion and my muse. It is a realm where I feel truly alive, where I can unleash my creativity and express myself in the most vibrant and captivating ways. Through fashion photography, I have found a channel to translate my vision into art, to play with colours, textures, and styles to create visually stunning narratives. One of the most rewarding aspects of photographing fashion is the opportunity to collaborate with incredibly talented and creative individuals. I have had the pleasure of working with designers, models, stylists, and makeup artists who have enriched my journey with their unique

In the world of fashion photography, I have found a sense of freedom, expression, and fulfilment that fuels my artistic soul and drives me to explore new horizons in every shot I take.

perspectives and boundless creativity. Together, we have created magic, pushed the boundaries of imagination and bringing forth stunning visual stories that resonate with audiences. Fashion photography is not just about capturing garments; it is about capturing emotions, stories, and moments in time. It is a medium through which I can communicate my deepest thoughts and feelings, connecting with viewers on a profound level. In the world of fashion photography, I have found a sense of freedom, expression, and fulfilment that fuels my artistic soul and drives me to explore new horizons in every shot I take.

Photography can be used as a form of storytelling, how has photography helped you share your own story as well as those of your clients?

Photography has been my sanctuary, my haven where I can navigate the complexities of social anxiety and express myself without words. Through the lens of my camera, I have found a voice, a means of communication that transcends the barriers of verbal expression. Photography has allowed me to channel my emotions, fears, and struggles into visual narratives, creating a space where I can share my innermost thoughts and feelings without the weight of words. As I capture moments through my lens, I find solace in the act of storytelling. Each photograph becomes a chapter in my own story, a reflection of my

journey, my growth, and my battles with social anxiety. Through photography, I have learned to embrace vulnerability, to find beauty in imperfections, and to celebrate the nuances of the human experience. Moreover, photography has enabled me to connect with others on a deeper level, to share their stories, their joys, and their struggles through visual storytelling. Whether it's capturing the raw emotions of a client or conveying the essence of a moment in time, photography has served as a bridge between different worlds, bringing people together through the universal language of images. In essence, photography has not only helped me share my own story but has also empowered me to amplify the voices of others, to shed light on their narratives, and to create a sense of empathy and understanding through the art of visual storytelling. It is through photography that I have found healing, connection, and a profound sense of purpose in sharing stories that resonate with the human spirit.

You’re going to be volunteering some of your time towards your new mentoring program, can you tell us about it and what you’re going to be offering?

Growing up in a remote se ing has bestowed upon me a profound understanding of the limited opportunities accessible to our people, especially in the realm of the arts.

This year marks the launch of "Shutter Sista's" Photography and Mentoring Workshops, a pioneering initiative tailored for Indigenous women in remote communities. These workshops are meticulously crafted to empower and inspire participants who harbour a passion for photography, whether as a hobby or a career pursuit. Growing up in a remote setting has bestowed upon me a profound understanding of the limited opportunities accessible to our people, especially in the realm of the arts. With "Shutter Sista's," my vision is to establish a platform that nurtures and uplifts Indigenous women, encouraging them to delve into the

realms of photography and visual arts with confidence and zeal. To ensure that this initiative reaches the farthest corners of Australia, I am actively seeking donations to underwrite the travel expenses associated with conducting these workshops. Your generous contribution will play a pivotal role in enabling us to facilitate these transformative experiences for Indigenous women residing in remote communities, fostering creativity, empowerment, and skill development in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Where can people see more of your work or get in touch?

My work can be found at marleymorgan.com.au or instagram @marleymorganphotography

DONOVAN

Paul Donovan is a local legend, and has managed Stormy’s Tyre and Auto for more than 20 years. Anyone that’s crossed paths with him knows he’s got a killer sense of humour and is always happy to help.

i Paul. Can you tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I have a long history here with Coffs. I am originally from Sydney and spent my childhood holidaying here with my family every chance we got. Eventually my parents decided to take the plunge and moved here for good in 1985. We settled down in Park Beach and the rest is history. I have been here ever since, raising my own family in Coramba. It’s hard to beat the beaches and the lifestyle here.

thing about my job. Seeing them, creating relationships that quite often turn into friendships, is such a highlight. I enjoy being busy – there is never a dull moment at Stormy’s!

Tell us a bit about what you do and how you got into the trade?

I am the Store Manager for Stormy’s Tyre and Auto on the Pacific Highway. I have managed this store for 20+ years. I fell into this line of work by chance really.

What are the most challenging things about your job?

There aren’t too many challenges that I find within my job. I enjoy all aspects of it. The challenges of when I started to now are vastly different. The job used to be very physical, however, advances with machinery have alleviated a lot of stress on the body, which in turn helps how we work and how fast we can help out customers.

What might a typical day on the job be like?

NO DAY IS THE SAME, THERE IS LOTS OF VARIETY AND MY TIME IS BEST SPENT WHEN I AM HELPING OTHERS.

I had taken a gap year after leaving high school and was surfing all day every day. Eventually my Dad explained to me (or rather told me) that I needed to get a job. I walked into Good Year for an interview in1992 and walked out with a job. I started at the bottom of the ladder sweeping floors and cleaning up the workshop and I slowly worked my way up.

What are the best things about your job?

My customers are by far the best

A typical day starts with me starting before my staff, just to manage emails and set up for the day. Once the shop opens it’s go go go! I manage all aspects of the business from invoicing, customer enquiries and service, 24hr call outs, to getting out into the workshop and helping the boys with tyre fitting. No day is the same, there is lots of variety and my time is best spent when I am helping others.

Can you tell us about the team there?

I have four staff working with me every day. JB, Macka, Ben and Josh. We just lost

our youngest team member Kai to the Defence Force. Between us we have over 100 years worth of service experience within this line of work.

What are some things your customers might not know about you?

I have a deep passion for Harleys! I own two and take them out with my partner on the back every chance I get (I have converted her into a lover of motorbikes). I have three grown up children of my own who I have raised here on the Coffs Coast. I am one of five children, and all my siblings live here in Coffs as well.

What do you like to get up to when you’re not on the job?

When I am not at work I spend my time exploring the coast with my partner and our kids.

We are always looking for an adventure or somewhere new to see.

What are some of your goals for the future?

Retire! (joking). My goals are to take more holidays and create more memories with my family and friends. I want to enjoy my life and plan on spending my future doing the things I love with the people I love.

Thanks Paul.

Michael Mooney

Mick Mooney has had an incredibly successful and interesting career in music, from writing and composing, to touring globally with his band Le Trouble. Mick has since brought his wealth of passion and knowledge to our local community through projects like Grow The Music and now as the Coordinator of the Bellingen Youth Hub.

Hey Mick, you have lived a life full of music, where did the journey begin? Music crashed into my life at precisely the right time, in precisely the right guise. I was a good but wayward kid who found himself on the outs with school at 16. I managed to land a labouring gig at the steelworks in Port Kembla on the South Coast of NSW, shovelling the coal that had fallen off the conveyor belts during transit. It was hard labour.

During that period in labouring limbo, two things converged that opened the path of song for me  – the first was the realisation that if I didn’t find a pathway out of the mines, I could wind up trapped there indefinitely, and I simply wasn’t right for the place.

The second was the high school music teacher who had, by pure accident, heard me singing at a year 10 camp. At his insistence, and despite having no musical history, I returned to school to focus on music.

He was a man unlike most in my orbit at that time, and particularly, he was different from my volatile father. He had a philosophical bent and spoke of the arts and music in an almost spiritual way – music as natural magic.

For the first time in my life, I had something that was mine, and more importantly a mentor.

From there, I simply followed the thread of music. I don’t know what would have happened to me without it.

You spent time playing with your band Le Trouble and were signed by Republic, can you tell us a bit about your time in the band?

The accidental band!  Born outta jokes and improvisation.

To quote Charlie Watts “ 80% hanging out, 20% playing music”.

We were doomed from the start, but my gosh it was a rollicking good time.

All of us were songwriting “professionals” –our 9 to 5 was spent churning out sonics for film, TV, video games, you name it, we did it. Le Trouble was an antidote to the rest of my musical life up until that point – I had taken it and myself far too seriously. The rules of Le Trouble were simple, whatever happens in the room is what we keep. Thinking was the enemy and fun was the path.

The amnesia of how that first bunch of songs came to be is almost total, and listening to it now is like walking through a gallery of unrelated paintings, but the album buzzes with the kind of purity that can only ever be chanced upon.

We threw it on the fridge door of the internet and walked away. Yet somehow they found it (the big people from the biz at the big label in the Big Apple) and lifted it out of obscurity. The accidental record from the accidental band. They said nice things. They took us to dinner. We love being told we’re a success in waiting. We toured. People turned up. Once a buzz starts, everybody is attracted to the sound. And so we took the money. But only after we took turns signing our names on documents that were too long and too important for us to really understand.

were, were also the very things that kept us at the fringe of major success. However for me, what we accomplished was everything I had ever dreamed of. I am so very grateful for all of it.

What would you say were some of the highlights of your career so far?

Le Trouble was an antidote to the rest of my musical life up until that point- I had taken it and myself far too seriously.

The first time we played in Mexico, (Hellow Fest in Monterrey) and the audience started to sing along, word for word, I was dumbfounded – they knew the lyrics! It was the first tune we had written as a band. I felt I had parachuted into someone else's life. From a composing standpoint, working with Mos Def on a Louis Vuitton Campaign, using Mohammed Ali’s words as our creative fodder, was a real thrill. The journey from classic rap tune to spoken word piece really opened my eyes to the importance of, well, err “openness”. It takes a lot of courage to throw away your favourite idea for the sake of the right idea. And lastly, supporting the Flaming Lips felt like an arrival, or more accurately, an ending. Anyone who has seen their show, will know that it is more of a cathartic celebration than a musical performance – a perpetual motion machine of exploding colour, distorted lush orchestration, lasers, and animal costumes.

It was a bad marriage. We couldn’t see eye to eye. We lacked the kind of ambition that would turn them on and they didn’t know what to do with us. A good divorce is a splendid thing, and no hard feelings.

The very qualities that made us the band we

On our last show with them, we jumped in the suits and stood on stage as they played “Do You Realise?” I will never forget the confetti falling out onto a sea of crying faces – an ocean of joyful, almost childlike expressions, frozen in collective wonder.

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Tell us about your experience with Grow the Music and what role you have played.

To be offered the chance to use my musical skills and experience to find avenues of community and economic development hit me as hard as when I first discovered music. If you pay close enough attention (and the research to support this is flooding in) the process of storytelling through music or art,

the connectivity embedded in the collective making, weaves together so much of who and what we are. Look at all the occasions we hold dear. Imagine Christmas without the carols, a funeral, or a wedding without that perfect song to liberate the tears. Anzac Day without The Last Post. Where words fail, music speaks.

Michael Mooney

In support of Lizzy Rutten and what she is working so tirelessly to achieve, I put my shoulder to the research and production wheels.The thread through my experience has always been “What does that signify and why is it there?” The artistic life demands that you think from first principles. Oddly enough, that way of thinking can make you an incredibly effective researcher. I have been able to design and implement an array of programs using adaptive music technology and pedagogy to ensure maximum inclusion. Grow the Music gives people who come through the door the chance to discover something in themselves by being radically open to who they are and how they wish to express themselves. You have just taken over the role of Coordinator at The Bellingen Youth Hub. What are some of your plans for the Hub and where do you hope to see the Hub heading into the near future?

Grow the Music gives people who come through the door the chance to discover something in themselves by being radically open to who they are and how they wish to express themselves.

To land at the Hub has struck me as a position of privileged responsibility. Its centrality to the project of becoming for the youth of the town is very evident by how much people care about the place.

Listening to public discourse, educators, and mental health professionals, you can see that the epidemic of loneliness, atomisation, and despair, affecting young and old, is catastrophic. We need each other - we do not exist without each other.  We are hyper-social creatures. We should not abandon our young people

to YouTubers and influencers; becoming a better person is an aspirational project. Psychological studies find that the success of that project depends on how successfully we have "embodied the mentor". We can't just ask people to be better, we all need to be shown, to be able to imagine what's possible, we must get a glimpse of it.

I see no reason why the community can not be this mentor.

In short, The Hub is aiming to build upon what it already is - a place of belonging. We will find creative and innovative ways to meet our young people where they are at.

To follow "The Hub" metaphor to its conclusion, all spokes feed to and from it, keeping the wheel turning. We play a part in the wheel of the Bello community, which has many other "Hubs". Our focus is young people - their well-being, their flourishing - and that can't happen without total community involvement.

It truly does take a village.

By this logic, we want to stress that every dollar, skill or helping hand that comes through the door finds its way back to the youth of Bello. That means providing vital crisis services, social workers, the arts, education, the Two Way Street Program, the Boulder wall, and food - there for the good and bad times.

We are not just another set of rooms for hire, we are a place of belonging.

Will you be introducing your musical influence to The Hub moving forward?

Of course, I will. I can't help myself. Where can we find out more about the Bellingen Youth Hub?

To stay connected to all things Youth Hub, please check out our socials @belloyouthhub Our website - belloyouthhub.net.

And if you want to be involved, please reach out to me at coordinator@belloyouthhub. net

Thanks Michael

Our focus is young people, their wellbeing, their flourishing and that can't happen without total community involvement.

PFLAG

with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

WHAT IS PFLAG PLUS I hear you ask?

It’s an acronym for Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays but like all living language and meanings it has evolved so the PLUS is added to be more inclusive of everyone who identifies under what we say is the Rainbow!

The motto for PFLAG Plus Australia is “Parents in Pride” - it’s about proactively promoting acceptance and understanding of people who disclose their sex or gender diversity to family and loved ones.

I recently met with the local chapter of PFLAG PLUS here in Coffs Harbour and asked our core group of six about how they felt the group was going; is the size important, do people need this group and what would be a barrier for people to attend these face to face coffee meet ups? I wanted to see if we could, or should be doing something differently?

We all agreed that the core value of the group was support, and each of us felt that is what this gave us all. We all have various situations with our children or grandchildren but a casual “check in” by each person is important. We have 'great' news to share, to

'not so great', but the group support wraps around each of us and we all feel better for coming along.

I asked our closed FB group what they felt we could do better, as in the days we meet, times, or if people are time poor these days, or in this day and age if they are not needing that same support and maybe online is easier, and I had a mixed response.

WE HAVE GREAT NEWS TO SHARE TO NOT SO GREAT, BUT THE GROUP SUPPORT WRAPS AROUND EACH OF US AND WE ALL FEEL BETTER FOR COMING ALONG.

One reason that popped up was shyness, so I wanted to spell out exactly what we do.

We meet monthly on a Saturday for morning tea and this can be in Coffs or Bellingen. We causally introduce ourselves and we take turns to explain our situations. We ask questions, offer ideas and in the seven years Ive been doing this, I can honestly say that everyone has a “take out” from the meeting. It's casual in nature, it's respectful, and anything discussed is not taken outside the group for privacy reasons. It’s a safe space and over the years friendships have formed

and people who have children who grow up and have experienced life with a “rainbow” child have knowledge and experiences to share with newcomers. They are armed with information that isn’t always easy to find online and tips and real life experiences to share. This can be as simple as a Dr that is LGBTIQAP+ friendly or an event for their child to join etc. Its information sharing and supportive at the same time.

I've been writing this column for a long time now and I felt I needed to let you know the face to face component of our lovely friendly group and say, don’t be shy, give me a call and ask me anything, and if I don’t know the answer, someone in the group will!

PFLAGcoffscoast

(private, safe closed group)

0417 861 045

pflagcoffscoast@gmail.com

FABBA BONEY M

SThe Ultimate Tribute to the Ultimate Europop Groups

awtell RSL Club & Abstract Touring is thrilled to announce an upcoming tour in Australia featuring two extraordinary tribute acts, The Boney M Xperience and Fabba. Set to take place March 15, this one-of-a-kind collaboration promises an unforgettable experience for audiences, showcasing the greatest hits of these iconic Euro-pop groups sensational two-set performance. Prepare to immerse yourself in an evening of non-stop dancing and timeless music as Fabba delivers Abba’s beloved classics, including “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper,” “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” “Take a Chance on Me,” and many more. The captivating

beats won’t stop there; The Boney M Xperience will keep the energy high with chart-topping hits such as “Ma Baker,” “Rivers of Babylon,” “Daddy Cool,” “Brown Girl in the Ring,” and of course, the ever-catchy “Sunny.”

Get ready to transport yourself back to the disco era and relive the magic of these legendary groups. Grab your platforms, flares, and dancing shoes, because The Boney M Xperience and Fabba are here to make you dance the night away with their amazing rhythms. Don’t miss out on this incredible disco Xperience! Stay tuned for further updates and make sure to secure your tickets early for a night filled with nostalgia, fun, and the unforgettable music of The Boney M Xperience and Fabba.

HOPKINSON

RUSTY

You Am I will be playing at the Hoey Moey here in Co s Harbour on the 15th of March, so we had a chat with drummer Rusty Hopkinson to get the low down on the show!

You Am I have been a prominent figure in the Australian music scene for decades. Could you share a bit about the band's beginnings and how it’s evolved? What do you attribute to the band's enduring success?

It’s hard to choose, just getting to spend time in places like New York, London, Hamburg, and Los Angeles whilst meeting a parade of wonderful, interesting people is probably my favourite thing.

You’re going to be playing a show at the Hoey Moey here in Coffs on the 15th of March. What do you love most about playing live?

Before I was in the band, I was lucky enough to have seen them a bunch of times and they were clearly very special. When they asked me to join the group in 1993 just after they’d recorded Sound as Ever it was very easy to say yes! Since then, we’ve all grown together as a band and never stopped enjoying it, especially since Davey joined in 1999. I think the fact that our aspirations weren’t necessarily superstardom but to create a band that we liked being in has helped our longevity.

How do you approach songwriting as a band, can you share a bit about your creative process?

In Tim and Davey, we have two very accomplished songwriters and as a drummer it’s my job to come up with stuff that fits what they’d like to achieve. Sometimes what I’ll come up with is not what they expect and that’s usually a good thing!

My favourite thing about playing live is that You Am I is a rock and roll band and no two shows are the same. You go out there and there’s no timecode to lock in to, apart from our own. Songs can move, extend, shorten, and segue without any of us knowing beforehand. There are no algorithms involved so we can do what we like.

What can we expect from this show?

We’ve played with some fantastic people over the years,

down to

with the

si ing

breakfast

Memphis

Horns is something you don’t really expect to get to do in your lifetime.

I think if you like rock and roll music then you might like our band. We’re traditionalist in our approach to making a racket, but not because we’re luddites but rather because we are a rock and roll band and that’s the way to do it.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for You Am I? Are there any upcoming projects or ventures that you're particularly excited about?

What has influenced and inspired your music over the years?

Lots of different music and literature from a variety of sources and eras to start with but also working and touring with people we admire. We’ve played with some fantastic people over the years, sitting down to breakfast with the Memphis Horns is something you don’t really expect to get to do in your lifetime. You've toured extensively both nationally and internationally. Can you recount any memorable experiences or favourite moments from your time on the road?

I’d like to think there’ll be another record in the future, but we all have our own things we do so there’s no rush. We’re mainly happy to be still playing and still having some level of relevance. Seeing younger faces in the crowd who appreciate what we do along with long-time fans is nice too.

Where can people find out more or get tickets?

Youami.com.au is a good place to find out what we’re doing and to buy merch and tickets. You can also find us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook! Thanks Rusty, see you at the Hoey.

BUILD business your

AT PACIFIC BAY

Pacific Bay Resort has become a beacon for local and regional networking and business events and a home to a growing number of annual residential conferences and summits across various existing and emerging industries.

In 2023 this Coffs Coast resort property played host to more than 300 networking events, summits, conferences and meetings, building on its long history and reputation for delivering above expectation.

Pacific Bay Resort offers multi day delegate packages including on-site accommodation, a range of market leading modular conferencing spaces featuring state of the art audio visual, breakout rooms and trade show floor space. The property combines those facilities with its incredible location and outdoor spaces to provide options for clients that can be hard to match anywhere along the North Coast. In recent times, the team has broadened its reach within the meetings and events space. “Pacific Bay Resort has become a favourite venue for both national and regional conferences, also hosting a diverse range of clients including sports team training camps, corporate client training and development as well as awards dinners.  No two days are the same at the Bay.“ Says Sales Manager Karen Castleman.

Recently refreshed conferencing package options as well as an improved and enhanced food and beverage offering designed by Head Chef Mark Cockram has been a focal point for the property. A refined food philosophy based on celebrating ‘Fresh’ and ‘Local’ is leading the way in the delivery of an elevated delegate and guest experience.

Pacific Bay Resort offers an end-to-end event management service and has built a reputation for quality and consistency. The property can cater for boutique business lunches, awards and gala dinners for up to 500, or networking functions on the Bayside Bar and Grill decks or the Bayside Green. “We pride ourselves on making things as easy as possible for our clients. Planning a large conference can be a very stressful experience so our role is to support and guide our clients. It’s a very rewarding role that has led to some lovely relationships and repeat clients that return year after year” says Karen

The property was awarded GOLD at the North Coast Tourism Awards in 2023 for Business Events Venue of the Year. Business Development Manager Tanya Watts remarks, “Our Win in the

Business Event Venue of the Year category at the recent Destination North Coast Tourism Awards, has confirmed that Pacific Bay Resort is indeed the leading Business Event Venue in the Region. The Gold Award is testament to the staff and leadership team at the Resort, who have supported and encouraged a growth mindset in the Conference & Events Team. Streamlined processes, superior customer service, investment in our products and the willingness to deliver consistently exceptional events have been the driving factors behind our success!”

The tropical surrounds of the resort make the ideal location for a relaxed local networking event. Pacific Bay Resort is proud to host Focus Magazine’s Coffs Coast Women in Business feature launch in 2024.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Co s Coa Woman

OF THE YEAR AWARD

International Women’s Day is celebrated globally on 8th March. e IWD Woman of the Year Award recognises and honours the amazing contributions of women on the Co s Coast

This year the Woman of the Year Committee had even more nominations than in previous years, making the selection more difficult. Six inspiring women are finalists, the winner receiving $1,500 for her project with the runner-up receiving $1,000. The winner and runner up will be announced at the Coffs Coast IWD Breakfast, held on 8th March at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club.

Keynote Speaker, Melissa Harvie, will inspire you to ask, “What would you change now if you allowed yourself the choice?” Lily Isobella will be the Master of Ceremonies.

The six finalists are:

ANGELA MARTIN

From the moment Angela joined Lifeline, overseeing the region from Yamba to Nambucca Heads, she catalysed significant change. Her exceptional blend of passion, empathy, and work ethic has made a remarkable impact in the community. Angela's intellectual curiosity fuels her commitment to projects that truly matter, enhancing Lifeline's vital role in the region.

Under Angela's leadership, Lifeline North Coast achieved notable recognition, winning the Outstanding Community Organisation Award at the Coffs Coast Business Awards. This accolade reflects the team's hard work and Angela's inspiring guidance.

Angela's ability to juggle multiple roles is extraordinary. As a single parent, friend, confidante, and cheerleader, she brings an infectious energy to every challenge. Her hands-on approach and willingness to walk alongside her team through thick and thin have left an indelible mark on those she works with.

FALAK OTHMAN

with her volunteer work.  Her volunteer journey began at the tender age of 10. Fluent in six languages, she leverages her linguistic skills to volunteer as a translator for refugees, a refugee herself, bridging gaps within the community.

Fluent in six languages, she leverages her linguistic skills to volunteer as a translator for refugees, a refugee herself, bridging gaps within the community.

Falak's volunteer portfolio is impressive and diverse. Her early involvement with UNICEF from 2014 to 2017 saw her supporting traumatised individuals, supervising children, organising activities, and training volunteers, alongside managing administrative duties.  Her recent contributions during the 2023 NSW Election Day underscore her commitment to civic engagement.

At just 19 years of age, Falak is a testament to the power of youthful energy and dedication, balancing her studies in Nursing and Business

Falak's multifaceted volunteer work, combined with her academic pursuits, illustrates a remarkable blend of service, leadership, and global perspective, making her a shining example for her generation and beyond.

HEATHER DUNCAN

GLYNIS KIRBY

ANGELA MARTIN

KIRBY

Glynis, a dedicated full-time professional, is making waves in her community by initiating the Pink Patrol, an all-women patrol group aimed at empowerment and safety. Balancing her demanding job at Moonee Pharmacy, Glynis devotes her time to the Woolgoolga Surf Club as the Chief Training Officer. Her invaluable contributions include mentoring and providing training in surf lifesaving and first aid, empowering individuals across all age groups. Her efforts to establish the Pink Patrol showcase her dedication to creating inclusive, empowering spaces for women, highlighting her role as a pillar of community strength and solidarity. Glynis's unwavering commitment to the wellbeing and development of her community members, coupled with her ambition to empower through the Pink Patrol, truly sets her apart.

Glynis’ relentless drive and inspiring actions make her an exemplary figure, deserving of recognition and admiration for her contributions to community service and female empowerment.

HEATHER DUNCAN

In the heart of our community thrives a remarkable individual whose dedication to football, particularly for women and the younger generation, is unparalleled. Juggling a full-time job and nurturing four children, she’s been a driving force behind the establishment of a local community organisation that champions football.

TEGAN BAKER

Heather has been instrumental in securing sponsors and donations, vital in providing coaching and support to aspiring football players. Her effort in organising training sessions and clinics has created invaluable opportunities for skill development and growth. Heather frequently uses her own vehicle to transport participants to programs and football games.

Recognising the importance of mental health, she conducts early morning fitness programs specifically tailored for girls under 18. These sessions offer more than physical training; they are a haven of support, fostering mental wellbeing among young participants.

ROBYN DEVER

Upon moving to Coffs Harbour in 2011, Robyn, a dedicated nurse, quickly identified a gap in support for the LGBTQI+ community. As the founder of Rainbow Coffs Harbour, she’s become a pivotal figure, offering a safe, empowering haven for LGBTQI+ individuals, with a focus on youth and transgender members.

Robyn's dedication shines through in her organisation of diverse social events, from bowling and picnics to educational workshops and vibrant Christmas parties. Notably, her efforts led to the iconic Big Banana lighting up in red for World AIDS Day 2023, symbolising solidarity and awareness, drawing significant community and ally support.

Operating on a voluntary basis, Robyn's initiatives have seen the RCH group flourish to over 780 members. Through her actions, Robyn

ROBYN DEVER

FALAK OTHMAN

has significantly impacted the Coffs Harbour LGBTQI+ community, fostering an environment of unity, visibility, and celebration.

TEGAN BAKER

Senior Constable Tegan Baker, with over 11 years at NSW Police and a mother of two, has made significant strides in youth engagement in Coffs Harbour. Leading the charge, she's the force behind impactful initiatives like Woopi Warriors and Coffs Cannons, blending early morning fitness with positive engagement for youths at risk and those entangled in the justice system.

Her innovative Youth Active Rewards Program and the transformative Sticks to Stadium initiative provide life-changing experiences for Aboriginal youths, including visits to Penrith Panthers games, Sydney Zoo, and AFL matches. Tegan's leadership in the YARP Sydney Camp offers selected young individuals enriching experiences.

Beyond these programs, Tegan's dedication extends to supporting the Nyami Gawbarri program, coordinating community initiatives post incidents, and engaging in NAIDOC activities, all while managing her policing duties and youth justice diversion.

A big thank you to the sponsors, who help make this event possible: Enhance Aesthetics, Hoey Moey, Spare Chef, TPM The Physio Movement, One Agency Coffs Harbour, Focus Coffs Coast, Southern Cross University, Smart Choice Law, Hit 105.5 Coffs Coast and Listnr.

GLYNIS

LINDA

Nolan

ARTIST of the MONTH

Linda Nolan spent years working as a real estate agent here in Coffs, and took up painting as a hobby and relaxation method. After a few years experience and a move to the Wagga region Linda started teaching art and opened a gallery. She has an exhibition ‘Awakening Needs’ running this month in Coffs Harbour at the National Cartoon Gallery in collaboration with writer Karen Plumbe.

Hi Linda. Can you tell us a bit about your background as an artist?

Has art always been a part of your life?

I was always amazed how artists created their work as a kid and it intrigued me as a young adult. My aunt used to be an amazing artist in Wagga Wagga where I grew up, she started the flame within me I know. However I didn’t start visual arts until later years in Coffs Harbour as a form of sanity and relaxation really. Two of my teachers I will have to give a plug to, because without them my eyes would not have opened to actually seeing things differently. Trudy Smith and Maria Symonds are incredible allround artists and fabulous humans, thank you ladies for giving me this gift of art and a visual way of seeing the light and shade in all things. Living in Coffs, and working in real estate, there wasn’t much time to clear my headspace to be serious about art, it was always just my happy place to relax into, a hobby. I sold a few bits of art, but didn’t take myself seriously. When I moved back to the Wagga region to be with family in 2020, I started spreading my art wings into tutoring, workshops and eventually regular classes. My way of creating some income and sharing my passion. Really I was experimenting with my confidence. It takes loads of confidence and strength to

put your art out there in the public eye to be judged, but starting to teach was a gift I didn’t know I possessed. I knew the benefits of art, (love the benefits), and wanted to share that with everyone I came in contact with. I boldly began classes on a shoestring, in a tiny town called Ganmain, where I now live a happy rural lifestyle. I was gratefully welcomed into the community and to this day paint away with my students on a weekly basis! I didn’t go to Uni to learn art, as life in the big world started early for me as a mum, now grandmother, real estate agent in Coffs, and now full-time artist and teacher, with my own public gallery space…check it out on socials, @ Lush Creative Galleries. I’m very proud of this little Gallery!

I am going to say that I see things di erently to some…I see the light and shade in the clouds, the trees, people’s faces and so much more.

matter, mediums and materials. I do love abstract landscapes, or anything related to our planet. I was originally introduced to art with acrylics on canvas, and grew into this medium that I still love. I'd have to say I’m an all-rounder, this is beneficial when you're teaching. Style?? I can’t say, that’s not too important to me. I paint with emotion, that’s what’s important. I try to convey emotion on my canvas and I want my collectors or viewers to feel something in their heart or soul. Art to me is a way of expressing your deepest thoughts, releasing them, and capturing messages on canvas.

I am going to say that I see things differently to some…I see the light and shade in the clouds, the trees, people’s faces and so much more. You need to see the light and shade to understand how to paint.

How would you describe your art style and how has it evolved over the years?

I’ll say I’m eclectic. I enjoy most subject

What are your preferred mediums and techniques to use?

I prefer a mix of mediums, acrylic, acrylic ink, alcholic inks, watercolour and yummy mixed media. I haven't delved into oil or pastels as yet, but I will.

Continued over...

LINDA Nolan

Can you talk us through your creative process?

I love to play or explore before I begin! I play music to suit my mood or what I’m trying to produce. I research, take photos outdoors and then simply relax into my creative head space. Music of all kinds grabs me; I love how I feel listening to music. If it’s loud and grungy, I love splashing the paint around, if it’s gentle sounds, I lose myself in the wash of watercolours. I love the magic that happens with water.

Where do you draw a lot of your inspiration from?

Nature most times, but emotion is what drives my art. I’ve painted poetry, now that’s incredible! Travel has inspired me, the harvesting action on the farms, watching sheep being born, walking in the paddocks and resting my mind, things seem to pop in when I’m in those spaces. Meditation is another and family another. Life is my inspiration; emotion is my vehicle.

Are there any particular themes or influences that feature in your work?

Not particularly, my influences are very broad. Nature would be the best answer here, I am driven by what I see in nature.

You currently have your work exhibited at the Bunker Cartoon Gallery here in Coffs, can you tell us about the exhibition and how it came about?

I love how I feel listening to music. If it’s loud and grungy, I love splashing the paint around, if it’s gentle sounds, I lose myself in the wash of watercolours

My world changed when I met Karen Plumbe. This exhibition is a culmination of a joint project called Awakening Needs. We are extremely proud of this project. I joined my friend Karen Plumbe, who is Connection Works Australia, at an Ongo every day nonviolence group, to explore and learn fresh communication

skills. This is where the backbone of this exhibition has derived. From there Karen had an inspiration idea and asked me to illustrate for her. There are 40 original works on display, all in watercolour, all illustrating a human need using nature as my inspiration. I hope you enjoy them. There is now a box set of Awakening Needs inspirational cards to call upon as you need them in your day to day. I have teachers who use them in class to calm the kids, or help them process their emotions. I have therapists using them also. I have a Mum who pulls a card for her children each day, and that’s the

focus for them throughout the day. It seems the illustration helps explain what the need means. I had the first exhibition in my region in October last year. It was such a success we wanted to bring it to Coffs, for all our people to see. Luckily, Carolyn at the Bunker saw its value and was delighted to exhibit it for us. The exhibition begins on 23rd March, with the Opening Night on the 22nd, and runs for 9 weeks at the National Cartoon Gallery, Coffs Harbour. There will also be an Artist and Writer’s Talk and a Watercolour Workshop on Sunday the 24th. The public are welcome to come along, grab your ticket through the gallery www. trybooking.com/cosft. We have prints of my work available, and box sets of cards for people to consider.

ARTIST of the MONTH

I’d love to capture my audience and collectors before I die! Laughing out loud here! Seriously, I love to inspire people, I have found a skill I didn’t know I had.

human needs like love, presence, respect and structure. But I have to say, it’s pretty darn exciting! I left Coffs as a real estate agent 3 years ago and I’ve come back as an artist. A changed woman as they say, it feels incredible in my shoes.

Do you have any goals or aspirations for yourself as an artist moving forward into the future?

That would be cool.

I’ve been fortunate to have been selected as one of 75 creative women throughout NSW to be mentored in our creative businesses mid last year. This is a long 17 months being facilitated by Regional Arts of NSW. I’m privileged and excited to say there will be a Showcase of all our works in Orange NSW in November. This Showcase has everything from visual arts, poetry, music, movie making and more. Follow @lushcreativegalleries on Instagram or Facebook, I certainly will have more details on this soon.

What does it mean to you to have this show running in Coffs Harbour?

An absolute privilege to share my art passion, but in particular, this amazing project. It has been a journey of discovery about myself and my own human needs. I have had to explore

I’d love to capture my audience and collectors before I die! Laughing out loud here! Seriously, I love to inspire people, I have found a skill I didn’t know I had. Bringing out the best in everyone, those that can paint and those that don’t.

I want to teach to a bigger audience. If you feel inspired by what you see at the exhibition, you may want to join us in the online ‘Light and Shade’ program we are creating. I can see myself travelling and delivering my workshops.

Sharing Awakening Needs all over the world is another goal to aspire to.

Where can people see your work or get in touch?

At my Gallery in Ganmain, 109 Ford Street, Ganmain. At @lushcreativegalleries on Instagram or Facebook and of course, for the next 9 weeks At Bunker Gallery from 23rd March to 19th May.

We sat down with Lindsay Russell to talk about the creation of Backroom, The home of live music events bringing emerging talents to established artists to the stage, Lindsay's dedication to cultivating a diverse musical landscape at Backroom has made it a hub for unforgettable nights and magnetic energy.

BACKROOM THE

LINDSEY RUSSELL

Hey Lindsay, tell us where the idea of creating Backroom came from?

BACKROOM is The Coffs Hotel’s new dedicated live music venue, which you may recognise as the old Winxx nightclub - but with a bit of a facelift. The space is perfect for live music lovers.

There’s only a stage, a can bar, and a dance floor. There are no distractions so you can really immerse yourself in the music. Of course if you’re looking for a classic pub feed, you can hop out into the beer garden or bistro at the sister venue The Coffs Hotel. But you won’t see people dining while watching the stage - which is something I really like about the space.

What made you want to get involved with the live music venue and how has the process been like for you personally?

Broken Open Productions has been fighting for more original live music venues in the region. We were looking for someone to commit to live music, and The Coffs Hotel has been extremely supportive with the opening of BACKROOM. Our job is to book talented bands, give the bands an amazing experience,

and make sure that the gig-goers have a good time.

It’s like a dream come true to be able to create unique experiences that you simply can’t experience anywhere else in the region. When you step inside the venue, you feel like you’ve been transported to a grungey live music dive bar in the city. It’s a great feeling.

What is Backroom all about?

Good music and good vibes. It’s as simple as that! We are bringing in emerging artists and pairing them with regional talent as support acts. All of the Broken Open Sessions at BACKROOM are ticketed since it’s an intimate venue format.

so being part of the audience can feel pretty special.

Can you share any memorable or unique events that have taken place at Backroom, and what makes them stand out?

Where do I begin? Honestly every gig is insanely fun. My favourite part is just seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces when they’re breakin’ it down on the dance floor.

Good music and good vibes. It’s as simple as that! We are bringing in emerging artists and pairing the with regional talent as support acts.

Oh, and I love to see everyone at the end of the night. There’s no better feeling than leaving an epic gig, all hot and sweaty from the dance floor, wishing it had never ended.

Even if people don’t recognise the band names on the bill, we encourage music lovers to come discover their next favourite band. The experience people get is worth every cent. It’s an underground, grassroots movement,

What are some of the bands that have taken the stage so far that have stood out to you and why?

All of the bands we have had pass through have been so talented! The Beefs has been on my bucket list for live music for a while

now, and they’re pretty hard to catch live since the band lives all over Australia. We had people flying in from Melbourne and driving down from Byron Bay for that gig since they have such a cult following. That was a big achievement as a new venue.

What are the types of genres and bands that you look for to play at Backroom?

We are community-driven, so if someone requests a band or genre, we will work hard to make it happen. We are mixing up genres with punk, surf, metal, indie, and expanding into more such as hip hop in the near future. I also have my eyes on a funk night. The stage is shared by not only musicians.

There are also some comedy nightswhere did that idea come about and how is it going so far?

Ben Stevenson from Coffs Comedy hosts comedy nights every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month at BACKROOM. It’s so good to have something different to do on a Friday night in the Coffs City Centre area. I highly recommend it, it’s a great way to kick off your Friday night with some laughs.

What can patrons expect when walking through the doors of the Backroom?

When you walk through the beer garden of The Coffs Hotel to get to the BACKROOM door, you don’t really know what to expect. Once you enter through the venue door, you’re surrounded by people that are all there for one thing - live music. It’s a dark room, so it’s really fun to let loose on the dance floor as you feel the whole world melt away.

Every band has said that this venue is special, so I have a feeling it will soon become one of those iconic famous stops that touring bands have to stop at!

The energy in the venue is just so good, it’s contagious. People have to experience it.

Where would you like to see Backroom headed in the coming years?

Every single band has said that this venue is something special, so I have a feeling it will soon become one of those iconic famous stops that touring bands have to stop at since it’s such a good time. Even though it’s a smaller space, I think we’ll be booking prominent artists for intimate shows pretty soon. So if you’re reading this, come out and support the local live music scene!

To see what Broken Open Productions has up next, visit brokenopen.com.au

Sally Taylor

Hey Sally, what inspired the creation of Taylor Made Equine Connections, and how did the journey begin?

It has taken a long time, and a little bit of a gentle push from my family telling me to “go out on my own '' and create a place where we can help assist people better understand, connect with and enjoy horses in all their glory. There were a lot of people reaching out to me in need for custom one-on-one and small group lessons. After I completed my Equine Assisted Learning Practitioner Training, I too had the confidence to go ahead and build Taylor Made Equine Connections. It's been a wonderful

experience, full of learning and personal growth! I can not wait to see what the future holds for us.

How long have you personally been working with horses and what made you want to be in this field?

I have had a passion for horses since my first pony ride at 4 years of age. He was a pony called ‘Prince’ and we were at the Nana Glen Showground, I have been horse mad ever since!

Once I finished high school here in Coffs Harbour many moons ago, I headed off to Agricultural College in the Hunter Valley where I studied Cert 3 in Horse Husbandry and met my very understanding husband to be! Together,

we moved out to ‘Jemalong Station’ in Central Western NSW, where we worked on a large cattle station. Working in the equine section of the operation taught me a lot about all that is involved in a large horse breeding and training facility, as well as a bit of good old fashioned station life and work ethics.

I have had a few ‘horsey’ related jobs in between as well as studying vet nursing in and around Central West NSW and in particular Dubbo before we moved back to the beautiful Coffs Coast with a young family. Soon after our life became more blessed when I landed my absolute dream job, working with horses and children in a local private school, where I have

Sally Taylor has spent her life working with horses and she wants to share the benefits of spending time with horses and learning how to connect with them with the rest of the community.

been fortunate enough to continue to learn and develop my equine skills, horsemanship and experiences for the past 13 odd years! I am a firm believer in continuous learning, and horses are certainly wonderful teachers! As are my many coaches and clinicians!

for yesterday or tomorrow.

I find clients who are having difficulties with their horses, are often so focused on a certain goal that they are working towards but not actually taking notice of the small signs their horse is trying to communicate to them, once we establish these discrete cues, they begin to grow and flourish together!! This is my favorite part!

You teach others connection and communication with their horses. What is the process like and how long does it take to form a bond?

The process takes as long as it takes! Horses are the greatest of teachers and are like mirrors to the soul.

Some people and horses just ‘click’ like people and people can do, other times it takes time and patience for the bond to form, but when it does, it's like a lightbulb flicks on and it is a beautiful process to be a part of! Horses are incredible at communicating in the most discreet ways. We as humans can learn alot from horses; how to slow down and start to take notice of the subtle changes in life, our surrounding environment, and learn to be present.

Horses are incredible at communicating in the most discreet ways. We as humans can learn alot from horses; how to slow down and start to take notice of the subtle changes in life, our surrounding environment, and learn to be present.

What are some of the misconceptions about horses and how we interact with them?

We never have to tell our horse that we are sad, happy, confident, angry or relaxed - they already know long before we do! I admire horses for their ability to be in the moment, not concerned

What are some of the other training exercises you do with horses and owners?

We also run multiple day camps and clinics throughout the year, our most popular are the Youth Horsemanship Camps that are run during school holidays. The kids have a great time learning responsibilities and independence by looking after and feeding their ponies without Mum or Dad. They also learn the fundamentals of horsemanship, they build confidence together as a child and horse overcoming obstacles and tasks. We have so much fun riding, bonding and learning with our horses in one short weekend. Plus plenty of new life long friendships are created by meeting with like minded kids from all over the Coffs Coast.

We also host Ladies Horsemanship and Confidence Building camps and clinics - much similar to our Youth Camps, we work on all facets of horsemanship, liberty, and also regaining confidence by connecting with our horses.

What are some of the reasons people come to you, what are they usually looking to achieve?

I create a safe and welcoming environment for my clients, where they can slowly build confidence at their own pace. It is not just riding here, we play activities on the ground with horses that are horsemanship based, we have obstacles and activities that involve communication skills between horse and human. This can help people relate to real life scenarios, as horses are as honest as it gets! What can we learn from horses?

There is so much to learn from horses in so many ways! Horses are incredibly honest and grounding, they are reflections of our souls. This can be confronting at first, but it can also allow growth in ourselves that we never knew we needed.

Can you share some success stories or notable achievements of clients who have benefited from Taylor Made Equine Connections?

Each and every one of my clients are a success in my eyes. I am not out to produce Olympic riders, I am here to help build confidence and personal growth on my clients’ own individual journeys. This varies substantially from their first time near a horse to clients who compete with their own horses but have had an issue on their journey and they are looking for a little extra help.

Do you need your own horse?

Not at all - we have a lovely small team of horses here that are not big and intimidating. Our horses are made up of Australian stock horses and Guy Fawkes Heritage Horses (Brumbies) who are amazing!

Where can we find out more about Taylor Made Equine Connections?

You can find out more and keep up to date with what's happening or what we have planned on our Facebook and Instagram pages by searching “Taylor Made Equine Connections”.

Thanks Sally.

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The visibility of your business, your brand and you are the centrepiece of any good local advertising campaign. When you advertise in FOCUS, not only will you be seen in 10,000 gloss copies every month in and around town, but we offer free graphic design and photography services - when you look your best, so do we!

Daisy Moroney is a Cosmetic Ta oo Artist who has recently opened her own boutique studio in the Bellingen Shire. With two decades of experience in the hair and beauty industry, Daisy’s passion for making clients feel confident shines through as she discusses her enjoyment of building relationships and striving for perfection in her work.

Daisy oroney

Hi Daisy. Tell us a bit about your background and how you got started as a cosmetic tattoo artist?

I started in the beauty industry almost 20 years ago, firstly as a hairdresser, then I added makeup artistry to my skill set a few years later. I have worked in salons and as a freelance artist over that time. I’ve done it all, from general hairdressing to specialised services like hair extensions, to weddings, events, runway and photography. I always like to continue learning and evolving, and decided a few years ago to train in cosmetic tattoo and haven’t looked back! It seemed like a natural progression, where I could continue to utilise my skills in makeup and colour theory, but add a whole other dimension to what I already knew. How does cosmetic tattoo differ from body art tattoo?

Cosmetic tattoo generally refers to permanent makeup (PMU) like brows, lip blush and eyeliner, and paramedical tattoo; things like scar camouflage and areola tattoos. For most of these services you’re not working as deep in the skin, and we tend to use specialised pigments and equipment designed for cosmetic work. Some cosmetic tattoo services are considered semi permanent depending on the pigments and techniques used.

rewarding. I don’t take lightly the trust people are placing in me by letting me tattoo their face! I always strive to meet or exceed their expectations. I book quite long appointments because I never want my clients (or myself!) to feel rushed, I like to take my time, listen to their needs, and create work that I’m excited about showing them! I really enjoy building relationships with people, I’m a pretty social person so I feel lucky that I get to hang out with wonderful people each day! I’m also a bit of a perfectionist so focusing on a small but detailed tattoo gives me a great sense of satisfaction. You’ve recently opened your new studio, what was the process like of creating this purpose built space?

It’s been a long time in the making, like most building and design projects it’s had lots of ups and downs but the outcome has been so worth it! I wanted a space that was welcoming and calming but that still had plenty of personality. The feedback from clients so far has been great. Having the studio on my property a few minutes from Bellingen town means it’s very accessible and you have complete privacy when leaving your appointment, as well as no trouble finding a parking spot!

Seeing their reactions when I reveal my work to them is very rewarding. I don’t take lightly the trust people are placing in me by letting me tattoo their face!

I always strive to meet or exceed their expectations.

Cosmetic tattoo is growing in popularity and becoming more common. What are some common reasons for people to get cosmetic tattoos, and how has the industry evolved over the years? Often clients do it for cosmetic reasons. They might want to enhance their lips or restore the colour and shape, give their brows more definition or fill in areas that are a bit sparse or over-plucked. Sometimes clients have scars in these areas, and sometimes I get clients who have alopecia or other medical conditions that have meant they’ve lost their eyebrow hair. For those that fill in their brows or wear lip colour everyday to feel themselves, to be able to wake up and go is an amazing feeling and such a timesaver!

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I know it’s a bit cliche, but I really do get great enjoyment out of making my clients feel good about themselves! Seeing their reactions when I reveal my work to them is very

What are some of your plans and aspirations for the future?

I truly love my work and I plan to continue expanding my list of cosmetic tattoo services! Currently I offer brows (both Nano Hair Stroke and Shading techniques) and lip blush, with plans in the works to add eyeliner and some paramedical tattoo services to the list as well! I like to take the time to focus on each service for a while before adding to my repertoire, but I will always continue to invest in training and education as I feel it’s incredibly important in this industry. I would love to see my business grow and to continue to provide top quality services to this region. We shouldn’t have to travel to the city to get these more specialised services!

Where can people find out more or get in touch?

You can check out my website daisymoroney.com, and follow me on instagram @daisymoroney.cosmeticink or facebook @Daisy Moroney - Brows. Makeup. Hair. Or if you would like to have a chat or book a consultation you can call or text me on 0421 656 035.

Thanks Daisy.

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NEUE SKIN

CLINIC

LIFELINE NORTH COAST

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES

SAVING LIVES

Lifeline North Coast has been an important service within our community for over 48 years, leading the way in Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention.

Our dedicated local volunteers have answered thousands of calls for help seekers via our 13 11 14 Crisis Support Phone Line. Additionally, our team has trained up hundreds of Crisis Support Volunteers and community members in suicide prevention and mental health awareness. This year marks a significant milestone for Lifeline North Coast, as it proudly boasts an all-female leadership team, comprising Angela Martin as General Manager, Ashleigh Kady as the Senior Operations Manager, Jenna McBeath as the Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention Manager, and Simone Hickey as the Gamble Aware Program Manager. Lifeline North Coast is committed to empowering women in leadership roles and is dedicated to supporting the health and wellbeing of the North Coast community. This year the team are on a mission to engage more with our community through events, training, and volunteering opportunities, come join one of the fastest-growing volunteer organisations in our region, with a variety of options in crisis support, retail, warehouse and distribution, fundraising and community events. Our strategic vision is centred around suicide prevention by providing the tools , resources, awareness, and support needed.

As General Manager, Angela believes Lifelines team and volunteers play a crucial

role in the social and cultural well-being of our communities. “The Coffs Coast and surrounding towns are home to close knit communities where everyone knows everyone, so when there is a death by suicide, it creates a ripple effect of grief not only for the immediate families, but it is felt immensely by people in the community. Lifeline North Coast’s region spans Yamba to Nambucca Heads, so it’s a large region for a small team as ours to support, but its through the collaboration of partnerships with other services and the dedication of our team and volunteers who are making a difference. Over the coming months we will start sharing more of the positive impact that our work is having both in suicide prevention, awareness and supporting families who are bereaved by the loss of loved ones.

in need have access to the support and resources they require. Jenna is committed to raising awareness about mental health issues and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, empowering individuals to seek help when they need it most.

It’s important to note that while Lifeline North Coast is primarily a crisis support line, we understand that a crisis can look di erent for everyone, and individuals do not need to be suicidal to reach out for support.

Jenna McBeath, the Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention Manager, provides support to individuals in crisis. Jenna oversees Lifeline North Coast's 13 11 14 Crisis Line and Suicide Bereavement Groups, ensuring that individuals

“As the Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention Manager, Jenna’s responsibility is to ensure that smooth operation of the 13 11 14 phone line and to oversee the implementation of our suicide prevention plan. This includes managing our suicide bereavement group, organising training sessions, and engaging with the community on suicide prevention initiatives. Unfortunately, Coffs Harbour and its surrounding areas have been experiencing a higher rate of suicide compared to the national average, particularly among men aged 25-45. To address this, Lifeline North Coast collaborates with other local organisations through the Coffs Harbour Action Response group to provide a coordinated response to suicide loss and to implement effective suicide prevention strategies. Our suicide bereavement

Hickey and her team, with a region that spans Tweed Heads in the North to Laurieton in the South of the state is dedicated to raising awareness about the potential harms of gambling and promoting responsible gambling practices. Simone and her team are focused on creating a positive impact and work closely with the Lifeline North Coast team so we can continue to provide vital services to those in need.

All volunteers get a sta discount of 50%, there is lots of room to learn new things, and a end training courses that Lifeline runs, and you’re part of a community that is there to help each other and be there for those in need.

group has been wellreceived and provides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences. Additionally, we are working on bringing valuable suicide prevention training to the region. It's important to note that while Lifeline North Coast is primarily a crisis support line, we understand that a crisis can look different for everyone, and individuals do not need to be suicidal to reach out for support. We welcome anyone to call 13 11 14 at any time for assistance or simply for a chat or check-in. As with any small not-for-profit organisation, additional funding would greatly benefit us by allowing us to expand our current offerings across the region.” Jenna said.

Simone Hickey, the Gamble Aware Program Manager, is passionate about promoting responsible gambling practices and raising awareness about the potential harms of gambling. She works closely with community organisations and stakeholders to develop and implement initiatives that promote responsible gambling and support individuals affected by problem gambling. Simone is committed to creating a safer and healthier community, free from the negative impacts of problem gambling.

Lifeline North Coast is committed to providing support and assistance to individuals and families affected by problem gambling. As the Gamble Aware Program Manager, Simone

Ashleigh Kady, the Senior Operations Manager, is responsible for overseeing the retail and warehouse operations. Ash together with her team ensures that the retail shops and warehouse run smoothly. Everyone in the retail department works tirelessly to sort the donations and provide quality, affordable and sustainable products to our local communities, with all proceeds from sales going directly back into the Lifeline Crisis Operations so we can continue to provide vital services to the community and save lives.

Our organisation relies heavily on volunteers to support its operations. Ash explains “Volunteers are the backbone of everything we do! Without the support of volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to run our charity shops, our crisis support line, or our Suicide Bereavement Groups. The retail volunteers, especially, are the ones that help us keep the crisis line and support groups running. Proceeds from our local charity shops fund the 13 11 14 Crisis Line and Suicide Bereavement Groups and allow us to be there for the community.”

We are always on the look out for people to join our team. All our shops need help and your never too young or too old to volunteer! Our warehouse, though, REALLY needs volunteers to assist with sorting donations–people who are brand-savvy, have an eye for antiques and precious gems, or are into the sustainable and environmentally friendly side of upcycling and recycling.

The warehouse is the center of our retail operations. All donations from the shops are

taken to the warehouse where our volunteers sort, pack, and distribute back to the shops.

Sorting takes so much time and patience!

Every donation usually comes to us in bags or boxes; the volunteers diligently open every bag, inspect every piece of donation to make sure they are in good shape, before it's even placed into the sorting bins. We make sure that toys aren’t broken, shoes are wearable, electronics actually work, and clothes are not stained, ripped, or mouldy. Then they are sorted and packed into boxes for the shops.

So it’s a big process, and we need more people to help us!

There are perks too. All volunteers get a staff discount of 50%, there is lots of room to learn new things, and attend training courses that Lifeline runs, and you're part of a community that is there to help each other and be there for those in need.

If you're interested in finding out more or to apply, please visit https://lifelinenorthcoast.org. au/volunteer-retail/ or pop into one of the shops for a chat with the team!

Together, the team and volunteers at Lifeline North Coast and GambleAware are committed to support the health and well-being of our community. As Lifeline North Coast enters a new era of strength, with a healthy culture of putting people first and focusing on care and connection, the future looks brighter than ever before.

At Lifeline North Coast, we encourage any person who is experiencing emotional distress, contemplating suicide, or caring for someone in crisis to call 13 11 14. The phone line is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, and is free to anyone who calls. Our Crisis Support line is operated by our volunteer crisis supporters who will listen without judgment, they will work through what is troubling you and can identify other forms of help.

Want to know more about the information shared in this article and keep up to date with Lifeline North Coast, please subscribe to our mailing list.

Contact us:

Lifeline North Coast

2/115 West High Street, Coffs Harbour Phone 02 6651 4093

Website: https://lifelinenorthcoast.org.au/

Women’s

He Co s Harbour Women’s Health Centre is operated by Health Voyage, a local nongovernment, not-for-profit based on Gumbaynggirr Country in Co s Harbour. We spoke to Julie Chakos the Centre Manager, to find out more….

Harbour Women’s Health Centre (CHWHC)...

The Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre was first established in 1986 providing support for women, by women, and about all things to do with women’s health and wellbeing. We are 1 of 21 Women’s Health Centres located throughout NSW. The Centre is funded through Mid North Coast Local Health District (LHD) and we work collaboratively with the LHD on projects and health care services. We are an accredited health service operated by women for women.

CHWHC offers low-cost and affordable medical and allied health care as well as health and well-being programs, groups and education to improve women’s health. Women and girls (and those who identify as female) are respected and provided a safe space, and they experience full participation in their health journey. Our care is evidence based and trauma informed and we focus on inclusive care that is person centred. We proudly support LGBTQIA+ females and offer interpreter services for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse women. Our female Doctors are trained in Women’s Health. We recommend patients who consult

our Doctors also have their own GP for other medical/general health conditions as these services are not provided at our Centre. What health care professionals make up your team?

The CHWHC boasts a highly skilled and compassionate medical and allied health team dedicated to providing exceptional care. Our team of health care professionals, collaborate seamlessly to address women’s diverse health needs and screening. With expertise and understanding, we prioritise the well-being and empowerment of all our patients.

We currently have 10 General Practitioners (Drs Laura, Jo, Kristen, Helena, Alison, Jirina, Milli, Brigid, Micah & Kathy, each working different days), an Accredited Practising Dietitian, Becky (2 days per week), an Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain (EPP) physio Mel (one day monthly), 2 Women’s Health (WH) Nurses Berry & Tish (3 days per week) and Lisa who covers both EPP WH Nurse and Program

Coordinator and Sexual Health Educator roles (3 days per week).

Tell us about your other team members?

We have a wonderful reception team; Cherie our Clinic Co-ordinator, Kym, Robyn Mel and Victoria who greet all our patients with a smile and helpful can-do attitude.

Our health promotions officer, Jen, looks after our groups and class bookings, as well as organising education events and keeping our website and socials up to date.

CHWHC o ers low-cost and a ordable medical and allied health care and well as health and well-being programs, groups and education to improve women’s health.

Of course, we cannot forget our wonderful Health Voyage CEO, Taz, who steers the ship and ensures we stay on course. What services do you offer?

Services provided to women (and those identifying as female) from 16 onwards (younger on application) include but are not limited to:

Sexual and reproductive health – cervical screening (CST), breast checks, contraception (IUD and Mirena), safe sex, sexually transmitted

infections, all options pregnancy counselling and referrals, family planning, menstruation, menopause, and vulva disorders.

Endometriosis and pelvic pain services provided by GP, Nurse, Physio and educational workshops and events.

Dietitian consultations with Accredited Practising Dietitian.

Mental and emotional health – post-natal, loss of self-identity, concern with partner relationships and anxiety.

Health promotion –workshops, yoga, dancefit, chaired yoga classes for young and old. Bookings can be made online, check out the website or socials pages listed below.

Education - for all ages, sexual and reproductive health and any other women’s health related issues.

Domestic Violence Support

We aim to provide resources and educational initiatives; provide a compassionate approach and we will listen attentively to individual needs.

- Empowerment and connection of women to appropriate partner services.

Nurse Outreach clinics to communities that are geographically isolated, 5-6 per year and weekly outreach at Pete’s Place Coffs Harbour.

Why choose Coffs Harbour Women’s Centre?

Choose us for a personalised and supportive healthcare experience provided by women. You can embrace exceptional care at our Centre, where a skilled and supportive team of healthcare professionals are dedicated to your well-being. You will always be respected and cared for by our team.

We prioritise you – listening attentively, acting with compassion, and fostering a supportive and safe environment.

Tell us about the new EPP (Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain) clinic that has opened and how beneficial this will be for our area.

Our Centre has received Commonwealth funding through Healthy North Coast (our local PHN) to set up and provide services for Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain (EPP) over the next three years. We are one of 22 clinics funded Australia wide and marking a

transformative milestone for our region.

The EPP clinic commenced late 2023 and we are now taking new patients and referrals to this service. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals are committed to supporting patients on their journey to improved EPP management.

We aim to provide resources and educational initiatives; provide a compassionate approach and we will listen attentively to individual needs. As advocates for inclusive holistic well-being, we have adopted a multi-disciplinary approach. Our treatment plans will be unique to each patient being cared for, including WH Nurse appointments to start you on your journey and follow up your progress on the way, GP consultation for planning and referrals, Dietitian and Physiotherapy may also be included along with Psychologist and Pain workshops/ education.

Whilst we prefer a referral from the patient’s usual treating GP, we also welcome selfreferrals, provided they include a past medical history (gynaecology & obstetrics), current and past medicines, any results of investigations relating to EPP such as ultrasounds, blood tests.

Tell us about the EPP Education Day in March that you are holding and how can people book in?

MARCH IS ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESS

MONTH and we are holding an educational

workshop at Coffs Harbour Racing Club on 16th March from 9am to 3.30pm featuring expert presenters, including local Gynaecologist

- Dr Aaron Budden, Psychologist – Beulah Joseph, Physiotherapist – Sarah Brown and more!

$20 registration fee (with $5 being donated to Endometriosis Australia) covers morning tea and lunch. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity for knowledge and empowerment – numbers are limited! (If the cost is a barrier to you please contact us for support).

To register please email us for further information whc@healthvoyage.org.au. (Partners are welcome to attend).

CHWHC Contact Details…. Our centre is located at 45-53 Little Street Coffs Harbour.

From 1st March 2024 our clinic will be open on Fridays, giving our patients access to services 5 days per week.

To call to make an appointment or to enquire about our services please phone

02 6652 8111 (no bookings by email). whc@healthvoyage.org.au

Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre ch_womens_health_centre healthvoyage.com.au

Health Voyage

healthvoyage_au

Health Voyage Ltd

Are you an Overthinker?

Do you go over and over things in your mind, worries and conversations that did not go as expected, the ‘I should have said this’? We often ruminate on the issue instead of problem-solving to produce logical steps to overcome the problem. The negativity replays repeatedly in our heads, over and over. It is a vicious cycle of negative thoughts that build, often leading to catastrophising, where you imagine the worst-case scenario and over estimate the likelihood of that happening. Others telling you to stop worrying about it does not help. This is something that our mind and body do automatically, we tell ourselves the story with which we are most familiar. Experiencing setbacks or failures is all part of the life journey. When we overthink, we can overgeneralise which is the thought that one single event is an invariable rule, for example, failure to accomplish one task will predict an endless pattern of defeat in all tasks. This is where procrastination and rumination take over.

Overthinking causes more stress and anxiety as it focuses on the negative, dwelling on the past and worrying about the future. We also may feel agitated, restless, a feeling of unsettledness, we may have difficulty concentrating and experience different sleep patterns and other behaviours that may not be healthy.

So how do we stop overthinking?

Designate a worry time. Choose a time of day when you can sit quietly and spend 10-20 minutes writing down all your worries. When you have completed the list, go through it again with a highlighter and highlight the worries that you can problem-solve, things you have control over. The next step is to spend time brainstorming solutions. For things you have no control over notice those thoughts and then let them go. The same worries may come back, and you may need to repeat the process of noticing and letting go as it takes time to change habits and develop better ways to have control over your worries.

Rethink your ‘what-ifs’. Now daydreaming a what-if scenario is normal, but it becomes problematic when we focus only on the worst case scenario. When you have a what-if worry, try and change it to an ‘if then, I will do or say’ statement. For example, what if I get sick, then I will seek medical help or I will say to my children they need to help me because I am unwell. Focus on having a concrete plan.

Challenge your negative thoughts. You may think that you will never reach your fitness goals, or that your partner’s family does not like you. Instead of letting those negative thoughts take over, challenge them, and reframe them into positive and empowering thoughts. Ask yourself is this thought helpful, what evidence do I have to say this thought is true, is there an alternative possibility?

with JULIE THOMAS

The idea is to look from a more balanced perspective.

Find things you like to do, a healthy distraction. Activities such as meditation, reading, taking a bath, and walking in nature can help to alleviate stress levels. Be initiative taking, even on hard days and build these activities into your daily routine. Activities you enjoy can reduce stress and anxiety and make you less likely to overthink.

Practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and forgive yourself. When we calm and soothe our internal threat system it enables us to think clearly and be able to effectively solve problem situations.

If you find yourself so stressed and struggling to find any strategy to assist you it can be helpful to share your thoughts with someone you trust. By keeping things bottled up inside you it can be detrimental to your physical and mental health. If you are unable to control your worry and it starts to impact your ability to function in everyday life, it may be time to seek professional help to assist you in developing strategies to cope with overthinking. Until next time, be kind and gentle with yourself.

Julie Thomas

MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach)

Member of the Australian Counselling Association

Member of WPATH, AUSPATH

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Care OptionsUnderstanding

As we get older, the basics of living can become trickier. While the prospect of engaging with aged care services can feel daunting, accessing the right support at the right time is the best way to improve wellbeing and stay safe.

Aged care encompasses a broad spectrum of services, ranging from cleaning and help with accessing appointments, assistive equipment and home modifications, right through to specialist accommodation.

Finding the right services, tailored to your circumstances, can help you maintain your quality of life and stay connected with your community.

Government-funded home care options: The Australian Government subsidises in-home aged care under two streams – the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) and Home Care Packages (HCP).

What is the Commonwealth Home Support Program? The Commonwealth Home Support

Programme (CHSP) is described as helping ‘older Australians access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home’.

What is a Home Care Package or an HCP? Home Care Packages are for people who need more intensive support, or a comprehensive range of services, to remain safely at home. The packages are flexible to meet emerging needs and are designed to respond to identified care requirements as well as your health and wellbeing goals.

There are four levels of Home Care Packages with provision across personal care, support services and nursing, allied health and clinical services.

Looking for more information? Trilogy Care is a registered Home Care Package provider,

offering self-managed Home Care Package options to approved care recipients. If you have applied for, or have been approved for a Home Care Package, contact Trilogy Care to learn how to make the most of your Home Care Package budget.

NSW Seniors Festival Expo 2024

The Trilogy Care team will be at the NSW Seniors Festival Expo on the 13 and 14 March at the International Convention Centre in Darling Harbour. You can find us at site 49 and 50 and talking on the main stage on Saturday and Sunday during the lunch session. Not going to the NSW Seniors Festival Expo but would like more information? Go to trilogycare. com.au or call us on 1300 459 190.

Melanie Greenaway

EXCEL PROPERTY AGENCY

DIRECTOR/LICENSEE

Describe your business in one sentence.

Excel Property Agency is an all female dynamic Real Estate Agency leading the way on the Coffs Coast for over 18 years in Property Management and Sales.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

Ensure you take some time out for yourself! This will give you the opportunity to not only re energise but a chance to look at how your business is operating. Be proud of your achievements and know that you are working constantly towards your goals, which will result in your success.

How do you balance career, personal life and passions?

When I work this out I will let you know! Ha ha ha! Real Estate consumes you… a lot! You have to create the balance, take control and learn how to juggle!

Our intentions are the same throughout our industry, however we set ourselves apart through the care and dedication that we have for our clients. We have a genuine approach to ensure that our clients and their needs are our priority.

What are your business’s core values?

Excellence, Integrity, Accountability and Trust.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

What are the secrets to your success?

Can’t tell you that, it’s a secret!!! How did you persevere through the tough times?

Bubbles… lots of bubbles!

I have four gorgeous kids that keep me grounded and am grateful to have a supportive husband that I can count on.

How can women stand in solidarity with each other?

Our clients have come to trust me and our brand. The majority of new business being repeat or referred to us which I am very grateful for. For me, once a client comes on board, we build a relationship that lasts a lifetime!

Oh and my fabulous team; we are there for each other no matter what.

Always remember that tough times are part of life, and its only a matter of time before the better times come back around.

Knowledge, trust and relationships. This is my 28th year in Real Estate so my industry knowledge is certainly a key strength. Our clients have come to trust me and our brand. The majority of new business being repeat or referred to us which I am very grateful for. For me, once a client comes on board, we build a relationship that lasts a lifetime!

How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course of your career?

Real Estate comes with many highs and lows and these experiences need to be managed with the balance of experience, knowledge and an open mind. We continue to grow and adapt in our ever changing industry. Some things you simple can’t control, but how you manage them is what counts.

By being empathic and understanding of one another. We all share similar experiences and being able to talk about them and appreciate each other’s perspective and point of view makes us stronger together.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you

We are a local business, our office is situated at the Jetty. I have an open-door policy and love to meet new people, so feel free to drop by! We look forward to connecting:

02 66524646

30 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour

melanie@excelpa.com.au

www.excelpa.com.au

Or you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Kiara Lindsay

PLATINUM BEAUTY AND SKIN CLINIC

Describe your business in one sentence.

Coffs Harbour’s first Non-Surgical Body, Skin and Beauty Clinic

How is Platinum Beauty and Skin different from the rest? What I feel really makes us different is the support, commitment and dedication we have in achieving your personal goals. We strongly believe in a bespoke personalised approach and not just picking a ‘one size fits all’ service off a menu. Designing a treatment specifically suited for your needs ensures the results you desire.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role? As the business has rapidly expanded, I have also had to learn to mentor and become more of a leader. This has definitely been the hardest part of business to learn but also the most rewarding. This has also allowed me to keep up to date and stay in front of the curve within the industry which then benefits our community by having the most up to date treatments and expertise at your fingertips.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024? As of 2024 we have launched our personalised, bespoke memberships and Platinum Care Plans. These have been such a successful business pivot, benefiting not only the consumer but the business’s financial stability.

My idea of personalised plans exclusively offer an affordable way of having the self care that all us women need and deserve!

Keep implementing 1% at a time and before you know it, you will have achieved the big goal that felt nearly impossible to achieve, and celebrate the li le wins!

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. A strength I feel that has played a massive role, is listening to the good and bad feedback and always keeping in mind ‘how can I do better’.

I suppose the correct term for this is ‘Being Optimistic’. Always taking the good with the bad and turning a negative into a positive. Once I started not letting things feel so personal and replaced this with ‘how can I learn from this’ business got a lot easier to navigate.

What are the secrets to your success?

My biggest motto I live by is ‘the 1% rule’. We can’t have everything all

at once and success doesn’t happen overnight. Keep implementing 1% at a time and before you know it, you will have achieved the big goal that felt nearly impossible to achieve, and celebrate the little wins!

How did you persevere through the tough times? One word.. CONSISTENCY! Consistency is key in every aspect of life! Whether it be exercise, skin care or dieting, if you want to achieve something bad enough you need to be consistent, even when it feels like you aren’t seeing the results you expected and you feel like giving up, STAY CONSISTENT! One day all the hard work will be worth it.

How do you encourage women not to give up? Any little effort IS EFFORT! Break everything you need to do into bite size pieces, it’s much easier to do then. One of my favourite analogies is ‘you can’t eat an apple in one bite, smaller pieces are easier to swallow’. Don’t give up, just make the ‘to do’ list smaller. What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? The best way to get in touch with us and find more information about what we do is to visit our website or give us a call at the clinic, we are always up for a chat!

platinumbeautycoffscoast.com

0438 473 588

KIRRALEE WALTERS, LAUREN BALDRY, KYLIE KLAUS, RIKKI CETINICH, RUTH SIWINSKI, AMBER DAVIDSON, TASH WALL, ZARA SATCHELL.

Coopers SurfAUSTRALIA

Describe your business in one sentence. Locally owned leading surf lifestyle store run by local people passionate about the industry and providing our community with all the latest products from the surfing Industry.

What are your business’s core values?

We are a Local family business full of brands inspiring the pursuit of self-expression and an active lifestyle. We are innovative and forward thinking, nationally aware, yet locally responsive constantly adapting. We relentlessly focus on our consumers, selling products to enhance their lifestyle.

Take it in and take it on! I know for sure we get things thrown at us from le field every now and then, take it in, sit with it for a sec and just take it on, what’s the worst that could happen?

Collaborating instead of competing. Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024? We are always excited to be able to support our brands with their new products and in a fast-paced industry like the surf industry there’s always new technology and evolving products built by people who are passionate about surfing and all that it has to offer. We are always seeing new technology in surfboards and accessories and the apparel tech from our brands is second to none. Everyone is jumping into sustainability and ensuring we are always helping our environment when creating new products.

We won’t learn the lesson for next time if we don’t try it once.

How can women stand in solidarity with each other? Women can stand in solidarity together by showing support to one another through all of life’s highs and lows. By empowering each other to be the best version of ourselves without the desire for jealousy.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world? Take it in and take it on! I know for sure we get things thrown at us from left field every now and then, take it in, sit with it for a sec and just take it on, what’s the worst that could happen? It doesn’t work out…, that’s ok and if it does work out that’s great!

How do you encourage women to not give up? From personal experience I have learnt that the mind is such a powerful tool, and rather than become overwhelmed with the end goal, find determination in how far you have already come and that will give you the drive to keep going. Baby steps; it’s a marathon not a sprint. How do you empower yourself and the women around you? I believe that being empowered is one of the most significant qualities as a woman. Surrounding myself with friends and family who love and respect me has taught me how to be a strong woman. Being able to listen to others and their stories, being supported and supportive, being uplifting and uplifted, has taught me to encourage the women around me to be the best possible versions of themselves as women, and encourage myself to be the best possible version of me.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? The best way to stay up to date with Coopers Surf is by following along on our socials on Instagram and Facebook

@cooperssurfaustralia

@coopersboardstore

KERRIE FIELD

THE SHORELINE – LUXURY RETIREMENT LIVING

CUSTOMER RELATIONS CONSULTANT

Describe your business in one sentence. The Shoreline provides Premium Residential Aged Care in Coffs Harbour. The Customer Relations Consultant is responsible for the admission of new residents to The Shoreline. I’m the first point of contact for people seeking care in the community.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

The Shoreline Luxury Retirement Living and Residential Aged Care home is a state-of-the-art retirement community like no other. We have a cinema, café, library, swimming pool, indoor gymnasium, hair salon, bar, fitness instructors and of course experienced and friendly 24 hour nursing care with registered nurses, enrolled nurses and companions (assistant in nursing),wait staff, housekeeping and lifestyle staff.

they will not receive at any other residential aged care home. I’m understanding and time given to the person in need is so important and I want them to feel that when they walk away.

What are your business’s core values?

Empathetic approach to our clients. I have a deep knowledge of the industry, and impart this knowledge to each and every person I meet. Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role?

Commissioning an aged care facility from scratch requires patience from everyone. At times challenging, but so rewarding to see the doors open in October 2022 and what we have achieved. I’m compassionate and want the resident/family member to walk away with an experience that

I’m a good communicator, I am always honest, show respect for everyone I meet and have high integrity and a strong work ethic.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world?

Trust you own instincts, surround yourself with positive thinking people who make you laugh everyday.

What makes you a strong woman? What fulfils you?

I feel I am a people person, easy to deal with, I’m resilient in my personal and work life and I like helping people. I like to inspire others (residents/colleagues) to achieve their best. I try to foster good relationships in the workplace and I will always be honest.

JULIE SECHI

THE SHORELINE – LUXURY RETIREMENT LIVING

PROJECT SALES & MARKETING MANAGER

Describe your business in one sentence.

The Shoreline is a Luxury Retirement Living & Residential Aged Care Precinct.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

The unparalleled luxury resort style of The Shoreline, our central beachside location and our offering of both independent living and residential care.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role?

This isn’t something I’ve learned but the universe has gently reminded me, that regardless of age we should all be living our best lives now. My role at The Shoreline is to provide information and vision to retirees looking at a better lifestyle at The Shoreline where they can live their best retirement life.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024?“

This year we launched community care services delivering to The Shoreline’s Retirement Village. We offer access to housekeeping, companionship, personal care, clinical services, and allied health to people over 65 years old. We hope to expand our services to the

broader community in the coming months and look forward to our brand-new offices opening very soon.

How have you built confidence and/or resilience over the course of your career?

Being a lifelong learner means there is always something new and exciting to master. To me there’s a certain confidence that comes from adding to the knowledge bank. A flow on effect from this is usually change, after all you have grown. Change can be challenging, but if you can get through it, you’ve built your resilience.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you?

Sales Suite-Park Beach Plaza (opp. Ritchies IGA) OR 0477 777 957. www.theshoreline.com.au

Veronica Hibbard

REVIVE IV WELLNESS

Describe your business in one sentence.

Revive IV Wellness is a health and recovery centre with a homely feel, where people can come to improve their vitality and energy while having a relaxing experience to recharge their batteries.

Hyperbaric Chamber Oxygen Therapy, Hot and cold Exposure Therapy and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy also known as “grounding therapy”.

What fulfills you?

How do you empower yourself and the women around you?

I started Revive based on my own personal health experiences. About 5 years ago I suddenly felt symptoms of Perimenopause. My mood, fatigue, sleep and energy all seemed to crash overnight. As a nurse I knew it was my hormones, so I acted on it straight away. I researched a lot on nutrition and gut health and discovered IV vitamin therapy, it helped me to feel more energised and myself again. Finding this workable treatment empowered me as a woman and as a result I wanted to share this and inspire others.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

There is no other wellness clinic like Revive. I think what I have created is something very special within our community. Not only do we offer customised vitamin treatments, but we also have other forms of treatment which work in conjunction with our vitamin delivery to give the best outcome for each person’s needs regarding their health, healing, vitality and longevity.

Our combined nursing experience equates to over 60 years of clinical skill, not to mention the ability to truly care for the individual and their specific health needs and goals.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role?

Facing a lot of adversity in my life and coming out on top is what has made me a strong woman. The result of this is knowing I am very happy with my life, and I know it is only going to get better. What fulfills me is my job as a Nurse which comes with a type of council to others and helping someone improve their life not just from my services but also my caring interest in them.

Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2024?

I believe the thing that sets us apart is that we have qualified Registered Nurses as part of our expert team. Our combined nursing experience equates to over 60 years of clinical skill, not to mention the ability to truly care for the individual and their specific health needs and goals. Each nurse brings their own unique experience and their knowledge in health. They are specially trained in Vitamin therapy, Red light therapy,

In the last 12 months I have learnt a lot about myself when it comes to being the owner of a business, especially after being an emergency nurse for 17 years. My clients were patients in the hospital, and I did enjoy helping them but never received any feedback on how they were doing. Since starting this business and putting my nursing skills towards this purpose, I get to see first-hand my clients improve for better health and living, and I absolutely love seeing this.

What makes you a strong woman?

We are very excited to have added some amazing services to Revive. These include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Red Light Therapy, Grounding Mat Therapy (PEMF) and Sauna and Cold Plunge Therapy. All these modalities work separately and together to enhance faster recovery, more energy and longevity. What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you?

www.reviveivwellness.com.au

Revive IV Wellness

ICOFFS HARBOUR

n the dynamic world of education, a new wave of leaders is emerging, bringing fresh perspectives, dedication, and innovation to Catholic schools nationwide. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s an opportune time to highlight the invaluable contributions of female principals and deputy principals in Coffs Harbour Catholic schools.

In recent years, the number of female leaders in Catholic schools has been on the rise, reflecting a positive shift towards greater gender equity in educational leadership. These women bring a

Catholic Schools

wealth of experience, passion, and insight to their roles, enriching the learning environment for students and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity. Catholic schools provide a values-based education grounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Students are not only academically prepared but also guided to develop

In recent years, the number of female leaders in Catholic schools has been on the rise, reflecting a positive shi towards greater gender equity in educational leadership.

strong moral character, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards others. Caroline Lewis, principal of Saint Francis Xavier School, Woolgoolga, spoke for the group: “As well as a commitment to educational excellence, each of us prioritises the cultivation of a supportive and loving community where every child feels they belong.”

MICHAELA O’SHEA-MILLER, LIZ WATTS, AMBER BIDDLE, LEANNE GENNAT

Liz Watts, principal of Mary Help of Christians Primary School, spoke of the importance of a united approach to school leadership:

“Each of us is part of a school team made of a principal and two or three deputy principals.

beautifully to nurture the whole child; spiritually, intellectually, physically and emotionally.

The diverse strengths of our team members come together beautifully to nurture the whole child; spiritually, intellectually, physically and emotionally.

The model was developed by The Lismore Catholic Schools Office in response to the increasing complexity of leading contemporary schooling. The diverse strengths of our team members come together

Pictured are the principals and deputy principals from Saint John Paul College Coffs Harbour and feeder schools Saint Francis Xavier, Primary School Woolgoolga, Saint Augustine’s Primary School Coffs Harbour and Mary Help of Christians School, Sawtell.

Did you know:

• The Roman Catholic Diocese of Lismore stretches along the coastal strip of New South Wales from Tweed Heads in the north to Laurieton in the south and west to the foothills of the Great Dividing Range.

• There are 45 vibrant and dynamic school communities in the Lismore Diocese serving more than 18,000 students and employing 2500 staff.

• Choosing a Catholic school will provide your child with a unique educational and faith experience which seeks to form young people of faith, hope, purpose and joy.

KATRINA RYAN, MARGARET RYAN, NAOMI LOADER, CAROLINE LEWIS

COFFS COAST BWN

VICKY BAMFORD, LISA BAXTER, KERSTIN THODE & ANNIE LEVITT

Ready to make new social and business contacts, meet and be inspired by like-minded businesswomen, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES, AND ENJOY CONNECTING WITH SUPPORTIVE WOMEN AT SOCIAL EVENTS? You’ll love being a part of the Coffs Coast BWN. We’re a collective of empowering women who aspire to do more.

MEET THE BWN COMMITTEE

Lisa Baxter is BWN President and the owner of Maggie’s Pet Co - an immersive pet wellness brand. Maggie’s boutique retail store offers thoroughly researched and carefully selected products for your pets, handpicked by the small team behind the scenes, to offer a service and product that exceeds expectations. Maggie’s encompasses a pet wellness hub, where owners can trust that everything they sell we would never hesitate to provide, use or offer our own dogs. They also manufacture their own range of Pet Treats and Organic Pet Care. Lisa also volunteers for WIRES, rehabilitating wildlife, focusing on flying foxes and microbats.

Kerstin Thode is the Vice-President and is the Principal Solicitor of Smart Choice Law, a local law firm that is known to help their clients achieve amicable separations and divorces, in a caring atmosphere. Kerstin, who is a certified divorce coach, also runs Re-Charge Divorce Coaching and Retreats. ReCharge introduces a holistic approach to healing through their uniquely designed divorce retreats. These retreats, combined with a range of online courses, offer a comprehensive exploration of every aspect of divorce. From legal navigation to emotional well-being, Kerstin provides invaluable resources and support, empowering individuals to move forward with resilience and optimism. Kerstin believes in the power of holistic healing in the face of life’s challenges.

Julia Blair is our Secretary, and is an expert level business support professional with 25+ years of experience from a wide variety of business industries, sizes, and structures. Julia offers virtual administration services to coaches, female solopreneurs and other small business owners. Specialising in tech solutions and right hand admin support, Julia brings a stacked toolkit of skills to solve problems, eliminate wasted effort and energy on getting things done. This also helps make her the perfect Secretary for the BWN committee.

Annie Levitt is Treasurer and manages a portfolio of business banking clients at Commonwealth Bank. Within her team she specialises in the diversified space and has colleagues that specialise in property, health, childcare, agriculture,

accommodation. She looks after everything else. Annie supports local businesses through enhancing their financial wellbeing and security, and has been a welcome new addition to the committee.

Cath Fowler is an SEO consultant, website designer and copywriter who helps businesses get found and look good online. Using SEO smarts and compelling copy she will establish your brand as the leader in your local area or industry. She loves working with businesses of all kinds to help the little guys compete on the big stage. Degree qualified in marketing and economics, she’s got the perfect mix between creativity and analytics to ensure your digital marketing campaigns get results.

Lace Browning is the Disability Employment Services Manager at Ability Options (formerly Chess Connect) providing exceptional leadership across the Mid North Coast and Clarence Valley. She is dedicated to improving the lives of

people living with disability by providing support to those who are looking for work to achieve their goals and to find long term employment opportunities. She has been a long term attendee and committee member of BWN for many years.

Focus Magazine’s own Advertising Specialist, Sam Dawson is a welcome addition to the BWN committee. She is also a Marriage Celebrant ‘Married by Sam’. As a professional Marriage Celebrant and Justice of the Peace she has completed the required legal requirement of the Certificate IV in Celebrancy with annual ongoing professional training. She has had the privilege to be a part of over 500 weddings to date and that includes the Coffs Coast, Sydney, Alice Springs, Queensland and Darwin to name a few! She’s a passionate marriage equality supporter, LGBTQI+ friendly celebrant. Vicky Bamford grew up in Coffs as an active member in the community within

sports, cadets and the State Emergency Service. Having been a member of the NSW Police Force for 23 years, Vicky is currently transitioning out of the Police Force. The support of BWN during her time in Coffs has been nothing but supportive. She has made life long friends through this network. She understands the demands of working in high pressure situations with long shifts at the same time as juggling a family.  As you can see, we’re a talented mix of smart, capable women making a real impact for our local community. We’d love you to join us.

How can Coffs Coast women get involved? Membership starts at just $89 per year and we have packages available for corporate teams. You can enjoy a 25% discount on event pricing, a free website directory listing and much more.  bwn.org.au coffscoastbwn coffscoastbwn

CATH FOWLER, SAM DAWSON, JULIA BLAIR & LACE BROWNING

DHOLLY BROWS

escribe your business in one sentence?

I specialise in Semi Permanent Cosmetic Tattooing including Eyebrows, Lip Blush, Eyeliner and Areola Tattooing, and take pride in being a leader in my field, having 23 years of experience in the beauty industry.

What are your strengths?

My commitment to excellence extends to attending continued advanced training and seminars across Australia. This ensures that I stay ahead of the latest trends and techniques in this specialised industry so my clients are getting the best treatment they possibly can.

What sets you apart? Beyond the artistry, what sets me apart is my compassion. I’m here to listen, guide, and help you discover greater confidence within yourself. My goal is to bring out your natural beauty. Eyebrows are my specialty with precision and artistry. Whether you desire fuller, defined or perfectly shaped brows, my expertise in semi permanent brow tattooing ensures a look that is uniquely tailored to you.  New services: I have recently added Areola Tattooing to my services supporting Women on

HOLLY NORTON   COSMETIC TATTOOIST

their journey to recovery is truly an honour.

As a Cosmetic Tattoo Specialist

I’m privileged to offer Areola Cosmetic Tattooing - a transformative and empowering service for breast Cancer Survivors and those on the path to healing.

This intricate art not only restores physical symmetry but also plays a profound role in rebuilding confidence and self esteem.

To all the incredible women on this journey, know that you are seen, heard, and celebrated.

I’m here to be a part of your story, enhancing your natural beauty and restoring confidence. How do I empower myself and others around me?

Following my passion, which is to help other women become more confident within themselves.

We all have our own journey and it is Important as women to celebrate everyone’s uniqueness and to help encourage and support one another.

0433 329 746

info@hollybrows.com.au

Shop 18-20, Cinema Walk Arcade, 11 Vernon St, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450

TAZMYN JEWELL

CEO-HEALTH VOYAGE LTD

Describe your business in one sentence.

Healthier PeopleStronger Communities. That’s our vision, and the ethos behind Health Voyage. We are a local for-purpose not-for-profit that’s doing great things in the primary health and wellbeing space across Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Yaegl nations.

What are your business’s core values? Health Voyage (previously GenHealth) has been serving the Coffs Harbour community since 1986. That’s almost four decades of health and wellbeing provision through the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre, Headspace Coffs Harbour since 2008 and more recently Headspace Grafton since 2017. At the core of our organisation is the mission to provide quality, compassionate and accessible health and wellbeing services tailored for women, young people, and people in need of mental health support.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? Health Voyage has recently partnered with 5 NGOs forming the Therapeutic Alliance. We are a group of local, established, not-for-profit service providers whose combined experience is driven by a social model of health. By working collaboratively and leveraging the expertise across our organisations we are

working to transform how mental health services are delivered. Our community will know us as Healthy Hub Connect. Health Voyage is administering the Mental Health Nursing Services Program. Funding for this initiative has been provided by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN program, with EACH serving as the lead agency.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. I am a heart leader and a true collaborator, I think that is my biggest strength. For Health Voyage, our biggest strength is our amazing staff. Across our services, our corporate team and our Board of Directors, everyone is incredibly caring and passionate, there is a shared understanding about the importance of our work, and this creates a special energy and joint purpose.

What do you want to achieve next? There is so much need in our communities, and we are stronger together. Our future focus is greater collaboration and partnerships with like-minded organisations in our region to increase innovation and access to health and wellbeing support.

healthvoyage.org.au

Funding Acknowledgement: Visit healthvoyage.org.au for Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre, headspace Grafton and headspace Coffs Harbour funding acknowledgements.

TOP ROW: LEFT TO RIGHT: KAZ MACK, THERESE RYAN, LYN ROVERE

BOTTOM ROW: LEFT TO RIGHT: KELSEY WOODS, MILLY TRIBE, KELLY HOWARD

Introduction:

Celebrating 10 years in business, Therese and Lyn, business partners behind Cornerstone, had been serving their impressive world-wide client portfolio from a home office which they rapidly outgrew. Cornerstone have now expanded over this time to a talented team of six dynamic and inspiring women, striving for excellence from their First Avenue, Sawtell bespoke office space which offers a transformative and assuring environment, for both their clients and the Cornerstone Team.

Cornerstone Conveyancing SERVICES

handed approach and an in-depth understanding of the broader legal aspects bringing over 7 decades of combined experience and expertise in property law and conveyancing. Conveyancing is our speciality – it’s all we do and we do it very well.

What are the secrets to your success:

One of our aims is to cultivate a culture of trust, the foundation of an enduring and rewarding client and workplace relationship.

One of our aims is to cultivate a culture of trust, the foundation of an enduring and rewarding client and workplace relationship.

the power of collaboration, strong teamwork and resilience which plays an important role in our business success.Our team understands that each conveyancing transaction is unique, representing one of the most significant financial investments in our clients’ lives. We are committed to our clients and strive to deliver an exceptional, personalised customer service experience.

Describe your business in one sentence:

Offering personalised legal services for those looking to buy or sell property incorporating residential, strata, off the plan, rural and commercial real estate on the Coffs Coast, Nambucca Shire and right throughout NSW.

What sets you apart from your competitors:

We are very much about raising the bar for conveyancing on the coast and as a profession. We have a sure

At Cornerstone Conveyancing, we aspire to develop and maintain strong client relationships which is the key to our success. We achieve this through trust and integrity, both of which are held in very high regard and form part of our core values. We have built a solid business partnership sharing a common sense approach and appreciate the commercial reality of buying and selling real estate.

What part of the business are you most proud of?

Definitely the team we have around us, at Cornerstone. Our women led team, being Therese, Lyn, Milly, Kelsey, Kelly and Kaz, believe in

What does the future hold for Cornerstone Conveyancing in 2024: 2024 – a milestone year as Cornerstone Conveyancing celebrates 10 years in business this April. Therese Ryan took a leap of faith establishing the business in 2014 with the introduction of Lyn Rovere to the practice and forming their formidable partnership in 2016.

Culminating with the above milestone, it was time to review our website to convey our credibility that comes with over 70 years industry experience between us and to showcase our accomplished team of empowered women that attribute to the Cornerstone core values of experience, trust and integrity.

Visit our New Website:

02 6699 3522

cornerstoneconveyancing.com

info@cornerstoneconveyancing.com

Lindsay Russell

SALES & MARKETING MANAGER – THE BIG BANANA FUN PARK CO-DIRECTOR - BROKEN OPEN PRODUCTIONS

Describe your business in one sentence. A whole ‘bunch’ of fun! What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role?

At the end of 2023, I attended one of the Council’s Breakfast of Champions Tourism Breakfasts, I was thrilled to hear Michael Lockman’s, the CEO of The Big Banana, update on the exciting new attractions and planned growth for the Fun Park. I was so impressed; it was almost fate when I soon after saw the role of Sales & Marketing Manager appear. I thought to myself that this was one incredible opportunity to boost tourism on an even larger scale by

getting involved with a regional leader.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2023? Where do I begin? We have just launched four incredible Escape Rooms, Hyper Bumper Cars, Duckpin Bowling - which is probably the cutest bowling you have ever seen- and are constantly improving areas such as the Fun Zone and Water Park.

From engaging educational activities to impactful fundraising initiatives for Camp Quality, your smiles won’t just be a result of the fun you’re having – they’ll be inspired by the positive impact we’re making together.

Beyond our attractions, I’m thrilled to share our involvement in various partnerships and community outreach programs. From engaging educational activities to impactful fundraising initiatives for Camp Quality, your smiles won’t just be a result of the fun you’re having –they’ll be inspired by the positive

impact we’re making together. If you’re reading this right now, make sure to reach out if you feel you have a partnership or collaboration opportunity.

Of course, my events experience is going to come into play. Make sure to follow our social media pages to stay up-to-date on fun, unique event activations for all demographics.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world? Keep persevering.  What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? I’ll be mostly behind the camera at The Big Banana- but you’ll be seeing me at Fun Park events, plus an influx of tourismfocused articles online written by myself at bigbanana.com. You can also find me on quite a few social media channels! From @broken. open.productions to promote live music gigs & events, to @coffscoastfoodwine to help people discover the local foodie scene.

BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

As a teacher and Year Coordinator at BDC, what's your approach to nurturing student development?

Nicole - My role involves fostering student growth by collaborating with staff to cultivate the essential skills and attributes vital for their learning journey and overall wellbeing. I specialise in junior Science, Biology, and Extension Science.

Janine - As the Careers Pathways Advisor I assist BDC students in navigating their career journey through school and into pathways such as vocational education or university to achieve their dream vocation.

Explain your strengths from a teaching and personal perspective? Nicole - Developing a rapport with my students is at the core of my teaching philosophy. It's crucial to me that the young people I work with feel acknowledged and valued. I prioritise listening and offering support, striving to create a classroom environment where learning is not only educational but also enjoyable and engaging.

Janine - I’m able to connect readily with students and draw upon my diverse education and career experiences to partner our students with exciting

opportunities and to assist them in becoming their own personal career manager.

What exciting developments can we expect from Bishop Druitt College in 2024?

Nicole - We're thrilled to introduce two innovative courses: Agriculture and Entertainment Industry. We've recently welcomed Barkley, our Wellbeing Dog, into our school community. Barkley isn't just a furry friend; he's an integral part of our wellbeing programs, providing companionship and support to both students and staff alike. We're also deeply invested in Deep Learning. This approach is tailored to cultivate essential competencies such as collaboration, citizenship, character, communication, critical thinking, and creativity in our students, preparing them for success in an ever-evolving world.

Janine - Well a big change is that I am new into this role for 2024! We have a very big and exciting year ahead of us!

@bdccoffs

@bishopdruittcollege bdc.nsw.edu.au

NICOLE MATTHEWS YEAR 12 COORDINATOR AND SCIENCE TEACHER

JANINE RYAN CAREER PATHWAYS ADVISOR

DWADJAR REGIONAL INDIGENOUS GALLERY

escribe your business in one sentence. We are a leading Aboriginal Cultural Centre that strives to invest in community, arts and culture by reinvigorating traditional practices and knowledge.

What sets you apart from your competitors? All of our programming is First Nation driven, and our cultural values are underpinned by the ideology of our Elders past and present. Whilst we have a small team, we engage many artists and knowledge holders to deliver authentic experiences and workshops at our centre.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role? The importance of working together. Creating partnerships and working in collaboration to empower others is fundamental to supporting healthy and vibrant communities.

Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2024? We have 6 new exhibitions including a touring exhibition from the Australian Centre of Moving Images, titled “Two Girls from Amoonguna”. We will also be hosting two festival events; Dream On and Mother Spirit Women’s Gathering.

What are your business’s core values?

Recognising Rights and Maintaining Culture is one of our primary objectives.

Our philosophy is grounded in understanding that we build stronger individuals and communities through programs that support cultural identity, heritage, and healing through cultural preservation.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

Our strengths lie in our history, our knowledge and connection to this land, our resilience and our cultural advocacy. We maintain a safe space for connection, education and expression.

What are the secrets to your success?

Empowering others is fundamental to our success. We have a great team of creative thinkers - three women who can multitask.

Of course having the support from Create NSW and IVAIS has greatly assisted with us delivering events and programs.

What do you want to achieve next?

Expanding on our gallery space would allow us to receive and curate larger exhibitions and develop future heritage displays. I would love to see a strong emerging generation of First Nations artists, performers and language speakers.

How do you empower yourself and

the women around you? We create opportunities for women to develop skills and share. It’s important to give and receive praise and also accept constructive criticism.

How can women stand in solidarity with each other? We host an annual Women’s Gathering every year bringing hundreds of women together to connect and celebrate sisterhood.

This event is open to all women and provides a platform for sharing and growing ideas and beliefs.

I think being a mother and raising healthy happy individuals is one of the most important roles a woman can have and this is often undervalued.

Listening to and appreciating our Elders who have a broad range of lived experience builds a stronger community. How can we expand women's links to each other? Hosting industry events acknowledging women’s achievements is great but also taking time out to support a woman in need is invaluable. Teaching our young women self-care and how to support each other promotes awareness and resilience.

yarrawarra.com.au

gallery@yarrawarra.com.au

ALISON WILLIAMS CREATIVE DIRECTOR

TORI DONNELLY ARTS ADMINISTRATION

LILLY CLEGG EVENTS & MARKETING

ANNIE LEVITT

RELATIONSHIP EXECUTIVE COMMBANK

Describe your business in one sentence. As a CommBank Business Relationship Executive I'm the key contact for medium to large diverse regional businesses, from Macksville to Yamba, and all over the beautiful Mid North Coast.

What sets you apart from your competitors? Our commitment to fostering strong relationships sets us apart from our competitors, underpinning our mission to build a brighter future for our clients and empower their ambitions. Through our personalised approach and deep understanding of their needs, we can create bespoke financial solutions.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role? No day is ever the same when you work with clients from a wide variety of industries all facing their own different challenges. My mantra is keep asking questions, and then ask some more to get to the heart of the issue.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024? CommBank has a strong focus on delivering innovative and reimagined products and services. We look to support a sustainable future through sustainably linked/green financial products. We have exciting, new e-commerce payment solutions, and I’m always keen to explore commercial lending opportunities and welcome people to reach out to me to discuss. What are your business’s core values? We care about our customers, community and each other – we serve with humility and transparency. We have the courage to step in, speak up and lead by example. We do what’s right and we work together to get things done.

0408 744 136 annie.levitt@cba.com.au

Disclaimer: Applications for a merchant facility are subject to the Bank’s approval. Fees, charges and conditions apply. Rates are subject to change. Full terms and conditions, interest rates and fees will be provided with any agreement upon credit approval. Terms and conditions for CommBank's products and services are available on our website.

Describe your business in one sentence. I empower the disability sector with essential life skills that lead to meaningful relationships, safer sex and empowered choices through 1:1 personalised sessions and workshops.

What sets you apart from your competitors? As a former Police Officer turned Certified Sex Educator & Master NLP Coach, I draw from live experiences to create a deeply personalised solution far beyond clinical confines; meaning I don't follow a strict rule book or template telling you how you ‘’should do things to achieve a result’’.

Tell us the new and exciting services that are happening in 2024?

1:1 Support for clients ready to achieve relationship goals; ranging from building friendships, to dating and building safer sex habits. I offer one off consulting sessions and host workshops and group training delving into consent, safer sex, and relationship mindset. Following my recent panellist experience at the BWN event, I’m also eager to speak at more inspiring live events.

Tell us about your strengths from a

COURTNEY NOLAN

business and personal perspective. I really love the conversations most people shy away from, particularly in the context of relationships and intimacy. I've been told my strength is putting people at ease quickly, meaning we can get to the root of the issue faster and get results.

What are the secrets to your success? I see people for who they are, without labels, creating a normalcy around discussing intimate topics and providing unwavering support, so clients never feel “abnormal” or like there’s something wrong with them.

How do you empower yourself and the women around you? By building a community of likeminded people and not sitting on the sidelines, I encourage others to do the things that excite them and practise what I preach. I don’t claim to have all the answers, I'm always open to learning new ways of doing things.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you?

info@courtneynolan.com

@courtney__nolan

0434 706 209

courtneynolan.com

SUE BEEHAG

SUBEE PL

Describe your business in one sentence. Locally owned, community based support and clinical services for aged and disabled clients on the Coffs Coast.

What sets you apart from your competitors? We have been the same, locally owned community care service for 31 years.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role? Without a strong, professional and loyal team, our business would not be what it is today.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024? We are excited to be working on a new project around dementia care in the community and also projects around accommodation and support of people with complex care needs for clients who live within our community. We are expanding our clinical support for our clients, and other service providers, and expanding into other areas along the eastern seaboard of NSW.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. Subee is a community-based care

service on the Coffs Coast, with consistent and same ownership for the past 31 years. We provide care for NDIS recipients; we are an approved aged care provider, and we also provide clinical support for complex physical needs, together with brokerage to other service providers, lawn and garden services, cleaning and clinical training services. We recently achieved our re-accreditation with the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission with no unmet standards, and we also have full accreditation with ACIA and the disability standards.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast-paced world? Stay focused on your goals and have a strong, loyal supportive team around you. Make sure you make time for yourself and take time out to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? We can be found on our Subeenewlake Facebook page, Linkedin or on our subeenewlake.com.au or simply call 6651 3153.

RENAE DONOVAN

3 BEARS COTTAGE & DONOVAN’S SURF CLUB RESTAURANT AND BAR DIRECTOR/CREATIVE CONSULTANT

My entrepreneurial journey began three decades ago with the establishment of 3 Bears Cottage, a haven for early childhood education and care. Through nurturing and caring for children, I've honed skills in creating exceptional experiences and fostering lasting connections. The recognition bestowed upon 3 Bears Cottage, including Excellence Award for Large Private Regional Service, is a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation, with the added honour of exceeding National Quality Standards.

At 3 Bears, we've always believed in the power of personalised service and attention to detail. Every interaction, every experience, is infused with warmth, care, and a dedication to excellence. It's been an incredible journey, witnessing the growth, development, and happiness of all the children.

Now, as I embark on a new venture at Donovan’s Surf Club Restaurant and Bar alongside my husband, Matt, and our dedicated team, I continue to remain actively involved in both enterprises and bring with me invaluable lessons and experiences.

Donovan’s isn’t just another dining spot in Coffs. From the moment guests step through the door, they’re greeted with its renowned view and the irresistible aroma of Matt’s famous seafood chowder and a refreshing glass of Donovan’s Lager.

Since joining the Surf Club team, I've consulted on the expansion of our wedding packages. From personalised décor to stunning floral arrangements, every detail is curated to ensure seamless coordination and impeccable service. Drawing from the values instilled during my time at 3 Bears - flexibility, adaptability, quality, and excellence, we are committed to setting new standards in the hospitality industry.

Together with our team, we aim to elevate Donovan’s into a destination renowned not only for its breathtaking views and distinctive culinary offerings but also for the warmth, care, and attention to detail that define the Donovan’s experience.

3bearscottage.com.au surfclubcoffsharbour.com.au

L:R - BREA DENNIS, CAROL EVANS & SUZANNE VAN GESTAL

Carol Evans

COPY CENTRE COFFS

Tell us about your business? Copy Centre Coffs, owned by Carol Evans, is a premier printing destination known for its exceptional quality, customer service, and quick turnaround times. With a commitment to exceptional quality, personalised customer service and a wide range of printing and promotional products, along with professional graphic design, we ensure that every customer’s needs are met with precision and care.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role? Over the last 12 months, I’ve focused on improving our customer service by implementing a more streamlined ordering process, investing in new printing technology to enhance the quality and efficiency of our products, and expanding our range of promotional items to better meet the needs of our clients. Additionally, I’ve worked on building stronger relationships with our suppliers to ensure that we always have access to the latest materials and technologies. These efforts have helped us stay competitive in the market and continue to grow our business.

What are the secrets to your success? On a personal level, I am highly motivated and dedicated to achieving success. I am also a good communicator and team player, able to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients alike. My attention to detail and focus on quality ensure that every project I undertake is completed to the highest standards.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? My advice for women working and living in a fastpaced world is to prioritise selfcare and personal well-being. Remember to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and to be kind to yourself during challenging times.

My strengths lie in my ability to understand market trends, my strategic planning skills, and my knack for building strong relationships with customers and suppliers.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. From a business perspective, my strengths lie in my ability to understand market trends, my strategic planning skills, and my knack for building strong relationships with customers and suppliers. I also excel at managing finances and operations efficiently, ensuring that the business runs smoothly and profitably.

What do you want to achieve next? In the Copy Centre, my next goal is to expand our product and service offerings to even better meet the needs of our customers. Improve our online ordering system and implement new customer service initiatives.

Any tips on growing a company? Set clear goals, Understand your market, Focus on customer satisfaction, Build a strong team and Manage your finances wisely.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you?

copyshop@copycentres.com.au

copycentres.com.au (02) 66501400

copycentrecoffs

copycentrecoffs

SARAH Mc LAUCHLAN

SARAH MCLAUCHLAN GARDENS LEAD DESIGNER & DIRECTOR

Describe your business in one sentence. A garden design studio bringing your outdoor dreams to life by crafting lush and resilient gardens. What sets you apart from your competitors? Our edge lies in the fusion of practical experience and a formal qualification from the esteemed London College of Garden Design.

Offering a personalised approach, I can tailor solutions to your individual needs and budget, ensuring a truly bespoke experience for every client; from advice on planting small spaces to full scale plans for implementation.

Services range from site reports with plant and materials recommendations to comprehensive design packages encompassing concept, masterplan, detailed construction drawings, planting plans, plant and materials schedules, 3D renders, and mood boards.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024? I am thrilled to be leading the design and installation of ‘Nature’s Pantry,’ an innovative garden showcased at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show in March. Made possible by Open Gardens Victoria, it will showcase current trends in garden design with a lush and edible display. What are your business’s core values? Flexibility, integrity, and a

commitment to excellent customer service.

What are the secrets to your success? Our success stems from doing what we love and seeing happy clients in their new gardens.

Embracing both curiosity and accountability ensures a constant pursuit of growth and improvement, and our focus on great communication helps to keep everyone happy.

What do you want to achieve next? Having recently relocated from Melbourne to the Mid North Coast, I am excited about exploring a diverse range of plants in this new environment. As a lifelong learner I am always adding to my knowledge of horticulture and garden trends, to ensure that we offer exceptional garden design services.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you? Visit our website: www.smgardens.au or email sarah@smgardens.au. Follow us on Instagram: @sarahmcgardens and Facebook: Sarah McLauchlan Gardens. Contact me at 0435 566 793.

I look forward to discussing how we can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant haven.

JACQUI HEWARD

FOOD CULTURE NUTRITION

Describe your business in one sentence.

We offer nutrition knowledge and support to help individuals understand healthy eating and seamlessly integrate it into their busy lives, empowering them to prioritise health, optimise performance, and enjoy eating.

12 years of experience. This, paired with my drive for professional advancement and client success means you’re in good hands.

With a specialisation in Sports Dietetics, my business provides services that are hard to find in this area.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. With a specialisation in Sports Dietetics, my business provides services that are hard to find in this area. This was a driving factor in starting my own business. Regional athletes should have the same level of support as their peers in metropolitan areas.

On a personal note, I enjoy working with people to find a healthy relationship with food and boost their performance at the same time. Eating should be enjoyable, not stressful! Also, I know my stuff. I have a high level of education with 2 niversity degrees in the nutrition field, plus

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? You can do hard things, like starting your own business! Just start. Fostering supportive business relationships is empowering, and builds resilience and longevity.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you?

Have a look at our website www.foodcutlurenutrition.com.au or our Instagram page @food.culture.nutrition

Or get in touch at info@ foodculturenutrition.com.au

How do you balance career, personal life and passions?

As best as I can haha, and sometimes I don’t. Organisation and time management are everything, and I’m getting better at self-care, which is the real game changer. Being honest with myself about what I have the capacity to achieve has been really important.

STAYSHARP ACCOUNTING

Lauren Reid

COFFS PILATES

ANITA PERRETT SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

STASHA DUNN PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT

Describe your business in one sentence.

StaySharp Accounting is a boutique accounting firm with experienced staff available to support you with your business, SMSF and personal taxation obligations.

What sets you apart from your competitors? We work with our business clients to not only ensure that their lodgement obligations are attended to on time, but that their data is accurately maintained throughout the year. Where our client is doing their bookkeeping but may not be confident, we are happy to provide regular feedback and support to help them develop these skills.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role? Choose your clients wisely, you don’t need to say yes to everyone. Work to your strengths so that

you can remain focused and motivated.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. As a team, we feel strongly about office culture and work-life balance. We are a team of women who support each other, which enables us to better support our clients.

How do you encourage women to not give up? Set clear goals for yourself with achievable deadlines. Remember to stop and appreciate how far you have come, and when you get to a good point in your life, spend time there, don’t feel pressured to continually grow if you are happy with who you are now.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you

0408 308 101 or book a meeting via our website: staysharpaccounting.com.au

Describe your business in one sentence.

Boutique Pilates and wellness (sauna, massage and facial treatments), specialising in small personalised classes with passionate and experienced practitioners.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

We have 5 people maximum each session and tailor sessions to YOUR needs! Our practitioners also have the most experience around and our setting is a little nature sanctuary!

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024?

We now offer a trapeze table in our semi private sessions! Great to rehab and challenge our community differently!

And our facial massage treatments! We call these “Pilates for your face!”

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective.

I am and always have been

a perfectionist! I’m very passionate about health and the importance of mindful movement and time in nature for mind and body, it heals so many aspects! I am very dedicated to results for our community.

From a personal perspective I’m very organized when it comes to healthy alternatives to food, healthy active kids and being an active mum and healthy role model for our family.

How do you empower yourself and the women around you?

We are a safe, non judgemental and non discriminating sanctuary. We offer a place where you can be yourself and feel amazing and recharge. I love attending all our offerings and being able to offer them to our community!

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you?

www.coffspilates.com.au

@coffspilates

Coffspilates

info@coffspilates.com.au

CHARMAINE GRANGER ADMINISTRATION & BOOKKEEPER

AVRIL WILLS ACCOUNTANT & BOOKKEEPER

CHLOE GAL MORTON

CLOUD CRÉATIVE CO. FOUNDER & PRINCIPAL DESIGNER

DDescribe your business in one sentence. Cloud Créative is a bespoke collective of principal interior architects, led by heart and integrity who bring together our diverse expertise to craft extraordinary interiors that embody heart and soul.

What sets you apart from your competitors? By embracing a remote working setup, our clients enjoy top-tier service without the sky-high price tag.

What truly sets us apart is our belief in building lasting relationships through collaboration and trust. We see ourselves as an extension of our clients’ team.

What are your business’s core values? Our core values encompass freedom, family, agility, heart, creativity, and honesty.

Our ethos is to have our "head in the cloud, feet on the ground."

We love BIG ideas and exploring creative solutions to company challenges. Our strength is pairing that creativity with

agility and practicality – you can’t have yin without the yang.

What are the secrets to your success?

Having worked in cities like Sydney, Singapore, and Vancouver, with amazing mentors and clients like Google, Facebook, Uber, Domain (just to name a few), the silver lining of Covid has significantly shifted the broader acceptance of remote work. Experienced professionals are gravitating towards a more flexible lifestyle. Our collective comprises exceptional individuals carefully chosen for their skills, many of whom have crossed paths working or studying together over the years.

What do you want to achieve next? We're expanding all across Australia and super excited to take our kindred collective global! The flexibility of our model excites us. We're geared up for 'anywhere' projects and pumped for those out-of-the-box opportunities coming our way—bring it on!

cloudcreative.com.au

SHELLEY BRAUER

escribe your business in one sentence.

From TV commercials to online marketing and events, we create videos for businesses across NSW.

What sets you apart from your competitors? The balance between our strategic marketing background and our passion as creatives. This holistic approach enables us to work closely with our clients to develop a custom product tailored to their unique goals.

What motivates you at work? I have a genuine love for getting to know my clients, what inspires them and how they use their talents to contribute to their community. I feel privileged to be able to then use my creativity and marketing skills to share with the community how great they are and ultimately help them to continue to help others.

How do you balance career, personal

life and passions? At work I’m routine, efficient and thorough…but when I knock off I’m spontaneous and open to a little chaos. The common thread is my passion for creativity, people and being completely dedicated to the moment.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. I have a strong local presence and network as well as a deep passion for fostering community. Bringing these elements of my personal life into my business enables me to tap into the many talented, skilled, creative people we have here in Coffs and successfully pull together all the right people for our productions.

Being capable and independent is strong but bringing those qualities together with others and nurturing a team is even stronger.

0434398143

thevideoagency.com.au

THE VIDEO AGENCY - PRODUCER / DIRECTOR

TANYA McMANUS

c

CLAYTON & FOSTER ACCOUNTANTS PARTNER

Describe your business in one sentence.

Clayton & Foster Accountants are a tight knit team of accounting and taxation professionals in the business of partnering with our clients to achieve their goals. What are your business’s core values? To provide a consistent down to earth, results oriented service, tailored to our clients personal circumstances and be a contributing factor in their success.

How have you built confidence and/or resiliency over the course

Tell us about your business. I run a digital marketing agency building great and functional websites, writing compelling copy, and helping businesses get found on Google.

I’m best known for my search engine optimisation skills. Traditionally, websites can focus on the design elements, but my motto is ‘design attracts, copy sells’. With over 20 years experience, I’m all about ensuring your website becomes your hardest working employee 24/7.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?

What advice would you give female business leaders?

Be authentically yourself and don’t be afraid to use your voice. That helps to attract the right kind of people that you’re going to enjoy working with.

It was an honour to win the Professional Services Category at the Coffs Coast Business Awards a few years ago, but my best accomplishment is demonstrating what a good empathetic, modern leader looks like.

I also remember every business interaction is never about business to consumer or business to business. It’s about one human connecting with another. There will always be someone with better skills, or more experience than you, but overwhelmingly, people choose to work with the person more than anything. That’s something that’s uniquely yours.

What’s the best way for other businesses or readers to connect with you

thedigitallaneway.com.au   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ fowlercatherine/

of your career? A solid foundation through education and ongoing learning provides the knowledge to build confidence, have the right mentors, believe in yourself and your abilities, focus on the positive, learn from challenges and surround yourself with people that encourage you.

How do you balance career, personal life and passions?

Have clear boundaries, excellent time management and be effective at delegation. Have a good support team, know your limits and when to ask for help.

cafa.com.au

CATH FOWLER

THE DIGITAL LANEWAY

DWescribe Maggie’s Pet Co. in one sentence:

Maggie’s Pet Co. is a pet nutrition and wellness store where we apply the latest in pet nutrition research to improve health and longevity in dogs and cats.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

Every item stocked or recommended by Maggie’s Pet Co. has undergone a strict evaluation process. This process includes contacting suppliers to determine the origin and quality of raw materials, closely monitoring products for formulation or manufacturing changes, and the deletion or discontinuation of brands that no longer meet our standards or expectations.

What have you learned in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role?

Over the preceding twelve months, I

have pursued certifications in Canine Homeopathy and Herbal Medicine, concurrently commencing a Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition and Dietetic Medicine). These studies have expanded my capacity to offer a more comprehensive range of information, facilitating the continuous enhancement of my knowledge base for the benefit of pet owners seeking natural support for common issues. Simultaneously, I am actively engaged in a work-based Diploma of Business, a program that provides me with valuable insights and critical skills. This diploma equips me to apply knowledge gleaned from topics such as enhancing workplace sustainability practices and market analysis, contributing to an improved strategic position in our industry.

hello@maggiespetco.com

Coffs Central Shopping Centre

hat makes you a strong woman? What fulfills you?

our students' lives every day.

EDEN BENNETT KIRSTY-LEE MEARS

Resilience is my secret weapon. It helps me tackle life's hurdles, turning them into opportunities for growth. I am fulfilled in environments that challenge my problem-solving skills and creative limits, thriving off constantly adapting and evolving. I’m fortunate to collaborate with an incredible team of women and mothers whose determination and ingenuity inspire me daily.

What are your business’s core values?

At JRDS, our main goal is to ensure young dancers feel safe and supported as they grow. We're dedicated to helping each dancer personally thrive through movement. We embrace diversity and inclusion, striving to make everyone feel welcome in our community. Passionate about dance, we always push for excellence, aiming to positively impact

Tell us the new and exciting services happening in 2024.

This year, we've launched Tiny Toes, a creative movement program for children aged 3 and under, designed to be flexible and adaptive to their developmental needs.

Our Little Leaps classes cater to 3 to 6-year-olds, offering structured sessions in various dance styles to build technical foundations and a passion for movement.

In line with our commitment to inclusivity, we've introduced 'Ability Beats,' a tap dance class welcoming individuals from the NDIS and disability community, providing an opportunity for connection through a shared passion for dance and music.

You can keep up with the JRDS dance family on Instagram/Facebook and via our new website www.julierossdance. com.au.

MAGGIE’S PET CO. CANINE NUTRITION/2IC

JULIE ROSS DANCE STUDIO STUDIO DIRECTOR FOR 2024

MyLifeMyStory expertly combines your life’s images together with your story into a personalised movie and book.

MyLifeMyStory is unique. It is personal. By meeting our clients in person and actively listening, it allows me to truly understand their personality, their way of speaking, and the emotions behind their stories while they share their images, unlike automated programs or forms.

This personal touch, together with the skills and technological advancements of today, provide an aging population and a younger generation that is so busy, the opportunity to record these moments before they fade or forgotten.

Combining my experience in nursing, diversional therapy, and business studies, along with my background in working for local businesses and managing my own business from home, has provided me with

invaluable expertise to apply to building a business that I enjoy and am passionate about.

Adapting a career to the stages of family life is important. Working from home is hard sometimes especially when you can hear lots of laughter from your family in the next room, so you work at a time that you can enjoy maintaining harmony between both.

The MylifeMyStory website offers a comprehensive explanation of how we came to ‘be’ and the underlying ‘why’ behind our mission. It also provides convenient ways to get in touch.

cathy@mylifemystory.au

mylifemystory.au

0409074000

We have a special offer for the months of April/May. You can scan this code or contact for more details.

and design sets specific to the client’s needs. We innovate in lash designs, and are doing things not offered anywhere else in the Coffs region. We make clients feel comfortable, important, listened to and provide them with the best service and skill we can.

Describe your business in one sentence. Lash Therapy Co is a fun and quirky lash and brow salon where you come to unload your worries, relax and leave looking fabulous.

What sets you apart from your competitors? We cater to the individual

What are your business’s core values?

Our business strategy is centred around customer satisfaction, in both quality of the lashes, vibe of the salon and pricing of the lashes. Our main goal is to make every client feel special, comfortable and happy.

What have you learnt in the last 12 months that you have brought to your role? We have learnt to be resilient and open in the ever changing beauty and business industry, to accept challenges, to be calm during change and proactive in finding solutions.

Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2024? We are innovating more with different styles, colours, curls and specialised sets. We are also expanding Lash therapy Co on to the Gold Coast later this year.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. Jess and I have combined 20 years experience in lashes and customer service. Our longstanding practise in lash extensions is what sets us apart from competitors. We are very positive and uplifting women and love to pamper the women who come through the door.

What advice do you have for other women working and living in such a fast paced world? Learn to trust your gut. Be ambitious and push yourself out of your comfort zone, one step at a time. Don’t forget to factor in your family/loved ones, your mental health and your selfcare.

lashtherapycocoffs

lashtherapycocoffs

OWNER

LASH THERAPY CO

EMMA HINDS AND JESSICA HARRISON

TRM KITCHENS + BATHROOMS

A locally owned business with extensive experience in the design, manufacture and project management of kitchens, laundries and bathrooms, as well as many other custom cabinetry solutions, such as the home office and wardrobes.

his year marks a remarkable milestone for our business as Managing Director, Bek, celebrates a decade at the helm. With an impressive 20 years of experience in the industry, Bek’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding us towards excellence. Her commitment to quality, coupled with her unparalleled expertise, ensures that every renovation project exceeds expectations.

Bek is more than just a leader; she is the driving force behind our success. As the lead designer, she brings creativity and innovation to every project, crafting spaces that are not only visually stunning but also functional and practical. Behind every successful business is a

dedicated and efficient Office Manager, and ours is no exception. Ally has been part of our team for seven years, managing all aspects of administration, accounts, and communication with both customers and trades. With a keen eye for design and years of experience in supervising bathroom renovations, Ally adds a unique perspective to our projects.

Our CAD/CAM Designer Cara’s meticulous eye for detail ensures that each project is executed to the highest standards and adheres to Australian regulations. Bringing years of expertise in precision engineering and design software elevating the quality of our work, setting us apart in an increasingly competitive industry.

At RM Kitchens and Bathrooms, we’re proud to be part of the changing face of the construction industry. With a welcomed shift towards greater inclusion of women, our team represents progress. From architects to project managers, women are leaving an indelible mark on every aspect of the construction process. We celebrate the contributions of all women in the industry and are committed to empowering and inspiring future generations. As we continue this journey towards greater diversity and inclusion, we look forward to the continued success and growth of our team and the industry.

RM Kitchens + Bathrooms

2/26B Isles Drive, Coffs Harbour 6652 2022

CARA

Describe your business. We are Triple Thread Learning, a mobile business that works face to face or online with clients aged 4 - adult who have dyslexia or other language based difficulties. Our Triple Threads are structured literacy intervention, professional learning and enrichment. We advocate, educate and elevate.

Tell us the new and exciting products/ services that are happening in 2024?

We are franchising! In September last year we signed our first franchisee and have just signed our second in February. We offer business structure, procedures, resources, education and ongoing support for educators who are passionate about literacy and who want to own their own business. Our franchisees are everything you see in the incredible educators you’ve come across in your life. They are passionate, patient, empathetic and driven. They see beyond the difficulties

people have with their functional communication and they find a way to enhance the choices our clients have through our services, but also by understanding the emotional impacts of learning differences. What do you want to achieve next? We want to empower more educators, particularly in regional areas, to own and run their own successful business and continue to do what they love - teach. We want to expand our professional learning opportunities in ‘Dyslexia Awareness’ and also ‘How to Teach Structured Literacy in the K-3 Classroom’. Most importantly, we want to learn and grow as our educators bring different perspectives and focus areas to Triple

TRIPLE THREAD LEARNING

Thread Learning to increase the positive work we do in our communities.

Best way to connect with us?

0421 256 753

triplethreadlearning.com.au

triplethreadlearning.au

franchise@triplethreadlearning.com.au

BELLO BEEF and RACHEL’S FARM

Describe your business in one sentence. Bello Beef & Rachel’s Farm are joining forces, growing local, grass-fed & grassfinished beef and practicing organic and regenerative agriculture.

What sets you apart from your competitors? We are the only direct to consumer regenerative, organic certified & Land to Market verified farms selling beef across the Coffs Coast. This has been highlighted by a documentary (streaming on Stan) which explains the methods and values of regenerative farming, called Rachel’s Farm.

Tell us the new and exciting products/services that are happening in 2024? Bello Beef recently opened its own butchery, giving us more control over our paddock-to-plate production, products, and the ability to use the whole animal, nose to tail. The butchery will enable more exciting

collaborations for 2024, like this one with Rachel’s Farm.

Tell us about your strengths from a business and personal perspective. Both of us have personally experienced a health or environmental crisis, and this has made us very aware of the fragility of our food system. Offering a healthy choice (outside a very narrow supply chain) to our consumers allows the surety of local provenance.

What do you want to achieve next? Awareness of the benefits of regenerative farming for land, animal & human health by offering a strong, visible and trusted brand for what we offer. How have you built confidence and/ or resiliency over the course of your career? Education! Learning, learning & learning…. about what you can and can’t control; in nature, in agriculture, in people and in business.

www.bellobeef.com.au

@BellingenBeef @rachelwardofficial

CLAIRE MURPHY & SONJA O’CONNOR

GEORGINA BAKER & RACHEL WARD

ZARA BALDWIN

BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE PDHPE TEACHER & BASKETBALL ACADEMY COACH

Leading with Grace: The Importance of Women Leaders in Education

As a woman school principal, I am privileged to lead a school that embodies the transformative power of female leadership. Clarence Valley Anglican School is a beacon of academic excellence and holistic development, where every student is nurtured to reach their full potential in a supportive and inclusive environment. My strengths lie in my unwavering commitment to building a team at CVAS that fosters growth and success. From a business perspective, my team excels in strategic planning, innovative problem-solving, and fostering collaborative relationships. On a personal level, my resilience, empathy, and dedication to well-being empower me to lead with compassion and integrity.

CVAS is a growing school where our focus is around fostering a culture of well-being and academic focus. By prioritising the mental, emotional, and physical health of our community, we create a foundation for sustainable growth. Additionally, maintaining

Describe your role in one sentence. As an enthusiastic PDHPE teacher and Basketball Academy Coach, I'm dedicated to fostering holistic student development through health, physical education, and skill enhancement. What sets you apart as a teacher? I bring a youthful approach to learning, providing fresh and innovative strategies to engage students in meaningful experiences that resonate with their interests and aspirations. Additionally, I was honored to receive the Rising Star National Award in 2024 from The Educator.

Tell us about your strengths from a teaching and personal perspective and how these link in with the opportunities you provide students with? My involvement in the National Referee Development Program with Basketball Australia underscores my resilience and dedication, qualities I apply to connect

a relentless focus on academic excellence ensures that our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

At CVAS, our core values of respect, opportunity, compassion, diversity, and community are not just words, but guiding principles that shape our culture and inform every decision we make. We believe in treating every individual with dignity and kindness, providing equal opportunities for all, and embracing the diverse perspectives that enrich our community.

Through compassion, understanding, and a sense of belonging, we create an environment where every student can thrive academically and personally.

02 66428205 principal@cvas.nsw.edu.au

Enrolment enquiries: enrolments@cvas.nsw.edu.au

ClarenceValleyAnglicanSchool clarence_valley_anglican

with students, establish rapport, and foster enthusiasm. This dedication extends to providing students with opportunities to excel both academically and athletically.

What do you want to achieve next?

Having led our under-17 girls' team to victory in the Division 2 Australian School Basketball Championships, I seek to provide students with high-level sport experiences.

How do you encourage women and your female students to not give up? Encouraging female students involves tailored support, creating a safe environment, and promoting achievable goals. Being a positive role model emphasises the importance of resilience, fostering an empowering atmosphere. Equal treatment and support are fundamental to creating an inclusive environment.

bdc.nsw.edu.au

KARIN LISLE

CLARENCE VALLEY

ANGLICAN SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Cathy Women Businessin

with CATH FOWLER

FROM THE DIGITAL LANEWAY

C k

MY LIFE MY STORY

Can you tell us about your business? I’ve always loved creating a movie from photos for an event. Whether it’s an embarrassing birthday celebration, holiday, or anniversary.

A few years ago, I lost my Dad. I found myself preparing a service, hosting relatives, and educating myself in a process unfamiliar to me, while dealing with the pain of losing someone. I had a week to sift through photos, recalling dates, places and memories. With little sleep, I prepared a tribute to honour my Dad’s life.

On reflection I realised how valuable it would’ve been to have had him with me. The ‘what’, ‘when’ and ‘where’ he should have been there to tell me, and he would have loved to help create it.

Since then, I’ve been approached by friends and family to create similar tributes. One was for a friend in palliative care. Initially, I thought I had to wait until she passed. But then it struck me - why wait? The beauty of our life stories lies in the journey, regardless of its ending.

We all have a story to tell, and it’s an amazing experience not only for you to see the road

your life has taken, but to be able to pass it on to your family. Your images, together with your story, told your way.

I’ve developed a process capturing these moments in the best possible way. I work together with you to create a beautiful and personal story you can share with future generations. With a career in nursing and diversional therapy, as well as working in advertising, branding, graphics, administration payroll and bookkeeping online, I now have the privilege of working for myself, doing what I love.

What’s your favourite part of the work you do? I genuinely love listening to people talk about their life. The changes they have seen, lessons learned, and their experiences along the way. These conversations get lost if not recorded, especially for the vast majority of the population that existed before digital photography.

It’s a privilege to work in not only what I love doing, but what I’ve had the opportunity to become good at.

Who is your greatest influence in business?

People of influence to me are those who dedicate their time in helping others enjoy life

and reach their potential. My Dad influenced me with his passion for cinema and he lived his life with ‘no regrets’.

Have you always lived on the Coffs Coast?  I moved to beautiful Bonville nearly 20 years ago. I loved raising my kids here without the ‘speed’ of city life, and with that transition came the gift of time. Time before and after school, time for holidays, time enjoying summer days at the beach without parking meters, time to just listen.  I live on a mountain with an amazing view close to beautiful Sawtell beach and with the incredible Dorrigo mountains behind me. The best of both worlds. I also have family up here, so to enjoy their company without the travel is another bonus.

What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? I guess I may be considered ‘old fashioned’ but I love life with my family. To have a career and be able to maintain that, is my definition of success. I don’t mean in monetary value, but in maintaining a balance without sacrificing either.

Where can people find out more about your business? Visit mylifemystory.au, or reach out for a chat at 0409 074 000 or via email cathy@mylifemystory.au

ANurturing Success:

s we continue into a new school year, it is imperative to acknowledge the crucial role parents play in shaping the educational trajectory of their children. This article explores the significance of parental engagement in the academic journey and provides insights from the perspective of a proud School Principal.

The Impact of Parental Engagement:

Research consistently indicates that parent engagement is linked to improvements in academic attainment across various stages of a student’s education. This includes early literacy, school adjustment, student attendance, motivation, selfregulatory behaviour, social skills, retention, and graduation rates (Emerson et al., 2012, p. 32). Recognising and supporting parent engagement is vital for fostering positive relationships with the school community. The relationship between parents and teachers is foundational to student success. As the Principal of Bishop Druitt College, the following insights outline how parents

Insights on Parental Engagement in the Schooling Journey

can actively contribute to a thriving learning environment.

1. Effective communication

As the Principal of Bishop Drui College, the following insights outline how parents can actively contribute to a thriving learning environment.

2. Establishing consistent routines

Open dialogue between parents and children about expectations, concerns, and academic goals fosters trust and strengthens the support network. Actively listening and addressing thoughts lay the foundation for a collaborative approach to learning.

A structured schedule that includes study time, extracurricular activities, and sufficient rest is crucial for academic success. It instils discipline and aids in time management, an essential skill for navigating the demands of the school year.

3. Active involvement

in the school community

Beyond the home, active parental involvement extends into the school community. Attend school events, participate in parent-teacher conferences, and explore volunteering opportunities, sending a powerful message that education is a shared responsibility.

4. Creating a conducive home

Education Update

with NICK JOHNSTONE

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

environment

Provide access to diverse learning resources, engage in family activities, and cultivate a love for social learning and literature. These elements contribute to a holistic approach to education.

Prioritising wellbeing

In the pursuit of academic excellence, it is crucial not to overlook the wellbeing of students. Promote a balanced lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, healthy nutrition, and sufficient sleep. A physically and mentally healthy child is better equipped to face the challenges and opportunities presented throughout the school year. The collaboration between parents and educators is a driving force behind a successful academic journey. By fostering open communication, establishing routines, actively participating in the school community, and prioritising wellbeing, parents significantly contribute to the holistic development of their children. Let us embrace this partnership as we navigate the exciting and enriching path of the new school year.

Source: Emerson, L., Fear, J., Fox, S., and Sanders, E. (2012). “Parental engagement in learning and schooling: Lessons from research.” A report by the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) for the Family-School and Community Partnerships Bureau: Canberra.

Useful Links:

https://www.education.gov.au/supporting-family-schoolcommunity-partnerships-learning

https://raisingchildren.net.au/school-age/school-learning/workingwith-schools-teachers/relationship-with-school

ISTATE OF PLAY

with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

n the heart of our communities, a crisis is touching the lives of countless individuals and families across the Western world.

At its core, this crisis centres around something fundamental to our well-being: housing. In Australia, as in many Western nations, the dream of finding a comfortable, affordable home feels increasingly out of reach for the middle class – especially young people.

The stark reality is that housing is in short supply not just in Australia but across much of the Western world. This scarcity has pushed prices to unprecedented heights, forcing middle class Australians to shoulder the burden of significantly higher costs. The implications of this trend extend far beyond individual households, affecting national mobility, economic growth, and the very fabric of our communities.

Consider the data: In major Australian cities, housing prices have soared, with Sydney and Melbourne often cited as among the most expensive places to live globally, and on the Coffs Coast prices have also skyrocketed. When compared to other Western countries, such as Canada and the United Kingdom, Australia’s housing market challenges are not unique, but are indeed among the most acute. This has led to a situation where many jobs go unfilled, as potential employees cannot find affordable housing near their workplaces. The lack of mobility stifles not only individual opportunities but also national economic growth.

HOUSING

The financial strain on families is palpable.

For most, relying on dual incomes has become a necessity rather than a choice, as housing costs consume a significant portion of household budgets. With interest rates climbing, the pressure intensifies. Larger loans, once manageable, now bite into finances with newfound ferocity. This scenario leaves less disposable income for spending elsewhere, impacting broader economic health and stifling entrepreneurship.

The fear of losing the family home, a concern deeply felt by many, discourages risk-taking and innovation, further hampering economic dynamism.

At the heart of this crisis lies a broken planning system.

The complexities and inefficiencies of current frameworks hinder the timely development of new housing, exacerbating shortages and inflating prices. It’s clear that the solutions to these challenges must be as multi-faceted as the problems themselves. Governments at all levels, alongside communities, must acknowledge the critical importance of developing new housing. This isn’t just a matter of policy but of

prioritising “human habitat” as a cornerstone of societal well-being.

When compared to other Western countries, such as Canada and the United Kingdom, Australia’s housing market challenges are not unique, but are indeed among the most acute.

The call to action is clear: we must embrace innovative solutions, from reforming planning processes to encouraging the development of cheaper housing. International examples offer some hope. Countries like Germany and Singapore have implemented policies that promote both housing affordability and quality, through a mix of taxpayer investment, regulatory reforms, and incentives for private homebuilders. The path forward requires collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to ensuring that every Australian can access affordable, quality housing. This isn’t just an economic issue - it’s a question of what kind of society we want to be. As we stand at this crossroad, the choices we make today will shape the lives of generations to come. Let’s choose a future where everyone has a place to call home, where our economy thrives on the back of fair opportunity, and where the spirit of entrepreneurship is limited not by fear, but only by the bounds of our imagination.

Money

MATTERS

with

DEREK JORDAN

FROM NORTH COAST LENDING

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR EQUITY

One of the most powerful elements of owning a property is that you may be able to access the equity in your current property towards growing your investment portfolio.

It can be a common misconception that you need to build up large sums of money to grow a large portfolio when in reality, homeowners will see natural growth over time, which can be leveraged towards a number of personal and investment needs, often with no additional savings or deposit required.

Building an investment portfolio is not the only beneficial use of equity. Where many home owners can leverage their equity for a number of other personal needs, whether

you have outgrown your current home and are looking to upgrade to a bigger home (buy and sell), or it is time to update a few things around the house with a few minor or major property improvements, the equity built up in your home over time may be able to assist in achieving these goals and many others.

We will work with you to work out the useable equity in your current property and how this may be leveraged towards your goals.

How do I access the equity I have in my home?

Talk to us about your plans. We will work with you to work out the useable equity in your current property and how this may be leveraged towards your goals. Whether

you are ready now or planning for the future, it’s never too early to work through your options and put a plan in motion.

What can I use my property equity for?

• Investing in property

• Upgrading your home

• Renovating the house

• Buy new and sell existing

• Investing in shares

• Buying a car/boat/caravan

• Helping family/kids to get a foot in the market

focus contributor.

Amy Harrison

SO FUN GYMNASTICS

So Fun Gymnastics in Woolgoolga has been around for over 14 years, so when it went up for sale a group of parents who didn’t want to see the club close decided to band together and do what was necessary to turn it into a not-for-profit community club. We spoke to one of those people; Amy Harrison, to hear about how it’s going and what’s needed to keep this valuable community hub open.

Hi Amy. Can you tell us about how you first came to be involved with So Fun Gymnastics?

We moved to Woopi from the NT in June 2022. My kids Izzy, 8, and Elkie, 3, love gymnastics. Izzy trains twice a week and Elkie loves KinderGym, so it was great to have a gymnastics club right here in Woolgoolga.

When the previous owner decided to sell the business, a committee was formed and it became a not-for-profit community program. Can you tell us about how this all evolved and what that means for the club now?

Julie Wales had grown So Fun Gymnastics over 14 years and had established an awesome team of dedicated coaches, who were all keen to continue with the club. I met with Julie to talk about what was needed. We gathered a group of parents who didn’t want to see the club close. I have previous experience on management committees and thought, if we still have the coaches and the athletes, then we could tap into community grants and sponsorship as a not-for-profit to maintain and grow the club. It was a rollercoaster of a time with lots of negotiating and uncertainty, and a huge leap of faith for all involved. With founding committee members Paris Hollywood, Alexis Grayson, Lydia Emery, Jodie Hocking and

Ebony Stead, we created the association and secured the new venue at 4 Tonnage Place. Julie was so generous giving her time and expertise to lead us in the new set up. Alex Greenhalgh stepped up as Head Coach, coordinating every aspect of the programs. Michelle Child and Lyn Legge supported us to make sure the Special Olympics program continued.

The club is an incorporated association with a volunteer committee (now Paris, Alexis, Lydia, Danielle Bottomley and I) that oversees governance and compliance. Our coaches are paid for their time and volunteers are leading the day-to-day running of the club. Athletes over 16 or parents with a child enrolled are automatically members, so

athletes progressing through levels on each apparatus. In Team Gym kids work in teams of 6 or more to create routines based on gymnastics skills and dance. Adult Gym is for older teens and adults to focus on gymnastics-based strength, conditioning and fitness. We also run school sport and birthday parties. We want to expand our program to include classes for a broader range of the community – if you could run something, get in touch!

There’s a number of instructors at the club, can you tell us about them and what they have to offer?

Gymnastics is a great foundation sport for every other sport, giving kids the opportunity to develop strength, agility, flexibility and confidence year-round.

anyone can contribute to how the club runs and vote at the AGM. After a year of operation, we’ve learned a lot and now need to set the club up for sustainable success by paying off our startup costs, increasing our income streams, expanding our programs and ensuring we have the right mix of paid and volunteer staff.

Many of the people involved volunteer their time to keep it running, why do you think the community has wanted to get behind it and keep it open?

So many locals have a fond connection with So Fun and it would be a huge loss to the community if it closed. 190 to 300 athletes attend our classes each week, making us one of the biggest clubs in the area. Gymnastics is a great foundation sport for every other sport, giving kids the opportunity to develop strength, agility, flexibility and confidence year-round.

Can you tell us about the classes and who the club is open to?

Our KinderGym class for kids 0 to 5 and their adults is super fun and runs most days of the week. A lot of grandparents bring their grandkids to this class, and they say it’s also great for their own fitness. Fun Gym is the genderinclusive recreational program where kids progressively learn skills on all apparatus. Women’s Artistic and Men’s Artistic Gymnastics is the traditional program, with

All coaches are either in training or have completed a gymnastics coaching accreditation. They learn how to support athletes with the key skills at each level, plan for classes, manage behaviour and follow procedures for safety and quality. Most coaches are still at school or studying, so having a pathway for training and retaining new coaches is really important. It’s a great job opportunity for youth in the area, retirees or anyone interested in health & fitness or working with children. We’re always looking for new coaches who can work during the day, or people to run their own program when the space isn’t being used. We couldn’t have kept So Fun going without the coaches - thanks Alex, Marie, Alina, Alexis, Abby, Olivia, Nathalie, Nikita, Isaac, Lilly, Meg, Maddi, Kalani, Tilly, Mia, Ebony!

How do you see the club moving forward from here? What needs to happen to keep this valuable community hub up and running? How can the community continue to get behind it?

We need to raise $130,000 by 30 May. This pays off start-up costs and allows us to set the club up for sustainable success. Check out our website for all the ways you can help, including tax-deductible donations, sponsorship info and program ideas. Where can people find out more or get in touch?

www.sofungymnastics.com.au sofungymnastics@outlook.com

Thanks Amy.

SOUTHERN CROSS UNI AND GUMBAYNGGIRR RANGERS

RESTORING BOAMBEE MANGROVES

The mangroves are an essential part of the Boambee Creek Estuary which weaves along the southern and south-west perimeter of the airport.

“A bit of investigating on NearMaps revealed that the mangrove forest was hit hard by a hail storm in October 2021, but two years on it had still not recovered,” said Professor Benkendorff.

“This is a worry because mangroves are really important ecosystems that provide habitat to fish, sequester carbon and help protect our shoreline.”

Professor Benkendorff joined up with the Gumbaynggirr Rangers to investigate what was going on. The Gumbaynggirr Rangers are responsible for looking after the cultural and environmental values within the proposed Gaagal Wajaarr Sea Country Indigenous Protected Area. Mechanisms like Indigenous Protected Areas support local Indigenous people to heal and care for their country.

Their inspection of the site revealed most of the mangroves were rotting away and the mud underneath was black and stinking.

“Our surveys revealed significantly reduced

mangrove seeds and seedlings and lower invertebrate biodiversity at the dieback site compared to a healthy mangrove forest upstream. There was also a strong smell of sulphur and the occasional smell of something more like petrol,” said Professor Benkendorff.

Further analysis at the University’s Analytical Research Laboratory, concerned Professor Benkendorff and the Gumbaynggirr Rangers.

The Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation received a grant from the Coffs Harbour City Council Environmental Levy program to support further research. The Corporation said: “When Country is sick, we are also sick”.

We found a range of toxic chemicals in the ro ing mangrove roots, including carbon disulphide and petrochemicals like naphthalene, furan, xylene and cresol.

“We found a range of toxic chemicals in the rotting mangrove roots, including carbon disulphide and petrochemicals like naphthalene, furan, xylene and cresol. These industrial chemicals are neurotoxic when inhaled and irritants to the eyes, skin and lungs,” said Professor Benkendorff.

“This indicates that the site may not be safe for people or aquatic life. We need more data on whether the seafood like oysters and crabs are also contaminated with these toxic chemicals.”

The Gumbaynggirr Rangers and the Southern Cross University team are now growing mangrove seedlings to help stabilise and restore the site. The first seedlings are progressing well at the National Marine Science Centre and will be transplanted into the estuary in the next couple of weeks.

“We know as First Nations people that we have more to offer within this space as we have knowledge that has been passed down over sixty thousand years. We are proud to bring cultural knowledge to the healing of sea country so we as a community can enjoy and watch this beautiful place we all call home thrive and have it for the future generations to enjoy,” said Jesse Shilling, Head Ranger of Gumbaynggirr Rangers.

Images: credit Kirsten Benkendorff

A bird’s-eye view of a forest of dead mangroves shocked Southern Cross University’s Professor Kirsten Benkendor as her plane approached Co s Harbour airport in early 2023.

FIRE ANTS

What are fire ants and why are they so dangerous?

Fire ants are the hottest topic in insect news right now and rightly so. But where do these invasive pests come from and what makes them so dangerous?

Southern Cross University’s Professor Nigel Andrew has the answers.

Fire ants are native to South America. They were first observed in Brisbane in 2001, after probably hitching a ride on a ship that docked at the Port of Brisbane.

They are small ants, about 2-6 mm and extremely aggressive. They swarm when disturbed and don’t only hitch rides on ships – they have been known to catch a ride on mulch and trucks. Sometimes they even make rafts of their own bodies to float down waterways!

Copper brown in colour with a darker abdomen, you might see fire ants of various sizes in the one nest. Most queens might fly up to 2km before building a new nest. But some queens can move up to 30km when they fly and have favourable winds. Why is everyone so worried about fire ants?

Fire ants are a very real threat to people and livestock. Fire ant encounters usually involve tens or hundreds of ants, and they swarm. Their sting is extremely painful, especially when they sting all at once. They have killed people (due to anaphylactic shock after being bitten) in the United States, removed livestock from infested paddocks and have decimated entire native ecosystems. They’re regarded as one of the world’s worst invasive species and although the DPI and National Fire Ant Eradication Program in Australia are working to control these pests, they have crossed the NSW-QLD state line and were found as far south as Ballina on the NSW North Coast in early 2024.

Fire ants are a very real threat to people and livestock. Encounters usually involve tens or hundreds of ants, and they swarm. Their sting is extremely painful.

further and does not impact all our lives in the future.

Fire ants can build super colonies with multiple queens and millions of ants. Their nests look like mounds of dirt and you might find them on lawns, footpath edges, garden beds or in bushland.

If you find a nest don’t spray it. Photograph it from a safe distance and contact the relevant authorities immediately. For information about identifying a nest and what to do, see https://www.fireants.org.au

We need to now make quick and decisive decisions to eradicate this pest from southeast Queensland so it cannot spread any

Images: credit National Fire Ant Eradication Progra

JANE

LEACH

MARINE RESCUE

Jane Leach is the Unit Commander at Coffs Harbour Marine Rescue. Jane has been involved with the unit since 2010, so we asked her all about what Marine Rescue does and how it all runs, including the invaluable role of the local volunteers!

Hi Jane. Can you tell us about when and how you got started with Marine Rescue and what your role is?

I moved to the Orara Valley with my husband Ian and two children in 2010 and decided to look for volunteer work. Marine Rescue NSW was advertising for volunteers, and I was interviewed and accepted as a trainee radio operator. I really enjoyed the role which is front-line, challenging and rewarding. Around 2017 I was asked to take on the admin portfolio, which provided me with a great overview of what it takes to operate and manage a Marine Rescue NSW Unit. Then, in 2022 I was elected as Unit Commander, and I am responsible for the overall management and command of the Coffs Harbour Unit. Our core mission is to save lives on the water, but the unit is involved in a variety of local community activities. For example, over the next month our rescue vessel Coffs Harbour 30, the Shearwater, will be on the water assisting with the Outriggers Regatta, Pittwater to Coffs Yacht race and the Sawtell SLSC Ocean swim. Recently we had a

major role in a regional joint emergency services exercise called SAREX and just last week we participated in a Flood Rescue preparation exercise at Urunga.

For those that aren’t familiar, could you explain what the role of Marine Rescue is and what a typical day might be like for you there?

Logging on provides Marine Rescue NSW with key details about the boaters’ trip, including where they are heading and when they are due back, saving precious time in an emergency.

A typical day starts with our radio operator opening the base at 0500 and they will be on duty for 3.5 hours. They will log on boats heading out for a morning fish or a trip along the coast.

Logging on provides Marine Rescue NSW with key details about the boaters’ trip, including where they are heading and when they are due back, saving precious time in an emergency.

Boaters can log on with Marine Rescue NSW via VHF Channel 16 or the free Marine Rescue NSW app so our volunteers keep watch for their safe return.

If a boater does not return as planned Marine Rescue NSW will initiate a search.

Watch shifts at Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour continue until 1900 when we hand over to Sydney for overnight monitoring.

If there is a request for emergency assistance, our rescue vessel will be called out, sometimes for long searches together with other Marine Rescue NSW crews. Crucially our amazing fundraising team will be busy somewhere running a BBQ or raffle raising precious funds to keep our operations running. You regularly coordinate with other teams, what might that look like and why is it so important to work together with other units?

Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour works with other units for joint Search and Rescue exercises on the water. Marine Rescue NSW is rolling out MPVs (multi-purpose vessels) and training crew to help with flood rescues and our crew will

be training with Marine Rescue Nambucca to be equipped for river rescues. Working with other units is really important as we cover for each other when a vessel is out of the water for maintenance as well as joint operations.

One morning I was contacted by the cruise ship Pacific Jewel who needed to evacuate a sick passenger, which then pulled up outside the harbour, an amazing sight.

You must have had some interesting and intense days on the job, can you share some examples of rescues you have had to execute?

I have been involved in many assists as a watch officer, vessels assisted include jet skis, kayaks, runabouts and yachts. I remember a call from a disabled yacht which we were unable to assist initially due to very challenging conditions on the water. We maintained contact with the stricken vessel overnight and in the morning, conditions improved and finally help could be provided.

One morning I was contacted by the cruise ship Pacific Jewel who needed to evacuate a sick passenger, which then pulled up outside the harbour, an amazing sight.

Many people may not realise the scale of what Marine Rescue does, how many marine rescues happen over a year in NSW?

The mission of Marine Rescue is Saving Lives

on the Water. In 2023 Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour had its busiest year on record, conducting 80 search and rescue missions safely returning 145 people to shore. Since the start of 2017 volunteers at Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour have completed 422 search and rescue missions. In parallel, it is mission critical that we maintain and upgrade our crews skills so if our volunteers aren't out saving lives on the water they are continually training so when the call comes they can execute a rapid response. Many boaters don't realise that mechanical, battery or fuel issues on the water can quickly become lifethreatening emergencies.

We ask all boaters to make sure that their vessel is in good working order, and ensure they have enough fuel for their journey with some in reserve. Always wear a lifejacket, always check the weather and conditions and boat like your life depends on it.

You rely heavily on volunteers at Marine Rescue. For anyone interested, what is the process like to volunteer? Do you need

to have any particular skills or are there certain requirements and what is involved?

Those interested in joining Marine Rescue NSW will have an initial discussion with our Membership Officer who provides information about our free service and the various roles available. There really is a place and a role for people of all backgrounds and skills. Full training is provided for those accepted for radio operator or boat crew roles, with members receiving hands-on experience before earning their rating.

What do you enjoy most about your work with Marine Rescue?

Aiding those in need on the water, the variety of the work, and the wonderful volunteers I work with make it a privilege to lead the Unit. Where can people find out more or get in touch?

Find out more by checking our website marinerescuensw.com.au/ or call Marine Rescue Coffs Harbour 02 6650 4900.

DON’T PANIC YOUR STARTING FEE

MAY ONLY BE TEMPORARY

Cashflow planning is important when moving into aged care, but plans can be thrown into chaos if your first invoice shows much higher fees than expected. This article sheds light on interim fees.

The first statement you receive when you move into residential aged care can be a shock, as fees might be far higher than expected – possibly even hundreds of dollars a day higher. This might not be an error but rather be just a matter of understanding how “interim fees” are applied.

If you are required to pay a means-tested fee as a contribution towards the cost of your care, how much you are asked to pay is determined by Services Australia based on their assessment of your affordability. Essentially, they review your assessable assets and income and conduct a means-test assessment. The problem is that you start paying fees from the day you move in, but it may take 6-8 weeks (or longer) for the assessment to be done and your fee to be advised. In the interim, your care provider will be unsure how much to charge you.

This is where interim fees come in. While waiting for Services Australia to calculate and advise the fee, your care provider can set an “interim means-tested fee” and charge this amount. Each provider decides how they will set this interim fee. They might:

1. Charge the maximum of $400.08 per day

2. Set the fee at a lower amount, based on an average paid by their residents, or

3. Use a calculator to estimate what you might be asked to pay and charge somewhere around that amount.

Whichever option the care provider chooses, if they charge you too much, the excess does come back to you (as a refund or a credit) once Services Australia have advised the results of their assessment.

While the higher-than-expected fee might only be a temporary glitch, it can still cause considerable stress and cashflow problems in the first few months. Three practical tips to help your situation include:

1. Ask your care provider for their policy so you know what to expect.

2. Fill in your means-test assessment forms as quickly as possible to minimise assessment

delays by Services Australia. If you receive a payment from Centrelink or Veterans’ Affairs, check all your details are correct and up-todate.

3. Make sure you have left enough money in your bank account to cover these fees. If you are making the move into residential care (or helping a family member), as an Accredited Aged Care Professional TM, I can provide advice to remove the uncertainty and help you choose the best strategy for you. Very often aged care providers will accept the fees that I calculate in my advice document and use them to set your interim fee – making it a fee that is more affordable and closer to your expected actual fee.

If you want to talk through your options or find out more information for your situation, call my office on 0431 414 799 to find out how I might help.

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).

P

Cwith SHANE BROOKS FROM STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR

WE LIVE IN A BEAUTIFUL PLACE!

offs Harbour continues to showcase a resilient and dynamic property market.

Nestled between the stunning coastline and lush hinterland,

Coffs Harbour remains an attractive destination for both homebuyers and investors seeking a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience.

The residential real estate sector in Coffs Harbour has experienced steady growth in recent months, with property values showing a positive trajectory. The median house price has seen a modest increase, reflecting the ongoing demand for housing in the region. This upward trend is attributed to factors such as the city's robust economy, employment opportunities, and the overall desirability of the lifestyle it offers.

One of the key drivers of the local real estate market is the diverse range of housing options available. From beachfront homes to suburban dwellings and rural properties, Coffs Harbour caters to a wide spectrum of preferences. This diversity has contributed to a consistently competitive market, with buyers having the flexibility to choose from various styles and locations.

The demand for coastal properties in Coffs Harbour remains particularly strong, as buyers

are drawn to the city's pristine beaches and stunning ocean views. Waterfront homes have become highly sought after, and their values have reflected this demand. However, the market remains accessible to a range of budgets, with options available for first-time buyers, investors, and those seeking luxury residences.

In addition to the residential sector, the commercial real estate market in Coffs Harbour has also demonstrated resilience. The city's strategic location as a regional hub for business and tourism has led to a consistent demand for commercial properties. Retail spaces, office buildings, and industrial facilities have all seen strong demand levels, with businesses recognising the potential for growth and prosperity in the area.

Coffs Harbour's real estate market has not been immune to broader economic influences, including interest rate fluctuations and global economic conditions. However, Coffs Harbour’s diversified economy and appeal as a lifestyle destination have contributed to its ability to weather these external factors.

Looking ahead, I expect continued growth in the Coffs Harbour real estate market. Our ongoing infrastructure developments (including the Pacific Highway Bypass),

planned new residential and commercial developments (a few big ones around the CBD) and community amenities (Jetty area including the boat ramp facilities upgrade), are expected to further enhance its attractiveness. As more people recognise the unique blend of coastal living and urban convenience that Coffs Harbour offers, the demand for real estate in the area is likely to remain robust.

Overall, Coffs Harbour's real estate market reflects a healthy and resilient landscape, characterised by steady growth and diverse opportunities. Whether seeking to buy or rent a family home, a home by the sea, a home in the hinterland, an investment property, or a commercial space, Coffs continues to offer a range of options in a picturesque setting, making it a standout destination in the Australian real estate landscape.

Yes, we do live in a beautiful place!

Some of the most common questions I get asked in real estate is “ how is the property market doing? Are prices going up or down? What do you think property prices will do in the next year? Are there many rentals around? What have rental prices done recently?” Next month I will focus on the data for the Coffs Market over the past 12 months in order to answer some of these questions.

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