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160 MAY 2024

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ISSUE 160 - M AY 2024 INTERVIEWS

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42

82

SAM McALLISTER

THE LITTLE MERMAID - BDC

KRISTY GLYDE & SANDRA HULBERT

Sam McAllister is an avid explorer, hiker and lover of the great outdoors. He gets out amongst it on a regular basis and has covered some incredible locations right here on the Coffs Coast and hinterland.

Rachel Caesar is the Performing Arts Manager at Bishop Druitt College, and has been heavily involved in bringing together their 2024 musical production of The Little Mermaid.

Kristy Glyde (President) and Sandra Hulbert (Secretary) started playing netball with Bellingen Netball Association in the 90s.

Between them they have over 30 years service, commitment and dedication to the club and are valued and known by many.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 32. PFLAG - Sam Dawson 63. Body Solutions - Kiara Lindsay 70. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 79. Education Update - Nick Johnstone 81. Women in Business - Cath Fowler CONTRIBUTOR

87. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh

OF THE MONTH

96. Property Report - Shane Brooks

KIARA LINDSAY

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

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W

Welcome to the MAY 2024 EDITION.

elcome to the May edition of FOCUS! A big shoutout to all the fabulous mothers in the Coffs Coast Community.

Mother’s Day is a special occasion, celebrating and honouring motherhood and mums in your family. It is a time to honour the powerful maternal bond that connects mother and child and celebrate the influence our mums have on us as individuals as well as on society.

For the first time in FOCUS history we have shined the spotlight on local POWER COUPLES. Power couples have a shared vision for their relationship and their individual lives. They communicate openly about their

dreams, aspirations, and goals, and actively support each other in achieving them. Their shared vision creates a sense of purpose and direction, driving them forward as a unified force. #couplegoals This month’s front cover features our region’s favourite power couple, Shane and Lynne Seccombe. Shane and Lynne Seccombe are celebrating their 44th wedding anniversary this year, and have been working together in their business Offbeat Operations for a similar time. Offbeat Operations is a highly successful family-run entertainment agency that has been keeping live music alive and well on the Coffs Coast and beyond for decades. We spoke to Shane about the ins and outs of how this power couple have made it work so well over the years.

COFFS COAST

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Next month is our annual Decades in the Trade edition. Have you been in business for 10 + years? Do you have a staff member/ members who have been with the company for 10 + years? Are you celebrating a milestone this month or this year? If there’s one thing we know about our community it’s that we are proud of our history.

The Coffs Coast is buzzing with business powerhouses that have been in business for a decade or more. We will dedicate the June edition to sharing the stories of those that have lasted the distance and continue to grow and succeed. If you would like to be involved, please reach out. We would love to hear from you.

We hope you enjoy reading all of the epic local content inside the May 2024 edition.

EDITION COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING SALES Nicci Seccombe - nicole@focusmag.com.au

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EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney - Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Bree McNickle - wedeliverfocus@gmail.com

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Coffs Coast Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2022 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Australian Community Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation.

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SHANE LYNNE & SECCOMBE 16 COFFS COAST focus

Shane and Lynne Seccombe are celebrating their 44th wedding anniversary this year, and have been working together in their business Offbeat Operations for a similar time. Offbeat Operations is a highly successful family-run entertainment agency that has been keeping live music alive and well on the Coffs Coast and beyond for decades.

We spoke to Shane about the ins and outs of how this power couple have made it work so well over the years.

P O W E R

C O U P L E S

O F F B E A T O P E R A T I O N S

H

i guys. Can you share a bit about your backgrounds and how you met?

Lynne came from Sydney at 16 years old to live in Coffs Harbour. We met a little while later when I was 17 years old and we have been together ever since, and celebrated our 44th wedding anniversary on 12 April 2024.

Can you tell us a bit about the beginnings of Offbeat Operations?

I played drums in a band called Free N Easy that did all the clubs and hotels up and down the coast. I booked all the shows for the band and got to know all the managers at the venues. In 1980 The Hoey Moey owners at the time asked me to take over booking the venue for them, it was our biggest break.

I didn’t have any experience in booking any big touring acts, so I was thrown in the deep end. Within two weeks we were booking all the big guns, like Jimmy Barnes, Noise Works, Paul Kelly etc. Since then we have built a loyal

base from this industry, from the venues, the band managers and their agents, the bands themselves and made some very close bonds and long-life friends.

The Bondi Cigars and then later Lisa Hunt who we are still the booking agents for today. We cherish the great working relationship we have with the North Coast Hotel Group as well as all our other valued How has it evolved venues. We have a great over the years?

In 1980 The Hoey roster of artists that At the beginning it was Moey owners at have been loyal to our just me working the the time asked me to agency for many years. business with Lynne We started to do major take over booking the helping to do the admin tours from Newcastle venue for them, it was work then later Lynne to SE QLD, then later I our biggest break. I started booking acts got involved in outdoor didn’t have any and venues. Lynne does events and became experience in booking all the doors and takes site manager for many care of the finances. any big touring acts, events, Long Way to The This month our eldest so I was thrown in the Top, Surf Skate & Slam, grandson, Hunter will be deep end.

Vans Warped Tour in 18 years old and Lynne 1998, Red Hot Summer, will be checking him Olympic Touch Relay at through the door !!!

Coffs International Stadium, INXS and Hunters Our daughter, Sharni was 16 years old when & Collectors last tour and local events like she started working with us. the Curry Festival, Chili Festival, Scotts Heads We started out booking a few venues and Festival and Blues & Berries. artists and the first act we took onboard was Continued over...

COFFS COAST focus 17

A little later we started to book into Queensland venues as their exclusive agents.

Back in the early days those venues were Surfers Paradise Beer Garden where we booked the likes of Jack Johnson, Michael Franti etc, Fisherman’s Wharf and Hinterland Hotel. We now book several Queensland venues such as Harrigans Calypso Bay at Jacobs Well which we have done for over ten years now. Offbeat was chosen as one of the top 5 booking agents to book Twin Towns, which we are very proud of. We supply artists for a lot of our corporate clients from Melbourne to Cairns. Shane also has a passion for production and doing sound. He started Offbeat Production & Events and supplies production for major touring artists, festivals, local venues and corporate events, and we are privileged to have a great, professional team working with us in our production company.

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Offbeat has been a family operation for many years, what’s the dynamic like with the two of you working together?

We supply artists for a lot of our corporate clients from Melbourne to Cairns. Shane also has a passion for production and doing sound.

I feel we work great together. We call it as it is, and are honest with each other. We all tell each other what we really think which is great to be able to communicate openly and honestly, and we always try to never bring business home after work.

What do you think are each other's strengths; what do you each bring to the table?

We both think differently, which is good. I am always doing a lot of things at once and am a workaholic. Lynne brings me down to

earth and tries to make me slow down a bit. (it's slowly working) It’s the yin and the yang !!!

What do you feel works well about being in business with your partner and what are some of the challenges?

We work well together, have trust in each other and as it’s our family business we can keep a close eye on the way it's run. The challenges are that it’s a 24 /7 business and we get phones call all hours if something goes wrong or at 11am on a Saturday or Sunday with an artist calling in sick. We then have to find a replacement which can take up to 3 to 4 hours to find, and on your day off that is a

O F F B E A T O P E R A T I O N S

So much work

real pain but we do it.

Sharni came straight goes on Or sometimes you can out of high school behind the scenes have a major tour or and started working that people just event happening and with us 3 days a week don’t see, which can the weather prevents answering calls, doing also be challenging it happening within 24 our poster runs and sometimes. hours. So much work general administration. goes on behind the Sharni went full time scenes that people just pretty quickly, doing don’t see, which can all the publicity for the also be challenging sometimes. COVID was touring acts and then booking artists on a also a shocker for all of us. Our industry was local and national level and taking over some one of the first to go and the last to come of our major venues, including the Hoey back.

Moey, Seaview Tavern, and many others. This has enabled us to expand our network and Your daughter Sharni is also part of Sharni is now a major part of our business and Offbeat Operations, how did she come to exclusively books about 9 venues, plus many jump on board the family business, and tours and artists. Sharni has been with us for what is her current role?

25 years, and we couldn’t do it without her.

Do you have any plans or aspirations for Offbeat Operations moving forward?

Continue to do what we do within our capacity to keep our artists working and keep our venues happy. We love what we do and it all comes together when you see a packed house with an audience dancing and singing, watching the band come off stage with the biggest smiles saying how much they loved it and the patrons thanking us for bringing quality music to their hometowns. At the end of the day the music brings people together in such a positive way and we are humbled to be a part of that.

Thanks guys.

COFFS COAST focus 19

Sam

McALLISTER Sam McAllister is an avid explorer, hiker and lover of the great outdoors.

He gets out amongst it on a regular basis and has covered some incredible locations right here on the Coffs Coast and hinterland. He has been documenting his adventures on social media and has inspired us to get out into the amazing natural spaces we have on our doorstep!

H

i Sam, can you share a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast?

I first moved to Coffs Harbour when I was 8 years old and grew up in Lower Bucca attending Korora School and then Jetty High and had an absolute ball growing up here! With the amazing beaches and creeks, to forest trails and lookouts there was always so much to explore! Over the years I’ve built so many amazing connections with people and family and have and always will think of Coffs Harbour as my home. I honestly just love where we live!

You’re an avid explorer; hiking and driving to many different locations around the area. Where does this adventurous spirit come from, do you think?

The adventurous spirit has basically just snowballed over the years through a love of the outdoors. As I was saying growing up on 20 COFFS COAST focus

the Coffs Coast, we were always outdoors outdoors! The main one for me would have exploring creek systems and forest roads and to be the fact that when I’m out in the bush out in the bush, and it’s just continued up to I can just tune out of the everyday grind and now where I like to push myself that little bit completely tune in to nature. It’s a feeling further to see more that’s hard to explain. of what’s hidden out When I'm off track deep there. It involves a bit in a rainforest, miles from Searching for the more planning and anywhere, I don’t have next challenge scouring maps these a worry in the world. with the reward of an days. Searching for I’m just taking in all the epic location that you the next challenge beautiful scenery and know is rarely seen or with the reward of an wildlife I encounter and heard of. It’s certainly epic location that you get a feeling that’s exactly an addiction and know is rarely seen or where I’m meant to be. something I just can’t heard of. It's certainly If you haven’t spent a lot get enough of! an addiction and of time out in the bush, something I just can’t whether it be camping get enough of! or hiking, you should definitely try it, I guarantee you’ll feel better What do you love most about the great for it. outdoors?

That’s a tough one! There is just so much to love about so many aspects of the great

You started documenting your travels on You Tube and social media, and have

gained a pretty solid following. What is some of the feedback you get from followers and friends about why they enjoy your account?

There are a few hidden waterfalls waiting to be discovered and the water clarity in the creeks and streams is second to none!

I’ve been on social media documenting and sharing photos of these adventures for a while now and just recently moved on to YouTube where you get to see a bit more of the hikes and action while I’m out in search of some of the best places the Coffs Coast has to offer. Most of my followers are avid hikers and people who love being outdoors as much as I do, so the feedback has always been positive which is awesome! Naturally people love seeing the more remote and harder to get to places and it gives them inspiration to want to visit and explore some of the more remote and off the beaten track places that this area has to offer.

You take a lot of photos and video on your outings, do you have any background or experience with photography and video, or is it something you’ve learnt specifically for documenting these places?

I definitely don’t have any background experience in photography or video! It’s something that’s just stemmed from taking a few pictures of places I go, to now where I actually enjoy taking photos and getting more video footage where I can properly do these locations

justice.

has its own picnic area with walking tracks and

Can you give us your top 5 day trip locations on the Coffs Coast and what you love about them?

swimming holes and a few hidden monsters as

Ok my top 5 ‘bang for buck’ would have to be:

Dorrigo National Park. This place has it all. Pristine World Heritage rainforest and some of the best hikes in NSW with some incredible waterfalls and lookouts on and off the beaten path. There is just so much to see and so much I’m yet to discover in the park. I just can’t get enough of the place!

well!

Nymboi-Binderay National Park is another one of my favourite places to explore and home to some awesome camping and swimming spots along the Nymboida River. Perfect for a day trip or a challenging off track hike. One of my favourite places I’ve hiked to is also hidden deep in this park!!

Is there somewhere you haven’t got to yet, locally or otherwise, that you dream of exploring?

One place I’m still yet to scratch the surface of

Bindarri National Park. My favourite park in the region and somewhere I’ve spent a lot of time exploring. Bangalore Falls and Urumbilum Falls are both located in this park and are easily accessible and are definitely worth the trip out.

There are a few hidden waterfalls waiting to be discovered and the water clarity in the creeks and streams is second to none!

and dream of exploring more is New England

Ebor. Famous for Ebor Falls and definitely another one of my favourites and one that I still want to explore a lot more. High up on the plateau it has amazing lookouts, walking tracks and plenty of lush green untouched rainforest to get lost in.

journeys or get in touch?

Cascade. Another ripper of a spot hidden up in the hills and home to plenty of old mining and rail relics, there is plenty to explore out here if you’re willing to find it. Mobong Creek

National Park. There are some vast and remote areas out there that are home to some of the best waterfalls and world class rainforests in NSW! I can’t wait to throw the overnight pack on and see what else is out there!

Where can people follow along your For sure, anyone who wants to follow along on my adventures can find me on Instagram as @harbour_explore where there’s a link to the YouTube channel! So, check it out if you love the Coffs Coast as much as I do. I truly appreciate everyone who follows along!!

Cheers!!

Thanks Sam. COFFS COAST focus 21

MAY 2024

3

CHILLINIT

420 Oz Crawl Regional Tour Plus special guest: Indigomerkaba When 3rd May Where Hoey Moey Time Doors open at 6pm (18+) Pre-sale Tickets $49.80 + BF

4

GLENREAGH MARKETS There’s something for everyone at these markets. Take it easy and enjoy a freshly cooked breakfast or a fresh Devonshire tea or coffee. It’s the perfect atmosphere to meet up with friends and let the morning pass by. When 4th May Where 62 Coramba Street, Glenreagh

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12

MOTHER’S DAY AT

MADE WITH LOVE MARKETS

5

With over 120 stallholders at each market, everything is handmade and locally made.

When 5th May Where Reflections Holiday Park, 123 Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour

RESILIENT HABITAT

11

GARDENS WORKSHOP

Learn the many benefits of habitat gardens and how to get started at home! Learn how to work with the natural environment to create diverse, resilient and low-maintenance gardens that support the environment. When 11th May Where Archie Hunter Memorial Park, Nana Glen Tickets from Eventbrite Bookings essential.

COR AMBA HOTEL

Join us at the Coramba Hotel for a special celebration in honour of all the amazing mums out there! We will be offering two sittings at 11am and 1:30pm, so you can choose a time that works best for you and your family. Each mum will be greeted with a complimentary glass of bubbles to kick off the festivities.

When 12th of May Where Coramba Hotel Bookings essential contact 6654 4216

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ALL ONE UNDER THE SUN FESTIVAL

All One under the Sun Festival is a celebration of cross-cultural Coffs Harbour bringing together everyone who calls Gumbaynggirr Country home to share the beautiful North Coast Botanic Gardens for the day with live music, dance, food, storytelling, and hands on activities for the whole family.

When 26th May Where North Coast Regional Botanical Gardens Time 10am until 3pm

SCAN TO VIEW MENUS AND TRADING HOURS

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Bon and Monty Scott are brothers from Bellingen who have been playing basketball together for a while now. They are equally passionate about the game and have both been selected for the 2024 Spalding Waratah NorthEastern Junior League for representative basketball with Valley Braves Basketball!

can dunk on one of them.

What is it that got you guys hooked on the sport, what do you love most about it?

BON & MONTY

SCOTT

H

i guys. Can you tell us about how you first discovered your love of basketball?

Bon: Some kids at school were playing basketball

and I had a go and loved it so I just kept playing it from then on. We would go to the skate park and meet other kids that wanted to play too. It’s fun because lots of different 24 COFFS COAST focus

people go there and are keen to play 1v1 or 3v3.

Monty: I love meeting new kids. Basketball is pretty big in the Coffs Harbour area and there are lots of competitions and training where I can shoot hoops with my friends. I like doing all of the skills and shooting.

Bon: I like shooting and I like playing with the team and my friends. I really enjoy watching games on TV and watching the men and women play at the Coffs We had a hoop Stadium.

at home that we started playing on and now we have three at different heights which is great because we can dunk on one of them.

Monty: Bon started playing it then I had a go and really liked it. We had a hoop at home that we started playing on and now we have three at different heights which is great because we

Can you share a bit about where you have played over the years?

Bon: We have mainly played in the Coffs Harbour area. This year though we have been selected for Representative Basketball so we get to travel a lot more. As warm up rounds we have been to Port Macquarie and Yamba. We played in Ballina a month ago and are heading to

Tamworth next month.

defence techniques.

You’ve played together quite a lot, but are now split into Under 12s and Under 14s. How has it been adjusting to the new age groups and not being together in the same group?

lots of techniques to use in a game. It’s cool Monty: Seeing the Braves teams play and because we practice our plays a lot and when going to the rep rounds. I also really love the we go into a tournament you can really see holiday camps that we go to. It's basketball how effective they are. all day and you get to mix up the teams and You’ve had some play basketball with great support from I am most lots of different kids. the community in excited about You have both been pursuing your dreams, going to the rep selected for the 2024 what does it mean to tournaments and Spalding Waratah you seeing other locals putting all of the North-Eastern backing you like that? plays that we have Junior League for Bon: It means a lot to learnt into action. representative have the support of local basketball with clubs and businesses. We Valley Braves are so excited to have Basketball,

Monty: It's still fun and now I get to watch Bon play his games too.

Bon: It's been pretty good. The Under 14s is okay but the players are so much bigger and faster. It has made me work a lot harder in practice and on the court. U14s have challenged me a lot more to get better at shooting and dribbling and passing. It’s made us also meet new people because we aren’t together all of the time.

How did you go in your domestic competition in Coffs this season?

Bon: We went really well. We came runners up in the finals and lost by one point. It was a really close game but heaps of fun!

What have been some highlights, like stand out games or moments, for each of you?

Bon: Going to Port Macquarie and Ballina for the rep games. It's heaps of fun because it’s like a holiday with your teammates and you get to play lots of basketball. Also, Coffs Harbour had the Bronwyn Vigors Pacific Challenge where loads of really good players came from Queensland and the Central Coast. I like watching how different teams play together and seeing their offence and

Braves team every week. We get to learn

congratulations! What does this mean for each of you and what are you most excited about?

sponsorship as it’s paid for our basketball fees

Monty: I am most excited about going to the rep tournaments and putting all of the plays that we have learnt into action. We have played a fair few games as a team and are getting really good at knowing where each other is and playing as a team. We do lots of training but our coach also does lots of fun stuff like training down at the beach and fun days that are organised by the Braves team.

Poultry Club’s support as Bellingen is only a

Bon: It was so exciting to be selected. The Under 14s is a Division 1 team with really good players and the best coach. We have training every week and I get to see the

and our new uniforms. I think that we are very lucky to have the Diggers Tavern and the small town but it still supports kids wanting to play sport.

Monty: It feels good that somebody’s supporting our dreams.

What are your dreams and aspirations for the future?

Bon: I think one day I would like to be in the NBA or another big league.

Monty: I want to be drafted into the NBA and play with other players and win MVP. Thanks boys COFFS COAST focus 25

JAMES LANDER P H O T O G R A P H Y

26 COFFS COAST focus

H

ey James, tell us about that moment you first picked up a camera and thought this was more than just a hobby?

Absolutely! Living in a city offers an endless array of subjects to explore. I dabbled in a few things. I was particularly drawn to the vibrant world of graffiti and street art, chasing after mesmerising sunsets, and mastering the art of capturing milky waterfall shots. I just loved documenting the colour and the noise of it all.

My style? It's like a living, breathing thing always evolving. In the early days, my style leaned towards the dark and moody, reflecting perhaps my own mood at the time. However, my more recent landscape work has taken on a whole new vibe - it's bursting with vibrant energy, mirroring a shift in my outlook. It's fascinating how our art can evolve alongside us, isn't it? These days, it's all about capturing moments in their raw, unfiltered honesty.

I'd say it's somewhere between being a fly on the wall and, well, a It’s fascinating bit assertive. Here's a how our art can snippet from a review disposable film cameras. evolve alongside us, that sums it up nicely: 'A I've snapped a few isn’t it? These days, successful photographer shots of some bands, it’s all about has to be curious and and then boom - Resin capturing moments stick their nose into Dogs hit the stage. Local in their raw, people's business, in the legend Travers Ross even politest way possible; unfiltered honesty. joined them that night, James excels at both.' making it an absolute It's all about finding blast. Fast forward to my that delicate balance first Jungle Love festival between observation shoot, and they're on the lineup. Then, there's and action. the recent Riversounds Festival - talk about You have become known for your work in a hat-trick! Honestly, I've always been hyped the live music scene. What sparked your up about live gigs. So, when you throw in my passion for capturing live performances love for photography, it just clicks. Plus, after through the lens of your camera? witnessing countless cloudless sunrises, I was craving some action, you know? Live music?

Ah, the live music scene - it's become It's an endless surge of energy, and I'm all somewhat of my playground. Picture this: I'm about it.

17, at a Global Music Festival in Bellingen,

How would you best describe your style?

armed with one of those cardboard Kodak

Hey there! Haha, gotta chuckle at this one. Honestly, I can't pinpoint the exact moment when it happened, but here's a bit of a twist. I blew my 18th birthday cash on what the family thought would be a sweet ride but ended up snagging my first camera instead, quite the unexpected plot twist! Photography kind of snuck up on me and evolved into something more than just a hobby over time. It wasn't until I was living in Brisbane that I really started taking it seriously.

Right before I headed back to the coast, I scored my first gig shooting a music festival - Jungle Love - and man, that was epic! I remember looking down at my first media pass, feeling like a total boss - AAA, baby! I thought I'd made it!

In the beginning photographers tend to shoot a bit of everything before finding their field. What were some of the subjects you shot before finding your niche?

Continued over...

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You’re constantly learning, evolving, and pushing the boundaries of your creativity. It’s like a window into a whole new world - one that has the power to change the way you perceive everything around you.

Do you have any standout moments or favourite performances that you've had the privilege to photograph? What made these experiences memorable for you?

I've been fortunate to capture some truly memorable moments. One standout experience was my involvement with the creative team for the Nambucca Valley Hub. Over 12 months, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph the natural beauty of the Nambucca Valley. The Valley Hub's mission of community support 28 COFFS COAST focus

resonated deeply with me, making it a perfect fit. Plus, it marked a significant milestone in my career as it was my first experience licensing my work - an exhilarating moment for any creative.

It’s amazing how photography has this innate ability to bring people together, sparking conversations and forging connections.

As for favourite performances, shooting Regurgitator at Bellingen’s Riversounds, a couple of years ago stands out vividly. It was one of their comeback gigs, and let me tell

you, I was in 90s kid froth overload!

It was hands down some of the most fun I’ve ever had.

The energy, the vibe - it was simply amazing!

What do you enjoy most about photography and what has it taught you about yourself?

What I love most about photography is that

aspects of myself that I may not have otherwise discovered.

What would be your dream shoot?

it's a never-ending journey of discovery.

You're constantly learning, evolving, and pushing the boundaries of your creativity.

It's like a window into a whole new world one that has the power to change the way you perceive everything around you.

Personally, it's helped me become more social and connected. It's amazing how photography has this innate ability to bring people together, sparking conversations and forging connections. Moreover, it's been a transformative tool for personal growth, encouraging me to open up and explore

Having heard about it while growing up, I was thrilled to finally be a part of it. Being the tutor for the youth photography course - Oh Shoot! - was a creative dream come true. Seeing my class sell out was truly awesome. What made it even more special I’d also love to was that it wasn't just capture some about photography - it was about embracing stunning New ourselves, gaining Zealand landscapes confidence to connect with my drone. It’s all with strangers, and about chasing those feeling comfortable to diverse experiences tell our own stories. I that nourish the can’t wait for the next passion. one! Rumour has it, the class has become the stuff of legend.

I'm all about embracing variety, and honestly, it's tough to pick just one dream shoot! The thrill of touring with a band or a major festival would be incredible. Still, I'd also love to capture some stunning New Zealand landscapes with my drone. It's all about chasing those diverse experiences that nourish the passion.

You recently took on the task of passing on your experience to others at Camp Creative. What was that experience like for you?

Camp Creative was an absolute highlight for me - it's an experience like no other.

Where can we find more of your work?

You can find more of my work on my website at jameslanderphotography.com.

If you're looking for shots from the gigs, swing by the Hoey's socials - there’ll be a photo wall there soon featuring a bunch of my work. Additionally, you can check out my collaboration with local artist Crystal Tate at Kaleidoscope. They’re super fun and would make the perfect Mother’s Day gift BTW! And of course, you can find me on all the socials @jameslanderphotography.

Thanks James.

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FILIPE WENCESLAU IS A BLACK BELT IN BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU, 5 TIMES STATE CHAMPION, 3 TIMES NATIONAL CHAMPION AND 3 TIMES PAN PACIFIC CHAMPION.. AND WE ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO HAVE HIM TEACHING BJJ HERE ON THE COFFS COAST!

FILIPE WENCESLAU

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ey Filipe, What initially drew you to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ for short), and how has your passion for the sport evolved over time?

I first came across Jiu Jitsu when I was 12 years old. A friend’s older brother was a brown belt and started teaching BJJ at my school. I did a few classes but never took it too seriously.

Throughout my teenage years most of my friends became Jiu Jitsu fighters so I was always exposed to the sport but my priorities were focused more around surfing.

I moved to Australia in 2005 and after living on the Gold Coast for 10 years my now business partner, JP, took me to a Jiu Jitsu class at Flow Martial Arts in 2015. I was going through a tough time and he thought it would be a good idea for me to try it out.

I immediately fell in love with the sport and started to train and compete as much as possible from that day.

Could you share a bit about your journey through the ranks of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

It’s been a great journey so far. Competing

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has always been my main focus. As a white belt I managed to win every comp I entered which motivated me to push harder at every training. I continued to compete regularly throughout each belt and am grateful to have won multiple championships. My most enjoyable and successful belt was brown. I held this for 2 years, won major Australian comps and began a new journey by opening PEAK Jiu Jitsu with my long standing friend and training partner JP. I have faced many challenges including injuries, life changes and problems in my personal life but Jiu Jitsu has always helped me deal with any hard times.

I've won a lot of tournaments over the years. Some major achievements include the 5x Queensland State Champion, 3x Australian National Champion and 3x Pan Pacific Champion as well as several smaller titles. Every tournament is special and has its own unique memory for me. A major highlight was when my professor, Paulo Polimeno, awarded me my blue belt on the podium of PAN PACIFIC in Melbourne.

Another was taking my daughter with me to Melbourne when I competed at the same competition as a brown belt. Having her there when I won was an amazing feeling and being able to take her on the podium with me to receive gold was a truly magical moment I will never forget.

This sport constantly puts us in uncomfortable situations and teaches us how to handle, think and react under pressure which I enjoy the naturally helps us deal dedication and with challenges in real discipline involved life.

What does your training look like leading up to a competition?

I like to train hard regardless of if I’m with comp prep, it You have just competing or not, gives me direction, i become a black however there is train better, focus belt in BJJ. How always an extra push more, eat better and long did this take leading into comps. as a result feel to accomplish and I incorporate extra better in general. where do you go weight and cardio from here? sessions as well as putting in extra hours It took me 9 years of on the mats.

I roll for longer periods and hard work, mat time and competition to include specifics training and shark-tanks to receive my black belt. Now my belt will increase my stamina and resistance. I enjoy never change, I have achieved what I always the dedication and discipline involved with wanted, to be able to fight the elite of Jiu comp prep, it gives me direction, I train Jitsu. On my second month as a black belt better, focus more, eat better and as a result I competed at AJP Nationals in Sydney and feel better in general. came 3rd. This gives me points towards being able to compete at the WORLD PRO in Abu Dhabi. It’s always been a dream to win at a world championship and I’m excited to be chasing this dream at the black belt level.

As a competitor of BJJ you have seen quite a lot of success so far. What have been some of your accomplishments and what would you say is the biggest highlight of your career so far?

Not only do you compete but you also train others in the sport. Can you share a bit about what you offer as a BJJ teacher?

JP and I opened PEAK Jiu Jitsu, Tormina in April 2023. It has been an awesome journey so far and we are truly grateful to our amazing members and the support we have received. We offer traditional style Jiu Jitsu that is different from anything in the

Coffs Harbour region. We teach all levels from beginners to advanced, men, women, kids as young as 4 as well as children with disabilities. Our main goal is to provide the highest quality training for our students in a safe, friendly and professional environment.

This includes specific training, competition classes, privates, fundamentals and seminars with world class athletes regularly throughout the year.

Whether you want to be a world champ, learn self defence or simply get fit, have fun and make new friends, we welcome everyone. In the short time PEAK has been operating we have created not just a gym but a growing community. We are excited to continue growing in 2024.

What do you enjoy most about working with the next generation of athletes?

I absolutely love working with the next generation of athletes, I can’t explain how rewarding it is to be teaching these kids and adults. Seeing them improving very fast, competing, pushing themselves and others is incredible. To see them doing what I’ve been doing for the past decade, and falling in love with this sport as I did is a constant reminder of how great Jiu Jitsu really is.

It’s more than just a sport, it becomes a lifestyle.

Where can people find out more or get in touch?

We are located at 3/15 Hi-Tech Drive , Toormina NSW 2452. People can also check out our website: www.peakbjj.com.au to find everything they need to know, book in a trial class or become a member. They can follow our socials: @PEAK_BJJ & PEAK JIU JITSU for updates and events. And of course if people prefer, they can call 0431 147 910 and chat with us directly. We invite everyone to come experience Jiu Jitsu at PEAK and see if it is the sport for you.

Thanks Filipe.

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focus_contributor.

PFLAG with SAM DAWSON

from Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays

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hat makes Pixaburst stand out from other photo booth companies?

any occasion with its unique photo experiences.

Pixaburst distinguishes itself by offering a fully virtual setup utilising green screen technology and an open-air design, all while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Unlike traditional photo booths that produce physical prints, our booth sends images directly to users’ mobile devices for instant sharing on social media. This not only eliminates paper wastage but also enhances the sharing experience. By being fully virtual, we can offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or innovation.

Our rental packages include full setup and pack-down, indoor or outdoor setup options (including a marquee setup for outdoor events), a choice of up to 10 virtual backgrounds, and a copy of all event images sent to the organisers post-event. We also offer additional customisations for a small fee, perfect for corporate events looking to promote their brand through branded photos shared on social media. This ensures that every photo reflects the event’s theme or branding, maximising engagement, and reach.

Why is it great to have Pixaburst at an event or party?

Pixaburst has been a hit at a wide range of events, from LGBTQIA+ dance parties and queer youth events to corporate functions and school celebrations like Grandparents Day. Our virtual photo booth adds an element of fun and excitement, allowing guests to create memorable moments with customisable backgrounds and interactive features like GIF and Burst images. Whether it’s capturing cherished memories at weddings or promoting brands at corporate events, Pixaburst enhances 32 COFFS COAST focus

What is included in the rental and how can you customise the booth to your event theme?

How can Pixaburst enhance Pride and Rainbow events?

As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, supporting Pride and Rainbow events is not just a passion but a commitment for us at Pixaburst. We believe in the power of visibility and celebration, and our photo booth offers a unique opportunity to amplify the voices and experiences of diverse communities.

Whether it’s capturing joyous moments at Pride events or creating inclusive spaces at Rainbow festivals, Pixaburst adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement. We made a commitment this year to give back to the local

community by offering our Photo Booth to one charity event per month for the whole of 2024 so we encourage LGBTQIA+ event organisers, as well as event co-ordinators of all other charity events in the Coffs Harbour area, to reach out and discover how Pixaburst can help make their event a memorable and impactful experience. Let’s work together to create unforgettable memories and spread joy in every corner of our community.

How can people get in touch to find out more?

To learn more about Pixaburst and our services, you can visit our website at www.pixaburst. com.au or you can contact us directly by phone at 0409 426 603. Additionally, we are expanding our presence into corporate events, festivals, trade shows, and expos between Brisbane and Sydney, showcasing our success as a local business and offering our unique photo experiences to a wider audience. If you are a local business launching a product or holding an event and looking for brand exposure through an organic social media reach, get in touch with us.

PFLAGcoffscoast (private, safe closed group) 0417 861 045 pflagcoffscoast@gmail.com

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Brasserie

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Nambucca Valley Phoenix is a community owned and operated social enterprise. We are a place where people come together to learn, earn and contribute in the joy of arts, food and community.

Through our enterprise we support people living with disability or experiencing disadvantage in the region.

We are delighted to announce the first edition of our very own Mid North Coast Disability Art Prize open exclusively to artists who identify as living with a disability.

Ability Arts Connect. This

project is the first of its kind to bring together artists with lived experience of disability who live on the NSW Mid North Coast (MNC). The aim of the project is to connect, celebrate, and inform artists, their carers and support organisations, through a two-day event offering art workshops, conferences, exhibition, and art prize to be held at Nambucca Valley Phoenix, in Bowraville NSW. Followed by a Winter Ball at Nambucca heads RSL. This event is funded by the Regional Arts Fund and Arts Mid North Coast.

At The Brasserie, we invite you to enjoy a delightful dining experience in a relaxed yet refined setting. Located within C.ex Coffs, our cozy ambiance and friendly service create the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal with family and friends.

Our menu showcases a delicious selection of dishes made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. From hearty mains to tempting desserts, there's something to satisfy every palate. Whether you're craving

a juicy steak, classic roast, or a wholesome vegetarian option, we have you covered.

Don’t forget to try our 2024 Focus Signature dish – Garlic and rosemary marinated Cowra lamb loin, served with a medley of roasted vegetables, steamed broccolini, confit of cherry tomatoes and a beetroot and red wine jus.

Come and join us at The Brasserie for a dining experience that promises great food and service with a smile. For more information visit cex.com.au.

Great food and service with a smile VIEW CURRENT MENUS AND TRADING HOURS 34 COFFS COAST focus

BIGGEST Morning Tea IS COMING TO SAWTELL RSL

Join the Sawtell Ladies Auxiliary on Thursday 23rd May from 10am for yummy treats and some games to raise much needed funds.

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ne in two Australians are diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85. We want to change that and we need your help.

Together we can help the Cancer Council raise funds towards vital cancer research, support services, prevention programs and advocacy. Sawtell RSL Women’s Auxiliary meet on the first Friday of the month at 2pm in the Sawtell RSL boardroom.

The RSL Women’s Auxiliaries were founded on fellowship and a desire to care for our communities.

The RSL Women’s Auxiliaries were founded on fellowship and a desire to care for our communities. This continues to exist to this day. Members enjoy the friendship of like-minded women. We are a voluntary organisation, dedicated to raising funds for the welfare of veterans of all wars and conflicts. Amongst our 16 Auxiliary Members, 5 are Life Members

who have dedicated at least 25 years to each of our fundraising efforts for our common goal. Encouraging

membership is the future of the Auxiliaries to carry on this good work for years to come. We welcome new members to join us.

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MEETINGS & EVENTS

YOUR AWARD WINNING PARTNER MEET | CONFERENCE | EXHIBITION | FUNCTION | NETWORK | EVENT

PACIFIC BAY RESORT CNR PACIFIC HWY & BAY DRIVE, COFFS HARBOUR, NSW 2450 (02) 6659 7000 sales@pacificbayresort.com.au 36 COFFS COAST focus

SATURDAY 29 JUNE SAWTELL RSL CLUB

Women Like Us

COMES TO SAWTELL RSL

‘Ellen is in a league of her own’ Ar j Ba rk er

$40

DOORS OPEN 7PM SHOW STARTS 8PM TICKETS AT: WWW.SAWTELLRSL.COM.AU

Women Like Us is the stand up comedy sensation created by Mandy Nolan and Ellen Briggs. With over 320 performances in cities and regional centres, big city theatres and dusty regional halls, Sawtell RSL is still one of their favourites and Saturday 29 June they’re back!

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n anomaly in their industry – kickass comics but middleaged women – they realised that it didn’t matter how good they were, they were always going to be behind the 8 ball in an industry that favours under 30’s and is dominated by blokes. After years of performing for women’s luncheons and fundraisers to audiences that fangirled them like crazy, they both decided that there was an audience out there for them – they just had to go and find them, and so began Women Like Us. ‘We’ve taken our show deep into the heart of Australia and to the stages of capital cities. We share the deeply funny stories of women smashing the ‘Women aren’t Funny’ myth forever and guess what, men find us funny too!’

The magic of the show is the

combination of talents. The big, warm, outrageous Nolan and the laid back charisma of sharp shooting, natural born storyteller Ellen Briggs.

‘We’ve had heaps of 5 star reviews from Australia’s premier comedy festivals’ says Ellen, ‘but the reviews we take to heart are the ones we get from audiences show after show. They keep turning up, some coming back for the 4th and 5th time.’

Women Like Us is stand up at its best. It’s about housework, chickens, love, feminism, small dogs, big butts, disappointment, resentment, sex when you’re drunk, fitbits, yoga farts and being a menopausal woman dealing with teenage angst.

They’re overworked, overweight and over it…

Women Like Us at Sawtell RSL on Saturday 29 June. Show 8pm. Tix $40 @ sawtellrsl.com.au COFFS COAST focus 37

artwalk RETURNS TO PORT MACQUARIE IN JUNE 2024

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rtwalk is returning to the Port Macquarie CBD for one spectacular night on Friday, 7 June in 2024, in what will be the event’s 8th year lighting up our community spaces in the CBD and by the riverfront. A record number of local talent will be on display at Artwalk 2024, with local artists, bands and creatives contributing across more than 100 different installations and events, with the event starting at 5pm through to 9pm for the one night in June.

local artisans, performers and creatives by providing a platform to bring their art to the public, and supporting our local businesses during winter.

Artwalk has grown to become the signature cultural arts event in Port Macquarie Hastings with exhibitions, illuminations, live performances, artists markets, workshops, creative installations and more. It’s become a much loved and anticipated event for all ages, and I encourage everyone in our community to embrace it and experience Artwalk in 2024.”

This year, the theme for 2023 was a huge success, Artwalk is ‘Coastal Nights’. with over 25,000 locals Many of our amazing local This year, the and tourists filling up the businesses are embracing theme for Port Macquarie streets Artwalk; with art, specialty Artwalk is ‘Coastal to experience the annual cocktails and even an Nights’. Many of spectacle. This year, the after party at Finnians to our amazing local Port Macquarie Hastings come and explore. Sand Council has committed businesses are Artist John Thiering returns to growing the event, off embracing and is teaming up with the back of year-on-year Artwalk.

Adam Hindshaw, who success, to provide our will take John’s sand art local community with a and animate it on a digital unique opportunity to display. West Clarence be part of something that is unlike any other in Street will transform into a street party with regional NSW. street circus acts, and we introduce a fantastic Samantha Hawkins, Community Events Officer from Port Macquarie Hastings Council, said: “Artwalk was created to activate Port Macquarie’s CBD in winter via engaging existing businesses and public artists. We are showcasing 38 COFFS COAST focus

new installation ‘Crateman’ by INDO, at Twotriplefour Restaurant.

Attendees can look forward to live music from various artists throughout the night on two different stages, as well as a lighting installation

in the Town Green fig tree, a Sunset Gallery projection and installation, and Pip Beale’s Rockpool, which is a must-see exhibition from one of our many talented local artists.

The Glasshouse is also open during the event, with a jazz bar upstairs - the perfect spot to rest your feet after exploring the art trail - as well as kids craft with Fortem, and working artists and exhibitions throughout. There’s plenty more spectacular displays of art and music to discover throughout the ‘Artwalk’.

As you make your way through the trail of art and lights, stop by one of the many food outlets, including many of our local cafes, restaurants, and bars, as well as a selection of food trucks and street food. Lucilla Marshall, Group Manager of Liveable Communities at Port Macquarie Hastings Council, said: “It is a great honour to work with our communities’ creatives and our local businesses to create this fabulous event that is so loved by our community. This year will be an amazing array of some truly unique experiences and never before seen elements. I hope everyone marks the date in their calendar and invites all their friends and families to see Port Macquarie come alive.”

Artwalk 2024 is a must-see experience as we light up the Port Macquarie CBD after dark; with a mix of local art, talent, food and music; a truly unique event to showcase Port Macquarie’s creative and cultural identity.

Keep up to date with all the developments in the lead up to Artwalk by following us on Facebook and Instagram @Artwalkpmq.

Artwalk is brought to you by Port Macquarie Hastings Council and proudly funded by NSW Government.

coastal nights

+ arts and culture + performers + installations + food trucks + music + markets artwalkpmq.com.au #artwalkpmq

FRIDAY 7 JUNE 5pm - 9pm

Port Macquarie CBD

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ALL ONE UNDER THE SUN

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hat is the All One Under the Sun Festival? The All One Under the Sun Festival is a FREE community event that celebrates cross-cultural Coffs Harbour through live music, dance, workshops, and a multitude of activities for all ages. The event will take place on Sunday, May 26th, from 9.30am to 3pm, and is an invitation to everyone here on Gumbaynggirr Country to share the beautiful Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden for the day. Funded by Multicultural NSW and the City of Coffs Harbour, with support from many local organisations and community groups, it's a fantastic opportunity for cultural immersion and to celebrate our rich multicultural community.

How successful was the festival in the past? The last edition of the festival, held two years ago, was a roaring success, drawing a crowd of over 7,000 attendees. It's a testament to the community's spirit and the festival's ability to bring people together in celebration of diversity and unity through artistic expression.

What can attendees expect at this year's festival? The festival will begin with Welcome to Country followed by local Jalay Jalay Gumbaynggirr dancers to lead us through a showcase of diverse cultural dance, live music and performance groups. The Beats and Feets workshop space will offer interactive workshops like tyre drum making, rapping, dance and drumming. Additionally, there are

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eco-friendly crafts and activities, cultural games, and an inflatable zone for children, ensuring fun for the whole family. The day will wrap up with a vibrant community drum parade finale, a spectacle not to be missed.

out; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in cultural experiences, meet new people, and be part of a community festival that celebrates diversity and unity. Volunteers can assist in various capacities, from event set-up and coordination to assisting with activity zones and performers. Head to our website: www.alloneunderthesun.org.au/ festival to learn more.

The festival coincides with the Open Day at Botanic Gardens across Australia and New Zealand including the Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden

Are there any special features at the festival this year? Yes, the festival coincides with the Open Day at Botanic Gardens across Australia and New Zealand including the Coffs Harbour Botanic Garden. Friends of the Gardens will lead tours of their seed bank initiative and ‘World tours’ of the International areas of the Garden.

For more information visit coffsbotanicgarden. com.au There's also the Common Ground space, where people can engage in storytelling, demonstrations and activities that foster deeper understanding and connections within our community. Attendees can also enjoy a showcase of short films and film clips highlighting the stories of cross-cultural Coffs Harbour and the launch of a brand new song, created by participants in the All One Under the Sun project.

How can people get involved in the festival? We're actively looking for volunteers who want to contribute to the success of the festival. Volunteering at the All One Under the Sun Festival is not just about helping

Can attendees participate in the performances or workshops? Absolutely!

Audience participation is a big part of the festival’s charm. Many of our dance and music performances encourage festival-goers to join in. Workshops are specifically designed for interaction, allowing attendees to learn new skills like drum making or rapping directly from skilled artists and performers. The immersive drumming parade encourages audience members to become the performers in the Grand Finale.

What is All One Under the Sun? The All One Under the Sun program is a youth-led remedy to racism campaign for the whole community, driven by young people and using the arts to promote inclusion, belonging, connection, education and empowerment. For more information head to: alloneunderthesun.org.au

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Rachel Caesar is the Performing Arts Manager at Bishop Druitt College, and has been heavily involved in bringing together their 2024 musical production of The Little Mermaid. The performance will showcase the hard work and dedication of the students, staff and the whole school community, spanning from the performers to those who have helped with costumes, props, lighting and sets.

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i Rachel. Can you introduce yourself to our readers and tell us about your role at BDC?

I am happy to introduce myself as the K-12 Performing Arts Manager here at Bishop Druitt College. In this role, I oversee and coordinate all aspects of the performing arts programs across Kindergarten to Year 12.

It is a rewarding position that allows me to support and nurture the creative talents of our students.

You have been involved in the current musical production the school is putting together, Can you give us a bit of an overview of the show?

Absolutely!

Bishop Druitt College is thrilled to present "The Little Mermaid" as our 2024 musical production. This enchanting show features the incredible talents of our secondary students, who will captivate the audience with their

acting, singing, and dancing skills.

First, we kicked off with auditions, where we were blown away by the immense talent displayed by our BDC students.

The musical tells the tale of Ariel, a mermaid who dreams of exploring the world above the sea. When she makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula to become human for three days in exchange for true love's kiss, Ariel embarks on a whirlwind adventure filled with romance, friendship, and self-discovery. However, time is ticking, and Ariel must navigate the challenges of the human world while facing the threat of Ursula's sinister plans.

First, we kicked off with auditions, where we were blown away by the immense talent displayed by our BDC students.

Following that, we've been dedicated to rehearsals to ensure every aspect of the performance shines.

Behind the scenes, our team has been hard at work. We've held numerous production meetings, often over coffee at local cafes, where we meticulously planned out lighting scenes and discussed all things musical.

"The Little Mermaid" promises to be a delightful and memorable production.

Additionally, we've hosted costume working

What has been some of the process of putting this show together?

on stage. Singing workshops and intensive

Putting together "The Little Mermaid" has been an exciting and collaborative process!

polishing our performances.

bees to ensure every character looks their best scene rehearsals have been essential in Continued over...

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Looking ahead, we're gearing up for tech runs during the holidays, where we'll integrate headsets, backdrops, and lights to bring the magic of "The Little Mermaid" to life on stage. It's been a labor of love, and we can't wait to share the fruits of our efforts with our audience!

Who has been involved in the background for things like costumes, sets etc?

ingenious props, while Amber Baldwin has lent her design skills to their creation.

Sandra Smith, Sally Crane, Hannah Johnson, Amber Baldwin, Chris Haynes, Karina Rothacker, and Holly Heather have all played integral roles in various aspects of bringing this fabulous show to fruition. Their dedication and passion have truly made "The Little Mermaid" a production to remember.

To kick start our journey, I sought guidance Can you share a bit about the students from local drama experts involved and how Jade Naidu from Naidu long they have been Theatre Company, working on this Teachers and Sharyn Messner from production? parents from our Liberty Theatre, and The journey began at the community have Belinda Lemair from end of last year with script generously assisted YAS, who provided read-throughs, setting invaluable tips and with costume the stage for the intensive advice. workshops ensuring work that followed. The

every detail is Behind the scenes, bulk of our rehearsals we've had an and preparations have meticulously crafted. outstanding team taken place in Term 1, contributing their with students aged from talents. Nanette 12- 17 devoting countless Backhouse has lent her expertise to design and hours to perfecting their roles, honing their create the stunning costumes that bring our skills, and collaborating as a cohesive team. characters to life. Teachers and parents from I am immensely grateful for their hard work, our community have generously assisted with talent, and the heart they've poured into every costume workshops ensuring every detail is aspect of the show. Their dedication shines meticulously crafted. through in every scene, song, and dance The captivating dance routines have been choreographed by a dynamic team including Bec Ross, our talented dance teacher, Hannah Johnson and myself. Additionally, Joel Blythe, our DT teacher, has constructed some of the 44 COFFS COAST focus

number, and we couldn't be prouder of the incredible journey they've embarked on to bring "The Little Mermaid" to the stage.

What do you hope the students get out of this experience?

My hope for the students involved in "The Little Mermaid" is that they walk away from this experience feeling a profound sense of pride and accomplishment. I want this production to be a cherished highlight of their school journey, something they fondly remember for years to come.

Through their involvement in the performing arts, I hope they've discovered newfound confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Stepping onto the stage, pushing beyond their comfort zones, and embracing the magic of theatre can be transformative experiences.

I hope this experience has ignited a lifelong passion for the performing arts within each student. Whether they pursue careers in theatre or simply carry the lessons learned from this production into their everyday lives, I hope they continue to nurture their creative talents and find joy in artistic expression.

What can the audience expect from this show?

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at "The Little Mermaid"! With all four shows sold out, audiences are in for a treat.

Expect an action-packed production filled with beloved songs that will have you tapping your toes and singing along. From the moment the curtain rises, you'll be transported into an underwater journey.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

You can watch the journey by following the Bishop Druitt College Facebook page www. facebook.com/bdccoffs

Their dedication shines through in every scene, song, and dance number, and we couldn't be prouder of the incredible journey they ve embarked on to bring The Little Mermaid to the stage.

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2024 COFFS HARBOUR

Be transported into a captivating world of vintage aviation, glamour and adventure at the 2024 Coffs Harbour Rescue Ball in support of your Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Saturday June 29 at C.ex Coffs Grand Auditorium.

D

ress to impress in your black tie best, with a touch of aviation themed flair to add to the festivities on what promises to be the coast’s gala event of the year.

Guests will be treated to an unforgettable night of festivities and entertainment. Enjoy a three-course meal and beverage package along with live music from Planet Groove.

Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in exciting raffles and auctions where all proceeds will go towards the region’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Tables of ten are $1,800, with individual tickets $190. Tickets are currently on sale via the website at www.rescuehelicopter. com.au/events or you can email ball@ rescuehelicopter.com.au

RESCUE BALL W E S T PAC R E S C U E HELICOPTER

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service was established in 1975 and operates five (AW139) helicopters from three forward operating bases in Belmont, Tamworth, and Lismore. Today the service delivers aeromedical pre-hospital support, search and rescue and inter-hospital transfers in support of the community from north of the Hawkesbury River through to the Queensland border and throughout the New England Northwest.

Along with the pilot and aircrew officer, every pre-hospital mission launches with a

C.EX COFFS HARBOUR

dedicated NSW Health doctor and a NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and, depending on the needs of the patient, the team may also be complemented by dedicated specialist nursing professionals.

The NSW Government, through the NSW Ministry of Health and NSW Ambulance, Westpac Bank, sponsors, business partners, and the community, collectively provide the funds to ensure that the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service can deliver world-class aeromedical emergency support services to the communities of Northern NSW.

3 COURSE MEAL DRINKS PACKAGE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 6.30PM - MIDNIGHT BLACK TIE $1800 FOR A TABLE OF 10, OR $190 PER PERSON

YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THIS EVENT! TICKETS AVAILABLE AT RESCUEHELICOPTER.COM.AU/EVENTS BALL@RESCUEHELICOPTER.COM.AU | 1800 155 155

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P O W E R

C O U P L E S

A S P E C I A L F O C US F E AT U R E

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P O W E R

C O U P L E S

MIKE AND VERONICA

H

HIBBARD

ow and when did you first meet and how long have you been together?

Veronica - Mike and I met almost 10 years ago and although the circumstances of our meeting are factual, both our renditions of the events seem very different when conveyed. Who launched for the first kiss as an example.

Let’s just say, we met in a very peculiar and unexpected way and fell in love. Whether it was love at first sight or a cosmic collision, we both just knew this was it from the very first hello.

Tell us about your business and the roles you play?

Veronica - While Mike runs a successful third generation building company Hibbard Homes, my business, Revive IV Wellness is very new. Being a hospital nurse for 20 years, I had never owned or planned to own a business. Having Mike’s help and experience in business, has, without question, helped to build my confidence as a business owner and, although our businesses are very different, it has given me tools and ideas to create something I’m very proud of today.

To ensure we are heading in the right direction we have a business meeting every week and go over all our goals and purposes regarding business, finance, family and each other. Here we put in firm agreements on what is successful and firm policy when we need to improve or fix things which weren’t

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aligned with the goal. By doing this formally, we know what we need to do individually that week as a positive step toward our goals.

This has also helped us to determine what our roles are to each other as husband and wife, right down to who handles the rubbish, the cooking, shopping, washing etc.

makes it fun. Of course there is finances, houses, cars and holidays mixed within the plan but they are sub-goals, it’s the main goals that keep us succeeding and happy in life.

Veronica - Our goals are shared goals to create a life together where everyone is doing Mike is a natural leader, and although we well, succeeding, and flourishing because make most decisions together, I like that he of what we have created as a couple and as leads our family, and he an example to others. does such a great job This is to change, in at it. a very positive way, A successfully the conditions of What are your shared prosperous and others’ lives by what goals and aspirations? spiritually fulfilled we have ourselves Mike - A few years ago loving couple who set as a goal. This is we commissioned a validate each other, our overall purpose business consultant and and are best friends – to inspire others by life coach (Jem Graham) with high ethics. the good example to help us plan out we set as a couple, our goals over a 5 year a family, business timeline. We came up owners and people. with the aspiration In saying all of this, we both share and have “To be recognised by many as a power couple agreed upon standards of ethical conduct who are wise and skilled in all aspects of life, and responsibility, not just of ourselves and delivered by inspiring forces of character”. each other but also everyone we meet. We And our end goal or achievement of our are very passionate about making change aspiration is and a difference, so we are involved as humanitarians to several campaigns such as “A successfully prosperous and spiritually drug education and awareness, human rights fulfilled loving couple who validate each and betterment to education to name a few. other, and are best friends with high ethics”.

These shared purposes really help drive us to There is planning, organisation and weekly succeed so we can further contribute to what to-do lists each week that need to be done we believe are important issues. so we don’t get off track, but it’s the journey Continued over.... and implementing small steps each day that

Our goals are shared goals to create a life together where everyone is doing well, succeeding, and flourishing because of what we have created as a couple and as an example to others.

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The fact we are now grandparents gives us that extra motivation to put our health and wellbeing right up there in importance so we can stay as active as possible for as long as possible for them.

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How do you support and motivate each other in all aspects of life?

Mike – we listen and adopt the viewpoint, thoughts and feelings of one another and decide what’s more beneficial for all involved. We have given up on selfish wants and needs as they don’t belong in our lives and only create drama. Every decision is discussed and agreed upon.

disagreements?

Veronica - Hahaha it’s interesting because we don’t often have conflicts or disagreements. I believe this is due to the agreements we have with goal planning, but if something does come up, we tend to keep communicating about it until it’s resolved.

We both convey our considerations or disagreements, and he usually realises he is wrong, and lets me have my way!

Veronica - We do this by always communicating about any problems which Mike – What disagreements?....We are a may come up and finding the solution power couple! Seriously, you don’t have without letting it linger on and on without to always be right or have the last say. one. We encourage a decision to be made Conflicts usually occur from others who and to not stay in want to stop us from confusion about it. succeeding along This, I feel, comes from our humanitarian We are always our shared beliefs about endeavours, sadly evolving and life and knowing we are these people exist, and accepting change, a team when it comes they are just ignored. and this is why we to our success.

What advice would How do you prioritise self-care and personal growth?

have expanded so quickly. We set new goals with the same planning and routine and life becomes easier and a lot more enjoyable.

you have for other couples in business?

Veronica - Self-care and personal growth are both priorities to us and we share this together. It’s probably the aspect of our lives we cherish the most. We enjoy working out together and looking after our health. The fact we are now grandparents gives us that extra motivation to put our health and wellbeing right up there in importance so we can stay as active as possible for as long as possible for them. We prioritize this and have it as part of our weekly schedule. We also have a study schedule to gain more knowledge on many aspects of life from mentors who have shown greatness and success by applying simple key principles of hard work, discipline, and a good moral code of conduct. However, taking part in charity events supporting humanitarian campaigns contributes the most to our personal growth.

Mike - Get a coach, have a plan and stick to it! Have firm agreement to meet once a week, no phones, no kids for 1 to 2 hours and see what needs to be done each week to achieve your goals. We both look forward to meeting every Sunday night to do this and it doesn’t just work, it brings the goals closer to present time.

We have done this for a couple of years now and already achieved a 5 year goal in under 2 years. We are always evolving and accepting change, and this is why we have expanded so quickly. We set new goals with the same planning and routine and life becomes easier and a lot more enjoyable.

If you are a couple in business together or have separate careers with children and you want to see our routine and goal planning, please email us michaelh@hibbards.com. au. We are more than happy to share it throughout our community.

How do you handle conflicts and

Thanks Mike and Veronica.

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AND

CATHERINE T H E B AT T E R Y B OYS , EAST COAST GOLF CARTS, HQB ACCOUNTS

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other in all aspects of life Our non-negotiable is that family and health will always come first, but in the same breath we respect each other and give each other the space that is required to do what we love on a daily basis.

We understand that sometimes work pressures can mean that our focus shifts, however that is never a negative for us, we just make the time outside of work count when we have it.

T

ell us about your businesses and the roles you play

How do you separate work time and home time and balance it all?

We aren’t sure that anyone really balances it all as it fluctuates depending on where you need to be at any given time. We Mat looks after The Battery just make it work. It feels effortless for us as there aren’t any expectations on what Boys, East Coast roles need to be Golf Carts and the Our nonfulfilled, it’s more just newly established negotiable is getting in and getting TBB Automotive. that family and the job done whether Along with supplying health will always that be family, home batteries to his come first, but in the or work. customers, he also same breath What advice do looks after their we respect each you have for other golf carts which other and give each couples in business has recently seen us expand nationally.

Cath is one of 4 partners at HQB Accountants Auditors Advisors assisting clients with all their taxation compliance and business advisory needs.

other the space that is required to do what we love on a daily basis.

What are your shared goals and aspirations Our goals and aspirations are quite aligned in that we both set out to help people. Mat, with powering all their lifestyle needs and Cath by helping clients manage compliance and their businesses that allow them to enjoy their lifestyle.

How do you support and motivate each

Learn to be able to separate work from home as best you can even though sometimes this isn’t practical. When you are at work focus on work and when you are at home be present at home. Vent and listen when you need to, but don't allow work to consume your life and don’t sweat about the small stuff. Our idea of life is very much, ‘we aren’t here for a long time so make the daily count!’

How can we get in touch Head to our websites Www.thebatteryboys.com.au www.hqb.com.au COFFS COAST focus 53

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RIKKI AND STEVAN

CETINICH

H

ow and when did you first meet and how long have you been together?

We used to bump into each other at the Coramba Hotel where I was working. We have a running joke that he stalked me for a few weeks before I gave in to go on a date with him.

We have been together for 15 years and were married in Bali 8 years ago surrounded by friends and family.

Tell us about your business and the roles you play? Five years ago we decided we would like more time with our family, (so we thought), and had a goal to succeed in owning businesses in the careers we already had.

Five years on and we have built our businesses from the ground up and both are thriving.

Elite Pool Care specialises in Swimming Pool & Spa Maintenance, Equipment Installations & Repairs, with a focus on commercial and elite pools such as luxury homes and holiday rentals.

We have 2 full time servicemen and Stevan does the equipment installations and technical repairs.

Without a Hitch Event Planner & Stylist is an Australian award-winning business that offers

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Event & Wedding planning, coordination & styling. We travel from Yamba to South West rocks as well as contract to council, private venues and community events.

What are your shared goals and aspirations?

Contributing to the community and finding ways to give back to society whether through volunteering, or advocating for causes we both care about. Stevan is the President of the OV Axemen RLFC and spends time with the Junior Club coaching and mentoring youth.

yourself with like-minded people.

How do you separate work time and home time and how do you balance it all?

We share responsibilities!

It’s not easy having 2 businesses, 3 young boys We share and volunteering within responsibilities! the community. We It’s not easy having 2 divide tasks fairly and are businesses, 3 young willing to pitch in when boys and volunteering needed. We are each within the community. other’s biggest support We divide tasks fairly and cheer leader. We also and are willing to pitch seek support from friends, family, or professionals in when needed. and we do all this with a smile on our face.

I work with community organisations in events such as being the Event Coordinator for the Glenreagh Timber Festival and I also volunteer with Coffs Coast Autism who provide support for families with children on the spectrum.

As a mother with a child on the spectrum, I understand how important it is to surround

How can we get in touch? Check out our socials, email or call us directly.

Without A Hitch Event Planner waheventplanner@gmail.com Phone 0403 425 906 Elite Pool Care coffscoastepc@gmail.com Phone 0431 260 336

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SAM AND SHANNEN V I K I N G L AW N / TA N G L E D H A I R

PAUL AND NICOLE T H R I V E

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ow and when did you first meet and how long have you been together? We met on Plenty of Fish in 2021 and have been inseparable for 3 years.

Together we have 5 kids, 2 dogs and 2 businesses, making it a very busy household.

Tell us about your business and the roles you play?

Shannen owns and runs a local home-based hair extension salon with her own range of hair care products and offers local event and private birthday packages alongside The Smiley Squad.

Sam works full time as a machine operator whilst also running his own local lawn care and property maintenance business. Servicing from Nambucca to Woolgoolga, he offers his services to all local residents with a special interest in being able to help those who need it most, specifically NDIS clients, aged care and the injured.

What are your shared goals and aspirations? Our ultimate goals are to build our dream home and we want to expand

and grow our businesses. We want to be able to provide our family with the absolute best life.

Family is our number ONE! How do you support and motivate each other in all aspects of life? We compliment each other and the things one of us can’t do the other handles.

Both at home and in each other’s businesses we work together as a team.

How do you prioritise self-care and personal growth? We try to make sure that every month we have at least one date night.

Whether its something small like takeaway and drinks with videogames or going away for the weekend to a concert, we always make sure we spend that quality time with each other.

How can we get in touch?

Viking Lawn & Property Maintenance @Viking.lawn vikinglawn@hotmail.com Tangled Hair Extensions @tangled_hair_extensions_coffs tangledhairextensions.com.au

H

ow and when did you first meet and how long have you been together? Paul and I have been together almost 20 years and opening the studio together was our first opportunity to own a business and work together - we really jumped in the deep end!

Tell us about your business and the roles you play?

We moved from Brisbane in November 2016 and opened the Coffs studio in February 2017.

We opened a studio in Grafton in March last year and are both teaching and doing the majority of the admin across both studios.

We had really different ideas about what running the business was like when we first opened, so it took a little while to find our flow. I think we work really well together now because we tend to over communicate – we talk everything through to ensure we are across all facets of the business.

How do you support and motivate each other in all aspects of life? We back each other to go for it - whatever

P I L AT E S

the goal is, personally or professionally, we know if we tackle it together, we will get what we want or learn a really great lesson!

How do you prioritise self care and personal growth?

When it comes to self-care, we are really supportive of how we differ in these areas. I love a good book and a snooze on the couch whereas Paul doesn’t mind the odd video game! We go for walks most mornings which helps us set expectations for the day and manage our schedules.

Personal and professional growth is something we are both really passionate about and we are forever working towards being a better version of ourselves. We both work with business coaches and do professional development courses together which allows us to spend time together working on our business to ensure our business is going in the direction we want it to.

How can we get in touch?

Thrive Pilates - MidNorth Coast @thrivepilates_mnc studio@thrivepilates.com.au COFFS COAST focus 55

SPOIL MUM SUNDAY 12th MAY Find the perfect gift | Say it with dinner Surprise her with jewellery | Pamper her

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#Everything you need

Women’s Health

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Coffs Pilates Studio - Lauren Reid

COFFS

PILATES Lauren Reid

C

an you tell us about your business? We are a boutique Pilates studio and wellness sanctuary, specialising in Reformer semi private sessions, with a maximum of 5 people a session. We are a team who are very experienced and passionate about enhancing health and well-being through classes, state of the art infrared saunas, remedial massage and natural facelift facials!

Who does the studio cater for? Your Pilates journey may be just beginning and you want personalised attention to be able to learn the foundations of Pilates and the Reformer.

You might be suffering from chronic pain, rehabilitating an injury, an athlete or have just 58 COFFS COAST focus

had a baby or have one on the way.

Whatever your ability, experience or condition, our trainers can tailor any Coffs Pilates class to have you moving your body with confidence to achieve your goals.

We have 5 people per session to allow us to discuss your needs, get to know your body and tailor the classes to fit your needs.

We cater for all ages and injuries in our classes and treatments - (under 18s must attend classes with a guardian).

How is the studio different from big classes? And how many people per class?

Whilst some studios or gyms offer Pilates in large groups, we prefer to personalise our sessions.

We have 5 people per session to allow us to discuss your needs, get to know your body and tailor the classes to fit your needs. It's not just a matter of one size fits all with our trainers!

Not only that, 4 of our instructors (Lauren - our founder, Liz, Gretel and Kristy) have been teaching for over 15 years each and this means we are very capable of teaching all injuries confidently. Lauren, Liz, Lizzie and Kristy have all worked in a physio setting and can cater for all ages, levels and conditions.

All 8 of our instructors have completed

We will have you working to your challenge zone and always have your posture type, lifestyle, goals and experience in mind when planning your lesson.

comprehensive certifications in the Pilates method and are actively involved in continuing education.

Our 3 massage therapists and facialists have all been passionately immersed and working in the industry for a combined 37 years!

Is it just rehab? Absolutely not! We have very challenging classes if your body calls for it! We offer jumpboard classes (for those who have cardio and weight loss/ toning goals), we can add weights, resistance bands, magic circles and teach dynamic sessions to cater for the most active of clients! We will have you working to your challenge zone and always have your posture type, lifestyle, goals and experience in mind when planning your lesson. We can help you achieve your individual goals by really getting to know you! And this is why we find 5 people per session to be the magic number!

Can Pilates help with specific conditions

such as osteoporosis? Yes! If the person teaching the session is knowledgeable and experienced enough they will know to avoid flexion and flexion into rotation for example and consult with you as to how you're doing with your bone density testing etc. We pride ourselves on going over and above to help you with safe, thorough screening and consultation. If you want to dive even deeper, we offer 1:1 postural assessments and at home programming to complement attending sessions and or replace them, depending on your needs. We recommend these to all of our community just as you'd get regular dental checkups.

What’s your favourite part of the work you do? The profound impact it has on our client’s confidence, longevity, strength, resilience and self esteem! There’s not a day I wake up where I don’t feel like teaching!

I love that we create sessions uniquely tailored to each individual.

I absolutely LOVE the challenge of problem solving injury rehab and getting results and huge hugs from people telling me I’ve positively changed their life.

There’s nothing better than improving people’s mental, physical and emotional health! Our clients become family and we have a really special bunch of people here on the beautiful Coffs Coast. And another thing we boast is we have the BEST team, I pinch myself daily how incredible they are! Together we create a home away from home for our community.

How can we get in touch?

Address: 54 James Small Drive Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Phone: 0415 361 379 Email: info@coffspilates.com.au Website: www.coffspilates.com.au COFFS COAST focus 59

endometriosis A N D

P E L V I C

P A I N

C L I N I C

JEN WILLIAMS

LISA SING

BECKY VASCHAK

Health Promotions Officer

Endometriosis/ Pelvic Pain Clinic Coordinator (Women’s Health Nurse)

Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) and Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician (CEDC)

W

hat do you enjoy about your role? I love working at the Women’s Health Centre as I get to work with amazing women every day. My role involves planning and organising events and programs focused on educating and supporting women in various aspects of health. We offer a range of weekly classes such as Chaired, Hatha and Prenatal Yoga, Breastfeeding Workshops and a new Sound Healing Class will be commencing in June.

What is your involvement in the Endo/ Pelvic Pain Clinic? As a Health Promotions Officer, I coordinate education and support groups and resources for women living with endometriosis and pelvic pain. In honour of March being Endometriosis Awareness month, we held an educational event for women and their partners centred around endometriosis and pelvic pain. The day was a great success, and we aim to organise more events like this in the future. Be sure to visit our website for upcoming education, groups and events.

Why is it important for women to have specialised care for EPP? Specialised care provides valuable information and support to clients navigating these conditions. This focussed care empowers women to manage their health more effectively and improves their overall quality of life.

What is your #1 tip for women? As women, we often put the needs of others before our own, but to effectively look after others we need to prioritise our own self-care first.

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W

hat do you enjoy about your role? Having a women’s health background my focus is being with the women. I feel very privileged to be able to provide a safe space at the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre for women to share their stories.

What is your involvement in the Endo/Pelvic Pain Clinic (EPP)? I am predominantly the women’s first point of contact for the EPP Clinic. During their initial appointment I discuss and answer questions about the clinic, obtain social, emotional and medical history related to their EPP journey. Additionally, I collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals such as GPs and Psychologists to facilitate multidisciplinary care and streamline referral pathways. I also assist our Health Promotions Officer, Jen, to organise EPP events.

Why is it important for women to have specialised care for EPP? EPP affects women’s overall well-being, encompassing both physical and emotional health.

Although there is no definitive cure, a multidisciplinary team approach that incorporates specialised care offers women the most effective and comprehensive treatment options.

What is your #1 tip for women? Trust yourself, if you have a concern about your body then seek help with a health care provider that you feel listened too.

W

hat do you enjoy about your role? I love connecting with people and giving them the space to explore their beliefs and relationship with food and their bodies. People often view dietitians as “food police” and tend to come to their first session feeling anxious they will be judged regarding their food choices. I have a more “all foods fit” philosophy and take a more inclusive and compassionate approach to nutrition and overall wellbeing.

What is your involvement in the Endo/ Pelvic Pain (EPP) Clinic? As part of the EPP Clinic, I work as a dietitian one day per fortnight, contributing to the multidisciplinary care team that provides a holistic approach to those with endometriosis or pelvic pain.

Why is it important for women to have specialised care for EPP? From a nutrition perspective, diet isn’t a cure for endometriosis and there is no “perfect” diet for it either.

However, dietary adjustments can help manage gut symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve overall wellbeing. Each person’s experience with endometriosis is unique, making an individualised approach – especially regarding diet – essential.

What is your #1 tip for women? Seek out support from an Accredited Practising Dietitian before making any changes to your diet to receive an individualised plan tailored to your needs.

DR LAURA BRIEN

W

Clinical Lead GP

hat do you enjoy about your role?

also part of the team putting this clinic together to offer a range of services that will benefit women with Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain.

Listening to, and working with the amazing Why is it important for women of our community; to women to have specialised empower care for EPP? them in Endometriosis their health I am one of and pelvic pain journey. I am are chronic the GPs that passionate conditions that see women as they about can affect all progress through women’s aspects of a our clinic. I learn health and am woman’s life. of their journey so so fortunate Specialised far and we work to work as care from a together to craft part of an multidisciplinary a plan to manage outstanding team is their condition team at the essential so that Women’s moving forward. she can feel Health Centre. empowered What is your involvement in the Endo/ Pelvic Pain Clinic?

in her health.

There is so much more to it than only medication and surgery.

I am one of the GPs that see women as they progress through our clinic. I learn of their journey so far and we work together to craft a plan to manage their condition moving forward. I am

What is your number 1 tip for women?

Trust your instinct because you are your own best advocate. You are strong and you deserve great care.

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Coffs Harbour Breast Clinic

Women’s

Health

SPECIALISING

Often we forget what good health feels like, and we will accept a vague collection of symptoms such as exhaustion, foggy thinking, stubborn weight gain, difficulty sleeping, and craving coffee, sugar and salt. Or maybe put up with symptoms of hormonal imbalance such as heavy or irregular periods, chronic and debilitating period pain, sluggish metabolism, bloating, acne, low libido, anxiety, constipation or night sweats.

It is all too easy to put it down to either being busy, stressed, or even ageing. But it really doesn’t have to be that way. If you feel like your hormones are running your life, then you may need support.

BREAST CANCER SURGERY RECONSTRUCTION BREAST REDUCTION AUGMENTATION BREAST LIFT

GP REFERRAL REQUIRED

Coffs Harbour Breast Clinic 15 Duke Street, Coffs Harbour coffsharbourbreastclinic.com (02) 5642 4001 coffsharbourbreastclinic 62 COFFS COAST focus

Taking a holistic, caring and personal approach, I can work with you to discover the underlying cause and then support you with targeted herbal and nutritional medicine to achieve hormonal harmony.

Josie Carin, Naturopath BHsc. (Complementary Medicine) Adv. Dip. Naturopathy Certified Metabolic Balance® Practitioner

focus_contributor.

Embrace Your Journey

BODY SOLUTIONS

with KIARA LINDSAY

F R O M P L AT I N U M B E A U T Y AND SKIN CLINIC

Thriving in Every Stage of Life

A

s women, our journey through life is marked by a series of transformations, each stage bringing its own set of joys and challenges. Yet, as we navigate the passage of time, it’s natural to encounter moments of reflection and adjustment, particularly when it comes to our physical At the well-being.

opportunity for growth and self-discovery?

This stage of life often coincides with a newfound sense of freedom, children grown and independent, leaving us with the space to rediscover ourselves. Life restarts at 40, and it’s your time to shine! So, instead of fixating on “anti-aging,” what if we redefined our approach to “aging-well” - nurturing and honouring our bodies at every stage of the journey?”

core of this

After hitting 40, the At the core of this transformative shift realities of aging transformative shift lies a lies a profound can sometimes feel profound understanding: understanding: our daunting. We may find our value and allure value and allure ourselves grappling extends far beyond the extends far beyond with changes in our constraints of time. This the constraints of bodies that seem stage of life presents time. beyond our control, an ideal opportunity to weight fluctuations, reconsider societal norms shifts in skin texture, and delve into a deeper and diminished energy levels. It’s easy to fall understanding of our bodies, working in into the trap of comparing our present selves harmony with them rather than against them. to the image of what we once were, lamenting It’s about celebrating the wisdom that comes the loss of our former vitality. with age, honouring the stories etched into the But what if we shifted our perspective?

What if, instead of viewing aging as a battle to be fought against, we embraced it as an

lines of our faces, and embracing the unique journey, we understand that navigating these changes can sometimes feel overwhelming.

That’s where we come in. Our clinic specialises in providing holistic solutions for women seeking to embrace their journey of aging-well.

Rather than subscribing to the conventional approach of extreme dieting, endless gym sessions, or invasive procedures, we offer refreshing alternatives.

Through our personalised treatments, we empower women to embrace their evolving selves with confidence and grace. Welcome to the NEW era of “aging-well,” where state-ofthe-art technologies are meticulously crafted to address hormonal weight gain, rejuvenate skin elasticity, and refine body contours.

With personalised wellness plans aimed at enhancing your overall well-being naturally, we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

At Platinum Beauty and Skin Clinic, we provide complimentary consultations where you can meet with our experts and discover how we can assist you in embracing and loving the body you’re in at any age. More information can be found on our website www.platinumbeautycoffscoast.com alternatively, reach out to us by calling 0438 473 588.

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Courtney Nolan started her career as a Police Officer, but has changed direction and is now offering her services as a Relationship and Intimacy Consultant working with NDIS participants to support, empower and educate them. Having conversations that many shy away from in a clear and relatable way is something she’s striving to normalise.

ourtney

NOLAN

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H

ey Courtney, you used to be a Police Officer but now you’re a Relationship and Intimacy Consultant, can you explain exactly what you do?

specific sensory preferences and find sex to be a minefield of sensory overload. Helping clients work out what turns them off and what turns them on is super interesting.

It sounds very boujee I know - I work in various ways so chose a title that broadly covers most of what I do. I left the Police Force and wanted to have more freedom with my job but still wanted it to be interesting and exciting.

I want people to know this information is available and that it’s perfectly normal to be interested in various sex topics, it’s fascinating and quite literally the very thing required for us to be conceived.

I work with NDIS clients to improve their relationships and sex related goals - this could be anything from building friendship skills, to helping create dating profiles, to education around anatomy, menstrual cycles and safer sex and consent.

I want people to know sex isn’t just for procreation - it can be for any number of things, e.g. a super fun version of cardio if joining a run club isn’t your vibe, or as stress relief - fantastic to prevent burnout. A great mood booster if you’re feeling flat or an exciting way to express your creative side. It can be playful and fun which a lot of relationships depend on to avoid just becoming ‘flatmates’.

What is the most fundamental thing you wish all people knew about sex education?

I host workshops to groups of clients usually centred around a common theme, whether that be online safety or building boundaries, I’m open to all or training for Support topics because Services who are sexuality education eager to upskill their requires you to be staff to have more vulnerable enough to supportive and inclusive open up, I’m not here conversations with their to yuck your yum clients.

How do you remain professional when clients tell you something funny?

Depends on what it is, if they want to have a laugh about a faux pas - unless of course it’s What’s the most then I'm all for it. If it’s unsafe or illegal. That interesting topic you something serious and would be my line. enjoy coaching on? they want to unpack what went ‘wrong’ then Oh gosh I love it all and I'm also sweet with that.

I go through phases of My goal is to help people feel safe enough with what interests me the most. I love learning me, that they feel comfortable being vulnerable from my clients about topics they are curious and open to discussing all the things they want about and usually consume everything I can to. find on it. Within a relationship context I'm always interested in learning people’s unique How do you think relationship and sex communication styles and preferences within specific support helps people living with a their relationship. I love helping people disability? understand their partner and get comfy People are at such different stages of chatting to their partner about their unique their education when it comes to sex and needs in relationships. relationships, for some people the idea of sex Neurodivergence is fascinating, how people seems brand new, so I start with basics and process information differently and how we begin by teaching anatomy and what the can work together to verbalise the different mechanics of sex can entail. ways information needs to be communicated in For others, they may be sexually active but relationships when people aren’t eurotypical or can’t see what all the fuss is about and simply need extra support, is fantastic. want support working out what they find I also love working with people who have pleasurable.

Life changes for my clients when they realise how they can pursue relationships if they want to, they can actually be in charge of their sexual experiences and not feel it’s impossible for them to ever be sexual or in a romantic loving relationship if that’s their goal.

Are there any topics off limits when working with you?

To be honest not really, I don’t claim to have heard it all but sheesh i’ve seen and heard a lot, if I don’t know what something is or it’s a kink I’m not familiar with, I’ll always let my client know and then afterwards research the heck out of it (for example, a vacuum bag fetish was a new one).

I’m open to all topics because sexuality education requires you to be vulnerable enough to open up, I'm not here to yuck your yum - unless of course it’s unsafe or illegal.

That would be my line.

What’s your advice to anyone thinking about exploring their sexuality?

Do it! If you’re curious about things, then get comfortable with the “we shall just see how things goes” attitude. Seek support from people who won't judge or shame your preferences, research things if they aren't spoken about enough around you and reach out if you want to be pointed in the right direction for something specific that I don’t offer.

What can people expect when working with you?

A verrrryyy unique experience. It’s not therapy - it’s a holistic approach to relationships and sex with you in the driver's seat and me riding shotgun teaching you different things. If you’re thinking about it and want to know more about the goals we can work on send me an email or message and we can chat further. If we aren’t a good fit and you don’t feel the spark then don't stress - no hurt feelings I promise. X Where can we find out more about yourself and what you do? info@courtneynolan.com www.courtneynolan.com 0434 706 209 courtney__nolan COFFS COAST focus 65

The Voices of Tomorrow: How headspace Coffs Harbour’s Youth Reference Group is Making a Difference The YRG at headspace Coffs Harbour isn’t just a committee; it's a platform for empowerment and change. Comprising young people from the local area, the group works hand-in-hand with headspace staff to ensure that the services provided resonate with and effectively support the mental health needs of young people living in Coffs Harbour. From organising workshops to participating in community outreach, the YRG serves as a crucial bridge between youth and mental health professionals.

The YRG’s influence extends beyond just service improvement; they are actively involved in breaking down barriers and fostering a community where talking about mental health is normalised and celebrated.

GET INVOLVED! Joining the Youth Reference Group offers an opportunity to: •

Develop leadership and advocacy skills.

•

Work directly with mental health professionals to design services that cater to young people.

•

Help destigmatise mental health challenges among your peers.

•

Connect with other motivated young individuals who are committed to positive change.

Be a part of something bigger. Be a voice for your generation. Join the headspace YRG today!

Little St, Coffs Harbour NSW (02) 6652 1878 45-53 Monday-Friday 9am-5 pm

To learn more about the Youth Reference Group or to apply, please visit QR code:

headspace

A

Amy & John J

my, could you tell us felt it would really benefit my a bit about yourself, perspective on community, build including what my knowledge and awareness, hobbies or interests and allow me to utilise this you have outside of the Youth knowledge and awareness Reference Group (YRG)? through my work with youth and Outside of YRG, I am a dance as a future nurse. teacher, nursing student and SCU For other youths considering ambassador. In my work in both joining the YRG, what would dance teaching and ambassador you tell them about the work, I get opportunities to interact and I feel this with kids and experiences group allows school leavers the group aims youth to be heard and assist and to offer? Why and allows us to guide them should they throughout put new ideas into get involved? their youth and a comfortable space I feel this group progression that is heard. allows youth to into their adult be heard and years. I also allows us to have a passion for nursing, which put new ideas into a comfortable I am currently studying in my space that is heard. It also brings second year. together like-minded people with What inspired you to join YRG, and what do you expect to gain from being a part of this group? I was inspired to join the YRG to be able to be connected with people my age throughout the community and listen to their perspectives and thoughts. I also

whom you can build relationships and connections. I also feel people have the opportunity in this group to experience events and opportunities that will allow them to feel like they're making a difference and being part of the community in some way.

ohn, could you tell us a bit about yourself, including what hobbies or interests you have outside of the Youth Reference Group (YRG)? Hello everyone, my name is John Palencia. I'm 22 years of age and am currently working as a new graduate mental health nurse.

I've been calling the Coffs Coast home for the past two years, but I grew up in Tweed Heads and am originally from the Philippines.

Like many young people, I'm doing my best to find purpose and meaning in my life, but I've recently learned that so long as I'm learning as much as I can and imbuing my actions with good intentions, then there's really no wrong way to go about it! Outside of my time with Headspace, I enjoy exercising, drinking tea, and spending quality time with loved ones. I'm also a big fan of 'Game of Thrones' and 'Avatar' (both the blue people movies and the animated series).

I would love to help other young people in whatever way I can so we can create a better tomorrow.

If you're a young person living in the Coffs Coast area, feel free to say hello! I'd be delighted to meet with you.

Joining the YRG: What motivated you to become a part of the Youth Reference Group, and what are your hopes for what the group can achieve in Coffs Harbour? Ever since 'coming out of my shell' towards the end of high school, I've been increasingly interested in being involved in my community and adding value to others. This interest has led me to be part of the Youth Reference Group and take on other roles such as the 2023 North Coast Representative for the Regional Youth Taskforce which involved providing policy advice to community organisations, and the NSW Youth Minister. By being part of the Youth Reference Group, I hope to make our headspace Coffs Harbour more accessible, youth-centred, and youth-led. I'd also like to help make it a centre where young people feel like they belong and receive the help they need - all in one place.

COFFS COAST focus 67

VOLUNTEERING Unlocking

A

the

Power

LIFELINE NORTH COAST’S CALL TO ACTION

nyone else sometimes feel the pressures and pace of life quicken by the day?

Finding moments of purpose and connection can be like stumbling upon an unexpected treasure. Did you know though?... Nestled within our community lies an invaluable treasure trove waiting to be discovered: volunteering.

making a tangible difference in the lives of those around us. From running our shops, to providing crucial crisis support services, our dedicated volunteers form the backbone of our mission to create an Australia free of suicide.

Imagine being part of a vibrant community where friendships flourish, skills are honed, and every action contributes to a greater cause. That’s the essence of volunteering with Lifeline North Coast.

As National Volunteer Week approaches, Lifeline North Coast is proud to champion the spirit Here are four compelling reasons to join our of giving back and team: we invite you to join Community Connection: us in celebrating the Volunteering with Lifeline Imagine being extraordinary impact North Coast isn’t just part of a volunteers have on our about lending a helping vibrant community community. May 20th hand; it’s about creating where friendships to May 26th, 2024, is connections with likeflourish, skills are National Volunteer Week, minded people who share honed, and every the theme “Something your passion for making a action contributes to for Everyone,” difference. a greater cause. highlighting the diverse Skill Development: passions and talents that Whether you’re interested every volunteer brings to in retail, warehousing, our the table. crisis line or helping out at events, volunteering The Heart of Lifeline North Coast: with us offers valuable opportunities to learn Volunteers in Action new skills and expand your horizons.

At Lifeline North Coast, volunteers are the Meaningful Impact: Your contribution as a lifeblood of our organisation, driving change and 68 COFFS COAST focus

of

Lifeline North Coast volunteer directly supports our local Crisis Line call centre, providing vital resources for individuals in crisis and promoting mental wellbeing in our community.

Sense of Purpose: Purpose can sometimes feel elusive, volunteering with Lifeline North Coast offers a tangible way to make a meaningful difference and positively impact the lives of others in our local community.

SCAN HERE to get involved or keep in touch

OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED Join the Push-Up Challenge or head to Fluro Friday: Uniting for Mental Health As part of our commitment to mental health advocacy, we’d love for you to join us in the Push-Up Challenge or come to Fluro Friday, where community, connection, and conversation take us from talking about what makes a difference, to actually doing it.

The Push-Up Challenge, running from June 5th to June 28th, 2024, is a free mental health and fitness event aimed at raising awareness and funds to support mental health services across Australia, including Lifeline North Coast locally. By completing 3,249 push-ups, individually or as a team, over 24 days, participants symbolically honour the lives lost to suicide while promoting better mental health for all.

Or you can join us every Friday at 6:30 am for Fluro Friday at Jetty Beach Coffs or Woopi Beach, in partnership with OneWave, Coffs Coast Suicide Prevention Initative and Headspace, where we harness the healing power of saltwater therapy and community connection to spark conversations about mental health.

Together, we can break down stigma, foster support networks, and create a safer, more inclusive space for those navigating mental health challenges.

Here’s our call to action… will YOU embrace the Power of Volunteering?

As National Volunteer Week approaches, let’s lean into the power of volunteering.

Whether you’re seeking a sense of purpose, looking to make new connections, or simply eager to give back to your community,

Lifeline North Coast welcomes you with open arms.

To learn more about volunteering opportunities with Lifeline North Coast and Fluro Friday events or to register for the Push-Up Challenge, scan one of the QR codes in this article, visit our website, follow our socials or give us a call! (02) 6651 4093.

Together, we can make a difference, one act of kindness at a time.

Join us in unlocking the potential of volunteering and together, let’s build a brighter, more resilient future for all.

scan here to register

COFFS COAST focus 69

focus_contributor.

W H A T

I S

AGORAPHOBIA?

Counselling CON V ER S ATIONS

with JULIE THOMAS

F R O M BE YO N D T H E S U R FAC E CO U N S E L L I N G

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goraphobia is an anxiety disorder that causes excessive fear of certain situations. It may cause an intense fear of becoming overwhelmed, trapped, or unable to escape and get help. Agoraphobia often starts as mild anxiety about a particular event, situation or place that increases over time. Agoraphobia may have an impact on attending functions in unfamiliar places, public transport, enclosed or large open spaces, or places outside of the home.

We all experience anxiety in our lives. However, an anxiety disorder causes excessive worry that impacts daily life activities. When challenged by agoraphobia the fear is of the physical, thoughts and sensations, often of panic, losing control or embarrassing oneself. Often this fear leads to people unwilling to visit certain places, situations, or events just in case it triggers anxiety or a panic attack.

The signs of agoraphobia are like a panic attack. You may experience the following symptoms when you are in situations or spaces that cause fear; anxiety, dread, rapidly beating heart, trouble breathing or hyperventilation, lightheadedness, or dizziness, feeling hot/ flushes or the opposite of sudden chills, feeling sick in the stomach, feeling shaky and fearful and excessive sweating.

A stressful event may have triggered a panic attack. Panic attacks can be scary, unpleasant,

70 COFFS COAST focus

and embarrassing. We then avoid any place or situation that we may think might trigger another attack until we have avoided and limited many situations and places.

Agoraphobia develops over time and usually begins with a stressful event such as a relationship break-up. We are upset and distressed, and we limit and avoid interactions with the people around us, this is avoidance behaviour. We may limit certain people, groups, and situations and as time goes on, we widen this circle of avoidance to larger groups of people, specific places, and situations until we eventually remain housebound.

Agoraphobia can severely reduce our quality of life if left untreated. It can reduce activities we once enjoyed outside of the house and socialisation. When we have limited our contact with our social networks, we risk isolation, boredom, and loneliness. Our emotions of distress, despair, anger, and frustration with ourselves rise and we feel powerless to change our behaviour. We may choose unhealthy coping mechanisms to compensate for these feelings such as alcohol, drugs, or unhealthy eating. These negative emotions damage our self-esteem and may lead to other anxieties, fears, and depression.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please check in with your health professional.

Your health professional can suggest positive treatment options. Agoraphobia responds well to treatment. The options your doctor or

health professional may suggest will vary from person to person depending on circumstances and preferences.

Self-help methods may assist in learning how to recognise and control anxious thoughts and feelings which will lead to addressing specific situations, places, or people you fear.

Here are some suggestions that may be helpful.

• Psychoeducation - find research from a reputable source about agoraphobia. This will provide an understanding of how anxiety affects the mind and body.

• Focus on your breathing - breathe slowly, as hyperventilation, which is breathing too fast and too shallow, will make the symptoms of a panic attack worse.

• Use relaxation techniques - learn to relax both mind and body through meditation, mindfulness, relaxation techniques, or regular exercise.

• Check in with your healthy eating regimeputting nutritious food into your body, and keeping well hydrated are important to maintain healthy minds and bodies.

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

COFFS COAST focus 71

Welcome Dental

WELCOME DENTAL

Welcome Dental is a locally owned and operated clinic set in the beautiful town of Urunga.

T

he surgery has a lot of local art work by many talented local people (sometimes people just pop in to look at the art), is bright, cheerful and spacious and depending on the season you may be able to pick fruits, herbs or chillis from our garden!

The surgery teams are led by Dr Sharon Marinucci and Ms Kirsty Christensen and we have a variety of

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skilled and experienced clinicians and as such we can provide a full range of dental services – cosmetic, general dental, orthodontic treatments and Invisalign, implants and tooth whitening.

As a practice we like to focus on prevention and encourage our patients to maintain their oral health through their preventive care both at home and attending regular oral health check-ups and cleans.

Our Dentist Dr Sharon Marinucci

Dr Elizabeth Flores Westreicher

As the Practice Principle at Welcome Dental, I am the clinical lead. I enjoy working with very anxious patients and helping them through dental treatment. I also enjoy working with children and assisting people with their orthodontic treatments or Invisalign cases.

As a general dentist at Welcome Dental, I have particular interest in Endodontic, prevention of oral disease and minimally invasive treatments including cosmetic procedures. I am consistently trying to improve and update my skills by attending various courses in order to provide the best possible levels of care to her patients.

I enjoy having variation within my work and the satisfaction at the completion of work.

The best thing is having a large team so that we can bounce ideas off each other and utilise each other’s skills. The one thing I love about my job is that I get to help people achieve their best oral health and overall contribute to someone’s wellness.

My aim is always to make the patient feel comfortable in the chair along with tailoring suitable treatments to the patient’s needs and concerns.

I think my career is very rewarding and I love to be able to help people feel more confident in themselves.

Dr Oleg Pushkarev I am a general dentist, who has achieved my certification at Sydney University to complete implants and am currently completing specialty training in Prosthodontics at the University of Queensland. I am focused on prevention of oral disease and oral rehabilitation.

I enjoy helping people to learn more about their oral health and how they can improve it. I always strive to provide the highest level of care for patients.

COFFS COAST focus 73

Welcome Dental

Our Dental Hygienist/ Therapist MS Jessica Cantrill As a Dental Hygienist, I work with dentists to establish and maintain the best possible oral health of their patient. I like to focus on preventive care and oral health education.

My job is important in the treatment of gum disease by cleaning the teeth in areas that are often impossible for people to reach on their own and removing the hard calculus that grows on the teeth, that can’t be removed by a toothbrush.

I love the relationships I build with my patients over the course of their treatment and preventive care over the years. I love successfully treating and maintaining my patients’ oral health. It is very rewarding having so many thankful and happy patients.

Ms Susan Waldorf I am an Oral Health Therapist (OHT). An OHT is dually qualified as a Dental Therapist and Dental Hygienist. My role is to educate and motivate our patients to maintain optimal oral health by providing relevant education and information and work alongside our team to achieve this.

I provide preventive and planned dental treatment for patients of all ages including; dental examinations, x-rays of teeth and jaws to form a diagnosis.

Oral hygiene instruction, teeth cleaning and teeth whitening. For people under the age of 18; fillings of cavities, placement of deciduous crowns, assisting with orthodontics and extracting deciduous (baby) teeth under local anaesthetic.

I believe there is nothing more rewarding in my job than a patient showing their gratitude for treatment when it’s something that you love doing. I receive artwork and thankyou notes frequently which is very gratifying.

Ms Mariah Smith I am an Oral Health Therapist with an extended scope (OHT). An OHT is dually qualified as a Dental Therapist and Dental Hygienist, however with my extended scope I am able to also complete fillings on patients of any age.

Like Susie, I provide preventive and planned dental treatment for patients of all ages, treatment for people under the age of 18 and also fillings on all patients.

I am the newest clinical team member at Welcome Dental, however I have worked in my field since 2018 and the most rewarding thing about my day is helping our patients get their confidence back, seeing them smile and walk out of the room happy after their appointment.

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We also have Specialist Periodontist Dr Neil McGregor at our surgery who visits locally once a month and denture prosthetist Ms Susan McDonald who visits our surgery weekly.

Our Team Our support team is led by Ms Kirsty Christensen; we enjoy looking after our people and strive to build and maintain a culture of growth and success within our team. It is important for people to want to grow within your company and I feel like we create an environment for that to happen.

I am proud of the team we have both clinical and support and the work and efforts they put in day to day. It is important they are acknowledged:

Reception Team: Rebecca Zmuda Rebecca Dietrich Ella Adams Janelle Akers General Office Duties: Flynn Willis Ella Cantrill

We’ll turn that frown upside down.

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

Dental Assistant Team: Amanda Pye Ebony Phillips Sam Johnson Skylah McColl Morgann Winter Jane Braga Hayden Cantrill Indi Klaus Jesse Emery April Cooper Rebecca Williams Livermore

Services.

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

COFFS COAST focus 75

Your 1st Choice for Quality Aged Care at Home

✓ Personalised services

✓ Skilled & experienced staff

Early entry Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) services: •

Help with Shopping

•

Regular housekeeping

•

Accompanied transport to medical & other appointments

•

Regular social group activities and outings

Phone 6651 7365

76 COFFS COAST focus

✓ Local provider for 25 yrs

Home Care Packages Level 1 - 4 Tailored to meet your care & support needs at home. Services can include but are not limited to: • • • • • •

Nursing /personal care Allied Health services Social support Housekeeping/lawn care Respite/meal preparation Home Modifications

admin@linkedtolife.org.au www.linkedtolife.org.au

LinkedtoLife A JOURNEY OF INDEPENDENCE AND EXCELLENCE IN AGED CARE

A

In a transformative 18 months, Linked to Life, your local aged care service provider offering Aged Care in the home, has emerged as a beacon of support and independence for older residents in our region.

fter 26 years of delivering aged care in partnership with Volunteering Coffs Harbour, it was time to take the next step in the journey. Linked to Life has successfully transitioned into a fully incorporated association dedicated to continue delivery of essential aged care packages into our local region.

A recent audit by the Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission (ACQ&SC) has become a defining moment for Linked to Life Inc. This comprehensive evaluation of the new entity revealed that Linked to Life Inc not only met, but exceeded expectations, exhibiting compliance with all 42 requirements of the 8 Quality Standards. This accomplishment is testament to the commitment and dedication of Linked to Life's management, focused and compassionate staff, dedicated volunteers, and a progressive and broadly experienced Board of Management.

In an era where delivering high quality in aged care services is paramount, Linked to Life's success in meeting and exceeding the standards is a commendable achievement. This recognition from the Aged Care Quality & Safety Commission is validation of the organisation's tireless adherence to excellence in providing "in-home" care and support to older members of our community.

The story of Linked to Life is not just about compliance - although this is an essential component; it's about a caring community coming together to ensure the well-being and happiness of its older members and fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Linked to Life's journey towards independence has not only strengthened its foundation but has also empowered older individuals in our region to age with dignity and respect, and to receive the high quality care they deserve.

The heart of Linked to Life in its people.

This is informed by having an innovative and knowledgeable Board; a dedicated and skilled management team; committed and compassionate staff; and generous and invested volunteers.

You, too, can be an important part in the journey. As the organisation looks towards the future, a call-out for caring individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of our valued seniors resonates. Linked to Life invite new care staff and volunteers to consider becoming part of our mission to maintain and enhance the high standards that have become synonymous within our service.

Considering becoming one of our caring and dedicated staff or volunteers? Why not join us? Use your unique skills and experience in one or more of the following areas within our

organisation: Voluntary Board of Management – do you have an interest in being part of a passionate and dynamic management team? Our Board provides oversight, governance and strategic direction for the organisation to ensure the continued delivery of high-quality outcomes for our older community. We are seeking those in the community who may have a bit of spare time to join our Board.

This is a wonderful and rewarding experience, and an opportunity to be part of the governance and quality delivery of aged care services.

Care team – if you're looking for a rewarding career in community aged care within an organisation with a proven record as an employer of choice, consider joining our team of dedicated care staff.

Volunteer Support Worker – if you would like to use some of your spare time, skills and life experience to provide support and assistance to older people and help to enhance their quality of life - and yours - why not join our volunteer team?

Contact us on: 02 66517365 or admin@linkedtolife.org.au linkedtolife.org.au COFFS COAST focus 77

THE ULTIMATE YEAR 11 & 12 EXPERIENCE

28 MAY A 2024 AY

BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

OPEN DAY DA AY AY

9AM 9AM - 2PM ALL ALL WELCOME

ELEVATE YOUR EDUCATION BOOK BOOK A TOUR TOUR 02 02 6651 6651 5644 5644

Bishop Druitt College offers the ultimate Year 11 and 12 experience.

Accelerated learning with accelerated or extension nsion classes in Business Studies, Studies of Religion 2, Mathematics ematics Advanced and Extension 1, English Extension 1,, Science and History.

Heron Island - hands on learning, Community and Family l ly Studies or PDHPE. Extension Science, Agriculture, Biology, Chemistry, mistry r , Physics, ry Earth and Environmental Studies.

Leadership opportunities and rites of passage..

New Entertainment VET course.

Specialist trained teachers and Career Pathways ays Coach.

Personal interest projects and major works in Technology, Visual Arts, HSIE courses.

Performing Arts in Dance, Music and Drama.

Dedicated senior students centre - The David Ford Centre.

Languages: French and Japanese Continuers or Italian Beginners.

Embark on a transformative journey of personal growth through mentoring, service initiatives, camps, and rites of passage, guiding you towards an Excelsior Journey of excellence and discovery.

www.bdc.nsw.edu.au Enrolling Now o ow 02 6651 5644 Years 11 & 12 2025 enrolments t @bdc.nsw s .edu.au ts sw enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au

focus_contributor.

Education UNLOCKING SUCCESS The Crucial Importance of a High-Quality Senior School Experience

A

student’s success is a combination of families and schools working together. The significance of a high-quality senior school education cannot be overstated. Families working together with schools is where academic excellence intertwines with personal growth, and where passions are nurtured into purpose.

At Bishop Druitt College we recognise the transformative power of these formative years and are dedicated to crafting an educational environment that fosters a future focus mindset, academic excellence, ambition, and character development.

We believe in nurturing a passion for learning and scientific discovery from an early age - K-10.

From there, our senior science curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity and critical thinking and encourage the exploration of diverse scientific fields. From Biology to Chemistry, Physics to Earth and Environmental Studies or Agriculture, our senior science courses offer a comprehensive and immersive experience. One highlight of our program is the Heron Island marine trip, where students have the unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research and exploration of turtle breeding, island ecology and Science Extension. Through these experiences, BDC seniors not only aim to excel academically but also develop a deep appreciation for the natural world and its complexities.

Senior school is also a time of academic

Update with SIMON DOYLE

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE

challenge and growth, built upon each student’s interests and aspirations. BDC offers a range of extension subjects that allow students to delve deeper into areas of interest such as Business Studies, Studies of Religion 2, or Mathematics.

Moreover, our K-10 mathematics and science integration ensures that students develop essential STEM skills that are crucial for success in today’s rapidly evolving world.

Behind every successful student and their families is a team of dedicated teachers committed to their growth and development and expert guidance including our Career Pathways Coach. With their passion for teaching and deep subject knowledge, our teachers create an environment where students feel supported and empowered to reach their potential and consider career pathways.

The BDC Way encompasses a holistic approach that nurtures creativity and innovation. Personal interest projects, major works, performances, or work placement epitomises this ethos, offering students the freedom to pursue their passions within the realms of technology, the arts, HSIE or VET courses. The Excelsior journey in Years 11 and 12 is challenging and rewarding.

Beyond academics and the arts, BDC is dedicated to fostering leadership and personal growth in every student. Through mentoring, service initiatives, camps, and rites of passage, we guide students on an Excelsior Journey of excellence and discovery.

A wide range of subject choices is of high importance when students are working towards a performing arts future. At BDC, our Stage 6 offerings include dance, music, and drama to provide students with exciting opportunities.

A dance studio, theatre and music spaces as well as dedicated, highly skilled teachers allow students to explore their artistic passions and flourish as performers.

Young adults thrive in a supportive and enriching learning environment. Our Wellbeing Hub, Tutor Staff, The David Ford Centre for senior study and the iHub, offer students a variety of spaces for academic pursuit and collaboration, fostering a greater sense of community and camaraderie.

Students can examine major health and movement priority areas in PDHPE, investigate leadership opportunities, contribute to youthfocused groups in Community and Family Studies and excel at the languages on offer from French or Japanese Continuers or Italian Beginners.

We invite you to join us at the Bishop Druitt College Open Day on Tuesday 28 May 2024.

We welcome you to explore our Year 11 to 12 offerings and discover the BDC advantage.

Together, let’s unlock the potential within every student and pave the way for their future success as world prepared graduates.

Discover more at www.bdc.nsw.edu.au/open-day Simon Doyle, Acting Principal Bishop Druitt College COFFS COAST focus 79

THE SHORELINE

WHAT OUR

Residents

ARE SAYING WITH JULIE SECHI FROM THE SHORELINE

DOROTHY For the current generation of retirees, it’s all about making their own decisions and taking matters into their own hands to prepare for their future.

F

or the current generation of care of maintenance and security. Regarding retirees, it’s all about making their security, I’m referring mainly to health. With own decisions and taking matters no family around I was especially concerned into their own hands to prepare that if I became ill or couldn’t live by myself for their future. Most modern easily and needed assistance my family retirees are now wanting to live a wouldn’t be here to help. In The Shoreline this life of social connectedness and freedom from is all available and easily accessed and this was being committed to the high maintenance very important to me. of owning a home.

What are the things Although they may you like best about currently be more than The Shoreline?

I also really love capable of completing I like the predictability the great company tasks around the house, around what’s going within our community they are actively making to happen, and when, and the option to retreat their own choice to free along with the financial APPLICATIONS intoSUITABLE my beautiful themselves from this predictability around apartment and have my burden and prepare for knowing what my privacy, peace and quiet the day they potentially financial commitments PREFERRED APPLICATIONS erred application of when I feel I need it. cannot manage astagline, well as are. eline logo is with the th navybeorsurrounded white text. by people I also really love the at a similar stage of life great company within with white text is generally and stay connected. our community and the option to retreat into a navy background, such as a Dorothy, what made you decide to my beautiful apartment and have my privacy, ument footer. make the move to The Shoreline? peace and quiet when I feel I need it. There First and foremost, I was tired of doing all the are plenty of activities to participate in when he logo is used without the jobs around my home, mostly gardening and I’m feeling social, such as aqua aerobics in the pproval will need to be house maintenance.

I have no family living in pool, there might be a community BBQ or a y contacting BNG Group the area and in fact have very little family at all performance or it might be something simple g. and felt I needed to live somewhere that took like meeting someone for a coffee in our great

mstances where the preferred 80 COFFS COAST focus ot suitable a mono coloured logo may be used in one of d primary colours, outlined in

café; I can be involved as I want to be.

How has your life changed since moving to The Shoreline?

Life has certainly become a lot easier for me since I’ve been living at The Shoreline because I no longer must deal with the mundane everyday chores that go hand in hand with living in a house. I’ve met so many lovely new people here and made many new friends. In my opinion it’s like living in a five-star holiday resort, in fact it’s much better than a lot of the resorts I’ve stayed in. All in all I’m very happy here.

If you’d like to know more about The Shoreline and it’s luxury retirement living PG 7 options, you can call into the display suite which is opposite Ritchies IGA at Park Beach Plaza or call Julie Sechi on 0477 777 957, email julie@theshoreline.com.au or checkout our website www.theshoreline.com.au

focus_contributor.

Women inBusiness with CATH FOWLER

Sarah Speirs

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

P R I N C I PA L A N D L I C E N S E D C O N V E YA N C E R - O N E S T E P C O N V E YA N C I N G S E R V I C E S

W

e are very excited to feature Sarah Speirs, Principal and Licensed Conveyancer from One Step Conveyancing Services in our Home Edition.

Sarah established One Step Conveyancing Services in 2015 and has two amazing support staff Quinn Carniato and Magenta Bailey. We recently had the opportunity to sit and have a chat with Sarah, here’s what she had to say: Can you tell us about how you came to be a conveyancer? I originally started my career in the real estate sector as a trainee sales agent with a local real estate agency. I completed the traineeship but felt that it wasn’t the role for me at that stage being so young at only 18 years old. I still had a passion for the real estate sector and when the opportunity to start working in a highly respected local law firm as a legal assistant became available in 2009, I jumped at the opportunity. After obtaining my conveyancing license through Macquarie University and working as a Licensed Conveyancer my ambition to establish my own conveyancing practice came to fruition and One Step was established in 2015.

What do you think is important to being successful in this industry? All staff at One

Step have a high focus on customer service. This means we keep all clients up to date with how their matter is progressing. We pride ourselves on providing this service and it is reflected with the feedback we receive from real estate agents, mortgage brokers and our valued clients who comment on the level of communication and the extra effort all staff provide throughout the duration of their matter.

We have developed an organisation which can provide a streamline, flexible service depending on what our clients’ requirements are. We have the most up to date technology to provide conveyancing services across NSW or to clients locally who would prefer a remote service. We do however love providing a personalised service and our modern and welcoming office space in Woolgoolga has the capacity to meet face to face with clients. Having a professional business space where clients can come and meet our staff in a relaxed, welcoming and friendly environment is paramount to the success One Step has had in making the process of buying or selling a property less stressful for our valued clients.

What is your best advice for doing business with other local businesses? Communication and respect for each person’s role is the most important factor when continuing to do

business with other local industry professionals.

We love regularly meeting up with our work associates for a catch up and now being in Woolgoolga we are lucky to be surrounded by so many great businesses and community members.

What have been your greatest highlights and accolades over the years? Seeing One Step grow to become a trusted and leading provider of conveyancing services on the Coffs Coast and surrounding areas. One Step’s continued growth, with five employees, the new office space at Woolgoolga providing a welcoming and calming environment, that boasts a separate meeting space where clients can come and meet with our staff.

Most importantly though I think our greatest achievement is being known in the local community by our clients and working relationship with local professionals as a reliable, professional and friendly organisation that prides itself on providing the best service possible.

Where can people find out more about your business? We can be found on our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram and also on our website: www.onestepconveyancing. com.au. Alternatively, our friendly staff can be contacted on 02 6654 1771 during business hours. Licence number 05001089 COFFS COAST focus 81

Kristy Glyde (President) and Sandra Hulbert (Secretary) started playing netball with Bellingen Netball Association in the 90s, around the time of its inception.

Their combined service to the Bellingen Netball Association Committee is over 30 years as coaches, umpires, players, members and executive. They have both had children play for the club and been players themselves. Their commitment and dedication to the club is valued and known by many.

L L A B T E N G E N B E L L I N

HULBERT & SANDRA E D Y L G Y T KRIS

C

an you tell us a bit about the club, its beginnings, and where it’s at now?

Bellingen Netball Association’s mission has always been to coach the foundations of netball to the youth of the community and teach young players how to enjoy the game.

Over the years, as numbers change, netball has been played in a variety of ways in Bellingen.

We began in the early years on our grass courts behind the local pool under the shade of the trees. Then with low numbers and changes in committee, we trained locally and travelled to Coffs Harbour each Saturday with players from Bellingen to compete in the Coffs Harbour competition. We have always encouraged and supported any player that has had bigger dreams than what we can provide, to join other

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associations who can give a more competitive approach if that’s what they were looking for. In the past, these players could not remain playing with Bellingen to represent Coffs Harbour.

Players had to register with a club under the Coffs Harbour banner. This depleted our teams and it was hard to remain competitive and attract new registrations.

and adults, all training and playing in Coffs Harbour representing Bellingen Netball. This arrangement helps Bellingen Netball Association with expert assistance in coaching and education now available and provides more players an opportunity to represent at a higher level. We believe adult netball in our region has benefited and is stronger due to this.

About 8 years ago, we decided to run a competition here locally again, on the grass courts. A couple of years ago, we also had an opportunity to support more adults and teens in the area who wanted to play netball at a higher representative level and attend the Netball NSW State Titles in Sydney. We increased our committee and gave it a go. This idea proved to be very successful with the support of skilled coaches, trainers and team managers. We now have 4 amazing representative teams, juniors

You’ve just started the netball season for 2024, what are some things you’re looking forward to this season?

Over the years Bellingen Netball has had fluctuating registration numbers generally with the primary age children. Now we have the recent addition of hard surface courts and improved facilities, we have seen an increase in registrations and enquiries for this 2024 season.

We hope to include more volunteers into our committee and build umpires and coaches locally

why not now!?!

Bellingen has got some brand new netball courts, what will it mean for the club to have this dedicated community space?

We had started applying for grants about 6 years ago, with the knowledge that in order to grow the sport of netball in Bellingen, we needed new courts. With thanks to Bellingen Shire Council and support from the other Connell Park user groups, a grant was finally secured to build the new hard surface courts, which are a community asset that has been long overdue in Bellingen. Our new location is wonderful, visible to the community and accessible at any time to players, families and schools. People are starting to realise that netball is an option in Bellingen!

supported by our association. We are also very much looking forward to using our new all weather courts, with less cancellations due to wet weather and sodden grass courts, no more measuring, line marking and mowing - Stephen Glyde!

The club is open to different age groups, men and women. Can you tell us about some of the teams and what the comp will be like this year?

As netball is evolving nationally and internationally, we are aware of becoming more adaptable as a sport. The increasing number of adult players has given us the opportunity to include men in our competition as well as a walking netball option which will support an active approach for anyone wanting to enjoy a slower paced game.

We are also very much looking forward to using our new all weather courts, with less cancellations due to wet weather and sodden grass courts, no more measuring, line marking and mowing- Stephen Glyde!

This year in Bellingen we will have Woolworths Net Set Go for 5 to 9yrs, junior competition, mixed teen and adult competition as well as walking netball. We will include trial options for a men only netball and fast 5 netball tournament.

Coffs Harbour currently has an Autumn indoor competition with many of our rep players travelling to that, as well as indoor social netball.

From July it will be the Spring competitions.

In June our senior representative team will head to State Titles in Sydney and the Junior teams will go to Sydney in July.

We would like to encourage local workplaces to become involved by submitting a team in our local competition in Bellingen or go for a try in Coffs. Friendships in netball are supported between clubs and competition stays on the court. If you are considering a return to netball,

The new lighting is also a game changer for our local competitions. We can now make plans for night games which has never been an option before during the winter months.

You’ve got registrations open and are looking to grow the club, what would you say to anyone thinking of giving netball a go?

Come and try! It’s a very friendly environment at Bellingen netball and supportive to all levels of netball. No matter your gender, no matter your age or ability, everyone is welcome. It’s a great way to meet people and make friends for life. Umpires and coaches are also welcome with training being covered and supported by the association. If you can’t play, there are plenty of other ways you can contribute to our small community club. We need our village to make this work and are very grateful to our current volunteers, parents and players.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? bellingennetball@gmail.com @BellingenNetballClub

@PlayHQ.com COFFS COAST focus 83

Do sharks indulge in unhealthy snacks?

THE SCIENCE SAYS YES

W

e all fall to the temptation of eating the chocolate bar over the apple and sharks are no exception.

Researchers at Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre at Charlesworth Bay have discovered sharks seasonally snack on prey that isn’t nutritious but is certainly delicious.

For some people, the Jaws theme is enough to send shivers down their spine. But not Bec Lipscombe.

“I was lucky enough to be diving out at the Solitary Islands at the end of last year. A shiver of smooth hammerheads swam past us and I was squealing with delight underwater. That was a bucket list item that I got to tick off,” Bec says.

As a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate at Southern Cross University’s National Marine Science Centre, Bec is hoping to change public perspectives on sharks through a project funded by the NSW Government’s Shark 84 COFFS COAST focus

Management Program.

“They’re a misunderstood animal,” Bec says. “Sharks play a really important role in the marine ecosystem.

They keep everything in balance and keep the ocean healthy.”

They will switch from eating low trophic-level species like mullet and rays in winter to different prey such as tuna, tarwhine and snapper in spring and summer...

Bec’s research is investigating the diet, habitat use and health of white sharks, which she hopes will influence future management and conservation strategies.

Much like how humans are drawn to a creamy soup and crusty bread in winter and light protein with a side salad in summer, it appears these top predators also change their eating habits as the temperature drops.

“They will switch from eating low trophiclevel species like mullet and rays in winter to different prey such as tuna, tarwhine and snapper in spring and summer,” Bec says.

“Changes in prey changes their health as well. We’ve found certain prey might not

be supporting their overall health. It’s like they’re snacking on fried chicken at certain times of the year then they move to salads at other times.

“We look at the essential fatty acids in their muscle and blood, very similar to what we look at in humans. Essential fatty acids are needed for their growth and development and when they’re eating less nutritious food their essential fatty acids plummet. Then during spring and summer they increased.”

For Bec, there is hope that more research into sharks will lead to greater protection for them, with global shark populations declining by 70 per cent over the past 50 years due to overfishing.

“Over 300 species now are listed as endangered, vulnerable or near threatened.

That’s over half of the entire shark species that we’ve discovered so far that are in threat.”

F

or fellow PhD candidate Kim Monteforte, her shark research is taking place in the sky rather than under the sea.

Kim is investigating drone-based methods for shark research and management, from existing methodologies to trialling new technologies.

“My research involves using drone-based methods to study shark behaviour, species distribution and human-shark interactions within nearshore areas,” Kim says.

“Drones are being used to patrol beach surf zones for sharks, and if the pilot spots one, they can monitor the shark’s movements. If a potentially dangerous species (white, tiger or bull) is detected, necessary precautions can be taken to minimise the risk, such as sounding an alarm or evacuating the water,” Kim says.

The drones are being used in partnership with the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ SharkSmart program and Surf Life Saving New South Wales as a non-lethal mitigation method to keep people safe at the beach.

A pursuit of passion

F ly i n g h i g h f o r s h a r k s u r v e i l l a n c e Kim’s research also involves trialling long-range

land and self-recharge. The docking station

drone-in-a-box technology: “This technology

also has a built-in weather station to ensure

has the capability to perform autonomous

that the weather is favourable for drones to

missions, allowing the pilot to pre-program

fly,” she says.

flight routes that can be operated remotely.

The trial technology will also be used for shark

Once the flight has been completed, the drone

monitoring and research of different coastal

will return to the docking station, where it will

shark species.

F

or Professor Symon Dworjanyn, a senior academic at the National Marine Science Centre, seeing students unlock curiosities through their studies is a rewarding experience.

“We often see students come into a class and afterwards they’ll say something like, ‘I wasn’t really keen on dissecting fish but it’s really amazing. Maybe I’ll become an ichthyologist and study fish’,” Professor Dworjanyn says.

“That’s the great thing about Southern Cross University – you get exposed to all different things and you get to choose your own adventure.”

The National Marine Science Centre is located adjacent to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, where both tropical and temperate currents meet. This interesting setting provides practical opportunities in the study of marine science and management for both students and researchers.

Southern Cross University is a leader in marine science in Australia and is ranked in the top 100 global universities for oceanography (ARWU Shanghai Rankings 2023).

Learn more about studying marine science. scu.edu.au/marine-science COFFS COAST focus 85

The NSW Government is helping reduce the cost of living with more than 70 rebates and vouchers.

By answering the tailored questions in the Service NSW Savings Finder tool, you can find rebates and vouchers relevant to you.

You can apply by visiting service.nsw.gov.au or by scanning the QR code.

Gurmesh SINGH MP coffsharbour@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6652 6500

Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Authorised by Gurmesh Singh MP, 1/9 Park Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements September 2022 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements July 2023 86 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

URBAN Planning STAT E O F

PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

A

s a nation famous for its amazing landscapes and vibrant cities, Australia’s approach to urban planning in our large regional cities must be visionary and practical. In reflecting on my travels through our regions, I’ve observed a universal need: thoughtful integration of urban development with the distinct Australian way of life.

Urban planning and town planning is often misconceived as a discipline concerned only with the aesthetics of city architecture or the layout of road systems. Yet, it encompasses so much more. It is the art and science of enhancing the overall quality of life by designing accessible, efficient, and sustainable environments. Public opinion on this topic varies widely, often passionately so, revealing a gap in understanding that we must bridge through clear, accessible information.

Despite the growing emphasis on sustainability and public transit, cars continue to remain a cornerstone of Australian life - especially away from our capital cities. Good urban planning doesn’t simply push for reduced car usage; instead, it seeks a balance. We must manage our road networks to alleviate congestion and minimise environmental impact while

recognising that many households still rely on private vehicles for daily activities. This balance ensures that our cities are prepared for both present needs and future transformations.

encourage physical activity, serve as social gathering spots, and improve mental health.

Public engagement is crucial. The challenge lies in the fact that while many are quick to voice opinions on our built environment, Imagine living in a city where schools, a comprehensive hospitals, parks, and understanding of urban shopping centres are planning is less common. just a short walk or a As community members, brief drive away. This We must manage being informed and vision can be a reality our road involved in planning with strategic urban networks to alleviate processes is beneficial. planning. By placing congestion and It empowers us to essential services and minimise contribute constructively recreational facilities environmental impact to discussions that shape within easy reach, while recognising that the spaces we inhabit. we not only boost

many households still

the convenience and Thoughtful urban rely on private vehicles attractiveness of our planning is essential for for daily activities. regional cities but also the growth and vitality of enhance the wellAustralia’s regional cities. being of every resident.

It promises more than just Facilities like community functional spaces - it aims centres, cafes, and local shops foster social for environments that uplift and support every interactions and build a sense of community. aspect of daily life.

Australia’s love for the great outdoors should be a guiding principle in our urban design.

Our plans should incorporate parks not as afterthoughts but as central components of urban life. Parks and recreational facilities

As we envisage the future of our regional cities, let’s collaborate to create spaces that embody our collective spirit and values. Let’s build not just for today, but for a sustainable, thriving tomorrow.

COFFS COAST focus 87

E

AUSTRALIA DOESN’T END AT THE EDGE OF THE CITIES

very month I hold community a 90 day review (which took almost 200 and industry forums and days) the Minister for Regional Infrastructure mobile offices aimed at ripped away $20 billion dollars of projects hearing from the people of already approved under the Nationals and the Mid North Coast directly.

Liberals Coalition Government. Funding Cost-of-living issues have such as the $4 million that was assigned continued to escalate this year and remain to scoping and planning solutions to the the number one issue.

Wrights Rd and Lake Rd Under the current Labor intersections on gthe We hear Government we have Oxley Hwy to ease the continued seen electricity prices significant bottlenecks Government claims increase by over 20%, around Port Macquarie gas by 27% as well as that Australians have Base Hospital being significant increases in never been better off. I a prime example. Or the costs of groceries Stage 2 of the Southern don’t think that and fuel. I’ve heard Cross University Health statement passes the from so many small Campus in Coffs pub test, particularly business owners, Harbour that would not in the regions. In arguably the backbone not only have trained regional Australia we of our local economy , students in the services face a myriad of daily who are running a fine we so desperately challenges that people line between absorbing need but eased the living in the major rising costs and finding pressure on our current cities do not. a way to pass them over stretched health on without negatively resources. I know this impacting on sales. If is devastating for many that balance can’t be met, they need to close and I have been bringing these key projects their doors, and we’ve seen some forced to to the Government’s attention each sitting to do just that. keep them front of mind.

Australia we face a myriad of daily challenges that people living in the major cities do not.

Such challenges as access to GPs, particularly ones that bulk bill. To address this, we need to be attracting more GPs to the regions, but recent policy changes have actually encouraged doctors away from the regions to peri-urban settings. Further compounding the issue is our lack of access to childcare, meaning working parents who are willing to fill our workforce shortages cannot find care for the children. Of additional concern was the decision to slash the number of available Medicare funded mental health sessions from 20 down to 10, despite continued calls from MPs, patients and professionals alike.

The fact is that since being brought to Government in 2022, Labor has not invested $1 into regional infrastructure projects.

Indeed, it is quite the opposite. As part of

Alongside my National Party colleagues, I will continue to fight for a fair go for our beautiful region and all regional Australians.

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We hear continued Government claims that Australians have never been better off. I don’t think that statement passes the pub test, particularly not in the regions. In regional

This month, we will hear from the Labor Government on their plans for costof-living relief, infrastructure funding, telecommunications and health spending with the release of the new Budget on May 13. I hope that after two years this Government begins to treat us as equal to our city counterparts.

On a personal note, I would like to thank every member of the community who has taken the time to come and see me. Your feedback and ideas allow me to form policies, arguments and ultimately change.

By Pat Conaghan.

COFFS COAST focus 89

Enhancing

CANINE DIETS WITH

Functional Foods

A SCIENTIFIC PERSPECTIVE

To optimise canine health, incorporating functional foods such as blueberries, eggshell membranes, broccoli, pumpkin, and fresh bones into both fresh and commercially processed diets is crucial.

T

hese ingredients enrich the nutritional profile, support physiological functions, and mitigate the risks associated with oxidative stress.

Blueberries are potent antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress, potentially reducing the incidence of a host of health conditions including cancer and heart disease (Dunlap et al., 2006). Their rich content of flavonoids and anthocyanins also supports cardiovascular and cognitive health. Regular inclusion of a small quantity of blueberries in canine diets is recommended.

Eggshell membranes, abundant in collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, have been shown to improve joint mobility and reduce pain in dogs with osteoarthritis within one week, with significant chondroprotective effects observed over six weeks (Ruff et al., 2016).

Broccoli, high in fibre and vitamins C and K, boosts immune function and bone health. Broccoli also contains sulforaphane, which exhibits anti-cancer potential, and chemoprotective properties during cancer treatments. To maximise sulforaphane content, broccoli should be finely chopped and allowed to rest for ten minutes

90 COFFS COAST focus

before serving.

Pumpkin aids in digestive health due to its indigestible fibre content and is also rich in vitamins A, E, and C, essential for maintaining vision, skin integrity, and immune function. It is proven more beneficial for digestive upsets when served mashed alongside turkey meat in place of the more routinely recommended boiled chicken and rice.

Fresh bones provide calcium and phosphorus, crucial for bone and dental health. They also help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, with studies showing a significant reduction after 20 days (Marx et al., 2016). It is essential to supervise, and only feed raw, nonweight-bearing bones that your pet can consume within fifteen minutes. Dispose of anything left over.

Incorporating these functional foods into canine diets not only enhances nutritional intake but also supports overall health, making them scientifically validated additions to promote a balanced diet.

For an extended version of this article, and a complete list of references, check out our blog online at maggiespetco.com.au

Home Holiday

O F

T H E

G WA N DA L A N

M O N T H

G R O U N D S

W O O L G O O L G A

COFFS COAST focus 91

G WA N DA L A N

G R O U N D S

W O O L G O O L G A

This stunning property is situated on 6.5 acres of private oceanfront land on the NSW North Coast in Woolgoolga. The name has an Indigenous meaning – a peaceful, restful place - which is exactly what it is. Gwandalan Grounds provides a unique beachfront experience you cannot replicate.

Can you tell us a bit about the history of Gwandalan Grounds? We are not the original owners of the property, but we believe that the architect used a ship for inspiration.

Our home can feel like you are standing on the bow of a ship in the middle of the ocean, or looking out to sea through the porthole shaped windows. The upper most room on the third floor of the home replicates the “crows nest” of a ship, or as we sometimes like to call it the “Lookout Room”, and it’s here you have the best ocean view of the whole property.

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Home Hiday

O F

Imagine waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over the sparkling blue ocean and enjoying your morning cup of coffee. .

Tell us about the design and layout of the property? As mentioned above, it can feel like you are in the middle of the ocean. We have windows along the front and side of the home, looking out to stunning views of the ocean, beach and islands, and even looking west towards the green mountain ranges that surround the Woolgoolga township. The property offers six bedrooms, three bathrooms, and sleeps

T H E

M O N T H

11 people – perfect for large family gatherings or weekends with friends. The expansive 180-degree view from the back deck really showcases the spectacular ocean and Solitary Islands, reaching out to the eastern sunrise, the northern sun, and southerly views down to Sandy Beach headland and beyond.

What are the standout features? The house features two captivating levels, including a spacious downstairs rumpus room that overlooks the pool, an upstairs lounge and dining room ideal for entertaining and a kitchen equipped with high-quality appliances.

The three main bedrooms have super-king

sized beds for ultimate luxury, and stunning ocean views that will take your breath away.

Gwandalan Grounds also boasts three dining areas, two within the house and one out on the deck, perfect for alfresco dining in the warmer months. Imagine waking up to the stunning sunrise over the ocean and enjoying your morning cup of coffee – it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. Your family will enjoy busy days exploring the beach, surrounding bushwalks and tracks, fishing and surfing on “Back Beach” and then relaxing at night taking in the views and listening to the sounds of the ocean as you fall asleep.The perfect holiday stay!

What makes the property unique? We have been told the property is situated on sacred Aboriginal Land, a birthing place, where First Nations women would journey to in their last trimester to give birth. It is a very magical and special place. It is a privilege to be able to share the land with such an inspirational meaning.

COFFS COAST focus 93

Home Hiday

O F

T H E

M O N T H

G WA N DA L A N

G R O U N D S

W O O L G O O L G A

What sort of responses have you had from visitors? There are no other holiday properties that share this unique location, and the response has been overwhelming.

The wildlife, the privacy, the infinity pool for lazy days at the house, or the short walk through the private bush track where you can sometimes have the entire beach to yourselves! Kangaroos, cockatoos, kookaburras and an abundance of other native wildlife call this property home. The view when you are sitting on the top floor is like no other.

What do you enjoy about seeing others experience the property and what it has to offer? We love guests appreciation of our private slice of coastal 94 COFFS COAST focus

bushland paradise. Nestled between the mountains and the sea is this sacred land we are honoured to share with our guests and family.

What do you have planned for the property in the future? We are planning to make the property even more family friendly by converting the garage into a giant kids rumpus room with extra beds, a TV and a space where children can hang and enjoy.

Where can we find out more? How can we book? For all the information on this one-of-a-kind holiday home, contact the lovely girls at Cardow & Partners Holidays.

Their office number is 6654 1148 or visit the website cardowholidays.com.au

W H AT O U R G U E S T S S AY Gwandalan Grounds is a lovely private slice of paradise. We enjoyed 5 fabulous days at the property. Beautiful views of the ocean and so calming to hear at night going to sleep! You can literally hear and smell the ocean breeze while you sleep. The interior and design of the property was incredible.

The beds and bedrooms were massive and very comfortable. The verandah was a highlight as we sat and ate our meals in the ocean breeze, overlooking the lake and countryside which was flooded with Australian native wildlife. We spent the majority of our time relaxing in the beautiful weather by the pool which the kids enjoyed.

The teenagers loved the downstairs lounge area and bedrooms. It gave them a sense of privacy so they could relax and enjoy themselves. The top level was great for conversing whilst cooking and relaxing.

There are plenty of well thought out sitting areas to have a chat, read a book or just sit back and relax. A highlight was the third level room which featured stunning views of the ocean and a telescope. The property was thoughtfully stocked with everything

we needed, plus more! We will definitely be staying at Gwandalan Grounds and highly recommend you book your next family holiday! Thanks to the team at Cardow Partner Holidays for your professional and efficient customer service. It was great to deal with human beings rather than an app.

Nicci Seccombe As a First Nations man, I felt that Gwandalan Grounds not only offered us beautiful scenery but I also felt a strong connection to the surrounding country. It was wonderful to wake up to the sunrise each morning and enjoy breakfast on the balcony in the presence of all the native totem animals such as kangaroos, magpies, kookaburras, lizards and so much more. The privacy of the property made it comfortable for our family to kick back, relax and enjoy the offerings such as the infinity pool which my son refused to leave. This was truly a great experience, not only for the comforts but more the connection to the country, which I believe anybody should enjoy!

Cordell Lockwood

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focus_contributor.

We live in a beautif ace!

Property COFFS COAST

REPORT

with SHANE BROOKS

FROM STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR

T

Properties on the Market for Sale

to go.

All figures presented are sourced from RP Data Core Logic.

As of Feb 29, 2024, there were approximately 402 houses and 313 units on the market for sale in the Coffs 2450 postcode with 1,343 houses and 477 units for sale in the larger Coffs LGA. These listing levels have been relatively consistent over the past 5 years.

Property Sales Volumes

Median Selling Period

For the year to Dec 2023 there were a total of 310 house sales, compared to 304 in 2022 and 427 in 2021 (COVID boom) for the Coffs 2450 postcode. For the Coffs LGA there were 987 house sales in 2023 compared to 958 in 2022 and a whopping 1,378 house sales in 2021.

As of Dec 23 on average it took approx. 73 days to sell a house and 48 days to sell a unit in the Coffs LGA and these median days on market have been largely consistent on an annual basis for the past 3-5 years. There has been a lengthening of days on the market during the 2023 calendar year lifting from 49 days in March 2023, 66 days in June 2023 and 75 days in September 2023.

There are buyers ready to buy on every day of the year based on when they are ready and able to purchase which may be triggered by many individual factors including when they have sold, been approved for finance, are ready to upsize/downsize, want to relocate, starting a new job, health & lifestyle reasons, family considerations, retiring etc. It’s the same for sellers, the best time to sell is when you are ready to sell. The property market never stops and there are multiple buyers for every property!

his month lets delve into a little more detail on some interesting local property market data, analysis and insights.

Interestingly 51% of house sales in the Coffs 2450 postcode in 2023 were priced between $600k to $800k, 26% were $800k to $1m and 10% were $1m to $2m. For the Coffs LGA 25% of all houses sold in 2023 were between $1m to $2m!

Go Coffs Coast, we are finally well and truly on the map!

Unit sales volumes have been steady over the past few years with 256 sales in the Coffs 2450 postcode in 2023, 240 in 2022 and 330 in 2021. For the Coffs LGA 47% of unit sales in 2023 were in the $400k to $600k price bracket, 26% were between $600k to $800k, 10% were between $800k to $1m and 6% were in the $1m to $2m price bracket!

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These statistics are consistent with a slowing economy and cooling market conditions following the post COVID boom as the Government and Reserve Bank tries to control rising inflation levels.

The “Best” Month To Sell I wish I had a dollar for every time I have been asked this one. Unfortunately, there is no such “magic” month despite what we all have been led to believe. Whilst the Spring selling season is highly promoted by agents each year and is definitely a lovely time of the year, the reality is we sell properties each and every day of the year to buyers who are ready

Recent Surge in Buyer Enquiry I have noticed a recent surge in buyer demand locally based on internet buyer enquiries from mainly owner occupiers relocating to Coffs for job, family, health, lifestyle and retirement purposes which has driven a higher volume of sales than previous months. We have had highly competitive bidding wars from multiple buyers on a number of our Stone Coffs properties for sale over recent months with our vendors being extremely happy with the higher negotiated selling prices!

The Coffs Coast ticks a lot of boxes and in my opinion the local property market activity levels are definitely on an upward trajectory.

Next month I will focus on how to maximise the selling price of your property!

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Belle Property is now at home in the Nambucca Valley and the Coffs Coast.

Australias leading boutique real estate network, Belle Property is thrilled to announce that one of the Nambucca region’s highest performing real estate agents has joined Australia’s leading lifestyle real estate brand, marking the first new office to open for the brand in 2024.

Belle Property Nambucca Heads is led by Principal Scott Thompson who brings more than a decade of local sales experience with him. Most recently servicing the area as a member of another successful Coffs Harbour / Nambucca / Sawtell Agency, Scott is a passionate local advocate who has set suburb and street sales records, whilst also being involved with various local charities and associations.

Scott join Belle Property to further expand our offering in New South Wales is incredibly exciting. Scott demonstrates all of the values we pride ourselves on at Belle, and his passion and knowledge of his local area is reflected in his past sales results. We are thrilled that his is the first new Belle Property office to open this year – the first of many as we continue our national brand expansion strategy.”

With a genuine love for the area he calls home, it is his passion for providing quality service to his local area that inspired Scott to introduce Belle Property to the region.

The latest expansion also reaffirms Belle Property’s commitment to developing its talent base in regional areas, via its award-winning learning and development department The Academy. With an offering including high-performance coaching, webinars, training workshops and online self-paced courses, The Academy ensures that regional agents receive ongoing and relevant training across all roles and departments.

“The Belle brand resonates with my values as Belle prides itself on being a leader in the industry. The quality of properties Belle represents, and the skill of its agents, are perfectly aligned to the business I want to build in the Nambucca Valley and on the Coffs Coast,” he said. “I am excited to be working with the best people in the industry, as well as the opportunity to put the area on the map. With the establishment of our new Nambucca Heads business, I am perfectly equipped to represent a premium product in an area that I not only love, but that has incredible potential to grow.”

The opening of the new Nambucca Heads office further cements Belle Property as the country’s leading premium agency and continues the brand’s expansion in NSW. In response to the launch, Belle Property Head of Franchise Sales, Andrew Robinson, said, “Having a young gun such as

Scott noted that Belle’s ongoing investment in its people also mirrors his desire to invest in his local area.

“All across the Coffs region to the somewhat forgotten paradise of the Nambucca Valley, this is a stunning part of the world, and I intend to service the area with the level of quality and professional service that it deserves,” Scott says of his plans for the new office. “I am a passionate local and I hope that Belle Property Nambucca Heads becomes the go-to for people wanting to buy and sell in the area. I remain absolutely committed to achieving outstanding results for vendors and buyers.”

Scott Thompson is now at home at Belle Property Nambucca Heads, servicing the Nambucca valley and Coffs Coast.

Scott can be contacted on 0422 814 714 or scott.thompson@belleproperty.com

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We only do conveyancing - and we’re good at it!

Fast, comprehensive and affordable conveyancing.

Keeping you informed at every step, for a fast and stress-free process.

“One Step Conveyancing is not your everyday conveyancing firm. We live and breathe conveyancing and it is all that we do within our practice and we are proud to say we do it well.

We truly do care and understand that each property transaction is unique and important.

We treat each client as if their conveyance was our own and understand what an important part of their life they are embarking on, therefore ensuring they have the most experienced and up-to-date conveyancers assisting them.”

Sarah Speirs – Founder

We service the entirety of NSW, specialising in a wide range of property transactions including: Family Transfers

Land Purchases

Home Purchases

Residential Sales

FAST, COMPREHENSIVE AND AFFORDABLE CONVEYANCING. WITH A MODERN, STREAMLINED APPROACH KEEPING YOU INFORMED AT EVERY STEP, FOR A FAST AND STRESS-FREE PROCESS.

Suite 4, 10 Queen Street Woolgoolga NSW 2456 100 COFFS COAST focus

(02) 6654 1771

with JASON BURLEY FROM BURLEY AGED CARE ADVICE

GE T T I N G YO U R

RAD Back

Money you pay as a lump sum for your residential aged care room will be refunded to your estate – so what do you need to know about when and how your money is refunded?

A

ccommodation payments (called Refundable Accommodation Deposits – RADs for short) are one of the most misunderstood areas of residential aged care. Many people don’t realise that a RAD is not “lost” money but is refundable when you leave care or pass away.

When entering care you will have the choice to pay for your room as a lump sum or a daily fee. If you pay the lump sum you give up access to this money while you live in care, but it remains part of your wealth and can be left as an inheritance for your family. If you choose to pay the daily fee, this money is not refundable.

How much is refundable?

The full RAD paid is refundable. But if you ask the care provider to take ongoing care fees from your RAD (instead of paying these fees from your bank account) this reduces how much is refundable as you are spending some of the RAD paid.

The rules were different before 1 July 2014,

so you may have had experience with a family member who did not get all their money back in previous years. The rules are also different for retirement villages where you may lose a portion of your entry cost as a deferred management fee or refurbishment fee.

Under the current residential aged care rules, as long as you pay your other fees in full each month, there will be nothing to deduct from the RAD and it is fully refundable.

Example: John moves into residential aged care with a room price of $500,000. He cashes investments to pay the full lump sum RAD and uses his remaining savings and income streams to pay all of his ongoing care fees along the way. When John passes away, the care provider will refund $500,000 to his estate.

You do not receive interest on your money while you live in care – but payment of the lump sum reduces the daily fees that would otherwise be payable.

When is the RAD refunded?

After you pass away, your executor may need

to obtain probate and show it to the care provider. The provider then has 14 days to pay the refund.

Some providers might not ask for probate and have a cheque ready to pay the refund when your family come to collect your personal items. It is up to the provider to decide if they want to see probate or not. The reason for probate is to ensure that the person coming to collect the refund is the person legally able to collect the money for the estate.

As an Accredited Aged Care ProfessionalTM, I can provide advice to remove the uncertainty and help you choose the best strategy for you.

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 0431 414 799 E jason@burleyagedcareadvice.com.au W www.burleyagedcareadvice.com.au COFFS COAST focus 101

Local. Flexible.

Available.

That’s our home lenders.

Whether you’re looking to buy, invest or refinance, we’re here to help you through every step.

Book an appointment today.

Derek is excited to join the team at North Coast Lending after more than 10yrs as a Finance Broker here on the Coffs Coast.

With a personal approach, built on communication, expertise and ongoing long term business relationships with his clients and their close family & friends, Derek will provide expert knowledge and service throughout the finance journey and beyond.

Bee Teh Home Lending Specialist 0436 918 479 MooiBee.Teh@cba.com.au

Working with clients here locally, as well as across all States and Territories, whether you are a first home buyer, existing property owner, investor, or a business owner in need of equipment finance or other business finance needs, we’re here to help.

CommBank Park Beach Plaza

OUR SERVICES

Home Loans

Lorraine Ryan Home Lending Specialist 0481 910 746 Lorraine.Ryan@cba.com.au CommBank Park Beach Plaza

Things you should know: Applications are subject to credit approval. Eligibility criteria and other conditions may apply to some loans. Full terms and conditions will be included with our loan offer. Fees and charges may be payable. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL and Australian credit licence 234945.

ADV15406 190523

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Car Loans

Business Loans

Equipment Finance

SMSF Finance

Derek Jordan SPECIALIST LENDER 0431 014 092 | derek@northcoastlending.com.au www.northcoastlending.com.au 24 Gordon St, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Derek Jordan is an authorised representative (ACR 447637) North Coast Lending Pty Ltd ABN 30640640688

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We live and breathe the local spirit, from small businesses to big from dreamers.

We live and breathe the local spirit, small businesses to big dreamers.

We live and breathe the local spirit, from small focus businesses to big dreamers.

Regional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL & Australian Credit Licence 241167 Regional Australia Bank Ltd ABN 21 087 650 360 AFSL & Australian Credit Licence 241167

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Pick up your copy of our ‘Inspired by You’ brochure today for all of the upgrade details.

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Visit our stunning display home today!

Moonee Beach Estate 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. Open Daily 10am-4pm Contact : Phillip Hitchins 0428 271 884 phillip.hitchins@perryhomes.com.au Tracey Lavelle 0434 499 829 tracey.lavelle@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au *Terms and conditions. Promotion includes all items in the Enhance Collection, Retreat Collection, Envy Collection, Indulge Collection and Inspired Finishes and Inspired Comfort. Build time guarantee is for single storey, slab on ground dwellings up to 270 sq m only. This promotion applies to initial deposits made during the offer period, which result in a Building Contract executed, 5% deposit paid and ready for Council/Private Certifier lodgement within 90 days after initial deposit has been made. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount and is not redeemable for cash or credit and cannot be substituted with other products. Perry Homes reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time. NSW Lic. No. 110970C. E34332.