Coffs Coast Focus - i177

issue

177 OCTOBER 2025

NICK WILLS A A N U K A

B E A C H

H O U S E

BAKERY& CAFE, BAR &PIZZERIA As the sun sets, Stef & Co transforms into a vibrant cocktail bar and pizzeria.

Sip on handcrafted cocktails or choose from a curated mix of fine Italian, European, and select Australian wines. Pair your drinks with share plates, pizzoli, and authentic pizzas, all in a warm, inviting waterfront setting.

WHAT’S ON

SCAN TO SEE WHAT’S ON

BAKERY CAFE OPEN 7 DAYS THE PROMENADE 319 HARBOUR DR, COFFS HARBOUR ALL INFO MENUS & ENQUIRES | stefandco.com.au

OSTERIA RESTAURANT

EXPERIENCE THE TRUE ESSENCE OF ITALY

Get ready to experience the true essence of Italy at “Osteria,” our modern Italian restaurant.

Featuring authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and handmade dishes, Osteria brings unforgettable dining to Coffs Harbour.

OPEN WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY FROM 5PM, SUNDAY FOR LUNCH FROM 12PM

BOOK ONLINE HERE

Supporting Independence.

Respecting Culture.

Connecting Communities.

Our Story

Our Team

All Purpose CALD Services was founded by Sahar Abdelrahman to close the gap in disability support and employment for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in Coffs Harbour.

As a humanitarian refugee, Sahar understands first-hand the barriers of language, culture, and access. Her journey inspired her to build a service that empowers people to find their voice, achieve independence, and thrive with dignity.

We are a Registered NDIS Provider with a compassionate, multicultural team of support workers, coordinators, and specialists.

With years of experience in disability, community, and mental health services, as well as leadership and support coordination, Sahar combines lived experience with professional expertise to deliver care that is both NDIS-compliant and people-focused.

89 COFFS COAST focus

What makes us unique?

•

Strong local networks across Coffs Harbour

•

Great relationships with families, providers, and community groups

•

A multilingual team speaking: Dinka, Kurmanji, Arabic, Karrini, Swahili, Swishahili, Spanish, Mandarin, Corindi, Dari, and Thai

•

This ensures we can connect with participants in ways that are inclusive, respectful, and culturally meaningful.

Our Services We proudly deliver a wide range of NDIS supports tailored to each participant’s needs, including:

•

Community access and participation

•

Life skills development

•

Life stage transitions

•

Household tasks and domestic support

•

Personal care and daily living support

•

Support coordination

•

Travel and transport assistance

•

Specialist employment pathways

•

Shared living and SIL supports

•

Group and centre-based activities

Why Choose Us? Registered NDIS Provider you can trust Local and trusted team in Coffs Harbour Strong track record with CALD participants and families Multilingual and multicultural staff who understand your needs Services built on respect, empowerment & self-determination

Let us support your NDIS journey today.

Suite A, Level 1, 144–148 West High St, Coffs Harbour Call 0404 682 851 admin@allpurposecaldservices.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 90

IT’S BUSINESS. But not as usual.

Bachelor of Business reinvented for 2026.

Southern Cross University has reimagined business education to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.

This is a business degree built for the real world – where marketing, human resources and management aren’t electives, they’re essentials. From your first term, you’ll work with real businesses, gain global experience in places like Japan, UK or USA, and build the skills employers actually want. With 6-week terms, professional accreditation, and 93% graduate employment*, this is business, reinvented.

Applications open for 2026.

Scan the QR code or visit scu.edu.au/business-reinvented *Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023

CRICOS Provider: 01241G TEQSA Provider Code: PRV12043 Australian University

BREATHE NEW HOPE

HOW HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY IS CHANGING LIVES If you’ve battled a stubborn health issue – a lingering injury, fatigue, or relentless pain – you’ll know the frustration of treatments that don’t deliver. It can leave you disheartened, sometimes even giving up on finding relief.

Now, imagine a therapy that helps your body heal not through medications, but by simply enhancing your breath. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is gaining global recognition for its ability to transform the lives of people living with a wide range of health challenges.

Far from experimental, HBOT has been safely used in hospitals worldwide for decades to treat decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and non-healing wounds. Today, at Kado Wellness Recovery Centre, we’re proud to make this proven therapy available to the Coffs Harbour community — giving locals access to a natural, science-backed path to healing.

HOW IT WORKS

WHAT IT CAN HELP WITH

During each 60-minute session, you’ll relax in a pressurised chamber while breathing pure oxygen.

The increased pressure allows significantly more oxygen to dissolve into your bloodstream, reaching areas of the body that normally struggle to receive enough. This oxygen boost helps your body:

Beyond hospital use for wounds and radiation damage, research shows HBOT can also benefit:

•

Reduce inflammation and swelling

•

Grow new blood vessels and tissue

•

Stimulate stem cells and collagen production

•

Strengthen immune function

It’s safe, non-invasive, and many find the experience deeply calming. At Kado Wellness, our HBOT chamber has been designed for ultimate comfort: you’ll sit upright in a spacious reclining chair, with air-conditioning and a clear glass door so you feel at ease — without any sense of confinement.

Many clients bring a book or magazine to read during their session, while others take the chance to close their eyes and rest. It’s often a simple, relaxing way to spend an hour.

•

Brain injuries, stroke, and concussion

•

Long COVID and chronic fatigue

•

Post-surgical and sports recovery

•

Chronic pain and autoimmune conditions

•

Mood, sleep, and mental clarity

HOW MANT SESSIONS ARE NEEDED? HBOT isn’t a quick fix, but its benefits grow with each session. The recommended timeframe varies depending on the condition, but a typical course ranges from 20 to 40 treatments, usually spaced three to five times a week.

These numbers reflect research-backed protocols that maximize cumulative benefits. Users often start noticing improvements in fatigue and inflammation within the first few weeks.

However, long-term healing requires commitment— regular sessions help sustain and deepen results.

At Kado, we proudly offer MediPay — giving clients the flexibility to access our treatments with manageable payment options that make investing in their health and wellbeing easier.

LOCAL STORIES OF CHANGE At Kado Wellness Recovery Centre, we’ve already seen remarkable improvements in our clients firsthand: •

Male, 62: Post-concussion headaches eased, with clearer thinking and brighter mood.

•

Female, 45: Autoimmune-related stiffness reduced, energy improved, and she returned to yoga.

•

Male, 28: Post-surgery swelling reduced quickly, with faster-than-expected healing.

•

Female, 58: Fibromyalgia symptoms eased, with better sleep and calmer moods.

These may not be miracle cures – but they are real, life-changing improvements for our clients when nothing else has brought relief.

COULD HBOT HELP YOU? If you’re dealing with a condition feels like an uphill battle, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy could offer a refreshing new path. With expert care and proven science, it invites those ready to enhance their body’s natural healing with oxygen’s pure power.

If you’re living with fatigue, brain fog, slow recovery, chronic pain, or simply want to support your body’s repair system, book in for a session at Kado Wellness Recovery Centre today and begin your journey to deep, natural healing.

Call 1800 699 436 or visit kadowellness.com.au.

Shop 4/25 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour

10 COFFS COAST focus

Where friends, food and good times come together.

A Delicious Journey at Park Beach Plaza

COFFS COAST focus 11 #Everything you need

12 COFFS COAST focus

Beatties October Bargin Bonanza

Lots of Floor Stock Clearances Big Savings now, Comfort ready for Christmas Only while stocks last, limited stock available

Stressless® Mayfair Recliner

The Great La-Z-boy Recliner Sale Buy one recliner & get the second

HALF PRICE!

ENDS 27 OCT

*Applies to in-stock items only, with pre-Christmas delivery offer ends 27 October

Beatties

Quality Furniture

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday - Day Off Sunday 10am-2pm 2 Duke St, Nambucca Heads PH: 6568 7484 2/158 Lake Rd, Port Macquarie PH: 5572 9500

www.beattiesfurniture.com.au

FREE DELIVERY & INSTALLATION

over

EST

. 1983

ISSUE 17 7 - OCTOBER 202 5 INTERVIEWS

22

56 124

JACKIE JAMES

NICOLE RUIGROK

SHANE CONLAN

Twin sisters Jacki and Kylie have lived lives of contrasts, from Sawtell to the outback, policing to cattle stations, and they’ve captured it all in their new memoir, Reef and Beef, sharing their highs, lows, and uncanny“twin moments”.

For forty years, Camp Creative has brought colour, music, and inspiration to Bellingen as one of its most beloved annual events. Nicole tells us about the magic, milestones, and meaning behind this much-loved tradition.

From his shed in Sawtell to screens across the globe, Shane Conlan has built a YouTube empire with DIY For Knuckleheads with more than 423,000 subscribers and 50 million views from all around the globe, including Iceland!

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 44. Wine Without Rules - Duane Roy 75. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 81. Thriving Not Just Surviving - Angela Martin 96. Education Update - Simon Doyle 103. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh 105. Random Acts of Kindness - Renae Donovan CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

SIMON DOYLE

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

108. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 110. Money Matters - Tanya McManus 121. Home Styling - Anthony Beringen 132. Holiday Home of the Month - Annette Sommerville 134. Property Report - Shane Brooks

Thank you for your contribution to

focus

Follow us on 14 COFFS COAST focus

facebook.com/coffscoastFocus

111 focusmag.com.au

FIND US ON COFFS COAST focus 15

H

Welcome to the OCTOBER 2025 EDITION.

ello Coffs Coast, welcome to our October edition of Coffs Coast FOCUS. Spring sunshine, full diaries, and a fresh magazine made with a lot of local love.

This month’s cover celebrates a name many of you already know: Nick Wills, owner of Tilly & Wills and Aanuka Beach House.

Nick’s story is one of grit, good taste and community, and we loved capturing the energy that’s reshaping an iconic coastal venue while launching a new local favourite. The team from Aanuka Beach House are celebrating their 1st birthday this month, so from the FOCUS crew..

Happy Birthday!

Inside, our marquee feature is “Tradesmen You

Can Trust,” a showcase of the people who keep the Coffs Coast moving. You’ll find practical profiles, honest advice, and plenty of contacts for the project you’ve been meaning to start. If you’re a supplier, apprentice or solo tradie who missed out this round, reach out, we’re already taking expressions of interest for the next instalment.

We’ve packed the issue with what you told us you value most: real stories, helpful recommendations and what’s on around the beaches, valleys and hills we share. From new menus and live music to festivals and family days out, our team has walked the pavements, tasted the food, and asked the extra questions so you can make the most of October.

COFFS COAST

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

PHONE 0413 816 010 WEB focusmag.com.au IG focus.mag E nicole@focusmag.com.au

contacts.

Looking ahead, November turns the spotlight to “Buy, Sell, Build”. Our property and projects are dedicated to smart moves, from first-home steps and renos to commercial fit-outs and investment ideas. If you have a development, listing, service or success story to share, now is the time to book your space and secure editorial support.

Thank you to our readers, contributors and advertisers for making local media possible. Your messages, ideas and partnerships fuel every page.

If you’ve got a story tip, an event, or a business milestone, email nicole@focusmag.com.au, tag @focus.mag on socials. Deadlines sneak up, book early to secure space and photography support.

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

COPY EDITOR Bev Mulcahy - info@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Samantha Dawson - sam@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin Moroney gavin.moroney@austcommunitymedia.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont - jay@focusmag.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul - dylan@focusmag.com.au DESIGNER Karol Rathinson - kyle@focusmag.com.au

69

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney - Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Rachel Law - wedeliverfocus@gmail.com

Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Coffs Coast Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2025 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.

16 COFFS COAST focus

COFFS COAST focus 17

Aanuka Beach House has just celebrated its first year since ITS MAJOR TRANSFORMATION UNDER THE DIRECTION OF CO-OWNER NICK WILLS, WHO ALSO COFOUNDED HOSPITALITY POWERHOUSE TILLEY & WILLS HOTELS. With a vision to create vibrant community hubs and breathe new life into iconic venues, Nick shares how Aanuka has become a standout destination on the Coffs Coast.

H

i Nick. You’ve cofounded and grown Tilley & Wills Hotels into one of Australia’s most dynamic hospitality groups, what first inspired you to get into hospitality, and how has your vision evolved over the years?

Getting into hospitality at an early age and seeing the industry grow is what first inspired me to pursue a career in pubs. Creating connections with customers and fostering community hubs for people to engage with and create memories is what makes it all worthwhile. At Tilley & Wills we look to build strong, likeminded teams to allow us to continue to grow and bring our hospitality ethos to life.

You’re known for revitalising venues and bringing fresh energy to each location.

What’s your approach when you step into a new project and what makes a venue stand out to you as one you want to take on?

We look for venues that have promise through location and the community. Aanuka Beach House stood out as a new challenge 18 COFFS COAST focus

NICK WILLS A A N U K A

B E A C H

H O U S E

for Tilley & Wills in one of NSW’s favorite

have kicked goals this year such as our

holiday regions. With its beachfront location

Executive Chef Richmond Rodrigues winning

and stunning views, we knew that we could

the 2025 ‘Professional Chef Of The Year’

breathe new life into Aanuka Beach House

Award to being finalists in the NSW Regional

and begin writing an exciting new chapter for

Tourism Awards. Our staff are the heart and

this iconic space in the region.

soul of the venue and seeing them tackle this

Aanuka Beach House is celebrating its

new challenge has been amazing to watch. I

first year since its big transformation.

look forward to seeing where 2026 takes us.

Looking back, what are you most proud

For people who haven’t visited yet, what

of about the project?

does Aanuka have on offer for locals and

Looking back, I am proud of what we have

visitors alike?

managed to achieve and the team that we

Aanuka Beach House is a stylish yet laid-back

have built at the venue. Our talented staff

hub for dining, events, and social gatherings.

It’s a space to soak in the coastal beauty of Diggers Beach while indulging in exceptional food, drinks, and hospitality. We wanted to create a space that locals and visitors would instantly connect with - a place where people can come together in a truly special setting.

You’ve described Aanuka as “one of the best locations we’ve seen on the east coast.” What makes this place so special to you?

Sitting at the venue and looking at the uninterrupted ocean views of Diggers Beach is just breathtaking. The Coffs Coast has a unique feel to the region and is one of the reasons we were drawn to Aanuka Beach House in the first place. The community is just amazing, and we are so honoured to be a part of it.

The renovation placed strong emphasis on using local tradespeople and engaging with the community. Why was that important to you, and what impact have you seen from that decision?

By using local trades on the build, it has

We wanted to create a space that locals and visitors would instantly connect with - a place where people can come together in a truly special se ing.

allowed the local community to have some ownership on the project and the venue, giving them something to bring to the Coffs Coast that hasn’t been seen before. Creating these connections early on has allowed us to get to know the people in the region and provide something that caters to their needs and wants. This isn’t just a business; it’s a place for the Coffs community, and we want everyone to feel at home here.

At Tilley & Wills we like our venues to be the heartbeat of the community, and this starts from the build to when we open the doors.

What have you enjoyed most about seeing Coffs Harbour locals embracing the new Aanuka Beach House?

Seeing the response from the local community has been amazing. The bonds that the team have formed with our locals is at the heart of what we do, and we look forward to bringing

even more experiences and events to the region in 2026 and beyond.

We believe in fostering a fun and inclusive environment from the licensee to the General Manager, Head Chef, staff and the customer experience.

Finally, with Aanuka marking its first birthday, what’s next on the horizon for this venue?

Looking ahead, Aanuka Beach House has more in store with a luxurious on-site day spa set to open later in 2026, adding another layer of indulgence to our offering. We are also aiming to provide more spaces for the community to host events at the venue, with this under construction currently. As we approach summer, we also have a lot of exciting activations in the works that we cannot wait to share in the coming months.

Thanks Nick.

COFFS COAST focus 19

AANUKA BEACH HOUSE

Aanuka Beach House is marking its first anniversary since reopening, and what a year it has been!

From community celebrations and major events to the challenges of weather and natural disasters, the venue reflects on a whirlwind 12 months as they share the highlights, lessons, and plans for the future as they continue to grow as a much-loved destination on the Coffs Coast.

A

anuka Beach House is celebrating one year since the opening!

Looking back, what has this first year meant for Aanuka Beach House?

What a wonderful first year it has been. There have been so many highlights for us with the opening party, getting to meet all the locals, working with new mayor Nikki Williams and the team at City of Coffs Council who have been so welcoming and helpful. Christmas Holidays and Easter were wholesome and it was fun seeing families relax and celebrate.

We also helped bring the NSW Surf Classics to the venue in June with 900 competitors which was another highlight. In saying that, it has been a rollercoaster of a year at Aanuka Beach House as well, learning how to adapt to the weather, two major natural disasters and the seasonal nature of Coffs Harbour has been 20 COFFS COAST focus

a challenge. But it has all been worthwhile though seeing the venue grow and the relationships that we have been able to form with the local community. We have managed to achieve a lot in the first year of trading and learnt a lot of lessons that we can take into 2026 to continue to grow the venue and our offering.

Aanuka has such a stunning natural setting. How did the design and renovation make the most of its beautiful coastal location?

When we first saw the venue, the goal was always to build coastal vibes that were fun and comfortable for everyone to enjoy.

Once you have been to the venue, you will notice wherever you are located, there are unparalleled ocean views of Diggers Beach which really sets the atmosphere for the venue. Whether you are having breakfast

as the sun rises over the horizon or relaxing with a drink on the lawn as it sets. It is a view that never gets old and provides the perfect backdrop for the venue.

How has the local community responded over the past year? What has been the feedback from guests since reopening?

We have had a truly amazing response from the local community, it has been so overwhelming how welcoming they have been. Coffs people have this friendly warmness to them. We love all the feedback that we get as it allows us to improve our offering and better tailor the venue to the wants and needs of the local community. We strive to be the heartbeat of the region and provide a space for visitors to build memories that we can share with them. That is what hospitality is all about after all.

You’ve aimed to create an inclusive, year-

round destination. What kinds of visitors are you seeing; locals, holidaymakers, events, and how do you cater to all of them?

We see a wide range of guests at the venue with the Coffs Coast region being a holiday favourite for much of NSW. This means that throughout the year we see people of all backgrounds coming to enjoy the venue from holiday makers during holiday periods to our locals on a daily basis. Through creating a venue where our locals can feel at home, we are also creating a slice of home for holiday makers. It isn’t a case of trying to cater to the different times of year as much as it is creating a venue with a strong offering that can be enjoyed by all no matter the time of year.

Aanuka Beach House has been described as one of the best spots on the east coast.

What do you think makes it such a special destination?

There are many things that make Aanuka Beach House one of the best locations but in my opinion, it starts with the community, the staff and the locals that make the place.

We always have fun as part of our brand

guidelines and that paired with creating great experiences is what makes it. Whether it's food designed by our award-winning Chef Richmond, events we create or the cocktails you sip while you relax within the stunning setting of Diggers Beach.

We have some exciting activations coming up around the 1st birthday that we can’t wait to share with you all. Keep an eye on our socials for more information on that to come!

How will you be celebrating this milestone? Any special events or things to look out for?

We have some exciting activations coming up around the 1st birthday that we can’t wait to share with you all. Keep an eye on our socials for more information on that to come!

How has the first year shaped the way you see Aanuka’s future, are there any new plans or projects in the pipeline?

After operating for a year, it has given us a better idea of the region and the habits of the community throughout the year from summer to winter and allows us to tailor our

offering along with our activations to better suit the needs and wants of the community. This is something we will use to continue to grow Aanuka Beach House into 2026 and beyond.

As for plans we have a few, but we can’t share those with you just yet.

What we can say though is that we are excited!

As you celebrate this milestone, what message would you like to share with the local community and the visitors who’ve supported Aanuka this past year?

We just want to say a massive thank you to the Coffs Coast region for the support they have shown us in 2025. Without the support of our locals, we wouldn’t be able to make Aanuka Beach House a reality. We can’t wait to continue providing Coffs Harbour a space to create memories for years to come.

Thanks.

COFFS COAST focus 21

Jacki

James R E E F

A N D

B E E F

Twin sisters Jacki James and Kylie Fisher have lived lives full of contrasts, from coastal Sawtell to the remote outback, from policing to cattle stations, and now they’ve captured it all in their new memoir, Reef and Beef. In this rare dual perspective, the sisters share the highs, lows, and uncanny “twin moments” of five decades together, offering readers a story that is both deeply personal and refreshingly unique.

H

i Jacki, congratulations on the release of your book Reef and Beef! Can you tell us how the idea for the book first came about?

‘What is it like being a twin’ is something we have been asked constantly throughout our lives, and although we have such a twin connection, we have lived such contrasting lives as adults. Many people encouraged us to write down our story. There are plenty of books written about raising twins, and fictional books about twins, but there are very few books written by twins. We have written, from our perspective, the good, the bad and the ugly side of being a twin.

The title Reef and Beef is brilliant; Sawtell on the coast for you, and the big farm for your sister. How does that contrast capture 22 COFFS COAST focus

the essence of your story?

Reef and Beef optimises the contrast of our identical lives. ‘Reef’ highlights a coastal scene, with storms, surf and a dynamic fast-moving life. ‘Beef’ emphasizing patience, slow growth and endurance. Switching between them both sharpens the contrast of our lives offering highs and lows, movement and stillness. The beach and the bush.

You and your sister were the first female twins in the Police Force which is such a remarkable milestone. What was that experience like, and what effect did it have on your lives?

Joining the police together was comforting when you had your sister and best friend to lean on. We had moved from the country to the ‘big smoke’ Sydney, so that was a huge adjustment for us both. We obviously had individual police careers and experiences at

different police patrols. Early on in our careers we did have some work that overlapped, with some hilarious outcomes. Throughout our careers we both understood the risks, the strains and the struggles of being a police officer and could offer each other support when it was needed.

I eventually resigned from the police and worked with the corrective services working out of the courts, and then my husband and I have continued to work in our criminal law practice, here in Coffs Harbour, for twenty years. I think compared to my twin I have a good overview of the criminal justice system looking at it from different perspectives.

Kylie had a longer police career, and transferred to the remote town of Bourke, or the Back ‘O’ Bourke as it is commonly referred to. It was while she was stationed there that she met her husband. She eventually ended up living on a

very remote cattle station on the NSW Queensland border for over twenty years.

Twins often have incredible “twin moments.” What are some of the funniest or most surprising “twin things” you’ve experienced that made it into the book?

Until we sat and started writing our memoir, I don’t think we really understood how many things have been mirrored in our lives, sometimes at the same time...

Twin moments have occurred throughout our lives and we have touched on how nature and nurture, may or may not have influenced these moments. We have had many similar medical events, one big one that we are both going through right now, is breast cancer.

Some things that have occurred are very hard to explain or understand like how I produced breast milk when my twin sister gave birth. My twin begged me to come and live with her for a few months and do the night feeds!

Writing a book with a sibling must be both rewarding and challenging. How did you and your sister approach the process of telling your shared story?

Due to our geographical distance writing a book together has been challenging, and has taken a bit longer to write than we thought.

Our book is a rare dual memoir so there was lots of planning involved. We have taken great care that we are not telling the same story twice. Each chapter has two parts ‘Reef’ and ‘Beef’ told at parallel periods of our lives.

Even after all our planning, at times, and by accident or perhaps twin telepathy, we both wrote about the same story or incident.

There were lots of ‘discussions’ and we had to decide which twin would get to keep that piece in their own section.

The book covers your lives up until age 50. Looking back, what has surprised you the most about reflecting on five decades of experiences together?

Until we sat and started writing our memoir, I don’t think we really understood how many things have been mirrored in our lives, sometimes at the same time, and sometimes years apart. Our husbands for example, have similar physical features and similar values and beliefs. It’s not until you write about this that it actually stands out.

Were there any moments while writing where you discovered new things about each other, even after a lifetime of being so close?

I think the first thing we discovered was we were actually very fortunate to get past five years of age. We were very mischievous, actually naughty, as young children and survived

some scary events.

When I read my sister's section of the book, I didn’t realise how much she didn’t like being a twin during adolescence. She wrote about the struggle of being constantly compared and I was oblivious to this when growing up. My twin jokes that she didn’t realise my memory for some of our life events had faded so easily, maybe I tried to forget.

Finally, with the book now out in the world, where can we find a copy or get more information?

The book is an easy read. Grab a wine or a cuppa, find a nice spot to sit under a gum tree next to your caravan, or relax in a beach chair listening to the waves and enjoy our story. You can purchase our book through our webpage reefandbeeftwins.com.au or at any good book store. The book is also available as an E book.

COFFS COAST focus 23

From kicking a ball around the backyard in Urunga to representing Australia at the Tokyo International Football Tournament, young footballer Charlie Phillips has already packed plenty into his journey. Now, with an offer to join the Newcastle Jets Academy, he’s taking the next big step towards chasing his dream of playing professionally.

E I L R A CH S P I L L I PH

H

i Charlie! When did you first start playing football, and what do you love most about the game?

I started playing football when I was six with Urunga Football Club in the Mini Roos. That’s where it all began for me. I remember being so pumped just putting on my first kit and running out onto the field with my mates. I loved it straight away. What I enjoy most about football is how quick it is; the pace, the intensity, and how you’ve always got to think fast. Every game feels different, and I like how you’ve got to make decisions in a split second.

One of the best highlights from my early years was when my team, the Urunga Raiders U13’s, became both minor and major premiers. That was such an unreal moment. To win both in the same season with my mates made me proud of how far we’d come. It showed me what can happen when everyone works hard together, and it made me even hungrier to keep improving.

Outside of training, I spend heaps of time in the backyard with goals, rebound nets, and kicking off the fence. I even practice in my room sometimes, which can annoy my parents, 24 COFFS COAST focus

but it helps me sharpen up my touch, passing, and shooting. I just like being around a ball as much as possible.

It was unreal! Playing in Tokyo was something I’ll never forget. Getting the chance to compete against teams from all over the world was amazing. Every team had a different style, and Who has been the biggest influence on that made the games really tough but also your development as a player so far? exciting. It wasn’t just about winning, it was That would have to be my coach at Urunga about learning. I got to see how players my Football Club, Jaxen Heward. He coached me age from other countries play, and it made me for seven years, and honestly, he’s been massive realise how much more for me. When I was there is to learn about younger, I didn’t really football. Representing my back myself, but Jaxen Getting the team overseas felt special, pushed me, showed me chance to it made me proud and what I could do, and compete against also hungry to improve. helped me get heaps teams from all How did playing better. He taught me to over the world was internationally stay switched on, play amazing. Every team challenge or inspire smart, and keep fighting you as a player? had a different style, even when things don’t go my way.

and that made the games really tough but also exciting.

My parents are also my number one supporters. They get me to training, games, and tournaments, and they’re always there cheering me on and are proud of me no matter what.

You were selected to play in the Tokyo International Football Tournament, what was that experience like?

The thing that stood out most was how quick and organised the other teams were. They moved the ball so fast, and you couldn’t switch off for a second. I had to make decisions way quicker than I was used to. At first, it was pretty full-on, but then I started to adjust, and it gave me heaps of confidence. It showed me that all the extra training, whether it’s in the backyard, at training, or messing around

with a ball inside, really helps in high-pressure situations. It also inspired me to work even harder because I could see the level I want to get to.

My parents have backed me the whole way.

They told me that as long as it’s what I want and it makes me happy, they’ll support me 100%.

Congratulations on your offer to join the Newcastle Jets Academy! Can you tell us how the opportunity came about, and what went through your mind when you first heard you’d been invited to train with them?

Thanks! The chance came from playing at Northern NSW tournaments. I was also part of the SAP program with North Coast Football for four years, which taught me a lot of technical skills and how to play properly as a team. After that, I played PYL 13’s and 14’s for North Coast Football in the Newcastle competition. That was tough because the teams down there are really strong, but it helped me a lot.

When I got told about the Jets Academy invite, I was stoked. Honestly, it felt a bit unreal at first, but then I thought about all the training and hard work I’ve done over the years, and I knew I wanted to grab the opportunity.

How difficult was the decision to accept the offer and relocate to Newcastle?

It wasn’t easy. Leaving my family, friends, and home will be hard, but I also know chances like this don’t come around every day. My parents have backed me the whole way. They told me that as long as it’s what I want and it makes me happy, they’ll support me 100%. That means a lot and has made the decision easier.

I realised this is the next step if I want to get better, so even though it is a big move, it feels like the right one.

What excites you most about taking this next step in your football journey?

I’m excited about so many things. Training every day at an academy is going to be great.

I’ll be around top players who are serious about football, and that will push me to be better. I’m also keen to learn from my coaches, they’ve got heaps of knowledge, and I want to pick up everything I can. Playing against fast-paced Sydney teams is another big one.

The speed and physicality of those games will challenge me, and I’m looking forward to

testing myself against that level of competition.

It’s all about seeing how far I can go and improving every time I step on the field.

What goals have you set for yourself during your time at the academy?

My main goal is just to keep improving. I want to get sharper technically, fitter, and better at making decisions under pressure. I’d like to become more consistent too, so I can play at a high level every week and not just sometimes.

I also want to learn as much as I can from my coaches and use it in games. Another goal is to enjoy the experience, football is more fun when you’re enjoying it, even if training is tough.

Looking further ahead, what’s the dream and what are your aspirations for your future in football?

The dream is definitely to play professional football. I’d love to play in the A-League one day and maybe even overseas if I can.

But I also know football can go in different directions, so I hope that even if I don’t end up playing pro, I can still have a career in football.

Coaching is something I’d love to do one day.

No matter what happens, I want football to always be part of my life.

Thanks Charlie.

COFFS COAST focus 25

OCTOBER

COFFS COAST SAFET Y SUMMIT

5

WHS pros, regulators and leaders share practical strategies for physical and psychological safety. When 5th November Where: C.ex Coffs Tickets and details via neonshed.com.au

5

24 11 JACARANDA FESTIVAL

STARSHINE

GRAFTON

Tribute to Stevie Nicks & Fleetwood Mac With a new guitarist and fresh spark, Starshine delivers classic hits, big harmonies and the iconic vibes you love. Gather your Mac-loving crew and sing along to the soundtrack of a generation, just don’t break the chain, all night long, together!

When 11th October Where Cex Woolgoolga Tickets cex.com.au

17

HARBOURSIDE MARKETS

JUNIOR OZTAG AUSTRALIAN

You can’t get more local than this! Your favourite food trucks, art, jewellery, clothing, beauty and lifestyle products, plants, vintage and collectible stalls.

Harbourside Market’s philosophy of ethical and fair-trade, locally made, and locally grown guarantees you a unique experience.

When 5th October (every Sunday) Where Jetty Foreshore Time 8am until 2pm

The Australian Oztag Sports Association hosts the Junior Australian Championships annually and the event will be held at C.ex Coffs International Stadium. The event showcases the talent of Junior teams from all over the nation as they compete against each other in the three-day tournament.

When 17th until 19th October Where Cex Stadium

26 COFFS COAST focus

Celebrate purple blooms, parades, markets, music, and family fun. All Ages welcome.

When 24 October until 2nd November Where 1 Prince Street, Grafton NSW. Time Events daily; check program.

24

DORRIGO FOLK &

BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

Three days of acoustic concerts, workshops, jamming and dance; family-friendly, inclusive, alcohol-free venues. When 24–26 Oct 2025 Where Dorrigo Showgrounds (4180 Waterfall Way) Tickets and lineup online dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au

CELEBRATE YOUR

CHRISTMAS

Celebrate the year your way with tailored packages, private spaces, and rooftop vibes. Kick off with barefoot bowls, then enjoy food, drinks, and festive fun.

Contact our Events Team today to book functions@cex.com.au | 02 6652 3888

IN STYLE AT BASKE ROOFTOP BAR SCAN TO VIEW EVENT PACKAGES

Local historian Jade Symons has launched a powerful interview series that shines a light on the stories of REFUGEES, NEWLY SETTLED FAMILIES, AND FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN COFFS HARBOUR. INSPIRED BY HER CLOSE CONNECTION WITH THE YAZIDI COMMUNITY, Jade’s project seeks to amplify diverse voices, celebrate resilience, and foster deeper understanding in her hometown.

Jade Symons

i Jade. As a professional historian and local to Coffs Harbour, what first inspired you to start your interview series?

Five years ago, I met a wonderful Yazidi (Iraqi) family and in no overstatement, that changed my life. We have formed a beautiful relationship and my husband and I have been embraced by the welcoming, open and hospitable wider Yazidi community. This is a community that has fled terrorist attacks, experienced genocide and faced many of our worst fears. Yet, their capacity for love is unwavering, and as I say to people; I have had a deeper and more enriching education from rainy evenings at their home than I ever experienced from textbooks or an educational institution.

Through this relationship, I’ve been able to see up close how hard it is for refugees and people from diverse backgrounds to settle here. There’s the confusing paperwork, language barrier and cultural differences to navigate, however I very quickly found that the broader Coffs Harbour community

28 COFFS COAST focus

is unaware of the presence and histories of many migrant groups here and that’s how the inspiration for the interview series was born.

The project amplifies voices from refugees, recently settled people, and First Nations community members. Why was it important for you to focus on these particular stories?

After moving back home, I noticed the social and demographic landscape of Coffs Harbour had changed dramatically since I grew up here. I’ve now learned that Coffs Harbour is named a 'Refugee Welcome Zone' by the NSW Government, and through the Humanitarian Settlement Program more than 5,500 refugees from Burma, Iraq and other areas have settled here. Further, close to 7% of the local population identify as Indigenous (double the national average).

Knowing this information, I feel very strongly about ensuring both in policy and socially that we are embracing and acknowledging this new role Coffs Harbour is playing to different communities. This project is my contribution to that.

You’ve described the series as an imperative step towards embracing, supporting and acknowledging diversity in regional towns. What has the response been like from the Coffs Harbour community so far?

People have been so open and excited about this project. I often have people reach out to share their own stories or connect me to individuals I should interview. Local organisations really see a place for this project within the community and the Coffs Coast Multicultural Society has been an absolute pillar for me in developing, supporting and motivating. They have been incredible!

Some of the narratives you’ve documented are deeply moving; like women fleeing the Taliban or the resilience of Iraqi families. How has hearing these stories impacted you personally?

Listening to these stories, I have found a deeper gratitude and really focus on giving

the mundane its beautiful due. I also feel an immense pride and honour to be in a position to listen and document. People often tell me they haven’t shared their story before, which is such a privilege. I always aim to interview in a way that the stories are uplifting and empowering for the individual and audience rather than one of hurt and trauma.

ethical protocols throughout my studies. I have learned that listening, not imposing my own ideas and growing a deeper understanding of my own biases are central principles to me. In this, I see that my role is to hold the microphone for these community members, not be the one speaking.

Looking ahead, how do you envision You’ve also included stories from this series evolving? Are there plans for Gumbaynggirr a book, exhibitions, Knowledge Holders. or even expanding How important is beyond Coffs I often have it for you to centre Harbour? people reach First Nations voices The dream plan is to out to share their alongside those publish a book of all the own stories or of newly arrived stories. I am currently connect me to communities? working with a handful individuals I should I feel like we live in the of local community interview. Local most beautiful place groups, meeting with organisations really in the world (big and Rotary, and applying see a place for this subjective, I know) fervently in the project within the and I have always felt background for grants. such a deep respect community and Hopefully I can build up and connection to this the Coffs Coast a ‘bank’ of stories and land I grew up on.

Multicultural use these as resources Having worked with Society has been an for teaching or a podcast Community and Elders, absolute pillar for series too.

I have been privileged me in developing, What do you hope to learn of the supporting and readers take away incredible significance motivating. from engaging with and importance of these stories? this Country. For me, the beauty of I hope it connects us Coffs Harbour/ Garlambila is stored in the each a little more. Coffs is a small world stories of the Gumbaynggirr People and the and some of these people might be your community. It’s important, not only in this neighbours, or is the nurse that looks after interview series but in my work and studies, you. I hope for readers to understand the to understand the history of place and great diversity and assets we have here in our people. I see this as a way to best protect, local community. preserve and enjoy our home.

Where can we view your work or find Your work requires a high level of ethical out more? and cultural sensitivity. Can you share Please get in touch if you are interested! some of the principles that guide your Whether you know someone who would approach? be ideal to sponsor, partner or support this I am very lucky to have been guided by project, email me jasymons.50@gmail.com Indigenous Knowledge Holders across Blog | The Guest various Countries, from the Yolngu people jasymons50.wixsite.com/the-guest/blog of Arnhem Land to the local Gumbaynnggirr Thanks Jade. community as well as various academic and COFFS COAST focus 29

Brandon C O A S T A L

H A R V E S T

Coastal Harvest isn’t just about great food, for owners Brandon and Ellie Wilson it’s about connection, opportunity, and celebrating the people and produce of the Coffs Coast. In just a few short years, they’ve built more than a burger shop, creating a space where locals feel proud, young people get their start, and community spirit is always on the menu.

H

i Brandon. Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired that first marquee at the Twilight Food Markets in 2020?

I started in hospitality at 15, working parttime at McDonald’s while still at school.

That job opened doors to roles in kitchens, catering, sales, and management as I moved from Byron to Sydney. By 2020, I’d returned to the Coffs Coast with close to a decade of experience and noticed little happening locally in catering. Wanting to stay sharp and challenge myself, I decided to give it a crack.

The Twilight Markets felt like the perfect place to test an idea. When I asked what to cook, the coordinator simply said, “Burgers.”

So with a marquee, a couple of hot plates, and some helping hands, Coastal Harvest was born. That one stall showed me the power of starting small and backing yourself.

Starting a food business during the pandemic must have come with its challenges. Your online-only burger kitchen was very innovative and a first 30 COFFS COAST focus

for Bellingen. How did that idea come about, and what was the community’s initial response?

COVID brought challenges but also the chance to think creatively. The markets gave us momentum, and seeing the rise of dark kitchens in the cities sparked an idea.

Bellingen’s small delivery radius made it manageable, and locals were craving comfort food. We launched a backyard food trailer with an online menu, hit the pavement to drop flyers, and spread the word through Facebook groups. It quickly built a loyal following. At first, we juggled the markets, catering events, and the dark kitchen around our 9-5 jobs until Ellie went full-time, then I joined her. Feedback from those first customers refined our menu and systems, and many still order every week!

Moving into a permanent space on Bellingen’s iconic Church St, or “Eat Street”, was a big leap. How did it feel when you first opened the doors?

Taking a lease on Church Street was a massive leap for us! Real overheads, staffing, and consistency. The very same day we got

approved for the shop, we also found out we were expecting a baby. Suddenly it wasn’t just about the business; it was about building stability for our family. When we first opened and the orders started coming in, it was relief, pride, and validation all at once. It gave us the confidence to keep growing.

Now, two years on, how has the bricksand-mortar store changed things for Coastal Harvest?

The shop transformed Coastal Harvest from a side hustle into a structured business with systems, a consistent product, and a team.

Becoming an employer has been a highlight, giving young people in town their first job, teaching skills, and building confidence.

It’s also allowed us to establish a recognisable brand for both locals and visitors, and to think beyond just keeping the doors open.

Now we’re focused on refining, growing, and creating opportunities for our team and community.

The name Coastal Harvest reflects your ethos of sourcing local. Why is working with local suppliers so important to you?

Coastal Harvest has always been about

Summer is when the energy in town peaks and our training and systems shine. The season also brings a busy run of weddings and functions, which remain an important part of our business.

celebrating what’s grown and produced around us. Sourcing locally keeps our menu fresh, ensures quality, and strengthens the community. It keeps money circulating here and creates a stronger network for everyone.

From day one we wanted to be more than a burger shop, we wanted to connect people to good quality comfort food and show that when locals back each other, everyone benefits.

You and Ellie have built Coastal Harvest into more than just a food business, it’s also become a first workplace for many local kids.

Why was creating that opportunity important to you?

Can you tell us about some of your supplier partnerships that feel especially meaningful?

In a small town, opportunities for young people are limited, so giving them a first job felt important.

Hospitality teaches teamwork, resilience, and responsibility, and when the culture’s right it’s also fun. Backing young staff has given us a motivated, adaptable team and kept the business energetic. Over time, creating opportunities for our team has become just as central as the food we serve.

Our closest partnerships are with producers we see weekly. Jesse from Lore Sodas, Craig from Coffs Coast Mushrooms, and the team at Hearthfire, who’ve been baking our buns since day one. Tom from Gut Instinct Kombucha has also been on the menu since the beginning. Cedric from Hangry Wolf BBQ smokes our brisket, Coast and Plateau supply meats, dairy, and small goods, while Louis at Valley Quality Meats handles butcher specials. Beyond that, we aim to keep everything high quality, ethical, and fair trade wherever possible.

What has surprised you most about building and managing a young, motivated team?

How quickly they learn! Young staff pick things up faster than we expected and bring energy that pushes the business forward.

They’re also willing to contribute ideas, and when you listen, they rise to the occasion and often exceed expectations.

What excites you most about the summer season ahead and how do you see Coastal Harvest evolving over the next few years?

Summer is when the energy in town peaks and our training and systems shine. The season also brings a busy run of weddings and functions, which remain an important part of our business. Looking ahead, our focus is on raising the standard of food and service, creating an even better workplace for our team, and cementing Coastal Harvest as a true Bellingen staple - known for fresh (not fancy) comfort food and for leaving a lasting mark by bringing people together and ultimately, supporting the community that supports us.

Thanks Brandon.

COFFS COAST focus 31

COOK FELICITY B AS K E T B A L L C OF FS S U N S

Fresh off coaching the U14 Suns girls to a hardfought State Cup victory, Felicity Cook is celebrating not just a title win but a triumph for country basketball. The Suns’ success is a testament to teamwork, determination, and community spirit.

H

i Felicity. Congratulations on leading the U14 Suns girls to a State Cup victory! How does it feel to bring home such a significant title?

It’s exciting to bring a State Cup Title back to Coffs Harbour. We are a small Country NSW Association and only one of three country NSW teams to claim a title this year. Everyone involved with this team and around the club are immensely proud of their achievement.

What do you think sets this team apart and helped them dominate the competition?

This team was the true definition of the word team. They bonded together off court singing karaoke, swimming in pools around the state, scaling Wild Nets, playing putt putt to name a few, and as a result they truly came together on the court. Everyone knew their role and stepped up when they were called upon. The bench energy and their basketball IQ grew as the season progressed, and they were able to understand the many elements within the game. All ten players are super determined and flat out competitors. I wouldn’t stand in their way! Their commitment and effort at training enabled Kristy (assistant coach) and 32 COFFS COAST focus

I to set the bar high, and they kept raising it every time. Our wonderful managers Michelle H and Michelle P took great care of everything all year and we were lucky to have them both.

Coaching young athletes comes with unique challenges. What was your approach in preparing the girls both mentally and physically for such a big tournament?

Physically, we trained hard all season with extra fitness sessions and scrimmages against older Suns and even boys’ teams to build the intensity and physicality needed to match stronger metropolitan teams. Mentally, we talked often about managing nerves and pressure, staying focused and in the moment, and setting small, achievable goals. Each game, we took it quarter by quarter, with players given clear roles and defensive tasks.

Even when we were down, they stayed composed and fought back - showing grit and belief in themselves and each other. More than anything, I hope they learned to trust their team, give 100%, and enjoy the game.

At this age, keeping girls in sport means finding the right mix of fun, development, accountability, and high standards.

Beyond the result, what moments from the State Cup weekend stand out most

for you as a coach?

It is hard to go past the buzzer at the grand final to see the girls and parents embracing one another and shedding some tears of elation! Also our last team talk where I got to thank all the families, coaches, managers and players for buying into everything I asked of them over the season. The girls have spent many hours travelling in the car with their families up and down the highway, so it was just a wonderful sight to see everyone so happy! They have done their bench duties, sat court side during training, cheered from the sidelines and been a wonderful group of supporters. The other highlight was our team dinner where the parents were able to socialise, and we surprised the girls with a State Cup Shirt with their names printed on it as part of their fundraising efforts to get there! They attended raffles at the Toormina Hotel and ran a successful ‘Pie Drive’ to help with the cost of travel, accommodation, and game fees. Thanks to everyone in the community who supported the team.

The girls showed real determination and teamwork. What qualities in this group of players impressed you the most over the season?

Their attitudes. They were always up for a

They are all talented and I hope now showing them what they can achieve, that they believe in themselves and continue to work to be the best players and people they can be.

challenge, whether in training drills trying to better their previous attempts or in games and scrimmages. They never let each other down and were such an upbeat positive energy group that anyone would be happy to coach!

They stuck to our game plans and were able to find the right way to win, which was together. Our word for the year was 'synergy' and they were able to bring that to life on the court, everyone stepping up at various times and when it mattered. Special mention to our two excellent captains, Grace and Coco who led by example and brought the team together. Another factor with this team was their defensive toughness and decision making. Their ability to execute something we had practised, or I had drawn up 10 seconds before, was excellent, and that certainly helped us in those crunch times.

Winning a state title is a huge milestone at this age level. What do you hope this achievement inspires in the players moving forward, both on and off the court?

I hope it sets their love of basketball on fire.

They are still young, some of them only in their second or third year of representative basketball. Hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard!

They are all talented and I hope now showing them what they can achieve, that they believe in themselves and continue to work to be the best players and people they can be. I hope that they keep playing this great game because it brings you so much more than wins, it teaches you life lessons, gives you lifelong friendships and creates some wonderful memories you will be able to cherish and look back on long after you finish taking the court.

Basketball is growing strongly in regional areas like Coffs Harbour. What role do you think this win plays in raising the profile of the sport locally?

I hope it shows smaller regional towns that they can mix it with the bigger associations.

I hope it inspires the next wave of U/10 and U/12 girls to give basketball a go at domestic and Aussie Hoops level, and I really hope these players continue to be role models for our younger hoopers. They have already

been helping to coach our U/11 Rising Suns development program and are always present at our Wednesday night Junior Girls Competition representing the Mantas and Narwhals. Even if they never win another title again, they have so much to offer and are such wonderful role models to those around them.

What’s next for the U14 Suns? How do you plan to build on this success for the future of the team and the club?

This is just the beginning for these talented girls. With nine girls selected for Basketball NSW High Performance Pathways (HPP) and many stepping into higher age groups, the future is bright. They will compete with the top players around the state at events such as D League, Southern Cross Challenge (SCC), Australian Country Junior Basketball Cup (ACJBC) and Hero's Challenges in Sydney, Melbourne, and Albury in the coming months.

As a club, we are committed to growing stronger, offering top-tier coaching and development to help every athlete reach their potential both on and off the court. 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger for the Suns, so if you're ready to give basketball a go, now's the time to join us!

Thanks Felicity.

COFFS COAST focus 33

THE FINAL CHAPTER. DON’T MISS IT. 5 YEARS. 5 SUMMITS. 1 MISSION: MO DA MOVING BEYOND AWARENESS TO ACTION.

COFFS COAST T MIT SAFETY SUMMIT DATE 5 NOVEMBER

COFFS HARBOUR C.ex

Join us for the 5th and final Neon Shed Summit mit - the Coffs Coast Safety Summit on 5 November 2025.

025.

A day of real conversations, practical tools and d powerful stories. Be part of history in the making. king.

Hear from: SafeWork NSW & SIRA NSW Blyde Neser - Ubuntu: Rediscovering Humanity in Teams Patrizia Cassaniti - The Reality of What Tragedy Looks Like Coffs Bypass WHS Manager Leigh Mehmet - Practical Strategies for Frontline Leaders Dr Caroline Howe & Nicole Turnbull - Tough Talks & Teamwork: The Leadership Toolkit Kerrie Sellen - Shame, Blame & Punishment: Why They Fail 34 COFFS COAST focus

neonshed.com.au/CoffsSummit

USE THE CODE: FOCUS TO GET $100 OFF

• CO

CUS • D

E

ING GU

F

O

ID

F

S

IN

F

COAST

COFFS COAST focus 35

COVER. Bar Que Sera is Sawtell’s Mediterranean-leaning wine bar: generous plates, char and citrus notes, seasonal menus, serious by the glass list, weekly Cellar Raid, warm service, and lively coastal vibes.

BAR

Que Sera

H

i guys, tell us a little about each of you.

Recently reopened under new ownership, Bar Que Sera brings Mediterranean spirit, a serious wine program, and warm hospitality to Sawtell. LED BY HOST JASON PENROSE (JP), WINEMAKER DUANE ROY (DR), AND CHEF MITCHELL PHILLIP-TAIT (MT), THE BAR PAIRS GENEROUS, SEASONAL SHARE PLATES with an ever-evolving wine list by the glass and bo le, designed to turn good nights into great memories.

36 COFFS COAST focus

DR: I’m the GM/Winemaker at Glandore Wines (Hunter Valley) for 20+ years and with a chef background, food/wine have always been my heartbeat.

MT: Ex–Whalebone Wharf Executive Chef; I’ve cooked in Michelin-starred and hatted kitchens. My style is produce-first, clean, shareable.

JP: Corporate/consulting background; lifelong love of great food, great wine, and a buzzing room.

Why Sawtell? and why Bar Que Sera?

JP: Sawtell has been our families’ happy place for two decades. Duane’s my brother-in-law; and our kids learned to surf here. Taking on Bar Que Sera felt like giving back to a community that’s given us so much.

What’s your vision for the bar?

market, sometimes daily. For Aperitivo: snacks, cured meats, cheeses, spritzes, and wines by the glass.

How important is the local community?

WE WANT TO BE THAT EASY, ANY-OCCASION SPOT, SEND YOUR FRIENDS, TAKE YOUR FOLKS, OR DROP IN AFTER THE BEACH.

DR: Comfort with a little curiosity, plainenglish notes, lots by the glass, an easy nudge to try something new.

JP: It’s everything.

JP: Hospitality, not homework, expect conversation and banter.

MT: We want to be that easy, any-occasion spot, send your friends, take your folks, or drop in after the beach.

MT: Food that matches: generous, seasonal, designed for the table.

What’s changed since reopening?

DR: The wine list. After three decades in wine, I’ve built a broad, benchmark-to-leftfield selection by glass and bottle. We’ve also launched Duane’s Cellar Raid, aged bottles from my own cellar, released weekly in tiny quantities. When they’re gone, they’re gone.

Mitch, how would you describe the menu?

MT: Mediterranean with whispers of North Africa, char, citrus, herbs, olive oil, texture.

Dishes are built to share and move with the

DR: We source local beer, gin, and produce wherever we can.

Biggest challenge or surprise so far?

JP: We thought staffing would be hardest, but we’ve built a terrific team. The learning? Be hands-on and visible, guests love meeting the people behind the idea.

DR: Reopening means many small decisions, every day. We taste, tweak, improve.

What makes Bar Que Sera unique on the Coffs Coast?

shareable.

JP: Plus monthly wine & food events, producer tastings, regional spotlights, varietal deepdives, each matched to dishes that make the flavours sing.

9) What’s next? Events,

plans, dreams?

DR: By the time you read this, we’ll have hosted our first event; the next is slated for 18 October. Four courses matched to eight wines from around the world.

MT: Expect steady menu updates as new produce comes in.

JP: We’re exploring a small wine club, relaxed Sunday lunches, and collaborations with local makers.

How do we book or get in touch?

DR: A wine-first bar with a serious kitchen, generous pours, effortless education, no jargon.

JP: Head to bar-que-sera.com for bookings, menus, and event news. Follow our socials for the latest Cellar Raid drops, and come say hi in person. We can’t wait to pour you something delicious.

MT: Food with intent: bright, seasonal,

Thanks guys.

COFFS COAST focus 37

DARK ARTS CAFE & BAR The something unexpected, behind that laneway door...

6.30am, 7 days (brekky/lunch) | functions | parties Cox Lane, Coffs Harbour darkartscafeandbar.com.au I (02) 6600 1505 laneway@darkartscafeandbar.com.au

R

BO

Located in the heart of the Coffs Jetty Strip, Element Bar is one of Australia’s most popular & vibrant venues. Delicious food, an incredible range of drinks, live music | midday til late, 7 days (lunch/dinner) 380 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour Jetty I (02) 6651 6655 www.elementbar.com.au I pretzel@elementbar.com.au

U R

C O F F S

H

A

ELEMENT BAR

Must Es

BAYSIDE BAR AND GRILL Bayside Bar and Grill's Karaage chicken burger packs a punch! Asian slaw, miso mayonnaise, pickled cucumber, tomato, avocado and lettuce served on a milk bun w’ fries – YUM! Open 7 days for breakfast and dinner. Pacific Bay Resort – Cnr Pacific Hwy and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour I pacificbayresort.com.au 38 COFFS COAST focus

DONOVANS SURF CLUB & LINK From ocean views to garden surrounds, enjoy fresh, local flavour at

From ocean views to garden surrounds.

Enjoy fresh, localplus flavour DONOVANS. Breakfast, lunch and house-made treats, ChefatMatt’s DONOVANS. Breakfast, lunchand andexciting house-made treats, plus Chef Matt’s famous seafood chowder seasonal specials. famous Seafood Chowder seasonal specials.

Surf Club: 23 Surf Club and Rd, exciting Coffs Harbour Surf Club: 23 Surf Club Rd, Coffs Hbr Link: 631 Hogbin Drive I donovansvenues.com.au Link: 393 Harbour Dr, Toormina donovansvenues.com.au

passionate chefs and genuine service, we’re all about great food, great coffee and community. Open for breakfast & lunch 7am – 2pm daily. Bookings recommended. Fully licensed.

1/18 Market Street, Woolgoolga, Phone: 6654 8361

R

BO

U R

C O F F S

H

A

Wednesday nights - 4 course set menu and Thursday Nights - French Bistro Night. Fresh, innovative and delicious. Open for dinner from 5pm, Wednesday to Saturday. 99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour (02) 6699 2606 | www.99onpark.com.au

SAWTELL RSL

COAST HOTEL

SATURDAY SEAFOOD SMORGASBORD Dive into a mouthwatering selection of premium seafood including fresh prawns, succulent oysters, juicy mussels, tender calamari, and a rotating variety of hot and cold seafood dishes.

Priced at just $65 for members and $75 for non-members Bookings are essential so call (02) 6653 1577 to reserve your table

Welcome to the Coast Hotel in Coffs Harbour, where dining is more than just a meal, it’s something to share with family and friends.

Our restaurant offers a diverse menu crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying a delightful lunch, or indulging in a gourmet dinner, our venue ensures a warm and inviting atmosphere.

2 Moonee Street, Coffs Harbour, 66523007, coasthotel.com.au

Must Es

PAPAVEROS PAPAVEROS Located ground floor C.exCoffs, Coffs,Papaveros Papaveros boasts boasts an Located on on thethe ground floor atatC.ex an Italian Italianstyle style setting offering delicious pizzas,pastas, pastas,authentic authenticItalian Italian entrees entrees and setting offering delicious pizzas, andmains mains a selection delicious dessertsprepared preparedby byour our Italian Italian trained plusplus a selection of of delicious desserts trained chefs. chefs.

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5.30pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5.30pm Coffs 2-6 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour | (02) 6652 3888 CexCex Coffs 2-6 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour | (02) 6652 3888

EM’S WINDMILL KITCHEN

BAYSIDE BAR AND GRILL

Filipino cuisine has found a home in one of Coffs Harbour’s most Bayside Bar and Karaage chicken burger packs Kitchen a punch!offers Asian rich iconic spots - aGrills’ Dutch windmill!

Em’s Windmill slaw, miso mayonnaise, pickled cucumber, tomato, avocado & lettuce Filipino flavours in a warm, welcoming space, blending culture, served on a milk bun w’ fries – YUM! community, and heartfelt hospitality.

Open 7 days for Breakfast and dinner. Pacific Bay Resort – Cnr Pacific (02) 6602 9820 | emswindmillkitchen@gmail.com Hwy and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour | www.pacificbayresort.com.au www.windmillemskitchen.com @emswindmillkitchen

40 COFFS COAST focus

GROUND EARTH CAFE WOOLGOOLGA Tucked away in Woolgoolga, Ground Earth Café serves exceptional BASSETT coffee, fresh local produce and delicious brunch. With passionate chefs and genuine service, we’re all about great food, great coffee and community. Open for breakfast & lunch 7am – 2pm daily. Bookings recommended. Fully licensed.

1/18 Market Street, Woolgoolga, Phone: (02) 6654 8361

HORIZONS RESTAURANT & BAR-OPAL COVE Party season is here – book now for your work christmas party!

Our new spring/summer dinner menu launches 21st October, crafted

by Head Chef Maurizio Pocino. Enjoy fresh, seasonal flavours and irresistible desserts.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner – 7 days a week.

COFFS COAST focus 39

B R I N G I N G A TA S T E O F T H E PHILIPPINES TO COFFS HARBOUR

A New haer 

Filipino cuisine has arrived in one of Coffs Harbour’s most iconic spaces - A Dutch Windmill! Em's Windmill Kitchen Lutong Bahay blends rich Filipino flavours with a unique se ing, creating a warm, welcoming space unlike any other in town.

A

s the area’s only Filipino restaurant, it’s all about culture, community, and heartfelt hospitality. We spoke with the husband and wife team behind the transformation to learn more about their journey, vision, and what locals can expect on the menu.

What inspired you to transform the iconic windmill into a Filipino Restaurant & Bar? It was an opportunity that came by, and we saw the potential to breathe new life into an iconic space by blending its charm with the rich flavours and culture of the Philippines. The windmill already had a strong character, and transforming it into a Filipino Restaurant & Bar felt like the perfect way to honour that while introducing something fresh and meaningful to the community.

40 COFFS COAST focus

Why did you choose Coffs Harbour as the location to bring Filipino cuisine to life?

Can you tell us about the team behind the restaurant?

We’re locals, so it felt natural to bring Filipino cuisine to a place we already know and love.

Coffs is a diverse and growing region, and we saw a gap in the food scene for authentic Filipino flavours. It felt like the perfect place to introduce something vibrant and close to our hearts.

We’re a husband and wife team, both from healthcare backgrounds. I was a nurse, and my husband worked in health services and security.

As a single mother for many years, I found joy and resilience in cooking. When my husband came into our lives, he encouraged me to follow my dream. Now, our two children work with us too so it’s truly a family-run restaurant built on love, hard work, and shared passion.

How do you balance preserving the charm of the windmill with introducing a new cultural identity?

Preserving the windmill’s charm was very important, it’s a beloved local landmark. We focused on enhancing it by introducing Filipino elements in a respectful and complementary way. It’s a fusion of old and new, familiar and fresh where the windmill’s history continues, now with a vibrant Filipino heart.

What are some traditional Filipino dishes diners can expect?

We serve classic Filipino favourites like Beef Kare-Kare, Caldereta, Adobo, Lumpiang Shanghai, and Sinigang. We also offer vegetarian options like Tofu Adobo and Tofu Sisig. For dessert, guests love our Leche Flan and Halo-Halo, a colourful, icy treat layered

with sweet beans, fruit, and jellies.

that joy with others.

Are there any modern twists or fusion elements?

How does Filipino hospitality shape your dining experience?

We’re staying true to tradition. While we offer some vegetarian twists, our focus is on authentic, home-style Filipino cooking, just like it’s been enjoyed for generations.

How do you ensure the flavours remain authentic while appealing to a broad audience?

We stayed true to our roots, but we also did taste testing with friends from different backgrounds. The feedback has been great and it reassures us that authenticity resonates when it’s done with heart.

What does “meals that come straight from the heart” mean to you?

It means cooking with passion, care, and love just like for family. Service is just as important as what’s on the plate. As first-time owners, we’re learning every day, but leading with heart is our compass.

Are there dishes that hold personal meaning?

I just love cooking in general. When the kids were little, I loved recreating dishes we discovered together. Filipino food has always been our comfort and joy and now we share

We treat every guest like family, offering generous plates and a warm welcome.

It’s about more than just food, it’s about connection.

Hospitality is at the heart of Filipino culture. We treat every guest like family, offering generous plates and a warm welcome. It’s about more than just food,it’s about connection.

Will the restaurant feature Filipino drinks or desserts locals might not know?

Yes! We serve Filipino beers like Red Horse and San Mig Light, and desserts like Ube Cheesecake, a fun twist on a classic using the purple yam loved in Filipino sweets.

Are there plans for live music or events?

Definitely! We've hosted birthdays, graduations, and christmas parties. We’re especially excited about our collaboration with Heart Farm at the end of September for three nights of live cosmic country music.

How has the community responded so far?

The response has been amazing. People love the food, the vibes, and the novelty

of eating Filipino food under a windmill. It’s been heartwarming to see locals embrace the transformation.

What impact do you hope to have on the Coffs Harbour food scene?

As the only Filipino restaurant in town, we hope to introduce more people to the richness of our cuisine while creating a welcoming space where stories are shared and memories are made.

If someone’s new to Filipino food, what should they try first?

Start with Adobo! It’s simple but rich in flavour, made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. It captures the essence of Filipino home cooking: humble, comforting, and full of love.

How can people make a booking?

We welcome everyone, from small groups to bus tours.

02 6602 9820 emswindmillkitchen@gmail.com windmillemskitchen.com @emskitchenlutongbahay @emswindmillkitchen COFFS COAST focus 41

NICOLA MACKIE Bellingen Kindness

KITCHEN

Bellingen Kindness Kitchen has become a lifeline for locals facing food insecurity, with a passionate team of volunteers turning rescued and donated produce into hundreds of nourishing meals each week. At the heart of the project is Nicola Mackie, who shares how kindness, community spirit, and teamwork are making a tangible difference across the region.

H

i Nicola. What is the concept behind Bellingen Kindness Kitchen and how has it evolved into what it is today?

We are a volunteer-led group who all have a passion for helping our community. We prepare nourishing meals each week from donated food mostly from OzHarvest. Our aim is to support people in our local communities experiencing homelessness or food insecurities, so they may feel supported and cared for. As a meal provider we have grown from solely delivering meals to “Pete’s Place” Coffs Harbour, to bringing the focus to our more immediate community, reaching out to local hubs such as Bellingen “Lifehouse Care Pantry”, Bellingen and Urunga Neighbourhood centres, the “Youth Hub” and our local primary and high school. We’ve gone from making single meals to now including family meals, as the cost of living rises we hear of more and more families struggling to make ends meet.

What does a typical "busy day" look like behind the scenes in the kitchen?

42 COFFS COAST focus

It actually all starts on Tuesday the day before ingredients when needed. we make meals, when we receive a delivery As a group we try to share the load as much from OzHarvest, this is rescued food that as possible. Our day in the kitchen typically would otherwise go to landfill. I then sort the ends by 2pm. Some meals are then delivered food and create our menu for the following to local drop offs, others are collected and the day. Come Wednesday we have a core crew rest are organised by Amber to be delivered of 8-10 volunteers who to Pete’s Place by one of come in at staggering our wonderful rotating times from 7am. Myself volunteer drivers. On We’ve gone and Jacquie do the average we make around from making cooking but wouldn’t 350 meals that day. get anywhere without single meals to now The project is run our amazing team of including family entirely by volunteers kitchen hands - Amber, meals, as the cost of like you, how does Sandy, Clare, Selena, living rises we hear it feel knowing the Kerry, Pippa, Andrew, of more and more meals you provide are Gillian, Ryan and John families struggling to going to people facing who start off early homelessness or food make ends meet. setting up the kitchen, insecurity right here in prepping food, then our community? moving on to packing I think collectively, we up the meals and washing up the mountains feel privileged to be in a position where we of dishes. We then have the lovely Annette can give back to our community in a positive looking after our breakfast window, which and meaningful way, and hope those facing was her genius idea to welcome locals and food insecurities and hard times receiving our campers in for a brekkie roll or cake for a meals not only feel supported but feel the donation, which we use to purchase extra

love and care put into making their meals and see it as a sign that they are not forgotten.

All donations big or small are greatly appreciated.

We also invite the community to pop down for brekkie and make a donation.

The initiative relies on donated food from local gardens, Oz Harvest and even Bellingen High School’s ‘Growing for Purpose’ project. What do you think is special about having so many different community groups contributing?

Earlier on in the year we decided to share with the community who we were and what we do. We did this by using social media to invite locals to come down to the Showgrounds and see first hand what we do. We not only did this to spread awareness of the quickly rising issue of homelessness but also everyday families struggling to feed their families. We used this platform also as a way to call out for donations of any surplus veggies from growers gardens also offering breakfast rolls for a cash donation. We believe in a time when so many of us are time poor, giving the wider community an opportunity to contribute in whatever capacity they can makes it special, as it gives people the opportunity to also be a part of something meaningful.

The meals are distributed through a range of organisations like the Neighbourhood Centre, Youth Hub, Lifehouse Care Pantry

and Pete’s Place. How important is that network to making sure food reaches those who need it most?

We believe building strong relationships and regularly checking in with each organisation is important as it helps us gauge where the meals are most needed, and what the demand may be, whether it be more single meals or family meals.

What do you wish more people in the community knew about food insecurity in Bellingen and beyond?

That it’s important to remember one doesn’t need to be homeless to be struggling to access a nourishing meal, and how quickly someone’s personal situation can change. There are a wide range of situations one can be experiencing that may make them vulnerable to food insecurity, such as teenagers raising younger siblings, elderly living alone, single parent households and even those struggling with mental health.

What are your hopes for the future of Bellingen Kindness Kitchen?

In a perfect world, we would hope to no longer be needed but in reality, we know that won’t be the case. We hope to continue to be of service providing meals where they are

needed. We are also working towards meal provision during a natural disaster and what that would look like. As we are situated on the north side of Bellingen we often find ourselves with restricted bridge access during a flood.

How can the community continue to get behind this project or get involved?

We always welcome anyone in the community to drop by on Wednesday between 8:30am 12:30pm to make any food donations.

Veggies, dry goods like pasta, rice, and tinned tomatoes are regular staples we use. If you are a local business or farmer with surplus stock please feel free to contact us through our Facebook page @ Bellingen Kindness Kitchen. All donations big or small are greatly appreciated. We also invite the community to pop down for brekkie and make a donation.

We would especially like to thank the Bellingen Showgrounds for their continuing support by providing us the use of not only the luncheon pavilion where we do all cooking, but also the use of their garage for the storage of our food, equipment, including multiple fridges and freezers and pantries. A lot of this equipment was generously donated by the Lions Club which we are so thankful for. Without such community support like this Bellingen Kindness Kitchen would not be the operation it is today. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our cause.

Thanks Nicola.

COFFS COAST focus 43

focus_contributor.

wine Without Rules

with DUANE ROY W I N E M A K E R AT GLANDORE AND CO-OWNER OF BAR QUE SERA

THE IMPORTANCE OF BOTTLE SIZE IN WINE CELLARING

W

hen most people think about cellaring wine, they focus on grape variety, vintage, or storage conditions. One factor often overlooked however, is bottle size. The size of the bottle can significantly influence how a wine matures and, ultimately, how it tastes when the cork is finally pulled.

The science is simple. Wine ages through a slow oxidation process, controlled by the tiny amount of oxygen that seeps through the cork and the dissolved oxygen in the wine at bottling. In smaller bottles, the ratio of oxygen to wine is higher, meaning the wine matures more quickly. Larger bottles hold more wine but interact with oxygen at the same rate, so they age more gracefully and often stay fresher for longer. Go too large, though, and the bigger cork surface area comes into play.

If you’ve got the patience and the budget then yes, bigger bottles can deliver extraordinary results. But they come with a trade-off: time.

44 COFFS COAST focus

I remember visiting Barolo years ago and being shown a cellar lined with 5-litre bottles. The winemaker told me, “You need 30 years for these wines to be at their best.”

What he really meant was that the bottle size demanded it. They’d just bottled the incredible 2021 vintage; with 30 years to wait and me already hitting 50, I decided to grab a dozen half bottles instead!

That said, there’s something unforgettable about sharing a truly large format with friends and family. One of my fondest memories is wrangling a 15-litre Nebuchadnezzar with two mates it took all three of us to ease the cork out after fishing it from an old bathtub full of ice.

Beyond the theatre, magnums remain the sweet spot for collectors and entertainers alike: perfect for a table of eight, slower to age than standard bottles, and a showstopper when poured. So, whether you’re tucking away a Jeroboam for the kids or simply rolling out a well-aged magnum for friends, remember - when it comes to cellaring, size does matter.

Experience the

Ultimate Seafood Smorgasbord AT S AW T E L L R S L

L

ooking for a night out that truly satisfies your seafood cravings?

Look no further than the Seafood Smorgasbord at Sawtell RSL, held every Saturday night from 6pm. This legendary local event has become a must-do for food lovers on the Coffs Coast, offering an indulgent all-you-caneat experience that showcases the freshest seafood and more.

Dive into a mouthwatering selection of premium seafood including fresh prawns, succulent oysters, juicy mussels, tender calamari, and a rotating variety of hot and cold seafood dishes. But it doesn’t stop there, our smorgasbord also features delicious roasts, seasonal salads, sides, and an irresistible dessert buffet to round off your meal.

Priced at just $65 for members and $75 for non-members, it’s exceptional value for a night of gourmet indulgence. Plus, kids aged 2–12 can enjoy their own feast for only $20, making it the perfect evening out for families, couples, and groups alike.

With a relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and a spacious dining area, Sawtell RSL

provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy great food with great company. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, the Saturday Seafood Smorgasbord is a local favourite for a reason.

Bookings are essential so call 02 6653 1577 to reserve your table today and experience this delicious tradition for yourself..

COFFS COAST focus 45

46 COFFS COAST focus

COFFS COAST focus 47

JoinTWC

The Wellness Company

W

hat is The Wellness Company and what makes it different?

Our referral program allows members to earn income simply by sharing what they love.

The Wellness Company is a vibrant community focused on empowering individuals to take control of their health, wellness, and financial future. What sets us apart is our people-first approach. We combine high-quality wellness products, like our popular Sei Bella line, with real opportunities for personal and financial growth.

Not at all. In fact, you can join for just $1.

That low-cost membership gives you access to exclusive product benefits, training resources, and the potential to grow a business that fits your lifestyle.

What can new members expect when they join TWC? From day one, you’ll gain access to premium wellness products, practical training, and a supportive community. Whether you’re here to focus on your personal health goals or build a business, you’ll find a place with us.

48 COFFS COAST focus

Is it expensive to get started?

What kind of support does TWC offer?

We’re proud of our collaborative, encouraging environment. You’ll connect with like-minded individuals who cheer each other on and share strategies for success. Plus, you’ll gain skills in sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship that benefit every part of your life.

Who is TWC ideal for?

Anyone looking for flexibility, purpose, and community. Whether you’re starting a side

hustle, launching a new business, or simply improving your wellness routine, TWC gives you the tools to thrive.

Final thoughts?

If you’re ready to elevate your wellness journey and explore new opportunities, there’s never been a better time. Join us today and discover what’s possible with The Wellness Company.

Events

&

Functions

COFFS COAST focus 49

CELEBRATE BAYSIDE PLAN YOUR PERFECT

CHRISTMAS

CELEBRATION STUNNING INDOOR & OUTDOOR VENUES ~ INCREDIBLE FESTIVE MENUS ~ BEVERAGE PACKAGES FOR EVERY BUDGET

(02) 6659 7000

fbsupervisors@pacificbayresort.com.au

Book before the end of OCTOBER and go into the draw to WIN a $200 dining voucher !

50 COFFS COAST focus

www.pacificbayresort.com.au

DONOVANS TROPIC NIGHTS Friday, 24 October 2025 5-9pm

Celebrate the warmer evenings at Donovans with a night made for family and friends.

• • • •

Relaxed atmosphere – enjoy dinner in the restaurant, grab a picnic table, or pull up a rug on the grass.

Family fun – lawn games to play and space for the kids to enjoy.

Live music – setting the perfect soundtrack to your evening.

Delicious food – a share-plate style menu designed for laid-back dining.

Bring the whole family, settle in under the stars, and enjoy an evening of food, fun, and music at Donovans Tropic Nights. Follow our socials for more dates to come this Spring/ Summer.

Book now at donovansvenues.com.au or call 0435 653 588

COFFS COAST focus 51

52 COFFS COAST focus

COFFS COAST focus 53

Jane& Wayne INTRODUCING

Barron F NEW OWNERS O MARKETS D O O F T H IG IL W T OUR IN COFFS HARB

54 COFFS COAST focus

As Moonee Beach locals, Jane and Wayne Barron are excited to continue the legacy of the Twilight Food Markets in Coffs Harbour with a focus on supporting local family-run small businesses and creating a vibrant platform for local entertainers.

W

hat inspired you to take on the Twilight Food Markets?

Although some musicians may travel a few hours, I am committed to providing a platform for new and upcoming performers based in Coffs, like Orara High student Dylan Wigley.

We believe the What does “community-focused” mean to Park Beach you personally?

Reserve is a jewel of the coast, and the Friday For me, it means celebrating who we are as night Twilight Food Market is an opportunity Coffs locals, showcasing our unique talents for our community and visitors to experience and ensuring Twilight is an inclusive space for the best of our Coffs Coast. We were inspired every part of our community. to take the market on because we have been Any sneak peeks or exciting changes vendors for 14 years with our own food trucks we can expect this and can see the positive season? impact the Twilight Absolutely! Firstly, markets has had on our Locals can local community. we have had a layout enjoy a change, so expect to find What can the wide variety of a new favourite spot to community international food, sit. We also have a new expect under your connect with family stage, which elevates the ownership? and friends in an musician and brings a Our aim is to see the inclusive space, ‘festival’ vibe to Fridays.

Friday Twilight Markets and meet up for My most favourite be a destination for special occasions in a thing is the new ‘Fourth locals and visitors beautiful location.

Friday 4 Kids’ initiative. to experience FREE On the fourth Friday of amazing music on our each month, kids can new stage. Locals can experience Reptile World’s mobile snake show, enjoy a wide variety of international food, Country Haven’s petting zoo and get their face connect with family and friends in an inclusive painted all for $5! space, and meet up for special occasions in a beautiful location.

Will Twilight still be focused on local vendors and performers?

I’m really proud of the many start up food vendors we have this season at Twilight, like the Taiwanese stall-Seyachi. All of the food stalls are owned by local families living local.

How can local businesses or performers get involved?

Everyone is welcome to connect with me on Facebook: Twilight Food Market- Coffs Harbour, or email me at twilightmarketcoffs@gmail.com Thanks guys.

COFFS COAST focus 55

H

i Nicole. 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of Camp Creative, which is an incredible milestone! What does this achievement mean to you and to the Bellingen community?

For a little town like Bellingen to be home to an event that’s been running for forty years, says so much about the strength and creativity of this community. Camp Creative began in 1987 with a simple idea: give people the chance to learn something new, connect, and enjoy being creative together. To see it still thriving four decades on is testament to all the people who were involved in the early years that built it up into what it is today. I’ve only been with Camp Creative since 2023, Rob and Michelle Stockton were the coordinators before me, and they have been living and breathing Camp Creative for 25 years.

For Bellingen, the event is part of the town’s heartbeat. For a week every January, our town gains around 750 people (75% of our students come from outside of the Shire).

Locals love the buzz, and businesses see a real boost too. But more than that, it’s something the community can feel ownership of, we’re celebrating not just the camp’s anniversary, but the way Bellingen has supported and embraced creativity for so long.

56 COFFS COAST focus

For readers who may not have experienced it, how would you describe the magic of Camp Creative in just a few words?

Joyful. Inclusive. Unexpected. There’s this feeling of excitement in town during camp week. Students travel from all over Australia (with a handful coming from overseas too), singles, couples and whole families come, to spend the week learning and having fun. Some are absolute beginners, others are professionals, but the joy is the same.

The camp offers over 80 workshops across music, art, design, and more. How do you go about curating such a diverse and inspiring program each year?

There are 95 courses in the program for 2026.

Some tutors are much-loved regulars, and others are brand new and bring fresh ideas and energy. Currently, the courses are chosen by a sub-committee as it is too difficult for me to make all the decisions alone! The first thing we always need to consider is the fact that Bellingen is a small town, there is a limit to how many classrooms we have. We hire pretty much every public hall and space in town, plus two of our schools. So once that limit is figured out, then the equation is a bit like this: a few regular favourites + something for the kids + a big chunk of new courses.. then this all gets evened out across the genres, ensuring there is something for everyone.

C R E A T I V E

For forty years, Camp Creative has brought colour, music, and inspiration to the heart of Bellingen, growing from a small community idea into one of the region’s most beloved annual events. As the camp prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2026, we spoke with coordinator Nicole Ruigrok about the magic, milestones, and meaning behind this much-loved tradition.

C A M P

Nice Ruigrok

The course proposal form is always available on the website: campcreative.com.au/run-a-course.

One of the beautiful things about Camp Creative is that it welcomes both beginners and seasoned artists. How do you ensure there’s something for everyone?

For beginners, we have lots of workshops designed to be fun and approachable, no pressure, just the chance to try something new in a supportive space. For more experienced artists, we bring in tutors who are leaders in their fields, so there’s plenty of depth to explore.

Over four decades, the camp has no doubt touched thousands of lives. Do you have a favourite story or memory from past participants that captures its spirit?

A student spoke of her joy at having three generations of her family together at the event, with Camp Creative becoming an annual tradition.

One of our tutors, Suzi Zglinicki, was introduced to Camp Creative by her sister about 25 years ago. The next year she brought along her husband and two kids and has been attending Camp Creative almost every year since then.

After a few years of doing writing courses, she decided to try out a watercolour course and was so inspired she went on to study fine art at the National Art School, where she earned her

PhD. Back in 2020, Suzi was attending another watercolour course at Camp Creative, when the tutor suggested she apply to be a tutor herself!

Suzi is now our Watercolour & Ink Tutor and her course sells out every year.

Camp Creative really is a special and unique event in Australia. A chance to spend time with family, a partner, or friend, and an opportunity to meet fellow creatives and make new connections.

Bellingen is such a picturesque and creative town. How does the location itself contribute to the atmosphere of the camp?

Bellingen is the perfect canvas for creativity. The mountains, the river, the rainforest, it’s such a naturally inspiring place. People arrive and instantly feel like they’ve stepped out of the everyday and into something special.

The town itself adds to the magic. We’re lucky to live in a place with a strong year-round creative culture, and that really shines during camp week. Schools, halls, and community spaces all become classrooms. Cafes and parks turn into meeting points where participants swap stories and show each other what they’ve been working on. It feels like the whole town is in on it.

With the 40th anniversary coming up, are there any special plans, performances, or surprises participants can look forward to?

Plans for our evening events are very much under wraps! We’ve got a few surprises up our sleeves, but the main focus is on honouring the legacy of the camp while making sure it feels fresh, exciting, and forward-looking.

It was so good walking in each door and having a chance to talk to students and put faces to names. It is really exciting seeing the creative works in progress and feel the enjoyment of everyone there.

As coordinator, what’s the most rewarding part of seeing Camp Creative come to life each year?

What I really loved this year was visiting all of the classrooms. It was so good walking in each door and having a chance to talk to students and put faces to names. It is really exciting seeing all of the creative works in progress and feel the enjoyment of everyone there.

I love watching connections form. Total strangers arrive on Monday morning, and by Friday they’re laughing together, performing together, sometimes even planning to meet up again the following year. Those friendships and bonds are just as valuable as the skills people learn.

What do you hope participants take away from the 40th anniversary camp in 2026, and what do you see for the future of Camp Creative beyond this milestone?

I’d love for people to feel part of something bigger, a tradition that’s been running for forty years but is still evolving. I want them to leave feeling inspired, energised, and more confident in their own creativity. Whether they go on to pursue art or music in a big way, or simply carry that spark into their everyday life, it’s

all valuable.

Looking forward, I see Camp Creative continuing to grow in reach. I’d love more people from outside our region to discover us, but I also want to protect that intimate, community-driven feel that makes it unique.

People are hungry for connection, and creativity is one of the best ways to build it.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

The best place is our website: www. campcreative.com.au. That’s where you’ll find the full program, ticketing, and plenty of photos and stories from past years. We’re also on Facebook and Instagram, where we share updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes moments.

Thanks Nicole.

COFFS COAST focus 57

I

N

C

O

F

F

S

Professional wrestling is set to take over the Coffs Coast with Chaos in Coffs, a high-energy spectacle hi ing C.ex Coffs Harbour on Saturday 1st November 2025. We caught up with local wrestler Luke McKenna, be er known in the ring as Craven, to talk about his journey, the vision behind the event, and what fans can expect on the night.

i Luke, as a wrestler yourself, what inspired you to bring professional wrestling to the Coffs Coast?

Well Coffs Harbour is a beautiful part of the world... and is now my home. I relocated from Perth W.A as my wife is a Coffs Harbour local and introduced me to this beautiful area five years ago.

It seemed like an untapped market that had everything we could want and more - fantastic people, unique local businesses and great live entertainment venues. It was a no brainer.

Can you tell us a bit about your own journey in wrestling and how it shaped your vision for Chaos in Coffs?

I have been wrestling for 21 years this year. It is my heart and soul and I could never imagine not being involved in 58 COFFS COAST focus

LUKE McKENNA

wrestling. I want to use this opportunity to give back to the community and most importantly the fans that have shaped my entire life and allowed me to travel the world.

I have had some of the most memorable moments of my life because of wrestling and I want to give other people memorable moments too.

That inspired the vision for Chaos in Coffs - to make memorable moments, whether it is for a lifelong fan, or a complete newcomer. Wrestling is about making moments.

Pro Wrestling League has a reputation for selling out major venues in Queensland, what makes this promotion stand out from other wrestling brands in Australia?

Pro Wrestling League is a longstanding wrestling company in Queensland with a reputation of unique talent and professional showmanship.

We pride ourselves on high quality performances and production, an inclusive and professional atmosphere and unforgettable fan experience. With every show, each detail is curated to ensure that the entire show from the moment the fans arrive is special.

What can fans expect on the night in terms of atmosphere, energy, and the kind of wrestling action they’ll see?

Attendees can expect family friendly fun, high energy atmosphere and an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere is family focused, with an emphasis on getting the crowd involved in the show and enjoying a night out at one of Coffs Harbour’s premier entertainment venues.

PWL has an extensive roster of talent, both interstate and international that each bring a unique energy to ensure that every fan has someone to connect with.

Fans can expect high flying manoeuvres,

emotional storylines and electrifying entertainment for the whole family, that will have them screaming and cheering.

Wrestling is known for combining athleticism with storytelling. How do you balance those elements to create a night that appeals to both hardcore fans and newcomers?

Weight Championship has been proposed to be defended. And in a recent signing of a red hot international talent to make their debut in Australia, we are extremely excited and humbled to be hosting New Japan Pro Wrestling LA DOJO Graduate: ‘The Middle East Ace’ Shaheen from Dubai.

Each show, and each crowd is different.

Ultimately, the audience energy fuels the show. Their involvement and reaction tell us what is right or wrong.

For people who might have never been to a live wrestling show before, what makes attending in person such a unique experience?

It’s a tricky line to balance, but with unique shows like this one there is more freedom to move. The stories can be bite sized and contained to the one show, so newcomers leave satisfied. Long term fans can support their favourite wrestler’s journey with some tantalizing glimpses into future stories and sneak peeks of what’s to come.

The atmosphere. The fans bring something only they have - their energy.

Wrestling is a live action entertainment show, and it is nothing without the fans.

Seeing the raw emotion, the stories and feeling the adrenaline up close and personal is amazing.

This is the first time PWL is coming to Coffs Harbour, why do you think this town is the perfect place for an event like this?

Coffs harbour is a fantastic place to be. Sandwiched between the beautiful beaches and the incredible hinterland, it was an obvious choice for a premier wrestling production. There are so many things to do on the Coffs Coast, but we are adamant that Coffs Harbour deserves to experience all the PWL has to offer. In my experience, venues located in smaller cities can be an incredible crowd to entertain - they are energetic, involved and heartfelt, which feeds our talent to work harder, and in turn creates a more vibrant show. We are excited to see how the Coffs Harbour audience will get involved.

Beyond the action in the ring, what do you hope Chaos in Coffs brings to the local community and entertainment scene?

We want to bring something different to Coffs Harbours nightlife. Something that the whole family can enjoy together - kids can cheer and scream and marvel at the costumes and the athleticism and their parents can have a night out knowing everyone is entertained and having

a good time, while also enjoying the atmosphere and showmanship and some food and drinks themselves.

We have teamed up with several local businesses to ensure that we are doing our part to boost Coffs Harbour's local economy while we are here and secure a future opportunity to return to Coffs Harbour. We are championing local by using the platform we have for the show to showcase not only PWL, but all the local businesses that have made the show possible by spreading the word and supporting the endeavour.

Looking ahead, do you see this as a oneoff spectacle, or the start of a long-term wrestling presence here on the Coffs Coast?

I would love for the Pro Wrestling League to visit Coffs Harbour more than once.

Only time will tell, but with the way tickets are selling, it looks promising. If you want to experience a fantastic night out, don’t wait too long to get your tickets, they are selling quickly at cex.com.au.

Thanks Luke.

Can you give us a sneak peek into some of the rivalries or match-ups fans should be most excited about?

We have an incredible roster for Coffs harbour. Expect to see some of Australia’s best Professional Wrestlers such as: Mitch Ryder (QLD), Jake Nova (QLD), Bobby Bishop (QLD), lil Marz (QLD) and Craven (WA) in action. The Queensland Open COFFS COAST focus 59

Events Made Easy AT PA R K B E AC H B O W L S C LU B , C O F F S H A R B O U R

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT VENUE TO HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT IN COFFS HARBOUR?

W

hether it’s a wedding, birthday, corporate function or community celebration, Park Beach Bowls Club offers one of the most versatile and welcoming spaces on the coast. With tailored packages, and a dedicated events team, it’s no wonder the club is a local favourite for all kinds of functions.

We spoke to Nikki Muñoz, Functions Manager and Head Chef, Blake Wittenberg to find out what makes their events and functions stand out.

What types of events can people host at Park Beach Bowls Club, and how do you cater to such a wide variety?

Park Beach Bowls Club is set up to handle a wide range of events, from casual get-togethers to more formal functions. The reason we can cater to so many types is that we offer many flexible spaces. We have function rooms of different sizes, outdoor areas, the greens and 60 COFFS COAST focus

still relatively new alfresco café dining area.

We have varied food and beverage packages offering set menus, buffets, platters, BBQs, custom catering, and a dedicated events team who can adapt packages to suit the style and budget of each event.

What makes your venue unique compared to other function spaces in the Coffs Harbour region?

Our venue stands out in the region for its combination of location, versatility, and service.

We offer a modern, flexible space that can be tailored to suit a wide range of events. Guests enjoy not only the convenience of our central location but also the relaxed coastal atmosphere that makes Coffs Harbour so special. What truly sets us apart is our commitment to delivering a personalised experience, from customised menus showcasing local produce to attentive staff who ensure every detail is managed seamlessly. This balance of professionalism, warmth, and local charm makes our venue a unique choice for any occasion.

Can you tell us about your catering options for functions? Are there packages for special dietary needs or themed menus?

Our Head Chef, Blake Wittenberg, brings exceptional creativity and skill to every dish.

The platters featured here are just a glimpse of the quality and presentation guests can expect.

We take great pride in offering not only delicious platters, but also specially designed menus tailored to suit each event. It’s this combination of craftsmanship and flexibility that makes our catering stand out.

Nikki, what’s your favourite part about hosting events here at PBBC? “My favourite part about hosting events at PBBC is taking the stress out of organising such events and seeing our guests enjoying themselves, surrounded by family and friends.

Creating an atmosphere where people can relax, celebrate, and share memorable moments together is truly rewarding.”

Thanks guys.

COFFS COAST focus 61

From the cricket pitch to the concert stage, SIX & OUT HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT MATESHIP, MUSIC, AND A WHOLE LOT OF FUN. AFTER MORE THAN TWO DECADES SINCE THEIR DEBUT, THE BAND OF CRICKETING LEGENDS TURNED ROCKERS ARE BACK, bringing their high-energy show to Coffs Harbour and Laurieton.

62 COFFS COAST focus

a lexicon of Aussie sport, and our song is always associated with that. It hit home to us at our first gig in 23 years when the crowd belted it out word for word. We couldn’t believe people would remember us let alone know the words to Can’t Bowl Can’t Throw.

After 23 years, you’ve made a huge comeback with a sold-out national tour and the rockumentary Six & Out: The Second Innings. What made now the right time to reunite?

ix & Out was born in the SCG dressing room more than two decades ago. Can you take us back to those early days? How did cricket mates turn into a rock band?

Music has always been a huge part of cricket dressing rooms. Robbo had played in bands all his life and challenged Shane and myself to learn guitar so we could start a band. Shane and I did that during a stint in County Cricket in England. We came back and enlisted Cheeks, who grew up singing through his Samoan and Fijian heritage. Brett, a fresh addition to the NSW Squad wanted in, but the only place left was as the bass player. He went out bought a bass and Six and Out was born!

Your song “Can’t Bowl, Can’t Throw” became a cult anthem in the late ’90s. Did you ever imagine back then that the song, and the band, would have such a lasting impact?

We had no idea we would ever play a song in public, let alone record an album with the legendary Garth Porter of Sherbet! Can’t Bowl Can’t Throw was more a tongue in cheek look at things we had stuffed up at certain stages of our life than the incident itself. Never in our wildest dreams did we imagine the song would have a lasting impact. Intrigue remains over who said it, Cameraman Joe or Warnie (it was 100% Joe!). Joe’s famous words became

Killers through to The Rolling Stones, you’ll love a Six and Out gig! We’re more AC/DC than Teddy Swims!

How does it feel to step back on stage as musicians after being celebrated for so long as cricketing greats? Do those worlds still overlap for you?

Hard to compare, but there are similarities. On the cricket field, even though you were part of a team, at times you’re on your own and very vulnerable to all that are watching. It’s Even as close as we had remained, life gets the same on stage playing in front of a live in the way and we all drifted off into our audience, there is nowhere to hide. When it own little bubbles with families and work. all comes together and we nail a show, there’s As happens all too often, it takes a shock or no feeling quite like it. Yeah, it was great tragedy to bring everyone back together. Gav scoring a 100 or taking 5 for or winning a Robbo’s diagnosis with cricket match, but I don’t Stage 4 brain cancer in think the high you get as On the cricket 2019 was the catalyst. a cricketer gets near the field, even For years we’d been adrenaline of nailing a looking for an excuse to live gig. though you were get back together, we part of a team, at The band has been were never going to get times you’re on known for surprise a better one than this. guest appearances your own and very As Robbo said at the by some big names. vulnerable to all that time, he had to make a Can we expect any are watching. It’s decision to live or die, special cameos or the same on stage he made the decision collaborations this playing in front of a to live, and we were tour? live audience, there is going to do everything We always say you never nowhere to hide. in our power to give know who will turn up at him something to look a Six and Out gig. We’re forward to. In many not going to give anything away, but I will say, ways Six and Out is as much about mateship “expect the unexpected!” than anything else.

What does the future hold for Six & Out, You’ve always had a reputation for can fans look forward to more tours, bringing energy and humour to your music, or projects? live shows. What can fans in Coffs It took a bit longer than it should have, but Harbour and Laurieton expect from these we’ve realised life is precious and it’s not a upcoming gigs? dress rehearsal. We’ll keep on playing as long The number one thing people tell us as people want to keep watching us! With after watching us for the first time - "we the Ashes coming up this season, we have a didn’t realise you guys can actually play!” huge summer of touring planned and working Individually, we’re not the most polished on some collaborations with The Barmy Army. musicians you will ever hear, but we pack a There’s even talk we may get back in the punch on stage and pride ourselves in putting studio with our old mate Garth Porter and on a great show that leaves people with a record some new tunes. Stay tuned, our best smile on their face. If you like classic Aussie is still to come! rock, mixed with some of the best-known rock Thanks guys. songs from artists like The Foo Fighters and COFFS COAST focus 63

64 COFFS COAST focus

Jacaranda G R A F T O N ’ S

season

M Y

C L A R E N C E

V A L L E Y

COFFS COAST focus 65

Jacaranda G R A F T O N ’ S

season As the town of Grafton prepares to bloom in vibrant purple, the Clarence Valley Council tourism team, My Clarence Valley, share their hot tips to enjoy this sensational season on Bundjalung and Gumbaynggirr Country.

66 COFFS COAST focus

S

o Jacaranda Season… what exactly is it?

Ulmarra

Jacaranda Season is that time of year, late October into November, when Grafton really comes alive. Home to the largest amount of Jacaranda trees in one town, visitors travel from all over the world to wander under the Jacaranda blossoms, snap a few photos and soak up the atmosphere. For locals, it’s a season that brings the community together and a time we always look forward to. The flowers are beautiful, but it’s also about the sense of pride, the annual festival, events and the opportunity to enjoy nature in an urban setting.

away from residential houses. From here you can walk the tree lined streets to get those perfect shots. We ask visitors to be respectful and safe. Common sense is needed when parking or taking photos, and private property remains private. Then head into the CBD and to Market Square, the festival homebase, where you’ll find Jaca Jill (the famous giant kewpie doll) and lots of events.

Where are the Jacaranda trees around Grafton?

Tell us about the festival?

It might be easier to ask ‘where aren’t the trees?’ With more than 1700 Jacaranda trees in town, you can’t miss them! This map helps you easily ‘lose yourself’ in the purple haze, (without, er, literally getting lost.) To make life even easier, we’ve done the hard yards for you and checked out all the best places to get those Insta-worthy shots. Don’t forget to tag us @myclarencevalley in your shots so we can turn our socials purple.

The Jacaranda Festival is a perfect mixture of traditional celebration and fresh events that take place over a 10-day period. While it continues to offer long-standing community celebrations, like parades, live music, and heritage events that locals have enjoyed for decades, it is also evolving new attractions, modern installations, and the evening spectacular Illuminate. This welcoming, all-inclusive, all-weather festival is a fun balance of honouring the past while embracing the present. Festival events run from October 24 to November 2 but the trees

Where’s the best place to start?

We recommend parking the car at See Park where there are ample car parking spaces

This welcoming, all-inclusive, all-weather festival is a fun balance of honouring the past while embracing the present. Festival events run from October 24 to November 2 but the trees play for a li le longer!

play for a little longer!

What kind of events can we expect during the festival?

As always, the festival will include family favourites such as the Royal Party Crowning, Float Procession, Venetian Carnival and the famous Jacaranda Thursday street party. Guests should also get their dancing shoes on, shake it all about and join us as we take on a Hokey Pokey Australian record attempt on Saturday Nov 1st. Jaca Haunts is also a new evening event that will take visitors on a haunted bus tour around Grafton and end in the new House VanChaos – join us if you’re brave enough! A full festival program and tickets are available at jacafest.com Continued over...

COFFS COAST focus 67

A great selection of exhibitions will be on display from Sept 27 - Nov 13 including ‘Beyond the River’; ‘Ken Done is my Dolly Parton’; ‘Speaking in Colour’ and Bidhiinja.

Tell us more about Illuminate?

art and culture is in

This incredible evening experience, Illuminate, allows you to admire the trees in See Park after dark. Spot-lit to stunning effect daily from dusk to 10:30pm, you can now enjoy the beauty of the trees well after the sun goes down. Kicking off on Friday October 17 with live music, food trucks and bar, you can see the trees in a new light, every night until November 9.

the heart of town, and

What’s happening at the Grafton Regional Gallery during Jacaranda Season?

a load off those tired

Oh this is a goody! This hub of contemporary

here and chat to locals about the best things

68 COFFS COAST focus

home to Sweet Layers Café for those morning tea sweet treats, the Gallery Store for Jaca merch and artisan gifts plus the famous big purple chair – perfect for a selfie and to take

feet! You can also pick up visitor information

to see and do.

And the exhibitions?

A great selection of exhibitions will be on display from Sept 27 – Nov 13 including:

BEYOND THE RIVER: Beyond the River is a celebration of female First Nations artists from the Clarence Valley, who have dared to look beyond the river’s banks, drawing inspiration from its unseen depths and expansive reach.

KEN DONE IS MY DOLLY PARTON: Leona DeBolt - DeBolt studied the Ken Done works held in the Gallery’s collection and went on to spend time with Done in his Sydney studio.

Beginning as a love letter to her art idol, this exhibition quickly became an immersion in the complexities of influence and creative identity.

SPEAKING IN COLOUR: Ken Done - An icon of Australian art, Ken Done is a name synonymous with colour, vibrancy, and originality. For the first time in years, this exhibition brings to light a selection of the many Ken Done prints held in the Grafton Regional Gallery Collection.

BIDHIINJA: restoring our oyster reefs - A new exhibition developed by the Australian National Maritime Museum in collaboration with NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Bidhiinja tells the forgotten history of oyster reefs in New South Wales and the work now underway to restore these important ecosystems.

What else should I do while I’m there?

We’re glad you asked! With so much to see and do in around the region we can’t let you visit without recommending a trip to Ulmarra, the quaint, quirky river village just to the north of Grafton. Home to art galleries, craft shops and great food, this is a must visit.

Take a leisurely stroll and follow one of the many heritage trails we have mapped in the region, including Grafton, Maclean, Ulmarra and Yamba or visit one of the many museums or art galleries while you’re here. Maps and more info can be found on our website myclarencevalley.com

COFFS COAST focus 69

18 OCTOBER to 10 NOVEMBER

RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP!

GRAFTON JACARANDA FESTIVAL 24 OCTOBER TO 2 NOVEMBER

ILLUMINATE (JACARANDAS AT NIGHT) 17 OCTOBER TO 9 NOVEMBER

For more information on what Grafton’s Jacaranda Season has to offer, including the full festival program go to: myclarencevalley.com/jacaranda or scan the QR code below.

70 COFFS COAST focus

COFFS COAST focus 71

72 COFFS COAST focus

COFFS COAST focus 73

74 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

EMPOWERING EACH OTHER IN A RELATIONSHIP

BUILDING A STRONGER BOND TOGETHER

R

elationships thrive when both partners feel valued, supported, and empowered. Empowering each other in a relationship is not just about offering encouragement; it is about creating a partnership where both individuals can grow, achieve their goals, and feel secure in their connection.

Empowerment in a relationship means fostering an environment where both partners feel confident, respected, and capable of achieving their personal and shared goals. It is about creating a balance where both individuals can thrive without feeling overshadowed and undervalued. When empowerment is present, relationships become a source of strength, resilience, and mutual growth.

Open and honest communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, fostering trust and understanding between partners. By expressing needs, desires, and concerns without fear of judgment, couples can build a stronger connection. To achieve this, practice active listening by giving your partner your full attention and validating their feelings, even if you do not entirely agree with their perspective. Equally important is sharing your own thoughts and emotions with honesty, creating a safe and supportive space for vulnerability and mutual respect.

Celebrating each other’s strengths and

achievements is vital for fostering a supportive and uplifting relationship. Recognising your partner’s efforts and accomplishments, whether big or small, not only boosts their confidence but also reinforces their value within the partnership. Show genuine appreciation by acknowledging their hard work, celebrating milestones like career successes or personal growth, and encouraging them to pursue their passions. By offering unwavering support for their goals, you create a foundation of mutual respect and shared joy.

Fostering independence and growth within a relationship is essential for building a strong and balanced partnership. True empowerment lies in encouraging each other to grow as individuals while maintaining a deep connection. This can be achieved by respecting each other’s need for personal space and time, supporting the pursuit of hobbies, interests, or career opportunities that bring joy and fulfilment, and being a constant source of encouragement. By offering motivation and standing by your partner during challenges, you create an environment where both individuals can thrive together and independently.

Empowering one another means standing together through life’s challenges, which can test a relationship but also offer opportunities for growth and deeper connection. Navigating tough times requires practising empathy by understanding your partner’s perspective and

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

offering emotional support. It also involves working as a team, approaching obstacles as a united front to find solutions together. Lastly, reaffirming your commitment by reminding each other of your shared goals and the strength of your bond helps to reinforce trust and resilience within the relationship.

When both partners feel empowered, the positive impact extends far beyond the relationship itself. Empowered individuals exhibit greater confidence, resilience, and the ability to make meaningful contributions to their personal lives and communities.

Together, such a partnership becomes a source of inspiration, exemplifying mutual respect, support, and the strength of a truly collaborative bond.

Empowering each other in a relationship is an ongoing process that requires effort, understanding, and commitment. By fostering open communication, celebrating each other’s strengths, and encouraging personal growth, you can build a relationship that is not only strong but also deeply fulfilling. Remember, a truly empowered relationship is one where both partners shine, individually and together.

Until next time, be kind and gentle with yourself.

Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSc, BEd(ECTeach) Member of the Australian Counselling Association COFFS COAST focus 75

“SAY YES TO YOU” Honouring Country and Community

Four Decades of Service and Innovation

The morning sun filtered through the trees in Central Coffs as more than 100 colleagues, partners, and friends gathered at the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre for the annual Women’s Health Breakfast to celebrate Women’s Health Week 2025. The atmosphere was one of warmth and connection — a celebration of health, resilience and the strength of women and gender-diverse people across the Coffs Coast.

Health Voyage is the regional based, values-led charity dedicated to empowering communities and championing health and wellbeing across the Coffs Coast and beyond. We are proud to lead services that support women and young people across the region: the Women’s Health Centre, headspace Coffs Harbour, headspace Grafton, the Work and Study Program for the Clarence, and the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Program.

A beautiful smoking ceremony by Troy Robinson and grounding Welcome to Country from Aunty Narelle reminded all present that this work is rooted in respect, tradition and community.

Last financial year alone, locals connected with a Health Voyage practitioner or provider more than 31,000 times. Our commitment is to provide no, or low-cost services, so that everyone can access safe, high-quality, compassionate care regardless of their circumstances.

“Say Yes to You” - A Powerful Theme Jean Hailes empowers organisations to bring the message of Women’s Health Week into their own communities. This year’s theme, “Say Yes to You,” is more than a slogan—it was a call to action for women to prioritise their own health and wellbeing.

Women are the backbone of families and communities and making time for their own needs it vital.

At Health Voyage, we see every day how a collective of service providers, partners and supporters can make a difference.

Together, we create opportunities for women to access the right care, at the right time, close to home.

Coffee, Choirs, and Community The breakfast was a feast for the senses. Attendees enjoyed free barista coffee from the BMNAC coffee van, mingled with laughter and conversation. Delicious breakfast treats from Active Nutrition Pantry Sawtell fuelled lively discussions and new connections.

Music was a highlight with DJ Iwan and the Singlish Choir delivering an uplifting performance that brought everyone together in song. The choir’s harmonies echoed the spirit of unity and celebration that defined the morning.

76 COFFS COAST focus

Since 1986, the Women’s Health Centre has been a beacon for the community. Next year marks our 40th anniversary, and we’re planning a series of events to celebrate this milestone.

Partnerships - The Heart of Progress Improving health outcomes doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of strong partnerships and a shared commitment. When we collaborate across health, community, government sectors, and with those accessing our services, we build smarter and more sustainable solutions.

Our work at the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre is made possible thanks to the support of key partners and funders, including NSW Health through the Mid North Coast Local Health District and Healthy North Coast - North Coast Primary Health Network.

Reaching Further - Outreach and Education The Women’s Health Centre and the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic provided over 9,300 direct occasions of service in the past year. Our outreach clinics in Dorrigo, Urunga, Bellingen, Woolgoolga, and Glenreagh ensure we meet people where they are. Weekly Women’s Health Nurse support at Pete’s Place offers homeless women vital health care and navigation.

C E L E B R AT I N G WO M E N ’ S H E A LT H ON THE COFFS COAST Beyond clinical care, the Centre delivered 21 education sessions in schools and community groups on topics including menopause, endometriosis, sexual and reproductive health, mental wellbeing and pregnancy care. A highlight was the launch of Refugee Women’s Health Talks, a culturally safe, welcoming space that promotes trust, health literacy, and connection. Sessions included Menopause Talks tailored for Yazidi and Burmese women and multicultural women’s group, a Yarn and Weave workshop run in partnership with Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance for the STARTTS Yazidi Women’s group.

The Centre also provided weekly health and wellbeing groups to support mental health, cardiovascular health, diabetes prevention and social connection, with 2,315 group occasions of service recorded.

A Movement with Deep Roots The Women’s Health movement grew from feminist activism in the 1970s into a strong policy voice by the mid-1980s, demanding health care that is accessible, respectful, and responsive to gendered needs. Today, Women’s Health NSW, the peak body for 21 community-based Women’s Health Centre, continues this legacy, advocating for safe, affordable, and culturally appropriate care, and working to end gendered health inequities, eliminate violence, and ensure reproductive rights and mental wellbeing for all.

conversations, offering flexibility, and embedding dignity into workplace culture, we can break the stigma empower women to thrive at work and in life. Now is the time to lead by example—let’s make women’s health a strategic priority, not just this month, but every month.

Celebrating Our Champions At the breakfast we honoured two incredible women: Dr Jo Walker - marking 20 years of service, supporting countless women through trauma-informed, holistic care; and Nurse Berry Jones - celebrating 35 years of service, leading outreach services for isolated rural communities and Pete’s Place.

To provide further assistance to women in need, Nurse Berry shaved for a cause at the event and lost her trademark purple locks! There still time to donate!

Looking Ahead As we share the message of “Saying Yes to You,” we look forward with optimism to the partnerships and progress we will achieve together. The journey continues, and with every connection, every conversation and every act of care, we are building a healthier, more inclusive future for all women and gender-diverse people on the Coffs Coast.

Health Voyage has grown from these feminist values making it our mission to provide high-quality, compassionate, and accessible health and wellbeing services tailored to our community. Our culture of collaboration, kindness, respect, and diversity ensures a welcoming space for everyone - clients, partner services, and staff alike.

October is World Menopause Month—a timely reminder that women’s health is everyone’s business, including in the workplace. With the launch of our new Women’s Health Policy, we’re calling on employers across the region to support your staff through every stage of their health journey, from menstruation to menopause and beyond. By fostering open

Healthy Voyage - healthvoyage.org.au @healthvoyage_au healthvoyage_au Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre @ch_womens_health_centre coffswhc

COFFS COAST focus 77

78 COFFS COAST focus

C

NORTHERN BEACHES CHIROPRACTIC CENTRE: FAMILY CARE FOR A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY

an you tell us a little about the history of Northern Beaches Chiropractic Centre?

Northern Beaches Chiropractic Centre has been part of the Woopi community for the past 5 years, after an increasing demand of patients travelling to our Coffs clinic. John Vandenberg has been practicing as a chiropractor for the last 33 years and was recently joined by his daughter, Kodie Vandenberg, to expand and continue expert chiropractic care.

What makes Northern Beaches Chiropractic unique?

We pride ourselves on being a family-owned practice that combines experience with a fresh approach to health. Our care is tailored to each individual, whether it’s posture support, spinal analysis, or maintenance or performance care. We also work closely with other allied health professionals, ensuring our patients get well-rounded support.

What do you love most about running a clinic in Woolgoolga?

Woolgoolga is such a welcoming and community-driven town, which makes running a clinic here so great. We get to meet lots of

patients and treat all members of the family as they grow. Our team also loves to enjoy the local cafes and coastal walks in the area.

How does Northern Beaches Chiropractic Centre support the local community?

We’re proud sponsors of the Woolgoolga Tennis Club and Woolgoolga Netball Association, to help support local sport and encourage an active lifestyle. Each month, we also run a patient It’s about raffle, with the winner keeping receiving a voucher to the body moving a local Woolgoolga at its best so you business!

What conditions can chiropractic help with?

Many people see us for back/neck concerns, headaches, or sports injuries, but chiropractic is about more than pain relief. It’s about keeping the body moving at its can enjoy life, best so you can enjoy Where are the clinics whether that’s life, whether that’s on located and how can on the sporting the sporting field, at patients get in touch? field, at work, or work, or simply playing Northern Beaches with your kids. One of simply playing Chiropractic Centre our favourite things with your kids. is located right in the about chiropractic care, heart of Woolgoolga is that it can help the at 4/8 Market Street, body heal without the need for medications. making it easy for locals and surrounding Do you have any advice for people communities to access care. Patients can book considering chiropractic? appointments or find out more by calling us on 02 6654 1879 or visiting our website at Absolutely! Don’t wait until you’re in pain coffsharbourchiropractic.com.au. You can to get checked. Chiropractic care can be also find us on instagram a proactive way to support your posture, @northernbeacheschirowoolgoolga for mobility, and overall health. Even small helpful tips and behind the scenes of life in improvements can make a big difference in your day-to-day life.

Woopi.

COFFS COAST focus 79

A NEW SEASON FOR

WOMEN’S

Ultrasound

Saige Ultrasound has recently welcomed Jo, who brings more than 4 decades of ultrasound experience to the team as well as some great stories of the early days.

W

as ultrasound in the ‘80s really that different from today?

Oh yes - big hair, big shoulder pads, and big clunky ultrasound machines! In the 1980s, women’s scans were done on general radiology machines - grainy black-and-white images that made even seasoned doctors squint. Fast forward to now, and we’ve got crystal-clear, highresolution tech that can see the tiniest details, all designed specifically for women’s health.

80 COFFS COAST focus

So what’s changed besides the tech?

Everything! Back then, women’s scans were often squeezed in between knee X-rays and chest CTs. Today, women’s ultrasound has evolved into its own specialty. No more generic scanning - now it’s all about tailored care for pregnancy, fertility, pelvic pain, endometriosis and more.

Who’s actually doing the scans now?

Here’s the game-changer. Specialist women’s ultrasound clinics aren’t just run by sonographers, they often include obstetricians and gynaecologists who are not only experts

at interpreting scans but can also provide real clinical care, right then and there. Think of it as scanning plus next-step answers all in one place.

Why does that matter for me?

Because your body deserves more than a quick scan and a “we’ll call you.” You get answers, expert care, and peace of mind, all from people who actually specialise in women’s health.

The bottom line?

Women’s ultrasound has come a long way and so should your experience. Time to expect more.

focus_contributor.

Thriving NOT JUST

with ANGELA MARTIN

FROM LIFELINE NORTH COAST

MEANINGFUL

CONNECTIONS er more  an ever for MENTAL HEALTH

O

ctober is Mental Health Month, and on October 10, we observe World Mental Health Day, a global reminder that mental wellbeing is a collective responsibility. While conversations around mental health often focus on self-care, therapy, and mindfulness, one vital ingredient is sometimes overlooked: meaningful human connection.

In an age of digital overload and social media scrolls, it’s easy to mistake interaction for intimacy, but true connection goes deeper. It’s about being seen, heard, and valued, not just liked or followed. Meaningful relationships are the emotional anchors that help us weather life’s storms. They offer comfort in times of distress, celebrate our wins, and remind us we’re not alone.

Studies show that people with strong social bonds are less likely to experience depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. Connection boosts self-esteem, fosters resilience, and even

improves physical health. But it’s not about having dozens of friends, it’s about cultivating depth in the relationships we do have.

challenges, you create space for others to do the same. It’s in these honest moments that true connection is born.

So how do we build these connections in a busy, often disconnected world? Here are five practical ways to start: 1. Be Present: When you’re with someone, be with them. Put away distractions and give your full attention. Eye contact, active listening, and genuine curiosity can transform a simple chat into a meaningful exchange.

4. Join a Community: Whether it’s a book club, volunteer group, or fitness class, shared interests create natural It’s about being bonds. Community gives seen, heard, and us a sense of purpose valued, not just liked or and belonging.

followed. Meaningful relationships are the emotional anchors that help us weather life’s storms.

2. Reach Out: Don’t wait for others to make the first move. A thoughtful message, a phone call, or a coffee invite can be the bridge someone needs. Ask, “How are you, really?” and be ready to listen.

3. Share Authentically: Vulnerability builds trust. When you open up about your own

5. Practice Gratitude: Let people know they matter. A heartfelt thank-you, a kind note, or a simple “I appreciate you” can strengthen relationships and uplift both giver and receiver.

This October, let’s take action. Let’s check in on our friends, reconnect with loved ones, and be intentional about the relationships that nourish us. Because when we invest in connection, we invest in our mental health, and in the wellbeing of those around us.

COFFS COAST focus 81

REDUCING GAMBLING HARM GAMBLEAWARE WEEK 20-26 OCTOBER 2025

This October, communities across New South Wales will come together for GambleAware Week; a dedicated time to raise awareness about gambling harm in hopes to spark meaningful conversations and highlight free supports available to individuals and families.

T

his year’s GambleAware Week theme, “There’s More to Lose Than Money,” reminds us that gambling harm is not only about financial loss; it can ripple through relationships, intensify mental health concerns, and impact community wellbeing.

The aim of GambleAware Week is simply to ensure people understand there is more than money at risk when gambling and ensure people understand they are not alone in tackling the issue.

Across the Mid and North Coast of NSW, gambling harm quietly affects many households, businesses, relationships and meeting personal and professional goals.

According to the NSW Gambling Survey 2024, one in five adults experienced gambling harm in the past 12 months, whether it is due to their own gambling or reporting being negatively impacted by others gambling. The GambleAware Program staff have a layered understanding and see the impact first-hand in our communities and on people’s mental

82 COFFS COAST focus

health and are on the frontlines of responding to the issue. With an extensive team of experts including free qualified: Trauma Informed Therapeutic Counsellors; Qualified Financial Planning Counsellors; Peer Support Workers and Community Engagement Coordinators.

GambleAware offers a whole person approach to reducing gambling harm for everyone.

“Our regional communities are deeply connected. When one person struggles, families, workplaces, and the broader community can feel the impact,” explains Sherri Swayne, GambleAware Program Manager, “that’s why GambleAware Week is so important. It brings awareness to the forefront, allows opportunities to openly discuss reducing gamble harm and assists to pull the stigma out of help-seeking”.

The GambleAware Program has Community Engagement Coordinators who are flexible and move across the Mid North Coast from Laurieton to Tweed Heads. They work to build trust within the communities to deliver

education and awareness through service days, online webinars, in person education sessions at neighbourhood centres, work with faith-based groups, rural schools and much more.

2025 GambleAware Week Activity & Engagements During this year’s GambleAware Week the Community Engagement Coordinators, Peer Support Workers and Counsellors at Lifeline North Coast will partner with organisations and host a variety of family friendly events, including: • Community stalls and pop-ups across Port Macquarie, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour, Grafton and Tweed Heads, where residents can access resources and have a yarn about gamble harm risks and reduction strategies.

• Workshops and presentations both in person and online, featuring local clinicians and financial counsellors.

• Youth engagement activities to spark awareness in schools and community groups.

These are opportunities that include kids

Is Your Teen Gambling online?

SIGNS, SYMPTOMS & RESPONSES Signs Include: • has had a drop in their grades • is absent more frequently • is consistently getting into trouble • talks about dropping out of school • says they feel alienated and isolated • asks friends for money • spends a lot of time gaming • appears to be stealing money to gamble with Symptoms Include: • shows signs of anxiety • show signs of depression discussing gamblification of gaming.

Support is Here

These events are free and open to all, with a focus on breaking down stigma and empowering people to reach out.

With a ‘no wrong door approach’ the GambleAware Program is here to meet people where they are at.

“Together, we can shift the conversation from stigma to support,” says Swayne, “…..because when our community is informed, and engaged, we all thrive.”

GambleAware Week will also highlight Peer Support Workers with lived experience of gambling harm. Their role is to introduce themselves at the community events and work to walk alongside help-seekers, offering understanding and guidance while working together on next steps.

“As people share their experiences, communities gain a deeper understanding of gambling harm as a public health issue, not a personal failing.

That’s why peer support workers play such a valuable role with help-seekers in the GambleAware Program,” explains Swayne.

At the heart of GambleAware Week, there are also community members who bravely share their personal stories, highlighting the impact of gambling harm on mental health, relationships, and family life.

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. For GambleAware Mid and Northern call Lifeline North Coast at 6651 4093 and for the broader area call GambleAware on 1800 858 858 for free and confidential help.

MEET THE TEAM Nicole - Intake Coordinator and Admin Assistant Patrice - Community Engagement

• seems irritable and easily agitated Responses: Many young people may not realise that help is available, or they might not believe they even have a problem. Often, stigma and fear stand in the way of reaching out. Because of this, GambleAware encourages adults to be vigilant and offer support to teens as they may feel too uncomfortable to approach a counsellor directly. If they already have a trusted relationship with a parent, teacher, friend or other relative and that trust can be the bridge to support. You can reassure teens that confidential support is available in many forms; online, over the phone, and face-to-face, through services designed specifically for teens 16 and up, affected by gambling harm.

Rex - Community Engagement and Communications

KEY FINDINGS FROM NSW GAMBLING SURVEY 2024:

Shaloo, Steve and Danielle - Financial Planning Counsellors

• Approximately 54% of NSW adults gamble in a year.

Skye - Peer Support Worker and Community Engagement Vince, Kim, and Duke - Therapeutic Gambling Counsellors Sherri - Program Manager

Popular forms of gambling: • Lotteries are the most common, followed by electronic gaming machines (“pokies”), scratchies, race betting, then sports betting and online gambling.

• Increases in sports betting, and online casino games.

• Some groups are more likely to experience harm: men under 45 (from their own gambling), women, people living with children, and Aboriginal people (especially from someone else’s gambling).

COFFS COAST focus 83

Fast, Effective Care for Sports Injuries & Chronic Pain The Loman Medical team is committed to helping you feel your best by providing fast, accessible care for musculoskeletal conditions, sports injuries, and chronic pain.

• Ultrasound Guided Cortisone Injections • PRP Therapy • Hyaluronic Acid Injections • Pre Surgery Pain management • Sports Injury management

Whether you’re seeking relief from inflammation, osteoarthritis, recovering from an injury, or managing ongoing pain, our expert-led clinic offers tailored solutions to meet your needs.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY NO REFERRAL NEEDED. 45 Lake Road, Port Macquarie Ph. 02 5574 3754 admin@lomanmedical.com.au lomanmedical.com.au

Figtree D AY S PA

Who needs a holiday or a mini escape? Or maybe your team’s Christmas end of year celebration?

E

scape, restore, and recover with permission to pause and reset through Wellness Days at Figtree Day Spa.

In just a few unhurried hours, this restorative experience invites you to step away from the noise of everyday life and into a space of stillness, healing, and presence. An Introductory retreat to restore, reconnect and remember. Let this gentle retreat be your invitation to pause - to breathe with the rhythm of the earth, to feel your energy

slowly return, and to remember the

bath salts, lunches & afternoon tea.

quiet harmony that lives within.

Limited to 8 people only per day

Leave feeling restored and recovered.

$150 deposit upon booking

All inclusive of all yin yoga classes,

$360 Full Day

treatments, facial workshop, journal,

Call to book 0455 120 222

COFFS COAST focus 85

HARLEY

DAVIS

Y

ou have undergone a pretty incredible weight loss and health journey.

Was there a particular moment or turning point when you decided something had to change?

The turning point for me came when I saw a photo of myself at my work Christmas party. I didn’t even recognise the person staring back at me. At the same time, I was suffering from severe gout attacks on a regular basis, which meant I couldn’t even enjoy simple things like walking around. That combination, the image in the photo and the pain I was living with, hit me hard. I decided that if I wanted to be the father and partner my young family deserved, I had to make a change. I booked a health check with my local doctor soon after and was shocked to see the scale hit 180kg. I knew then that it was no longer optional, something had to change, and it had to start right away.

Weight loss journeys are rarely linear, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced along the way?

My journey had plenty of ups and downs.

86 COFFS COAST focus

From struggling with obesity and painful gout attacks to transforming his life and career, HARLEY DAVIS HAS UNDERGONE AN INSPIRING WEIGHT LOSS AND HEALTH JOURNEY. NOW A HEALTHY WEIGHT AND WORKING AS A PERSONAL TRAINER, Harley is sharing his story to help others find the discipline, balance, and belief needed to change their own lives.

Only a couple of months in, I had one of What really worked for me was finding a balance between diet, exercise, and mindset. the worst gout attacks I’d ever experienced, Dieting was sometimes easy, sometimes with both knees flaring so badly I could tough, but bulk-prepping meals for the hardly move for weeks. Even then, I didn’t week ahead kept me accountable. Having let it completely derail me, I stuck to eating a supportive wife who stocked the right better most of the time and still showed up to foods in the house made a huge difference. workouts as best I could. Family and friends With exercise, it took a would sometimes while to find my groove. question why I brought I started with simple my own food to events things like walking on my I decided that or why I was being “so lunch breaks and hitting if I wanted TO strict,” but I knew I step goals, but the real BE THE FATHER had a goal that meant breakthrough came when AND PARTNER MY more than short-term I hired a coach. Having YOUNG FAMILY comfort. A few months structured workouts to DESERVED, I had later, I realised I was tick off each week gave to make a change. still turning to food for me the consistency I comfort during hard needed, and over 18 times, so I went back to months it reignited my passion for the fitness my doctor and started industry.

Mindset was the hardest piece. I seeing a psychiatrist. That helped me face the believe motivation is temporary, but discipline mental side of weight gain. Later, reaching out is forever.

By training discipline like a muscle, to an online coach gave me the structure and I made sure it was the strongest part of my accountability I needed to keep progressing. journey.

How did you find what really worked for What inspired you to become a personal you?

trainer after your transformation?

I built on those small habits week by week. EVERYONE’S STARTING POINT IS DIFFERENT, but the key is to focus on progress, not perfection.

I’ve always had a passion for helping others. I started studying fitness when I was 21, but life took hold, and I never got to pursue it properly. Early into my transformation, I realised I needed something bigger to help me push past the barrier that had always held me back. The answer was becoming a personal trainer. I spoke about it so much that one day my old boss, Rebecca Broadfoot, who had been a massive support, sent me an information package for a fitness course. She was always there to chat and help me through the tough times, and that encouragement gave me the push I needed. The very next day, I went to the “bank,”(my wife), to see if we could afford it.

We agreed, I signed up, and I’ve never looked back.

How has your own journey shaped the way you train and support your clients today?

I always appreciated the hands-on support

my coach gave me, especially when it came to delivering the hard truths I needed to hear. That honesty kept me accountable, and I’ve carried that into my own style.

However, I know how tough the process can feel, so I balance honesty with empathy and compassion. I’ve been in my clients’ shoes, I know the self-doubt, the setbacks, and how overwhelming it can all feel. Because of that, I’m patient but firm, and I make sure my clients know I believe in them, even when they don’t believe in themselves. To me, coaching isn’t just about fitness programs, it’s about helping people build the same sense of pride and happiness I found in my journey.

For someone at the beginning of their journey, feeling overwhelmed, what’s the first step you’d encourage them to take?

My biggest piece of advice is to simply start somewhere. You don’t need to overhaul your entire life in one day. When I began, I started small, walking on my lunch breaks and aiming to hit my step goals. That might not sound like much, but it gave me momentum and proved

to myself that I could stick to something. From there, I built on those small habits week by week. Everyone’s starting point is different, but the key is to focus on progress, not perfection. Pick one change you can make today, stick with it, and when it becomes part of your routine, add another. That’s how lasting transformation is built.

What personal and professional goals do you have? Right now, I feel like I’m living my dream as a personal trainer and coach.

Personally, my goal is to keep challenging myself physically and mentally so I can show up as the best version of myself for my family and clients. I want to continue showing my kids and the people I work with that hard work and healthy habits really do pay off.

Professionally, my focus is on building Formed for Life into a successful and sustainable business. Genesis has given me an incredible opportunity to grow my coaching inside their community, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

My long-term goal is to have Formed for Life not only support my family but also make a lasting impact in the lives of busy parents and individuals who want to change their health.

For me, success isn’t just about business growth, it’s about building a legacy of health, strength, and balance that will last for years.

COFFS COAST focus 87

SO, YO U DEC IDED TO P UT A LL YO U R A DVERTISING DOLLARS INTO

DIGITAL ONLY? Liked by your Mum and 7 others (that are probably your friends)

issue

WHEN YOU ADVERTISE IN FOCUS, YOU GET

177 OCTOBER 2025

NICK WILLS A A N U K A

B E A C H

H O U S E

UNMATCHED VISIBILITY

10,000 P RI N T E D C O P I E S

88 COFFS COAST focus

25,000

M O N T H LY R E A D E R S HI P *

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

online 5k

900k

ISSUU RE ADS ONLINE>

ISSUU IMPRESSIONS ONLINE

monthly average

Read our printed copies of FOCUS online anytime, anywhere at issuu.com/focus.mag. With over 540 back issues and counting available to read on mobile, ipad and desktop.

20,000

SOCIAL FOLLOWERS^

FOCUS Magazine is a publication by locals, for locals.

We’re renowned for beautiful creative design and exceptional photography throughout our pages.

Inside our content is all positive interviews with real people who live, work and play here. People who are actively participating in this community by making a difference and leading the way to shape a vibrant future for our region.

We capture the best of entertainment, food, fashion, business, real estate, health, education, travel and so much more. Combined with our signature emphasis on local that has made FOCUS an award winning publication that locals love, trust and read.

LOCAL FACES. LOCAL STORIES. *Readership is estimated based on 2.5 readers per issue. ^Total combined likes of our social media pages. >Monthly unique readers on our Mobile editions.

COFFS COAST focus 89

N I C O L E T U R N B U L L N E O N

90 COFFS COAST focus

S H E D

STAY AHEAD WITH AGILE ACCOUNTING Hannah Wait from Agile Accounting Support is local and based in Coffs Harbour and offers tailored bookkeeping and accounting services for small businesses and not-for-profits.

AGILE SPECIALISES IN: •

Ongoing bookkeeping & accounting services offering customisable fixed fee packages and a “Back on Track” package to help businesses who have gotten behind in transactions and reconciliations

•

Xero set up, training, customisation of reports and optimisation

•

Audit readiness service to help clients prepare accurate, well-organised financial records to reduce stress, save time and lower audit fees

•

Services tailored for not-for-profits including assistance with grant acquittals, preparation of Annual Information Statements and compliance obligations

ur free Book yo te in 15-m u to tion consulta w Agile o h r e v disco your can help t - and e g s busines ead stay - ah

Phone 0435 306 544 Email hwait@agile-accounting.com.au agile-accounting.com.au COFFS COAST focus 91

S I G N A R A M A C O F F S

H A R B O U R

From shopfronts to vehicle wraps, Signarama Coffs Harbour is helping local businesses stand out. Owners Cherie and Brad Tregent share how they built their brand, their most memorable projects, and why supporting locals is at the heart of what they do.

H

ow did you both come to own and run Signarama Coffs Harbour?

After relocating from Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Cherie continued her Business Development role in the pharmaceutical sector across NSW. During this time, Brad took a sabbatical to adjust to farm life, down tools and evaluate next potential business opportunities.

While open to various ventures, few met our criteria for industry relevance, turnover, and growth potential. When we came across this business, it aligned perfectly with our backgrounds, drawing on our experience in manufacturing, design, marketing, and sales.

92 COFFS COAST focus

What inspired you to get into the signage and branding industry?

The signage industry is attractive due to the consistent demand and diverse opportunities.

Every business NEEDS signage, whether it’s shopfronts, internal branding, window and wall graphics, vehicle wraps, or promotional materials.

There’s purpose in helping businesses stand out. We also loved the variety, every day is different, filled with unique customer needs and creative challenges. It’s a hands-on space blending design, marketing, and practical solutions, which felt like a perfect fit.

What services do you offer, and what kinds of projects are most in demand right now?

We are your complete signage partner, from

promotional products like corflutes, A-frames, banner mesh, and flags to shopfront signage (internal and external), window/wall graphics, vehicle signage, and national rebranding rollouts. Demand is strong across all areas, particularly vehicle and building signage.

Can you share a favourite or most memorable project you’ve worked on locally?

It is hard to pick just one, but a standout project was with Polyaire, who asked us to incorporate their mascot, a duck, as a sixmetre-high feature on their building.

Standard signage options were proving too costly, but instead of compromising, we partnered with a nationally acclaimed local mural artist to bring their vision to life. The

result was outstanding and that exceeded all expectations.

It was a complex challenge that many might have walked away from, but through collaboration and creative problem-solving, we delivered something truly memorable.

How important is it supporting and working with other local businesses on the Coffs Coast?

It’s incredibly important. Coffs has a strong local-first culture, people are loyal to businesses and people they know and trust.

For us, it’s all about elationships, trust and integrity. Our clients value that we offer a professional, service-driven experience where they feel appreciated and we make their lives easier in the process.

Being part of the local business community isn’t just about transactions, it’s about contributing to something larger. It’s more fulfilling when you’re working alongside like-minded people who share that same commitment.

rewarding. Seeing their excitement as the signage goes up is a highlight of what we do and we love watching others succeed.

Where do you see Signarama Coffs Harbour heading in the next few years?

Our vision is to remain the leading signage supplier in the region, expand our client base via building long term mutually beneficial relationships, and maintain strong year-onyear growth.

Our vision is to remain the leading signage supplier in the region, expand our client base via building long term mutually beneficial relationships, and maintain strong yearon-year growth.

What do you love most about helping clients bring their brand to life?

Key to this is refining our processes, adopting best practices, and securing long-term contracts. Equally important is building a strong, happy, and valued team.

A positive workplace culture is central to our growth strategy.

We love being part of a defining moment in our clients’ journeys. Signage is often the final step in a long-held dream – a point where their vision becomes real to the public.

Ultimately, we want to build a sustainable business that delivers exceptional results while creating a workplace people are proud to be part of.

Starting or rebranding a business is no small task. Helping bring that to life is incredibly

What do you both enjoy most about living and working on the Coffs Coast?

Moving from Sydney was a conscious decision to slow down and be more present for ourselves and our family. Living rural surrounded by space has given us a more grounded and balanced lifestyle.

Running a local business has added to that sense of purpose. It’s allowed us to be more involved in family life while still doing meaningful work in a community we care about.

The Coffs Coast offers the best of both worlds, A supportive local business environment and a coastal lifestyle that lets us enjoy the moments that matter most.

How can we get in touch?

02 6652 1655 coffsharbour@signarama.com.au signarama.com.au/store/coffs-harbour COFFS COAST focus 93

Alison

Osmand M E D I A T I O N

Courtrooms make headlines, but most disputes are resolved far from a judge’s bench. That’s where mediation comes in: a structured, confidential conversation led by a neutral mediator who helps people talk, understand the issues, and craft their own agreement.

I

t can be ordered within a court matter or used privately as a faster, less stressful path to resolution. We sat down with local mediator, Alison Osmand, to unpack how the process works, who it suits, and how to prepare so you get the most from your day at the table.

supports the parties to explore options and, ideally, reach agreement. It’s often an alternative to litigation, but many court matters also include mediation so that outcomes aren’t imposed by a judge or magistrate.

What is mediation?

Transparency and neutrality are fundamental. My role isn’t to decide who’s right or wrong or to impose an outcome; it’s to create a safe, structured forum where both sides are heard. I conduct a pre-

Mediation is a dispute-resolution process where the parties are the decision-makers. A neutral third party, the mediator, facilitates discussion, helps clarify the issues, and 94 COFFS COAST focus

What’s your approach to keeping the process fair?

mediation appointment with each party separately to understand their concerns and goals, explain the process and ground rules, and check for any safety or access needs.

During mediation I ensure equal speaking time, reality-test proposals, and keep the discussion focused on interests, options, and practicality.

What matters do you specialise in?

I mediate mainly in family law (property/ financial matters) and wills and estate disputes. I work with both lawyer-assisted mediations and self-represented parties. I’m

beforehand. If you’re self-represented, I’ll step through preparation in the premediation meeting. Depending on the case, that may include exchanging key documents (e.g., valuations, bank statements, wills).

Come with several settlement options, know your non-negotiables, and be willing to compromise. Practical prep matters too: think about timelines, cash flow, and how a proposal would work day-to-day.

What are common misconceptions?

A big one is that the mediator is a referee who makes the final call. In mediation, the parties make the decision, the mediator manages the process. Another misconception is treating mediation as “offer ping-pong” from the first minute.

The real value lies in exploring the dispute, identifying interests and common ground, and only then moving to options and offers.

People can also agree on interim steps that pave the way to final settlement later.

Can you share a success story?

not a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and cannot issue a section 60I certificate under the Family Law Act 1975 for parenting matters.

In a recent interstate matter, one party worked in finance and felt confident about the numbers; the other had never managed the relationship finances and felt in the dark.

Through patient, stepA mediator by-step conversation, can explain we clarified what the process but had happened to does not give legal certain funds. Once advice. If you have a understanding improved, lawyer, much of the anxiety dropped and preparation happens the parties were able to beforehand. If you’re negotiate constructively.

They reached a self-represented, resolution that felt fair I’ll step through and workable to both. preparation in

the pre-mediation meeting.

How should clients prepare?

Good legal advice is invaluable, get it if you can. A mediator can explain the process but does not give legal advice. If you have a lawyer, much of the preparation happens

Online vs in-person, what works best?

Both are effective, and I tailor the format to the situation. Online mediation can provide comfort and safety, especially where there’s a power imbalance or high emotion. It also allows private break-out rooms and reduces travel. In-person sessions can help

build rapport and momentum when parties are comfortable being in the same venue.

Sometimes a hybrid model works, starting online, then meeting face-to-face for final negotiations.

What if we’re ordered to mediate but don’t think we can agree?

Mediation doesn’t guarantee settlement, but it almost always clarifies issues, narrows the dispute, or achieves partial agreements.

Even if you don’t settle on the day, you’ll usually leave with clearer information, refined options, and a roadmap for what needs to happen next, whether that’s further disclosure, expert input, or a staged interim arrangement.

When is mediation not appropriate?

Mediation is not one-size-fits-all. Urgent court orders, significant safety risks, or situations with coercive control may require different processes and safeguards. That said, with proper screening and structure (separate rooms, online format, support people), many matters can still be mediated safely and productively.

Key advantages compared with going to court?

Mediation is typically faster, less stressful, and more cost-effective than litigation.

Crucially, it helps preserve or stabilise ongoing relationships, for example, between co-parents or family members, because the outcome is self-determined, not imposed.

Final tips for the day of mediation?

Arrive well-rested, bring documents you may need, and budget enough time so you’re not rushed. Keep an open mind, ask questions if you don’t understand, and focus on workable, durable solutions rather than “winning”. If you need a break, say so, that’s part of the process.

How can people get in touch?

I’m happy to offer an obligation-free phone call to discuss whether mediation suits your situation. You can also check my website for a live availability calendar and next dates.

Thanks Alison.

COFFS COAST focus 95

focus_contributor.

Education

Update with SIMON DOYLE

P RI NC IPA L , BIS H O P DR U IT T CO LLE GE

I

COURAGE IS AN ESSENTIAL CHARACTER TRAIT

Courage is one of the most powerful and often unseen character traits lived out daily in schools.

t is not only the grand, heroic gestures that we associate with bravery, such as those honoured by the Australian Government in their Bravery Awards, but also the quiet, deliberate choices students make each day to step beyond their comfort zones.

At Bishop Druitt College, we see courage in its many forms, from the youngest child in kindergarten to our young adults preparing for their Higher School Certificate. It is the willingness to raise a hand in class with an answer that might be wrong, the bravery to volunteer first when others hesitate, or the resilience to join a new team, class, or performance group. These are not small acts.

They are daily demonstrations of character that shape young people into adults ready to embrace challenges with confidence.

A Deliberate Choice Courage is rarely accidental; it is a deliberate choice. For some students, it means stepping into a space where they risk embarrassment or failure. For others, it is the choice to extend themselves in an area of strength, such as entering a science competition, performing music in front of an audience, or trialling for a sporting team. While these may seem like natural steps, they often come with the challenge of self-doubt, the fear of failure, or the concern of standing out. At BDC, we remind our students, in the words of Dr Seuss, “You were born to stand out.”

Beyond Comfort and Familiarity. True growth rarely happens in spaces of familiarity. It takes courage to leave the safety of what is known 96 COFFS COAST focus

and step into a place of challenge. This might be a student who shares their writing for the first time, a musician performing a solo, or an athlete training through a difficult season. Parents and carers play a vital role in this journey, not by offering post-game critiques or endless analysis, but by affirming their child’s courage to try, to persist, and to learn. The encouragement of effort, rather than only the outcome, is what nurtures resilience.

Building a Culture of Courage. Schools are more than classrooms; they are communities where courage can either be nurtured or diminished. At BDC, we celebrate courage in diverse ways, whether through Book Week celebrations, creative expression in EYE Week, or the camaraderie of our sporting clubs and success in curriculum areas like history, Visual Arts, PDHPE, Languages, English, Science, Technology and Performing Arts, HSIE. These events reinforce that courage is not reserved for the exceptional few but is a quality accessible to all students.

Yet, courage also requires a culture of acceptance. We must guard against elitism, exclusion, or the mindset of “we have always done it this way.” True courage grows in environments where individual gifts are respected, where diversity is embraced, and where every student feels safe to step forward in their own way.

Courage in New Beginnings. For many, courage is also about starting fresh. Beginning kindergarten, transitioning into high school, or taking on a new subject or co-curricular

activity can all be daunting. Many adults commence a new career, tertiary study, a new home, new sport or relationship and they can also be examples of courage to our children, a deliberate action that places us in a place of discomfort or concern. At Bishop Druitt College, we support these moments for our students through intentional structures such as our Kindergarten Engagement Coordinator, Transition and Engagement programs for Years 6–8, rites of passage, clubs and our wellbeing initiatives.

These are designed not only to ease change or anxiety but also to celebrate the unique gifts of every student.

Everyday courage. Ultimately, courage in education is about much more than academic success or personal achievement. It is about developing young people who are willing to make brave choices, stand up for what is right, embrace challenges, and support one another.

These small, everyday acts of bravery accumulate into the foundation of strong character traits to become World Prepared. This is a part of the BDC Advantage.

As a school and as a community, our role is to notice and celebrate these moments of courage and encourage the deliberate actions that make a difference. When we do, we not only affirm the bravery of our children but also build their resilience and a growth mindset that will assist them as the future leaders that we need to see in our communities. a) Australian Government Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet pmc.gov.au/honours-and-symbols/list-australian-honours/star-courage

Simon Doyle, Principal

BDCC GOLF LF DAY Y

OORS RSHIIP P SPONSORSHIP

Registration 11:15am, 5am, 12 12:15pm 2:15pm shotgun start Presentation on the lawn 6-7 6-7pm 7pm

9

NOVEMBER BER MBER 2025 DONATE PRIZES

Raffle prizes

Any value

WE ARE OFFERING EXCLUSIVE SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES WITH STRONG BRANDING EXPOSURE AND EARLY TEAM REGISTRATION ACCESS

AT BONVILLE GOLF RESORT

Supporting S Su upp up ppoorrt rtitin ing ng Ba B Barracudas arr ar rra rac accuud uda das as Sp S Sporting orrttitin or ing ng Cl C Club lub lu ub

SPONSOR A HOLE

SCAN TO SPONSOR

Hole sponsorship $1,000 Boost your business’s visibility by sponsoring a hole at our premier event! Your banner will be prominently displayed at Bonville Golf Resort. Your business will receive recognition across BDC social media platforms, reaching thousands of followers on Facebook, Instagram and and LinkedIn. Sponsorship does not include a playing team.

COFFS COAST focus 97

Want to be a FOR A DAY?

Back in school you might remember the thrill of science experiments, from Bunsen Burners to the classic Coke and Mentos reaction. Now, the Clarence River Guardians, in collaboration with Southern Cross University, are inviting the community to step into the shoes of a scientist in a real-world project.

T

he Clarence River, one of the largest and most significant river systems on Australia’s east coast, is about to have a major health check. Over the weekend of the 18-19 of October, the community can take part in a ‘Baseline Sediment Survey’, helping researchers collect valuable samples that will guide the future care of the river.

The survey will see community members collect more than 100 sediment samples from key locations throughout the Clarence River catchment. These samples will then be analysed in detail at Southern Cross University’s Northern Rivers campus laboratories, providing scientists and the community with a baseline understanding of the river’s condition and, importantly, a 98 COFFS COAST focus

reference point to monitor future change.

would provide invaluable insights into the river’s current state and future management.

The approach, known as citizen science, is gaining popularity across Australia and around “Science can guide us to make better decisions about how we the world as a way of manage our rivers,” he combining rigorous explained. academic research The community with grassroots, “The community is at is at the heart community-led action. the heart of this project. of this project. There With the vast scale There is a strong sense of is a strong sense of of the catchment, it care and concern for the care and concern for would be impossible river’s current and future the river’s current for researchers alone health. The sediment and future health. to collect data from so collection would not many sites in such a be possible without the short timeframe. community’s help.”

Professor Scott Johnston, a hydrogeochemist at Southern Cross University and one of the project’s leaders, said the data gathered

This sentiment is echoed by local groups who have rallied behind the project. Tracy Patemen, President of the Lions Club

who have helped guide decisions about survey locations, granted permission to collect sediment samples, and ensured that all activities are carried out with cultural care and respect.

Yaegl Elder Aunty Elizabeth spoke about the river’s deep significance to First Nations people.

“Our ancient river connects people and communities to land and to each other,” she said.

of Clarence, said partnerships like these demonstrate the power of collaboration.

By analysing sediment for more than 50 different elements, researchers can detect the presence of heavy metals, metalloids and trace elements.

“These kinds of partnerships between communities and scientific institutions are becoming increasingly important,” she said.

“We are so grateful to be in partnership with Southern Cross University and for the community momentum that’s building behind the project.”

point to assess any future changes, particularly those associated with mining activities and how they might influence water quality.

This project is taking place on the sacred lands of the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr, and Yaegl Peoples. For many, the Clarence River is much more than an ecological system, it is a source of cultural, social, and spiritual connection. The citizen science project has been shaped through close collaboration with First Nations Custodians,

By the end of October, researchers and community members alike will have the beginnings of a comprehensive dataset that will shape river management for years to come. The findings will not only provide immediate insights, but will serve as a benchmark for tracking changes to the river’s health over the coming decades.

The survey will run over the weekend of 18– 19 October, with operations based from two central hubs in Grafton and Tabulam. To take part, participants must be at least 25 years old and able to work in pairs at collection sites. Teams can be as large as you like, but for safety reasons any group with younger members must also include at least two adults aged 25 or older.

There they will take part in a short induction, collect their maps and sampling kits, and set out to their assigned collection sites. Anyone interested in being part of the survey is encouraged to visit clarenceriverguardians.net

Citizen scientists will be trained through short online videos before heading out in teams of at least two adults to gather samples. Each team will be supplied with maps, easy to use instructions, and sampling kits to ensure consistency across all collection points. The central hubs for the project will be located in Grafton and Tabulam, enabling participants to access different sections of the river system.

By analysing sediment for more than 50 different elements, researchers can detect the presence of heavy metals, metalloids and trace elements. This will provide a reference COFFS COAST focus 99

GUULABAA – PLACE OF KOALA WINS 2025 ASIA PACIFIC AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE Guulabaa – Place of Koala on the NSW Mid North Coast is a special place. Set within Cowarra State Forest, Guulabaa, meaning ‘Place of Koala’ in the local Gathang language, offers a unique blend of conservation, cultural storytelling, and eco-tourism.

Guulabaa WHAT TO EXPECT AT GUULABAA – PLACE OF KOALA Activities focus around The Hub, a series of architecturally designed decks that allow visitors to relax and enjoy the forest canopy views while also providing access to Guulabaa’s visitor experiences.

Families looking for a day out can enjoy a picnic or visit the Bunyah Café and meet the Big Koala, a 2.5m-high sculpture painted by Pauline Roods, part of the region’s Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail. There are comfortable bushwalks nearby where visitors might see one of the region’s koalas in its native habitat or book a visitor experience at Koala Conservation Wild Breeding Guulabaa. Here, visitors learn about these shy marsupials while viewing some of the resident koalas.

They’ll also meet the carers who rehabilitate sick and injured koalas brought in for treatment.

For those seeking a more active experience, Wildnets Adventure Park offers Australia’s largest suspended playground. With rope and net-based adventures scaled safely for ages 3 and up, you can complete challenges, play in the treetops or ride a zipline.

Soon the Bunyah Bilbay Cultural Centre run by the Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council will also be opening, along with the Guulabaa Cathedral gathering space, both offering bookable function spaces too.

100 COFFS COAST focus

Visitors experience elevated timber walkways, immersive educational spaces, and First Nations-led narratives that deepen understanding of wildlife, heritage and environmental stewardship – now recognised in Guulabaa’s latest international award win.

AN INTERNATIONAL AWARD-WINNING EXPERIENCE! In ‘big news’ Guulabaa – Place of Koala has now been recognised as a global exemplar of conservation-led design, Indigenous collaboration and resilient land stewardship, winning an Urban Land Institute (ULI) 2025 Asia Pacific Award for Excellence in Hong Kong.

The Urban Land Institute is a global organisation with a mission to shape the future of the built environment for transformative impact in communities worldwide. The Asia Pacific Branch’s Awards for Excellence are among the region’s most respected honours in real estate and urban development, celebrating projects that raise the bar for design quality, sustainability, and positive community impact.

Guulabaa is one of only twelve winners across the Asia Pacific, and one of just two from Australia to be recognised this year.

Guulabaa – Place of Koala was conceived in direct response to the catastrophic 2019–20 Black Summer bushfires, which impacted koala habitats across the region. Developed by the Forestry Corporation of NSW and designed by global architecture and design firm Gensler, the project is grounded in deep collaboration with First Nations communities, from integrating traditional cool burning practices to reduce bushfire risk and restore forest health, to

sharing of culture and language. This approach also enabled the use of local sustainably sourced native hardwoods in construction, setting a benchmark for ecologically responsible and culturally informed design.

“Guulabaa challenged us to rethink what regenerative architecture should be. It is not about making a bold statement, but about designing with care, deep listening, and respect for Country,” said Ken McBryde, design director at Gensler Australia. “This project shows what is possible when we listen to our client, stakeholders, project partners, and First Nations knowledge holders, and design with long-term

impact in mind. We are honoured that ULI has recognised that vision.”

Kathy Lyons, Senior Manager, Country & Community at Forestry Corporation, agrees.

“Guulabaa is about more than protecting koalas. It brings people together, across generations, cultures and disciplines to care for Country and build a shared future where nature and community thrive.”

“Its success is already inspiring similar projects across New South Wales, and this ULI award recognition affirms that this model is both powerful and scalable when approached with care and respect.”

Guulabaa now serves as a flagship model for forestbased conservation infrastructure in Australia. It has inspired four additional forest tourism sites across NSW and demonstrates how design, Indigenous knowledge and environmental stewardship can come together to protect biodiversity, support sustainable tourism, and create places of lasting impact.

Guulabaa – Place of Koala Located in Cowarra State Forest. Guulabaa Way, off Burrawan Forest Drive, Lake Innes.

10 minutes from either Port Macquarie or Wauchope, 1.5km from the Pacific Highway on the Mid North Coast. Sealed road. guulabaaplaceofkoala.com.au Follow us on facebook & Instagram @guulabaaplaceofkoala COFFS COAST focus 101

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 Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Authorised

by Gurmesh Singh MP, MP, 1/9 1/9 ParkPark Avenue Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements 2022 Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements JulySeptember 2023 102 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

STAT E O F

PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

I

t goes without saying that everyone wants to protect koalas.

Where people differ with each other is how we go about it.

It was quite distressing to get phone calls one Friday afternoon in September from people in the timber industry saying they had been told by the NSW Government that they cannot go to work the following Monday.

Then at 8.15pm on the Saturday, I received a text message from the Minister asking me to attend a briefing on the proposed Great Koala National Park at 8am the next morning.

That Father’s Day briefing revealed this will be the full 176,000 hectare park, that there will be quite significant job losses and that there will be support packages.

This news has been distressing for our communities. People are losing their livelihoods but also any prospect of retraining in any field.

Also, any future Great Koala National Park should not limit recreational uses that can currently be undertaken in a State Forest.

We must maintain the recreational uses that can be done in the park: horseriding, fourwheel driving, camping, mountain biking and motorcycling.

We do not know whether we could hold

events in this park like the World Rally Championship that was held in Coffs Harbour in the past.

We need to ensure those uses are continued in the park.

As to funding for the park, $80 million was announced in 2023. Less than $30 million of that has been actually committed in the Budget.

At last month’s Park announcement, $60 million was committed to help set up the park, and just $6 million was announced to help grow our tourism and small business sector.

protect koalas, will cost $48.2 million.

The Minister for the Environment has confirmed it costs $48,200 per hectare to set up a park in Sydney. Labor is spending just $829 a hectare to set up a similar park here in Coffs Harbour.

If the Minns Labor Government was to commit to this park as wholeheartedly as it is committing to the one in Sydney, the cost would be $8.4 billion.

But it is not.

The Government is short-changing our communities.

The recent Oztag tournament in Coffs Harbour generated about $12 million in one electorate - mine - in one weekend alone.

They said this legislation will be introduced a year from now, right in time for the next State election, if they can fund it. Currently this park is not funded, and the Minns Labor Government has refused to commit to doing the full park unless a complex carbon credit scheme is approved by the Commonwealth Government.

Our timber industry brings in $81 million every single year, and the Government expects our community to be satisfied with the $2 million, at a maximum, that this park will bring in to Coffs Harbour.

Let’s be really clear. The Great Koala National Park announcement shows the Minns Labor Government doesn’t care about people; it cares about politics in the lead-up to the next election.

That is just ridiculous.

The Labor Government has sold out timber workers and shortchanged our communities, all to harvest The Greens’ preferences.

Those funds are supposed to deliver $160 million worth of economic benefit over 20 years and over five electorates. That works out at less than $2 million a year, per electorate.

A recently announced 1000-hectare national park in south-west Sydney, also designed to

COFFS COAST focus 103

104 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

RANDOM

with RENAE DONOVAN F R O M 3 B E A R S C OT TA G E

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

A

t 3 Bears Cottage, our heart has always been with children, families, and the community we serve. We strive to create a service that not only delivers exceptional care and education but also recognises and values the people who make it possible, our educators, families, and community partners.

One way we celebrate this commitment is through entering awards that highlight excellence in both business and education.

We are proud to share that in 2024 we were named a finalist in the Coffs Coast Business Awards, and this year we have again reached finalist status in not one, but two categories: Business of the Year and Employer of Choice. These categories reflect not only the strength of our service delivery but also the culture of care, growth, and recognition that we have cultivated for our educators and families. To be considered among the best in the region across these categories is an achievement we share with every child, family, and educator who is part of our community.

Awards are not just about accolades. For us, they are about recognition. Recognition for the educators who go above and beyond each day to create nurturing, creative,

and inspiring environments for children.

Recognition for families, whose trust and collaboration help shape the strength of our programs. Recognition for the broader community, which supports and partners with us in creating a culture of belonging and shared responsibility. Each award entry is a chance to showcase the incredible work happening every day at 3 Bears Cottage, often quietly, humbly, and with little fanfare.

Our dedication has also been acknowledged on a state level. Through the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards, we have proudly been recognised as a Centre of Excellence, taking out nine separate Awards of Excellence over the past six years.

These awards celebrate innovative practice, leadership, community connection, and the professionalism of our educators. Each win has been a testament to the passion and persistence of our team, who strive not only to deliver high-quality education and care, but to lift the standard of early childhood education in our sector.

This year, we are especially excited. With 13 entries submitted across multiple categories, we cannot wait to see how our journey continues to be recognised. Whether we bring home another award or not, the process itself is valuable, it drives reflection,

growth, and motivation. It allows us to pause and acknowledge just how much has been achieved, while also setting our sights on the future.

Recognition in early childhood education is needed now more than ever. Recently, our sector has been pulled into the headlines for all the wrong reasons, with stories of those who entered the profession without the right intentions. That is not who we are. We want to encourage those who do the right thing to stand tall, be proud, and shout it from the rooftops. Awards are one way we can do this, showing our families, our communities, and our country that there are centres committed to excellence, educators driven by passion, and services that are truly worthy of trust.

At its heart, our participation in awards is about advocacy. It shines a light on the unseen work of educators and sends a message that quality early childhood education matters to every child, every family, and every community.

As we await this year’s results, we feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. For the children who inspire us daily, for the families who trust us with their most precious gifts, and for the educators whose passion makes 3 Bears Cottage a place of excellence.

COFFS COAST focus 105

Shaping

TOMORROW’S

Workforce TOGETHER

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU LEAVE SCHOOL? IT’S NOT AN EASY QUESTION TO ANSWER WHEN YOU’RE 14 OR 15 WITH LITTLE EXPERIENCE OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM.

A

t Allegra School, our work the next generation but also in the strength of placement program bridges that the Coffs Coast community. gap. It’s about much more than Reflecting on recent placements, Dany Alarab, simply ticking a box for students, Allegra’s Leader of Learning Innovation & it’s about building resilience, Transformation, explained: “Throughout sparking curiosity, and connecting young their placements, students gained new skills, people with the real world of work. It’s also developed confidence, and formed meaningful about showing local employers the energy, connections with local professionals. They creativity, and potential uncovered what drives Allegra students bring to them, how they respond to I hope to their teams. challenges, and the types of

be a writer

environments where they Education at Allegra is one day so I found can truly excel. For many it not defined by grades that workspace so went beyond simply showing alone. We believe inspiring. At the end up and learning the basics, success is also about of my placement I was it was about discovering a showing up, persevering even offered a partsense of purpose and feeling under pressure, and time job there, which inspired about their future.” discovering what makes is so exciting. our students thrive.

One student, Eden Wolhulter, Work experience is recently spent a week a powerful part of at The Book Warehouse how we support the whole student. It offers Coffs Harbour. “I’ve always loved reading opportunities to test strengths, explore and the ‘new book smell’ at bookshops, so I passions, and broaden horizons. Local was thrilled to do my placement at The Book businesses consistently tell us that having a Warehouse,” Eden said. “It was a fun week; I young person in their workplace injects fresh was a bit nervous on the first day but I learned enthusiasm and often provides a pathway to a lot and met such lovely people. I hope to be identifying future employees. By hosting an a writer one day so I found that workspace so inspiring. At the end of my placement I was Allegra student, employers invest not only in 106 COFFS COAST focus

even offered a part-time job there, which is so exciting.” Eden’s journey reflects what we see time and again, when young people are given the right space, they rise to the occasion and take bold, confident steps toward the future.

We are deeply grateful to the many businesses and organisations who have already opened their doors to Allegra students. Their generosity has not only shaped student journeys but also strengthened our local workforce; hosting a student is more than an act of community spirit, it is a direct investment in the future of the Coffs Coast. By becoming a placement host, you’ll gain the fresh ideas and energy of a motivated young person, contribute to building a stronger and more resilient workforce, and inspire students to take their first confident steps into the world of work.

Together, we can continue to shape tomorrow’s workforce and celebrate the great young people growing up in our community.

Our School Class Hours are 9:00am-1:45pm Our School Office Hours are 8:30am -4:30pm Level 1, City Square 66-90 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 66 516898 school@allegra.nsw.edu.au www.allegraschool.nsw.edu.au

FAMILY LAW MEDIATION – EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST Facing a relationship breakdown can be challenging, resolving it doesn’t have to be.

With over 30 years’ experience as a lawyer and judicial officer in family law, I provide calm, compassionate, and respectful mediation tailored to your needs.

Whether court-ordered or voluntary, I offer both parenting (non-FDR) and financial mediations, available online or in person.

Sessions can be half or full-day, designed to suit the unique circumstances of all parties, with pre-mediation appointments included to ensure a smooth process.

I guide clients towards practical, workable outcomes, helping you move forward without unnecessary conflict or expense.

Accredited by AIFLAM & AMDRAS, I bring expertise, neutrality, and empathy to every mediation, creating a space where solutions can be reached with dignity.

Your future deserves the right start, let’s find a resolution that works.

Mon - Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm 0417 339 786 alison@osmandfamilymediation.com.au osmandfamilymediation.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 107

focus_contributor.

Lee Women inBusiness

with CATH FOWLER

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

C

an you tell us about your business?

I am thrilled to have established my first venture into retail having retired from a wonderful fulltime career in nursing. Roselee Boutique provides a personalised service to women recovering from breast surgery, navigating treatment or simply looking for a bra designed to fit well, providing comfort and support. Wearing fitted supportive bras following breast surgery enhances wound healing, promotes lymph flow and improves comfort. I am a certified fitter and stockist of Amoena products and I offer a private fitting space which is calm, comfortable and discreet. Having been a specialist breast nurse for more than 20 years I was already quite familiar with the extensive collection of Amoena products. Having worked with Amoena for so many years I feel the company offers a quality collection with a strong woman centred focus. I also believe that the women in our community have access to the products they require without the need to travel distances to city stores.

I offer a curated range of products including beautiful pocketed lingerie, swimwear, silicone breast forms, shapers, lymphatic compression garments and post surgery compression bras.

108 COFFS COAST focus

MillardNewton ROSELEE BOUTIQUE I have collaborated with Michelle from WigWise and Lisa from Her Closet to hold a wonderful wellness event from 2-4pm on October 7 for survivors of breast cancer. A High Tea no less with the opportunity to see how fashions can be worn well post treatment, learn new information and share with others. Our guest speaker is Denise Marshell, well known and loved local psychologist. Please contact me for bookings as seats are limited. Gold coin donation entry.

An event not to be missed.

What’s your favourite part of the work you do? I love meeting new people and especially enjoy reconnecting with women who completed treatment for breast cancer years ago and were patients of mine now visiting Roselee Boutique to purchase products from the Amoena range.

My greatest pleasure is to see a woman whether she has been diagnosed with breast cancer or not, leaving Roselee Boutique feeling wonderful about how she looks and importantly feels, a smile on her face and confidence in her walk.

Who is your greatest influence in business? Having been a registered nurse and midwife for 52 years, I have never solely owned a retail business. I must recognise Ruby Nicholson the NSW manager for Amoena as a significant influence for me in my business.

As a woman who has an amazing experience in retail lingerie, she has provided me with considerable guidance and encouragement.

What do you love about living and working on the Coffs Coast? I have lived in this area since the mid 1990’s, having raised my children and worked in both hospitals.

I love the people I have met along the way, the support I have received during times of need. The Coffs coast offers an opportunity to drop back a few gears to enjoy the varied landscapes on offer. We have amazing amenities, highly skilled health professionals, education facilities all accessible without the need to leave our community.

What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world? Learn as much as possible, understand the market in which you wish to engage. Ask, seek out mentors who know the product well and can offer sound advice.

I love to ask questions, (just ask my son!), as I need to understand the concept to embrace it. What have I learned - I love my work and I love providing a service to our community How can people learn more about your business? roseleeboutique.com.au Roselee Boutique Lee Millard-Newton

W oman of e Year C O F F S

C O A S T

AWARD 2025

T

N O M I N A T I O N S N O W O P E N F O R T H E I W D C O F F S C O A S T W O M A N O F T H E Y E A R A W A R D 2 0 2 6

he search is on again to recognise outstanding women in the Coffs Coast region who demonstrate innovation, commitment, and a significant contribution to empowering members of the local community.

The International Women's Day (IWD) - Coffs Coast - Woman of the Year Award, an initiative of the IWD Planning Committee in 2015, was set up to acknowledge the positive contribution of women in the region of the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire.

It aims to recognise the achievements of inspirational nominees who are involved in voluntary, community, business or professional work, and who, within that arena, have made an outstanding contribution to their community.

Nominations are now being called for the 2026 IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award, to be announced at the IWD Breakfast on Friday 6th March 2026. The three major women's groups in Coffs Harbour: the Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour Inc., Business and Professional Women (BPW) Coffs Coast and the Coffs Coast Business Women's Network Inc. (BWN)

come together to organise the IWD Breakfast to acknowledge the positive contribution of women and girls in the region of the Coffs Coast, and to recognise the winner, and runner up of the IWD Woman of the Year Award.

Criteria The International Women's Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award 2026 will honour a woman who: • Makes a significant contribution in enhancing and improving either the economic, cultural and/or social well-being of citizens within the local community.

• Uses vision and initiative over and beyond their normal role to pursue a goal/cause that will make a difference and have a positive impact on the local community.

• Is actively engaged with the local community in either a voluntary, community, business or professional capacity.

• Is a resident of the Coffs Coast (Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire).

There will be two awards consisting of an inscribed trophy and publicity for both women and their cause. The major award winner will

receive a cash prize of $1,500 sponsored by The North Coast Hotel Group. The runner up will receive a cash prize of $1,000 sponsored by One Agency Coffs Harbour. Both cash awards allow the women to continue to advance their objectives.

All finalists will be recognised and acknowledged for their own achievements.

Past award winners include Christina Monneron (2015), Charlotte Young (2016), Jane Tavener (2017), Aunty Bea Ballangarry (2018), Shelley Lowe (2019), Lily Isobella (2020), Emma Aspen (2021), Jade Naidu (2022), Doris Cowan (2023), Falak Othman (2024) and Tiga Cross (2025).

In 2018 a Runner Up Award was introduced, won by Kyla Holley (2018), Kamla RuthnamWebb (2019) Auntie Kerrie Burnet (2020), Lisa Nichols and Angelika Aulerich (2021), Jodie Wood (2022), Yvonne Richards (2023), Heather Duncan (2024) and Lee Millard-Newton (2025).

Nomination Forms are now available from the International Women’s Day Coffs Coast website at iwdcoffscoast.org.au or by email from iwdwoy2026@gmail.com.

Closing date is 18th November 2025.

COFFS COAST focus 109

focus_contributor.

Money MATTERS

with TANYA McMANUS

F R O M C L AY TO N & F O S T E R

A

PAYDAY SUPER UPDATE: DRAFT LEGISLATION AND CLOSURE OF SBSCH

s part of the 2023-24 Federal Budget, the Federal Government announced “Payday Super”, which will require you to make superannuation guarantee payments for your employees at the same time as their salary and wages.

Many businesses end up falling behind on their superannuation guarantee (SG) payments, and this measure essentially becomes a compliance check for the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

It will also help your employees achieve a better retirement.

Proposed to come into effect from 1 July 2026, the Treasurer has released the draft legislation providing more details about the changes.

SG contributions will continue to accrue with each payday until the annual maximum contributions base threshold is reached.

• Employers will no longer need to lodge SG statements. The ATO will issue SG shortfall assessments automatically using the data from Single Touch Payroll and super fund reporting.

• Under the new regime, late contributions and SG charge will be tax deductible. However, GIC and late payment penalty will remain nondeductible.

Impact for your business As Payday Super will not commence until 1 July 2026, your payroll service providers will have enough time to change their products and systems.

Changes to be introduced by Payday Super

More frequent super payments will make your payroll management smoother with fewer liabilities building up on your books.

• Employers will be required to make SG contributions to an employee’s nominated superannuation fund within 7 calendar days of the employee’s regular wages being paid.

You will also have a considerably large window to adjust your cash flow practices and plan ahead for any changes that may be necessary.

• SG contributions and SG shortfalls will be calculated using a new base called qualifying earnings (QE). This will align with Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE) and will also include salary sacrifice amounts.

• The maximum contributions base will shift from a quarterly basis to an annual basis.

110 COFFS COAST focus

Small Business Superannuation Clearing House (SBSCH) closing As part of the proposed Payday Super reform, the ATO has announced that the SBSCH will permanently close on 1 July 2026. New registrations will also cease from 1 October 2025. These changes are designed to reduce the unpaid super risk, however, by doing

so updates to payroll processes and super payments are required.

If you have been using the free ATO SBSCH, it is time to take steps to transition to alternative options. Some alternatives could include: • clearing service offered by your default fund • commercial clearing houses • reviewing your existing software to see if they include super functions, or • seeking an alternative payroll software or provider.

Contact us With this measure due to commence next year, you should reflect on your current cash flow practices and plan ahead for the increased frequency of super payments for a smooth transition.

We can help you with this business planning and help determine the best course of action based on your business needs.

Please feel free to contact our office to discuss this further.

COFFS HARBOUR OFFICE 6656 8000 6 Lyster Street PO Box 277 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 cafa.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 111

112 COFFS COAST focus

ALEX YOUNG

TRADESMEN YOU CAN TRUST

EASTLAND AIR CONDITIONING A N D R E F R I G E R AT I O N

S

With nearly two decades of experience in the HVAC trade, Alex Young has built Eastland Air Conditioning and Refrigeration into a trusted family-run business serving the Coffs Coast.

ince launching in 2012, Alex and his team have combined technical expertise with genuine care, ensuring homes and businesses stay cool, comfortable, and cared for all year round. We sat down with Alex to hear more about his journey, his values, and what makes Eastland stand out.

customers returning time and again.

What skills or values make a great tradesperson? A great tradesperson has both technical skill and genuine care. Quality work comes from paying attention to the small details, being reliable, and taking pride in every job. Customers deserve long-term solutions, not just quick fixes.

How important is trust with clients, and Can you tell us a little about your trade how do you build it? Trust is everything. and the services you offer? We do Our reputation has been residential, commercial, built on skill and customer and industrial aircare, showing up on We live and conditioning and time, completing the refrigeration. That raise our job properly, and giving covers everything families here too, honest advice. Whether from servicing and so every job is we’re installing a system installation to repairs. personal. That care or repairing a fridge, How long have you has led to strong clients know we’ll treat been in business on word-of-mouth their home or business as the Coffs Coast, and growth, with many if it’s our own. what inspired you customers returning What do you enjoy to start? I began my time and again. about working with HVAC apprenticeship the Coffs Coast in 2008 and went on community? We’re all to start Eastland Air locals, born and raised here. Helping other Conditioning and Refrigeration in 2012. locals stay comfortable in their homes and What sets your business apart from others businesses is something we really value. in the industry? It’s not just our technical Tell us about your team. Who’s behind the knowledge, it’s the personal approach. As a business with you? There’s myself, with 17 family business, customers deal directly with years’ HVAC experience; Daniel, also a fully us, not a call centre or a revolving door of qualified HVAC technician and electrician with staff. We live and raise our families here too, 17 years’ experience; and Tom, a qualified so every job is personal. That care has led to strong word-of-mouth growth, with many HVAC technician with 12 years in the trade.

How has your trade evolved, and how are you keeping up with changes? Technology has been the biggest shift, systems now need to be accessible from anywhere. We’ve embraced digital integration so clients can control their systems remotely, whether at home or work.

What advice would you give to young people entering the trade? Work hard, stay eager to learn, and don’t cut corners. Focus on quality, not speed, and always take pride in your work.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not on the job? With two young kids, aged two and six, family life keeps us busy.

We spend time outdoors feeding cows or mulching paddocks on the tractor. When we can, we love taking the kids camping. It’s a juggle, but showing our kids the value of hard work is something we’re proud of.

In one sentence, why should people choose your business? Choose us for reliable, family-run service where quality, honesty, and attention to detail come first.

How can we get in touch?

0488 549 288 alex@eastlandair.com.au eastlandair.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 113

TRADESMEN YOU CAN TRUST

JULIAN

WILSON-O’GRADY ON THE PLUMB AGAIN

T

ell us about your background and what inspired you to start your business. I began my plumbing apprenticeship in 2011 and have been in the trade ever since. I was lucky to have a great boss who gave me the freedom to travel and always welcomed me back to work. When he moved to Queensland, it felt like the right time to start my own business and build something of my own.

What has been your most memorable local project?

Recently, I worked at an art studio in Boambee. The clients held a special dinner to thank everyone involved, which made me feel really appreciated for the care I put into the job. That project definitely stands out.

How important is trust when working with clients, and how do you build it? Trust is everything. For me, it comes down to the basics: turning up when you say you will, keeping clients informed, and leaving the site clean and tidy. These small things build strong, lasting relationships over time.

Tell us about your team. Who’s behind the business with you? It’s mostly just me, so if I don’t answer the phone, I’m usually on a job. My partner helps behind the scenes, and I also have my dog Boof. He actually found me on a job site in Toormina, he kept stealing my lunch until I tracked down his owner, who told me I could keep him!

What’s your favourite tool you can’t live without?

My ½” and ¾” rollies - they’re the potato peelers of the toolbox.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working? I love fishing, camping, hiking, and spending time with family and friends. I’m also into archery and a proud member of the Coffs Coast Archery Club in Woolgoolga.

How can we get in touch?

Give me a call

114 COFFS COAST focus

0423 985 292

TRADESMEN YOU CAN TRUST

PRATT BENCHMARK ELECTRIC CO

C

an you tell us a little about your trade and the services you offer?

At Benchmark Electric Co we are a growing team of residential and commercial electricians that want to raise the standard for our industry. Our main key areas of work are Level 2 ASP (connecting power from street to house or building), residential new builds and renovations, commercial shop fitouts and remodels, and electric vehicle charging. We also have a team on standby if you run into issues after hours.

the time to listen to what they want and how they want to use their space, and translating that into winning electrical solutions.

How important is trust when working with your clients, and how do you build it? Trust with our team and with our clients is central to Benchmark Electric Co. When we are working on projects - no matter if it’s an EV charger install or someone’s dream house build - to take

How has your trade evolved over the years, and how are you keeping up with changes? Like every industry, ours is constantly evolving and changing. One change that has impacted our business is electric cars. With the evolution and ever-increasing popularity of EVs

Tell us about your team. Who’s behind the business with you? We currently have a team of five at Benchmark Electric Co. On site we have myself (Joe), Jack, and Trent who are our tradies. Between the three of us we have over 25 years of electrical experience in several different areas of the electrical industry. We also have our apprentice Sophie who is in her third year and knocking it out of the park, and our admin whiz Amy who holds down the fort in our Raleigh-based workshop.

in Australia, we have great fun working with owners of electric cars and coming up with the best charging solutions for different applications like apartment blocks, solar integration and commercial applications. We recently installed chargers for Bellingen Shire Council and install several home chargers across the Coffs Coast every month.

In one sentence, why should people choose your business? If you don’t like being left in the dark, choose Benchmark Electric Co. How can we get in touch?

0413 726 257 info@benchmarkelectricco.com.au benchmarkelectricco.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 115

116 COFFS COAST focus

2025 Northern NSW HIA Housing Awards

AWARD WINNING DESIGN LOCAL EXPERTISE 2025 Display Home of the Year The Kenneth 276 - Port Macquarie bur

eth

n Ken

h Rot orth

y

,N 276

Winner: Bathroom of the Year

Winner: Kitchen of the Year

Up to $30,000 The Kenneth 276 (ensuite) - Port Macquarie

Up to $40,000 The Mooring 259 - Port Macquarie

Tour our award-winning displays Acton St, Thrumster NSW 2444

hunterhomesnsw.com 1300 BUY HOME

COFFS COAST focus 117

TRADESMAN YOU CAN TRUST

C

an you tell us about the inspiration behind Wilderluxe Lake Keepit?

What sparked the idea?

The concept was born from a desire to elevate glamping within our holiday parks, creating unique sanctuaries in truly special locations. Lake Keepit was the first spark. Walking along the ridgeline, overlooking the vast lake, we imagined how extraordinary it would be to place luxury tents here, blending nature and comfort in one unforgettable experience.

How would you describe the Wilderluxe experience to someone who’s never tried glamping before? It cocoons you in nature, big skies, expansive lake views, and starry nights, all while surrounding you with luxurious touches that make your stay truly memorable.

It’s the kind of place you’ll find hard to leave.

What makes Wilderluxe different from other luxury retreats or glamping sites in Australia? Wilderluxe is set on a ridge with panoramic lake views in the heart of Big Sky Country. With no light pollution, you can stargaze from your bed or bath. A standout feature is our Big Sky Dreaming Experience, which includes sunset drinks and an Aboriginal astronomy film narrated by local Elder Len Waters, blending Indigenous and western knowledge of the stars.

You mention that guests have the freedom to curate their own unique getaway. Can you give us examples of how they can do that? Guests can explore nearby Tamworth or Gunnedah for shopping, food, or art, or stay on-site and enjoy paddle boarding, biking,

118 COFFS COAST focus

lakeside strolls, or a soak in their star bath.

They can also book a cooking class with local chef Jan Dircks at Carroll’s Gap Farmhouse.

How do you cater to different types of travellers, couples, friends, or groups booking out the whole site? Wilderluxe is designed for everyone, from solo travellers to couples or full-group getaways. There are individual Star Gazing Tents for privacy, plus communal spaces like the fire pit and lounge area to connect with others if you choose.

Can you tell us more about the design of the tents or accommodations? What can guests expect in terms of comfort and style? Each Australian-made tent features a star window above the bed, a wide deck with lake views, an outdoor star bath, and luxury furnishings from a local designer. They're generously sized for two guests and styled with thoughtful extras, binoculars, yoga mats, a record player, designed to help you unplug and feel at home.

What amenities or touches are included to elevate the stay to a “premium” glamping experience? From high-end furnishings to personalised service, we focus on every detail.

Guests receive a local produce breakfast pack with fresh sourdough, and can order meat or picnic packs from local providers. Our team also goes the extra mile for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

How much flexibility do guests really have when planning their stay? Can they tailor meals, schedules, or experiences?

Absolutely. Whether you want to explore or unwind, our staff can help tailor your stay.

Guests can cook their own meals, enjoy curated experiences, or simply relax in nature.

Do you see Wilderluxe as part of a wider trend in travel toward slow, immersive, nature-connected luxury? Yes. As life gets busier, people are craving slower, more meaningful travel. Wilderluxe offers just that, an immersive nature experience where guests can disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with what matters.

For someone considering a stay at Wilderluxe Lake Keepit, what’s one thing you’d want them to know before they arrive? We’re remote, so bring supplies if you plan to cook. Be ready for the quiet, no traffic, just birdsong and the occasional kangaroo thumping by.

How can people book, and what’s the best time of year to visit? Bookings can be made at wilderluxe.com.au Every season offers something special. Summer is perfect for water sports and birdwatching; autumn brings crisp skies and early star shows; winter is for stargazing by the fire; spring is alive with wildflowers and lake adventures.

In one sentence, what’s the essence of a Wilderluxe experience? A unique luxury escape that truly immerses you in nature, from the stars to the lake and everything in between.

TILE RESCUE SOLUTIONS FOR TILES & GROUT

P

lease introduce yourself to our readers? We are both originally from South Africa. We are recently married and expecting our first baby. We love the Mid North Coast and think it’s the perfect place to raise children in the luckiest country on earth. We hope our small business has a positive impact on the area and we’re looking forward to our engagement with the community.

Tell us about your background and experience in the industry. Brett has owned and operated Tile Rescue Port Macquarie for 5 years, having worked for the business for a year and a half before buying it. Catherine runs the office and manages the technicians. Together they have grown the business consistently, recently spreading from Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour.

Our favourite moment is when a customer sees the finished result of a refurbished shower or a rejuvenated bathroom, if we get a “wow”, then we’re happy.

What is your point of difference with Tile Rescue? Leaking showers lead to significant

structural damage that is expensive to correct, Tile Rescue has an alternative. We can correct the leak in a single day and provide a 12 year warranty for a fraction of the cost of a rebuild, without removing any tiles.

Can you give our readers an overview of all your services? We also offer a whole bathroom rejuvenation. We have products which can make your old bathroom look like new and make it easier to clean.

We provide free no-obligation quotes and as much advice as you will listen to about the care of your tiles.

What is your availability for scheduling appointments, Do you offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate customer needs? We are very flexible and work around the customer. We normally have a lead time of a couple of weeks.

What areas do you serve? From Nambucca to Red Rock for our Coffs team, and Macksville to Laurieton for our Port team.

What is the best way for customers to reach you? The simplest way is to call 0435 930 985 or you can contact us via Facebook or Instagram or www.tilerescue.com.au.

COFFS COAST focus 119

N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 5 S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

C O F F S

C O A S T

THIS IS YOUR MOMENT! THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO LIST, LEASE, DESIGN, OR CONSTRUCT, AND NOW’S YOUR CHANCE TO PUT YOUR BUSINESS FRONT AND CENTRE IN FOCUS MAGAZINE’S BUY, SELL & BUILD FEATURE. WHY YOU CAN’T MISS THIS: • Showcase new listings, display homes, developments, renos and fit-outs • Introduce your team and your edge: design, build, finance, conveyancing, interiors & more • Highlight your services to 30,000+ engaged local readers (plus digital support) • Win new vendors, buyers & project leads and grow your reputation in the community We’ll shine the spotlight on your business with a professionally written interview + photoshoot designed to connect you with homeowners, investors, developers, and decision makers across the Coffs Coast.

S P OT S A R E S T R I C T LY L I M I T E D BOOKINGS CLOSE 15TH OCT Sam Dawson Nicci Seccombe 0413 816 010, 0417 861 045 nicole@focusmag.com.au sam@focusmag.com.au 120 COFFS COAST focus

focus_contributor.

I

n our fast-paced world of constant notifications, noise, and busy schedules, the home has become our most vital sanctuary. By embracing a zenlike approach to decorating, you can transform your living space into a place of renewal, calm, and quiet focus. The key is using natural textures, soothing colour palettes, and thoughtful, design choices.

Begin with Earth Tones Colour is deeply tied to our emotional wellbeing. Earth tones, soft beiges, warm sand, clay, muted greens, and stone greys, form the foundation of a calming interior.

Painting walls in a pale taupe or pebble grey creates a soothing backdrop, while accents in moss green or rich umber add depth without overwhelming the senses.

The principle here is restraint. Allow the subtle interplay of neutral shades to build a quiet harmony in your rooms. Just as in Japanese interiors, an earth-toned home feels timeless, tranquil, and restorative.

Layer Natural Textures Choosing natural fibres and organic finishes creates an atmosphere that is tactile and inviting. Consider rustic linen soft furnishings, or handwoven throws draped over a low timber bench. Jute or wool rugs, with their earthy presence, ground a room beautifully resisting the overly polished look of synthetic.

YOUR CALM IS CALLING: HOW TO CREATE A ZENINSPIRED HOME FOR WELLNESS Solid wood furniture, especially pieces crafted from sustainable sources, serve as a reminder of durability and connection to the earth.

Grain variations and imperfections become part of the room’s character, echoing the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi: the beauty found in imperfection and authenticity. Pair these wood surfaces with ceramics, clay vessels, or stone bowls to deepen the tactile layering and emphasise a sense of grounding.

Select Meaningful Objects A mindful approach to decorating involves choosing fewer, but more meaningful, objects. Curate your space with a handmade ceramic vase gifted by a friend, a seashell collected during a restorative holiday, or a framed black-and-white photograph that inspires calm reflection. Select artwork with gentle forms, minimalist brushstrokes, or natural motifs which can quietly influence mood, lowering anxiety and inviting contemplation. Think of a large ink painting of a muted landscape hung above a low timber console, or a serene abstract in soft layers, art that whispers, rather than shouts.

Practice Mindful Arrangements A zen-inspired space is not cluttered with furniture but instead makes room for stillness.The Japanese principle of ma, the balance between objects and the empty space around them, can guide your

HOME

Styling

with ANTHONY BERINGEN

F R O M Z E N -YA D E S I G N S F O R L I F E

decorating decisions. Leave breathing room between furniture pieces to allow flow.

When arranging your rooms, ask yourself: does the placement of this item feel calm, necessary, and intentional?

Lighting for Serenity Natural light is essential in wellness design.

Soften the transition between indoors and outdoors with sheer linen curtains or blinds that encourage a play of shadows and texture. In the evenings, replace harsh overhead lights with warm ambient lamps, shaded lighting, or candles.

Bring Nature Inside Weaving in elements of nature is one of the most impactful ways to create greater calm.

Potted indoor plants not only purify air but also reconnect us with the living world. A shallow stone water bowl on a table, or a small arrangement of seasonal greenery, introduces the Japanese principle of ikebana: finding beauty in the ephemeral gestures of nature.

Creating Your Sanctuary Drawing inspiration from Japanese aesthetics of balance, simplicity, and harmony, your home can become the sanctuary where you return to yourself, shed the noise of the outside world, and reconnect with what feels essential.

COFFS COAST focus 121

ZEN-YA

ZEN-YA Designs For Life: Bringing Calm, Beauty and Function to Australian Interiors. In an exciting collaboration set to elevate interiors across the NSW Mid North Coast and beyond, seasoned interior specialists Michelle Rhodes and Anthony Beringen have joined forces to launch ZEN-YA Designs For Life, a new design partnership that blends aesthetic harmony with practical living.

Designs For Life

Michelle. “Spaces that aren’t just beautiful but feel right. It’s about balance; visual, emotional, and practical.”

The duo bring complementary skills and decades of hands-on experience to the table.

“Listening is the most important part of our job,” explains Anthony. “It’s not about imposing a style. It’s about understanding how our clients live, what inspires them, and then bringing that to life in a way that feels effortless and natural.”

W

ell-known throughout the Port Macquarie and Mid North Coast regions for their inspired work on both residential and

commercial projects, Michelle and Anthony

At the heart of ZENYA is a deeply rooted design philosophy: that every space should feel as good as it looks. Michelle and

It’s not about imposing a style. It’s about understanding how our clients live, what inspires them, and then bringing that to life in a way that feels effortless and natural.

Anthony are masters

are now channelling their shared passion for

of creating calming,

interior decorating into their business that

functional environments that reflect the

promises to change the way clients experience

personality and lifestyle of their clients. “We

their homes.

believe in homes that support wellbeing,” says

122 COFFS COAST focus

ZEN-YA’s signature style is based on the use of natural, sustainable materials, think warm timbers, textural finishes, and eco-friendly products that age gracefully over time. Their soft furnishings are a study in sensory delight, featuring rustic linens, wild silks, and other sumptuously tactile fabrics that invite touch and lend a feeling of quiet luxury to any room. This layered, grounded approach is key to creating the kind of homes that people not only admire, but truly live in.

What sets ZEN-YA Designs For Life apart is not just their eye for beauty, but their streamlined process that takes the hassle out of decorating. “Our clients are often timepoor, or overwhelmed by the choices out there,” says Michelle. “We simplify everything.

Once we understand your vision, we handle the rest.”

That “rest” includes everything from creating digital mood boards that bring the vision to life, to sourcing unique pieces of furniture, rugs, artwork, and accessories from their extensive network of suppliers across Australia, and it’s not just local stock.

Thanks to their industry The name ZENconnections, Michelle YA itself hints at and Anthony have the duo’s design ethos, access to a curated a play on the word range of exquisite pieces zen, evoking calm that aren’t available in and balance, and ya, mainstream showrooms, an echo of personal giving their clients the spaces and home in opportunity to create various cultures. truly original interiors.

When it comes time to install, ZEN-YA delivers the complete package. “We don’t just drop off a sofa and leave,” says Anthony. “We bring in everything, position it, style it, and remove all the packaging. That final reveal is one of the most satisfying moments for us and for our clients.”

Their ability to combine vision and execution is already earning ZEN-YA Designs For Life a loyal following, with projects spanning modern coastal homes, boutique retail spaces,

and elegant renovations that respect the past while embracing modern living. Whether it's a complete interior transformation or a oneroom refresh, clients can expect a thoughtful, tailored service that always puts quality and comfort first.

The name ZEN-YA itself hints at the duo’s design ethos, a play on the word zen, evoking calm and balance, and ya, an echo of personal spaces and home in various cultures.

It’s a name that captures what Michelle and Anthony do best: transforming houses into sanctuaries. Even the logo reflects the meditative calm of a Japanese raked gravel garden.

As the demand for thoughtful, sustainable

decor continues to grow, ZEN-YA Designs For Life is perfectly placed to meet the moment. With their extensive knowledge, intuitive approach, and unmatched access to beautiful, unique products, Michelle Rhodes and Anthony Beringen are more than just designers, they’re partners in the art of living well.

To learn more or book a complimentary consultation, follow ZEN-YA Designs For Life on Facebook and Instagram or visit their website www.zen-ya.com.au. With Michelle and Anthony at the helm, creating your dream home has never been easier, or more inspiring.

ZEN-YA Designs For Life: Beautiful. Calming.

Functional.

Showroom and Design Studio: 1/164 Lake Road, Port Macquarie 02 5572 9359 zenyadesignsforlife@gmail.com

COFFS COAST focus 123

DIY FOR KNUCKLEHEADS

From his shed in Sawtell to screens across the globe, Shane Conlan has built a YouTube empire with DIY For Knuckleheads. With more than 423,000 subscribers and 50 million views.

S

hane has turned everyday woodworking projects into a worldwide community built on humour, honesty, and a knack for keeping things simple. Fourteen years on from uploading his first video, the former carpenter is still proving that anyone, knucklehead or not, can grab a few tools, have a laugh, and build something they’re proud of.

Hi Shane. From carpenter to YouTube creator with over 423,000 subscribers…

How did DIY For Knuckleheads first come about?

Well, it all started 14 years ago. As a carpenter working on a bathroom, I was searching for the best way to apply silicone around an expensive bath without making a massive mess. I jumped on YouTube and was disillusioned with what was on offer, so I thought it might be a bit of fun to have a go myself. I grabbed a camera, hit record, and started sharing little tips and projects for everyday people. I never set out to build a large channel – it was more, “Let’s have a laugh, keep it simple, and help a few 124 COFFS COAST focus

knuckleheads along the way.” Somehow, here we are 14 years later!

You’ve been running the channel for 14 years, which is incredible in the fastchanging world of online content. What do you think sets your channel apart?

I reckon it’s because I don’t take myself too seriously. There are plenty of amazing woodworkers out there making museumquality pieces… and then there’s me, showing people how to build a chair out of 2x4s without losing a finger. My channel’s about making woodworking approachable – no jargon, no $10,000 machines – just straightup projects anyone can have a crack at. And if something goes wrong, I show it. People like the mistakes as much as the wins. It makes it real.

Many people dream of turning a hobby into a business. At what point did you realise YouTube could become more than just a side project?

When the cheques started rolling in! (laughs) Honestly though, it took years. At first, I was just chuffed if a video got a few hundred views. But then people started asking for more

– plans, tutorials, ideas. That’s when I thought, “Hang on, there’s a business here.” From there it snowballed into selling plans, merch, affiliate links, sponsorships – all the bits that turned a hobby into something that actually pays the bills.

With over 50 million views, your audience clearly connects with your style. How do you balance being informative with keeping the videos fun and entertaining?

I just make the kind of videos I’d want to watch. Nobody wants a dry 20-minute lecture on timber joinery. So I throw in some humour, keep it light, and remind people DIY doesn’t have to be perfect. I’ll show you how to make something useful, but if I can sneak in a dad joke or trip over a bit of timber along the way, even better. People learn better when they’re having a laugh.

You often share beginner-friendly projects. What’s been the most popular project or tip with your viewers so far?

Definitely my mitre saw tip videos. I thought it’d just be a handy little series, but they went bananas! Turns out, people love practical, time-saving tips. Project-wise, anything

made from 2x4s does really well. It’s cheap, accessible, and you can build heaps with it. I call them “quick wins”, projects that don’t take a week to finish but give you that buzz of making something with your own hands.

I had to teach myself everything, and trust me, there were some shockers early on.

But once you get over the awkwardness and treat the camera like you’re chatting to a mate in the shed, it gets easier. Now I actually enjoy the creative side.

Coming from a carpentry background, what’s been the biggest adjustment moving into the digital world of filming, editing, and building a brand?

Without doubt, learning how to talk to a camera without feeling like a complete goose.

Carpentry I knew.. cameras, editing software, thumbnails, algorithms? Not a clue. I had to teach myself everything, and trust me, there were some shockers early on. But once you get over the awkwardness and treat the camera like you’re chatting to a mate in the shed, it gets easier. Now I actually enjoy the

creative side.

Sawtell is a long way from Hollywood, but you’ve built a global audience. How does it feel knowing people around the world are learning from you?

It’s pretty crazy. I get messages from Canada, the UK, the US, Russia, Germany, the Philippines – you name it. A bloke in Iceland recently built one of my outdoor chairs and sent me a photo of it sitting in the snow. That blows my mind. Here I am in Sawtell, tripping over myself in the shed, and somehow it’s helping people on the other side of the world. It’s humbling, and a bit surreal.

You’ve shared a lot of trade secrets and tips over the years. What’s one golden piece of DIY advice you think everyone should know?

Measure twice, cut once… and even then, be ready to stuff it up! (laughs) Seriously, my best

advice is don’t overthink it. Too many people talk themselves out of a project before they even start because they’re worried it won’t be perfect. Just dive in. Mistakes are inevitable, and half the fun is figuring it out as you go.

Looking ahead, what’s next for DIY For Knuckleheads? Any exciting projects, collaborations, or plans you can share?

Big things, I hope. It’s early days, but I’m working on a collaboration with a major Australian company in the building industry that will involve a local community group here in Coffs, which is really exciting. I’m also experimenting with new beginner projects people can build to sell, giving folks not just DIY skills but a way to make a bit of extra cash. And who knows – maybe one day I’ll rope in a celebrity collab… Chris Hemsworth, are you listening? (laughs) But for now, it’s just me, the shed, and my loyal audience of knuckleheads.

Where can we find you on YouTube? youtube.com/@diyforknuckleheads Thanks Shane.

COFFS COAST focus 125

HOW ONE WOMAN’S FRUSTRATION SPARKED A MOVEMENT THAT’S CHANGING AUSTRALIAN WORKPLACES

Safety is at the heart of every thriving community, and the Coffs Coast is no exception.

This year's Coffs Coast Safety Summit brings together industry leaders, government representatives and local businesses to tackle the region's most pressing safety challenges. The Summit is designed to spark collaboration, share knowledge and create lasting change. We sat down with the Founder to learn more about this milestone event.

126 COFFS COAST focus

T U R N B U L L

CHAPTER:

N I C O L E

The Fin

W

hat is the Coffs Coast Safety Summit and what inspired it?

The Coffs Coast Safety Summit on November 5th is the 5th and final summit I'll be leading under Neon Shed before passing the torch to the Psychosocial Safety and Leadership Institute in 2026. It's both a celebration and a new beginning.

Five years ago, I was utterly frustrated.

Every October – Safe Work and Mental Health Month – the message was always the same: "raise awareness." But workers already knew bullying was harmful. Leaders knew harassment was wrong. What they desperately needed were tools – real, practical strategies they could implement immediately.

I had a vision: bring together incredible professionals doing groundbreaking work to give people what they actually needed - not more awareness, but actionable solutions.

That's how this journey began.

What are the main goals of this year's Summit?

This isn't another dry conference about compliance. We're bringing together regulators, industry experts and leaders who are making workplaces genuinely safer and more human. You'll hear real conversations, get practical tools and connect with people who understand that behind every safety statistic is a human life.

We have SafeWork NSW's Peter Barron on a regulator panel, Patrizia Cassaniti sharing the reality of workplace tragedy, and local HR expert Blyde Neser talking about rediscovering humanity in teams.

Which industries and organisations are most involved?

We've got incredible diversity – from construction and healthcare to HR professionals and frontline supervisors. What unites everyone isn't their industry, but their commitment to creating real change.

We have people from major infrastructure projects like the Coffs Harbour Bypass, small local businesses, and everything in between.

What are the biggest safety challenges currently facing the Coffs Coast?

There are major infrastructure projects, tourism pressures, and the reality that when things go wrong, resources can be stretched thin. But the biggest challenge isn't technical – it's cultural. Too many workplaces still treat safety as a tick-box exercise rather than understanding that psychological safety and physical safety are inseparable.

How does the Summit encourage collaboration and practical solutions?

like the Coffs Coast to host this Summit?

Regional areas often get overlooked in favour of capital cities, but some of the most innovative safety work happens in places like this. Regional workplaces face unique pressures – smaller teams, tighter resources, everyone knowing everyone. When something goes wrong, it affects the whole community.

But that intimacy is also a strength. Change can happen faster here. When leaders in Coffs Coast embrace new approaches, it ripples through the entire region. We're not just hosting a Summit – we're investing in the future of work on the Coffs Coast.

We deliberately keep these events intimate and regional. When you bring 80-100 people together instead of 500, magic happens.

People connect. They share real challenges, not polished I want people presentations.

Every session is designed around practical takeaways.

Kerrie Sellen isn't just talking about why shame and blame fail – she's giving you alternative strategies you can use Thursday morning. Leight Mehmet from the Coffs Harbour Bypass isn't sharing theory – he's explaining exactly how they embed safety in site operations.

to leave feeling empowered, not overwhelmed. Too many safety events make people feel like the problems are insurmountable.

We do the opposite – we show that meaningful change is possible, one conversation at a time.

What do you hope attendees will take away from the event?

I want people to leave feeling empowered, not overwhelmed. Too many safety events make people feel like the problems are insurmountable. We do the opposite – we show that meaningful change is possible, one conversation at a time.

If attendees remember one key message, what should it be?

Awareness was never the problem – action is the solution. You already know what's wrong.

What you need are practical tools to make it right, and the courage to use them.

This Summit isn't just about learning – it's about becoming part of a movement that's proven change is possible. From our first bold conversation about the Dark Sides of Work in 2022 to handing over the reins in 2026, we've shown that when you give people real tools instead of empty awareness campaigns, they create extraordinary change.

For tickets and more information, visit neonshed.com.au/CoffsSummit

I also want them to understand they're part of something bigger. Over five years, we've built a community of people who are serious about change, not just ticking boxes. That community doesn't end when I pass the baton – it grows stronger.

Why is it important for a regional hub COFFS COAST focus 127

Coffs Coast

PUNCHING ABOVE ITS WEIGHT

BUT CHALLENGES REMAIN

Business

FOCUS with ROD BARNABY R E GI O N A L D I R E C TO R BUSINESS NSW MID NORTH COAST

C

offs Harbour Local Government Area continues to be one of Northern NSW’s strongest performers, both demographically and economically. A recently published report by Peter Bell, founder of Par8o property advisory, confirms the city is punching above its weight, holding a strategic place in the region’s growth story.

The research shows Coffs Harbour is the second-fastest growing centre in the north, behind only Tweed, and will average 573 new residents each year through to 2041.

This follows a period of very strong growth between 2018 and 2023, when the city added around 720 people annually.

As Mr Bell noted, “Coffs Harbour’s central location on the Pacific Highway between Sydney and Brisbane drives its strategic advantage. But Coffs Harbour also has the population base and economic scale to sustain high order services like a major hospital, university and large retail centres, positioning it as one of the few genuine regional cities in NSW.”

While the outlook is positive, the challenges are clear. The report highlights that housing supply is now the most pressing issue for the city. To meet projected demand, Coffs Coast will not need just more homes, but a greater diversity of housing types to suit a changing population. “Housing is the most pressing need,” Mr Bell said. “Coffs Harbour must deliver a volume of residential housing supply to meet demand. Additional education and aged-care infrastructure will also be needed to keep pace with growth and needs.”

This point is crucial. Housing cannot be considered in isolation. Schools, healthcare, aged care, transport and community services must keep pace so that new homes translate into liveable, sustainable communities. Coffs Harbour has performed better than many regional centres in delivering rental supply in recent years but maintaining that momentum will require strong collaboration between business, government and the community.

What is clear is that housing availability underpins everything. Without it, employers cannot attract or retain staff, families cannot settle, and economic growth stalls.

Scan the QR Code for more event details and to book tickets Tickets are discounted for members of Business NSW, Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce, and Woolgoolga Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce Enquiries to BNSW MNC Regional Coordinator, Carla Caswell on 0447 542 675 or carla.caswell@businessnsw.com 128 COFFS COAST focus

Supporting infrastructure and services are just as important if the city is to harness the benefits of growth rather than struggle under its weight. At Business NSW, we are focused on this link between housing supply and economic development. The conversation is not just about more houses – it’s about building communities with the amenities, services and infrastructure that allow people and businesses to thrive.

That’s why we are hosting The Coffs Coast Housing Forum & Luncheon at Pacific Bay Resort in Coffs Harbour on Thursday 16 October 2025, featuring keynote speaker, Peter Bell from Par8o, followed by a facilitated panel discussion about housing supply and the implications for economic growth on the Coffs Coast. My team and I are excited to deliver this event as part of our Regional Leaders thought leadership program and look forward to bringing business, government and community leaders together for a meaningful conversation about how we can collaborate to achieve the right housing and the right infrastructure to support the growth of Coffs Coast.

COFFS COAST focus 129

Selling Quickly

New coastal land release Woolgoolga Town Centre

Woolgoolga High School

Wiigulga Sports Complex

The Retreat Neighbourhood

Artist’s impression - Indicative only.

Swell - The Retreat. Homesites from $490,000*.

Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of the very first release in Woolgoolga’s newest masterplanned community.

Swell will be the perfect canvas for your coastal dream home.

Just 1.5km to the beach, an easy bike ride to Woolgoolga High School and surrounded by amenity, you’ll enjoy a life of active and connected convenience from the day you move in.

Register now to instantly receive plans and prices.

Call the exclusive project team now on 1800 961 021 Disclaimer: * Prices and availability subject to change. Whilst every care has been taken by Clarence Property in the preparation of this advert, Clarence Property does not make any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any statement in it, and will not be liable for you relying on any information contained in this advert. Persons viewing this advert should conduct their own inquiries and investigations, and seek their own legal and financial advice.

130 COFFS COAST focus

Swell LOCALS DRIVING SALES DEMAND AT

WOOLGOOLGA

with JIM HILLERY

SENIOR DEVELOPMENT & ACQUISITIONS MANAGER FOR CLARENCE PROPERTY

B

ig things are happening in Woolgoolga. This month, we officially launched both sales and construction at Swell Woolgoolga, a new masterplanned community that will ultimately deliver more than 210 homesites.

The first release is now selling: 30 level homesites in the Retreat neighbourhood, priced from $490,000 and ranging from 499 to 812 square metres. It’s the first major land release in Woolgoolga in more than five years, so it’s no surprise that local first-home buyers and young families are leading the charge.

For us at Clarence Property, Swell is the next chapter after our sell-out success at EPIQ Lennox Head. Watching our contractor See Civil roll the first machines on site was a proud moment. This project is creating a connected neighbourhood that reflects the coastal village character of Woolgoolga, while catering to growing demand for housing in the Coffs Coast region.

That demand is unmistakable. A recent Urban Economics report shows the Coffs Harbour region will need around 900 additional detached dwellings by 2041.

Land sales in Woolgoolga are at their

lowest point in more than a decade, while prices have almost doubled since 2020.

Opportunities of this scale in the area don’t come around often, and the sales demand in just a couple of weeks in market reflects that.

In March 2025, the median house price in Woolgoolga and surrounds reached $910,000, around $60,000 above the broader Coffs Harbour LGA. With very little supply for years, when it does come on, it’s often snapped up straight away.

That’s why Swell has already struck a chord.

The community offers well-priced homesites in a premium location – just 1.5km to the beach, adjoining the Wiigulga Sports Complex, within easy reach of schools, Woolworths and the town centre.

At its heart, Swell is about lifestyle. It’s about giving local families a chance to stay close to the places they love, while also appealing to lifestyle buyers who want the best of coastal living. It’s about creating an amenity-rich community with residential options that haven’t been available in the area for a long time.

The response so far has been encouraging.

Local agent Nicole Cardow, principal of

Cardow + Partners, has seen firsthand just how eager buyers are.

“We have already taken a number of deposits from local families who want to be part of Swell.

Opportunities of this scale in the area don’t come around often, and the sales demand in just a couple of weeks in market reflects that,” she said.

Nicole added, “With over 60 per cent of the first release under offer, we’re urging local buyers to act quickly to avoid disappointment.”

For Clarence Property, a company founded in the Northern Rivers and now managing more than $860 million in assets, Swell is about more than just building homesites.

It’s about shaping a community that reflects Woolgoolga’s character, while helping address the very real housing challenges our region faces.

Interested to find out more about Swell Woolgoolga? Scan the QR code to the left of this page to receive an information pack including plans and prices.

COFFS COAST focus 131

focus_contributor.

Holiday with EMMA QUINN

FROM COFFS COAST ESCAPES

N

SHEARWATER NEST – COASTAL COMFORT MEETS RESORT-STYLE EASE

estled in the peaceful furnishings, the lounge flows seamlessly into beachside enclave of Korora, a dining area and fully equipped kitchen. just a few minutes from Reverse-cycle air conditioning keeps the space the heart of Coffs Harbour, comfortable year-round, while wi-fi and smart Shearwater Nest offers the TV options make downtime easy. Whether it’s perfect balance of homecooking a shared meal, enjoying a family movie style comfort and resort-style ease. Designed night, or simply curling up with a good book, with families, couples, and small groups in Shearwater Nest has everything you need to mind, this charming villa provides a welcoming feel at home. base to enjoy the very best of the Coffs Coast.

Alfresco Ease and Resort Amenities. Step With three thoughtfully outside and you’ll find appointed bedrooms, a private terrace framed light-filled interiors, The king by lush greenery and sea and access to premium breezes, the perfect setting master suite facilities, Shearwater for your morning coffee provides a touch of Nest invites guests to or an alfresco dinner. luxury, while the relax, recharge, and The BBQ area makes queen bedroom and reconnect by the sea. entertaining simple, while twin room ensure Relaxed Living, the tranquillity of the everyone has a space Thoughtful surroundings ensures you’ll of their own.

Design. Shearwater feel a world away from Nest comfortably daily life. accommodates up to As part of the complex, six guests, making it ideal for family holidays, guests also enjoy access to resort-style couple getaways, or group retreats. The king amenities. Take a dip in the sparkling swimming master suite provides a touch of luxury, while pool, challenge a friend on the tennis court, or the queen bedroom and twin room ensure wander down the path to nearby Campbells everyone has a space of their own. Two modern Beach. Whether you prefer to unwind in bathrooms, including a sleek ensuite, deliver the sun or stay active during your holiday, privacy and convenience, whether you’re Shearwater Nest offers the flexibility to do both. travelling as a family or with friends.

The heart of the villa is the open-plan living space. Styled with soft coastal tones and plush 132 COFFS COAST focus

Discover the Coffs Coast. Of course, the villa is just the beginning. The Coffs Coast itself is

bursting with things to see and do. Families will love the iconic Big Banana Fun Park, while foodies can explore the jetty precinct’s vibrant restaurants and weekend markets. Outdoor enthusiasts can set off on the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk for sweeping ocean views or head inland to discover rainforest trails and hidden waterfalls. With festivals, sporting events, art exhibitions, and community markets happening year-round, there’s always something new to experience.

Book Your Stay. Shearwater Nest blends nature, comfort, and convenience into one unforgettable package. Whether you’re planning a summer family holiday, a creative escape, or simply craving a peaceful break by the beach, this Korora gem promises a stay you’ll remember long after check-out.

To book your next getaway, visit coffscoastescapes.com.au, email escapes@mcgrath.com.au, or call 02 6652 8885.

Thinking of Listing Your Property Too? Coffs Coast Escapes not only welcomes guests, we partner with property owners to deliver professional management, standout marketing, and exceptional returns. Every detail is taken care of, so you can relax knowing your holiday home is in expert hands.

List or book with us. Your property. Our expertise. Exceptional results.

Coffs Coast 02 6658 1577 Nambucca Valley 02 6568 6599 Coffs Coast ESCAPES 02 6652 8885

List, Lease or Book with Us. mcgrath.com.au

COFFS COAST focus 125

with SHANE BROOKS PRINCIPAL & LICENSEE OF STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR

T

HOW TECHNOLOGY IS SHAPING THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY

echnology is transforming the real estate sector at a rapid pace, reshaping how properties are marketed, transacted and managed. From digital platforms to artificial intelligence, today’s innovations are not just enhancing convenience, they are redefining the expectations of buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants. On the Coffs Coast, where lifestyle and investment demand continues to grow, these advances are influencing the way local property is marketed, leased and sold.

Key trends driving change Artificial intelligence and data analytics AI tools are being used to predict property values, identify investment opportunities and even match buyers with homes that suit their lifestyle. Predictive analytics also assist agents in tailoring marketing campaigns to reach the right audience, which is particularly useful for targeting sea-change and tree-change buyers interested in relocating to the Coffs Coast.

Digital marketing and social media reach The days of relying solely on print advertising are long gone. Targeted social media campaigns, drone footage, and professional video walkthroughs now form a core part of property promotion, helping listings stand out and attract wider attention. Properties across the Coffs Coast are benefiting from this, with lifestyle homes and coastal apartments gaining visibility in metropolitan markets.

Virtual tours and augmented reality 134 COFFS COAST focus

Buyers can now walk through a property from the comfort of their living room. High-quality 3D tours and augmented reality apps allow people to visualise a home with different furniture, finishes or layouts, giving them confidence before even attending an inspection. On the Coffs Coast, where many purchasers come from Sydney, Brisbane or interstate this allows longdistance buyers to experience a property before travelling.

Smart contracts and blockchain – Secure, transparent and efficient, blockchain technology is starting to streamline the settlement process.

Smart contracts reduce paperwork and improve trust by ensuring all conditions are met automatically before funds or ownership transfer.

While still emerging, these solutions could offer benefits for local developers and buyers looking for faster, more secure transactions.

Online property platforms – Buyers and tenants are increasingly using digital platforms not just to search, but to lodge applications, make offers and complete documentation online. This shift has made the market more transparent and competitive with many Coffs Coast rentals and sales now being secured digitally before inspections.

PropTech solutions for landlords and tenants – Technology is improving property management, from online rent payment systems to apps that handle maintenance requests.

Tenants enjoy convenience, while landlords gain efficiency and better oversight of their investments.

Sustainability technology – Smart meters, solar, energy-efficient appliances and integrated home systems are in demand as buyers and renters look for homes that lower costs and reduce environmental impact. With sustainability a growing priority across regional NSW, Coffs Coast developments are beginning to highlight these features.

What this means for buyers and sellers For buyers and renters, technology provides better access to information, helping them make informed decisions quickly. For sellers, it means more powerful marketing, broader reach and streamlined transactions. On the Coffs Coast, this is particularly relevant as the region attracts significant interest from metropolitan and interstate markets. Agents and property professionals who embrace these tools are positioning themselves ahead of the curve.

Looking ahead The future of real estate is digital. As artificial intelligence becomes more advanced, we can expect highly personalised property recommendations, automated valuation models with greater accuracy and even faster settlement processes. Technology won’t replace the human element, relationships, knowledge, expertise and trust will always remain at the heart of real estate, but it is reshaping how the industry operates on every level. For the Coffs Coast market, this means greater exposure to outside buyers, more efficient transactions and smarter property management for the years ahead.

Thinking of Leasing?

Think Ellie McKay. Ellie is an enthusiastic newcomer to real estate, beginning her career as a Property Officer in Coffs Harbour. With a background in animal training, she’s developed patience, communication skills, and attention to detail. Passionate about helping others, Ellie is committed to delivering excellent service and exceeding client expectations.

Experience the Stone difference for yourself today.

Ellie McKay

Property Officer 0488 527 887

26 WEEK BUILD TIME * up to $60,000 of upgrades including ducted air conditioning, for only $6,990! *

Ask about our current Promotions

Enjoy peace of mind when you build your dream home with Perry Homes on a 26 week build time guarantee*.

Plus we’ll include all of our inspired inclusions for only $6,990! * That’s over 38 upgrades valued at up to $60,000!

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

At Perry Homes, we can bring your vision to life. With a choice of over 150 different floor plans we can build on any size flat or sloping block, or even knock down your existing house to rebuild a new home.

Visit our stunning display home today!

Moonee Beach Estate 47 Moonee Creek Drive, Moonee Beach. Open Thursday to Monday 10am-4pm Contact : 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. E34512.