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ALICIA SMITH

WOMEN in BUSINESS

Study health and change lives Build a career with purpose and impact Studying Health at Southern Cross University in Coffs Harbour sets you on a path to a career that can change lives.

From Nursing and Midwifery to Counselling, Community Welfare, Speech Pathology, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy and Sports and Exercise Science, our in-demand courses are shaping the future of health and wellbeing in our region.

Health Sciences Building Simulation hospital environments for advanced learning

Impressive employability rate More than 90% of our graduates get jobs*

Study abroad Global exchange opportunities and placements

Apply now

*Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023 CRICOS Provider: 01241G TEQSA Provider Code: PRV12043 Australian University

Southern Cross Model Six-week terms and flexible study options

REBUILD STRENGTH & REGAIN CONFIDENCE WITH KADO WELLNESS’ INFINITY CHAIR From pregnancy and childbirth to hormonal changes, ageing, in ry or simply the demands of modern life, many omen e perience pelvic floor ea

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realising there’s an effective, effortless sol tion.

At Kado Wellness Recovery Centre, our Therapeutic Infinity Chair offers a discreet, non-invasive way to support pelvic floor and core strength, with no physical exertion required!

WHO CAN THE INFINITY CHAIR HELP?

Our Infinity Chair is designed to support both men and women at many stages of life, including those who: Are pre- or post-pregnancy and want to strengthen pelvic floor muscles Experience bladder leakage or reduced pelvic floor control Experience lower back pain Feel a loss of core strength or stability Have back or pelvic discomfort linked to muscle weakness Struggle to engage pelvic floor muscles through traditional exercises Are recovering from in ury or surgery (with medical clearance) Want to proactively support long-term pelvic health and strength

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A SESSION You ll be seated in a private treatment room and remain fully clothed throughout the session The Infinity Chair is non invasive and requires no downtime allowing you to return to your day straight after Sessions take around minutes and you may feel gentle muscle contractions and warmth as the chair works it s comfortable and completely manageable ’

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Try your first session today for $99 or purchase a pack at a discounted rate.

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over

EST

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Ready to take the next step in your career?

We’d love to hear from enthusiastic, community-minded people who are curious about opportunities with McGrath.

If you’re interested in connecting with our team, learning more about our culture or exploring a future career with us, simply reach out. Scan the QR code below and share a little about yourself and what inspires you.

We look forward to hearing from you and supporting your next steps.

Coffs Coast 02 6658 1577 Nambucca Valley 02 6568 6599 Coffs Coast ESCAPES 02 6652 8885

Connect with us today C COFFS COAST focus 107

Watermark Apartments

Community

OPEN DAY SATURDAY 7 MARCH 2026 10 AM - 1 PM

More than

50% sold LUXURY RESIDENCES Architecturally designed, spacious two and three-bedroom residences featuring superior coastal-themed interiors and seamless high-end flooring.

DESIGNER FINISHES Every detail thoughtfully curated, including designer kitchens with elegant stone benchtops, premium appliances, and generous master suites with walk-in robes.

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LIFESTYLE & LOCATION Immerse yourself in resort-style amenities and a vibrant community with the ocean’s edge just minutes away. Experience the convenience of a major regional shopping centre, dining, and essential services just moments from your doorstep.

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I ue 182 - MARCH 2026

INTERVIEWS

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JA I M I E N I RVA NA

M US I C A L C O M E DY C O M PA N Y

TA M M Y KU I J P E R S

Jaimie Nirvana found her lifeline in dance at 14. Today she leads the stage as Dance Captain in GATSBY at the Green Light. We talk to the Sydney Opera House standout about chasing big-city dreams from a small town.

The Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company has been a cornerstone of the region’s performing arts scene, bringing live musical theatre to life and fostering a strong sense of community.

With more than 35 years working in clay, Tammy Kuijpers has shaped a creative life that has taken her between The Netherlands and New Zealand and now the Mid North Coast of Australia.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS 52. Reptile Watch - Matthew McEwan 60. Counselling Conversations - Julie Thomas 66. Fitness Update - Harley Davis 80. Women in Business - Cath Fowler 108. Education Update - Simon Doyle 113. State of Play - Gurmesh Singh CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH

WOMEN in BUSINESS

124. Holiday Home of the Month - Emma Quinn 126. Property Report - Shane Brooks

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

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coffscoastFocus

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Coffs Coast Focus April 2026

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PLAY HARD. TRAIN SMART. LIVE WELL.

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The region’s most dynamic feature returns, and if your brand supports performance, strength, recovery or wellbeing, this is where you need to be seen.

From elite athletes to everyday movers.

From high-performance training to holistic health.

This edition celebrates the businesses shaping how our community lives, trains and thrives.

FE ATUR ING: • Sporting clubs & associations • Personal trainers & boutique studios • Gyms & strength facilities • Physiotherapists & allied health professionals • Wellness practitioners & recovery experts • Nutrition, supplement & activewear brands

PREMIUM SPACES ARE LIMITED AND THIS EDITION BOOKS FAST. Reserve your space before the 12th March

MORE THAN AN AD. POSITION YOURSELF A S TH E E X PE R T.

NICCI SECCOMBE 0413 816 010 nicole@focusmag.com.au SAM DAWSON 0417 861 045 sam@focusmag.com.au

S, FI

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WELCOME TO THE MARCH 2026 EDITION.

ach year, our Women in Business edition becomes one of the most meaningful publications we produce, and 2026 is no exception.

This issue is a celebration of

strength, vision, resilience and leadership. It shines a spotlight on the remarkable women shaping the Coffs Coast through enterprise, creativity and courage. rom emerging founders to established leaders, the stories within these pages reflect the depth, diversity and ambition of our region.

What continues to inspire us is not just what these women achieve, but how they achieve it. With collaboration. With integrity. With

adaptability and heart. Business today is about more than profit margins it is about purpose, contribution and impact. The women featured here are building teams, mentoring others, supporting local causes and creating environments where both people and ideas flourish.

Nearly two decades into a career built on storytelling, licia mith, founder of The ocial lip, e emplifies this evolution. er journey in digital production and marketing has helped shape one of offs arbour s most dynamic creative hubs. With the launch of The ocial lip tudio, she has introduced a bold new chapter, providing local businesses with a purpose-built space to create content with clarity, confidence and connection.

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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.

ollaborating with licia on this year s feature has been nothing short of inspiring, and her new studio is a fitting backdrop to lead our 2026 edition.

To our readers, we hope this issue does more than inspire. We hope it encourages you to back yourself. Whether you are launching something new, scaling what you ve built, or redefining your ne t chapter, remember that leadership is built through action, and growth thrives in community. ere s to the women leading with courage. ere s to those lifting others as they rise. ere s to the ne t generation watching, learning and dreaming bigger.

We are honoured to share your stories.

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 VERY SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul - dylan@focusmag.com.au DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone - kyle@focusmag.com.au

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EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Daisy Moroney - Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

CIRCULATIONS COORDINATOR Kamie Kennedy - kamielkennedy85@gmail.com 0432 679 389

omments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the ublishers. ll reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in ocus 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. hile all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. rticles marked as Interview or ontributor are non-sponsored content. offs oast ocus is published by reative ouse ublications T T . aterial in ocus is opyright reative ouse ublications T T and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the ublisher. ll rights reserved. is printed by ustralian ommunity edia rint ogistics orth ichmond. ur paper is and certified and meets with I accreditation.

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Nolan Partners has joined

27 Offices. 5 Regions. 1 Database.

Same faces now supported by the Lifestyle network.

What’s Your Property Worth?

Lifestyle Group Coffs Harbour lifestylegroup.com.au

02 6650 0655 19 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour

Nearly two decades into a career built on storytelling, Alicia Smith, founder of The Social Flip, has turned her passion for digital production and marketing into one of Coffs Harbour’s most dynamic creative hubs. Now, with the launch of The Social Flip Studio, she’s ushering in a bold new chapter; giving local businesses a purposebuilt space to create content with clarity, confidence and connection.

ALICIA SMITH 14 COFFS COAST focus

obsession in my senior years of high school. I entered a short film competition and ended up placing 2nd. That was the moment where it clicked, this is what I want to do. I went straight from high school into film school, studying digital production, and that’s where I really found my lane.

lucky to work in Indigenous healthcare and education, travelling through remote communities across Australia.

We weren’t creating content for clicks or trends. We were creating content to communicate important messages in a respectful, meaningful and culturally appropriate way. Some of that work aired I gravitated heavily towards advertising on NITV, and that was huge for me. It while I was studying. I loved the challenge allowed stories to be of telling a story in seen and heard that 30 seconds or less. I many Australians realised very quickly might never otherwise We weren’t that I loved people’s creating content experience. stories. Sitting back,

i Alicia. You’ve said your love of ads started young, so what first sparked your fascination with storytelling through media?

I’ve always loved ads. Like… always.

There’s a very specific memory my parents still laugh about; an old RSPCA ad with a baby wombat. Every time it came on TV, I’d sprint back into the room just to watch it. Even as a kid, something about that short burst of storytelling grabbed me.

That curiosity turned into a full-blown

listening, observing, and then figuring out how to bring that story to life visually.

That love has never left.

for clicks or trends. We were creating content to communicate important messages in a respectful, meaningful and culturally appropriate way.

Your career has taken you from film school to nearly two decades in marketing. How have those early production skills shaped the way you approach social media and content creation today?

Those early years shape everything I do now.

After film school, my career took me into marketing roles across the corporate sector within health and education, particularly in Far North Queensland. I was incredibly

You’ve just opened The Social Flip Studio in Coffs Harbour, congratulations!

What was the vision behind creating a dedicated content studio, and what gap did you see in the local market?

Thank you. Honestly, this studio has been years in the making - around 4 years, to be exact. When I first started my business, it was called Reel Social Haus, and the idea was always a “house of content”. At the time, that looked a little different, lots of travel, mobile setups, working out of other studios around Australia.

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Every time I travelled for work and used a content studio in another city, I kept thinking the same thing, why don’t we have this in Coffs Harbour?

There was such a clear gap. Businesses are constantly told they need to show up online, create video and be consistent, but locally there wasn’t a space designed to support that. Add to that the reality that not everyone wants to film in their living room or create content in-store while juggling customers, and it just made sense.

After years of talking about it, it was my husband who finally said, “Enough wishing, let’s do it.” That was the push we needed. We stopped waiting for someone else to create it and built Social Flip Studio ourselves (well, my husband did), a space designed for creativity, confidence and connection, not just content.

The studio features a cyclorama wall and curated content zones. For readers who might not be familiar, how do these elements elevate content creation compared to shooting on a phone at home or in-store?

The biggest difference is the way it makes people feel. A cyclorama wall, for example, is a dream setup for photographers and videographers. It creates a seamless background, gives you incredible lighting 16 COFFS COAST focus

options, and instantly elevates the quality of your content.

When people feel supported by the space they’re in, their confidence lifts.

Creativity flows more easily and you’re not battling distractions or awkward setups. The environment does a lot of the work for you.

The studio is made up of multiple content zones, a movable arch set, lifestyle areas, a podcast room, and spaces that can be transformed to suit different brands. The studio is set up and ready to go. Instead of thinking, “The lighting isn’t right” or “I need to clean first,” you walk in and think, “We’ve got the space, let’s get it done.”

That shift matters. When people feel supported by the space they’re in, their confidence lifts.

Creativity flows more easily and you’re not battling distractions or awkward setups. The environment does a lot of the work for you.

How do you see The Social Flip Studio empowering small businesses, creators and brands to show up more confidently and consistently online?

Confidence is everything when it comes to content. I see so many business owners who know they need to show up online but feel awkward, overwhelmed, or stuck. This studio

removes so many of those mental blocks.

You walk into a space that’s literally been designed to make you feel creative and capable.

I personally feel more inspired the moment I step into the studio, and that’s exactly what I wanted for others.

It’s also not a space where you have to work alone. You can bring your team, collaborate with others, or even have multiple businesses working together in the space. Collaboration is such a big part of growth, and the studio is big enough to support that.

Your approach is described as hands-on and collaborative. What does that look like in practice when you’re working with a client from concept through to content?

There’s no cookie-cutter approach. Every business is different, and I’m very intentional about that. When I work with a client, we look at where they’re at, what they need, and who they’re trying to reach.

IT’S ALSO NOT A SPACE WHERE YOU HAVE TO WORK ALONE. YOU CAN BRING YOUR TEAM, COLLABORATE WITH OTHERS, OR EVEN HAVE MULTIPLE BUSINESSES WORKING TOGETHER IN THE SPACE. COLLABORATION IS SUCH A BIG PART OF GROWTH, AND THE STUDIO IS BIG ENOUGH TO SUPPORT THAT. That might mean brainstorming concepts, shooting content side by side, refining messaging, or mapping out a plan that actually feels doable. My goal is never to make everyone look or sound the same. It’s to help people show up as themselves, but with more clarity and confidence.

After 18 years in the industry, what shifts have you noticed in how audiences engage with brands, and how should businesses be adapting right now?

The shifts have been massive. We started with very polished, traditional advertising. Then came the influencer era, where people wanted a behind-thescenes look at real lives. After that, user-generated content (UGC) took off, people trusting everyday users more than brands themselves.

Now, we’re in a really mixed phase. There’s polished content, raw content, influencer-led content, UGC, and a strong rise in AI. It can feel noisy and confusing for businesses.

The constant, though, is connection. The brands that are winning are the ones listening to their audience, asking questions, and paying attention to engagement. Trends will change, but relationships won’t.

For business owners who feel overwhelmed by social media, what’s the biggest piece of advice you’d give them?

You don’t need to be everywhere. That’s the biggest myth out there. Pick one platform that suits you and where your audience actually is. Get comfortable; build consistency; then expand - if and when it makes sense.

Social media should support your business, not drain it.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

Either slide into our Dms @socialflipstudio or send us an email hello@socialflipstudio.com or even give us a call 0449 702 843 Thanks Alicia.

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KERSTIN THODE B E S T

S E L L I N G

A U T H O R

Kerstin Thode is a respected family lawyer and accredited divorce coach based here in Coffs Harbour who has contributed her story and expertise to the bestselling book Emotional Alchemy – True Stories of Turning Breakup and Divorce Pain into Power

by Sara Davison. Drawing on more than two decades of guiding families through separation, Kerstin’s chapter offers insight into turning heartbreak into strength and helping others move forward with clarity and dignity.

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i Kerstin. You’re a contributor to the number one bestselling book Emotional Alchemy – True Stories of Turning Breakup and Divorce Pain into Power. What inspired you to share your experience in such a way?

When I was invited to contribute to Emotional Alchemy, I wanted to contribute to the book because I see every day how deeply separation can affect people, not only legally but emotionally. In my work as a family lawyer and divorce coach, I sit with people at one of the most vulnerable points in their lives.

Many feel overwhelmed and frightened about what comes next. Emotional Alchemy gave me the opportunity to show that even the most painful experiences can lead to growth and strength. Seeing the book become a number one bestseller on Amazon in multiple categories within less than twenty four hours of its launch confirmed how many people are 18 COFFS COAST focus

searching for reassurance that they are not alone. My intention was to help people feel understood and supported, and to remind them that they have the strength to create a new beginning.

matters and property settlements. As a coach, I support them emotionally in our Divorce Recovery Retreats. The book brought those roles together in a more personal way. Being part of a group of international As the Principal professionals from Solicitor of Smart As a coach, I the UK, USA, Canada Choice Law, support them and South Africa, led Collaborative emotionally in our by the Divorce Coach Family Lawyer Divorce Recovery Sara Davison, who and Accredited Retreats. The book Divorce Coach, you share lived experiences, brought those roles work closely with reinforced my belief together in a more people navigating that separation is not personal way. separation. How did just a legal event, it is contributing to this a life transition. As the book deepen or shift owner of the law firm your perspective?

Smart Choice Law, it strengthened my commitment to collaborative Writing my chapter allowed me to step back law, to supporting our clients with dignity from the legal process and reflect more through their legal process, and to offering deeply on the human side of separation. In holistic support through my business Remy legal practice, I focus on guiding clients through often complex decisions in parenting Charge Divorce Coaching & Retreats™.

Emotional Alchemy brings together stories from highly trained breakup and divorce coaches, many of whom have also walked the path themselves. Why is lived experience such a powerful complement to professional expertise?

Training provides knowledge, structure, and clear guidance. Lived experience brings empathy and understanding. When those two elements come together, the support becomes much more meaningful. In my role as a lawyer, I provide practical direction and legal clarity. As a coach, I support emotional recovery in our retreats.

Lived experience allows me to meet people with compassion, In a retreat se ing, you without judgement. It can step away from helps me understand the pressures of the fears that sit everyday life and behind the decisions focus on yourself. they need to make.

You gain insight, That balance between learn practical tools expertise and genuine and strategies, and human understanding realise that you are empowers people to not alone. feel confident and supported at every stage of their journey.

Many of the stories in the book address complex and highconflict situations including coerci e control and emotional manipulation. Why is it so important to bring these realities into the open?

Silence can be isolating. Many people question their own experiences or feel unsure if what they are going through is serious enough to seek help. When these realities are spoken about openly, people can recognise their situation and begin to reach out for support. From a legal perspective, awareness is important. From an emotional perspective, validation is just as important. Stories can give people language for experiences they have struggled to explain. They help people feel less alone and more empowered to take steps forward. This book creates space for those conversations and reminds readers that even difficult situations can lead to healing and strength.

You founded ReCharge Divorce Coaching & Retreats™. What role do coaching and immersive retreats play in helping people rediscover themselves after separation?

Separation can shake a person’s sense of identity and direction. Coaching and divorce recovery retreats offer a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect. Through e- harge, we provide online courses, and holistic divorce recovery retreats that help women regain clarity and confidence. In a retreat setting, you can step away from the pressures of everyday life and focus on yourself. You gain insight, learn practical tools and strategies, and realise that you are not alone. You will learn to redesign a future you are excited to live. The retreats are an empowering and uplifting event designed to get you back on track.

For someone in the early stages of a breakup or divorce, what are the most important things they need to hear?

You are not alone. What you are feeling is valid. It is normal to feel uncertain and overwhelmed. This moment does not define the rest of your life. It is a chapter,

not the whole story. With the right support and information, clarity will come. I also encourage people to seek guidance early and get legal advice. Understanding your options can ease fear and help you make thoughtful decisions. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Healing takes time. There is no perfect way to move forward, only the way that feels right for you.

This book has been described as more than a publication, it’s a movement.

What kind of cultural shift do you hope it contributes to?

I hope it helps shift the conversation around separation from one of failure and endings to one of transformation and new beginnings.

Emotional Alchemy shows that even in the hardest chapters, there is strength and hope. If this book encourages people to seek support, e plore resources, or take the first step toward healing, then it has achieved something meaningful.

For anyone who is currently going through separation, I invite you to read the book Emotional Alchemy and explore the practical resources and guides on our e- harge website www.recharge-divorcecoach.com.

If you need legal guidance through our local law firm mart hoice aw, we can support you moving ahead with clarity and confidence. all our office at to book a strategy session.

Thanks Kerstin COFFS COAST focus 19

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PINK SILKS TRUST QUEENS BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH. Join us beachside at Aanuka for a bottomless

margarita brunch celebrating strong women, great vibes and community spirit. When 8th March Where Aanuka Beach House Tickets $105 from aanukabeachhouse.com.au

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RANAGRI & ANDREA KIRWIN. Award-winning

nglo-Irish folk band anagri fuse voices, guitar, bouzouki, flutes, whistles, harp and driving percussion into a powerful, unforgettable sound. When 11th March Where Bellingen Memorial Hall Tickets: From Humanitix

21 M A RC H

FREESTYLE KINGS LIVE.

Australia, you’re on the map. The 2026 Freestyle Kings World Tour is tearing across the country with the world’s best in FMX and BMX. When 14th March Where C.ex International Stadium Tickets from Tiketek

MELINDA SCHNEIDER. - COFFS COAST -

2026

Golden Guitar-winning singer-songwriter Melinda Schneider hits the road to celebrate Tender, her first original album in over a decade. When 21st March Where Nambucca Heads RSL Tickets from trybooking.com

RELICS: A NEW WORLD RISES.

STARS OF THE COFFS COAST. This

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year’s theme is Soul Train Soirée, think funky lights, big hair and Motown grooves.

Eleven local personalities will step out of their comfort zones and onto the stage, dancing alongside professionals to raise vital funds for Cancer Council NSW. When 27th March Where C.ex Coffs Tickets from cex.com.au

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An immersive, nostalgic yet thought-provoking exhibition where vintage objects and LEGO® brick creations imagine a possible future. Created by LEGO® Masters winners, this all-ages experience blends artistic detail and storytelling to spark curiosity and wonder.

When 28th, 29th, 31st March Where Yarilla Art Museum

BASKE IN THE GOOD TIMES! FROM 7PM

March Entertainment

DJ BISHO

CHASE TUNES

MITCH BURGESS

CHASE TUNES

Friday 6 March

Saturday 7 March

Friday 13 March

Saturday 14 March

REXOBEATS

DJ SALTY

REXOBEATS

CHASE TUNES

Friday 20 March

Saturday 21 March

Friday 27 March

Saturday 28 March

Open Friday & Saturday from 6pm 18+ venue |

25 YEARS of macleod’s furniture

This March marks a special milestone for macleod’s furniture, as owner Andrew Macleod celebrates a landmark birthday alongside decades of serving the Coffs Harbour community. What began as a passion for quality craftsmanship and timeless design has grown into a trusted local business, furnishing homes across the region with style, durability and heart.

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his year marks a 25th milestone birthday for you.

What does this moment mean personally and professionally?

Hitting 25 feels like stepping into a room you’ve been building for years - familiar but full of fresh perspective.

Personally, it’s a pause to appreciate the late nights, the laughs with family, friends and staff, and the “what was I thinking?” moments that became the best teachers.

There’s gratitude, a bit of disbelief, and the same spark for new ideas. rofessionally, it s a launchpad not a finish line. Growing macleod’s from one shop to four has been about more than size: deepening community ties, refining our craft, and staying curious. People don’t just buy what you sell, they buy why you do it - helping people create homes they love remains our core. I’m celebrating the team, 22 COFFS COAST focus

our past, and the chapters ahead - proof that with passion, perseverance and a touch of humour, the best is still ahead.

customers.

How did you get into the industry?

Furniture wasn’t the plan. I managed Looking back, what inspired you to start cinemas, tried radio sales, then seized an macleod’s furniture, opportunity to buy into and what kept you a furniture franchise at going?

Park Beach HomeBase.

It began with a

It began with a belief I invested my savings, belief we could we could offer more learned fast (I once offer more - control control the full shopping asked, “What’s a the full shopping experience by owning buffet?”), and jumped experience by our brand. I wanted a in. Eighteen months later owning our brand. store with pieces that I bought out my partner; I wanted a store are relevant, aspirational and a few years on I with pieces that are relevant, aspirational and genuinely good opened Beds R Us. We and genuinely good value. Owning the brand tried other markets but value. removed limits on range found our sweet spot and fit-out, letting us at home. Today we run craft a retail experience macleod’s furniture, Beds suited to our market. What kept me going R Us and La-Z-Boy Gallery in Coffs Harbour, is the drive to improve our offer and the and macleod’s and Beds R Us in Grafton. The relationships built between our team and path wasn’t straight, but it worked.

How has the furniture industry changed, and how has macleod’s evolved?

The last 20 years have been dramatic.

We moved from mostly Australian-made pine pieces to a global marketplace where consumers are more design-savvy and e pect contemporary finishes. ebranding to macleod’s allowed broader sourcing, ontrend collections, and working with overseas factories. The constant has been curiosity and adaptability, evolving with customers rather than trailing them.

What sets macleod’s apart from larger chains?

Four things: product, price, availability and customer focus. I source current, sometimes exclusive designs so customers see fresh collections. Buying directly and in volume lets us offer consistent value. With two warehouses we keep stock so customers don’t wait months. Being independent lets us decide locally and put the customer first, our aim is the best outcome, not just a sale.

That mix lets us quietly compete with the big chains and often win.

How important has local support been? showroom; something different from the Crucial. In Coffs Harbour trust is currency. same furniture or sofa ranges repeated beputation travels faster than advertising. everywhere.

If you look after the community, they look Finally, what’s next for macleod’s after you. We partner with St Vincent furniture and for you? de Paul, supplying I’m content with the mattresses and business size, growth donating hundreds for growth’s sake isn’t In Coffs of Christmas gift the aim. I’m focused on Harbour trust is cards each year. refinement sharpening currency - reputation We’re furnishing our the product mix, travels faster than neighbours’ homes, streamlining delivery, advertising. If and that responsibility and keeping showrooms you look a er the is never taken for fresh. Nurturing the team community, they look granted. and a positive culture a er you.

How do you decide matters most. what to carry and Personally, I’m leaning from whom? into a love of ancient Purely local wholesale wouldn’t give the history. ecent trips to gypt and Turkey depth or individuality we want. I travel to were humbling and perspective-shifting. I’ll major trade shows in Malaysia, Vietnam and keep travelling, learning and enjoying time China to source, then combine those ranges with loved ones. The plan is simple: keep with trusted brands like IMG and La-Z-Boy. things strong, keep improving, look after arge shows let us customise finishes, ad ust our people, and enjoy the journey. sizing and secure first-to-market or e clusive Thanks Andrew. pieces. The goal is a considered, distinctive COFFS COAST focus 23

ZIANNA

FUAD

Zianna Fuad shares how her work as a death doula supports individuals and families through the emotional, spiritual and practical realities of dying. With a calm, deeply human approach, she is helping shift the way our community talks about loss, planning and what it means to live well right to the end.

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an you share what rst called you to this wor and why you felt drawn to supporting people at the end of life

I’ve been curious about death from a young age. I was always aware that, if we’re lucky, we may live to 80 or 90, and even that doesn’t feel like much time!

I grew up in the forest in Upper Orara, witnessing cycles of birth and death. Life fed death, and death fed life. Mortality never felt foreign or frightening, just woven into being here.

When I was 17, I lost my grandmother, who I was deeply close to. Near her deathbed, she told me she was ready and curious about what was on the other side. It was the first time I d seen an adult approach death with openness rather than fear. That stayed with me. She also experienced agonising pain, which revealed limitations in how families and the health system approach dying.

Through more recent losses, it became undeniable that we need a cultural shift; one that reclaims death as part of life through

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education, braver conversations, and skilled support. I began training to offer this work in my local community, alongside other inspiring death doulas. or readers who may be unfamiliar with the role how do you describe what a death doula is and what you offer Death doulas offer emotional, spiritual, and practical support around death. We collaborate with families and services to accompany people through dying; whether sudden, expected, or planned in advance.

Most end-of-life care happens outside clinical settings. People are often passed between professionals and informal support varies. We provide continuity, education, and an extra pair of hands so people can move through dying in a way that feels aligned and dignified.

We help people understand their choices: dying at home or in hospital; formal funerals or family-led ceremonies; burial options and ways to personalise rituals. We also support the emotional landscape, helping families honour their person and process grief with intention. ou support people with end of life

planning ceremony funerals and burial arrangements. ow can thoughtful planning ease fear or uncertainty None of us know when our time will come.

Within that great mystery lives uncertainty and often fear. Thoughtful preparation is one of the most grounding tools we have.

Our culture largely avoids conversations about death. When we don’t prepare, we can become paralysed by anxiety and resistance when it is our time, or when someone we love is dying.

Practical and emotional preparation can lift a huge weight from families and communities.

It frees people to grieve and process emotion, rather than scramble to make decisions in shock.

I recently sat down with my family and created our end-of-life wishes documents together. We cried and laughed over songs we wanted to play at our funerals. We were genuinely surprised to realise how wrong we’d been about each other’s burial preferences. That evening brought us closer. It showed me that preparing for death isn’t only about the future, it deepens intimacy now. any people fear that tal ing about death

might feel morbid. What happens when space is created for these conversations?

People often say, “wow that’s heavy,” when I tell them what I do! But I don’t experience it that way. The work is sacred, yes, but also lifeaffirming. There is surprising lightness in turning towards what is inevitable.

I coordinate iindala, a community organisation supporting people through death, grief and loss.

At our Death Cafés, people consistently express relief. They say, It s so good to talk about this.

When we suppress death, we shrink from life. hen we speak about it, something opens. eing intentionally present during the nal days of life is powerful. What have these moments taught you? resence is the greatest gift we can offer one another In doula training, we re encouraged to slow things down. That might mean putting the kettle on before calling the funeral director, sitting quietly after the moment happens, allowing silence.

When we accept that everything is fleeting, every moment becomes precious. To embrace death is to stop postponing life; to forgive sooner, speak more honestly and love with less hesitation.

Grief activates adrenaline.

Slowness helps the body begin integrating what has occurred. It creates space for fleeting moments; hand-holds, shared glances, stories being remembered.

eath can be messy and vulnerable. et in final hours there is often a palpable shift. Voices soften. There is collective awareness that something profound is unfolding.

In those moments, we return to our most essential humanity. That is why this work matters so deeply to me.

don’t assume; I listen.

Every death is as unique as the person who lives it.

My role isn’t to alter beliefs, but to support agency within them, ensuring people know their rights, understand their options, and can choose what aligns with their values and culture.

You speak about embracing death to more fully embrace living. What does that mean to you?

about death and end-of-life choice?

I wish more people understood that death is not only a medical event. It is an inevitable human passage that needs preparation and a whole village much like birth While we lose certain control at the end of life, there are also meaningful possibilities for agency like conversations about values, preparedness with wills and advance care directives, choosing comfort over intervention, choosing who is present, what music is played and what rituals are honoured.

How do cultural, spiritual or personal beliefs shape the way people approach death?

When death comes close, it strips away the trivial. any people regret working too much or leaving words unsaid. eath asks what truly matters?

These choices shape the quality of a person’s final chapter and the memories loved ones carry.

elief systems profoundly influence how death is approached, whether as transition, sacred rite, medical event, or something to resist. They shape rituals, language, family roles, and what a good death means.

hen we accept that everything is fleeting, every moment becomes precious. To embrace death is to stop postponing life to forgive sooner, speak more honestly and love with less hesitation.

Not all deaths allow for preparation. Some arrive suddenly and tear through lives. ut when we are given the chance to approach death consciously, I hope we carry that responsibility with awareness. When death is held with care, it returns us to what has always mattered love, connection, and our interdependence.

In my work, I practice humility and curiosity. I

What do you wish more people understood

Thanks Zianna.

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JAIMIE NIRVANA

EMP IR E O F TH E SU N

Jaimie Nirvana found her lifeline in dance at 14; today, she leads the stage as Dance Captain in GATSBY at the Green Light. We talk to the Sydney Opera House standout about chasing big-city dreams from a small town and mastering the high-stakes flow of a life in the arts. i Jaimie. You grew up in Coffs Harbour and began dancing at JDRS. What rst pulled you into dance and how uic ly did it become something you new you wanted to pursue seriously I discovered the world of dance at 14, during a time when life felt incredibly challenging.

Dance quickly became my creative outlet and a source of stability and expression. Within a single term, I convinced my parents to swap one class per week for five full afternoons and a spot on the competition team. From as early as 15 pursuing the arts felt like my calling.

At ust you left home to chase your dream of becoming a professional dancer training full time at LA C erforming Arts Centre. How did that training shape you as a dancer and as a professional Training under the expert guidance of industry icon Michelle Hopper-Doyle and the world-class facility at LAUNCH PAC has been instrumental in my growth and success as a performer. My time at LAUNCH not only instilled in me the resilience and drive essential to thrive in this industry, but also exposed me to many prominent and sought after industry leaders including my dream, and current agent PJ Clarke.

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During my studies, I was very fortunate to work closely with Michelle in various capacities. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to assist her as it was here that my passion for creative direction, choreography, and producing truly ignited. ou re currently performing si days a wee at the ydney pera ouse as ance Captain in A at the reen Light.

What does it mean to return to such an iconic stage for your third season Performing at the Sydney Opera House is certainly a ‘pinch me’ moment. I made my theatre debut in the Dance Ensemble of tel in at arguably ustralia s most iconic venue, and have since returned for two incredible sell out seasons of atsby at the reen ight.

In my three year plan post full-time, my 3 goals were: to originate a role, become a Dance Captain, and be rehired by a company. I’m proud to have achieved all three. our career has spanned theatre lm tele ision li e performance and choreography from L to he Wilds and . o you ha e any other special career highlights Working with ARIA Award-winning Choreographer & Creative Sela Vai is an

e perience I hold very close to my heart. I first met Sela at just 15, while I was here dancing in Coffs. Ten years later, I’ve joined her company, HUMXN, and performed in her full-length work I . ollaborating with ela has been an incredibly nurturing experience, one that often has me reflecting on how far I ve grown since my younger self. he performing arts industry is often glamorised but sustaining a career ta es resilience. What does a sustainable dance career actually loo li e behind the scenes My biggest takeaway about what a sustainable dance career looks like is that there is no one size fits all. There is no blueprint that guarantees consistent work, and every artist’s journey is uniquely their own, which means comparison is simply not productive.

For me, a sustainable career can look very different from one season to the next. Some days, it means taking class after a ten-hour restaurant shift so I can continue to train and invest in my development. Other times, it’s performing eight shows a week in a sold-out production while simultaneously auditioning and making pitch decks for upcoming projects.

Sometimes I am an artist performing on stage. ometimes I am an artist working a muggle job. Sometimes I am an artist educating the

GATSBY AT T H E G RE E N LIGHT

MIN E BY SELA VA I

next generation and sometimes I am the student. The ebbs and flows of this industry are inevitable its needs are constantly evolving. one of these roles make you any more or less of an artist.

ne t steps might look like if pursuing dance professionally was truly what I wanted.

I had only begun dancing at which, compared to many dancers who start as young as , felt incredibly late. ut rather than letting earning to embrace the ebb and flow of the that discourage me, it fuelled me. I followed performing arts industry older local dancers on has been one of the social media who had most important lessons moved to ydney to in building not only a pursue their careers, My advice to sustainable career, but a taking note of where any aspiring sustainable and fulfilling they trained, the obs dancer is simple: if life. they d work, which something is calling agents they had. They Coming from a you, take the leap. became both a source Do your research regional town, how of inspiration and a and trust your gut. did you navigate roadmap for what is Dream boldly and building momentum possible. y advice to then go live them. from Coffs Harbour any aspiring dancer is to national and simple if something is international stages? calling you, take the What advice would leap. o your research you give to aspiring and trust your gut. ream boldly and then go dancers who are dreaming big but unsure live them. where to start? eaving home at came with its challenges, but I was incredibly fortunate to have a strong and supportive circle around me who helped make it possible. I vividly remember sitting down with um and my dance teacher, sh oss, when I was to discuss what my

For parents supporting young dancers, what should they be looking for when it comes to training pathways and next steps? hen choosing a school, look for a strong facility with first-hand industry e perience,

accredited courses, and a commitment to strict codes of conduct. ploring the school s alumni can also give insight into whether the training aligns with your child s aspirations. ost importantly, meet the studio directors.

I visited several schools before discovering LAUNCH, but the moment I stepped inside, my heart lit on fire, and I felt an overwhelming sense of being at home. I believe every dancer recognises that feeling and that s when you know you ve found the right place.

What’s next for you creatively, and what kinds of projects or roles are calling you forward right now? ight now, I m calling in opportunities to continue growing as both a performer and a creative. nce atsby wraps, I ll be heading to pain for a month of immersion in panish arts and culture, and later in the year, I plan to travel to ondon for further training.

The ourney might take me to a movie set, on tour with an artist, seeing my own creative work as I I I somewhere prominent, or even making my debut in the show I ve dreamed of since 3. hatever form it takes, I trust it will be e citing, transformative, and incredibly rewarding.

Thanks Jaimie.

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27 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | yarrilaartsandmuseum.com.au

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

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ELEMENT BAR Located in the heart of the Coffs Jetty Strip, Element Bar is one of Australia’s most popular and vibrant venues. Delicious food, 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

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COAST HOTEL 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, 6652 3007, coasthotel.com.au

AANUKA BEACH HOUSE anuka each ouse boasts some of the freshest flavours in the offs egion, like their ceviche. This vibrant dish includes local fish cured and layered with silky coconut, lemongrass and nam im, balanced by the gentle heat of chilli oil. ook your table at anuka each ouse and e perience it for yourself 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour aanukabeachhouse.com.au | (02) 6650 2922 | @aanukabeachhouse

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P E A C H & W O L F B A K E RY

LAUR A MARIEL GONZALEZ From a career in corporate finance to building one of the region’s most beloved artisan bakeries, Laura Mariel Gonzalez has poured passion, grit and small-batch perfection into Peach & Wolf Bakery.

Nearly a decade on, her bakery’s cult following and commitment to local growers, training the next generation of bakers and constantly refining the cra tell the story of a bold leap that rose beautifully. ou made the leap from corporate nance to full time ba ing in . What ga e you the courage to lea e a stable career and follow your lifelong passion for food?

I would say it was a mix of naivete, bravery and boredom. I traded a stable paycheck for the chance to do something that I felt was more meaningful. iving up my financial security was certainly scary, but I felt I couldn’t stay in a ob that left me bored and unfulfilled. t that time, I had some savings and a few successful pop-ups behind me, but mostly I had the conviction that pursuing my passion was worth the gamble.

When you rst opened each Wolf what ind of ba ery did you dream of creating Peach & Wolf was my third bakery, so I knew what I wanted and what I didn’t. I thought it would be small, just me and one or two staff, focused on small batch, quality and work-life 32 COFFS COAST focus

balance. But every new business demands enormous attention, and it quickly became much bigger than I anticipated. or the first three years I was working 100–110 hour weeks.

It’s still challenging. Running a small business in ustralia, especially in ew outh ales, is tough. Costs keep rising, legislation keeps changing, and there aren’t many incentives for small employers. But despite that, seeing what it has grown into has been incredibly rewarding.

It’s evolved into something I never could have fully predicted. each Wolf has de eloped something of a cult following. What ma es people line up?

This is a really difficult uestion to answer, but my best guess is that people line up because we have the best bread and pastries that they can find. any of our regulars have been coming to our shop from day one. They’ve seen us exhausted, they know our kids, they’ve seen us proud after a great bake and frustrated when things didn't go according to plan. They

know us, what we stand for and that we’re constantly developing new products and fine tuning existing ones. We don’t always hit the mark from day one, but they know that only products that are at 95% of what we consider perfection make it to the counter.

In baking, you’re only as good as your last loaf.

Consistency is one of the hardest things to achieve, especially when you’re dealing with limited space, undercapitalised production, ever changing weather and humidity.

Why is wor ing with local growers so important to you mall businesses have to support each other.

We can’t expect people to support us if we’re not supporting other local producers. ou won t find our bread in ma or supermarkets, ust like you won t find many of our suppliers there either. Large retailers prioritise margin first. or us, uality comes first because you simply can’t put poor ingredients in and expect a quality product out.

Supporting local growers keeps real food alive, and more and more people understand that it’s not just about cost, it’s about value and integrity.

Large retailers prioritise margin first. For us, quality comes first; because you simply can’t put poor ingredients in and expect a quality product out.

because we get direct feedback on how our food contributed to someone’s day.

When someone buys a loaf of bread, you rarely hear the full story.

With catering, you see firsthand how your work enhances a celebration or gathering, and that never gets old.

How have you managed growth while maintaining quality?

Why was it important to create a training bakery?

Scaling has been one of our biggest challenges.

No one is born knowing how to grow from doing everything yourself to leading a team of 20+ people.

We are a teaching bakery. Since opening, we ve ualified three bakers who are now solid professionals in the industry.

Once you move beyond what you can physically produce yourself, you have to rely on others, and that requires more than good staff. It requires clear systems, communication, and everyone in your team to believe in your vision.

I had to learn how to articulate things that previously just lived in my head. Translating instinct into process was a huge shift.

Passing on what we know is essential, not just for the next generation, but for ourselves. Once you reach a certain point, teaching what you do is how you deepen your own understanding.

Because not everyone learns the same way, teaching creates the space for new points of view that you may not have considered or taken for granted and that help us improve our products.

It’s ongoing. I don’t think you ever fully master scaling, but it’s one of our key focuses.

It creates a culture of continuous improvement, which is central to who we are.

What do you love about catering?

What keeps you inspired after nearly a decade?

It’s always a huge compliment when someone chooses us to cater their event. Catering is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do

Absolute passion for the craft. The satisfaction of improving someone’s day with something

you made is a feeling hard to describe.

We’re still learning, still innovating. Everyone in our bakery comes to work wanting to be better than their best. That culture is one of the most motivating parts of what we’ve built.

And now we’re an employer that local families rely on. Keeping the business strong and profitable isn t ust for our family it s a responsibility. That responsibility drives us to keep improving.

Looking ahead, how do you see Peach & Wolf evolving?

We’ve got a number of exciting ventures on the go and coming up at the moment.

In December 2024, we took over the lease of the café at Yarrila, the new council chambers.

It’s been rewarding and a steep learning curve.

We’ve got a fantastic team there, and the council has been supportive in our journey.

We also recently launched Yarrila on Uber Eats, making our products available for online delivery for the first time, which has been very successful.

Our empanadas are gaining a strong following and have become increasingly popular. With a pizza shop opening next door to our bakery, we’re exploring offering empanadas as a dinner option to complement their evening trade. It’s a natural next step and allows us to expand our offering while staying true to what we do best.

Thanks Laura.

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ADAM HAWKES & SARAH KERR

Arbella I C E C R E A M E R Y

Arbella Icecreamery has been a Coffs Harbour staple for three decades. Now, siblings Adam Hawkes and Sarah Kerr are steering the family legacy into the future. We talk heritage, hard work, and the art of evolving a local icon without losing its soul.

i Adam and Sarah. This ice creamery has been part of Coffs Harbour life for decades. Can you take us back to the very beginning of the Hawkes family story and how your parents rst came to put down roots here?

Dad bought a yacht in Scotland in the 1970’s and was sailing around the world when he first met um in a general store in the ook Islands. They spent the next few years at sea, sailing around the world and living a pretty adventurous lifestyle. They eventually married in the acific before continuing their ourney to Australia.

In they were trying to make their way from ew ealand to risbane when they were caught in one of the worst storms they d e perienced and were blown into offs arbour. They tied up beside the isherman s o-op, ust m from where our shop stands today. The boat was called rbella. ike so many others, they fell in love with the area and started the next chapter of their lives on the offs oast.

You’ve chosen to rename the business 34 COFFS COAST focus

Arbella, after the boat that landed your parents in Coffs Harbour, why did that name feel like the right one to carry the business forward?

The shop has been in our family for over 3 years and we wanted a name with deeper meaning and one that better reflects arah and myself. rbella felt right. It s personal, it ties back to our family heritage, and it carries a sense of story. hen um lit up at the suggestion, we knew it was the right choice.

The ice creamery has had several identities over the years; from Snowy Mountain Icecreamy to Pirates Galley, to Eric and Deb’s Homemade Ice Cream. What memories do those different eras hold for your family?

The business actually started at the ig anana the year I was born, in . y early memories are a bit hazy, but I can still picture the shop and how retro it was, the smell of the waffle cones being made and rolled by hand, and ad rousing on me to stop loitering in the storage area. It feels like a lifetime ago. hen irates alley opened at the arina, I was about five. They absolutely nailed the fit-out, it genuinely felt like the inside of an

old pirate ship. I remember a large set of ako hark aws from ad s swordfishing days back in the tates, mounted on the wall with a fake pirate s arm coming out holding an icecream. ost of my childhood was spent around the etty, hanging out at the marina, climbing the breakwall rocks, surfing and etty umping. The shop was always our base.

They rebranded to Eric and Deb’s when I was . That s the era I remember most clearly as an adult. I worked in the shop as a teenager and young adult, serving and managing, and then coming back during university holidays to help out. It s where I really came to understand the business from the inside.

What’s it been like stepping into a business that already holds such a strong emotional connection for the community? arah and I were in two minds about taking it on. e were settled in ewcastle where I was working as a geotechnical engineer and arah was teaching. ut stepping into the shop has been one of the most rewarding decisions we ve ever made. um and ad built a strong foundation in the community over the decades, which made the transition easier. The response has been

I worked in the shop as a teenager and young adult, serving and managing, and then coming back during university holidays to help out.

It’s where I really came to understand the business from the inside.

incredibly supportive, especially knowing it’s stayed in the family. It feels like a privilege continuing a business that people already feel so connected to.

you to take that leap, and how did you know the time was right?

How did your parents, Eric and Deb, shape your understanding of hard work, hospitality and what it means to run a family business?

Rebranding something so established felt daunting. There’s a responsibility that comes with a business people feel nostalgic about. But the shop was well overdue for a refit, and with a change of ownership the timing felt natural. We wanted to honour its history while giving it new energy.

I don’t think I’ll ever fully grasp how hard they worked in those early years. They opened during one of Australia’s biggest recessions, with very little safety net, no family nearby and my sister Zara was two and I was a newborn.

Now having our own kids, we appreciate how challenging this time must have been and are incredibly grateful for the hard work they put in.

They’ve told stories of living off credit cards, having electricity cut off, and Mum riding her bike from Red Rock to the Big Banana to save petrol. It was high risk and high pressure.

Through all of it, they worked as a team. That resilience and partnership is probably the biggest lesson they passed on to us.

Rebranding a long-standing local institution is a big decision. What inspired

What has stayed the same through the rebrand, and what feels most excitingly new?

At its core, very little has changed. The team is the same, and we’re still making almost everything from scratch. We’ve never relied on commercial gelato pastes or flavourings.

We build our product from real ingredients, which takes more time and thought. Having more back-of-house space has been amazing and given us more freedom to experiment and keep improving what we offer. Seeing the shop renovated and the rebranding come together

has been incredibly rewarding and exciting for us personally and we are so proud of how it has turned out.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes for Arbella as it enters this new chapter?

Now that the shop is looking great and running smoothly, we’re enjoying putting more energy into what we love, creating new flavours, sourcing incredible local ingredients, and looking to collaborate with more talented businesses around us.

At the same time, and this probably isn’t the most aggressive business strategy, we have no desire to expand. We want to be present for our kids. That was the same philosophy Mum and Dad had, and it’s why I had such a great home life growing up. We’d rather pour all our energy into one shop, one team, and keep improving what we do. If we can continue making great ice cream and remain part of the fabric of Coffs Harbour for another generation, that’s more than enough for us.

Thakns Guys.

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BARNEY MILLER CLASSIC

Sawtell RSL is a part of the 2026 Barney Miller Classic

F

or 25 years, the Barney Miller Surf Classic has stood as a testament to resilience, community and the unbreakable bond forged by a shared love of the ocean. Established in 1999 by Joel “Tubby” Bath, the event

began as a grassroots fundraiser to support awtell s own adaptive surfing champion, arney

Miller, after a devastating spinal cord injury left him wheelchair-bound. What started as a tribute to one man s courage has grown into a defining event for the Coffs Harbour community and the wider ustralian surfing scene.

This year, that same spirit of rallying behind one

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of our own turns toward Johnny. n une , , a traumatic surfing accident at D-Bah left 31-year-old Johnny with three broken ribs, a punctured lung, fractured and dislocated T10/11 vertebrae, and severe spinal cord damage resulting in paralysis from the waist down. After six months in hospital, Johnny was discharged into a cruel grey area — ineligible for government support, yet facing overwhelming medical and equipment expenses.

The financial toll has been immense. edding plans with his fianc e, harlie, were put on hold as savings were redirected to therapy, medical supplies and even the cost of his wheelchair.

Through it all, Charlie has been unwavering, navigating an exhausting and heartbreaking new reality with strength and grace.

Yet Johnny’s determination mirrors the very legacy this event was built upon. Within months, he returned to the ocean, back onto a surfboard, and into adaptive competition. With continued access to rehabilitation and holistic recovery support, Johnny’s progress is tangible.

The Barney Miller Surf Classic exists for moments like this - when community lifts those determined to rise.

To donate or get involved, please go to barneymillersurfclassic.com.au

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MUSICAL C O F F S

H A R B O U R

C O M P A N Y

For decades, the Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company has been a cornerstone of the region’s performing arts scene, bringing live musical theatre to life and fostering a strong sense of community both on and off the stage.

A

s the company looks ahead to an exciting 2026 season, CHMCC continues to grow its creative ambitions inviting local audiences, businesses and supporters to play a role in shaping the future of musical theatre on the Coffs Coast.

For those who may not know CHMCC, can you tell us a little about the organisation and the role it has played in the Coffs Coast arts community over the years? is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit community theatre company and a registered charity with the ACNC. For decades, it has brought locals together to create live musical theatre, not just performers, but musicians, builders, costume makers, technicians and front-of-house volunteers. It’s a place where people make friends, build confidence, and find their creative voice. CHMCC exists because the community shows up, and that community spirit has shaped the company just as much as the shows themselves.

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CHMCC has a long history of producing musical theatre locally. What do you think has been key to the company’s longevity and continued relevance in our region?

People are the reason CHMCC has lasted.

The committee is made up of ten like-minded individuals who are deeply passionate about theatre and about creating opportunities for others. The company continues to evolve by welcoming new members, nurturing young performers, and producing shows that local audiences genuinely connect with. Theatre only thrives when people feel it belongs to them, and CHMCC works hard to make sure it does.

Looking ahead to 2026, what can audiences expect from your upcoming season, and how does it reflect the direction the company is heading?

In 2026, audiences can enjoy Oliver! in May and 9 to 5 in ovember. This season reflects CHMCC’s commitment to inclusive, high-energy musical theatre. Oliver! continues the company’s strong focus on youth involvement and family-friendly productions, while 9 to 5 brings

something bold and contemporary to the stage.

They reflect a company that honours tradition while continuing to grow creatively.

Beyond the performances themselves, what impact does musical theatre have on the local community, particularly for young people and emerging performers?

Theatre builds confidence, connection and resilience. Productions such as The Wizard of Oz (Young Performers Edition), School of Rock and the upcoming Oliver! have given many young locals the chance to be part of something bigger than themselves. Workshops with industry professionals, including Queenie Van Der Zandt in 2025, gives emerging performers access to learning experiences that are rare in regional areas. These opportunities don’t just create performers, they build young people who believe in their own potential.

As the company continues to grow, you’re actively seeking a permanent theatrical venue. Why is having a dedicated creative home so important for CHMCC and for the wider Coffs Coast?

CHMCC currently rehearses in hired spaces across the Coffs Coast and stores sets, costumes and props wherever space can be found. It works, but it’s far from ideal. The long-term vision is a creative home: a black box theatre for rehearsals and small productions, alongside spaces for storage and set construction. Coffs Harbour is growing, but access to creative arts venues has not grown at the same pace. A permanent theatre space would unlock more opportunities for community involvement, youth programs and creative partnerships, and strengthen the cultural life of the region.

How can local businesses and organisations become involved with CHMCC through sponsorship or partnership opportunities, and what does that support help make possible?

Local businesses can support CHMCC through show or season sponsorships, with a range of options outlined on the CHMCC website.

Sponsorship helps keep ticket prices accessible, supports local creatives, and allows productions to happen at the standard audiences expect.

Importantly, this support also contributes to the long-term goal of establishing a permanent

creative home for community theatre in Coffs Harbour. CHMCC is incredibly grateful for the many local sponsors who have supported recent productions.

In regional areas, the arts play a vital role in connection and wellbeing, giving people a reason to gather, celebrate local talent, and tell stories that reflect who we are.

What value do you believe live theatre brings to the cultural and economic life of regional communities like Coffs Harbour?

Live theatre brings people together. It supports local businesses, activates venues, and creates shared experiences that build community pride.

In regional areas, the arts play a vital role in connection and wellbeing, giving people a reason to gather, celebrate local talent, and tell stories that reflect who we are.

For anyone inspired to support, attend, or get involved with CHMCC, whether as a business, volunteer, or performer, what would you like them to know?

CHMCC is for everyone. Anyone can become a member and be involved, on stage, backstage, or behind the scenes. You don’t need

experience, just enthusiasm.

By supporting CHMCC, you’re supporting a not-for-profit organisation that believes theatre is for community, not just for performance. Every ticket bought, sponsorship offered and volunteer hour given helps build a stronger creative future for Coffs Harbour. Membership is just $10 per person, with 2026 shaping up to be a huge year for Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company! We’re bringing two major productions to the stage — Oliver! in May and 9 to 5 in November — with tickets available through the Jetty Theatre website soon!

Local businesses are warmly invited to support CHMCC through show or season sponsorship.

Visit chmcc.org.au to view our Sponsorship Prospectus and get in touch via info@chmcc. org.au.

Stay connected and follow the magic behind the scenes on Facebook (facebook.com/ coffsharbourmusicalcomedycompany) and Instagram (instagram.com/ chmusicalcomedyco).

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Fresh from debuting at #1 on the ARIA Australian Album Chart with Everything Every Single Day, The Rions are hitting the road at full speed, bringing their high-energy live show to The Hoey Moey in Coffs Harbour on Friday 27th March. Ahead of the regional run, Harley Wilson reflects on the band’s rapid rise, their unbreakable bond, and why playing smaller rooms still feels like coming home.

H A R L E Y

W I L S O N

RIONs THE

ou’ve just released your debut album Everything Every Single Day and immediately launched into a huge run of shows.

How does it feel to have this record out in the world while touring at full throttle?

It’s the ideal scenario for us! We have a lot of stored up energy from holding onto this album behind the scenes for so long, so to be able to release it and immediately travel Australia and across the world is a great way 42 COFFS COAST focus

to celebrate with everyone.

The album debuted at #1 on the ARIA Australian Album Chart and #2 on Vinyl, did that kind of response change how you see this moment in your career?

I don’t think it changed how we saw the moment, but it definitely put into perspective what we, and our incredibly hard working team is capable of so early in our career. It was a beautiful achievement to share with one another, rounding off an already perfect week.

You’ve known each other since high

school. How has that long history shaped the way you write, tour and evolve together creatively?

It shapes more than I think we realise. We’re so close to each other that we often forget most bands don’t share the same bond. It’s strange to be so committed to a career with people you trust so much, so young. It’s made experiencing writing music, touring and growing up the most insane ride. Writing music together is often therapeutic and intimate, not to mention incredibly fun and rewarding. Touring is essentially being able

TOURING IS ESSENTIALLY BEING ABLE TO TRAVEL THE WORLD WITH YOUR BEST FRIENDS (BAND AND CREW) AND GET TO PLAY YOUR INSTRUMENTS TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE YOUR MUSIC.

it about regional shows that keeps pulling you back?

I guess at the beginning of our career, small pubs and bars were the first places we were playing. We learned how to be on stage in tiny rooms, so maybe in a way it’s comforting, or nostalgic even, to return to the smaller rooms around the country. Not only that, but to give back to the fans who listen from so THERE’S A far away and often don’t BEAUTIFUL have the time to travel COMMUNITY OF into the big cities to see SMALL AUSTRALIAN us - that’s important to ARTISTS WHO us.

SUPPORT EACH

OTHER AND You’re bringing the to travel the world COLLABORATE ALL tour to The Hoey with your best friends THE TIME, SO IT’S A Moey in Coffs Harbour (band AND crew) PRIVILEGE TO BE A and Finnians Tavern in and get to play your PART OF THAT. Port Macquarie, what instruments to people can fans expect from who love your music. these shows compared Being able to evolve to your past regional runs? creatively with one another often doubles as growing as people too, which has been one of Potentially some music we’ve never played my personal favourites to watch. live before. The best part about this question You’ve built a reputation as one of Australia’s hardest-working live bands, particularly on the regional circuit, what is

is that I don’t even know yet. Rehearsals start very soon, and we’ll get as wild as we possibly can.

You’re joined by different support acts across the country, including Chloe Parché in NSW, how do those collaborations influence the ibe of the tour Shows are all about the opening acts! The atmosphere is set by the artists who start the night, so of course we picked the greatest acts we could find. hloe arch is a great example! Other acts like Gordon’s Grandson have inspiring stage presence and a refreshing show, that we were lucky enough to watch support Holly Hebe (a post tour support of ours). There’s a beautiful community of small Australian artists who support each other and collaborate all the time, so it’s a privilege to be a part of that.

Looking back to Minivan and Happiness In A Place It Shouldn’t Be, what do you think younger versions of yourselves would make of where you are now?

In all honesty I think they’d believe it. They’d be shocked, proud and excited by what we’ve achieved, but I don’t think they’d be surprised, is the most modest way I can put it. The Rions that wrote Minivan and Happiness In A Place It Shouldn’t Be were just as driven as The Rions you’re talking to now, so I’d be pleased to tell them it’s paying off.

Thanks Harley, see you at The Hoey.

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44 COFFS COAST focus

Set in the year 2130, the exhibition imagines a world where humans have vanished after exhausting Earth’s natural resources.

WHAT REMAINS ARE THE OBJECTS WE LEFT BEHIND CLOCKS, STEREOS, TELEVISIONS AND TRINKETS – AND INSIDE THEM, something remarkable is unfolding.

MiniFigs have inherited the planet.

A NEw WOrLD RISES IN COFFS HARBOUR

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ut this isn’t a bleak dystopia. It’s a story of renewal, and it’s really fun.

Among the relics of mass consumption, new ecosystems are forming. Life is re-emerging in the most unexpected places. Inside forgotten household items, entire MiniFig civilisations are thriving, each one shaped by the object they now call home.

A stately grandfather clock has been transformed into a hub of innovation, where inventive residents have repurposed cogs and pendulums into a functioning time machine. An old am li er ul e i h energ a a roc concert erupts within its walls, complete with stage dives and a tightly packed mosh pit. Everywhere you look, there’s

motion, humour and extraordinary detail.

What makes RELICS so captivating is the sheer intricacy. Thousands of MiniFigs inhabit the twelve immersive displays, and every single one appears to have a purpose. Some are working, some are celebrating, some are exploring. You’ll n our el leaning in clo er canning each scene, knowing you’ve missed ome hing eligh ul he r ime around.

The imaginative worlds were brought to life by LEGO® Masters winners Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler, whose storytelling elevates the exhibition far beyond a traditional brick display. Each installation feels cinematic, layered, clever and unexpectedly emotional.

While younger visitors will be instantly drawn to the colour and creativity, adults

ma n hem el e e uall enchan e .

There’s a thread of nostalgia woven through the experience. Cassette tapes, chunky televisions and analogue gadgets spark memories of a not-so-distant past – a time when you carefully curated mix tapes and physically turned a dial to change the channel.

RELICS: A New World Rises is playful yet hough ro o ing him ical e uie l re ec i e. a ig ue ion a ou consumption and legacy but delivers them with imagination and joy.

And now, it’s right here on the Coffs Coast.

Here, Jackson Harvey answers some ue ion ha ou re ro a l ing o ask!

Interview over...

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JUKEBOX 2 IMAGE CREDIT TO SIA DUFF

IMAGE CREDIT AUCKLAND MUSEUM

R E L I C S: A

N E W

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W O R L D

here did the original idea for this world come from, and how did it evolve into such a large-scale exhibition?

Besides LEGO, we’ve both always had a love of old antiques, of the stories that a beautiful old object could hold. In our exhibtions we aim to present LEGO in a new, artistic context, and we realised that by fusing LEGO builds with these vintage ob ects, it opened up a whole realm of storytelling possibilities that could capture the imagination of young and old alike. The post-human world was a natural fit for this combination, and once we started to flesh it out, it allowed us to e pand the storytelling beyond the builds. he story centres on L mini gures inheriting the planet and building new civilisations inside forgotten human objects. Why was it important for you to tell this story? ew orld ises is a story about the future of humanity and the planet we live on.

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R I S E S

The exhibition explores an imagined future, Our creative process starts with selecting the one in which humans continued abusing the right object. A good relic needs to have a planet, and have been replaced by LEGO mini clear, recognisable purpose, a sense of its own figures. The rate of mass consumptions and character and importantly, an obvious space to manufacturing today is unsustainable, and build in! Once we crack on to the right idea, our exhibiton paints we develop the builds a whimsical, yet dark by asking questions picture of what the about what fun or future could look like creative ways might the Our aim is to if we don’t change our mini figures come use LEGO as a ways. Our aim is to use up with to interact medium to explore LEGO as a medium to with this object? What these questions explore these questions inspiration could they about what the about what the future take from the waste future could look could look like, and help the humans have left like, and help make make these difficult behind? The builds are these difficult topics topics accessible inspired by the objects accessible... particularly to a younger themselves, and once audience. a good concept is on the table, the stories Each installation naturally flow. feels like a complete universe; whether it’s a ski resort inside an old fridge or a rock concert inside an ampli er. ow do you approach world building with this level of detail?

The exhibition has previously been shown in major cities across Australia and New Zealand, and now it’s coming to the Yarrila Arts & Museum complex here in Coffs

Harbour. What does it mean to bring a show of this scale to a regional gallery for the rst time We’ve had a stellar run across major cities in Australia and New Zealand and the exhibiton has been seen by over 400,000 people. We’re now grateful for the opportunity to build on our touring experiences and bring our show to regional audiences at Yarrila Arts & Museum.

LEGO Masters introduced your work to a huge audience but L C feels li e a deeper, slower experience. How has exhibition work differed creatively from tele ised competition builds LEGO Masters gave us a great platform to showcase our work, but RELICS is the achievement we’re most proud of. The process couldn’t have been more different; for one, there was no ominous ticking red clock above our heads! Being able to take our time to perfect our builds has been a real joy for both of us, and allowed us to get much deeper into the details and the intricate storytelling e perience.

The exhibition captivates adults just as

much as children.

Why do you think LEGO continues to resonate so strongly across generations

We believe it’s the freedom of creativity and expression that it allows which really sets it apart from other toys, and over the years has solidified its place in the zeitgeist.

LEGO is more than a toy to many people - it’s a symbol of nostalgia, of play and connection. Whether you played with it as a kid, your kids play with it, or perhaps you’ve rediscovered it as an adult, LEGO is a pop-cultural mainstay that has enjoyed long-lasting cross-generational appeal.

We believe it’s the freedom of creativity and e presison that it allows which really sets it apart from other toys, and over the years has solidified its place in the zeitgeist.

The level of craftsmanship is jawdropping, and the worlds took years to build. What does collaboration look like for you two across a pro ect of this scale Managing a project of this scale requires a lot of organisation, close communication, and most importantly of all - play! We have an

ongoing motto, ‘relax and have fun’. No matter how complex a project we’re tackling, keeping connected to that sense of play and making the process fun and enjoyable is always the key to a good build.

Finally, what do you hope visitors walk away thinking or feeling after stepping into L C A ew World ises We hope that visitors leave RELICS feeling inspired to be playful and creative in their own lives, whether that’s with LEGO or another medium. And beneath the whimsical and colourful LEGO builds, if you look a little deeper there’s some key messaging about mass consumption and our relationship with consumerism. We hope RELICS prompts people to think about how they recycle, re-use and throw away the mass-manufactured products of material consumption - even LEGO. Thanks guys.

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TAMMY KUIJPERS PIPERS CREEK POTTERY

With more than 35 years working in clay, Tammy Kuijpers has shaped a creative life that has taken her between The Netherlands and New Zealand and now the Mid North Coast of Australia.

We spoke with Tammy about her journey into ceramics, her evolving practice at Pipers Creek Pottery, and the creative community she’s building through her workshops and studio.

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i Tammy. You’ve been a ceramic artist for more than 35 years, with your journey taking you from The Netherlands to New Zealand and now Australia. Can you take us back to where it all began and what rst drew you to clay?

I first became involved with clay in the early s while living in The etherlands. I enrolled in a night class at a pottery studio in aarlem called e olle eur which translates to The ounded oor . I kept the very first little pot I ever made on a kick wheel. It s a tiny little vase for holding a few daisies. I was so proud of it when it surfaced from the kiln and from that

moment on, I was hooked fter returning to ew ealand I continued learning through night classes and workshops with national and international ceramicists. In I completed a evel dvanced iploma in rt esign. ince then I have e hibited my artworks in solo and collaborative e hibitions throughout , and I have been fortunate to receive some awards at uried e hibitions. I began tutoring pottery classes after completing a ertificate in dult ducation. Tutoring has become an important part of my work, allowing me to share traditional skills, foster an appreciation for handmade ob ects and support creative connections that naturally grow through working with clay.

What led you to settle in Dondingalong

What themes, materials, or processes are you most drawn to in your own ceramic practice?

on the MId North Coast, and what was it about it that felt right for Pipers Creek Pottery?

When I’m having a break from throwing coffee mugs, my work explores texture, form and light resulting in ceramic artworks that are both visually appealing and entirely one-of-a-kind.

During the COVID years I house-sat on a farm on the Macleay River so I was already familiar with the area and felt comfortable here. My partner and I have always preferred rural living and when we had a look at real estate on the Mid North Coast, this property offered exactly what we were looking for - a small house, a separate building for a pottery studio and a couple of single garages for storage. Being just 20 minutes from Crescent Head was an added bonus as we both love the beaches. We also

agreed on NO gardens and NO pets allowing us to focus on what we love doing most: working creatively in our workshops.

How would you describe your work to someone discovering it for the rst time

My pottery practice is diverse. I work on the wheel, sculpt, slip cast and also create one-off paper clay pieces by extruding slurry through a thin nozzle into moulds producing lace-like forms. Some of my paper clay pieces incorporate LED lighting transforming them into functional lighting.

When I’m having a break from throwing coffee mugs, my work explores texture, form and light resulting in ceramic artworks that are both visually appealing and entirely one-of-akind.

I am drawn to the theme ‘Chaos and Order’.

Chaos is part of everyday life and while many people try to control it, I’m quite comfortable working within it. For this reason, I enjoy working with paper clay because the process is repetitive but unpredictable, and I like letting the material do what it wants rather than trying to tidy it up. Many of these works become lighting. When light passes through the ceramic surface it throws unexpected shadows onto the surrounding walls. For me the work isn’t just the object itself - it’s also about the light, the shadows and the atmosphere they create.

You’re now running one-off and weekend workshops since moving here, what do you love most about teaching pottery?

What I love most about teaching pottery is the sense of connection it creates. Having lived in Dondingalong for just over two years, teaching has been a wonderful way to meet people and foster new friendships. I also love sharing knowledge - from the history of pottery to its processes, challenges and small triumphs. Pottery is a deeply therapeutic practice and it's rewarding to offer people a creative space to slow down, focus and enjoy making with their hands in an otherwise fastpaced world.

Continued over...

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OPEN STUDIO DAY IS DESIGNED FOR THOSE WHO ARE ALREADY A LITTLE CLAY-ADDICTED - A RELAXED SPACE WHERE PEOPLE CAN WORK ON THEIR OWN PROJECTS FOR A SMALL FEE, WITHOUT FORMAL TUITION, WHILE STILL HAVING GUIDANCE IF NEEDED.

PIPERS CREEK POTTERY

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You offer specialty workshops like pit ring and ra u ring. What ma es these techni ues so e citing for participants

I look forward to inviting and hosting international potters because this is how I learned pottery myself through workshops with a wide range of makers.

I offer specialty workshops such as pit firings and raku firings because I believe it s important, and seriously fun, to go beyond standard introductory classes. hile many people en oy a one-off handbuilding or wheel throwing e perience, others are curious to dive deeper. ome learners benefit more from immersive weekend workshops rather than longer basic courses. These workshops allow participants to e plore alternative firing methods, test and make their own glazes, try a range of decorating techni ues, take part in loading and unloading kilns, and even tackle larger wheel thrown forms.

will support weekend workshops, give me room to create my own work and enable me to offer a weekly pen tudio ay. pen tudio ay is designed for those who are already a little clay-addicted, a rela ed space where people can work on their own pro ects for a small fee, without formal tuition, while still having guidance if needed.

The studio will include an area to display our finished work my ceramic artworks and an o s recycled products making it a place to create, connect and be inspired.

ou and your partner are currently building a large new pottery wor shop on your rural bloc . ell us about your ision for the wor shops and wee ly drop in studio sessions what ind of creati e hub are you hoping to create

his year you re also hosting wor shops with isiting international potters. Why is it important to you to bring these inds of opportunities to the region What can participants e pect from these e periences

ur vision for the new workshop is to create a welcoming and inspiring creative hub for both making and learning. fter working out of two small spaces for the past two years, this purpose-built studio will allow everything to come together in one functional space. It

I look forward to inviting and hosting international potters because this is how I learned pottery myself - through workshops with a wide range of makers. earning from different ceramicists opens up new skills, perspectives and ways of working especially

pottery with the community.

when they bring specialist knowledge that isn t available locally. ot everyone can afford to travel overseas for workshops so I love the idea of bringing these opportunities closer to home and sharing a broader world of id orth oast ceramics

inally for anyone who s been curious about pottery but ne er tried it what would you say to encourage them to ta e that rst step I d simply say, give it a go . ottery isn t necessarily about becoming an e hibition potter - it s about having an interest that brings en oyment and balance to life. hether you re busy with work, raising a family or thinking ahead to retirement, pottery offers a chance to slow down, use your hands and release a bit of tension. It s rela ing, therapeutic and a wonderful way to meet interesting people. ou don t need e perience - ust a little curiosity. ee where it takes you. ou won t regret it. han s

ammy.

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focus_contributor.

Reptile W with MATTHEW McEWAN REPTILE SPECIALIST

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pecies like bearded dragons, blue-tongue skinks, and small species of pythons are ideal.

They’re hardy and very easy to maintain in captivity. These reptiles are popular because of their smaller size which makes them easier to handle.

What makes a reptile suitable for a rst time eeper Beginner-friendly reptiles like the above-mentioned species are easily conditioned to handling and food is available from pet shops and food stores. Enclosures and all of the necessary fittings can be purchased through pet shops and the internet.

There is also plenty of information online for each species so anyone who is handy can build their own. It would be advisable to avoid large pythons and monitors as they require larger enclosures and are much harder to handle. ow important is enclosure setup Even easy to keep low maintenance reptiles need the right size enclosure with proper heating, lighting, and hiding spots. A cramped or poorly equipped habitat can lead to stress, illness, and behavioural issues. When a reptile is young and small, it can become stressed very easily in a large environment, so a small 52 COFFS COAST focus

WHICH REPTILES ARE EASIEST FOR BEGINNERS IN NSW? enclosure size is better for starting out.

Which reptiles are low maintenance Bearded Dragons, Blue-tongued Skinks and the Children’s Pythons are what we encourage first time reptile owners to ac uire as these are considered low-maintenance. The lizards eat easily sourced food such as fruit, vegetables, insects and most meat offcuts. The pythons eat rodents which can be bred or purchased.

If uneaten food and faecal matter is removed asap, smell and the risk of diseases and infections are reduced dramatically.

Are there appealing species beginners should a oid Turtles are often sought after as pets for beginner keepers but most people new to the hobby are unaware of their lifespan. Most freshwater species live between 20 to over 40 years making these animals a huge commitment which is often overlooked.

Geckos may be tempting but are nocturnal and re uire specific habitats so these are often better for experienced keepers. oes lifespan affect choice Lifespan matters but is often not thought about when purchasing a reptile. Long lived species aren’t necessarily harder to keep, but you do have to factor in the commitment involved in owning these animals. Bearded dragons have an

average lifespan of 12-13 years making these and ideal choice. Blue-tongue skinks can live 20+ years, so commitment is key. Prospective owners should plan for long-term care.

How should beginners manage heating, lighting and humidity se species-specific care guides and reliable equipment. Provide a temperature gradient so reptiles can selfregulate. Humidity doesn’t need to be at the forefront of enclosure husbandry for the commonly kept reptiles but a couple of light sprays of water from an atomizer every few days may benefit and can help with the skin of the animal not drying out too much. Of course, fresh water should always be supplied.

Common beginner mistakes and how to a oid them Mistakes include over or underfeeding, incorrect heating or lighting and poor enclosure maintenance such as leaving defecation in with the animal for prolonged periods of time.

Most visits to a veterinary clinic are due to bad husbandry and neglected animals.

Where to get ad ice or mentorship Beginners can turn to licensed keepers who have good reptile knowledge or reptile groups and reptile expos to gain further advice or mentorship.

H E A LT H & W E L L B E I N G COVER

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WELCOME TO

A NEW ER A IN SPECIALIST ACNE & ROSACEA CARE ON THE MID NORTH COAST

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new dermatology clinic has arrived on the Mid North Coast - who are neoSKN Dermatology and Laser?

At neoSKN Dermatology and Laser, we are a specialist dermatology clinic dedicated to the comprehensive management of acne and rosacea. The clinic was founded by expert dermatologists Dr Bale and Dr Malesu, founders of Hunter Coast Dermatology and Laser in Newcastle, where they have managed thousands of patients with acne and rosacea. neoSKN was created with a clear purpose: to provide advanced, evidence-based acne and rosacea care locally on the Mid North Coast, without patients needing to travel to metropolitan centres.

Our expertise lies in combining medical dermatology with advanced laser technology to deliver personalised, long-term treatment plans.

Acne and rosacea are not simply cosmetic concerns - they are complex medical conditions that require precision, experience, and careful 54 COFFS COAST focus

AN INTRODUCTION TO neoSKN DERMATOLOGY AND LASER

management. That is exactly what we provide.

What makes neoSKN different from other skin clinics in the region?

The difference lies in specialist expertise and integration with advanced laser technologies. neo is led by fully ualified dermatologists who have completed many years of advanced training specifically in conditions affecting the skin. This level of training ensures accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment selection, and safe management.

What truly sets us apart is our integrated medical and laser treatment model. Acne and rosacea often require more than creams or tablets. At neoSKN, dermatologists design and oversee every treatment plan, while advanced laser procedures are delivered by highly trained dermatology nursing staff under specialist supervision.

This collaborative approach allows us to control active inflammation, reduce redness and flushing, minimise and prevent scarring, improve overall skin clarity, and maintain skin health.

Why focus speci cally on acne acne scarring and rosacea?

Acne and rosacea are among the most misunderstood skin conditions. Many patients spend years trying over-the-counter products or non-specialist treatments without achieving lasting control.

These conditions are driven by underlying inflammation and often fluctuate over time.

They can significantly impact confidence, mental health, and quality of life.

Specialist care matters because early and correct treatment reduces long-term scarring and persistent redness, combination therapy produces superior outcomes, and ongoing management prevents relapse.

What treatments does neoSKN provide for acne scarring and rosacea Our approach is individualised. Treatment plans may include prescription medical therapies to control inflammation and breakouts, dermatologist-directed skincare, vascular laser treatments to reduce rosacea-related redness, laser therapies to improve acne scarring, and

long-term maintenance strategies to prevent recurrence.

By combining medical management with laser technology, we address both the underlying disease process and its visible effects.

Do you treat other skin concerns?

While our primary focus is acne, acne scarring and rosacea management, we also offer treatment for pigmentation concerns and skin rejuvenation, provided with the same dermatologist-led precision and safety standards.

Why is dermatologist-led laser treatment important?

Laser devices are powerful medical tools. hen used correctly, they can significantly improve acne scarring, persistent redness, and pigmentation. Laser technology delivers optimal results when guided by specialist expertise.

At neoSKN, all laser treatments are selected and overseen by specialist dermatologists.

Settings are tailored to individual skin types and conditions, and treatments are integrated into a broader medical plan. This ensures optimal outcomes with minimal risk.

Who should consider seeing neoSKN? ou may benefit from specialist care if you have persistent or severe acne, experience rosacea flare-ups or visible vessels, are developing acne scarring, have tried multiple treatments without lasting success, or are seeking a structured long-term management plan.

If acne or rosacea is affecting your confidence or wellbeing, specialist intervention can be transformative.

How to book or visit neoSKN Dermatology and Laser: neoSKN Dermatology and Laser is located on the Mid North Coast, providing specialist acne and rosacea care close to home.

Appointments can be made directly or via GP referral (Medicare rebates may apply for eligible consultations and vascular laser therapies).

Location: 1/14 Edgar Street Coffs Harbour, NSW Phone: (02) 6699 3695 Fax: (02) 5656 1199 Email: admin@neoskndermatology.com.au Website: neoskndermatology.com.au COFFS COAST focus 55

DR MATTHEW SCHWASS

C O F F S

H A R B O U R

ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS

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s a fellowship-trained surgeon providing general orthopaedic care, and sub-specialising in joint replacement, sports injuries, and trauma, Dr Schwass is known for his calm, thoughtful approach and his focus on helping patients understand their condition and treatment options. His philosophy is simple listen first and deliver evidence-based care with clarity and compassion.

As co-founder and Practice Manager of Coffs Harbour Orthopaedic Specialists, Lucy brings the same care to the patient experience.

After a career in immigration law and client advocacy, she now focuses on ensuring patients feel supported and informed from first contact through to recovery.

Together, Matthew and Lucy have created a family-run practice that blends advanced orthopaedic care with warmth and accessibility. With strong ties to the region, they are passionate about improving access to specialist care on the Mid North Coast and keeping patients close to home.

Their work reflects a shift toward personalised, collaborative medicine, where communication

56 COFFS COAST focus

trust, and continuity of care matter as much as technical skill.

For readers who may not be familiar, what does an orthopaedic surgeon do, and who do you treat? Orthopaedic surgery focuses on conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, and often becomes relevant when pain, injury, or reduced mobility begins to affect everyday life. I see patients of all ages, from children and teenagers with growth-related or sporting injuries, through to adults with arthritis, trauma, or complex joint problems.

My training and fellowship were deliberately broad, allowing me to offer high-level orthopaedic care across a wide range of conditions. This includes arthritis requiring hip, knee, or shoulder replacement, muscle, tendon, ligament, and cartilage injuries, sports injuries, and fracture management. I also have a special interest in complex and revision joint replacement, including painful or failed joint replacements. During my fellowship, I worked with world leaders on ground-breaking procedures, experience that I now bring back to the Coffs Harbour community.

While I perform advanced surgical procedures,

When Dr Matthew Schwass and his wife Lucy returned to Coffs Harbour, they did so with a clear goal: to build a modern orthopaedic practice grounded in clinical excellence, genuine connection, and longterm commitment to the local community.

a key part of my role is helping patients understand their diagnosis, consider both surgical and non-surgical options, and choose the most appropriate pathway for recovery.

What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine, and what drew you to orthopaedic surgery? From an early age I found medicine (particularly surgery) completely captivating. I do think some people have a calling in life, and I feel very fortunate to have found mine early. Orthopaedic surgery brings together everything I enjoy: working closely with people, using my brain, and using my hands to fi a physical problem. That combination is incredibly satisfying.

You and Lucy made a deliberate decision to return to Coffs Harbour – what made this the right place to build your practice?

In many ways, it felt like coming home. Lucy’s family moved here when she was young, and her Mum still lives locally. We spent six months here during my training, and I really fell in love with the region and the coastal lifestyle.

Having lived and worked across several regional areas of New South Wales, we’d seen firsthand how difficult timely access to specialist care can be, which shaped our vision

for a practice built around improving local services.

I strongly believe that medical decision making should be a collaborative process between the patient and the doctor, and I do everything I can to make my patients feel part of the process.

How would you describe your approach to patient care?

I really emphasise clear, compassionate communication and developing a thoughtful, evidence-based plan that genuinely serves the patient’s long-term wellbeing. I strongly believe that medical decision making should be a collaborative process between the patient and the doctor, and I do everything I can to make my patients feel part of the process. My undergraduate degree in philosophy gave me a strong grounding in ethics and reflective thinking, which continues to influence how I practise.

My goal is for the patient to come away from our interactions feeling listened to, supported, and like they were a key part in our plan.

Why are communication and trust so important, particularly when patients are facing surgery? When someone is injured

or in pain, you’re often meeting them at one of their most vulnerable moments. For a patient who has had a serious injury, that day may be the worst day of their life. Remembering this keeps the focus where it belongs – on the patient. Helping people understand what’s happening, what their options are, and how we’ll work together to get them better relies on genuine connection, clear communication, and mutual trust.

Lucy, as Practice Manager, what was your vision for the practice? My vision was shaped by growing up in Coffs Harbour, and watching my Mum work in allied health. I saw the importance of continuity of care and the trust that develops when patients feel known and supported over time. y corporate career taught me firsthand how overwhelming complex systems can feel when you’re already under stress, so I knew we wanted to create a practice where

patients feel supported, listened to, and cared for. Being a local, family-run practice was also important to us. We wanted to build something with strong roots in the community, with an emphasis on building relationships and trust with patients.

Why is continuity of care so important in a regional community like Coffs Harbour?

Historically, many complex cases from regional areas were referred to major cities. Our goal has been to bring advanced orthopaedic care, equivalent to what you’d receive in any large centre, to the local community. Seeing patients locally, operating locally, and following them up close to home reduces disruption and keeps people near their support networks. I’ve put a lot of time into building relationships with local GPs and allied health professionals, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. ow can people nd out more or access your services? We are conveniently located in the Specialist Medical Centre opposite the hospital. Patients can obtain a referral through their GP or book with us directly.

More detailed information is available on our website: coffsorthopaedic.com.au COFFS COAST focus 57

DAY SPA

The Heart of Figtree: A Team Built on Care, Connection and Confidence

A

t Figtree Day Spa, beauty extends far beyond treatments. It lives in the hands, hearts and shared values of a close-knit team of women who genuinely love what they do and love doing it together. From the moment you step inside, you feel it: warmth, calm and a sense of belonging. This is more than a workplace; it is a sanctuary.

At the centre of it all is Nicola, owner and founder of Figtree Day Spa. Her vision was to create a space where both clients and therapists feel truly cared for, supported and inspired. That vision is woven into every detail of the spa and reflected in the culture she has carefully nurtured.

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One where individuality is celebrated, growth is encouraged, and genuine care underpins every client experience.

you do makes work feel effortless. Her warmth and intention shine through every treatment she offers.

For Tianna, Figtree has been the highlight of her career. elping clients feel confident and nurtured is what drives her, and she describes the team as her “little family.” Alex echoes this sentiment, speaking of the rare bond shared between the therapists as a supportive environment that feels like a second home.

With over 17 years of experience, Krystal brings exceptional expertise to the team. Her approach is results-driven yet deeply nurturing, ensuring every client feels like a VIP. Meanwhile, Layla is often the first welcoming smile guests see, setting the tone for a calming and thoughtful experience from the moment they arrive.

Zali’s journey with Figtree represents courage and growth. After changing careers at 25 to follow her passion for beauty therapy, she has found a place where she can truly thrive. Jorja, equally passionate, believes that loving what

What unites the Figtree team is a shared belief that beauty is deeply personal. At Figtree Day Spa, it never feels like just a job, it’s a place where passion is encouraged, confidence is nurtured, and every client becomes part of the family.

COMPREHENSIVE ORTHOPAEDIC SURGICAL CARE SPECIALIST DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT FOR BONE, JOINT, AND MUSCLE CONDITIONS We provide expert orthopaedic surgical care for adults and children across the Mid North Coast.

Led by fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon Dr Matthew Schwass, our practice specialises in the assessment and surgical management of joint disease, sports injuries, fractures, and complex musculoskeletal conditions. Our focus is on clear diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and helping you return to comfortable movement and the things you love as safely and efficiently as possible.

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGICAL SERVICES: Hip & knee replacement Management of sports injuries Fracture & trauma surgery Hand, elbow & shoulder surgery Foot & ankle surgery

TREATMENT OPTIONS • • • • • • •

Comprehensive assessment and diagnosis Non-surgical and conservative management Joint replacement surgery Minimally invasive and keyhole surgery Fracture management and trauma care Individualised treatment plans Coordinated post-operative care and rehabilitation

OUR APPROACH • • • •

Clear explanations and patient-centred care Evidence-based decision making Focus on restoring function, confidence, and quality of life Close collaboration with GPs, physiotherapists, and allied health teams

REFERRALS WELCOME. APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR NEW AND EXISTING PATIENTS 02 5656 1103 | info@coffsorthopaedic.com.au | Suite 3/343 Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour

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focus_contributor.

HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PARTNER WHEN YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLES ARE SO DIFFERENT

C

ommunication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, but what happens when you and your partner have vastly different communication styles?

Whether one of you prefers to talk things out immediately while the other needs time to process, or one values directness while the other leans toward subtlety, these differences can create misunderstandings and tension.

The first step to improving communication is understanding how you and your partner express yourselves. Ask yourself: Does my partner prefer verbal or non-verbal communication? Are they more direct or indirect in expressing their thoughts? Do they need time to process their feelings before discussing them? Take the time to observe and discuss these differences with your partner. Understanding their style can help you approach conversations in a way that feels comfortable for both of you.

While your communication styles may differ, there is always room for compromise. For example: if one of you prefers immediate discussions and the other needs time to process, agree on a specific time to revisit the conversation. If one of you values detailed explanations and the other prefers conciseness, find a balance by summarising key points while allowing space for elaboration when needed.

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Finding common ground shows that you respect each other’s needs and are willing to work together.

Active listening is a powerful tool for bridging communication gaps. Focus on your partner and give them your full attention without interrupting or planning your response.

Summarise what they have said to ensure you understand their perspective. Ask clarifying questions if something is not clear, ask for more details in a non-judgmental way. Active listening helps your partner feel heard and valued, even if your communication styles differ.

When discussing sensitive topics, using “I” statements can prevent your partner from feeling blamed or defensive. “I” statements focus on your feelings and experiences, making it easier for your partner to empathise and respond constructively. When discussing sensitive topics, address the issue at hand rather than attacking the other person.

Discussing sensitive topics can be daunting, creating a neutral and safe environment may make these conversations more productive.

Select a time and location where you both feel comfortable and free from distractions. Avoid bringing up sensitive topics during stressful or busy moments.

Establish guidelines for the conversation, such as no interrupting, no blaming, and taking turns speaking. Healthy communication includes setting and respecting boundaries. Clearly

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

articulate your needs and limits and encourage others to do the same. This ensures a respectful and constructive dialogue. If a conversation becomes too heated, it is okay to take a break.

Stepping away may help you both cool down and approach the discussion with a clearer mindset.

Adapting to different communication styles takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and your partner as you navigate this process. atience and fle ibility create a safe space for both partners to express themselves authentically.

Having different communication styles does not mean your relationship is doomed to misunderstandings. By understanding each other s preferences, finding common ground, practicing active listening, and being patient, you may turn these differences into opportunities for growth and connection.

Remember, effective communication is a skill that can be learned and refined. ith effort and empathy, you may bridge the gap and create a partnership built on mutual understanding and respect.

Until next time, be kind and gentle with yourself.

Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach) Member of the Australian Counselling Association

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A R E YO U OP E R AT I NG F R O M

PRESSURE orPOWER Across the Coffs Coast, many business owners and professionals carry more than just a workload. They carry responsibility - for teams, families, clients and community.

From the outside, they look composed and capable.

B

ut inside, the pressure often never truly switches off.

Modern neuroscience shows that when we operate under ongoing stress, the nervous system adapts to it. The brain becomes wired for vigilance. Even when there is no immediate threat, the body remains slightly alert. Over time, this can affect sleep, concentration and emotional steadiness, even in people who are outwardly high-performing.

This isn’t about burnout or breakdown. It’s subtler than that.

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It s the constant overthinking. The difficulty of relaxing. The sense that even success feels like a lot of effort.

When the nervous system stays in a low-level stress state, decision-making becomes more reactive. reativity narrows. onfidence can start to feel forced rather than natural.

The good news is that the brain is changeable.

With the right approach, stress patterns can be rewired at a subconscious level. When that happens, the nervous system settles. Thinking becomes clearer. Responses become steadier.

Performance feels sustainable instead of

driven by pressure.

On the Coffs Coast, where lifestyle and ambition often sit side by side, many professionals are beginning to recognise that long-term success isn’t built on constant tension.

It’s built on regulation.

The question isn’t whether you can handle pressure, It’s whether you’re ready to operate from power instead. If this is speaking to you, call Krystal on 0421 454 947.

W H E R E B E A U T Y M E E T S L A S H H E A LT H Coastal Lash was founded by Alysha Pearse with a clear focus: to create beautiful results without compromising lash health. With over seven years of industry experience, Alysha has built one of the region’s most trusted studios, combining precision artistry with a strong foundation in eye safety and long-term retention.

approach. Every set is carefully tailored to suit the client’s natural lashes, eye shape and lifestyle ensuring strength, comfort and sustainable wear. Known for highretention techniques and honest, education-led consultations, Alysha has remained consistently fully booked, a reflection of her technical expertise and the trust she has built in the community.

Rather than following trends that prioritise volume over integrity, Coastal Lash takes a balanced

At Coastal Lash, healthy lashes aren’t an afterthought, they’re the starting point.

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What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, fatigue, infertility, and gastrointestinal issues. It affects 1 in 7 Australian women, as well as transgender and gender diverse people. Many cases go undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed. The "March into Yellow" campaign

by Endometriosis Australia encourages wearing yellow to raise awareness and spark conversations about the disease.

Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic

How to refer to the EPP Clinic Our amazing team also includes GPs, Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and Clinical Psychologist.

The Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic operated through the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre is one of 33 Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics across Australia, offering multidisciplinary care for those with persistent pelvic pain. The clinic team includes Women's Health GPs, nurses, physiotherapists, educators, dietitians, and mental health workers, all focused on improving patient outcomes. Over 270 people have attended the clinic since it opened in 2023. We extend our sincere gratitude to Healthy North Coast Primary Health Network for their continued funding and support.

You can self-refer or be referred by your GP. You can all our team on 02 6652 8111 to discuss how the EPP Clinic can support you on your journey. 40 Years of the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre – Join our ‘Walk for Women’s Health’

Patient Experiences

As part of the 40year celebrations, the community is invited to take part in the Walk for Women’s Health at the Jetty Foreshore on Wednesday 6 May 2026, recognising four decades of care, advocacy and connection delivered by the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre.

• “Going to this clinic was the best thing I’ve done for myself.”

• “I have felt heard and supported and have recommended it to others.”

• “Finally, I’m being listened to and given ways to manage the pain.”

This year, the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre celebrates 40 years of supporting women’s health and wellbeing across our community. Since 1986, the Centre has grown into a vital and trusted service for women and families throughout the Mid North Coast.

Follow our social media for registration on this important community event.

We provide safe, inclusive, high quality health care and strive for health equity in our community.

Empowerment is at the heart of what we do.

Call to make an appointment 02 6652 8111 | 45–53 Little Street, Coffs Harbour, 2450 Health Voyage – healthvoyage.org.au |

@healthvoyage_au

Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre |

@ch_womens_health_centre

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healthvoyage_au coffswhc

MEET

KAY FAIRWEATHER

THE

Kay is an Osteopath specialising in women’s pelvic health and persistent pelvic pain. She provides education on pain management making contemporary pain science accessible in regional communities.

Her approach addresses the physical, emotional, and social factors influencing persistent pelvic pain.

- Pelvic Health Educator

TEAM

HEIDI MORTIMER - Endometriosis & Pelvic Pain Program Manager

Mel is a Registered Nurse and Midwife with 15+ years of experience, passionate about women’s health, particularly in pregnancy and complex gynaecological care.

Mel’s work is grounded in compassionate care and encouraging individuals to advocate for themselves.

MEL NELSON

Heidi is the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic Manager, she is a Physiotherapist with a Master’s in Pelvic Health. She has expertise in pelvic pain and related conditions, including vaginismus, vulvodynia, endometriosis, and PCOS. She treats a range of pelvic conditions for all genders.

Danielle is an experienced Women’s Health Physiotherapist who treats pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, and pregnancyrelated pelvic issues.

Danielle is passionate about evidencebased, holistic care, that educates and empowers.

DANIELLE MCMAHON

- Women’s Health Nurse

- Women’s Health Physiotherapist Faye is a Dietitian with 15 years of experience, specialising in nutrition, body image, eating disorders, and gut health. She takes a trauma-informed, non-diet approach to support clients in managing their health through inclusive nutrition strategies.

FAYE LEVINE

- Accredited Practising Dietitian COFFS COAST focus 65

focus_contributor.

FITNESS

UPDATE with HARLEY DAVIS

W

STRONG WOMEN, STRONG ROLES

FROM FORMED FOR LIFE

hy Resistance Training Is No Longer Optional

its toll. ince training consistently, she reports better stress tolerance, fewer aches and the ability to finish the week with energy left in reserve.

That deficit affects movement, balance, bone health and metabolism, she e plains. esistance training two to three times per week is essential.

The biggest myth That lifting weights makes women bulky. The reality is that without strength training, women risk becoming weaker, not bigger.

That conversation is changing.

or another client working in the disability field, strength is deeply practical. er role re uires moving e uipment, assisting transfers, maintaining schedules and supporting the wellbeing of others.

cross professions and life stages, women are beginning to view strength differently. ot as a cosmetic goal, but as a performance tool. ot as punishment, but as preparation. ot as vanity, but as longevity.

I felt stronger and more capable of tackling the physical demands of my work, she e plains. y circulation improved, my sleep became more regulated and I felt happier, healthier and more confident.

In speaking with three women from very different professional worlds, one theme stood out clearly. esistance training has become non-negotiable.

avigating menopause, she once believed meaningful change was no longer possible. onsistent resistance training proved otherwise.

psychologist running her own business describes training as essential to how she performs at work.

rom an industry perspective, nutritionist and personal trainer andy, with over years of e perience, confirms what both women are e periencing.

For years, women’s fitness was framed around shrinking. maller dress sizes. maller numbers on the scale. maller versions of themselves.

hen I move my body regularly, I m sharper, calmer and far more resilient, she says. It burns off stress, clears mental clutter and gives me the energy to lead and stay present. er days are mentally demanding and emotionally full. ong hours of listening, decision making and supporting others takes 66 COFFS COAST focus

s women move through peri menopause and menopause, hormonal shifts significantly impact bone density, metabolism, muscle mass and mental health. rom the age of 3 , muscle mass can decline by 3 to percent per decade if it is not maintained.

ver the past decade, women s training has evolved. It is now more individualised, more health focused and more aligned with ageing well. The emphasis has shifted toward resistance training, daily movement and professional guidance that supports long-term wellbeing.

If there is one message woven through these conversations, it is this: trength gives women options. ptions to work without burnout. ptions to age with confidence. ptions to live with energy and independence.

The goal is not simply to live longer.

It is to live stronger.

I m a offs oast personal trainer and founder of ormed for ife. I help everyday women build strength for real life, supporting energy, confidence and healthy ageing through simple, sustainable resistance training.

Years OF LIFELINE NORTH COAST

This year, Lifeline North Coast celebrates 40 years of continuous service to our region, four decades of answering calls, supporting families, training volunteers, and standing beside people during their most vulnerable moments.

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A

s a team, we are incredibly proud of the impact we make every day, but we are even more grateful for the community that has walked with us and made this milestone possible.

Lifeline was founded on a simple but powerful belief: no one should have to face their darkest moments alone. From our Coffs Harbour base, we have been providing crisis support across the North Coast from Nambucca Heads in the south to Yamba in the north and contributing trained Crisis Support Volunteers to the national 13 11 14 line for four decades. Our region carries some of the highest suicide risk indicators in New South Wales, shaped by isolation, socio economic challenges, and an ageing population. This makes timely, skilled crisis response not only important, but lifesaving.

Our Purpose and Services Our core mission is to offer connection, hope, and a safe place to talk. At the heart of this is the 13 11 14 Crisis Support Line, where our trained volunteers listen without judgement, create space for honesty, and help callers find a safe path forward.

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Beyond the phone line, Lifeline North Coast delivers services that strengthen individuals,

Postvention, Walking Beside Families After Suicide

families, and our wider community:

One of the meaningful parts of our work is postvention: the support we provide after amble ware and financial counselling, a suicide. The ripple effects of suicide can supporting people to reduce harm and regain touch families, friends, workplaces and entire stability communities. Our Suicide Bereavement • Suicide prevention and community training, Support Group and including Accidental Outreach services help Our Suicide Counsellor and DVAlert people navigate complex Bereavement workshops grief, reduce isolation, Support Group and rebuild stability and feel • A Suicide Bereavement Outreach services supported emotionally and Support Group, offering help people navigate practically. safe, compassionate postvention support • Community engagement activities, where we connect with people who may be vulnerable or

complex grief, reduce isolation, rebuild stability and feel supported emotionally and practically.

unsure how to seek help

Postvention is not only care after loss, it is a critical form of suicide prevention, strengthening resilience and helping communities heal.

How We Sustain Our Work - Your Local

• GambleAware community outreach, reducing gambling

Lifeline Shops

related harm across the region.

Lifeline North Coast is largely self funded, and our five ifeline shops in rafton, ambucca Heads, Toormina and two in Coffs Harbour are essential to helping keep our crisis support services operating. Every donated item, every

We are also proud to be a training centre for nationally accredited Crisis Supporter Training, equipping the next generation of volunteers who answer calls day and night.

Years OF LIFELINE NORTH COAST

purchase, and every volunteer shift helps sustain the 13 11 14 lines.

Our shops provide more than funding though.

They:

individuals and families • delivering more community events that foster connection and reduce stigma

extraordinary people who choose to stand with us.

• offer affordable goods to local families

• offering an ongoing calendar of suicide prevention and wellbeing workshops

As we enter a new chapter there are many meaningful ways to support Lifeline North Coast:

• reduce waste and support environmental sustainability

• deepening partnerships with local businesses to create measurable community impact

Donate your goods – Your items become essential funding for crisis support.

• create community connection

Our goal is clear: a safer, more connected, more resilient North Coast.

a e a nancial contribution – Every dollar supports suicide prevention, bereavement care and training.

• provide training, work experience and employment pathways give volunteers purpose, confidence and belonging Through these social enterprises, we not only support people in crisis, we help strengthen the broader regional economy.

Looking Ahead - A Strategic Focus As we look to the future, Lifeline North Coast is committed to expanding our impact and strengthening the way we support our community.

Our focus includes: • increasing the number of Crisis Support Volunteers on 13 11 14 • expanding face to face support for

As we celebrate this milestone, we want to express sincere gratitude to everyone who makes our work possible.

To our Crisis Support Volunteers, retail teams, warehouse volunteers, GambleAware staff, event supporters, donors and shoppers, thank you for sharing your compassion, time and energy. To our community partners, schools, service clubs, local media and corporate supporters your collaboration strengthens our reach and ensures people know help is available. To our Board of Directors, who volunteer their governance expertise, time, and ongoing commitment, thank you for your leadership and passion for serving our community. Lifeline North Coast is what it is today because of the collective effort of

Volunteer – Whether in our shops, warehouse, events or on the phones, your time creates real impact.

Host a fundraiser – We’ll support you with marketing materials and provide a detailed impact report so you can see how your generosity helps save lives.

Forty years on, our message remains unchanged: Connection saves lives and every one of us has a part to play.

With gratitude, Angela Martin CEO Lifeline North Coast COFFS COAST focus 69

Join the Lifeline North Coast Volunteer Family - Your Time Can Save a Life For 40 years, Lifeline North Coast has been a pillar of hope, connection, and community care across our region. Today, we’re inviting passionate, communityminded people to join us as volunteers — because every role, every hour, and every person makes a meaningful difference.

We are currently recruiting for a variety of volunteer positions, each playing an important part in supporting local individuals and families:

Retail Shop Volunteers Help sort donations, serve customers, style displays, and create warm, welcoming spaces in our five Lifeline Shops. Every item sold helps fund our local crisis support services. We welcome all ages , gain some skills, make friends.

Crisis Support Telephone Volunteers Looking for a role with purpose? Our Crisis Support Volunteers answer calls on the national 13 11 14 line, offering empathy, connection, and hope to people experiencing emotional distress. Full nationally accredited training is provided, along with ongoing support and supervision.

Retail Curators & Creative Volunteers If you have an eye for presentation, recycling workshops, or visual design, help us curate beautiful retail displays, community spaces, or awareness campaigns that uplift and inspire.

Community Connectors & Fundraising Volunteers Support Lifeline at events, markets, expos, and community activities.

Help us spread awareness, reduce stigma, and build strong local connections. Event volunteers, fundraisers and outreach supporters play a vital role in ensuring people know where to turn for help. This year we have an exciting calendar of community and fundraising events you can be a part of, utilise your skills, make some great connections and friends and be part of something very special.

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Why Volunteer with Lifeline North Coast?

•

Make a real impact in your community

•

Build skills, confidence and connection

•

Gain experience in retail, crisis support, events, engagement and more

•

Be part of a compassionate, supportive team

•

Know that your time is helping save lives

North Coast Support Services

• Contact: Speak to our Intake Coordinator on 02 6651 4093

Lifeline Crisis Support — 13 11 14 24 hours a day • 7 days a week Anyone in Australia can call 13 11 14 at any time to speak with a trained Lifeline Crisis Supporter.

You will be listened to with compassion and without judgement.

Our service is confidential you never have to face your toughest moments alone.

Crisis Support Volunteer Training - Now Open for Registration We are currently taking registrations for our 2026 Crisis Support Telephone Volunteer Training: • March 19, 2026 Training Intake • August 20, 2026 Training Intake

Suicide Bereavement Support Group — Lifeline North Coast A safe, confidential space for adults who have lost a loved one to suicide to connect, share, and receive compassionate support.

• Meets: Second Monday of each month, 6:00–8:00pm • Location: Lifeline North Coast, 2/115 West High St, Coffs Harbour • Cost: Free

Upcoming Information Sessions • Thursday, June 5 — 5:30pm to 7:00pm • Saturday, July 4 — 10:00am to 11:30am

New participants begin with a private 45-minute orientation to ensure they feel supported and prepared.

To learn more or register: 02 6651 4093 GambleAware Mid & Northern NSW Free, confidential counselling and support for anyone affected by gambling.

• Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:00pm

To find out more, contact our team — we’re here to guide you through every step.

Come along, ask questions, and discover how you can make a real impact in our community.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Whether you can spare a few hours a week or a few days a month, your contribution truly matters.

Join us today — because connection saves lives.

To learn more about joining our volunteer team: Call 02 6651 4093 or email reception@lifelinenc.org.au COFFS COAST focus 71

Proudly supporting

At Welcome Hospitality, we’re proud to stand alongside Lifeline North Coast, supporting their vital work in strengthening mental health, connection, and community care across our region, today and for generations to come.

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Air Conditioning Refrigeration Catering

YOUR MID NORTH COAST CLIMATE & COOLING EXPERTS Residential & Commercial Specialists From ducted air conditioning to full commercial kitchen fit-outs We design, install & maintain it all.

• 45 Years Experience • Skilled Local Team • Competitive Pricing

YOUR COMMERCIAL KITCHEN STARTS HERE. At Allied Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, we design, manufacture & customise everything you need: • Bench tops • Exhaust hoods • Shelving • Splashbacks • Dish cleaning facilities Precision-built in our local workshop.

CALL US: 02 6652 5366 VISIT US: 1/24 ISLES DRIVE, NORTH BOAMBEE VALLEY

Allied Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, Celebrating 52 years of service to companies like Lifelife.

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THER APY eive

N

C O F F S

H A R B O U R

estled in the heart of Coffs Harbour, Therapy Collective is a purpose-driven practice founded by psychologists Kate and Courtney. The pair met in 2021 while working at Clarence Correctional Centre, where they completed their internships under the guidance of a supervisor who introduced them to compassionfocused therapies. United by a shared passion for growth, healing and evidence-based care, they envisioned creating a therapeutic space grounded in empathy, fle ibility and genuine connection.

Their e perience in corrections shaped a strong foundation in trauma-informed practice.

Today, they work with both adults and children, supporting trauma survivors and individuals navigating comple emotional challenges. Alongside trauma therapy, the practice provides child-centred interventions for behavioural concerns, emotional regulation difficulties and learning challenges. Kate is recognised for her gentle, compassionate

approach, while Courtney is known for her warmth and trustworthiness, together fostering a safe and nurturing environment.

A vital part of the team is Molly, Practice Manager and Learning Intervention Specialist. She leads children’s educational programs, including intervention groups focused on special education and Individualised Education Program support. Her work ensures children with learning difficulties receive tailored assistance in both clinical and mainstream educational settings. The clinic also offers private tutoring and school readiness programs, strengthening outcomes for young learners.

At Therapy Collective, we believe support should feel personal, comforting, and familiar, like walking into a space where you’re already cared for. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, our approach is gentle, grounding, and centred around real connection. You’renot just a client here. You’re part of our collective.

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DOVIDA

As the Community Engagement Officer for Dovida, Michelle’s role is vital: ensuring that families, hospitals, and seniors from Grafton to Macksville have the resources they need to thrive, but Michelle goes beyond the standard brochure. Through a series of innovative monthly raffles and community pop-ups, she is raising vital funds for local institutions like the Coffs Harbour Health Campus while creating unforgettable memories for her clients.

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H

In this interview, Michelle shares the inspiration behind her latest projects and her vision for a more connected community.

i Michelle, please introduce yourself to our readers and your role within Dovida. I’m the Community Engagement fficer for ovida and I am based in the offs arbour ffice. The area I cover is from rafton through to acksville. y role is to get out in the community and let people know who ovida is and what services ovida can provide for the elderly, their families and also hospitals and doctors surgeries. ell us all about your monthly raffles and what they have been achieving since starting. ach month I put together a basket of goodies for a raffle.

Included in our last raffle was a donation from rendan and elinda from offs arbour Trike and rivate Tours for an hour long ride. This month it s a donation from Tiga at the offs oast ildlife anctuary for admission tickets and a penguin e perience.

I take the basket to all of the pop ups I perform and sell tickets for the raffle. ll the proceeds go towards a local business in the community. or the first month we raised over to go to the offs arbour ink adies out at the ealth ampus.

How did the idea for these monthly raffles rst come to you The idea came about from our eneral anager teven aul. e and I were brainstorming on how we can help the elderly in our community and what events pop ups etc we could hold to get as much information out to them as possible.

Then he came up with the raffle idea and thought it would be a fantastic idea to put the money back into our community.

What made you decide to pair a raffle with your existing pop-ups rather than doing a standalone e ent I think it was nice to have the actual raffle basket there

amongst all of the information from ovida and also for me to let people know where the money was going to in our community.

Why was it important to you to include 'experiences' (like the Trike Bike) as pri es rather than ust physical items or me it was about getting our elderly out into the community and en oying themselves as much as possible. I think it s nice to include things that they would never think to do themselves, going outside the norm. I had one of our ladies feed the penguins the other day and she said it was the best e perience she has ever had and that meant everything to me, ust to see the smile on her face and to hear her say that was priceless.

What are you most looking forward to seeing when you take photos of the winners en oying their pri es or me ust seeing the smiles on their faces is priceless. eeing some of our clients feed the penguins this week was the best feeling, seeing the smiles on their faces was awesome, for me that s what it s all about. lus to be able to sit down and talk to our elderly in the community for me is also an honour and hearing their stories of when they were younger. It also makes their day knowing that someone is taking the time to listen to them.

If this initiative grows the way you hope, what kind of long-term impact do you see it ha ing on the area ur main aim is to get as much information out to the elderly, How do you choose which community their families, hospitals, doctors as possible so organisations, like the Pink Ladies, to the elderly get the care support each and help they need to month or me I live a good life, their think it was who We have morning way. does what in the

teas, information

community. or iving the elderly a days held regularly and face to the ovida e ample the ink the public and businesses name so if they do adies don t ust in the community are have any uestions or have their shops and more than welcome to need help they have volunteers at the come along to get to somewhere to go. hospital they also know myself and our contribute to hospital Can you tell us how other wonderful staff in e uipment. If we other businesses the communities. raise enough money and the local we would also like to community can get contribute towards involved or support machinery e uipment needed for the this initiati e e may ask businesses in hospital. the area to donate a prize in our monthly When you tell people at your pop-ups about where the money is going, what kind of reaction do you get from the community or the first month we had the ink adies and we have a sign up ne t to our raffle. I always let people who purchase tickets know where the money is going to and everyone was really impressed that we were doing this and putting the money back into the community.

raffles which in turn gives them publicity for their businesses. e have morning teas, information days held regularly and the public and businesses in the community are more than welcome to come along to get to know myself and our other wonderful staff in the communities. y main goal is to get our elderly out into the community, still having a good time and mi ing with others.

Thanks Michelle.

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Live-in Care with Dovida

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he care option most families don’t know exists

When a parent’s needs begin to change, or when a health event shifts the family conversation from “we’re managing” to “what do we do next?”, the question of care can feel overwhelming.

For many families, the assumption is that the choice comes down to managing at home with some help a few days a week - or moving into residential care.

It’s a crossroads many Australians face, and for some, it’s more stressful than it needs to be.

What often goes undiscovered in that moment is a third option: live-in care. It’s a model that’s been quietly transforming the way older Australians experience life at home - and it’s worth understanding before any decisions are made.

What live-in care actually means Live-in care is a professional home care arrangement in which a dedicated, fully trained caregiver moves into the home and provides personalised support throughout the day. They’re on call overnight for reassurance and safety, but this isn’t a 24-hours-a-day active care arrangement - it’s

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structured support built around an individual’s daily routine, preferences and needs.

Thirty hours of active care are provided each week across six days, typically a mix of longer and shorter days arranged to suit the person’s routine. Support can include personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, companionship and help getting to appointments.

Importantly, it’s one consistent person sharing the home. That continuity matters enormously, particularly for older people who value familiarity, or those living with conditions such as dementia or Parkinson’s.

How it compares to the alternatives Residential aged care has its place, and for some people it’s the right choice. But it’s worth knowing that the average resident in an aged care facility receives around 2.5 hours of direct care per day.

With live-in care, that figure rises to between 4.5 and 6 hours - delivered by the same familiar face, in the comfort of home, without a costly Refundable Accommodation Deposit.

For those who would prefer to remain surrounded by their belongings, their routines, their garden and their community, live-in care offers something a nursing home simply cannot replicate.

Is it the right fit?

Live-in care works well across a wider range of situations than many people realise.

It’s a natural fit for someone managing mobility challenges, a chronic condition, or the early to mid stages of dementia. It suits people returning home after a hospital stay, where a consistent, attentive presence can make recovery safer and less isolating.

It’s also a meaningful option for older couples where one partner needs more support than the other can comfortably provide alone - a live-in caregiver steps in to share that load, allowing both people to enjoy a better quality of life together. And for those who have recently lost a partner and are adjusting to living alone, it can provide both practical help and genuine companionship.

To make live-in care work, the home needs a spare private bedroom for the caregiver. Beyond that, the arrangement is designed to be flexible and collaborative, adapting as needs evolve over time.

more than 60 locations nationally, Dovida brings together experienced caregivers, personalised care planning and a genuine commitment to each person’s wellbeing. Every client is matched with a dedicated Care Manager who works alongside them to ensure care remains person-centred, responsive and right for their circumstances.

A free, no-obligation consultation is the natural starting point - a conversation to understand what matters most, and to explore whether live-in care might be the right fit. There’s no pressure and no commitment, just the information needed to make a considered decision.

To find out more or speak with a local Dovida team member, call 1300 008 018 or visit dovida.com.au

Starting the conversation Dovida is one of Australia’s leading home care providers, supporting more than 12,000 older Australians to age well at home. With local offices across New South Wales and a network spanning

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focus_contributor.

SAMANTHA McGOWAN

Women inBusiness

with CATH FOWLER BUSINESS WOMEN NETWORK COMMITEE

C O F F S H A R B O U R W E D D I N G E X P O & L A L U Z C O N T E N T C R E AT I N G ( M N C W E D D I N G S )

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an you tell us about your business? MNC Weddings and LaLuz Content Creating work together to support the Mid North Coast wedding industry, each playing a distinct role in the wedding journey.

LaLuz Content Creating specialises in wedding, event and business content creation, working closely with couples and local vendors to capture real moments and create modern, social ready content. Through this work, LaLuz hosted the Mid North Coast Wedding Expo, bringing vendors and couples together in a community focused environment.

Following the success of the expo, the opportunity arose to take over MNC Weddings and expand this vision further. MNC Weddings now operates as a dedicated regional wedding platform and is launching a new website with a feature not offered by any other wedding directory, creating new opportunities for Mid North Coast vendors.

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Together, both brands promote local talent, strengthen vendor visibility and help couples plan their weddings with confidence on the Mid North Coast.

love it. The Coffs Coast is absolutely stunning.

What’s your favourite part of the work you do? My favourite part of what I do is bringing people together and building something meaningful for the local wedding community. I love creating opportunities for vendors to be seen, supported and valued, while helping couples feel confident and excited about planning their wedding on the Mid North Coast.

collaborating with incredible people and

Who is your greatest influence in business? y greatest influences in business are my husband, for his constant support, work ethic and belief in what I’m building, and Brittney Saunders of Fayt The Label, whose approach to branding, community and authentic growth has been incredibly inspiring.

What do you love about living and working on the Coffs Coast? Who wouldn’t

I love the lifestyle, the natural beauty and the strong sense of community. Working here means supporting local businesses, building something meaningful in a place that genuinely feels like home.

What piece of ad ice would you gi e women making their way in the business world? Honestly, who would listen to me?

I’d say back yourself and see it through even when it’s tough. Take your time, do it your way and be proud of everything you achieve.

And always have friends you can call who will listen to your next crazy plan. ow can people learn more about your business? People can learn more by visiting mncweddings.com.au and following @ mncweddings and @laluz_content_creating on Instagram for updates, events and behind the scenes across the Mid North Coast wedding community.

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WOMEN in BUSINESS O A K G R E E N A W A Y, L I S A F L I C K , M E L A N I E G R E E N A W A Y, C H A N T E L L E B E S Z A N T, S A R A H W E E R M A N , J A N I E B O U R N E

EXCEL PROPERTY AGENCY

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E

xcel Property Agency has built a strong female-led team.

How would you describe the culture within your of ce and why is that important to your success?

At Excel Property Agency, our culture is built on respect, collaboration, and genuine care. We’ve intentionally created an environment where we all feel supported, heard, and empowered to contribute our strengths.

There s a real sense of unity in our office.

We celebrate each other’s wins, support one another through challenges, and operate with transparency and trust. That positive internal culture naturally flows through to our clients.

When a team works cohesively and with integrity, it creates a calm, confident e perience for everyone we work with.

I truly believe culture is the foundation of success. When people feel valued and supported, they perform at their best - and our clients benefit from that every day.

What unique strengths does each member of your team bring to the business and how do those strengths complement one another? One of the things I’m most proud of is the diversity of strengths within our team.

Each team member brings something unique - whether it’s exceptional organisation, strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, client care, marketing creativity, or operational efficiency.

We don’t try to make everyone the same.

Instead, we recognise and nurture individual strengths. Some team members thrive in structured systems and compliance, others excel in relationship-building and communication, and others shine in strategy and problem-solving.

We rely on clear systems, regular check-ins and ongoing learning. Just as importantly, we prioritise balance. Real estate can be high pressure, so supporting wellbeing is essential.

Empowerment comes from trust. I trust my team to take initiative and make decisions, and that trust builds confidence and performance. ow does being a collaborati e team dri en agency bene t your clients compared to a more traditional real estate model? In a traditional model, one agent handles everything. t cel, our clients benefit from the collective knowledge of the entire team. There is always someone available to assist, provide insight or step in when needed. Collaboration strengthens strategy, marketing and negotiation, and it gives our clients peace of mind knowing they are supported by a united, experienced team.

What does leadership look like within your team and how do you create opportunities for growth con dence and de elopment among the women at Excel? For me, leadership isn’t about hierarchy - it’s about example. It’s about integrity, accountability, and showing up consistently for both clients and team members.

I focus on creating opportunities for professional development. Whether it’s expanding responsibilities, refining skills, or stepping into more visible roles within the business, I want each member in our team to feel capable and confident. onfidence grows when you are trusted, supported, and given room to shine. Seeing the growth in our team - both professionally and personally - is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

Melanie

Together, those strengths interlock beautifully.

It means our clients receive a well-rounded, seamless service - because behind every transaction is a team contributing their expertise. n a fast paced property mar et how do you support and empower each other to perform at your best? Open communication is key. There s no ego in our office - if someone needs advice or support, it’s always there.

rlando treet Coffs

arbour

02 6652 4646 excelpa.com.au COFFS COAST focus 83

SAM DAWSON MARRIED BY SAM 84 COFFS COAST focus

WOMEN in BUSINESS

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Samantha Dawson is reshaping the wedding industry in Coffs Harbour, one ceremony at a time. As the founder and celebrant behind Married By Sam, she brings more than 16 years of experience to her work, along with a reputation for ceremonies that are heartfelt, inclusive and genuinely fun.

nown for her calm presence, thoughtful storytelling and natural ability to read a room, Samantha creates ceremonies that reflect e actly what her couples

w ant. want.

Based on the NSW Mid North Coast, amantha has grown arried y am into a trusted and respected brand while remaining deeply connected to her local community. Her approach proves that meaningful business success doesn’t rely on rigid tradition or cookie-cutter formats, but on listening, connection and care.

What inspired you to create Married

By Sam? It started with wanting ceremonies to feel like the couple not a template. I’d been in the industry for a long time and saw how often people felt they had to fit into a certain style. I wanted to offer something more fle ible, more personal, and honestly, more fun.

You’re known for ceremonies that feel relaxed and joyful. How intentional is that? Very intentional. A ceremony should feel good to be part of, not something you endure to get to the party. Whether that means laughter, lightness or a more informal tone, it’s always guided by what the couple wants. y ob is to reflect them, not impose a style.

How does your experience shape the way you work today? i teen years gives you perspective. You learn how to read energy, manage nerves and adapt in the moment. perience allows me

to hold space calmly while still keeping things flowing naturally. It also means I can reassure couples and help them trust the process.

By being honest and approachable. I try to share real e periences, not ust highlight reels. If someone can avoid a few of the mistakes I made early on, that’s a win.

What have you learned from building What does success look like for you a business in a regional community now? Alignment. Loving the work, like Coffs Harbour? That relationships protecting my energy, and knowing the are everything. In a regional area, people business still reflects my values. rowth is remember how great, but integrity you make them matters more. feel. Supporting What’s next Sixteen years other local for you and gives you businesses, Married By Sam? perspective. You collaborating, and Continuing to learn how to read being genuinely evolve without energy, manage invested in the losing what makes nerves and adapt community goes a it special. Staying in the moment. long way and it’s fun, staying Experience allows something I really grounded, and me to hold space value. continuing to create

calmly while still

Community ceremonies that feel keeping things involvement authentic, joyful flowing naturally. seems central to and completely It also means I can your work. Why about the couple. reassure couples is that important How can people and help them to you? Because nd out more trust the process.

I wouldn’t be I can be found here without on Facebook , community Instagram and my support. Giving back,whether through website marriedbysam.com.au or call mentoring other celebrants, advocating 0417 861 045 and Im happy to meet for inclusivity like with our group PFLAG obligation free!

(Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) or simply being generous with time and knowledge feels like part of the responsibility of running a people-focused business.

How do you support emerging creatives or small business owners?

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SPECIAL OCCASIONS: TURNING DREAMS I N TO U N FO R GE T TA B L E M O M E N TS O N T H E COFFS COAST

ALESHIA PERRIE 86 COFFS COAST focus

WOMEN in BUSINESS

Love, laughter and unforgettable memories, that’s what Aleshia, owner of Special Occasions, is all about. Continuing a legacy spanning more than 30 years on the Coffs Coast, she has infused every event with experience, creativity and a personal touch. Most recently, she styled Coffs Coast Focus’ 15-year celebration at Aanuka Beach Resort, ensuring every element came together seamlessly.

W

hat sets customs that make each unique. Sometimes Special my role goes beyond styling, supporting Occasions couples with family overseas or honouring apart? Our loved ones no longer present. Acknowledging longevity those emotions creates a day that feels and genuine respectful, inclusive and heartfelt. connection What advice would you give couples just give us strong starting to plan? foundations. Over three decades, we’ve Lock in your date. I’ve already secured styled everything from intimate weddings to bookings for 2028, although I don’t know 800-guest celebrations, corporate events, what we’re doing for them yet lol. Next, stay mayoral balls, awards true to your vision. It’s nights and Santa easy to be influenced by displays. Many friends, family or Pinterest, From corporate clients but what matters most is intimate return year after year, creating a day that reflects weddings to grand and referrals from you as a couple. Lastly, in celebrations, happy couples keep Coffs Harbour, have a wetAleshia Perrie our calendar full. That weather plan. Flexibility brings creativity, trust and loyalty mean is essential. We recently warmth and everything to us. had four weddings over genuine care to How do you balance Valentine’s weekend, all every event. trends with a client’s with wet-weather setups, vision? Trends are only two had plans. great for inspiration, How do you manage but the focus is always events of different the client. Some arrive with detailed mood sizes? Whether it’s a micro wedding with boards; others describe how they want the eight guests or a celebration with hundreds, day to feel. y role is to listen first, guide preparation and communication are key. Every when needed, and ensure the result reflects event deserves the same care and attention them, not just what’s popular. to detail. Clear timelines, trusted supplier Can you walk us through your relationships and strong teamwork ensure consultation process? Connection is everything runs smoothly. For corporate everything. We spend time getting to know events, collaboration with venue staff is vital. clients, their families and what matters most What do you love most about your to them. With my Maori heritage, identity and work? Being able to witness love, connection tradition are deeply important, shaping every and heartfelt moments. I’ve made so celebration. Over the past year, we’ve styled many connections over the years, shared Aboriginal, Indian, Burmese, Nepalese, Iraqi, experiences, memories and even made a few Eritrean and African celebrations, learning the lifelong friends. But the moments are by far

my favourite: a quiet glance down the aisle, a parent’s proud smile, an embrace during a speech. Styling creates the setting, but those human moments linger long after the day ends. Being trusted to create the environment where those memories unfold is a privilege never taken for granted.

What excites you about the future of Special Occasions? I’m excited about opportunities with new venues and clients, collaborations, fresh products and more unforgettable celebrations. With Coffs Harbour continuing to grow as a destination, it’s an exciting time, with more interstate couples choosing it each year. I’m hopeful the bypass and future infrastructure improvements will kick-start more developments in town and support local businesses.

What excites me the most though, is the unknown; every enquiry brings a new story and the chance to bring someone’s dream to life!

How can people get in touch?

Aleshia & Special Occasions Team 0419 481 570 info@specialoccasions.net.au We offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation by phone or in person. Reach out via our socials, WhatsApp or website, share a few details, and we’ll be in touch to help bring your vision to life.

Any nal words Yes ,get a ticket for Stars of Coffs on Friday, March 27, and come out to support Australia and New Zealand this October for the Oztag World Cup.

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C O F F S

C O A S T

BUSINESS WOMEN’S NETWORK

L-R: Lace Browning, Annie Levitt, Kerstin Thode, Courtney Nolan, Cath Stojcevska, Sam Dawson

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WOMEN in BUSINESS

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WN Coffs Coast is where local women in business, leadership and the professional world come to find their people.

Not surface-level networking but real connection, honest conversations about the good, the bad and the ugly - inside a community that feels more like friendship than stiff, sterile networking.

Awkward small talk is out, in 2026 we’re redesigning what networking looks like: socially easy, genuinely inclusive, and actually useful, think a black book of women you trust, plus the kind of industry partnerships that make business feel lighter and more fun .

Our February event was a first-of-its-kind for . e turned a studio into a mini playground for the modern business woman: content creation, coffee, local photographers, local suppliers, and a room full of women backing each other in real life. The energy was magnetic.

also runs Re-Charge Divorce Coaching and etreats. he is now also an international best selling co-author of the book “Emotional lchemy .

Annie Levitt (Treasurer) Annie Levitt is our Treasurer and elationship ecutive at ommonwealth ank. he is part of a team dedicated to supporting commercial clients through building relationships, understanding the wants and needs of businesses and creating a bespoke offering that will support them to reach their goals.

Ruth Siwinski (Secretary) Ruth owns Good inance olutions and is a real estate geek who believes in the Australian Awkward dream of home small talk is ownership - whatever out, in 2026 we’re that looks like for redesigning what you. hether you re networking looks buying your first home, like: socially easy, upgrading, investing, genuinely inclusive, or refinancing, she ll and actually useful, help you confidently think a black book navigate the process.

of women you trust, plus the kind of industry partnerships that make business feel lighter (and more fun).

If you’re growing a business, leading a team, or building your next chapter, BWN is your room. ome for the connection, leave with your people.

COURTNEY NOLAN (President): Courtney Nolan is President of BWN Coffs Coast and proof you can pivot without losing your credibility. ith a background in policing and high-performance coaching; intimacy and business, she’s built a reputation for making big conversations feel far less daunting.

Kerstin Thode (Vice-President) Kerstin Thode is the principal solicitor of mart hoice aw, a local law firm that is best known to help their clients achieve amicable separations and divorces, in a caring atmosphere. erstin

Cath Stojcevska Cath is proof that accountants can be fun seriously . artner at HQB Accountants in Coffs Harbour, she’s been wrangling numbers and saving businesses from financial meltdowns since before spreadsheets were cool (okay, they were never cool, but still .

Sarrena Hall arrenna brings a wealth of media experience, creativity, enthusiasm to when she s not supporting Triple and it . clients to help build their business using broadcast and digital platforms.

Samantha Dawson ocus agazine s own dvertising pecialist, am awson is also a arriage elebrant, arried by am and . he has had the privilege to be a part of over weddings to date.

Lace Browning Lace is the Inclusive mployment ustralia Team eader at ocial Futures providing exceptional leadership to a passionate and results driven team. he is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with disability by providing support to those who are looking for work to achieve their goals and to find long term employment opportunities. he has been a long-term attendee and committee member of BWN for many years.

Cath Fowler Cath is a City of Coffs Harbour Councillor and is an experienced digital and social media marketer. aving run her own business for a number of years, she has recently taken on an in-house role at a local marketing agency, where she coordinates the weekly social media content for a number of clients in the hospitality industry.

Julia Blair ulia lair is an perations onsultant and trategic artner helping women-led service businesses build backend systems and tech that support sustainable growth. he bridges big-picture vision with practical implementation, turning complexity into clarity. nown for her calm, strategic leadership and community-minded approach, ulia helps solopreneurs grow with confidence and connection.

Rhonda Locke Rhonda is an experienced strategist with a strong background in sales and marketing having worked in the NFP, public and private sectors, working extensively in reestablishing businesses and new ventures. he is a well-regarded conference speaker and consultant to industry on strategies to increase company and personal brand equity, establish and reposition brands, package and launch products, grow digital and social media influence all with the intent of ma imising product and service revenue.

Where can we nd out more about W bwn.org.au coffscoastbwn coffscoastbwn COFFS COAST focus 89

ANNALIE GRACE HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY

ANNALIE GRACE 90 COFFS COAST focus

WOMEN in BUSINESS

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ow did your journey into hair and make-up begin, and when did you realise it could become a business? My journey into hair and make-up began very young, around seven or eight. I was already super fascinated by the creativity of the industry. hat started as a small fascination and passion grew into purpose as I realised how powerful hair and makeup can be, especially in weddings. Seeing brides feel confident, calm and radiant on such an important day showed me this passion could become a meaningful and sustainable business.

Was there a de ning moment where you felt con dent calling yourself a business owner? Yes and no. There wasn’t one single moment, but rather a leap of faith. I knew I had to back myself, even without knowing exactly how it would unfold but I was confident in my passion and my skills. The real defining moment came when my books were filling up months beyond the one I was currently in! Seeing ongoing referrals and support from my clientele and also within the industry, made me realise this was working, and I was truly a business owner.

What is your unique point of difference? y uni ue point of difference is definitely both my space and the experience provided within it. My studio is located on an 83-acre hobby farm near Fernmount, offering clients a calm, private setting away from the traditional salon environment. I grew up on this farm and think my space perfectly encapsulates my mixed life of beauty and farming roots.

I wanted to create a safe, personal space that feels grounding rather than rushed.

Clients can truly unwind, whether it’s after a long work day or just needing a moment to themselves, while still receiving high-end hair, makeup, and colour services they genuinely love.

The hair and beauty industry is fast-paced and competitive.

How do you stay true to yourself while forward, I see my greatest growth in the continuing to grow? I believe real growth wedding industry. I’m especially excited for comes from embracing fellow industry the 2026 wedding season and the beautiful professionals rather than viewing the space brides I’ll be working with. Being part of as purely competitive. Supporting others such meaningful moments is deeply fulfilling, to pursue the craft they love helps me stay and I look forward to continuing to expand aligned with my my bridal work and own values and growing within the shifting my mindset wedding space in the from competition to years to come.

Make sure community has given How can people you’ve me the most incredible nd and boo you created the right opportunities. lients can find me I still back myself, back my work and the quality of service I provide. I also know that none of that will change if I also support others to do the same, and most of the time, being supportive for others opens up doors for yourself to improve and grow your own skills

foundations, your skills, your space, and your numbers so you understand how the business will work. After that, there’s nothing left but to back yourself.

Sometimes you do have to take a leap of faith, because growth doesn’t come from staying still!

What advice would you give to other women considering starting their own business in the beauty industry? My biggest advice is to invest in your education and truly master the fundamentals of your craft. nowledge builds confidence. ake sure you’ve created the right foundations, your skills, your space, and your numbers so you understand how the business will work.

After that, there’s nothing left but to back yourself. Sometimes you do have to take a leap of faith, because growth doesn’t come from staying still

through my website, social media platforms, and word-of-mouth referrals.

To book my services, they can jump online via the booking link through my website and choose services, dates and times that suit them with what’s available, or alternatively they can send an email or contact me directly via social media or phone! After receiving the in uiry, I confirm availability, discuss details, and send over confirmation annaliegrace_hmua annalie-grace-hmua-artistry.squarespace.com annaliegrace.hmua@gmail.com 0434 688 134

Looking ahead, what are you most excited about with your business? hen it comes to my loyal clientele and consistent week-to-week colour and styling appointments, I’m incredibly grateful and fulfilled with where that s at. or me going COFFS COAST focus 91

WOMEN in BUSINESS

KRISTEENA KAHLER FINANCE SPECIALIST COFFS COAST MOBILE LENDING

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ou’ve recently taken over Coffs Coast Mobile Lending, what drew you to the business and what excites you most about the next chapter? I joined Coffs Coast Mobile Lending in an administrative role, but I quickly realised how much I en oyed finance and the opportunity it gives me to help people navigate very different personal situations. very client s circumstances are uni ue, and I became committed to helping people make confident, informed decisions. tepping into ownership feels like a natural progression. hat e cites me most is shaping the business around my values, local focus, transparency, and education. ome people see finance as ust a car, a bike, or a caravan, but I see families making memories, parents upgrading the vehicle that carries their most precious passengers, or a local business owner e panding their business. I m passionate about building long-term relationships and being the person clients return to as their needs evolve.

Finance can feel intimidating. How do you help your clients feel con dent and in control from day one I help clients feel confident by guiding them through the process from start to finish in plain language, including what to be mindful of once finance is in place, repayments, fees, and future options.

I also support clients whose credit has been impacted by difficult life circumstances. In those situations, education is ust as important as the application itself. I e plain how credit works, what can be improved, and how to move forward so people feel informed, supported, and in control.

What advice would you give women stepping into leadership or ta ing o er a business for the rst time Sometimes the bravest move is believing you belong in the room. hen you feel nervous or unsure, that often means you re stepping into something that matters, so do it anyway.

0466 224 664 admin@coffscoastmobilelending.com.au

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WOMEN in BUSINESS

SARAH McLAUCHLAN M cLAUCHLAN LAUCHLAN

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SARAH McLAUCHLAN GARDENS

hat inspired you Everyone deserves a sense of luxury. to start Sarah Thoughtful design can elevate a space, McLauchlan regardless of scale or budget.

Gardens, and how How do you create outdoor spaces that has the business are both beautiful and practical? Every grown? Design and project begins with listening. Understanding the outdoors have been lifelong passions, so how clients want to use their garden, starting a garden design practice felt like a how they want to feel within it, and how natural way to bring those interests together. it connects to the home is essential. I see After training at the London College of the garden as an extension of the house, Garden Design in Melbourne, I founded with layout, planting and materials working Sarah McLauchlan Gardens together to support to create outdoor spaces everyday life. that feel considered, Everyone What does success functional and quietly deserves a look like beyond the special, gardens that sense of luxury. nished garden elevate everyday Thoughtful design Success is seeing clients living. can elevate a space, genuinely use and enjoy The studio regardless of scale their garden. When a began with or budget. space becomes part smaller of daily life, evolving residential naturally while still feeling projects and has since evolved resolved, the design has truly succeeded. to include more complex What advice would you give to women sites, often with steep starting their own business? terrain, restricted access and Start before you feel completely ready. layered technical challenges.

Trust your perspective, back your skills While the scale of projects and stay genuinely invested. Consistency, has grown, my approach professionalism and curiosity will take you a has remained the same. long way.

I personally design every garden and stay closely involved throughout the process, ensuring each space responds thoughtfully to the site and reflects the client s lifestyle with clarity and care.

Relocating to the Mid North Coast in 2023 marked an exciting new chapter, and the region s strong sense of place, shaped by climate, plant palette and coastal materials, continues to influence my work.

smgardens.au sarah@smgardens.au 0435 566 793 @sarahmcgardens Sarah McLauchlan Gardens COFFS COAST focus 93

WOMEN in BUSINESS

LILLIE-ANN COWLING

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COWLING’S R&R CARPET

hat motivated you to join Cowling’s R&R Carpet and step into the family business? I’ve always wanted to own my own business, so being part of an independent family company was a huge motivator. Cowling’s was always Dad’s passion, and now it’s mine too, continuing his legacy means everything to me.

Dad was an incredible role model. He was successful in business and investing, but he passed away suddenly when I was young, however his influence remains strong. atching um take over the business, grow it successfully, and raise four children at the same time was truly inspiring. If she could do it, I can do it.

I also love being part of the Coffs Harbour business community, helping locals turn their homes and workspaces into beautiful sanctuaries while supporting the local economy.

How are you bringing your own style to an established brand? Styling spaces has always been my passion, even as a child I was rearranging rooms and experimenting with colours. Now I help clients select te tures, tones and flooring that make their house feel like home.

I’ve also strengthened our social media presence and refreshed our showroom with modern, in-demand product ranges. Clearing aged stock and aligning with current trends has helped ensure that, even after more than 50 years in business, we remain competitive, contemporary and strong within the local market.

What advice would you give other young women thinking about joining a family business? Don’t wait to feel perfect before you begin, just start. I joined unsure of my role, and over time we shaped a position that suits me in marketing and business support. e willing to listen, learn and ask uestions. ay yes to opportunities. ork hard. omentum builds over time, confidence grows, and enjoyment follows.

Above all, never give up.

6652 1415 lil@rrcarpet.com.au

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WOMEN in BUSINESS

NATALIE SCOTT DOBBS & CO. DIRECTOR OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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eal estate is a fastpaced and often male-dominated industry. What has your journey been like as a woman in business, and how have those experiences shaped the way you lead today? From a Property Manager’s perspective, real estate is one of the most demanding sectors in the industry. It’s high-volume, compliance-driven, emotionally charged and built entirely on relationships. Being a woman in this space has meant developing resilience quickly.

transparency and genuine relationships, not just transactions.

Long-term success in property management comes down to trust.

We prioritise clear communication, compliance and realistic advice from the outset to protect both the asset and the client’s goals.

Early on, I learnt that property management requires a strong voice.

You’re regularly negotiating between landlords and tenants, enforcing legislation, managing conflict and protecting valuable assets. Emotional intelligence has been one of my greatest strengths. This role isn’t just about property, it’s about people, expectations and high-pressure situations. I lead with empathy, but I am also firm on boundaries and compliance. That balance shapes how I operate and how I lead my team.

What advice would you give to women wanting to step into leadership in property? Back yourself, even before you feel completely ready. onfidence is built through action and experience.

Dobbs & Co has built a strong reputation locally. What sets your approach apart? Our reputation has been built on consistency,

We are relationship-driven and community-focused. In a local market, reputation matters. Being present, accountable and genuinely invested in our community builds lasting loyalty. Sustainable success isn’t about short-term wins; it’s about maintaining trusted partnerships over time.

Know your legislation, understand your market and prepare thoroughly.

When you speak with clarity and conviction, people listen. Don’t wait for permission to lead. Take ownership, look for solutions and raise your standards consistently.

Leadership isn’t a title. It’s how you show up every day.

02 5642 4500 I 0421 377 347 natalie@dobbsandco.com.au

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WOMEN in BUSINESS

KRYSTAL BROWN

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H Y P N OT I ST K RYSTA L B R OW N

ou work with What changes when someone successful works with you? The biggest shift professionals who is they stop operating from pressure. struggle with stress They don’t lose their edge, they lose the and anxiety. What strain. Decisions feel cleaner. They’re do you actually calmer in conversations that used to see behind the scenes? Honestly, trigger them. They’re still ambitious, I don’t see people who are falling but it’s not coming from fear anymore. apart - I see people who are holding it I always say: you don’t need to push together really harder. You need well. They’re your system to respected. feel safe enough Their mind They’re capable. to lead properly. is always They’re the Most high-level running. Even when steady ones in people don’t need they’re at the beach, the room. But motivation. They at dinner, or lying in when they sit need regulation. bed, it’s still going. down with me, And once that they’ll say, “I clicks, everything just can’t switch changes. off.” Their mind is always running. Even What are people saying? “After when they’re at the beach, at dinner, trying many approaches, working with or lying in bed, it’s still going. It’s not Krystal was the breakthrough. My dramatic anxiety. It’s constant pressure. anxiety has shifted, I feel Why does that happen to people who are already doing well? Because they’ve trained themselves to operate that way. For years. When you carry responsibility, you become good at anticipating problems. You stay alert.

You push through. The nervous system adapts and thinks, “This is normal.”

The problem is, it never resets. So even when there’s no real threat, the body stays slightly on edge. Over time, that feels like tension, shallow sleep, irritability, or just a heaviness you can’t quite explain.

0421 454 947

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aligned and in control, and my public speaking is now calm and confident. - ngela Martin - Lifeline

hypnotistkrystalbrown@outlook.com

WOMEN in BUSINESS

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BLYDE NESER PROFESSIONAL COACHING SOLUTIONS

hat led you to start Professional Coaching Solutions, and what drives your work today?

After decades in senior leadership and HR Consulting, I e perienced first-hand how poor leadership, siloed systems and unmanaged psychosocial risks damage good people. I also saw what is possible when trust, clarity and purpose are aligned. I founded Professional Coaching olutions to move beyond surface fi es and address the real human and systemic issues holding teams back. y work sits at the intersection of human behaviour, leadership and organisational systems. We help leaders manage change with care, build trust and design processes that support positive culture without burnout.

When teams thrive, they create stronger outcomes for communities they serve. That is what drives me.

How do you help teams build psychological safety?

Psychological safety does not happen by accident. It requires intentional leadership, self-awareness and practical tools. e use evidence-based diagnostics, neurobiology and proven frameworks to help teams understand their communication styles, strengths and blind spots. elf-leadership is the foundation of everything. hen leaders build self-awareness,

confidence and emotional regulation, trust grows. rom there, we work at team and system level to strengthen collaboration and embed sustainable practices that support both wellbeing, and performance.

What’s one lesson running your business has taught you about leadership or growth?

I launched my business just before bushfires, floods and a global pandemic. The biggest lesson was this ou are never alone in this. rowth requires courage. Operating from fear shrinks potential, but leading with purpose attracts the right people, support and opportunities, organically.

What advice would you give to women in business?

You’re not alone. Do not see others as competition.

Build your tribe.

Seek mentors, access the many free NSW business resources available, and surround yourself with people who want you to succeed.

ook a complimentary consultation with lyde professionalcoachingsolutions.com.au or via e-mail blyde@neser.com.au COFFS COAST focus 97

WOMEN in BUSINESS

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LISA FLYNN

SHINE LAWYERS - CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER

n a world that often measures success by scale and speed, how do you personally de ne a “successful day” in your role

A successful day isn’t about how many things I’ve ticked off a list, it’s about whether the decisions I’ve made have helped move something forward in a way that’s fair, thoughtful and human.

That might mean supporting a team member through a difficult issue, helping ensure a client feels heard, or contributing to work that strengthens access to justice.

If I finish the day knowing I ve acted with care and integrity, and that I have made a positive difference - that’s success to me.

What is one “unspoken rule” in your industry that you’ve enjoyed breaking, and how did that shift create more space for your creativity?

There’s an idea in law that strength comes from detachment, that professionalism means distance. I’ve never fully accepted that. I believe empathy and compassion are strengths, not weaknesses, particularly in plaintiff law. Allowing space for humanity, for listening deeply and acknowledging the impact of harm, has made my work more meaningful and, I think, more effective. It creates room for better judgment, better leadership and better outcomes.

When you aren’t running the show,

Shop 3, 152a West High Street, Coffs Harbour coffsharbour@shine.com.au 1800 986 904 98 COFFS COAST focus

what is the hobby or ritual that helps you recharge Shine Lawyers has almost 1,000 staff and offices around the country, practicing in areas across class actions, personal injury, dust disease, superannuation and disability insurance, and medical negligence. It’s not a job to ‘switch off’ from because of the depth and breadth of the work we do and who it reaches.

Thankfully, my three wonderful children, Tully, Denver and Addison, keep me very entertained outside of work. We have a lot of fun together, and their love of sport means most weekends involve cheering from the sidelines or ferrying them around. I also love the ocean, which is one of the reasons our family lives on the beautiful Coffs Coast. The ocean has a way of restoring perspective, it soothes the soul and reminds me to breathe.

What is a common misconception people have about your industry or your role?

A common misconception is that legal work is purely technical or transactional.

In plaintiff law, it’s deeply human. People come to us at the most vulnerable moments of their lives. The law matters, of course, but so does compassion, patience and respect. Our role carries enormous responsibility, and it’s a privilege to walk alongside people as they seek accountability and healing.

WOMEN in BUSINESS

HOLLY NORTON

H O L L Y B R O W

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Brows have the power to completely transform a face, yet they’re often the most overlooked part of a beauty routine. In Coffs Harbour, Holly Norton of Holly Brows has become the go-to specialist for clients seeking precision, personalisation and naturally beautiful results.

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nown for her meticulous attention to detail and tailored approach, Holly is redefining brow artistry and helping clients feel confident, polished and effortlessly put together every day.

Recently, Holly was selected as a National ermanent akeup udge for the Australian Online Beauty Competition, a role that recognises her as an industry e pert entrusted with evaluating and scoring artists at a professional level. e sat down with olly to learn more.

What does it mean to be appointed a National PMU Judge? It’s an incredible honour. s a udge, my role is to evaluate artists work based on technique, symmetry, colour choice, healed results and overall professionalism. It s about upholding high industry standards and recognising true e cellence in cosmetic tattooing.

Why do you think you were chosen?

I ve been in the beauty industry for over years, with more than a decade specialising in cosmetic tattooing. I believe my e perience, attention to detail and commitment to natural-looking results aligned with the competition s values and vision.

same, so brows should never be onesize-fits-all. I focus on creating shapes and tones that enhance each client’s natural features while ensuring longlasting, balanced results.

How does your experience as a business owner influence your judging? As the founder of my own brow makeup line, I understand both the artist s perspective and the client s e pectations. That balance is important when assessing work fairly and constructively.

What did you hope to bring to the competition? I m passionate about recognising artists who demonstrate integrity, professionalism and artistry. upporting and guiding the ne t generation of beauty professionals is something I care deeply about.

Through her artistry and leadership, olly orton continues to raise the bar locally and nationally. hollybrows.com.au

What sets your approach apart? ersonalisation. o two faces are the COFFS COAST focus 99

WOMEN in BUSINESS K

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BARBARA HAIGH C

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Barbara Haigh, owner of SILK Laser Clinics Coffs Harbour, has more than 30 years experience in the beauty and aesthetics industry. She leads a team of nine therapists and two registered nurses, focused on helping clients feel “Smooth & Confident” in their skin.

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hat inspired you to start your journey in the beauty and aesthetic industry, and how did that evolve into owning the Coffs Harbour clinic? I’ve always loved working with people and building self-confidence. eeing the results of tailored skin and hairremoval plans still gives me a buzz.

From humble beginnings as a beauty therapist, I’ve grown the business to support more than 10,000 clients across the offs oast.

Over your 30+ years in the industry, what major changes have you seen in how people approach skincare and con dence Technology has transformed everything. a ing and razors have largely been replaced by medical-grade lasers, and skincare has shifted to advanced cosmeceuticals that actively change skin biology. The industry is now far more evidence-based, giving us better tools to achieve real results.

How would you describe your leadership philosophy? Results and en oyment. I encourage the team to take pride in their e pertise while building genuine relationships

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with clients. esults should speak for themselves.

What sets SILK apart in the region? tate-of-the-art technology, ongoing training and a friendly, knowledgeable team. s part of the national I aser linics network, owned by esfarmers, we invest heavily in innovation and education.

How do you stay current?

Through national training programs and a strong internal learning culture.

Why is giving back important? ive is gain. upporting groups like the ancer ouncil matters. ow can people nd out more For bookings, contact the clinic directly or visit silklaser.com.au.

Contact the Clinic Direct 6651 1592 or email us at coffsharbour@silklaser.com.au check out our website silklaser.com follow us nationally on Facebook I aser linics Instagram silk_laser_clinics locally ilk aser linic offs arbour. ind us at Park Beach Plaza

WOMEN in BUSINESS

BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE HOLLY DUNN HEAD OF FACULTY MATHEMATICS

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hat inspires your commitment to educational leadership and excellence?

Our passion for education is driven by a deep commitment to high-quality teaching, collaborative leadership, and meaningful student growth through a shared desire to inspire students to develop curiosity and confidence. Through in uirybased learning, data-informed differentiation, curriculum reform, and mentoring colleagues, we strive to create responsive, inclusive environments where both students and staff thrive. e are incredibly honoured to have received the Rising Stars School Leadership wards in , recognition that reflects the values underpinning our ideals for education.

What does being an award-winning woman in the education space mean to you personally?

HOLLY: I reflect on the mentors who shaped my ourney. I wouldn t be in this position without the unwavering support of my colleagues - particularly the late Michelle alker, who encouraged me to step into this role and believed deeply in my vision. This award is a proud validation that the heart and

ISABEL HORSPOOL KINDERGARTEN TEACHER

hard work put in behind the scenes truly make a difference for our students and the wider community.

How do you help students move from ideas to real con dent action e support students by providing clear, e plicit guidance and taking time to build their confidence, so they feel safe and supported as they learn. y fostering an environment where children encourage and celebrate one another, students develop a growth mindset and feel comfortable turning their ideas into action, knowing they are valued and supported every step of the way.

What’s the most rewarding part of the work you do at Bishop Druitt College?

The most rewarding part is undoubtedly the connection. hether it s seeing a student e cited to walk into our maths or kindergarten classroom or watching them evolve into incredible young people, being part of the community and witnessing their growth is a privilege we never take for granted. e also feel fortunate to work alongside such passionate and supportive staff, which makes every day meaningful and energising.

HOLLY: Say “yes” and put yourself out there. our uni ue perspective is valuable, and while stepping out of your comfort zone can be daunting, it is the only way to truly grow. I have had the opportunity to do this twice in my career at , first as a ead of ouse and currently as ead of aculty for athematics. Trust in your e perience, don t be afraid to get it wrong the first time, and remember that there is always a community ready to support you.

ISABEL: ack yourself e willing to give things a go and ask uestions when you re unsure, because growth comes from curiosity, not from having all the answers. mbrace being a reflective practitioner, taking time to learn from both the successes and the challenges along the way. eek out a trusted colleague or mentor to reflect with. Those conversations can make all the difference, especially in tougher moments, helping you adapt and grow with confidence.

What advice would you give to women wanting to grow, lead or learn something new in education?

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WOMEN in BUSINESS

W SARAH WOODHAM

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hat inspired you to start your business, and how has it evolved over time? I grew up with two inspiring, creative grandmothers who introduced me to the magic of art and design. I was fascinated by its layers and the emotion it could evoke. With a background in psychology, I began to see the powerful connection between environment and wellbeing. esigning my first daughter s nursery was a turning point, I realised how meaningful spaces could truly be. That led me to pursue formal studies in interior design. hat began as a passion for children s spaces has evolved into a diverse practice spanning styling, visual merchandising, trauma informed design, property staging, residential and commercial design, along with colour and build selections for local builders.

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centres on lifestyle, aligning a client s values and purpose with their environment. This requires curiosity, active listening and thoughtful consultation. By understanding what truly matters in their day-to-day life, we can respectfully introduce new ideas through layout, colour, materials and finishes that balance personality with functionality.

What’s been one of your biggest lessons as a woman in business? There is power in generosity, empathy and reliability. Leading with kindness while remaining dependable creates meaningful client experiences and strong professional relationships. hello@saltedgraceinteriors.com 0435 302 555 saltedgraceinteriors.com

ow do you create spaces that reflect both your client’s lifestyle and your signature aesthetic? My design philosophy

H A R B O U R A T H O M E CARE QUALITY, TRAINING AND SUPPORT MANAGER

hat do you enjoy most about your role at Harbour at Home? What I enjoy most about my role at Harbour at Home is the opportunity to support both staff and clients in meaningful and practical ways. Every day brings the chance to make a difference, whether it s helping a team member through a challenge, guiding someone to grow in their role, or ensuring clients receive high-quality, person-centred care. I value being part of a team that works together with purpose and compassion. Seeing the positive impact that effective support can have with confidence, wellbeing, and overall service quality, makes my work deeply rewarding. I feel proud to contribute to a workplace where people look after each other and where clients are genuinely cared for.

How do you build trust and meaningful connections with the people you support?

I build trust primarily through open, respectful, and consistent communication. I make sure people feel heard by taking time to understand

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their needs and perspectives, and I follow through on my commitments so they know they can rely on me. Empathy is essential; approaching every interaction with kindness, honesty, and genuine care helps create a safe and supportive environment. I strive to be approachable and transparent so people feel comfortable sharing concerns or asking for help.

Trust grows when people feel valued, respected, and included in decisions that affect them.

What advice would you give to women working in caring or community-focused roles? My advice is to recognise your strengths and the unique value you bring to this work.

Caring roles require emotional intelligence, resilience, and heart, qualities women often display naturally. Prioritise self-care, set healthy boundaries, and don t be afraid to use your voice. Support each other, seek continuous learning, and stay connected to your purpose.

Your work changes lives.

0427 623 224 deborah.boon@bigpond.com

DEBBIE BOON

WOMEN in BUSINESS

W SAM BROWNING Cofofffffsfs Co Co Coa oas astst B O O K K E E P I N G S O L U T I O N S

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C O F F S C O A S T B O O K K E E P I N G S O L U T I O N S

hat inspired you to start Coffs Coast Bookkeeping Solutions? I started Coffs Coast Bookkeeping Solutions after seeing how many local business owners felt stressed and confused by their finances. I wanted to offer supportive, easy-to-understand bookkeeping that gives small businesses clarity, confidence, and more time to focus on what they do best, without the normal ‘boring’ accountant vibes.

How do you help business owners feel more con dent and in control of their nances I help business owners feel confident by keeping their books accurate, up to date, and easy to understand. I break down the numbers in plain language, provide regular insights, and stay proactive, so they always know where their business stands and can make informed decisions without the stress.

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hat inspired you to start Coffs Coast Hair Studio? Coffs Coast Hair Studio was inspired by a simple idea, creating a space where people could relax, feel genuinely cared for, and leave feeling confident. I wanted a salon that blended high-quality hair services with a warm, coastal vibe, where clients felt listened to and never rushed.

Living on the Coffs Coast, I’m constantly inspired by the lifestyle, community, and natural beauty of the area, and I wanted the studio to reflect that laid-back yet professional energy.

How would you describe the experience you want every client to leave with? Calm, confident, and genuinely cared for. rom the moment a client walks through the door, the experience is about comfort, trust, and personalised care. I want everyone to leave not only loving their hair but feeling refreshed, relaxed, and confident in themselves.

What’s been one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned as a woman in business? Learning to trust my instincts and back myself has been one of the biggest lessons. etting boundaries, valuing

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What makes Coffs Coast Bookkeeping Solutions different from other bookkeeping services? I’m not just here to tick boxes and do your books. I take a proactive, personal approach, building real relationships, breaking down the numbers simply, and helping clients feel calm and confident about their finances.

What advice would you give to business owners who feel overwhelmed by their numbers? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to do it all yourself. tarting and running a business can be scary. eek support sooner rather than later. lear, up-to-date numbers reduce stress, improve decisions, and give you back time and headspace to actually enjoy running your business. info@coffscoastbookkeeping.com.au coffscoastbookkeeping.com.au 0447 197 022

S T U D I O

my time, and leading with confidence, even when it feels uncomfortable, has been essential to both personal and professional growth.

What sets Coffs Coast Hair Studio apart?

Personalised, high-quality care is at the heart of everything we do. ur team takes the time to listen and tailor each service, whether it’s a colour refresh or a full restyle, so results feel personal, never generic. The salon is known for skilled stylists with strong attention to detail, particularly Jemma and Louise, who are praised for their professionalism and friendliness. e also proudly use De Lorenzo Australian-made haircare and are the only De Lorenzo ASPYA salon in Coffs Harbour, offering premium, sustainable products. ombined with our relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, clients feel valued and truly looked after.

JEMMA & LOUISE FRAME

0466 077 083 Shop 4/13-15 Park Avenue. coffscoasthairstudio.com COFFS COAST focus 103

REBECCA KENT

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WOMEN in BUSINESS

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NAB

s a Business Banking Executive, what have you learned about the mindset and habits that set successful business owners apart, particularly women in leadership? My banking career has taken me up and down the East Coast of NSW and now to the Coffs Coast and Clarence Valley. Each move has shaped the leader and person I am today.

To me, leadership isn t defined by gender. uccessful leaders and business owners share common traits, dedication, adaptability, agility in decision-making and a strong sense of purpose. They lift others as they grow and back themselves even when the path ahead isn’t straightforward. A positive mindset keeps you open to opportunity and focused on what’s possible.

Banking has traditionally been a male-dominated space. What challenges have you navigated, and how have they shaped your leadership style? Early in my career, leadership banking roles were largely male-dominated. That has shifted significantly, and today I’m proud to work alongside one of the most talented and diverse teams of my career.

Our local NAB Business Banking Centre includes 20 team members, 11 of whom are exceptional women in customer-facing roles.

Their e pertise, passion and commitment reflect the positive change happening across the industry and the power of women supporting women. Together, we support home lending, business growth from start-up to maturity, and complex lending structures across all industries. Their diverse skill set accommodates everyone in our community, whether you are an employee, self employed, professional, or within the agricultural sector.

It also helps to work for an organisation that invests in talent.

Programs such as NAB’s 1500 Degrees initiative, named after the melting point of glass, help prepare women for senior leadership roles and support them as they grow.

0429 842 814

Rebecca.C.Kent@nab.com.au

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C E L E B R A T I N G

VALLA PHARMACY

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Years

JESSICA ELLIS, SARAH RANKING, CATIE THOMPSON, ALEXI REYNOLDS, KASEY COOK

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ast year marked 10 years since alla harmacy rst opened.

What were those early days li e and what moments stand out most when you reflect on the ourney so far

Trust comes from consistency and service. e ve made it a priority to always be approachable and available to our community, ready to answer any uestion, big or small. e also offer a range of personalised services that make life easier, like ed dvisor app ordering, ebster acks, medication reviews, vaccinations and home delivery. These touches help people feel truly looked after, which is what community pharmacy is all about.

hen we first opened in ebruary , I was the sole employee working si days a week. They were long hours, but I absolutely loved getting to know the community and was blown away What challenges ha e you faced as women by the support we received right from the start. in business and what lessons ha e those The sense of e citement and encouragement e periences taught you about leadership from locals really cemented that we were filling resilience and bac ing yourself a need in alla. ooking back, it s incredible to see how far we ve come, eing a woman in a from those early solo days traditionally male-led to now having another industry can feel daunting Our workplace full-time pharmacist, at times, especially in culture is built on three shop assistants and the early days. ut I ve empathy, collaboration two unior assistants who learned that hard work, and genuine care. help after school. eeing integrity, and community We understand the our small business grow spirit speak louder than importance of listening alongside our tight-knit anything else. unning and connection, and community has been one a business teaches that flows through to of the most rewarding resilience, adaptability how we look after our parts of the ourney. and the importance of customers. surrounding yourself with Valla Pharmacy is the right team. elieving proudly owned and in your own vision, even run by an all female when things get tough, is what carries you team. ow has that shaped the culture of through. the business and the way you care for your community harmacy ownership has traditionally been a male-dominated area. f the eight pharmacies in the ambucca alley, only two are owned by women, so being an all-female team is something we re very proud of. ur workplace culture is built on empathy, collaboration and genuine care. e understand the importance of listening and connection, and that flows through to how we look after our customers. hether it s a simple uestion about a medication or someone needing a uiet chat about their health, we always take time to help with warmth and professionalism. ndependent pharmacies play such an important role in regional towns. What do you thin has been ey to building trust and long term relationships with your customers o er the past decade

Loo ing ahead what s ne t for alla harmacy and what ad ice would you gi e to other women considering opening or growing a business in a regional community e re e cited to keep e panding our health services, staying at the forefront of pharmacy care with vaccination programs and medication management innovations. y advice to other women is simple back yourself, lean on your community, and don t be afraid of hard work, because the rewards of building something meaningful in a regional town are e traordinary. alla harmacy, 3-3 alla each oad, alla each, , hone , Email info vallapharmacy.com.au Website vallapharmacy.com.au COFFS COAST focus 107

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Education

Update with SIMON DOYLE

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LET THEM: A LEADERSHIP MINDSET FOR SCHOOL AND HOME

P RI N C IPA L , N SW N O R T H COAST

s a school principal on the North Coast of New South Wales, I spend much of my day navigating expectations - from students, parents and staff to government regulations and the wider community. Like anyone leading a people-centred organisation, I know how quickly leadership can become preoccupied with perceptions rather than purpose. With the speed and reach of modern communication, leadership demands steadiness and focus.

Over time, I have learned that sustainable leadership is not about controlling every outcome. It is about clarity of purpose, disciplined thinking and wise use of energy.

Reading The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins and Sawyer Robbins sharpened that thinking.

The premise is simple: when others behave in ways that differ from our expectations, let them.

Then ask the more powerful question, what will I choose to do next? This is not indifference or passivity; it is intentional leadership.

Control is not the same as influence.

Leadership involves recognising the limits of influence. e cannot predict other people s behaviour, emotions or opinions, but we can govern our response. Releasing the need to control every variable is not weakness; it creates space to act with clarity and intention.

In schools, decisive action is essential in matters of safety, wellbeing, values, equity and governance - these responsibilities are non-negotiable. At the same time, effective leadership requires discernment. Not every issue warrants intervention, and not every difference 108 COFFS COAST focus

requires escalation. The skill lies in knowing what demands action and what is best addressed through patience, perspective and steady guidance.

The Power of “Let Me” The strength of this framework sits in its second half: Let me choose my response. Let me set clear boundaries. Let me act in alignment with my values.

Boundaries are not defensive; they are principled.

Allowing others to be themselves does not require us to compromise standards or accept behaviour outside agreed expectations. It means creating space for growth while maintaining clarity about what is acceptable. nergy and attention are finite resources.

Effective leadership, like effective parenting, requires sustainability. When we focus on what is within our influence, we preserve capacity for thoughtful decisions, strong relationships and long-term direction.

Acceptance brings freedom. One of the most valuable lessons in leadership, and in raising children, is that not every situation requires an immediate response. Silence, patience and observation can be more effective than quick intervention. Growth happens in the space we allow others to reflect, learn from e perience and take responsibility.

Acceptance does not excuse harm, injustice or unsafe behaviour. True leadership is knowing when to accept, when to guide and when to step back. While we cannot control the economy, community opinion or every decision made by our children or colleagues, we can control our response and next step. By doing

so, we create an environment that encourages independence, accountability and resilience.

What this means for parents and carers The “Let Them” mindset is equally powerful at home. We want to protect children from disappointment and mistakes, yet growth depends on both. Let them forget a due date.

Let them spend birthday money unwisely. Let them navigate friendship challenges. Within clear boundaries of safety and family values, these moments become learning opportunities.

Teenagers are developing independence. When adults smooth over every problem, we limit resilience. When we allow natural consequences, paired with calm, value-based conversations, we build coping strategies, accountability and confidence.

Schools and families work best when aligned in this approach. When young people know adults will support them without rescuing them from every difficulty, they learn to reflect, ad ust and persevere.

Leading with clarity and integrity For educational leaders, business owners and families across the North Coast, this approach offers clarity and perspective. Markets shift.

Staff change roles. Children test boundaries, and opinions circulate. We cannot control all of it. hat we can influence are our standards, the example we set, our values and the integrity with which we act. “Let them” is not lowering expectations; it focuses on what is in our control, our decisions, our character and our response.

From that place, we nurture communities built on trust, resilience and shared purpose.

An Exceptional Kindergarten Experience A SAFE, INCLUSIVE AND NURTURING ENVIRONMENT Dedicated Wellbeing Hub Onsite School Nurse Wellbeing dog Specialist Wellbeing staff Explicit whole-child framework supporting curiosity, confidence and independence

OUR EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH BLENDS EXPLICIT TEACHING WITH CURIOSITY-LED LEARNING MSL (Multisensory Structured Language learning) Talk for Writing Designing for Deeper Learning (DDL) Investigations Program Express Yourself Everyone (EYE) Week, a week dedicated to exploring the Arts

DEDICATED KINDERGARTEN INFRASTRUCTURE & INVESTMENT Continuous infrastructure upgrades (playgrounds, classrooms, air-conditioning) Access to whole-school facilities from Kindergarten Kindergarten-specific spaces and resources

STRONG COMMUNITY TRANSITION EXPERIENCES TO SUPPORT A CONFIDENT START Dedicated Kindergarten Engagement Coordinator Single point of contact from inquiry to commencement A smooth and supportive enrolment and interview process Playgroups across multiple regional locations Purposeful transition and orientation program Community and connection events, such as Picnic & Play and Little Movers Convenient before and after school care options

ENRICHMENT BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Dance Academy Lunchtime clubs School sporting teams Onsite private music tuition Access to performing arts pathways Enrichment that connects directly to primary and secondary years

BDC Kindergarten offers a deep, evidence-based, future-focused early learning experience with exceptional wellbeing support and enrichment breadth, offering a schooling journey with strong academic, pastoral and enrichment pathways.

Enrolling Now Kindergarten & Year 11 2027, 2028 and Beyond

02 6651 5644 Option 2 enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au

Follow BDC! COFFS COAST focus 109

Meet the minds transforming tomorrow

Across our region, we’re redesigning how we listen to young people, reimagining how maths is taught, removing financial barriers from higher education, and transforming how First Nations families experience healthcare. We spoke to four amazing women about how their work is generating positive, practical change.

A

CHAMPIONING CULTURALLY SAFE CERVICAL SCREENING

ssociate Professor Marilyn Clarke has seen first-hand how maternity care can mean the difference between life or death. It s inspired years of practice on umbayngirr ountry, championing e uitable, respectful and safe care for irst ations families.

women s health practitioners in and always treated women holistically. In medical school I was inspired by ister lison ush, legendary boriginal midwife. I spent a year working in apua ew uinea where I saw how maternity care can make such a difference for women. I was hooked.

with the ational boriginal ommunity

ustralia s first boriginal specialist, orimi woman, mother of two, and member of the outhern ross niversity aculty of ealth in offs arbour, arilyn s early career was shaped by a few key e periences.

ow as chief investigator of I T , arilyn is working to address the disproportionate rates of cervical cancer for irst ations women.

and skills among irst ations health

y

um was one of the first independent

sing tools and resources that will be codesigned by communities, in partnership

ontrolled ealth rganisation, the aim is to increase cervical screening rates by offering the test during routine antenatal checkups. key focus is building workforce capacity, which means building confidence practitioners to offer both self-collected and clinician-collected screening across boriginal communities. It s all aimed at making sure ustralian s hard work eradicating cervical cancer includes irst ations women, too.

MAKING MATHS MAKE SENSE FOR A NEW GENERATION

J

ust the word mathematics is enough to make some people shudder. or olly edd, maths always had the answer. ow she s spending her career helping others see it that way, too. ow ead Teacher, athematics, at rara igh chool, olly s early career involved teaching people to ice skate at the ig anana. Those aturdays inspired thoughts of teaching as a career, and olly completed her degree at outhern ross niversity as she wove her love of maths and teaching together.

I saw the untapped potential of maths and I thought others might see it too if it were taught differently and more creatively. I also thought it would have a positive impact on students, not ust in how they learned, but in their willingness to learn.

That instinct has proved correct, backed by increased engagement and improved 110 COFFS COAST focus

outcomes, and deepend by olly s asters of ducation focusing on student wellbeing. blend of research, creativity and relevance, with techni ues like escape rooms and team challenges, has helped students see maths as a practical language that unlocks confidence.

This approach is shared outside the classroom. In , olly supported more than teachers in remote and regional areas as a ural earning change athematics etwork acilitator, sits on

the board of the of

athematical ssociation

, lectures at outhern ross

niversity and was awarded a

remier s

Teacher cholarship to research mathematics learning through artificial intelligence. aths is everywhere in life. It is a language all on its own and a beautiful one. Its contribution to real life is all-encompassing, and it is so important to convey that through education.

INNOVATING WHOLE-PERSON APPROACHES FOR MENTAL HEALTH

S

upporting individual patients is the bread and butter of good practitioners.

For Jessica McEvoy, transforming the systems that support them is a life’s

work.

hen essica graduated with a achelor of Nursing from Southern Cross University’s Coffs Harbour campus, she was drawn to mental health for the opportunity to deeply connect with patients and help shape better long-term outcomes. ut working as a urse anager on a significant health pro ect, as well as the decision to return to study a Master of Healthcare Leadership, sparked in Jess a real passion for systems change.

“It was really exciting to me to see that you can make change through engaging with, and empowering staff, and that this change can remain embedded if everyone understands what you’re doing and is able to embrace it.”

Since being awarded the Postgraduate Southern Cross University Coffs Coast International Women’s Day Scholarship in 2022, Jessica’s next chapter is unfolding on the Gold Coast as a Nurse Unit Manager at Robina Private Hospital; a return student studying a achelor of Innovation and an ssociate Teacher at Southern Cross University’s Faculty of ealth. These roles fit together as essica brings experience, innovation and a passion for

caring for patients and nurses alike.

“My thesis explores “the invisible PPE”: self-care for nurses. long with teaching, I see this as deeply intertwined with transforming mental health care. Using evidence-based strategies into early training and staff wellbeing means nurses are supported to deliver compassionate, whole-person care.

LEADING A MUCH-NEEDED TEXTBOOK REVOLUTION real difference to those students, to make academic success more achievable.”

Working closely with liaison librarian Carlie Daley and collaborating with unit assessors across the degree, Desirée helped launch ustralia s first zero-te tbook-cost psychology program. Now running for two years, it’s saving students hundreds of thousands of dollars and opening doors for non-traditional students.

W

hen a graduate casually admitted they’d never been able to afford textbooks, Dr Desirée Kozlowski decided she’d do something about it. s a psychological science academic and hair of the cademic oard at outhern

e now have zero-cost te tbooks as the default policy across the University, which Cross University, Desirée asked: what if the entire achelor of sychological cience used free, open educational resources instead?

makes studying more accessible. nother

“The cost of traditional textbooks represented a particular burden on students already struggling. I wanted to make a

lecturers to add cutting-edge research and

benefit of getting rid of a monolithic textbook is that it opens up course material to more diverse voices and allows our expert emerging practice as they happen. It’s been groundbreaking.”

COFFS COAST focus 111

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 September 2022 Funded using Parliamentary 112 COFFS COAST focus Entitlements July 2023

focus_contributor.

Coffs Coast

T

he Coffs Coast is regarded far and wide as the number one region in NSW. And rightly so.

In this slice of paradise we’re proud to call home, we lap up the laid-back coastal lifestyle and our sundrenched beaches, and we treasure our stunning hinterland and rainforests.

More and more people continue to come here to dive deep into the great outdoors, as well as explore everything else we have to offer.

As we farewell summer and embrace autumn, the milder months give locals and visitors the perfect chance to soak up the Coffs Coast, where you can explore spectacular national parks, go for a bike ride or a run or simply relax by the sea, to name just a few.

We’ve chosen to live here because we love it. We have a strong sense of community and a fair go and we know what it means to have a generous heart.

We always reach out to help those who need it when the going gets tough. ife has been e tremely difficult in regional communities like the Coffs Coast, communities which have endured drought, bushfires, floods,

the pandemic, the rising cost of living, the housing crisis and rampant crime.

But I’m proud of how we always seem to come together as a community to tackle these challenges – some of which are ongoing – and to find a way through to better times.

The Coffs Coast is certainly a diverse, thriving and growing regional capital.

We have a booming tourism industry and we play host to significant national and international sporting and cultural events and conferences.

STAT E O F

PL AY with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

horticulture, beef, dairy, forestry and fisheries all strongly represented and providing important employment opportunities.

Exciting developments in the innovation and digital realms are creating big opportunities for this part of the world too.

As we farewell summer and embrace autumn, the milder months give locals and visitors the perfect chance to soak up the Coffs Coast, where you can explore spectacular national parks, go for a bike ride or a run or simply relax by the sea, to name just a few.

Our business community, and small businesses most particularly, are the engine rooms for the growth our region enjoys. I’d encourage everyone to shop locally and to keep supporting local businesses in these tough economic times.

Another sector contributing to our success and doing the Coffs Coast proud is agriculture, with

As the Member for Coffs Harbour, I will always advocate for and seek to achieve more opportunities and more growth for our local community.

I ll keep fighting to ensure we have access to the same services enjoyed by people living elsewhere in the state.

Being able to stand up for the community as your local MP, to listen to your concerns and to act in your best interests is the greatest honour imaginable.

As the Leader of the NSW Nationals, I’ll ensure the voices of regional communities like ours are always heard.

COFFS COAST focus 113

EOIs close 9 2 Sun. h Marc

VOLUNTEER GRANTS

Applications Now Open!

Are you a volunteer group in need of up to $5,000 in funding?

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now being sought through my office. Grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are available to eligible not-for-profit community organisations for things like the purchase of small equipment items, volunteer travel and transport expenses, background screening costs and volunteer training.

Visit patconaghan.com.au/volunteergrants to download the EOI form today and be considered for this important funding.

SCAN CODE

Pat CONAGHAN MP YOUR FEDERAL MEMBER forCowper

PORT MACQUARIE: Level 4, JBC Building 41–47 Horton Street | Phone 6583 8387 COFFS HARBOUR: Suite 3, 129 West High Street | Phone 5507 9555 EMAIL: pat.conaghan.mp@aph.gov.au 114 COFFS COAST focus

Authorised by P. Conaghan MP, National Party of Australia, Level 4, JBC Building, 41–47 Horton Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

COFFS COAST focus 111

Swell WOOLGOOLGA

with JIM HILLERY

SENIOR DEVELOPMENT & ACQUISITIONS MANAGER FOR CLARENCE PROPERTY

T

he on site civil team has continued to make fantastic progress at the Swell master planned community, and I’m really pleased to see the first stage beginning to take shape as the first 3 home sites move closer to completion.

Despite some rain in the area recently, the See Civil team is still on track to put the finishing touches on the first release in the coming months.

keeping an eye on Swell since it started, so it’s great to see the development finally come to life.”

“We love this location, it’s well-connected and so close to the sports complex and the high school, which really suits our family. We’re seriously considering building a new home in Swell in the near future.”

We love this location, it’s well-connected and so close to the sports complex and the high school, which really suits our family.

We’re seriously considering building a new home in Swell in the near future.

The Cardow+Partners sales team is continuing to book private inspections to show prospective purchasers and locals the homesites under construction in Stage 1. If you haven’t already done so, I highly recommend getting in touch with Nicole and the team to book a site tour to check out the project for yourself.

At our recent open day, one of our local Woolgoolga neighbours told me, “we’ve been 116 COFFS COAST focus

SWELL WOOLGOOLGA’S NEW HOME OPTIONS – START BUILDING THIS YEAR

ith the first settlements expected in , I m looking forward to seeing the first new homes start to take shape later this year. I’ve seen a few of the designs underway for our buyers and there’s some really impressive looking homes being planned, including smart homes with modern, energyefficient features and environmentally sustainable materials.

While many buyers are choosing to build custom, architecturally designed homes, we’ve also been collaborating with a number of reputable local builders to offer a selection of

house and land packages in both one and two storey designs.

We recently welcomed a new builder to the Woolgoolga area, Hunter Homes, who are e panding into the offs region after years successfully building new homes across the Hunter, Newcastle and Port Stephens regions.

For buyers interested in streamlining their building process, we now have a good selection of new three, four and five bedroom homes, ideally selected to suit the land in Swell, priced from under up to around .3 .

Drawing comparisons to recent sales of houses in the area, Ms Cardow said, “the price point reflects great value for brand-new turnkey homes in a neighbourhood where second-hand homes are selling for similar prices”.

The etreat elease , comprising 3 level homesites is now over sold, so we re urging buyers to act quickly if they want to start building this year. There are still some good options available, with home sites priced from , to , . or more information on the land now selling, or house and land packages for sale, scan the QR code on the Swell ad in this issue of Focus and instantly receive an information pack including plans and prices.

First Homesites Nearing Completion

Artist’s impression

Start building your dream coastal home this year.

ASK ABOUT HOUSE & LAND PACKAGES NOW SELLING. The Swell Woolgoolga masterplanned community’s first release of homesites is taking shape and the first lucky residents will start building their forever homes in coming months. Don’t miss your chance to secure a level, family homesite in the foundation release of this well-connected new neighbourhood.

Release 1 is now over 75% sold. Homesites are selling from $490,000*.

SCAN NOW for Open location and details < SCAN NOW for anDay information pack including project plans, pricing and information. as well as project plans, pricing and information.

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.

COFFS COAST focus 111

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Locally owned and family-run, Wall to Wall Plastering brings over 20 years of expertise to your dream home project.

Contact our team today: 0431 583 497 walltowallplastering.com.au 118 COFFS COAST focus

offs oast

P R O P E R T Y

G U I D E

J B Z B U I L D I N G // B R A D S H A R P H A M

COFFS COAST focus 119

JBZ BUILDING BRAD SHARPHAM

Family, integrity and innovation sit at the foundation of JBZ Building.

What began as a small, family-driven operation has grown into one of the Coffs Coast’s most versatile and forward-thinking building companies.

W

ith expansion into custom steel structures and the acquisition of The Shed Company Coffs Harbour, Brad Sharpham and his team are reshaping what modern building looks like, without losing the personal connection that built their name.

What inspired you to start JBZ Building, and how has the business evolved since those early days? The family has always been at the heart of JBZ Building. Our business was created around our little family. Jade, Brad and Ziggy, and now our beautiful baby girl Aura Belle. Family means everything to us, and we wanted to build a company that reflects those values, creating homes with care, pride and genuine connection, while also giving back to 120 COFFS COAST focus

our local community. e ve grown significantly since the early days when it was just myself and an apprentice.

Today, we have a team of seven dedicated staff and a strong pipeline of residential, commercial and shed projects. One of the biggest milestones in our journey was acquiring The Shed Company Coffs Harbour. That expansion has allowed us to step into custom steel structures and high-end shed homes, an area we’re incredibly passionate about and excited to grow further.

What do you believe truly sets JBZ Building apart in the Coffs Harbour market? Our customer experience is what truly sets us apart.

We prioritise building trust from day one by taking the time to genuinely understand our clients’ needs, lifestyle and long-term goals.

Through both JBZ Building and The Shed Company, we now offer a complete, integrated solution. Whether it’s a custom home, renovation, commercial build or fully customised shed home, we manage the entire process, from initial concept and kit supply right through to construction and handover. That end-to-end integration gives our clients clarity, cost control and confidence throughout every stage of the build.

As the owner, what does a typical day look like for you, and which part of the business do you enjoy most? With multiple projects underway at any given time, including shed homes, custom steel builds and residential projects, my days are spent coordinating our team, trades and suppliers to ensure every pro ect runs efficiently and meets our high standards.

The part I enjoy most is delivering a client’s vision. Seeing a concept move from paper to reality is always rewarding. Shed homes in particular allow families to think differently about how they live. We’re designing modern, architectural-style homes within steel structures that are both cost-effective and incredibly versatile. It's exciting to be part of that evolution in housing.

What type of projects do you feel most proud of, and why do they stand out personally? Our shed homes are something we’re extremely proud of. Through The Shed Company Coffs Harbour, we supply high-quality Australian steel shed kits and then construct and customise them into fully finished homes.

These projects provide a smarter, more accessible way for people to enter the property market without compromising on quality,

design or durability.

Watching families achieve home ownership through an alternative building approach that still feels modern and high-end is incredibly rewarding.

That expansion has allowed us to step into custom steel structures and highend shed homes, an area we’re incredibly passionate about and excited to grow further.

What trends are you currently seeing in residential building on the Coffs Coast? Shed homes are one of the fastest-growing trends we’re seeing. With rising construction costs and cost-of-living pressures, people are looking for smarter, more costeffective ways to build.

Custom shed homes offer a stylish, durable and more affordable alternative to traditional builds.

Because we manage both the kit supply and the full construction process, clients benefit from a

streamlined service that runs seamlessly from slab to final handover.

How can people get in touch?

You can visit jbzbuilding.com.au, follow us on Instagram

or Facebook to view our latest projects, or call us on 0424 344 788.

For custom shed projects, visit theshedcompany.com.au and request a quote online.

We’re always happy to chat about your next build, whether it’s a renovation, new home or custom shed project.

Thanks Brad.

COFFS COAST focus 121

BUILT ON EXPERIENCE. BACKED BY INTEGRITY. DELIVERED WITH PRIDE. THREE TRUSTED NAMES. ONE COMMITMENT TO QUALITY ACROSS THE COFFS COAST.

URBAN LIVING BUILDING INSPECTIONS

JBZ BUILDING PTY LTD

CONFIDENCE BEFORE YOU COMMIT.

QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP. HONEST CONSTRUCTION.

Buying or building is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and knowledge is power. Urban Living Building Inspections delivers thorough, easy-tounderstand property reports to help buyers, sellers, and investors make confident, informed decisions, identifying structural issues, defects, and potential risks so there are no costly surprises later.

✓ Pre-purchase inspections ✓ Pre-sale reports ✓ Building & pest inspections ✓ Detailed, reliable reporting Protect your investment with clarity and confidence. www.urbanlivinginspections.com.au

122 COFFS COAST focus

At JBZ Building, we believe great builds start with strong relationships. From custom homes and renovations to extensions and structural projects, our focus is simple: do it once, do it right.

We combine practical experience, transparent communication, and quality workmanship to deliver results that stand the test of time.

✓ Custom homes ✓ Renovations & extensions ✓ Structural building work ✓ Residential & commercial projects Built with precision. Delivered with pride. www.jbzbuilding.com.au

THE SHED COMPANY COFFS HARBOUR STRONGER SHEDS. SMARTER SOLUTIONS. From backyard workshops to large-scale rural and commercial sheds, The Shed Company Coffs Harbour delivers durable, Australian-engineered steel structures designed to perform in local conditions.

Every shed is custom-designed to suit your needs, functional, compliant, and built to last.

✓ Garages & workshops ✓ Rural & farm sheds ✓ Industrial & commercial sheds ✓ Custom-designed steel structures

A COMPLETE BUILDING SOLUTION

Strength, versatility, reliability.

From inspection to construction to structural solutions, our businesses work together to provide seamless service across every stage of your project.

www.theshedcompany.com.au

Local. Experienced. Trusted.

Brad Sharpham 0424 344 788 bradsharpham@jbzbuilding.com COFFS COAST focus 123

SAWTELL SANCTUARY R E F I N E D CO AS TA L L I V I N G W I T H S PA C E TO U N W I N D

Sawtell Sanctuary is a beautifully appointed coastal retreat designed for relaxed living, connection and comfort. Nestled in one of Sawtell’s most desirable pockets, this spacious home combines modern convenience with the effortless charm of seaside life, making it ideal for families or groups seeking a premium Coffs Coast Escape.

E

xpansive Living Designed for Connection

Sleeping up to ten guests across five generously sized bedrooms, awtell anctuary offers an e ceptional sense of space both indoors and out. Two separate living areas provide fle ibility for larger groups, allowing adults and children to rela independently while still en oying shared moments together. hether it is a uiet morning coffee, an afternoon rest, or an evening movie, the home s layout supports every pace of holiday living and ensures everyone has room to unwind. t the heart of the home sits a contemporary, fully e uipped kitchen complete with 124 COFFS COAST focus

dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave and uality appliances. Thoughtfully designed for functionality and ease, it flows seamlessly into the dining area, creating the perfect setting for shared meals, celebration dinners and long, memorable conversations. atural light enhances the open plan living spaces, while coastal styling and comfortable furnishings create a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout, reflecting the rela ed lifestyle that defines awtell.

Comfortable and Private Accommodation The master suite features a king size bed and private ensuite, offering a peaceful retreat at the end of each day. Three additional bedrooms are fitted with comfortable ueen beds, providing ample space for couples or

adult guests. The fifth bedroom includes two single beds, making it ideal for children or friends travelling together. ach bedroom has been carefully considered to ensure a restful and comfortable stay, allowing guests to fully unwind after days spent en oying the sunshine, swimming, or e ploring awtell and the wider offs oast.

Outdoor Living and Poolside Relaxation tep outside and discover your own private oasis. large, covered deck e tends the indoor living space and is fitted with outdoor blinds and shutters, allowing for year round en oyment regardless of the weather. It is an inviting space to host casual barbecues, en oy afternoon drinks, or gather with family while overlooking the backyard.

focus_contributor.

with EMMA QUINN

FROM COFFS COAST ESCAPES

The sparkling self cleaning pool adds a resort style element to your stay, offering the perfect way to cool off on warm summer days or relax poolside in complete privacy.

The fully fenced yard also provides additional space for children to play safely.

Comfort, Convenience and Thoughtful Inclusions

perfectly placed to enjoy boutique shopping, award winning cafes, relaxed dining and coastal walks. The famous Hilltop Store, known for its exceptional coffee, popular breakfast menu, and welcoming staff, is just a short walk from the property. The charm of Sawtell lies in its walkable layout and friendly atmosphere, making every day of your stay feel effortless and unhurried.

Sawtell Sanctuary is equipped with free WiFi, More than simply a washing machine Positioned close accommodation, and dryer, hair dryer, to Boambee Bay Sawtell Sanctuary iron and ironing board, and Headland, Sawtell’s offers a setting to and practical inclusions patrolled beach, and the reconnect, recharge throughout to ensure a vibrant First Avenue and create lasting seamless experience. Air village precinct, you are memories in one of conditioning and ceiling perfectly placed to enjoy NSW’s most loved fans provide added boutique shopping, and friendly seaside comfort across the award winning cafes, communities. seasons. The property is relaxed dining and professionally cleaned Book Your Stay coastal walks. and meticulously Make your next Sawtell maintained, ready to getaway effortless by welcome guests with booking directly with comfort and care from the moment they Coffs Coast Escapes. arrive.

Visit coffscoastescapes.com.au, Experience the Best of Sawtell Positioned close to Boambee Bay and Headland, Sawtell’s patrolled beach, and the vibrant First Avenue village precinct, you are

email escapes@mcgrath.com.au, or call 02 6652 8885 to secure your stay.

List or book with us. Your Property.

Our Expertise. Exceptional Results.

COFFS COAST focus 125

PRICING PROPERTY FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT

with SHANE BROOKS PRINCIPAL & LICENSEE OF STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR

STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FROM A HIGH-PERFORMING LOCAL AGENCY

W

hen selling property on the Coffs Coast, pricing is not about optimism, it’s about strategy.

After decades working across prestige coastal homes, lifestyle properties and family residences, one principle remains constant: Correct pricing creates leverage.

As we move into a more stability-driven market cycle, intelligent pricing is becoming the defining factor between average and exceptional results.

Understanding how to position a property in the current market is critical.

• First impressions determine momentum: The first 3 weeks of a campaign are when serious buyers engage. If pricing aligns with market expectations, enquiry is strong, inspections are active and competitive tension builds early. Overpricing during this window can significantly reduce buyer interest and weaken negotiating strength over time.

• Pricing is positioning, not prediction: The objective is not to “test the market” at an aspirational level. Strategic pricing positions your home within its competitive bracket to maximise exposure, drive urgency and buyer competition.

• Buyer psychology drives outcomes: Buyers assess lifestyle, location, age, aspect, renovation quality, land usability and surrounding 126 COFFS COAST focus

streetscape based on their specific needs and wants, not just bedroom count or land size.

Understanding these emotional drivers is key to pricing and positioning.

performing agent’s role is not to promise the highest possible figure, it is to deliver the strongest achievable result. Transparent, evidence-based guidance ensures sellers enter the market with confidence and clarity.

• Comparable sales require interpretation: Data alone is not enough. Timing of sale, As the Coffs Coast continues to attract lifestylevendor motivation, driven demand, tight market conditions, stock levels in blue-chip competing stock and pockets and consistent presentation quality As the Coffs buyer enquiry means all influence achieved Coast continues pricing precision is more prices. Accurate pricing to attract lifestyleimportant than ever. comes from daily local driven demand, Premium outcomes are engagement, not simply tight stock levels in not accidental, they are reviewing online results. blue-chip pockets engineered through and consistent buyer • Competition positioning, presentation enquiry means pricing creates premium and negotiation precision is more results: Properties expertise. Whether important than ever. priced strategically upsizing, downsizing often achieve stronger or investing, strategic final sale prices than pricing advice remains those launched too one of the most powerful tools in achieving an high because strong enquiry generates multiple outstanding result. inspections and negotiation leverage.

• Tailored strategy matters: Whether using a firm asking price or structured price range, the method must reflect current demand, suburb trends and buyer depth. There is no one-size-fitsall formula.

• Honest advice protects value: A high-

If you would like a confidential appraisal and clear, data-driven guidance on where your property sits in today’s market, my professional team and myself are always available to assist.

Wishing you continued success in your property journey in 2026.

Thinking of Selling?

Think Luke Wenban.

Luke is a sales agent with Stone Coffs Harbour, known for his customer-first approach, clear communication and strong negotiation skills that help deliver standout sale prices. With over 20 years’ experience across the Coffs Coast, he’s built a reputation for being professional, honest and highly motivated, consistently going above and beyond for his clients. Born and bred locally, Luke and his family have strong ties to the Coffs social and sporting community.

Experience the Stone difference for yourself today.

Luke Wenban

Licensed Real Estate Agent 0418 165 979 COFFS COAST focus 111

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. E34912.

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