Coffs Coast Focus i39 by Focus

Feature Story

COFFS COAST

The Toads

December 2013// issue 39

• ba r on th e Je tt y st ri p •

editor's note.

focus C O F F S C OA S T

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts. EDITOR: Melly Dee melly@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Nicci Seccombe nicole@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery annalise@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITORS: Reg Brookhouse / Jo Atkins reg@focusmag.com.au jo@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2011 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

editor.

from the

Melly Dee.

Welcome to the December issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

e’ve made it! Our last edition for 2013. I’m like an emotional parent sending their youngest child off for their first day of school – I’m just so proud of the hard work of both Sam Dawson and Nicci Seccombe this year. I am blessed to have such a dedicated team surrounding me. Nicci and Sam are wonderful women, they have a true passion for all things FOCUS, they have a genuine interest in business owners, and they love the people who make up this fabulous community. We have had a great year. Together we have grown the magazine from 64 pages to over 100. This growth wouldn’t be possible without these great girls and

of course, the support of each person we are in contact with. Whether you are a business owner who advertises, a contributor or a dedicated reader, we couldn’t have done it without you. So, merry Christmas, have a safe New Year, and we’ll see you on the other side. ON THE COVER Coffs Coast local press, radio and now TV journalist, Claire Simmonds from Clairity Public Relations brings us a double page spread interview with Tony and David, owners and brains behind Element Bar. That’s right, Element Bar has finally opened! Months in the making, the old Coopers Surf Store on the Jetty Strip has finally been transformed. Take a walk inside, and you’d think you were in a New York hot spot!

IN THIS ISSUE Another whopper! Can’t miss the features, including our Christmas gift guide by Park Beach Plaza and our Heart cal of the City feature, showcasing local n businesses in our CBD. There are an h us: array of locals sharing their life with lace Lilah Deguitre has taken out first place in Sydney’s International Makeup Artist n Trade Show and Shelley and Nathan from Niche Design and Build have a brand new display home – check out their huge feature! EDITOR’S PHOTO This photo was taken by Leah Moore at Gleniffer Road, Bonville. www.leahmoore.com.au FINAL SAY Melly Dee – Editor Don’t worry; everything is going to be melly@focusmag.com.au amazing! Twitter: @le_mellydee

coffs coast focus 3

10.

inside this

Fi Poole. Most of us are still snuggled into our pillows at 6am when the local ABC airwaves burst into life. But despite the early hour, our local ‘aunty’ Fi Poole is bright, bubbly and ready to connect with her listeners.

Issue 39 - December 2013

Di Leach.

usual suspects.

26.

Di Leach is true inspiration to those wanting to fulfil their personal goals! A relative new competitor, in 2011 she and her crew placed first in their division in the Pittwater to Coffs. Di also developed and runs her own successful bookkeeping business and believes that you should never give up on your dreams ...

the

7. what’s on for December 30. eat featuring local restaurants 70. star guide with Terri

74. social scene with Carole Beros 79. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast

No matter where you are in the world,, read Focus for free online every month th @

72.

Lilah Deguitre. A young Coffs Harbour woman took first place in the International Makeup Artist Trade Show in Sydney. At the mere age of 26, already Lilah Deguitre has had some very exciting events occur in her career as a professional makeup artist.

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www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

NORTH SAPP H I

H PACIFIC

North Saphire

GAUDRO

NS RD

SPLIT SOLITA RY R

focusinterview. Scott Carle Photography

The Toads is a children’s band that was birthed in a pub. Lead singer Adrian Penny is an accomplished singer songwriter and musician who enlisted the help from his friends and family to launch the local band ...

punchy production, now in its 10th season. Its theme is saving water at school and at home … which allows for some romance and a lot of toilet humour – Adrian’s specialty. The Toads love, love, love Christmas Carols. One year we even persuaded our guitarist to jump out of a plane wearing a Santa outfit before joining us on stage ... Santa, as you’ve never seen him before, performing a searing guitar solo. Whether it’s a solo performance or a large scale musical production, one thing remains unchanged ... unbridled enthusiasm and energy!

begin to soundcheck, only to realise that this too was all part of the show. The concerts were jam packed with children, bursting with anticipation but struggling to move. It’s the closest we’ve ever come to feeling like the ‘Beatles’… or should I say, The Wiggles! The locals who couldn’t get into the room climbed to the roof or hung through a window. The language barrier was a constant challenge, as were the electric shocks via any piece of equipment made of metal. You might wonder, “How did it go?” Our answer, “Above expectation and beyond our wildest imagination”.

The Bekaa Valley in Lebanon Do the Toads travel? Have they been was pretty wild. We When touring overseas? Tell played at one enormous the outback, us about your refugee village on a l we fly in a smal trips to outback sewer …so big, it even e. In eight seater plan e Australia and had a Prince. I can wer Birdsville there beyond. Major nd remember the crowd e ba more of us in th the highlights include in surging forward to than there were Lebanon, Turkey, get a look at this weird !” ol ho sc India and remote visiting band rocking it outback Australia. up in mad animal jungle On each tour we have outfits. The Prince and his partnered with a charity helpers had whippy little sticks or church organisation: an to keep the crowd at a comfortable unforgettable opportunity to visit distance. ... a new and effective means of orphanages and schools away from the crowd control. usual tourist routes. I still get emotional sometimes thinking about We generally pack the tour full, performing 3 the people … especially the Armenian school, and sometimes 4 shows a day, allowing time where the kids had never seen a live band to spend with the kids. before. It was kindy to high school, and they When touring the outback, we fly in a small just appreciated everything. Very sobering eight seater plane. In Birdsville there were indeed. more of us in the band than there were in the Whats on the agenda for The Toads this school! December? A Toad invasion. There’s the 2013 Have you tackled any unusual or Special Children’s Christmas Party tour. From demanding environments? Our adventures Mackay to Cairns, Newcastle to Rockhampton abroad have proven the most challenging. and finishing in Darwin and Coffs … love I recall travelling into villages in India with ‘em! Byron Bay Carols 13 Dec, Woolgoolga throngs of poverty stricken people. Carols by the Sea 14 December, roving at We arrived in tuk tuks weighed down with Toormina Gardens and Christmas Day at Opal band equipment. Dozens of curious local Cove Resort. There are even a few preschool ‘roadies’ escorted us into tiny buildings. graduations in the mix.

“

hen did the Toads form, and who makes up the band? While playing covers at a local bar, Adrian’s passion for children’s music inevitably rose to the surface. Once the audience were on the dance floor, he’d trial his latest children’s songs like Frogs in the Swamp and other favourites like Green Undies. It always helped if there was a certain level of inebriation.

Buffo the Toad, Buzzbee the Bee, Ernie the Emu and Jolly Me the Kangaroo. Who are these ‘Toads’ we keep hearing about, that are so sought after on the Coffs Coast? A high energy interactive children’s band. Its focus is creating shows that captivate a child’s imagination. So, expect to see loads of audience participation, live music with bouncy and infectious original songs, zany and colourful mascots and children bubbling with excitement.

As the idea grew, Adrian enlisted the help of his family and friends to launch the new enterprise. Brother-in-law and bass player Dean Cougle (AKA Captain Cranky) joined friend and cranking guitarist Paul Grant, drum meister Stewart Chapman and singer Janelle Garnett. Since then, many others have become a vital part of the team, too many to name.

What are the shows like? What can people expect to see and hear? It depends on what show you come to see … (laughs). Our latest production is the focus of a live DVD currently in production. Toadally Reggae featured a whopping 11 piece band and a ‘REAL Jamaican’. The performance was filmed and recorded live with 13 cameras at LifeHouse church in front of a packed house. The DVD is due for release in December.

Loading on the charm and affection, Adrian then persuaded his mum, Coral, to take up needle and thread to create life size mascots

Adrian was living the dream last month performing ‘Waterwise’ educational shows in 21 Mid North Coast Schools. It’s a slick and

6 coffs coast focus.

After battling clouds of mozzies, we would

http://www.thetoads.com.au

A R O U N D

T H E

R E G I O N

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D E C E M B E R

2 0 1 3

Bronwyn Brenton

Bonville’s Men’s Tiger Tee Challenge Bronwyn Brenton

Teresa resa Cowle Cowley ey

Art Exhibition Bronwyn Brenton & Teresa Cowley Bronwyn Brenton and Teresa Cristina Cowley invite you to their exhibition at the Federal Hotel, Bellingen, on 8 December at 5pm. Where Federal Hotel Bellingen. Date Sunday 8 Dec; 5pm. Contact 0400 500 339.

The event sees players take on the challenging Bonville layout from the back markers. Special rates apply for all Mid North Coast Golf Club Members, so call the Bonville Pro Shop on 6653 4544 to book in for this exciting event. When Friday 20 December.

DEC. Slice Ice Show

1 Made with Love Markets Special Christmas market. Over 100 stalls; entry is FREE! When Sunday 1 December, from 9am - 2pm. Where C.ex Coffs.

Vans Warped Tour 2013 VANS WARPED TOUR IS COMING TO AUSTRALIA … NEED WE SAY ANY MORE! When Saturday 30 November. Where Coffs Harbour Showground. Tickets on sale from www.vanswarpedtouraustralia.com

PRESENTED BY COLOR ICE AUSTRALIA

12 huge shows, with the opening performance being staged on Thursday 19 December and then running through until Sunday 22 December. Creators working on elements of the Opening Ceremony of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, production company 'Color-Ice', have recently announced their internationally acclaimed 'SLICE Ice Show' will be entertaining audiences in Coffs Harbour, hosted at The Big Banana. When Thursday, 19 December - Sunday, 22 December. Tickets general admission $35; children $25pp.

Tickets are now on sale and available at: www.ticketoronline.com/coloriceaustralia

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coffs coast focus 7

focusinterview.

Celebrating 30 years of operation, Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium has appointed an Artistic Director who is whistling a beautiful tune …

Trish O'Brien

O’BRIEN n its 30 years of operation, the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium has been through a huge transformation. Starting out in a small cottage in Earl St, the Con solidified its presence as a provider of musical education with a move to larger premises at Homebase in 2003. In 2010 the Con was able to purchase a magnificent permanent presence at the Bray Street Cinema complex and gives 350 - 400 local students high quality musical education and opportunities in the music world. In mid-2013 David Schama was appointed as General Manager to lead the future business direction of the Conservatorium. David comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the business sector, along with a great love of music and is passionate about taking the Conservatorium into the next stage of growth. The next exciting phase comes with the appointment of Trish O’Brien as Artistic Director. This role has been created to lead the musical, artistic and creative future of one of Coffs Harbour’s most essential cultural assets, and we are very excited about this new era for the Coffs Con. Trish O’Brien has led a highly successful career as a cellist and Artistic Director in the professional music industry. Born and raised in Tasmania during one of the most exciting periods of music education in Australia, Trish has a deep understanding of what it takes to build a vibrant conservatorium that helps create a cultural soul within the community. Trish carries with her a long list of achievements. She was a Principal with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, concerto soloist and recording artist for the ABC and 2MBS FM and performed with many

8 coffs coast focus.

high profile Australian ensembles, including the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Tasmanian Chamber Players and Australian String Quartet. With the Sydney Symphony she toured many parts of the world and has toured Australia several times as a soloist and chamber musician for major arts councils, Musica Viva and music festivals. She has corners. Where excited young recorded commercially musicians are able to access for the ABC & 2MBS u yo e lik the best teachers and be ld I wou and is regularly e ac pl a e in ag encouraged to find their im to featured on ABC safe el fe le op creative souls through pe re whe Classic FM. She d where music. Where achieveand nurtured an held the position e outside ment is measured by the the worries of th to r in of Artistic Director world disappea heart and openly encour.” of the Camden beautiful sounds aged by caring guides. It’s Haven Music Festival a gathering place where for 5 years, was Visitmoments in time are shared ing Artist for the New by people from all walks of life, England Conservatorium linked by a love of music. Where of Music, and has conducted global learning is achievable and there hundreds of master-classes throughout are no true limitations. This is where I would Australia. She has successfully toured several like to see the Coffs Con over the coming of her own productions as Artistic Director years, and I am delighted to have been invited and performer throughout Australia under the to help make this dream a reality for the Coffs auspices of the Australia Council and Playing Coast community. Australia. Participation in music is well documented as In collaboration with the board, staff and being hugely beneficial in terms of academic tutors at the Con, Trish O’Brien and David outcome, skills development, concentration, Schama will be leading the Conservatorium brain development, focus, peer support and into new and exciting territory for 2014 and team playing. Music is used as a major form beyond. of therapy for all manner of illnesses and disA message from the Artistic Director: abilities at any age, during times of stress and to help lower the heart rate during times of “I would like you to imagine a place where stress. It’s therefore very important to me that people feel safe and nurtured and where the music education and participation in music is worries of the outside world disappear into beautiful sounds. Where the lights shine warm- able to establish a much higher presence in the wider community in the form of a broad range ly and threads of music can be heard from all

“

of educational and performance opportunities for people from all walks of life. In the next year I will be focusing on discovering and supporting the strengths of Coffs Harbour’s musical life and working on filling gaps and expanding our educational and performance arena to provide an enviable music life for our community. I am very fortunate and humbled to have been offered support by some of my interstate colleagues, who are already excited about collaborating on some major projects that our students and community will be extremely lucky to be part of. Working with the GM and conservatorium staff, I will be introducing a strong multi-level performance and educational program designed to offer inspiration and opportunities for all students, teachers and ensembles at the conservatorium. Flagship ensembles and choirs will be formed and we will be working with schools to offer a high quality music experience for all students. We have many hidden talents in this area that I would like to support, nurture and bring together to give them opportunities that music students usually only have in major cities. It’s going to be a very exciting time for all students and music lovers!” Regional Conservatorium, Cnr. Bray Street and Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour. 6652 1592.

Feature interview with Fran Stephenson

focusinterview.

Most of us are still snuggled into our pillows at 6am when the local ABC airwaves burst into life. But despite the early hour, our local ‘aunty’ FI POOLE is bright, bubbly and ready to connect with her listeners. Her programme is like having breakfast with your best friend … one who knows all the good goss and is up with the latest music.

FI POOLE

Fran Stephenson interviews the interviewer and gets to know the person behind the voice.

ow did your career in radio start? When I was a kid, my next door neighbour and I used to spend hours underneath his piano making pretend radio shows. We'd record our voices onto my sister’s pink tape deck. James would forward and back announce songs like Billy-Jean and Funky Town, and I'd read the weather. Twenty years later, I had a show on Sydney music station FBI 94.5 FM, and I I'm got to introduce the music. Was it a lifestyle choice or your current position with the ABC that brought you to the area? I grew up in Sydney, moved to Byron for a few years where I was a youth worker, then back to the city to study radio and work at ABC 702 Sydney, producing Afternoons.

from producing to presenting. I had to go for it. So I moved here for work, clueless to how lucky I was to be moving to such a beautiful spot. As Macca would say, "Why do you live where you live?" For years, I thought the move to Coffs Coast was just a temporary thing, and after a year or two I'd try to get a job in a metro station. Now I don't want to move back and give up what we have here.

pretty proud to be of one of the voices al the A BC . E dito ri d independence an st integrity; you ju can't beat that .”

“

Bellingen is our home. We live on a 15 acre property, in a 100 year old cottage; it has a creek running through it, a view of the mountains and the Bellinger River just across the road.

My husband, Pete (whom I met in Byron) had lived in Bellingen during his twenties and had ties to Global Carnival. When his good mate John Richards passed away, he was asked to become one of the Directors and take over the festival production.

My son, Hunter, starts school next year, Oscar loves his preschool and Pete is dreaming up plans for a new music festival for the region. I've even convinced my mum and dad to make the move from Sydney. So now that I have family and a career here, I just couldn't leave. Nor would I want to, because the city life isn't for me anymore. Swimming in the Bellinger, catching Jewies at Mylestom, camping at Red Rock; that's where it's at.

At the same time a job was going at ABC Coffs Coast, and it was a great chance for me to move

Despite the early start, you’re up-to-the-minute with what’s happening … how do you source

10 coffs coast focus.

stories so quickly? I'm in the office by 5.30am and "bang"! I'm like a machine, checking emails, news websites, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram ... trying to find the things to interest our listeners. Often I'll take a state or national issue and find the Coffs angle in it, but the best stories are the ones our listeners tell us. When they call or text, that’s radio gold. When I get off air I head to my favourite café, read the papers and chat with locals. There's a real little scene in the CBD around 8am, especially on Thursdays when the market is on; I always get a good story there. A demanding job, early starts, long daily drives plus a husband and two young boys, yet there’s still time for fun. Would you say you’ve have mastered the work/life balance? I'm starting to get it right now, but in 2012 the work/life pressures were hard. I had anxiety about how I was going to manage everything. At that time I was presenting NSW Afternoons, so I'd leave early in the morning and get home after dark. I missed my boys, I wasn't getting much natural light, and I just couldn't switch off. In 2013, I started back on the Brekkie shift, and I've been much happier. The advantage of the early shift is that I can be home by the afternoon, go for a swim, play with my boys, make them dinner, and put them to bed. The early shift lets me have a career and be a hands-on mum. I'm so glad I don't have to sacrifice one for the other.

focusinterview.

On the weekends I have a media detox; I don't get online or even read the paper. Instead, I go adventuring ... head off to a new market, check out a gig, find a new fishing spot or trawl through the op shops. If I don't have some fun on the weekend, you'll be hearing about it on Monday morning. What do you want your listeners to get from your programme? If you tune in, you'll hear your community. You'll hear local people talking about a whole range of things from new projects through to great achievements. Recently during one week, I spoke with a 92 year old woman from the Macleay Valley about posing nude for a charity calendar; I spoke about the proposal to allow recreational vehicles to overnight at the Jetty; canvassed the possibility of getting an artificial surf reef at North Wall and helped Coramba Public School celebrate 125 years of educating kids.

My philosophy… you can wear anything as long es as your sunglass ur yo d an od go are .” hand bag is nice

“

So I guess each morning our listeners get engaged in what's happening locally. I also like to introduce them to lots of good new music. You interview many high profile people: what was your most memorable or disastrous interview? I've interviewed loads of musicians from Goyte through to PJ Harvey, but my favourite all time interviewee is Kamahl. He's just so smooth and his story is brilliant; a young Tamil teenage immigrant impresses Rupert Murdoch, and the rest is history (as they say). Plus, he's really nice. Remember that big flood back in 2009? I had to be flown home in a helicopter, and Kamahl called just to make sure the kids and I were OK. Pete answered and couldn't believe it. After that, I'm his biggest fan. The ABC is the lifeblood of many Australians. What’s it like to be part of such respected organisation? Is there ongoing review and training? Sure is. Earlier this year I was in ABC Head Office in Ultimo for a 'creating better content' course. Leigh Sales from 7.30 gave us a session on interviewing; I sat in the producer's booth for Fran Kelly's Radio National Breakfast program, and I was a part of the studio audience for Q&A. Best training ever. I'm pretty proud to be one of the voices of the ABC. Editorial independence and integrity; you just can't beat that. Who most inspires you in the media? My colleague, Helen Merkell, is a great source of inspiration to me. She's the Head of News for the Mid North Coast and started the office here in Coffs. She's got a great news sense, an endless amount of energy and a switched-on attitude to life. If it wasn't for her, our bureau would never have grown into what it is now. I'm also inspired by high achieving mummas in the media; Annabel Crabb, Leigh Sales and Virginia Triloi are all great journalists and entertainers. Hopefully I'm heading in the same direction. Is there a hidden passion that helps define Fi Poole? Well … I do have a serious passion. I don’t know whether it’s an obsession as yet, but I have to admit I’m an op shop stalker. Since I was young, I’ve always liked old things with character, from retro clothes, furniture to curtains. Life is about giving and receiving: in our house everything we don’t use goes to an op shop and in turn, I love taking time out to find something wonderful for myself and my family. That way, there’s minimal impact on the environment. My philosophy is that you can wear anything as long as your sunglasses are good and your handbag is nice. When I’m op shopping, I know there is a bargain there somewhere and it’s my job to find it – and fast, before someone else grabs it! How do you do the early starts? Eight hours sleep and coffee … lots and lots of coffee! Thanks Fi. coffs coast focus 11

with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s • OF THE MONTH •

AT ’ S I N

Whether you follow the story that the festive swine comes ffrom Germanic origins from pagan days, as a tribute to Freya, the goddess of harvest and fertility; or the stories of Catholic origin where it was used to test true conversion from Judaism over the holy period, the Christmas ham has become an integral part of the holiday period.

by Hayden Meyers at element bar

In Season

Perfect for summer is this refreshing and tangy cocktail at element bar on Coffs Harbour Jetty strip. Hayden Meyers is both assistant manager and bar manager of the new element bar and shares the recipe:

Apple Sour • 30 ml Sour Apple Pucker liqueur • 15 ml Kettle One vodka • 30 ml lemon juice • 15 ml sugar syrup Top up with lemon soda and serve over ice. Garnish with a lime wheel and pineapple leaf.

This multifaceted portion of beast will be getting glazed, sliced, caramelised and roasted right around the world. Then being served up to families everywhere. For myself, growing up in tropical Queesnland, the ham was always a cold affair. I still ensure every Christmas I have some cold ham, potato salad and beetroot ready, because for me nothing says Christmas feast like a sandwich crammed with those three simple ingredients. But it's the after math of ham leftover recipes that always get me excited. Ham hash-cakes, fritters and caramelised ham salads all start springing out of the wood work and making their way to our tables. Though no one would contest that Christmas ham always seems to make the best ham cheese and toasted sandwiches.

focusinterview.

meet a

local.

To continue reading about unique ingredients, including a few useful tips and recipes, visit my blog on the Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar website: www.zuluscoffs.com

Meet Kate Bennett from Bennett Bookkeeping

ou're relatively new to town. What brings you to Coffs Coast, and where have you moved from? I am from Armidale in the New England. I came to Sawtell, to house sit for my sister who has retired from working as a veterinary surgeon in the Coffs Coast region and now travels periodically with her husband. The Coffs Coast is stunning. I have fallen in love with the area and have bought a place here. Establishing good friendships, a study program, building my business, working with two community groups and enjoying the many beaches and cycling tracks here, makes for a busy and happy life. What is your business? Do you only service clients in New England? My business is called Bennett Bookkeeping Basic and Beyond. I provide a top quality bookkeeping service and have done so most of my adult life. Although I have a well established clientele in the New England, I am focusing on bringing my expertise to the Coffs Coast. What services do you offer? My portfolio to date includes all the aspects of bookkeeping such as managing debtors, creditors, payroll, all financial reconciliations, preparation and lodgement of the Business Activity Statement, budgeting, liaison with 12 coffs coast focus.

relevant third parties, training/teaching and writing policy and procedures. It is a personalised and confidential service. What types of businesses do you service? I provide services to all types of businesses, from sole traders to large companies. I work in the tertiary, secondary and primary sectors. What's the best thing about being in your line of work? The main reward is reducing my clients' stress, knowing their books are in order. This allows them concentrate on their core business issues. It also assists them to meet their taxation obligations and be proactive with their business decisions. What are you looking forward to the most about bringing your business to the Coffs Coast? Aside from working and living in this beautiful place, I am looking forward to helping local businesses achieve their business goals. In your professional opinion, what is a good New Year’s resolution one should make when managing one's accounts and finances? If you have been struggling with your financial record keeping in 2013, then value your time and make the paper trail mine … call Kate Bennett for an obligation free assessment at Bennett Bookkeeping Basic and Beyond on 0427 712 673.

Pasfields Restaurant The all new Pasfields Restaurant at Paradise Palms Resort now offers the complete beautiful and affordable wedding package from 10 to 300 guests. stunning outdoor wedding setting

buffet weddings up to 80 guests, all sizes of

under the big oak tree with

weddings up to 300 can be catered for with

fountain trickling in the pond, the

a personal touch of a privately owned and

iintimate light and warm wedding

managed venue.

chapel with leadlight windows or a smaller

Incorporating beautiful centrepieces, head

occasion on the deck at Pasfields are ceremony

table backdrops and stunning panoramic

options (remembering the chapel is always

scenery and beautiful gardens, Pasfields offer a

there should the Coffs Harbour rains hit).

truly complete package with the added bonus

With various private areas with floor to ceiling

of a variety of accommodation options to suit

chiffon for smaller weddings or the entire

all budgets. Book an inspection soon, and you

stunningly renovated restaurant and/or deck

will be impressed.

for larger weddings, or for a truly unique

www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

reception the chapel can cater for cocktail or

Phone 6653 7710

coffs coast focus 13

focusinterview.

FESTIVAL

Have you ever sat in a restaurant in

simon chadil

Robin Croft

Coffs Harbour Racing Club

Savouries with a Twist

a quandary, looking at the menu? There are at least 3-4 dishes you would love to try ... which do you choose? Well, visitors to Tastes of the Coffs Coast won't have to face this dilemma, as tasting-size plates will be on offer from the participating restaurants and caterers at this exciting new event.

lavours will range through Modern Australian to Middle Eastern and Asian flavours; there will be surely something to tempt every tastebud. With a cold beverage, great food, live music from The Romaniacs and a million dollar view of the Harbour, what more could anyone possibly need! Gates open at 5.30pm nightly and it is highly recommended that visitors pre-purchase their tickets from The Coffs Harbour Yacht Club, to avoid disappointment. SIMON CHADIL You're not only a chef; what is your other role? I am the Events Manager and Licensee – I coordinate function sales, marketing, bar operations, running events, sponsorships, fundraising, staff HR and rostering. What do you love about cooking at Race Club? I’ve been a chef over 35 years, so to continue creating dishes as well as 'rolling up my sleeves' and cooking for the bigger events allows me to keep my passion for food alive. I love exploring new ideas to cater for modern, healthy tastes. The Club targets budget conscious groups, which adds a dimension to creating menus, as our guests still have high expectations in quality and presentation. If today was your last day, what would you cook, and who would you dine with? Wow – I guess a five course menu of diverse meats such as local prawns, salmon, kangaroo, native fruits and Aussie cheese. I’d dine with my closest friends and family – but if allowed historical figures, then I’d love to hear the dinner conversation of great minority leaders such as Jesus Christ, Buddha, Ghandi, Martin Luther King and John Lennon. What are you looking forward to the most about Festival of Sails? Showcasing some of our more interesting menu items to not just locals, but also visitors to our region. Coffs Harbour Racing Club. Phone (02) 6652 1488 Website www.coffsracingclub.com.au 14

coffs coast focus.

tony gill

chris freeman

eddie Delves

Novotel Pacific Bay

Spare Chef Catering

Ed's Tucker Box

ROBIN CROFT Tell us about your business, Savouries with a Twist? Savouries With a Twist is all about GOOD FOOD, cooking with fresh produce and making the most of the array of meat, fruits and vegetables in their natural season. Specialising in cocktail parties, weddings and corporate functions, we are passionate about food and offering personalised service. Our menus include a selection of delectable vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free choices. What was your earlier career? My working life began in the fashion industry followed by 15 years in banking. In between those years, there was a great deal of overseas travel. When and how was your business born? For as long as I can remember, cooking and entertaining were my passions. Growing up in multicultural Sydney with every style of food on my doorstep gave me the chance to sample tastes of the world. As soon as I could afford to travel, I took the opportunity to experience the 'real tastes of Europe', which took my breath away. In 1998 I moved to the Coffs Coast to finally indulge my dreams by opening a catering business. What should we get excited about for Festival of Sail? The Festival of Sail is the ultimate package offer for locals and visitors to enjoy incredible food and entertainment for young and old. Savouries With a Twist. Phone 6665 4254 Mobile 0438 487 344 Email info@savourieswithatwist.com.au Website www.savourieswithatwist.com.au TONY GILL What is your role at Charlie's Bar? Executive Chef; I look after the kitchen staff, control all menus and requests rosters and anything to do with food at the resort. When did you start chefing? Started work in kitchens at 11 years of age, washing up and basic salad prep to make money to go to Switzerland skiing each year. I then got work with P&O on a cruise liner for four years from 16 to 20.

I moved to Sydney and worked in many hotels and restaurants. After that I moved to the Gold Coast then Coffs Harbour, where I started my own restaurant for the next nine years. I came to Pacific Bay Resort ... now 17 years ago! What do you love about working on the Coffs Coast? The area around us and the local produce. What's your favourite thing on the menu? I love the combo entrees and the desserts! How did you become involved with Festival of Sail? Are you excited? Grimmo came and told us about it and asked if we were interested in participating it the event. Thought it was a great idea and would be good for our chefs to work outside with the guests. Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort. Cnr Pacific Highway & Bay Drive. Phone 6659 7000 CHRIS FREEMAN What is Spare Chef? We are local caterers Chris and Debbie Freeman of Spare Chef Catering fame and have been providing exceptional service to corporate and private clients for 23 years. Think of us as a mobile restaurant in the comfort of your own home or a venue of your choice. Our optional liquor licence gives added convenience at competitive prices. Many of our customers return to us because we’re 'tried and true', and new clients love our versatility. What types of functions do you cater? We offer a large range of menu styles, including buffets, dinners, cocktail parties, banquets, BBQs, DIY and our popular degustation dinners for that special occasion. Our highly experienced team of chefs love a new challenge, and we are more than happy to personalise a menu of your choice. Corporate clients can impress their guests with Gourmet breakfasts, lunches and after work functions – delivered hot or cold, or onsite at the Norm Jordan Conference Centre, Coffs Showgrounds. Do you try to buy local? What is your role

at Festival of Sail? Keeping up with current trends and sourcing local produce has been a contributing factor in our business longevity, so at the Festival of Sail we will be showcasing local skills along with freshly grown produce from our area, tastefully presented at affordable prices. Bon appetite! Spare Chef Catering Phone 6651 7121 Mobile 0419 478 623 Email info@sparechef.com.au Website www.sparechef.com.au EDDIE AND LIZ What is Ed's Tucker Box? Ed’s Tucker Box is a husband and wife team who are extremely passionate about good food and produce. Our track record in producing and serving top quality food is second to none. Chef Eddie Delves has over 40 years’ experience working in executive chef positions for a range of hospitality providers and his own restaurants. Ed’s Tucker Box is on the Mid North Coast of NSW and travels to markets, festivals and shows producing high quality and good value local tucker. Ed’s produce is local and seasonal to the event – Ed’s Tucker Box is attending. Chef Ed can also tailor his menu to specific events to ensure he is offering a different product to that of his competitors, one he know they’ll love and enjoy. Why are you so passionate about fresh local food? We like to showcase what our local area is capable of producing and we're proud of our healthy local products. Who are the brains behind your business? Chef Ed and his supportive wife, Liz. What is your involvement with Festival of Sail? What are you looking forward to the most? Ed’s Tucker Box will be displaying some of our local produce, and we look forward to participating and showcasing our products in the festival and satisfying the taste buds of our locals and visitors to the area. Ed’s Tucker Box Phone 6658 3545 Mobile 0414 773 003

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COFFS COAST

HEALTHY

CANTEEN AWARDS

Santa's Arriving Coffs Harbour Regional Airport is on alert for a Very Important Polar Person (VIPP) who is due to arrive in the city on Thursday, December 5, shortly before he makes a special appearance in the city centre at 5pm.

Coffs Coast Healthy Canteen Awards with Nicki Kerr, Health Promotion Officer, Healthy Communities at Mid North Coast Health District.

hat is your involvement? I work in Health Promotion at the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD) on the Live Life Well @ School program, which supports schools to implement a whole school approach to healthy eating and physical activity. This includes nurturing children’s learning about good nutrition and physical activity and creating an environment that supports good health and nutrition at school. So naturally the school canteen is a great place to encourage healthy eating at school. How are the children reacting? Are they complaining that they miss sausage rolls? You might think that they would complain, but when the healthier options are introduced and the children are engaged in learning about good food, in some cases growing it themselves in their school garden or designing the recipe, the majority of kids will choose it for themselves. Plus, these options are popular with the teaching staff, so it’s great for canteen profits and adds positive role modelling of healthy eating to students. What are the 'Canteen Awards?' There’s a great misconception that ‘healthy’ foods don’t sell to children, yet we have many wonderful school canteen initiatives that are profitable and providing nutritious food made from local produce. So Coffs Harbour City Council, Coffs Coast Growers Market, the MNCLHD and The Good Guys Coffs Harbour joined forces to recognise and reward the role of the school canteens by setting up the Coffs Coast Healthy Canteen Awards. The aim of the Award was to promote and support them to fulfil their 'Big Idea' for their canteen. Who won? Why did they win? Sawtell Public School won the Primary School 16 coffs coast focus.

award. Their canteen is integral to creating and supporting a healthy food environment at school, linking with the classroom activities and school garden. They plan to set up a kitchen space where students, local chefs and community members can come to run cooking classes to support their educational programs. Woolgoolga High School was the winning high school, with plans to develop several strategies to market fresh, local products to their students which will include engaging the students in developing and submitting their recipes to go on the menu. Bonus Prize of a cooking session with Celebrity Chef Joel from Zulu’s Restaurant went to William Bayldon Public School to encourage and promote eating a healthy breakfast before school to their students. What do they win? The two winning schools receive the kudos of being the inaugural award winners, plus $1,000 to spend at The Good Guys in Coffs Harbour plus $500 cash from the Coffs Harbour Growers Market. Why should my school get involved? All schools teach their students about good nutrition as part of the curriculum, so it makes sense that offering nutritious foods through the school canteen is a great opportunity to reinforce these messages and introduce exciting new foods to students. Plus, we know that good nutrition assists children’s learning, growth and development. Best of all, linking the canteen with school activities is a wonderful way for parents to support their school and their child’s learning, whilst making more money, as many parents who want their children to eat well will be more likely to use this service.

“We’ve been told to look out for a very unusual aircraft – sort of sleigh-shaped and reindeerpowered. Also, a large pilot in a red suit who goes by the name of Santa,” said Jan Rooney, Council’s City Centre Marketing Coordinator. “He really is a VIPP, so we’re working hard to make sure everything’s ready for him. Everyone at Council assures me they’ve been very good all year, so they’re very excited.” Once Santa has ‘landed’ at the airport, he and his reindeers will make their way to Harbour

Drive in the city centre to meet all his fans. Children will have the chance to have their photo taken with Santa’s live reindeer and have a close-up chat with Santa in Coffs Central from 5.30pm until 7pm. Santa will then light up the city centre Christmas tree at 7pm for everyone to enjoy. “This event is always a huge success and a great community event. We are privileged to have Santa here with his reindeer at such a busy time of year and thank him for taking the time to visit all the children of Coffs Harbour,” said Jan. Anyone who doesn’t get to meet Santa’s reindeer on Thursday can have a second chance, as they will be in the City Centre again on Friday, December 6, from 10am - 4pm.

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www.theoldbutterfactory.com.au coffs coast focus 17

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Story by Claire Simmonds, Clairity Public Relations

CRACKLING KLING ergy, with energy, ky and the funky eclecticc decor ew of the new elementt bar on the Jetty omises strip promises sion to an occasion ber. remember.

bar on the Jetty strip hat may surprise many is the superb quality of the food on offer in Coffs Harbour’s latest entertainment venue, housed in the original Cooper’s Surf shop on Harbour Drive. Defining element bar is not easy. The welltravelled may recognise an upmarket urban brasserie, flavoured with the casual friendliness of coastal living, but the exquisite food lifts the venue to another rth We’ve got the ea level. al

“

of the origin of the bricks, the metal e red fir e th s, am steel be e water highlights and th l al w e rippled featur There’s r. ba e opposite th of timber also the contrast the new, d and steel, old an fined.” industrial and re

“The food is just mind-blowing – taste, presentation and served with your choice of more than 100 labels of the best wines – many not seen before on the Coffs Coast,” said coowner Tony Haslam.

“There’s certainly a large gap in the local market for social dining and a social bar, without being in a

18 coffs coast focus.

pub, where you have pokies and races or in a registered club with raffles and bingo,” Tony said. “At element bar, there’s no white tablecloths on tables tucked into corners where you never see anyone you know – here it’s social dining with a funky and sophisticated music mix,” he said. No stranger to the area, Tony first brought his extensive international hospitality skills to Coffs Harbour to revive the Greenhouse Tavern, after the venue fell on hard times in 1996. Building the business into the popular family and entertainment venue it is today included attracting acts such as Grinspoon, Super Jesus and the Screaming Jets, before Tony and his family sold in 2006. After buying the building and taking on this project in late 2012, Tony, his co-owner David Stachan, a developer and business investor, with project manager Andy Hall, worked to re-design original plans, including two more floors fully approved for later construction. In their hands-on owners’ work in demolition and reconstruction, they found a pitched ceiling made from banana packing crate panels, bricks from Sawtell brickworks and

an original timber floor dating back to the Depression era construction in 1937. Tony and his partner, Alicia Vines, were inspired to “mix all the elements” to create new contrasts in the decor. “We’ve got the earth of the original bricks, the metal of the steel beams, the fire red highlights and the water rippled feature wall opposite the bar. There’s also the contrast of timber and steel, old and the new, industrial and refined.” “In the first four days since opening element bar we’ve attracted a thousand followers on Facebook, which shows the massive local demand for a properly licensed, upmarket bar, like you’d find in any city around the world,” Andy Meek said. “Our team of infectiously friendly people are going to have a lot of fun at element bar and so are our customers,” Tony said. Open 7 days from 11am until late, element bar stays up extra late on Friday and Saturday nights, until 2am. For serious fans of their fantastic coffee, cakes, meals and entertainment, element bar is offering membership applications on their website: www.elementbar.com.au

• ba r on th e Je tt y st ri p •

dining. RETURNING to Coffs Coast to run the element bar kitchen is Chef Chris Rea, best known to locals for his work at the gourmet Bentley’s on Elizabeth and executive chef role at Opal Cove Resort. Since leaving the area, Chris has run all the catering at the University of Wollongong, coordinating 1,100 functions a year at the university’s eight food outlets and 15 function rooms. “At element bar, I’m bringing in the flavours of Sydney right now with all the modern food trends, paired with classical French techniques, such as sous vide,” Chris said. “We make everything here from scratch. This means it takes three days to make our beef sauces and we cure our own salmon,” he said. Dried prosciutto shards and sweet potato strips garnish dishes of extraordinary flavour such as the strawberry and snowpea tendril chicken salad and roast kumera salad. “Customer feedback about the dishes has been amazing. Some of my favourites are the Guangdong soft shell crab, seared scallops on pea

puree with wasabi mayo and the Angus OP rib on colcannon mash with Paris butter and blood plumb jus,” said Tony.

The vast wine selection is on display behind a locked wrought iron cellar door rack, created by local sculptor Jeramie Carter.

bar. THE creator of the inspired cocktail menu and curator of a vast collection of premium spirits is Hayden Meyers, who comes to element bar from managing a local hotel.

“We’ve had rum aficionados in here telling us it’s the best rum selection they’ve ever seen,” said coowner David Strachan.

We make everything here is from scratch. Th e re th s ke ta means it beef r ou e ak m to days re all cu e sauces, and w .” on lm our own sa

“

“Everyone is loving the top shelf premium spirits and quality wines,” Hayden said. “I want to see people sitting back after work, enjoying the best cocktails in Coffs Harbour,” he said. Already proving popular are such delights as the traditional Peruvian starter, Pisco Sour and the Pornstar Martini of vanilla vodka, passionfruit liqueur, passionfruit pulp and champagne.

“Rather than a variety of wine regions in our wine list, we’ve gone for quality from specific regions, known for quality varietals – such as Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand or Adelaide Hills. We’ve got reds from the Hunter and Clare valleys, Margaret River, plus a selection from France, Italy including Champagne, Prosecco and some light red styles,” Tony Haslam said.

“We have some wines in the premium category but have mostly focused on well-priced wines offering quality and value – by far the best wine selection at any Coffs Harbour bar,” Tony said.

coffs coast focus

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DavidHouston David Houston from Houston Constructions is not only a successful local builder ... he is a marriage celebrant and now an author of children's books. ow long have you been a builder? I started as an apprentice in my teen years. I got my builders license in the '80s ... I guess you could say most of my life. How long have you been a marriage celebrant and what prompted you to become one? After a year of training, I became a celebrant in 2008. I have been a Justice of the Peace for 24 years, and this was a progression I happily undertook. I get to be with people celebrating the happiest moment of their lives. My first wedding was my son’s, a very proud day. Something you wouldn’t know about being a marriage celebrant is that it takes more time and input than people would think. Preparation and individual attention to the wedding ceremony takes time and is worth the time spent to see the happy result. Tell us about the books you’ve recently written ... what are they about? They are about a small dog called Laughing Gravy who is not afraid to have a go at almost anything, and along the way gets into all sorts of situations. Laughing Gravy has an imaginary friend called Mr. B. Mr. B could perhaps be Laughing Gravy’s conscience, as Laughing Gravy always chooses the right path to take after discussions with Mr. B. There are other characters in the book who become involved in the stories; some are in all three books. Are there more books to come? Yes. After writing the first three, I find little story lines pop into my head. I keep all these for the next adventures. Just watching children at play and listening to them will give ideas. These books would make fantastic 20 coffs coast focus.

children's gifts ... if we're interested in purchasing them, where can we get copies? Books are available as eBooks, hardcover books are available in bookstores or can be ordered online from the website www.laughinggravy.com.au What age are the books aimed at? 3 – 9 years and 50 – 99 years. Grandparents so far love the stories. We find the stories are long enough to actually tell a tale – just right for bedtime reading. How are people responding to your books? Fabulous responses; children love the pictures and happily look at them whilst the book is being read to them. I was told the stories were read to an elderly person in hospital; she was quite amused by the stories and both reader and listener enjoyed the time escaping to the world of Laughing Gravy. Did you deliberately write the stories with a moral? No, but I consider the moral in the stories is subtle. In life we are going through dilemmas with choices to make, just as Laughing Gravy does. I think it’s great for children to get an understanding ... What difficulties did you encounter to get the books published? At the beginning I approached twenty or so publishers and was told that I had to have an agent. All the agents were completely booked. I then decided to self-publish the three books. I could have had the books printed overseas, but I wanted to keep it local. We have had to find and buy ISBN and bar codes, design and present the book as a whole suitable to upload to eBooks and again in hard copy printing, make a web page and Facebook, then create the outlets for the books as well as the approach to publishers and the

marketing. All the many steps along the way have been new to us, and we are learning something almost every day in getting these books to this point. How much local input was there? I can proudly say these books are a product of local talent. They were offset printed in Coffs Harbour by Pepper Print, design was by Mark George of Design Wave, and the illustrations by local Miles Jenkinson. I could not have got the books to this stage without my wife, Helen, helping with the management of the many steps along the way. There is a great sense of pride in producing these books with all local talent. We found there is such a wealth of talented people right here; you just need to ask the right people. Every time I came across a stumbling block, I would reach out and find the person with the skills. There is a good network in Coffs Harbour. What has been your greatest satisfaction? Two, actually ... maybe several. Holding the finished article in my hand was a great moment. Seeing children’s reactions to listening to the stories. Then there is conducting a wedding for which I have written the script so personally suited to the couple, that the groom and bride are emotionally involved and cherish the moment especially. Doing renovations that not only are to the owner's satisfaction but also win regional and state awards. All these keep my life full and rewarding. The bucket list is not getting shorter. Website laughinggravy.com.au Email laughinggravy55@hotmail.com Facebook page Laughing Gravy.

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Sustainable Living Festival A hot and sunny week in November saw the 6th annual Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival leap into life at venues across the Coffs Coast.

he Festival is a community event that offers opportunities for learning about sustainable living in a fun, engaging way whilst also showcasing the wonderful work that local organisations and businesses are doing in the area of all things green and sustainable. Fine local food, a variety of sustainabilityminded exhibitors, a kids’ zone, a film room, and soulful music were all part of the popular kick-off event – the Botanica Spring Fair – held at the beautiful North Coast Regional Botanic Garden on Sunday 3 November. Any spring event on the Coffs Coast always comes with the risk of spectacular afternoon thunderstorms, but the sun gods shone and made the weekend complete for many Coffs Coast residents and visitors. With close to 4,000 hungry mouths to feed, the food tent alley was buzzing with tantalising treats, while the kids’ zone was a sea of colour with happy painted faces enjoying Steve McEwan’s Reptile show, listening to library storytime or dancing away to a tune at the kids’ Zumba space. Other highlights of Botanica included guided bush tucker and Coffs Creek walks, Eco Home workshops, how to create native bee habitat talks, a ‘Ricotta Off’ cheese-making demonstration and, of course, presentations by the ‘Face of the Festival’, the enthusiastic Gardening Australia host, Costa Georgiadis. For the third year in a row, Costa inspired Botanica attendees to live a happier, healthier and more sustainable life. Easily captivating 22 coffs coast focus.

the crowd, Costa spoke with passion about how valuable the Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival is for bringing communities together to drive change.

g Easily captivatin a st Co d, ow cr the ion about spoke with pass e Coffs how valuable th Living e bl na Co ast Sustai ging in br r fo Festival is ther to ge to es iti un comm drive change .”

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“The Botanica Spring Fair is the highlight of the year for the sustainability team here at Coffs Council,” said Lynn Delgado, Council’s Sustainability Coordinator. “ We love having the opportunity to chat to people and seeing everyone having such a great time, while picking up tips and ideas for how to tread more lightly on the earth. We hope that the Festival inspires people to make changes to live more sustainably. After all, it’s a win-win situation – it can make us all happier and healthier (and save us money) while creating a better future for all our children.”

On Monday 4 November, creatively dubbed ‘Mulching Monday’, Costa inspired future farmers from years 7 up to 10 at Orara High School, chatted to bins (and students) at Narranga Public School and offered support to 50 teachers at a Q&A session at the Coffs Regional Community Garden, providing them with advice and inspiration for food gardens they have initiated in local childcare centres and schools. Local chef Stefano Mazzina also created a feast at the Spring Harvest Dinner on Monday night. There was locally-caught Swordfish off the boat that morning, Willy Willy Creek

Pork Belly and Burrawong Chicken on the menu, which featured 100% local produce. The dinner saw all sectors of the local food industry come together to share and celebrate local food. The evening focused on creating an opportunity for producers, restaurateurs and the community to collaborate and create a vibrant, healthy and secure local food future for the Coffs Coast. “The Spring Harvest Dinner is all about strengthening the connections within the local food industry,” said Council’s Economic Development Manager, Jennifer Oloman. “Of course we also enjoyed paying homage to the wonderful produce we have in the local area.”

Costa spent time highlighting the abundance of local food available on the Coffs Coast and congratulated local chefs and producers on the quality of the food they are bringing to the table. Costa went on to say that it was very encouraging to see Coffs Harbour creating a cultural shift through a range of initiatives that focus on educating the community, especially young people, about the advantages of eating

locally. The week-long Festival came to an end on the weekend of 9 and 10 November with Super Saturday workshops and community events. Super Saturday saw 11 workshops run by local and interstate experts, covering a range of sustainable living topics including Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga and Classical Pilates Mat classes, an all-day workshop run by BelloBamboo on how to make a simple but beautiful Japanese roof made out of locally sourced bamboo, Sustainable Health and Fermentation workshops, Plant Propagation, how to construct a Hoop House out of recyclable and basic materials and Natural Pest Management. In addition to the local experts, this year the Festival Committee was pleased to have Margaret Hodgson OAM run an extremely popular ‘Botanical Illustration for Beginners’ workshop. The Festival committee would like to thank everyone involved in pulling a large regional event like this together. The major partners were Coffs Harbour City Council, Our Living Coast Alliance and Friends of the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden. The Festival also enjoyed sponsorship from the Coffs Coast Advocate, Coffs Solar Energy, CHYFM, Coffs Coast Health Club and the Coffs Coast Kids Club, and the support of Kombu and the Coffs Coast Local Food Alliance.

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THE

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John Meyer is one of the 8 members of The Good Ship – a Folk/Rock band who’ll be dropping in at FOTSUN in December. John plays guitar and sings, but as you’ll see … there’s a wealth of musical talent in this group, which play instruments you don’t often get to see at a music festival! ohn, thanks for your time this morning. I know you guys are about to start touring around, so I’m guessing you’re a bit flat-chat at the moment! Yeah, we’re putting the final touches to our new album which will be coming out in November … and just getting geared up for the November tour. Tell us a little bit about the new album … The album is our first studio album. It’s called ‘The Seven Seas’. We released our second album last year, and at the same time we were writing this theatre show which was ten songs that tell a story. We had some visuals, a narrator and a director on board for that. It was a different sort of challenge for the band. And it developed into this full-blown show. And now we’ve recorded those songs, and that’s our third album, which we’re launching at the Powerhouse at Brisbane on November 15, then we’re doing a tour and finishing up with Festival of the Sun. Tell us a little bit about the band, The Good Ship. How did you actually get together and who are the individual band members? It’s an eight-piece Folk/Rock band. It started in 2009 when myself and the other major songwriter in the band; we just started [it] as a side-project. We had other bands at the time, and we were a bit frustrated with them. We started the band as something of an outlet for a bit of fun. We started to gather some friends around us, to play various instruments. It was really organic … Over the years, a few people have left, a few have joined. It’s sort of solidified now; it was very much an organic kind of growth for the band. We didn’t set out to do all the things that we’ve done necessarily, but it’s been an amazing ride. Myself (John Meyer), I play guitar and am one of the main songwriters. Daz Gray is guitar and vocals. Brett Harris, also writes some great songs for us; he plays banjo and piano. Kat Cooke is actually taking lead vocals on the new single for the first time that’s an amazing growth for her; she’s our trumpet player. Kat Ogilvie who plays accordion. Janey Mac, 24 coffs coast focus.

plays the bass. Geoff Wilson plays the fool a lot of the time; he plays mandolin and also mandola, which is a big mandolin. He also plays the lagerphone, which is, for those who don’t know, a stick with bottle-caps on it. He has got the world’s best lagerphone; I reckon he could hold a masterclass for instruction of lagerphones. It’s amazing. And James Lees is our drummer. Your sound is certainly very unique. How difficult was it for you guys to combine all of these different instruments to come up with a sound Usually someone that is as distinct will come to the ngg and on as what you guys band with a so utt in the have produced? It we’ ll bash it ou going to sound good m , ever yo ne is a huge challenge. rehearsal room nt complementing each re ffe di of ts The difficulty of will play lo bit at other. Often trumpet and th h, “O , go d parts an being in a large accordion will go together .” od go ds soun band is finding space and form a counter-melody for everyone to express each other … The show has themselves, to play been on our mind for a couple their instrument how they of years. It was a process of maybe want to play it. When we work six months of intensive workshopping, some of the songs, it’s often a process not only the songs, but the narration, the of ‘just throw everything in a bucket and then narrative, the story are to come together so we you start taking things out’. Then what’s left in could present it in a theatre. the bucket at the end of the day is something How different would you say ‘The Seven that makes sense. Usually someone will come Seas’ is to your first two releases? to the band with a song and we’ll bash it out Quite different. It’s a concept album, in a way; in the rehearsal room, everyone will play lots it’s telling a single story. So we wanted all the of different parts and go, “Oh, that bit sounds instruments, pace, and the vibe to be cohesive good”. People can set up and let that musician not too many extra elements. When you record have a go for that section. Some of our songs a studio album, you can bring in a fiddle player tend to be a bit all-in, everything playing at or whatever; you can have any instrument you once, and then sometimes we try to whittle want. We wanted to keep it pretty much how that down, and get a little bit more open. we would perform it. So, that’s a lot of acoustic Mentioning that process, how long has instruments: guitars, mandolin, piano. We did it actually taken for you to put this new bring in a few extra instruments, but it’s pretty album together? This album has come much just complementing the sound. It has a together pretty quickly in terms of once we’d very simple, natural, Folky, acoustic kind of vibe, started to do it. We’re so used to this process, whereas some of our previous stuff has had songs come together really quickly. We all electric guitars and pounding drums. kind of instinctively know what instruments

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are going to sound good, what parts are

Do you have a YouTube channel? Yes: http://

www.youtube.com/user/TheGoodShipCrew With this tour that you’ll be undertaking, you’re playing a lot of different venues. What is the attraction of festivals particularly for you guys? The best thing about festivals is you’re playing to people who wouldn’t normally see you. We’re all about trying to spread our music to as many people as possible. We love playing live. Playing festivals is an opportunity to play to usually quite large numbers of people who may have heard of the band, but may not have had the chance to see the band. When we tour, we’re restricted so much because of the size of the country. You tend to only be playing Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Adelaide, those kinds of places. You don’t really get into the regional areas as much as you’d like to. Going and playing at somewhere like Port Macquarie is going to be a fantastic experience for us. Thanks John.

the plug! The Good Ship will be playing at FOTSUN on at Sundowner Breakwall Tourist Park, Port Macquarie. 13-14 December 2013.

Looking through a glass onion In 1992, John Waters and Stewart D’Arrietta took to the small stage at the Tilbury Hotel, Woolloomooloo, Sydney with their debut production of Looking Through A Glass Onion. What was an initially a one week booking quickly sold out and extended into a six week, sell out season. Fast forward, after a massive 137date tour in 2010/2011/2012, John and Stewart are returning with their ‘up close and personal’ 2 man show in 2014, whilst gearing up towards launching the production Off Broadway in New York. “It began its life as a small venue piece with just Stewart D’Arrietta and myself on stage at the Tilbury Hotel in Sydney. I made my entrance from a kitchen and climbed over patrons’ laps to scramble onto a tiny raised platform in the corner of the room. The audience and I were inescapably intimate with each other from the very start, and I kinda like that. Not every venue we play this time around can be exactly like that, but it’s the feeling I want to create – to take the show back to its roots,” says John Waters. The show is not a cut-and-paste biography of Lennon or an emulation of the original recordings. On stage, with shadows from the lighting arrangement fluttering over his face, he explores the essence of the man through song and spoken word. Waters becomes synonymous with Lennon. He shies away from imitating the

artist, but so emotive is his performance, it lulls the audience into believing anything is possible. It’s part concert and part biography, though it doesn’t seek to tell the full story of Lennon’s life. “Rather than to impersonate, I wanted to evoke his honesty, bitter-sweet humour, self criticism and disdain for pretentiousness and pomposity,” says Waters. “The song Glass Onion was John Lennon’s postscript to The Beatles. It had such a strong image of crystal ball-gazing and peeling away the layers that it inspired the format for this show – a kaleidoscope collage of song, word, emotion and image,” agrees D’Arrietta with Waters. For the audience, this is either an emotional trip down memory lane or a wonderful introduction to the life and times of one of the most fascinating icons of our time.

FINAL SHOWS BEFORE NEW YORK

LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION JOHN

LENNON In Word and Music

SUNDAY JANUARY 12

SAWTELL RSL SAWTELL www.sawtellrsl.com.au 02 6653 1577

JOHN

WATERS with Stewart D’Arrietta

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL AN INTIMATE PERFORMANCE coffs coast focus 25

focusinterview.

Pittwater to Coffs

Di Leach is true inspiration to those wanting to fulfil their personal goals! A relative new competitor, in 2011 her and her crew placed 1st in their division in the Pittwater to Coffs. Di also developed and runs her own successful Bookkeeping business and believes that you should never give up on your dreams ... Kiwi native, what originally brought you to our wonderful country and more importantly, when and why did you wind up on the gorgeous Coffs Coast? It has to be the beaches and lifestyle that brought me to Australia in 1980. We seem pretty laid back here, but I like the idea that we can do anything at any time, nothing is too big and everything is achievable. What is your day job? About nine years ago I developed OAS Bookkeeping Services, a business that I ran from home. Today I have an office in the Coffs Harbour CBD, employ five people and have a vast range of businesses that we assist on a daily basis. That's quite different from your true passion, sailing … when did you first realise you had a healthy obsession with the seas? Since I was 11, I have always wanted to sail so far off shore that I was unable to see any land. As a child I was brought up around motor boats, water skiing and camping on the lakes. But I have always wanted to sail; there is something about putting yourself against whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Sailing to me is not just something I do, but something I feel. You can feel the boat respond under your feet, so you know what’s coming next; it takes on a

26 coffs coast focus.

spirit of its own and will liven up with a good wind and bite into the water in rough seas. It’s like it has its own personality ... you, the boat, the water, the wind. When did you first begin to compete? Tell us about that journey. In 2010 I was an ambassador for the Pittwater to Coffs Harbour yacht race, welcome the arriving boats, help them tie up etc. I was then given the opportunity to sail a boat back to Pittwater after the race. I loved it. This is when I began to tell anyone who will listen, that I was going to sail in the next Pittwater to Coffs race, and I was going to win. So in 2011 I sailed on B52 (Coffs Harbour Yacht) in the Pittwater to Coffs Yacht race. This has been one of the most exciting things I have ever done. By the way, we came FIRST in our division after a very tough race and losing our rudder on the final day of the regatta, but still managing to come over the finish line under sail. You have achieved so much in such a short period … tell us about raising a family, setting up your successful book keeping practice, plus sailing! How did you juggle it all? In 2001, I became a solo parent of three boys aged from 10 to 15. Instead of thinking this was going to be hard, I embraced the opportunity to do everything I could for my boys. I did not want to dwell on what I didn’t have but

what I wanted for myself and my family. So with a part-time job for income, my boys settled and achieving at school, I began to study and set up my business, knowing this would be our future and always keeping the dream of sailing off across the oceans in mind. But this was a dream; maybe if I said it often enough, I might just get there.

November from Las Palmas, Canary Islands and head across the widest and deepest part of the Atlantic to St Lucia in the West Indies. The trip will take approximately three weeks, with no stops on the way; there is no land out there.

There will be approximately 200 boats and over 1,000 crew crossing the Atlantic Ocean with us, but there is a chance of not seeing any other boats on the crossing. We cast off on 24

pushing, your dream will become a reality – only you can actually make it happen. To me I only have one life, and I intend living every minute of it.

What has been the most amazing thing you've e w , seen whilst on the ay By the w in T RS Tell us about your ocean? The whales FI came ry ve a r te af next big advenalways take my breath on si our divi ng si lo d an ce ture crossing The away. They seem so ra tough e final th on er dd ru Atlantic. When are wise and majestic; it's r ou a, but you leaving, and like they know someday of the regatt come still managing to who are your crew thing we don’t. When e over the finish lin members? Steve and you see them up close, under sail.” Ange Webb purchased they look you right in their yacht 'Pannikin' from the eye ... amazing. When Turkey and talked about you travel at night, as the sailing it back to Australia. I had boat cuts through the water my hand up straight away, before it turns luminous and sparkles; it’s even hearing the details. After much discussion amazing in all that darkness, you seem to travel with other crew members, including Andrew with this glow surrounding the boat. Duguid GP and John Yates retired Senior Food What advice would you offer to mums who Safety Officer, we are entered into the world have a dream? Never lose sight of your dream, ARC Atlantic Rally. no matter how remote it seems. If you keep

“

McGuigan BMW

Sales Finance Service Parts

Overseas models shown.

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DRIVEN BY GREAT EXPECTATIONS AT MCGUIGAN BMW.

McGuigan BMW 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Tel: 6588 8500. www.mcguiganbmw.com.au

DL7571

coffs coast focus

focusinterview.

D O V E TA I L When retired school teacher Col Hosie and wife Pam Corrigan, research officer for the Senate at Parliament House, left ACT to relocate to the beautiful Coffs Coast, they decided they needed a project to sink their teeth into … they are now the proud owners te of world renowned Gifkins Dovetail, a jig o manufacturing business…

hen did you realise that your real passion was woodworking? As a small boy growing up in Albury, I used to walk to school every day past a cabinet maker's workshop. I loved the smells of fresh cut timber and the polished furniture in the window. Being a cabinet maker was all I wanted to do, but, as is usual, things don’t always work out the way you want. During my years as a motor vehicle repairer I set up a sideline business as a wood turner. I made a range of turned products, which were sold to regional galleries and craft shops. It was a gradual development into the world of cabinet making. It’s something I grew to enjoy more as I got older and my skill level improved. I also had help from well known international artists and wood turners living in and around Canberra. What was your earlier career? I started my career in the motor repair industry, working in Canberra and New Zealand. After a six year stint as owner of a repair shop, I became an industrial arts teacher in a Canberra catholic college – a career that lasted for 25 years. Teaching is the most satisfying profession one could have. In my years of teaching junior and senior students, I taught woodwork, metalwork, plastics technology, technical drawing, motor technology, and a range of outdoor activities. What is the most extravagant project you've worked on? Describe this piece. My most extravagant project was a commission to build the 28 coffs coast focus.

and d offertory off ffeertory table for the chapel at the th altar, lectern and school where I taught. The brief was simple: design and construct furniture for the chapel to fit with the ethos of the school. Each of the pieces was unique in design, made on the premises from Camphor Laurel sourced from the Mid North Coast.

jewellery boxes, blanket boxes, and coffee tables.

Do you manufacture and distribute here in Coffs Harbour? Why have you chosen to 'keep it local'? The jigs are hand-made and distributed to customers all over the world from right here in Coffs Harbour. You might say we are a local business with a global product. We source most of our raw materials We are the sole and from the Coffs Coast region. manufacturers e Gifkins The benefits to the local distri buters of th made community are obvious. D ovetail jig . It’s

Tell us about your business ... In mid-2011 my wife, Pam, and I moved from Canberra to Coffs Harbour. At the same time we all in Australia from ts and purchased the Gifkins Where do you sell uc Australian prod Dovetail business from the nd your pieces? I sell my ki its of e is the only on inventor, Roger Gifkins. boxes at regional galleries .” ld in the wor You might say we brought and trade shows and to jobs with us. We are the sole internet customers. I also take manufacturers and distributors commissions for special pieces. of the Gifkins Dovetail jig. It’s made Tell us what the saying 'think outside in Australia from all Australian products the box' means to you … You often hear and is the only one of its kind in the world. We the catch-phrase 'think outside the box'. We like sell our jig via the internet, travel to most capital to think we can help you make the box! cities demonstrating box making skills and how What is on the agenda for 2014? The program for to use the jig. We also sell associated box making accessories. An important side of the business is making 2014 is to continue to develop our box designs and enjoy our business, I also plan on publishing books on beautiful boxes. plans and construction of dovetail boxes, as well as What is a dovetail jig? Dovetail jigs come in different filming demonstration DVDs. forms, but essentially a dovetail jig holds timber in a Thanks Col. clamped position so that the joints can be cut with For more information, phone 6651 9513 or visit a router. It assists in the user to make dovetail joints www.gifkins.com.au when constructing boxes and small furniture items like

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coffs coast focus 29

Coffs Coast Coffs

Mixed Seafood Plate from Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat

30 coffs coast focus.

eat. Salmon and Tuna Nigiri

Sarong Bar & Restaurant

The Pier Hotel Waves @ The Pier Hotel has some fantastic dishes on offer this summer. Our new menus have been a massive hit; there’s something for everyone. Head Chef Dave Newick and his team continue to produce quality, delicious food such as the mouth watering filet mignon. We still offer the best value lunches on the coast starting at $10 and a great range of tap beers and quality wines, available 7 days per week.

One need only look at our Salmon and Tuna Nigiri to know that this is real Japanese. Maiko and Makiko bring the true essence of Osaka to every dish they prepare and combine it with the unparalleled ambience of 1st Avenue Sawtell, friendly staff and excellent value. Sarong has an ever changing list of wines by the glass. Spread your wings with a Malbec, Pinot Gris or maybe a Viognier. We run our Japanese lunch every weekday from 11.30am then reopen at 5pm with our fantastic Pan Asian menu. Check out our NEW WEBSITE for further information about our lunch and dinner menus at www.sarongsawtell.com

Chefs Makiko & Maiko.

Head Chef Dave Newick.

www.facebook.com/sarongsawtell

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel 6652 2110 bistro 6651 8222

1/24 First Avenue Sawtell t 6658 5857

Open: lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm, dinner 5.30pm 8.30pm, 7 days a week.

open Lunch 11.30am - 2.30pm, Monday – Friday. Dinner From 5pm Monday – Saturday.

Café TREEO Sawtell

Pork Belly braised in sweet sherry, five spice and topped with seared scallops accompanied by oyster mushrooms and shallots.

Sometimes rustic and sometimes refined, TREEO is all about the taste. Not always following trends, Chef Duncan isn’t afraid to match long time café favourites up against innovative dishes that keep their customers on their toes. TREEO is all about the quality, using seasonal, fresh and local produce (and organic where possible) … And with a modest herb and veggie patch in the backyard, you’ll often be tasting what they’ve grown. Breakfast and lunch are served all day. To view the full menu, visit cafetreeo.com or follow them on Facebook for the latest update.

Macauleys Restaurant Our FAMOUS Pork Belly is back by popular demand as part of our NEW SUMMER MENU.......... Braised in sweet sherry, five spice & topped with seared scallops accompanied by oyster mushrooms and shallots...... it’s a serious dish for the serious food lover.

Owner/Chef Duncan Elliot.

18 First Ave, Sawtell t 6653 1099 fb fb.com/ CafeTreeo open: 7 days from 7am for breakfast and lunch.

We’re currently taking bookings for our NEW YEARS EVE event......... PERFECT for those peeps that love our amazing food, fab wine and sensational service...... ADD bluesy tunes by Ryan Martin AND you have New Years Eve PERFECTION!!! AND if you LOVE SEAFOOD, ask us about Chef Craig’s SEAFOOD MEDLEY Platter which is ONLY AVAILABLE on New Years Eve.......

Head Chef Craig Clarke.

99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour t 6652 5970 w www.macauleys.com.au open: Monday to Saturday from 6pm.

coffs coast focus 31

eat. Pork Belly.

Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill Celebrate the festive season with the best views on the coast and a seafood affair! Join us at Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill for this festive season and New Year’s celebrations, with a scrumptious lunch or dinner surrounded by the best harbour views on the coast. Serving a delicious array of fresh local seafood and other gourmet fare, Fishos is a fantastic choice for any occasion. Open for Lunch from 11.30am, Dinner 5.30pm and Breakfast on Wed & Weekends – from 7.30am. Make a booking today 6652 1534. www.coffsfishos.com.au

Finz on The Beach Located at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, Finz Restaurant boasts stunning elevated ocean views and is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner for two, after work drinks or even your end of year Christmas party. Showcasing seasonal, fresh produce, you will have your senses delighted! Our new summer menu will be launched in the coming weeks, so keep your eye open for this exciting new showcase of gorgeous summer selections. You can now make your dinner reservation online with DIMMI, visit our website www.breakfreeaanukabeachresort.com.au or simply call (02) 6652 7555.

Executive Chef Tim McClay-Talivai

Head Chef Jason Watterson.

1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour t 6652 1534 w www.coffsfishos.com.au

Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 2400 w www.aanuka.com.au

open: 7 days. Lunch and dinner and for breakfast from 7.30am on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday.

open: from 6pm, 7 days a week.

Pasfields Restaurant Bar Deck In a spectacular setting high on the hill at Paradise Palms Resort, the newly renovated Pasfields Restaurant Bar Deck Function Centre (ex Beaches & Rum Runners) is now open and offering a complete dining experience. Fine dining such as Two Tails: crocodile and Balmain Bug tails, casual bar snacks such as nachos and wedges, amazing cocktails and bar or takeaway pizzas are on offer. The exquisitely renovated restaurant and/ or deck provide the perfect setting for weddings (with Chapel too), Christmas parties and functions. Now with Social Sundays to unwind, with relaxing solo and bands in the background on the deck while tasting all day tapas, pizza ... and daily happy hour 4.30pm - 6pm

Bluebottles Brasserie Come and enjoy our new summer menu and great daily specials. Beautiful food in our friendly relaxed alfresco atmosphere. Have a look at the 100 Dishes Cookbook, featuring us and other great restaurants along the coast.

Come and try the delicious new grilled seafood platter for 1 or 2, $50 / $95. The perfect spot for a Christmas lunch or dinner function: casual platters, canapes, à la carte or buffet.

Open for dinner Friday and Saturday nights and catering for all your holiday get togethers. Head Chef Gerard Geerligs.

Shops 1 & 2, 53 Beach St, Woolgoolga t 6654 1962 open Breakfast and lunch daily. Dinner Friday and Saturday.

32 coffs coast focus.

675 Pacific Highway, Korora t 6653 7710 w www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au open: Dinner 7 nights from 5pm, Bookings only for weekend breakfasts. Lunch Thurs - Sun.

eat. The Lot.

Wholly Cow Café Great burgers / Organic / Fresh / Healthy Local / Fairtrade coffee / Homemade sauces Do you think it’s possible to have a healthy burger?? At Wholly Cow, it’s possible because they serve them everyday! The burgers are made fresh to order, the old fashioned way using local and organic produce whenever they can. All the patties, delicious mayo, relish and pesto sauces are made on site, so they know what goes into everything! A Wholly Cow burger is a meal, not a fast food, mass produced, sugary snack. They pride themselves on bringing back good old fashioned burgers, where you can taste the freshness of the ingredients.

Spinifex Restaurant Located at the Coast Hotel in Coffs Harbour, Spinifex Restaurant is not just about the food. Head Chef Sam Allinson has created a style of restaurant second to none. A favourite for locals and visitors alike, Spinifex has a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Great food, superb wine and friendly staff, combined with fresh seasonal produce make our restaurant the perfect experience for everyone. Our new summer menu reflects the diversity of our chefs and our region with a great range of pizzas, burgers and seafood dishes.

Their motto is simple – ‘burgers how they should be!’

Head Chef Sam Allinson. Owners Michelle & Ricky Lee

2/39 First Avenue, Sawtell t 6658 2682 w www.whollycow.com.au

Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour t 6652 3007 w www.coasthotel.com.au

open: Monday to Saturday, 7am to 5pm. Sunday and public holidays, 7am to 3pm.

open: Lunch: noon - 2.30pm. Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar 'Tis the season, and if you thought you have lost all hope of finding a venue for your end of year function, do not despair! We have a few remaining evenings that have not been booked out yet. But we would also like to take this chance to thank everyone who has come in and made our year festive, so if we don't see you before Christmas, enjoy the holidays, and we shall see you in the New Year!

element bar

Chef Joel McCulla.

27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway) t 6652 1588 w www.zuluscoffs.com open: Breakfast: Monday – Friday, 7am – 9am. Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – late.

Chef Chris Rea now at element bar on the Jetty strip has an extensive fine dining background in New Zealand and in Ziggy’s at the Stamford Plaza in Brisbane. Chicken Saltimbocca Add sage leaf to chicken breast fillet and wrap in Montecatini prosciutto. Roast in an 85°C oven until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 63°C, which means the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender. Serve on pumpkin risotto made from carnaroli rice simmered in an oven roasted pumpkin and orange puree with white wine, butter and parmesan.

Head Chef Chris Rea.

380 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour Jetty t 6651 6655 open: Open from 11am 7 days until late and 2am on Friday and Saturday. coffs coast focus 33

eat. Seaview Tavern The Seaview Tavern Family Bistro is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. In between we have a great little bar snacks menu – so you are always able to get a great feed. After the winter months and being warmed by our open fires inside, or alfresco in our large beer garden, warmed by mushroom heaters, the warmer weather continues to make it a great place to dine all year round. Our $10 meal deals make us the popular choice from Monday through to Friday, plus we have daily blackboard specials sure to please even the fussiest of palates. We also do takeaway meals – please ring through your order on 6654 1206.

Horizons Restaurant & Bar SUMMER IS ON THE HORIZON. Try our new menu: featuring exciting new dishes which take full advantage of the region’s freshest produce and seafood. Horizon’s offers sensational food at affordable prices. BOOK NOW FOR YOUR WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY Why not include a game of mini golf at The Cove Australiana themed miniature golf course?

Head Chef Paul Lynch.

51 River St, Woolgoolga t 6654 1206 w www.seaviewtavern.com.au fb fb.com/seaviewtavernwoolgoolga open: 7 days, noon – 3pm and 5pm – 8.30pm (extended trading for daylight savings).

Bean @ Bello Café

TAKE THE WORK OUT OF CHRISTMAS DAY JOIN US FOR COFFS HARBOUR'S BIGGEST CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH A HUGE FESTIVE BUFFET LUNCH & ENTERTAINMENT – taking bookings now. Horizons Restaurant & Bar overlooking the pool and taking in the coastal views ... guests are able to dine alfresco on the terrace or in air conditioned comfort. Horizons Bar has fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5 - 6pm daily.

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour t 6651 0510 open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

Come in and try our famous wood fired pizzas.

Bean @ Bello has new owners and is open Wednesday - Monday, 7.30am 'til late afternoon ... from a big breaky to our famous pancakes and everything in-between to satisfy one's tastebuds for breakfast. Lunch consists of our special homemade lamb burgers to our crisp Flathead fillet to our mouth watering sushi rolls. Come and check out our daily specials boards with a variety of homemade meals, a wide selection of cakes and our famous award winning coffee. Book early for your Christmas functions.

Zebu bar + grill

New Owners Bonnie & Victor

7 Church St, Bellingen t 6655 9004 open: 6 days, breakfast and lunch.

34 coffs coast focus.

Pizza lovers, Mario is back! The man who made the very first pizza in Zebu has returned with his signature recipe for wood fired pizza dough learned from years of working in Italian restaurants all over the world, including 10 years under Master Enzo in Pino's Italian Restaurant in Crows Nest. Exec Chef Adam Tait has teamed this with the release of his new Zebu Bar Menu, with a mouth watering selection of divine dishes, including Ruben Sandwich, Wagyu Beef Burger and Tequila marinated prawns with chilli and lime. Diary Date: New Year's Poison Ivy - Super Heroes and Villains collide for a night of villainous fun. $150pp, including canapés, main and sinful dessert buffet. 4 Hour beverage package and dancing, DJ and gaming in Poison Ivy's den!

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie t 6589 2822 w www.zebu.com.au open 7 days, from 6.30am - late. Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended.

Exec Chef Adam Tait & Pizza Chef Mario Sroka.

Have we got one cracker of a December planned for you!

Summer is here

HUNT

EC D 1 2 LAITSUA RDAYFROM 6PM

RDEN

GA BEER

Summer is here ... cool down with a refreshing original Pi単a Colada smoothie or juice, light and tasty summer salad, rice paper roll, quesadilla served with avocado and sour cream (gluten-free bread/vegetarian available). Breakfast at Bacio is a wonderful place to start your Christmas shopping day with a big breakfast or fresh fruit and yogurt to keep you going, or perhaps something like a bacon and egg roll or freshly baked ham and cheese croissant on the run. To keep you powering through the day, don't forget our fabulous thick shakes, milkshakes, iced coffee or chocolate or coffee, or even an ice cream/sorbet to keep the little ones happy.

Events at Cocoa

Don't forget to keep your eye out in store for gift ideas or vouchers for your loved ones.

Events @ cocoa Your event our expertise. Our young and dynamic team can turn your event into reality

O L F N EBB 28 DEC

Function menus available to suit any event style Are you in charge of the office Christmas party?... call us now!

Plus! Count down to Christmas with us, and you may receive a gift from our advent calendar! Christmas/New Year catering is still available, so get in and place your order quickly ...

DAYFROM 6PM R U T SA RDEN BEER

LS A E D EAL DAY

UR T A $10 M S DAY MON

ovie m r o do

m ut kids o n from 6.30p n & mo su

FOR O BOOKINGS PH: OR PH 6653 6199 9 2 Moonee Beach Rd, Moonee Beach www.mooneebeachtavern.com.au coffs coast focus 35

focusinterview.

NYE Ball

CARNIVALESQUE

MASQUERADE La Fleur D’Alyse and Le Dãin Designs again take great pleasure in announcing the most opulent way to spend the eve of the New Year, at Carnivalesque Masquerade.

he scene is set for this special event, a lavish evening that will have you ringing in 2013 in style. Overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean, the beachfront Opal Cove Resort will be dressed to impress, with all the colour and glamour of the European court. As you arrive, you will be greeted not only with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the top of the line luxury Audi range, thanks to Bellbowrie European, but with the entertainers of the court as they entice you back through time whilst you mingle and are waited on hand and foot by the attentive help for the evening.

charity Little Wings, who have just begun flying precious young local children to Sydney for life saving treatments. Guests have the opportunity to purchase balloons throughout the evening; within each balloon a prize is contained ranging in value from $50 to $1,000. After the custom cocktails, mini banquets and European styled canapés, pampered guests will move from the civilized formalities of the high society court entertainers and trappings to the complete beach frontage Opals Room, where DJ Jordy will be spinning tunes ‘til the early hours for you to dance the night away. The most glamorous guest will be handsomely rewarded with the Best Dressed accolade, receiving a lavish gift from Le Dãin Deigns and La Fleur D’Alyse to ensure they continue to dazzle in style.

As the evening of masked indulgence unfolds, Body artists are t you will be pampered on hand to pain t ar of with many luxurious a mask or piece ants ip ic rt pa g delights. Upon arrival in ill w on th 15 of you will be greeted with reminiscent s. ” de pa ca es custom cocktails, created Century Every effort has been especially for you to enjoy made to deliver a luxurious as you wish in magnificent night to remember, with the surrounds while awaiting the opportunity to dress to impress arrival of the Bellbowrie European and sparkle the evening away in Audi VIP motorcade. To keep you well fine style. To help prepare for the event, informed about the proceedings of Carniindulge yourself and pay a visit to La Fleur valesque Masquerade, we have the pleasure D’Alyse to rejuvenate and unmask the new you of having the fabulously effervescent Michael on New Year’s Eve. When you dress to impress, Crossland as MC for the evening. head into Le Dãin Designs’ flagship store in As the evening of fun and frivolity unfolds, Sawtell. Your gown, jewellery and masque more excitement ensues. Guests can have their needs will be taken care of in their personalised horoscopes read and futures told by fortune styling lounge. tellers and clairvoyants. Body artists are on hand As the evening draws closer, you may be wonto paint a mask or piece of art on willing particidering how you can join the fun. Tickets are pants reminiscent of 15th Century escapades. available online at http://www.trybooking.com/ You can take home instant memories with DYTB. You can also contact the major sponsors, snapshots from the photo booth, and outstandBellbowrie European, La’Fleur D’Alyse and Le ing local photographers Lyss & Her Camera and Dãin Designs’ to secure your ticket. $150 for Skyview Photography will be on hand as the this evening of luxury is almost too good to be official memory capturers, so you may relive true, and it is all thanks to the generous and fun the evening once the champagne effects have loving Bellbowrie European, La Fleur D’Alyse, Le worn off. Dãin Designs’ and the beachfront Opal Cove ReAs you arrive at this evening of opulence, sort. For more information or assistance, please the focus won’t purely be on fun and frivolity. contact Tegan Ewart from 400 Management on All proceeds for the evening will go to local 0408 494 464.

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MERRY FEATURE

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.........

Chmas at the promenade .........

RETREAT: SANCTUARY FOR THE SOUL GIFTS FROM THE PROMENADE Come into greenroom gallery for good vibes, STRESS FREE shopping and friendly help. It’s easy to find a lovely gift in the greenroom. Our one size fits all, pure silk kimonos and kaftans are gorgeous, and there is a colour combination for every taste. This summer we offer the modal slips that complement so well at a special price; see online or in store for details. Our customers come for the bamboo, hemp and organic cotton labels. The new soft, core range from Australian made Layer’d has also been well received. We have plenty of silk scarves, gorgeous wood and clay jewellery, natural candles and perfumes. For your man, we suggest the hemp and bamboo T-shirts, bamboo socks or underwear. Wayne’s art is popular. Reproduction prints start at $19, and there are savings to be had when you buy 2 or 3 prints as well. For your convenience we have gift vouchers, we offer layby and we love giftwrapping. Put on layby now; pick up gift-wrapped just in time for Christmas. We, Charlotte and Wayne, would also like to take this opportunity to thank our customers for being part of our 2013. You are the best! See you in the greenroom.

Enter into an atmosphere of gentle sounds and exotic aromas that touch the senses … Retreat is a sanctuary for the soul. Retreat offers a wide range of treatments, from massage, facials to body wraps in our Vichy Shower Cocoon. Our caring, professional therapists are here to make your experience a memorable one. The facilities at Retreat are second to none and include luxurious treatments separate or together, and outdoors. Balinese garden with spa bath, detox infrared sauna, Vichy Shower, as well as a beautiful relaxation space where you and your friends can spend time together. Group bookings and spa packages are our specialities and can be tailored to your specific desires. Retreat Boutique From colourful and flamboyant clothing to exotically inspired homewares, the retreat offers gifts, cards, jewellery, herbal teas, organic body products, and designer and local labels, as well as Pevonia Botanica skincare and Eles to make your life beautiful – come and enjoy the ambience. Retreat Wellness Offering the best for your optimal wellbeing, the retreat integrates the latest equipment from around the world into our wellness programmes, including hair analysis, iridology, blood analysis, frequency specific micocurrent, VLA and, brand new to Coffs Harbour, an Indigo biofeedback energy medicine. Mention this article and receive a FREE Vitality Longevity Analysis test.

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MERRY FEATURE

MADE WITH LOVE This Christmas: buy handmade and buy local – that’s the message Alison Paul, organiser of the Made with Love Markets, wants to spread. The Made with Love Markets is the only dedicated handmade market on the Coffs Coast which showcases handmade, local, boutique and unique items. The next market is on Sunday 1 December, and with over 100 stallholders booked, the market promises something for everyone. Everything is handmade, created or designed and includes: soaps, teas, cookie and cakes, wooden toys, softies, gorgeous baby, kids and adult clothing, candles, jewellery, crystals, hats, leadlight, journals, woodwork, hair accessories, artwork, cards and scrapbooking items and much more!

LITTLE.EINSTEIN If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift this year, then look no further ... Little Einstein. WINNER Excellence Award: Local Shop for Kids Stuff. NOMINATED National Award for Excellence in Service.

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“Without a doubt you’ll be able to do all of your Christmas shopping under the one roof. Not only will you be supporting local families, but you will also be purchasing some gorgeous unique items for your loved ones,” said Alison. The Made with Love Markets started as a very small event in May 2011, and its popularity has exploded on the Coffs Coast. The dates for 2014 have just been announced and can be found on the website.

Here’s what people are saying: “Wow, what a gem this place is!” “Great to find a shop with so many quality toys!” “Professional advice and a FANTASTIC toy shop. What an asset!” “Fantastic range. I wish we had this shop in our town!”

The much awaited special Christmas market is on Sunday 1 December from 9am – 2pm indoors at C.ex Coffs, Vernon St, and the cost of entry is a gold coin with 100% of proceeds going to the local Cancer Council..

Come in and check us out. Find out what everyone is talking about!

Attached pillowcase photo is created and designed by Sarah from Flossy-p.

For more information, visit the website: www.madewithlovemarkets.com

MERRY FEATURE

SHOP AND WIN! News from the best chocolate and lolly shop on the planet ... (well, we think so!) This year we are bursting at the seams with the most delicious Christmas lollies and chocolates from around the world! From the traditional to the unusual, our range includes nostalgia tins, hampers, chocolate bouquets ... and so, so much more. And to ‘sweeten’ your decision to shop in our wonderful store ... read on! Exclusive to Sweet Bellingen – spend $10 or more in store (each shopping visit) during November and December to enter our ‘Sweet Sydney night out package for 2’! value $450, includes dinner and travel voucher! Winner drawn December 21 … what a deal! This year we are offering our layby service (collection on or before Dec 24) so you can shop now and we will keep your chocolate gifts cool, safe and secret! And there is more! In response to numerous requests, we are growing the business ‘off site’ … check out our Facebook page for details about our new PHONE AND SHOP SERVICE, DESIGNED FOR OUR CUSTOMERS FAR AND NEAR ... NOW RECOGNISED FOR OUR EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE, TRUE VALUE FOR MONEY PRICES AND QUALITY PRODUCTS, A SHOPPING VISIT TO SWEET BELLINGEN HAS TO BE ON YOUR MUST DO LIST. Open 7 days a week, we invite you to indulge yourself in the ‘Sweet Bellingen shopping experience!’ SWEETLY, BOBBI AND NIGEL!

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Norm Jordan Function Rooms

Love & Kisses

in the

of the city

“This is the nicest shop I’ve seen in years ...” “I know I’ll always find something here; I just love this shop ...” “I always come to Love & Kisses first ...” “Whenever we come through Coffs Harbour, this is the first shop I come to ...” “I come from Grafton every year to start my Christmas shopping at your shop ...” “I’m from Armidale, and your prices are so much better that it’s worth me coming down for the day to get my Christmas gifts at Love & Kisses ...” Stand in Love & Kisses for 15 minutes any day of the week, and you’re sure to hear one of those comments. And at this time of year it’s more fun than ever – you’ll find total strangers sharing jokes and helping each other with gift ideas, carriers rushing in and out delivering new stock, and regular customers telling Judy she hasn’t really lost her marbles, it’s just Christmas! So if you need a $5 gift for each of your book club friends, a $10 Kris Kringle, a teacher gift, or lots of unusual little things for the grandchildren, take your list to Love & Kisses and ask for help – you’ll love some of the suggestions they can come up with. Some of Judy’s current favourites are the blown-glass Friendship Balls, new leather animal key rings from Italy, and the Paris Lady necklaces from France. But call in and see for yourself – you’ll be happy that you did. And may this Christmas bring you much love and plenty of kisses.

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Coffs Showground

in the

of the city

This premier venue is one of the most versatile and adaptable spaces on the Coffs Coast. The rooms can be hired together, separately, or in conjunction with the boardroom, for an ideal break off area. The rooms are identical in size – both seating more than 200 people. The north room features a garden lined patio with a western wall, perfect for a stage or presentation area. The south room has easy access to the open grass areas of the grounds and parking through the southern doors. At the Coffs Harbour Showground you can choose to selfcater, have us provide morning tea, or treat yourself to Sparechef’s onsite catering service – you choose what level you would like to have. Whether you choose the north or south room, the Norm Jordan Function Rooms are the ideal venue for training seminars, workshops, meetings, conferences, parties, weddings or just about any other type of event you could imagine. The possibilities really are endless! With the recent renovations now complete, the rooms are modern, with new carpets, tiled foyer and bar area and a new colour scheme; it can all be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort. For further information, please visit our website at: www.coffsshowground.com.au - or call our friendly staff on 6652 8401 to check availability.

Harbour Sweets

in the

of the city

Harbour Sweets at Coffs Central is owned and operated by Robyn and Peter Jenkins. Previously trading as Darrell Lea Chocolates and due to the sale and restructure of Darrell Lea, we changed our trading name to Harbour Sweets. Darrell Lea is still an Australian owned family concern, and Harbour Sweets has access to the full range of Darrell Lea products. This business began in the early 1970s, when local businessman Ted Monk introduced Darrell Lea to Coffs Harbour. Along with the Darrell Lea products, Robyn has introduced a variety of other Australian confectionery ranging from Chocolatier, Davies Chocolates and Pink lady brands. There is also a large variety of American and English confectionery, salted liquorice, a selection of cool drinks including Dr Pepper, L&P, A&W, Zietsch's portello and creaming soda. Also available is a large range of soft toys and locally hand crafted wooden toys. With Christmas around the corner, Harbour Sweets has in stock the famous Darrell Lea Nougat Christmas Pudding, a large Christmas confectionery selection and a variety of hampers for special occasions. So come and visit Robyn, Peter and Patsy at Harbour Sweets Coffs Central, where you will be greeted with a friendly smile and helpful service.

Swiss Chalet

in the

of the city

Situated in the Ray White Real Estate Complex, next door to Hairemovers, just off the centre of town, worth crossing the road for. The café has been operating for over 20 years, thus standing the test of time. Come join us for breakfast or lunch, featuring local free range eggs, BLT, bacon and eggs rolls, homemade beef burgers, breast chicken cooked our special way, scotch fillet steak sandwiches, jaffles, sandwiches, wraps, salad plates, locally roasted coffee, teas, a small selection of Swiss Cheeses and German Style Sausages, for retail purchase or as menu specials, hot and cold drinks, along with all cakes and slices made on the premises – good old fashioned style cooking. You will usually find a roast, meatloaf or silverside meal included on the daily menu board. You can dine indoors or enjoy the outdoors in our undercover alfresco area, away from all the traffic. Having a meeting – ask us about our catering platters of sandwiches, wraps, fruits trays, morning teas, all delivered locally. December special – small standard coffee ‘w’ a piece of homemade slice: $6.50. So come on in and meet our friendly staff or if you’re in a hurry, pre-order your lunch to eat in or take away. Group booking welcome. Wheelchair access available. Ph. (02) 6651 2398.

K'pane Artisan Bakery

in the

of the city

K’pane Shop 1, located at the Jetty Village Shopping Centre is the heart of this artisan bakery, effortlessly pumping out delicious artisan bakery products to the body of Coffs Harbour and surrounds. If you follow the vein up Harbour Drive to the new Coffs Central Shopping Centre, you find k’pane, Shop 2, located on the ground floor. Mouthwatering cakes, pastries, gourmet pies and sourdough breads line the walls and counters. At k’pane we use certified organic flour in our organic bread range, no artificial flavours and fresh local fruit where possible. There are no nasties hidden in our products. Whether you’re calling by for lunch, choosing a beautiful selection of cakes for morning or afternoon tea or picking up an occasion cake, the difficulty lies in what to choose with k’pane’s extensive range of goodies! Back at the heart, the bakers and pastry chefs quietly weave their magic in the wee hours of the morning: folding whole butter pastry, gently simmering curds, melting couverture Belgium chocolate and feeding the aged mother sourdough culture. In effect, it’s pure magic and above all, REAL food that tastes REALLY good. Our motto is for you to leave the bakery smiling and let the flavours take you on a journey of culinary delights. “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” Virginia Woolf.

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Give the gift of movies Birch, Carroll & Coyle Cinemas have the perfect Christmas Gift solutions and are also taking donations for the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal. Bring a new, unwrapped gift and place it under the tree. You can also purchase a Gift Card for the Salvation Army to distribute to families in need. Imagine their smiles when they receive a special day at the movies from you! A great present for the hard to buy for family or friend, Movie Gift Cards are available in any amount from $25 for use at over *50 cinemas. Various Christmas Movie Gifts are on sale at the cinema 7 days a week until 9.30pm. This year, recipients receive 200 points when joining Cinebuzz Rewards as a new member*; there’s even a bonus Christmas Card – perfect for last minute buys! Businesses can pre-order larger quantities for staff/customers by giving the friendly staff a call.

The Spirit of Christmas The Jetty Memorial Theatre brings you community celebration and the spirit of Christmas this month …

Explore the inner artist Workshops are designed to help explore the inner artist in YOU! Facilitator Rachael Comisari – Art therapist “assists in exploring the individual creative process”.

Enjoy online convenience and have a Movie Gift delivered to your loved one by post or email. You can even purchase the Salvation Army Gift Card Donation at www.experiencethis. com.au/Promotions/Salvation-Army-Gift-Card ... lots of ways to give the gift of movies!

When it comes to art, colour is everything. Colour evokes emotions and memories, and sets the stage for the art you will create.

*Movie Gifts valid at Birch, Carroll & Coyle/Greater Union/ Event Cinemas only. Cinebuzz 200 points available to new members who sign up using the promotional code provided at time of gift purchase.

Emphasis will be on sharing design principles, composition and colour with the objective of building strong paintings by seeing and thinking simply, painting quickly and focusing on the idea of painting.

The class is a fun morning workshop, that will allow you to experience visual story telling in your own unique way.

On Saturday 7 December we are delighted to be hosting the Coffs Coast Inclusive Community Concert to celebrate International Day for People with Disability, featuring talented local performers and special guest pianist David Helfgott. From Saturday 14 to Wednesday 18 December, Coffs Harbour Arts Council Inc by arrangement with ORiGiNTM Theatrical on behalf of Samuel French, Ltd is proud to present Leslie Bricusse's Scrooge, adapted from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. This fifty-five minute version has been adapted especially for a seasonal concert to get you in the mood for the festive season. And get ready for a summer of quality art house cinema as we bring cinema back to the Jetty Theatre in January, with the latest in screen and sound technology and a program of classics and recent releases … watch this space for more news! Experience the festivities this month, visit www.jettytheatre. com now for further details, and Season’s Greetings from the Jetty Memorial Theatre!

COFFS COAST INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY EVENT

DAVID HELFGOTT

A celebration of inclusive community talent with a special guest performance.

Sat Dec 7th A special 55 minute version of the Christmas classic

Sat 14th18th December

SUMMER SCREEN SELECTION Coming soon to JMT

Enjoy our selection of fine alternative cinema throughout the summer holiday season. Box office hours Tuesday to Friday 12 noon - 4pm jettytheatre.com | 02 6652 8088 facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au 337 Harbour Drive

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Proudly supported by

jetty memorial theatre

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focusiinterview.

Pink Silks

Tanya Johnson is a committee member for Pink Silks Day, the race meet in January. Proceeds from Pink Silks Day are donated to cancer research.

hat is Pink Silks Day? How was it born? Pink Silks Race Day is a unique charity day that brings together a sense of community and support for all those local women challenged by illness and providing them with a fun day to share with family and friends, whilst raising funds to support them with more equipment or post treatment/surgical courses. All the funds raised stay locally to help the women and their families through this traumatic period in their lives. Pink Silks is also committed to the responsibility of providing funds bi-annually to breast cancer research, as it is hoped that one day we will find a cure. Pink Silks aims to help as many local women, over as many years as possible, with each donation given. It was born by the idea from the Racing Club's former Director, Dennis McCann's daughter Brooke McCann, who lost their wife and mother to breast cancer. They wanted to see more awareness, funding for research and assistance for sufferers and those recovering from treatment – and felt a great way to do this would be a day at the races that was also a celebration of life and survival. The concept was a hard sell in the beginning, as it was new and the gambling side stopped many from participating. But thanks to some great and generous supporters and their commitment to our community, it has become a huge success. The day provides seven races, Park Beach Plaza's Fashions On The Field (kids, pinkest outfit, best dressed lady and millinery), hospitality tables, raffles, kids' entertainment and at the end, a Monster Auction that provides some experiences that can’t normally be purchased. How have you seen this day develop over the years? Originally Pink Silks was to raise funds and 48 coffs coast focus.

awareness for breast cancer only, and all funds were sent to national research institutes. It was then apparent that there are so many other women health issues, where local awareness was needed to be focused and equipment bought to support them. We now have an annual submission form, where different groups that treat or support women’s health issues can be potential beneficiaries.

the BIG auction are raised. The Board and staff of the CHRC are crucial to the day’s overall experience and to them, we are thankful for their hard work.

And I know that you have had a personal cancer experience; how have you turned your experience in to a positive one? At 35, with no family history of breast cancer and no palpable lump, my doctor sent me for a mammogram and ultrasound, based on other clinical symptoms. Being a Radiographer On our fifth year we realised with many years of mammography the impact these funds experience and currently workhave on our community The concept was ing at CHHC, I was shocked and the support we e a hard sell in th d to be on the other side. My an w were receiving from was ne beginning, as it stopped cancer was caught very early people attending de the gambling si g. in at and the treatment aggresip ic the race day, so we many from part e great m sive due to my age. My main so branched into Pink But thanks to rs te or pp su us source of strength through it Silks merchandise. and genero t en itm m m co r all was my awesome partner, This allowed us to and thei , it has ity un m m co r now husband, AJ, my devoted expand our funds and to ou success.” ge hu a e m co family and beautiful friends. be broadly advertise our I met women who were going day. Each beneficiary supthrough this ordeal on their own. plies 10 volunteers for the This was heartbreaking and one of the day, to support the merchandise reasons I feel so strongly about Pink Silks tables, raffle items and promote the and the message we send on the day as a comday. munity – that we are all here to support each one Everyone is encouraged to wear pink and of you through this time. The other reason is that over the years we have seen more and more Pink Silks race day is a fun, family and community men wear the colour of the day. The merchandise oriented event. When you are going through any has also provided an avenue for those to support major treatment, some days are harder than others, the day financially and have something pink in their and you want one day to forget your constant fight possession. for survival. You want a day which is fun and surWhat is your involvement on the day? I am one rounded by those you love, and that day motivates of 6 committee members, along with two CHRC you to keep fighting. representatives who start organising this day in May This is the real meaning of the Pink Silks Race Day, each year. I am so privileged to be surrounded by these hard working and very passionate people, who and the fundraising is the bonus to provide what is needed locally to make the fight and recovery much give their time selflessly for the cause. On the day, easier. we are mainly ensuring everyone is having a great Thanks Tanya. time and that funds from merchandise, raffles and

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coffs coast focus

focusinterview.

Chris Fell has had an extensive cooking career in Sydney and is now the proud owner of Molly&ME, a fantastic café that's located on Orlando Street. Molly&ME boasts an unpretentious café menu, hand-made authentic macarons, caters for any occasion, plus creates a pulled pork roll that will seriously have you coming back for more!

re you from Coffs Coa Coast? st? How here? long have you lived he ere? No, I am originally I N i i ll ffrom Sydney. S d grew up in Bondi and around the eastern suburbs. I have been on the Coffs Coast since 2006; during this time I have worked at Anchors Wharf Café and now I run and operate Molly&ME Café. What formal qualifications do you have, and when did you realise that you had a passion for sweet treats? I am a qualified classically trained head chef and have been in kitchens for 20 years. It was when I was 14 I realised that food was my passion. I made it my goal to train and turn my love for food into a career. I have a love of all things sweet and delicious, and I like to create a number of handmade sweet treats. Through love and perseverance, I have achieved making the best macarons on the North Coast. Tell us about doing an apprenticeship in Sydney restaurants? What type of cooking values did this experience instill in you? Sydney is so food oriented, that most chefs who are lucky enough to do training there live and breathe all things food. It's always evolving, and the opportunity to expose yourself to all aspects of food and hospitality is huge. Being a chef is hard work, regardless of where you work ... coming from Sydney instilled an appreciation and love of the industry. I pride myself on being a diverse chef with a very sound knowledge of many cuisines. Is Molly&ME your first café? Why did you decide to open Molly&ME? Yes, Molly&ME Café is my first café. We decided to open it when the opportunity arose and we were able to make a dream come true. Every chef aspires to own and

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With the run their h own café or restaurant. Wit th th he support of our family, this dream has came true.. It has been a very exciting little market iti ttwelve l months, th as we started t t d as a littl k t stall at the Harbourside Markets and now we own a forty plus seat café. What can diners expect to experience? Diners are sure to enjoy their experience at Molly&ME Café. I am proud of our nutritious and appetising meals served in a lovely atmosphere. I offer a creative menu, a dedicated staff and a warm atmosphere to enjoy a delicious meal and coffee. Molly&ME Café is really relaxed and straightforward – this enables me to do all my home cooking in the café. I have designed a menu that is fast, nutritious and not intimidating. Molly&ME café has a BYO license; you can enjoy a nice glass or wine with the finest and freshest ingredients, which are transformed into inspired dishes from around the world. We have a children’s menu available, as well as a selection of salads, sandwiches, burgers and fish and chips. Our diners can experience a low price menu and an Artisti Di Expresso coffee and home made cake special each day. Not only do you run a successful local café; you also have a catering business. What types of events do you cater, and what is on your catering menu? We cater for all events. These include weddings, corporate functions, birthdays and seasonal parties. These events can be small to large, casual to formal and business to pleasure. With a no mess, no fuss approach to your next event, you can relax in the knowledge that our exceptional food and professional service will ensure a great success. Our catering menu has canapés, finger food, dessert platters, sandwich platters, and we look forward to expanding our catering operations to include larger events. The most popular item on the catering and café menu is our pulled pork sandwich (Bahn Mi).

W What is My Saigon Sandwich? My Saigon Sandwich is where we started M started. Molly&ME Café stems from My Saigon Sandwich stall, that we did every weekend at markets and festivals on the North Coast. My Saigon Sandwich offers our famous Bahn Mi and soft shell tacos. You can find My Saigon Sandwich over summer at the Twilight Markets on a Friday night at Coffs Creek from 5pm -9pm. What do you like best about your job? The diversity that my job brings; no day is ever the same. I also love working with my colleagues, and we work well as a team. I like the gratification you get when a customer absolutely loves your dish. I have the opportunity to train apprentices and share my knowledge and love for food with the next generation of chefs. What’s your favourite menu item? My signature dish has to be pork, either the pulled pork shoulder or the braised pork belly. Both of these are cooked for 12-14 hours in my own master stock; they are both absolutely mouth watering and full of flavour. But I do also love all things sweet and could not pick a favourite from my homemade treats. What are you looking forward to in 2014? I am looking forward to our second year in Coffs Harbour with Molly&ME Café. We are proud to have survived our first year in business with the support from our family and friends and the Coffs locals. With such a positive result from 2013, Molly&ME can only move on to bigger and better things in 2014. Molly&ME, 191A Orlando Street, (next to Mother Nature’s Fruit Market). 6658 0001.

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Picture Perfect Candles It is with great excitement that Margaret and Niels Pleysier have opened their first retail outlet of their successful and wellloved Picture Perfect Candles. The new outlet is situated at the Cinema Walk Arcade, 9 Harbour Drive in Coffs Harbour. Margaret’s all natural fragranced candles have evolved over the past 3 years and have developed a passionate following from her many loyal customers at the Harbourside markets and her online store. While extremely proud of their range of popular fragrances and colours, Margaret and Niels’ commitment to sustainability and the environment is what makes their business a standout. The focus of Picture Perfect Candles has always been on the highest quality pure soy wax, phthalate free all natural fragrances and the highest quality lead free cotton wicks

being used in their candles, without the waste of unnecessary and costly packaging. There is no paraffin used in the manufacturing process ... ever! The new shop allows the entire Picture Perfect Candle range to be hand crafted on site, enticing all with the smell and amazement of watching candles being created. Picture Perfect Candles will be open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 2pm. The online store is open 24 hours a day to pre-order your candles for pick up or delivery. Picture Perfect Candles can also custom create candles for special occasions such as weddings, baby namings, christenings, sympathy, birthdays and Christmas. Call in to the store, or make an enquiry online at www.pictureperfectcandles.com.au or email candles@pictureperfectcandles.com.au

Spring Herb and Parmesan

Quinoa Cakes SHOW US YOUR DISH COMPETITION WINNER Created By Shahni Smith.

I NG R E D I E N T S 3 cups cooked quinoa, cooled

½ cup grated parmesan

2 tbsp chopped spring onion

1½ cup bread crumbs, multigrain or white

2 tbsp chopped mint

3 tbsp oil

2 tbsp chopped parsley

Grated parmesan and lemon cheek to serve

1 egg, lightly beaten

Makes 8 - 10 cakes or 15 small cakes

1 tbsp garlic, minced

Preparation Time: 90 mins

1 lemon, rind finely grated, plus the juice

Cooking time: 6 mins

METHOD • To cook quinoa, place 1½ cups of quinoa into a sieve and rinse under running water. • Transfer to a pot with 2½ cups of water; add a pinch of salt. • Bring to the boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. • Put in the fridge to cool. • Combined all ingredients in a large bowl but the quinoa, egg and bread crumbs. • Mix in the cooked quinoa, egg and breadcrumbs into the mixture until fully incorporated and even. Season with salt and pepper to taste. • Roll the quinoa mixture into patties.

• Heat a large fry pan to medium - high heat, add oil to pan and cook cakes in batches for roughly 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown (be careful not to flip too early, or they may fall apart). • Serve with freshly grated parmesan on top and a lemon cheek.

NO T E S These quinoa cakes are very versatile, as you can add your own preference as you please by adding cooked meat or fish such as salmon to the cakes. Also, they can be gluten-free by not adding the bread crumbs and instead leaving the mixture in the fridge to firm up before cooking. If you want them vegan, do the same, but don’t add the egg either. coffs coast focus 51

focusinterview.

Etiquette + Image + Respect Impress for Success is the School of Etiquette and Image training on the Coffs Coast, run by Gina Szary and her professional team. Impress for Success offers an Etiquette and Image program to assist students in personal presentation, selfdevelopment and self-confidence for social and business engagement in every day life. Courses are suitable for girls and boys - juniors, teenagers and adults of all ages and stages in life. Modules include: Image and Style, Beauty, Deportment and Modelling, Dining Etiquette, Business and Social Etiquette, Entertaining, Communication Skills, Body Image / Body Language, Customer Service, Public Speaking and Netiquette.

The old Holiday Lanes bowling alley y located on Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour bour is now Club 300 Bowling & Bar!

Upon completion of each course students are presented with a Certificate.

CLUB

The course is the perfect gift for your grandchild, daughter, son, niece, nephew ... We offer personal tuition and regular programs; ideal for school leavers, formals or functions. We assist young adults in preparing for job interviews and job seeking.

Gift Vouchers available. Like us on Facebook!

hat's your new tables, a lift, direct access to a laser tag news? arena. All scores can also be synced to The name Club 300 Facebook! Bowling Do you cater for Christmas & Bar was chosen, as functions? 300 is the perfect Yes, why not consider score in bowling. having your Christmas Over the next 12 Under new a party at Club 300? e se ill months w management, e, af r/c ba Loads of fun for all w ne VIP area, ts or renamed sp , om ro the staff and family. e ok kara es, a lift, Club 300 Bowling and catering lounge, pool tabl ser tag a la Bowling & Bar, direct access to packages available. can also arena. All scores renovations !.” ok bo ce Fa to Childrens birthday be synced commenced in parties are also a October 2013 to specialty at Club 300.. create the premium Mum and Dad can relax while entertainment centre one of our friendly party hosts on the Coffs Coast. Stage look after the children. one was recently completed Corporate Functions? Yes of course! and included upgrades behind Fully licensed bar and cafe. Tasty easy the scenes, on the lanes including menu and cold drinks, great coffee and automated bumpers. The latest state of affordable prices for the whole family. the art integrated scoring system from But it's not only a night out the USA and a Nightlife Music system for the kids, tell us about adult with free jukebox. Over the next 12 entertainment? months will see a VIP area, new bar/ From two to 92 years of age. Bowling cafe, karaoke room, sports lounge, pool

“

coffs coast focus.

is for all ages. We often see three generations here. It’s fantastic to watch the grandparents, parents and children interacting, laughing and bowling as a family! We enjoy regular visits from many service groups in the community who quickly fill the venue with laughter. We are so excited to be installing a lift catering for disabled and aged service groups. Competitions are fun. We have league competitions three nights a week. New players are always welcome. We recently hosted the Country Challenge which is a state competition and many competitors bowled their highest ever average – include one bowler scoring a perfect 300!

the plug! Club 300 Bowling & Bar 74 /76 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour Phone. 6652 5665 http://www.club300.com.au

coffs coast focus 53

focusinterview.

Ebb n Flo is one of the Coffs region's favourite musical acts. With their Reggae infused sound, they will be playing a free show at Moonee Tavern, Saturday 28 December.

ow did Ebb n Flo first get together? What is the story behind this great band? In the beginning, some of us played in other bands together, grew up together and in the local music scene we found our first line up, Ebb ‘n’ Flo. Our story starts when we kicked off in 2009, released our debut EP, House of Love, then began touring regularly, including shows with Black Sorrows, Beautiful Girls, Bliss n Eso, Katchafire, to name a few. We played a sold out show at The Basement in Sydney with Afro Moses and toured from Sydney to Brisbane countless times. Ebb n Flo then headlined their own tour of New Zealand, before returning to Oz, and being nominated for the Music Oz Awards in two categories, Blues/Roots award and People’s Choice award. We have played a bunch of festivals, including Open Arms Festival, Festival of the Sun, Subsonic Festival and Waitangi Day Festivals on the Gold Coast.

It's a lot of work going back and forth. I am the drummer in the band. Did you grow up in a musical family? Is that why you've lived a life full of music? (Laughs). That is it in a nutshell. As long as I can remember, my life has been full of music. Since about the age of three I have had drum sticks in my hand. Not only is my dad a drummer, my parents and my sister all run an entertainment/ booking agency. So, since I was a baby I have been surrounded by bands and musicians. I've grown up in pubs, clubs, festivals and after parties. My earliest memories are Dad giving me drum lessons and insisting I get up and play a song or two with him at his gigs. Coming into my teens, I was introduced to Reggae oriented music; this was influenced by my best mate, Marty and his dad, Eddie, who taught me the foundations of Reggae, along with other close mates who have all contributed to my love and passion and my learning journey. Music is and always will be such a huge part of my life.

We received radio airplay locally and in Western Australia and New Zealand, Fiji, Canada, Hawaii, and New York.

I still now continue to learn new things and push the boundaries of my playing, thanks to the people I surround myself with. My dream was always to find a band like Ebb n Flo.

What is your role in the band? All of us band members have what we call 'a long distance relationship'. It's been like this since day one. We have band members who live in Sydney, Woollongong, Central Coast and Coffs Coast.

You have a massive following on the Coffs Coast. What do you love about playing in your home town? There’s no place like home (laughs). My home town has shown us unbelievable support. It’s great to look out in the crowd

54 coffs coast focus.

and see familiar faces, singing back to you, your own songs. Nothing beats that. It drives the band and gives us energy to perform at our best.

everyone living in different cities is just one of them. Yet, despite all struggles, our music holds us together, and we know we have something great to share and offer to our people.

What has been your most memorable career moment? Opening for We will take a break from playing Festival of the Sun, starting off live shows for a while and conwith an audience of about centrate on recording and five people; after the producing some exciting ue in fifth song, there would new tunes we have. nt co I still now gs in th w have been about 2,500 ne n Our keyboard vocalist, to lear undaries people – we dragged Marley, now has his and push the bo anks to them out of their own studio up and of my playing, th nd ou tents pretty quickly! the people I surr eam running in Sydney, dr Another memorable myself with. My a band where we will be d moment would be our was always to fin spending valuable like Eb b n Flo.” tour to NZ, headlining time. our own shows with speMarty has a back catacial guests Willie Hona (The logue of songs we are workHerbs, Hall of Fame legend) ing on, as do our other Flo Bros and Zionhill. Marley, Troy, Nicko and Tyson, so the What gigs do you have coming up lofuture is looking bright, fresh, new and cally? Ebb n Flo have Saturday 28 December very exciting for us. at the Moonee Beach Tavern, for an outdoor, For the founding members, this road is five years beer garden, free entry show! This is going to long, and we still have plenty left in the tank. be a very special show for us, as we farewell and Interview with drummer Micky Seccombe. send off our bro, Reo, for his final show with the Flo. It’s been one hell of a journey with Reo, and we wish him and his family only the best. We the plug! hope everyone comes along to give Reo the send off he deserves. Saturday 28 December, What is your 2014 resolution? What do Moonee Beach Tavern. you hope to achieve in the coming new Free show. year? We, as a band, have had lots of hurdles;

“

THE DEATH OF PRINT HAS BEEN GREATLY EXAGERATED IMAGE MATTERS a monthly feature by

saso.creative

Make music with friends Sally O’Brien plays violin at the Opera House with the SSO and Concertgebouw Orchestra. At the end of November, one of our Coffs Con students will be performing with one of the world’s leading orchestras touring Australia for the first time. Sally will be joining other lucky regional conservatorium students from around NSW for an intensive two-day workshop in the Sydney Opera House. They will be practicing Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony and Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite, which is part of the programme to be performed live by the Concertgebouw during their world tour. Sally picked up a violin when she was six and after begging her parents for three years, was given her first instrument at 9 years of age, which is when she started studying with Coffs Con tutor Barbara Crosbie. Music is a major part of Sally’s life as a Year 11 Senior College student. “I feel extremely fortunate to be able to participate in this programme. It involves me working with the Concertgebouw and watching the Opera House concert free of charge. I am so excited to participate. My parents and sister have been a massive support and are gracious with all of the sacrifices they have made to keep me doing what I love.”

Youth Directions Youth Directions wishes to say thank you to the many people and organisations who have contributed to improving opportunities for young people through our various programs and initiatives from Macksville to Maclean in 2013. Thank you to the many high school and TAFE teachers, Principals, Head Teachers, VET teachers and co-ordinators and careers advisers who have supported school business community partnerships, workplace learning for HSC students, at risk youth programs and activities, mentoring arrangements and careers, employment and employability initiatives. Thank you to the business and industry representatives who have engaged young people directly in their workplaces and who have actively assisted them to develop work readiness, industry-specific and career preparation skills. Thank you to those businesses that mentored young people, participated in innovative and entrepreneurial initiatives, or dedicated time and resources to support disadvantaged young people. Thank you also to the community organisations and networks that worked in collaboration with Youth Directions and who facilitated opportunities for combined effort to achieve much more than any one organisation could possibly do. Youth Directions looks forward to working with you once again in 2014, and welcomes enquiries from people and organisations who are interested in supporting our various programs and activities.

Online marketing is the ducks nuts, right? It’s hip, it’s cost effective, it’s results driven – why would anyone bother with any other form of marketing? Well, just hold on there: here are seven reasons why print marketing should be part of your marketing mix. Branding: Is your business differentiated in our local area? Branding is essential for creating trust and repeat business on a local level. For many local businesses, street signage, vehicle livery, brochures and flyers will generate as good a return-on-investment as online marketing is likely to do. What’s old is new again: Getting noticed is often about doing things differently. If your competitors are pouring their marketing spend into online tactics, then a little bit of print may be all you need to stand out. Depending on your business, a good ol’ fashioned mail drop – done well – may get better results than your globally focused MailChimp campaign. Mail is the new email. Perceptions of value: Print carries a perception of value that most web-based marketing doesn’t match. Send your client an email, and 90% of ’em will bin it; send them a brochure, flyer or other direct mail piece, and 64% will hang onto it. Lies, damned lies and statistics: I know, I know. But if this stat is even half true, it’s worth noting: 80% of physical mail is opened, only 20% of email is opened. More responsive: Forget the buzz relating to mobile websites. In the traditional sense, the response rate for email-based marketing is 0.12%; the response rate for traditional direct mail marketing is almost 5%. That’s more than 40 times better. 40! Lead generation: Even for web-based businesses, print has its place. Various studies have shown that two-thirds of online purchases are driven by print marketing, and that print marketing carries a better online purchasing conversion rate than online marketing alone. Why are you still reading this? Bing! Next month’s Image Matters feature: Focus on Branding.

saso.creative

TARGETED DESIGN

FOR YOUR BUSINESS EEDS IF IT NS E N, TO BE E

PRINT IT!

WEB DESIGN PRINT DESIGN PACKAGING

LOGO DESIGN ◎ BRANDING COPYWRITING

www.sasocreative.com.au

6658 7666

coffs coast focus 55

with Go Vita Coffs Central Ph: 6652 2993

By Nicola Taylor - Director Girlfit

Desperately

G SEEKIZN IN' SNOO

Go Vita traceyhayes.

Adaptogens Nature’s Fatigue Fighters

am finding more and more women are having problems sleeping. We seem to fall asleep OK, but often wake around 2am staring at the roof ... sound familiar? I can tell you, you’re far from alone. I did some homework, and insomnia is the second most common medical complaint, with almost half of all adults experiencing symptoms a few nights a week.

Get outdoors; exercise! Exercise improves restful sleep, but do not do just before bedtime. Exercising in the sun is also important. Sunlight produces melatonin, a sleep promoting substance.

D on’t let a bad night's sleep y ruin your day. Tr to s tip g in w the follo nia m so in k oc kn help !” on the head

“

Don’t let a bad night's sleep ruin your day. Try the following tips to help knock insomnia on the head! Use your bed for sleep and sex only. The brain makes connections between places and events, so don’t use your bedroom as a living room – no knitting, playing computer games, Facebook or TV.

Make your bedroom a sanctuary. Keep it dark, cool and no ticking clocks! Try not to share your bed with kids or pets. No thermogenics after lunch or caffeine based drinks. If you find yourself wide awake, get up and do something productive; when you feel sleepy, go back to bed.

our adrenal glands are each no bigger than a walnut and weigh less than a grape, yet are responsible for one of the most important functions in your body: managing stress. Ironically, although your adrenal glands are there, in large part, to help you cope with stress, too much of it is actually what causes their function to break down, leading to adrenal fatigue. As the names implies, the most common symptom of adrenal fatigue is unrelenting fatigue, a feeling of being run down or not able to keep up with your daily demands. Tiredness (even despite a good night’s sleep), nervous exhaustion and physical weakness are typical symptoms of adrenal fatigue. While quick fixes like energy drinks, coffee and sugary snacks are tempting, they will just deplete your energy further.

Happy snoozing, and see you on the beach for some Girlfit sun loving exercise. Until next month, Nic.

Here, Go Vita Coffs Central Naturopath Tracey Hayes explains how herbs can help prevent adrenal fatigue and burnout and ultimately replenish your energy levels.

the plug!

Enter Herbal Adaptogens, a unique class of healing plants that help strengthen your body’s response to stress, enhance its ability to cope with anxiety and help to maintain normal body functioning during stress. They powerfully but gently help balance, restore and protect the body.

Nicola Taylor – Director Girlfit 0417 045 825.

So here are just a few of these herbal gems … Ashwagandha (also known as Withania) has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine. It increases vitality, energy, endurance and stamina, promotes longevity and improves low libido associated with anxiety or exhaustion. It is best known as a rejuvenative herb with profound antistress activity together with mild sedative and cognitive enhancing properties (helps you think clearer). It’s a gentle, nourishing herb that can give your morning exercise routine a boost, or, when taken prior to bed, it can 56 coffs coast focus.

help you get a good night’s sleep. Ayurvedic healers have long prescribed the herb to treat exhaustion brought on by both physical and mental strain. Rhodiola (rhodiola rosea), or golden root, is a potent adaptogen that has been the focus of much research. Rhodiola increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of our red blood cells, making it particularly effective at increasing energy, vitality and stamina during times of stress. Research has also revealed that Rhodiola helps mild to moderate depression, improves mental performance, concentration and memory when under stress. It has a calming effect on your body and mental state because of its ability to reduce cortisol, one of our major stress hormones. Some cortisol is absolutely necessary to live, but you need to keep it at appropriate levels throughout the day. Siberian Ginseng (not to be confused with other Ginsengs … they are all very different) is considered to be a medicinal treasure trove in Chinese Medicine. Siberian Ginseng is traditionally used as an invigorating tonic during times of stress, convalescence, fatigue, debility and also assists in maintaining a healthy nervous and immune system. In Traditional Chinese medicine it is prescribed to reinforce the qi (life force) and calm the nerves. Studies conclude that Siberian Ginseng improves the body’s stress response and is a very effective herb to treat nervous exhaustion due to chronic stress exposure. The plant world is incredible and is forever supplying us with what we need in order to thrive on this planet. Incorporating adaptogenic herbs into your daily regime can help you cope during stressful times … times like now! Need to know more? Just ask the Naturopaths and Medical Herbalists in store at Coffs Central.

with Renee Atkins, owner Beach Bodies Health Club

Do I need to

supplement with vitamins? If you eat a fresh, clean diet, full of a variety of organic produce and meat, generally speaking, no ... you should not need to supplement with vitamins.

owever, most of us do not live this way and will often find that our diet is lacking in many areas, or we have an imbalance of vitamins in our diet.

Vitamins play an important role in keeping the body healthy. However, taking large doses of certain vitamins can actually be harmful. Proper balance and adequate levels of essential nutrients is important for a range of complex processes in our body. When vitamins are taken as When vitamins supplements, they are often are taken as ey are introduced into the body at supplements, th into levels that could never be often introduced ls that achieved by eating even the the body at leve achieved could never be healthiest of diets.

When taking any form of supplements, you must be aware of the positive and negative aspects. It is highly recommended that you buy them from a health food store, where you can ask questions about your symptoms and get e by eating even th the right advice for you. People Simply taking a vitamin pill is s.” et di of st healthie who are advised by their doctor not an instant fix for feeling run that they need to take vitamin down or lacking in energy. It is supplements are encouraged to the combination of a whole range of consult a dietician, who can work with compounds (most of which we probably their doctor to provide dietary advice related to don’t even know about) in plant foods that the person’s situation. gives us our health.

“

coffs coast focus 57

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kombu The Coffs Coast is not only a stunning part of the world to visit, but also provides some of the best growing conditions on the East Coast. Steve Young Photography

ocal climate zones vary from frost-free coastal living to steamy hinterland valleys and then up into the frosty (and at times snowy) mountain ranges. Combine that variety with fertile land and some of the most reliable rainfall in Australia, and you have the potential for a local food paradise.

We have been increasing our range and availability ever since and now employ a local food coordinator, who talks to and works with our growers every week. On top of that we now have a new market in town on alternate Fridays offering even more local organic produce and products, which is great!”

As Kevin highlights, like many With that in mind, the things in life local food team at thriving oris a partnership, “not ganic grocery and only with the growon s The focu al ci healthy living ers, but also with so d an eco e uc store Kombu our customers as od pr friendly ed lp he ts Wholefoods uc well. It is great to od pr and e th in w e have been see those relationor st e th nce working to ships develop and award for Excelle y at in Sustainabilit promote and mature over the ys the recent Sunn stock as wide a years, and it is a .” ds ar Business Aw range of chemical privilege to not only free/organic local serve our growing cusproduce as possible tomer base but also to for close on ten years. work with such a passionate With a dedicated local produce group of local farmers. They put coordinator, the range has been their heart and soul into what they growing year on year, and they do, and I see it as our role to support now offer some of the best local and them and promote their delicious affordregional produce available on the Coffs able produce whenever we can.” Coast. When produce is not available locally,

“

According to store partner Kevin Doye, the increasing availability of local food is a win for everyone: “When we first moved to Bellingen ten years ago, local food was only available at the fortnightly markets. We wanted affordable fresh local chemical free and organic food for our family, so decided to open Kombu.

58 coffs coast focus.

the team source from regional markets, ensuring an ongoing variety in store. With the aim of being an eco-friendly one-stop shop for everything their customers could need, the produce has been complemented by over 2,500 other products, ranging from organic meat through hundreds of affordable

bulk lines to natural cosmetics and hair care. The focus on eco and social friendly produce and products helped the store win the award for Excellence in Sustainability at the recent Sunnys Business Awards. With that award in mind, the store has just opened a new zero waste healthy takeaway food bar. With a range of delicious and affordable wraps, nori, salads and organic drinks available (and not a waste bin in sight) it looks like the latest venture will follow in the footsteps of other in store initiatives and prove as popular as the produce is now. Kombu can be found at the end of Church Street in Bellingen, next to the lookout. The store is open Monday to Saturday, with the equally busy online store offering free delivery across Eastern Australia and open for business 24/7. Kombu Wholefoods 1 Church St, Bellingen NSW 2454 www.kombuwholefoods.com.au 1300 741 192. Try some local food: Bellopy Produce Markets – in town at the Anglican Church grounds on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Friday of each month. Community Markets – in town at the Showgrounds on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month. Monthly Markets – in town at the Market Park on the 3rd Saturday of the month.

New Year 21 day Yoga and Pilates Challenge I have been using Pilates, GYROTONIC®,GYROKINESIS® and yoga to condition my own body for 27 years. These methods have helped me rehabilitate physical injuries from a professional dance career, recondition after 2 births and have supported me mentally and emotionally. I have now been teaching a combination of these methods for 14 years, and I continually witness the huge benefits they bring to my clients. Some examples of past and present client issues include: chronic back/neck/pelvic pain, scoliosis, Osteoporosis, neurological conditions, pre natal and post partum conditioning, cancer patients, knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, ankle injuries, anxiety and depression. My clients range from couch potatoes who have never moved or done any exercise before but now love it, to athletes, dancers and dance teachers, yoga, pilates, fitness instructors, business and medical professionals, children, teenagers, the elderly and injured. Start positive habits for the New Year and kick it off to a good start. Join us for a 21 Day Yoga and Pilates challenge, 6 - 26 January 2014. Studio OPEN DAY Saturday 4 January. Free classes and massages. Yoga/athletic wear and classes to be won. Receive the benefits from a variety of conditioning styles. We will incorporate Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga, restorative yoga and meditation, Pilates and GYROKINESIS®. $199 (including book) normal cost valued at $350.

Metaqua It works WINNER OF THIS YEAR’S ‘NEW BUSINESS’ SUNNY AWARDS. Metaqua ™ is a water exercise program suitable for all ages, fitness and swimming levels. The head remains above the water and the pools are heated. Using fins and a kick board, all areas of the body are able to be targeted at your own pace. It's not lap swimming nor aqua aerobics, but is a low impact way to get fit at whatever level you start from. The non-competitive gentle nature of this type of exercise provides many benefits.

Summer is here! Time to give the skin a boost with a lactic peel to exfoliate and keep the skin healthy. Environs Cool Skin Peeling system is effective but gentle. Peels are incorporated into a facial for optimum results using the sonophoresis (ultrasound) machine for maximum infusion of colostrum, vita A and C, followed by the intensive Environ Alginate Mask. Special Christmas packs are coming in weekly for Environ

If you would like to learn all these skills, then a ONE OFF Fee of $30 applies to swim at the Coffs Aquatic and Olympic Pool or $45 at Pacific Bay Resort. Then you pay as you go per session. This varies from $12 to $14, depending on the venue you choose. All prices include the pool entry. I teach Metaqua in the privacy of your own home, with house calls starting at $45. For more information, check out my website at www.metaqua.com.au or email me at sal@metaqua.com. au or call 0418 622 696.

and ASAP – great savings on these products – so drop in and

Learn Metaqua ™ IT WORKS!

See you soon, Jan.

check out what is on the shelves! Special Environ with Peel Facial – 1 hr, $80, including eyebrow wax complimentary. Starting December – Christmas Pamper Packs will be displayed on the ad board outside the salon – vouchers available – for all $ values – purchase a pamper pack and you will SAVE 25-30% on these packages.

• with Suzanne McCarty • Classes and studio sessions for total body conditioning, rehabilitation and well being. Studio boutique stocking Yoga, Athlethic wear and accessories.

Jan Young?

Remedial Massage. Fully Equipped Professional Pilates Studio. Low impact sprung floor.

coffs coast focus 59

Southern Cross Skin Cancer & Wound Clinic Our new clinic at 9 Murdock Street continues to evolve into what we anticipate will become the centre of excellence for the provision of health care in the areas of skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as in wound care and select cosmetic procedures. Our clinical staff are all highly qualified and between them have many years of experience in their special interest fields. Not all skin cancers require surgery, with a number of non-surgical options for certain types of cancers providing excellent outcomes. We will assess and recommend the best available option for each individual. There are many causes for chronic wounds, such as leg ulcers, and we specialise in trying to identify underlying causes, which when corrected, and with appropriate wound management, will often cure ulcers that might otherwise take a very long time to heal. Dr Beck and Sr Fowler have received personalised training from Dr Des Fernandes, one of the Plastic Surgeons who discovered how to induce natural collagen formation by a simple technique, done under local anaesthetic cream, to improve fine facial lines and wrinkles and also stretch marks elsewhere on the body. We continue to supply a full range of Environ products also developed by Dr Fernandes for general skin care.

Dr Margaret Kleinig BDSc QLD Margaret has worked as a dental surgeon for 35 years now, after graduating from the University of Queensland in 1978. Within her impressive career she has worked for 6 years in the public health system, as well as 15 years in her own practice. Dr. Margaret Kleinig is one of the most experienced dental surgeons in our team. She generally prefers a conservative approach to dentistry with minimal intervention and also has quite a fascination for cosmetic dentistry.

Colonic Irrigation is now available on the coast! Operating from a beautiful, private and hygienic space in Sawtell, Kate Cooke offers Nutritional support, Remedial

Margaret’s interests, apart from dentistry, include bushwalking, reading and a passion for scuba diving. Yet, what has kept Margaret close by has been the beauty she sees in coastal country towns, the magnificent climate and of course, the people who make up the community.

Massage, Far Infrared Sauna, and Colon Hydrotherapy. Past

Margaret has been working from our Grafton and Urunga practices for the past 4 years and has recently started welcoming all her patients to our Coffs Harbour practice. She is currently working in Coffs Harbour on a Friday from 9am through ‘til 3pm. Margaret is no longer working from our Urunga practice, but we still have Sharon, Ben, Ruth, Emma and Wendy working at Urunga from Tuesday through ‘til Friday.

Although the Silly Season is well and truly upon us, with

If you would like further information on what our practice can offer you, log onto www.freshdentalcare.com.au

or email Kate on kate@flushedwithhealth.com.au

Because

Smilintganist! Impor Ɣ

Professional Ɣ Gentle Ɣ Caring

Dr Margaret Kleinig would like to welcome all her patients to our Coffs Harbour Practice.

Grafton

Coffs Harbour

Cnr Queen & Victoria Streets

Suite 1, 252 Harbour Drive

6643 2225

6651 1350

Urunga

Macksville

46 Bonville Street

1 Princess Street

6655 5800

6568 1335

Scan to visit our website w www.freshdentalcare.com.au

60 coffs coast focus.

When you feel like sh*t

clients know Kate from Bellingen, where she has been lucky enough to work for the last twelve years. She looks forward to assisting previous, current and future clients from her new base in Sawtell. parties and social events at every turn urging us to indulge our inner glutton, it’s worth knowing that at the end of the madness (think New Year’s Day and its assorted resolutions), there’s terrific support to detox and cleanse, on your doorstep. For more information, see www.flushedwithhealth.com.au or ph or text 0448 554 096.

The RADICAL ABDOMINOPLASTY OPERATION ‘Tummy TUCK’

he gradual increase in girth in pregnancy and in weight gain causes tissue-expansion and stretching.

When the above situation is reversed, i.e. after delivery of a baby or weight loss, there are different types of reversal in the various tissues affected. Muscles do best and can almost recover completely. The two large columns of muscles in the anterior abdominal wall, the right and left Rectus Abdominus muscles, which give great strength to the anterior abdominal wall as well as the back, are such examples. The fascia covering these muscles, a strong sleeve around the muscles and fused (attached) in the midline, stretch up to a point before further stretch causes irreversible damage.

When the muscle recovers, the fascia does not, and this results in a weak and stretched midline. Instead of a fused midline keeping the muscles together, the central stretched ellipse of fascia causes the muscles to be separated, weakening the anterior abdominal wall as well as the back. This ‘divarication or diastasis’ of the muscles is equivalent to a midline hernia and causes significant weakening of the anterior abdominal wall, and protrusion of the abdominal contents, especially in the standing position. The correction The radical abdominoplasty procedure described by Dr. Ivor Pitanguy, the doyen of Brazilian plasticsurgery, is an excellent operation which fixes this problem very well. The surgery results in the re-

establishment of the central fascial fusion, with the muscles back together in the midline and with recovery of strength and contour. A bonus of this operation is the removal of a good amount of skin and fat from the anterior abdominal wall. The surgery is major, needing general anaesthesia and hospitalisation as well as time for recovery, but the excellent resolution of the problem makes it all worthwhile. Recurrent abdominal wall hernias. An extension of this technique is the use in the correction of recurrent abdominal wall hernias, resulting from multiple previous operations and attempted hernia repairs. A very significant advantage of this type of repair is the avoidance of the use of synthetic mesh grafts with its many attendant problems.

coffs coast focus 61

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

HOW TO CLIMB o u t

o f

y o u r

Last month we caught up with Kirsten to hear all about her preparation, but now it’s show time … did she actually go through with it?

PART II limited my food intake to only protein and no carbohydrates, food and exercise diary. We had to parade one by one in our but still training. It’s amazing where your mind can take bikinis. There were so many amazing bikinis, and not one you your body. I remember being quite emotional doing the last could swim in! I walked calmly in my 5 inch high heels, held workout before the event. My water intake was also heavily my newly learnt poses, flexed my muscles proudly, pushed my reduced in order to create muscle definition, to make shoulders back and put my best smiley face on for the your body look the best it can. On the day, the judges. I took my time on stage, soaking in the preening and prepping is quite intense, with atmosphere and recalling my personal journey to get this far. I knew this was a subjective heavy makeup, fancy hair and fake tan. It d I had naile se competition, but I secretly hoped they was a foreign process to me, but many ci er my ex , es m gi liked the colour of my emerald green girls looked quite comfortable and re g and eatin ble ta un co ac bikini. Our active wear and evening obviously had done it all many times d ne remai y m , rs ne ai tr sections were both paraded with before. The competition itself was a y m to ddy the 21 of us all on stage at once. I lesson in patience after no food and online training bu to didn’t win, nor did I place, but I did and most of all limited water for hours. The room was my myself, through do it. I had pushed myself out of my big with dimmed lights, a bright, albeit se ci food and exer happy comfortable place into a world of small stage, and maybe 1,000 people. I diary.” the unknown. This was a very personal have never, ever, seen so many amazingly journey, both physically and mentally, and fit, buffed, athletic bodies in one room I learnt so much about myself (and others!) before, tantamount to how I’d imagine Ken and during the journey. A huge thank you to my trainers Barbie’s heaven to be! There were 21 amazing looking Glen Barnett and Steve Marquette from Coffs Coast Health women in my division (at 45, I was one of the oldest). We had a bikini section, active wear and evening wear sections. I wasn’t Club – two incredible, yet different trainers who trained me hard and took me to places I didn’t know I could go. nervous. I was so well prepared. There was nothing I would have changed leading up to the event. I had nailed my exercise Thanks again, Kirsten, for sharing such a personal and eating regimes, remained accountable to my trainers, my experience, and we look forward to helping you with online training buddy and most of all to myself, through my your next comfort zone challenge …

“

continue with my fitness journey story by stepping right out of my comfort zone and right onto a stage full of glamorous ‘Fitness Models’ in the Australian Nationals Fitness Model Championships. The day before the event, we drove to Sydney. The car was loaded with all the essentials: shoes, outfits, jewellery, props, makeup, the essential fake tan and rescue remedy! I had been on a 5 day ‘depletion’, having

62 coffs coast focus.

in Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour blood donor Kenneth Pilcher has an impressive history as a lifesaver. Mr Pilcher started donating blood more than 34 years ago, and has chalked up more than 170 donations and helped save the lives of 510 patients in need. r Pilcher was one of the first blood plasma donors in Coffs Harbour and witnessed the need for blood first hand while working in pathology.

donations take slightly longer than a regular blood donation, donors can donate more frequently.

“It’s a small amount of time to give up when you know that there are people out there who need it. I’ve seen firsthand how blood can help others.”

Plasma donation separates your oxygen carrying red cells from the plasma and returns those cells to you during the process, along with saline to help boost your blood volume, which is why you can donate more frequently.

The Blood Service is calling for more blood plasma donations in Coffs Harbour to help meet growing demand from patients for the miracle liquid. Plasma is the gold-coloured liquid part of the blood and is used to make as many 18 life-saving medical products to treat many conditions ranging from autoimmune disorders to burns.

t As a mum, I wan ne yo er to thank ev s nates, who give do ho w by ba y m at th so selflessly n rs ca and many othe ance . For ch r he ot an have azing am me, that is an gift .” ny. - Ivy’s m um , Tiffa

“

Red Cross Blood Service spokesperson Renee Chapman said while plasma

“Coffs Harbour Donor Centre is encouraging the community to try giving plasma,” said Renee Chapman.

The Blood Service needs more than 27,000 blood, plasma and platelet donations every week. To discuss giving plasma, call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au IVY’S STORY Eight year old Ivy owes her life to the generosity of hundreds of blood donors. Ivy and her twin brother, Noah, were born 10 weeks premature. While Noah grew up to be a healthy child, Ivy

was constantly falling ill, resulting in numerous visits to hospital. Ivy was finally diagnosed with an immune deficiency disorder, leaving her body unable to fight off infection. Every day became difficult, with the constant fear that a common infection would become life threatening. After her diagnosis, doctors began treating Ivy with IVIg, a product made from donated plasma. Infused into her body every three weeks, IVIg compensates Ivy’s inability to produce immune molecules that fight infections. Ivy is just one of the thousands of Australians who depend on plasma. Ivy’s mum, Tiffany says: “Donating plasma can make such a big difference for someone like our girl. As a mum, I want to thank everyone who donates, who gives selflessly so that my baby and many others can have another chance. For me, that is an amazing gift.”

ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES AND GIVE BLOOD IN COFFS HARBOUR Coffs Harbour Blood Donor Centre 252 Paciﬁc Highway Call 13 95 96 or visit donateblood.com.au coffs coast focus 63

Pay nothing until February 2014.

Want to get fit and save money? For a limited time at beachbodies you can join on our standard 12 month membership and pay NOTHING* until February 2014! That’s right – no membership fees* until

COFFS

PHYSIOTHERAPY & BACKCARE So it is in the brain? Recent TV documenatries have demonstrated how to keep our brain active as we age. Our Physios use this new understanding of brain function to help those suffering from neuropathic pain.

February – you will have full access to the club during staffed hours and access to all group fitness classes! There is no excuse and the sooner you join – the more you save! LLocated down at the Jetty, beachbodies is the lilifestyle gym – with a selection of cafés to enjoy aafter a class – or enjoy the beaches or mutton b bird at the end of your workout. With a team of fitness professionals who care W

he past two decades has seen an ‘déjà vu.’ Well, the brain not only registers explosion in our understanding the ‘danger’ message coming up from the as to why we feel pain, and tissue, but also remembers past injuries, guess what – ‘the issue isn’t all recognises your fears to avoid more pain, in the tissue!’ We used to think that your anxiety of the nagging boss pain always came from damaged or upcoming exam, and then tissues, torn muscles, sprained arrives at a decision that ligament, or pinched it has decided will keep But sometimes nerves. We now know you safe from harm. the brain, just that many chronic pain However, sometimes ain and simple, pl states are actually driven these extraneous issues ve gets it wrong! We’ à éj by the brain! The pain drive the brain to ‘d d ce en ri all expe we experience is the become ‘over-protective’ vu.’” outcome of the brain's and result in what pain response when it has put specialists call ‘Central all the information available Sensitisation’– meaning that to it together, summarised what the pain is being driven not by it thinks is going on, and arriving at a any damage in the tissues, but by the response primarily aimed at keeping you safe brain itself. from further harm – and let’s face it, if you are Incorporating the latest science of ‘retraining in pain, then you are not going to move and the brain’ in your home exercise routine do yourself any more ‘harm!’ assists many sufferers of chronic neck and

“

But sometimes the brain, just plain and simple, gets it wrong! We’ve all experienced

64 coffs coast focus.

back pain, sciatica or various nerve injuries. And it can be fun – try it!

about and understand your fitness journey,

we are here and eager to help your reach your goals – whatever they may be. From athletes, to pregnancy, those just getting started or those who need the extra push – the team at beachbodies are ready to help you. Beachbodies has an onsite crèche that operates 6 mornings and 5 nights a week with fully qualified staff – the kids will love coming to the gym as much as you will! Beachbodies also has the option of a 24 hour upgrade membership – so you can train whenever you like in a safe and secure environment. BeachBodies health club 24/7 ... that’s my gym! *Terms and conditions apply – see the club for more details.

Cottage News

We’re here for working families.

School readiness 'Ready Children' There is no doubt that there is a lot of interest in starting school. It is clear to me after the many discussions I have had with parents over my last 20 years in the child care industry, that the very same thought process are still provoked in parents when a child becomes of school age, that of whether or not children are deemed 'ready' for school. The term being 'ready' for school has in time reflected a broad holistic capacity of a child to be developmentally, academic, socioemotional competent and to obtain certain physical skills and qualities to enable them to smoothly transition to school. Educators in the early childhood industry, however, can argue that the past assessment measures are now just too narrow in their assessment. Our educators can argue that to be effective, current approaches to school transition must have a multidimensional focus. The definition of school readiness should be expanded to now incorporate all aspects of a child’s life that contribute directly to that child’s ability to learn. Children’s readiness is therefore seen as only one element to consider, rather than the defining feature. Ready early childhood services, ready schools/ communities and ready families should also be considered as key elements to making a successful transition to school for all stakeholders involved. Beginning school is unarguably a key transition phase within early childhood; even for those children attending early childhood services, school can still represent a new environment with potentially different structural approaches. The context in which children start school has a major influence on the nature and success of the experience; some might even go as far to say that the transition to school will set the pattern for inclusion or exclusion and engagement or non participation, with education for that child’s schooling life. With this in mind, one might say we had better get it right. When looking at a family’s readiness, families

Azur Cosmedica need to consider the current position of the family unit to decide whether they are able to provide at this moment the necessary opportunities, conditions and support to optimise their child’s development and learning in their first year of school. Things to consider may be new sibling arrivals, a change in parenting arrangements, moving towns, or even house. Ready schools: which school should families choose. Does the school of choice foster the kind of relationships with your family that is needed for your individual circumstances? Has the school built connections and partnerships with community groups or have the resources available to facilitate your needs ... things like OOSH programs, inclusion of family cultural awareness and beliefs, or even sporting and academic opportunities that will acknowledge the ways of learning for your child.

Dermal Fillers are used to sculpt and improve the look of your face, and correct the signs of aging. Over time, your face loses volume and structure, and wrinkles become deeper. This is where dermal fillers can help to restore the lost volume, and improve your look by 5 - 7 years. After all, the face is the first thing you notice when you meet someone new, so why not look your best. Dermal fillers come in both permanent and temporary. We do not use permanent dermal fillers. Over time the structure and dynamics of your face change; this may leave permanent results looking unusual. With temporary dermal fillers, your practitioner can sculpt and enhance the look of your face as you change and grow. Anti-Wrinkle injections, or muscle relaxants, are

stereotypically associated with a frozen looking face, which sounds scary, but it’s certainly not the case. The purpose of Anti-Wrinkle injections is to give a natural looking reduction in wrinkles and lines. To show you how it really works, here is some important information. Anti-Wrinkle injections are a natural, purified protein that relaxes wrinkle causing muscles, creating a smooth, rejuvenated and more youthful appearance. One ten minute treatment, with a few tiny injections, relaxes the muscles that cause those lines to form and keeps them relaxed from 2 - 4 months. The results are often quite noticeable and apparent within days, although the full effect is usually seen within 2 weeks. Contact us today for a FREE consultation on (02) 6651 4966.

Ready early childhood services: I’m sure there wouldn’t be an early childhood educator alive who hasn’t been asked a million times, “Do you run a school 'readiness program', “Do you prepare and teach them for school, like 1,2,3s and A,B,Cs.” Today however, it is rather the role of early childhood services to have provided a supportive environment with trained educators, so our children will develop a strong sense of identity, to be connected with and contribute to their world, have a strong sense of wellbeing, are confident and involved learners, and are effective communicators. Only once an environment as mentioned above is created and facilitated will your children be ready and open to learn their 1,2,3s, A,B,Cs and a whole lot more.

coffs coast focus 65

Summer Reading Club

House Check Buying a home will probably be the biggest financial decision you will ever make, so it’s important to make a wise choice. Knowing as much as you can about the condition of the property before you buy will help you avoid problems and extra costs down the track. The best way of doing this is to get a pre-purchase property inspection report – otherwise known as a building inspection. Why do I need one? There are three good reasons why you should get a building inspection report done before you buy a property: So you will know in advance what the problems are so you can use the information to try and negotiate a lower price for the property i.e. you may have to pay to repair some of the problems, so you can get specialist advice about any major problems and how they will affect the property over time. Inspections will give you an outline of the structural integrity of the property and any major or minor defects that may exist. It will also give you an overall view of the condition of the property and any existing or future problems that may need resolving. Ken has over twenty years' experience in the building industry and will give you a complete and thorough report, usually within 24 hours of completing the inspection. We are fully licensed and insured and will ensure your property is inspected within 48 hours of your booking.

66 coffs coast focus.

Children’s Summer Reading Club is on again! This is the tenth year Coffs Harbour City Library have participated. The SRC runs from 7 December to 21 January celebrating with a party. This year’s theme is 'Investigation'; we are encouraging all school aged children to join in the fun. SRC members can participate in online activities at www.summerreadingclub.org.au/ and at a local level. Students can join at Coffs Harbour, Toormina or Woolgoolga Libraries from 7 December onwards. A total of 1,200 members have joined in previous years! We will have an 'Investigation Quiz' to complete, so children can learn more about the library and 'investigate' their local area. The Summer Reading Club encourages reading, learning and investigation; it’s all just for fun. We provide a kit for members to track their progress, and complete fun book activites. Fiona, who has been a member of the SRC throughout primary school, said, “It is a great way to discover new authors and read different books”. This year, we will be holding a 'Create your own Picture Book' workshop at Coffs Harbour Library on January 14, at 10am for only $5. There will be a party at 1pm on Tuesday 21 January 2013, at Cavanbah Hall. Bookings are essential; it will be jam packed with 'Investigation Stations' to satisfy the most curious of readers. See you at the library this summer! Visit the library in person or online at http://libraries.coffsharbour. nsw.gov.au to find out more.

Speedy Lube You and your family’s happiness and safety is our first priority. Your motor vehicle is the second most expensive item you are likely to purchase. It is important to have it serviced and maintained by professional tradesmen. Your safety is paramount when using highly skilled, licenced technicians. With the latest equipment, quality oil and parts, you are assured trouble free motoring. Every service comes with a written report and guarantee. So why use SPEEDY LUBE? We offer a drive through, fixed price, while you wait service with no hidden extra costs, saving you time and money. With every service, you receive 6 months roadside assist absolutely free. At Speedy Lube we have been servicing vehicles just like yours for over 26 years – most makes and models of cars, light trucks, vans, all wheel drive, 4 wheel drive and SUV. All minor services are drive though, fixed price, while you wait. Major log book services may require more parts and work, therefore a bit more time – best to ring and book in for these. Ring or drive in now, and our friendly service advisers can give you a very accurate estimate of cost and time required.

S E N I O R S

Hank Duchateau, hearing loud and clear while in a busy Coffs café, thanks to his new FM system from Australian Hearing.

L I V I N G

THE GIFT OF HEARING Hank Duchateau has discovered a new world of hearing through technology he never knew existed, and he is keen to spread the word.

“M

y hearing is now the best it’s ever been!” says Hank, who has suffered with hearing loss since serving in the Army and relies on a wheelchair for mobility. Hank warns others they are missing out on life if they don’t take advantage of the tools available to make their day-to-day lives easier. “I had to knock down a few obstacles in my life, as a teenager, then in the Army and since I’ve been in a wheelchair. But I refuse to sit at home. “I have a disability and it’s my problem to overcome and adjust to or even solve. The wheelchair, my glasses, hearing aids and this new FM system – they are all aids that help me function.”

Hank was excited to learn from Australian Hearing about the FM listening system to help him hear in noisy social settings and over distance, by cutting out distracting background noise. The wireless FM system picks up sounds through a transmitter microphone, worn or held by the person speaking, or it can be placed in the middle of a group. It then delivers the sounds directly to your ears through your hearing aids or a headset if you don’t wear hearing aids. “If I had known the difference it would make to my life, I would have had it ages ago,” explains Hank. “In the past, without the right hearing aids and FM, I felt totally isolated and frustrated. The people around you just think you’re arrogant or not wanting to be part of the group. But how do you join a conversation if you can’t hear?” The ‘We Care’ conference in Coffs was the first event Hank was able to test out his new FM system. “I placed the transmitter at the lectern initially and then next to the speaker, and could hear clearly. I was over the moon!” says Hank. “Also at lunch recently a band was playing with lots of people around, but I could still hear well. At home watching TV, I can turn the volume down. I don’t have the same problems hearing on the phone, as the FM works with my smartphone. It even works with my

computer and iPad.” “My wife Diane thinks it’s great too, as I can do more now, both at home and when we’re out. I don’t need to ask people to repeat themselves as much. The kids even remark that they find it easier to talk to me, especially with the grandkids.” Hank will have regular speaking engagements over the next 12 months as a Champion in the ‘Living Life My Way’ Program and was recently the guest speaker for Key Employment, sharing his story and ‘can-do’ philosophy with young people. “I talk about my life and share how I have overcome obstacles like my disability. I say to my groups, ‘live a smart life and use the best equipment available to help’. “The FM System is not just for my benefit; it’s also for my wife and family. My hearing loss affects others around me, so if I don’t take advantage of the aids available to me, they also suffer.” Australian Hearing Manager, Karina Morrison, says a lot of people don’t realise that advances in technology mean there are now many devices designed to help with our hearing, not just hearing aids. “It is so rewarding to see what a difference these devices can make to the day to day struggle so many people face with hearing loss. We encourage everyone in the community to find out more about the hearing services and listening devices available to them,” Karina said.

April Phillips April Phillips studied Visual Art in Melbourne when she was 18 to launch her life as an artist. After completing her studies, she became compelled to learn how to make shoes by hand after an old Italian shoe repairer explained in detail how he would replace a sole. Half a decade later, April has embraced all the twists and turns her craft has taken her on.

68 coffs coast

focusinterview.

re you originally from Coffs Coast? The Coffs Coast has been my home for nearly two years now. Before finding myself here, I lived in Melbourne for many years. The Coffs Coast is, in my opinion, the ultimate place to live since we have all the conveniences of a city and all the benefits of a small coastal paradise. How did you first develop an interest in art? I have always had a keen interest in all art forms. It is my belief that all children are intrinsically creative, so I would say rather than developing an interest, somehow I managed to stick with my artistic practice throughout my adult years. Once I have my mind set on a goal, I don’t give up! I think this kind of determination is essential if you want to succeed in a career within the arts. Tell us about your art; what has influenced your training? I began my and a transfer press so that participants can I WO U LD SAY study with sculpture in Melbourne at sew with ease and create their own unique K R O MY W RMIT University. After completing my AT TH prints and collages. There are some great ES AT R D EM O N ST studies in fine art, I was compelled D N A rewards for pledging, including a pair R U LO CO I LOV E to learn how to make shoes by hand G W IT H IN of pre-release shoes lovingly handmade AY PL Y JO EN after a charming Italian shoe repairer by me! Please have a look here for more TO R EA LI SE ES N LI explained in detail how he would OF information: www.pozible.com/makespace M Y OW N ST Y LE replace a sole. I am always looking ” Y. ER IM AG If you are a business or individual willing to for ways to contribute to my personal offer in kind support, drop me a line: hello@ development; I think learning is a lifelong april-phillips.com process. In recent years I have had some great Your footwear is truly magical. Tell us about formal learning experiences. This has included a your collections … Thank you, Melly. I think respectfully short course at the London College Of Fashion, UK; practicing a craft as ancient as shoe making does leave traces of an Internship at Rocketbuster cowboy boots in El Paso, USA; and a magic. I come up with my best ideas while I am in the process of professional mentorship with costume shoe maker Jodie Morrison making shoes, and this brings a lot of excitement and unexpected (Steppin' out) in Sydney. outcomes to my work. Although footwear is a part of the fashion Describe your artistic style? I would say my work demonstrates world – I see what I do to be separate to the industry in general. I that I love colour and enjoy playing with lines to realise my own don't adhere to trend forecasts, make a collection for each season, style of imagery. I try to let my instincts guide the way, so that rules or take part in disposable fads. Instead, my personal interests, and preconceived outcomes don’t stifle me. philosophies and perspectives guide my practice. What current projects are you working on? How did you What was your purpose when in the UK recently? I travelled come to collaborate with Youth Directions? MAKE SPACE is the to the UK to attend the installation and private view of the Royal next project set to launch in early 2014. I recently had a 'calling' Overseas League Annual Scholars exhibition. I made a series of to give back to my local community. I realised that the best way five boots which reference a carriage boot worn by women while to make a difference was to incorporate my skills and knowledge riding in a horse led carriage during the late 1800s. These boots somehow. I contacted local organisation Youth Directions earlier were made as an outcome of an artist residency I took part in at this year because of their expertise and interest in facilitating local Hospitalfield House, in Arbroath, Scotland. I am proud to announce projects that make a difference to people’s lives. MAKE SPACE will the Northampton Museum and Gallery UK has acquired this series take place at the North Coast TAFE and run for nine weeks. I will train humanitarian refugees how to work with leather, make unique for their permanent collection. What's on the agenda for 2014? First off will be the launch bags, and create items for sale. The outcome of MAKE SPACE will be an exhibition in Coffs Harbour of MAKE SPACE workshop – I can’t wait to get to know my new students and share the outcomes with you all! in mid 2014 (location to be advised) where the bags will be on

“

display and up for sale. The best way to follow the day to day successes and progress of MAKE SPACE is either via our blog: www. makespaceworkshop.wordpress.com (you can enter your email via the 'follow' button to subscribe) or 'like' us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/makespaceworkshop You mentioned you are reaching out to the Coffs Coast Community to help MAKE SPACE get off the ground. Can you elaborate? Yes, we have launched a crowd funding campaign on pozible.com so that we can purchase two machines to ensure the success of MAKE SPACE. We need to buy a leather sewing machine

“

ALTHOUGH FOOTWEAR IS A PART OF THE FASHION WORLD - I SEE WHAT I DO TO BE SEPARATE TO THE INDUSTRY IN GENERAL. I DON'T ADHERE TO TREND FORECASTS, MAKE A COLLECTION FOR EACH SEASON, OR TAKE PART IN DISPOSABLE FADS.”

Phillips

I will also be releasing a made to order range of women’s shoes in 2014 which are set to go on tour in various retail spaces and galleries around Australia and then overseas. There will be 30 shoes in total, each with a single hand illustrated, carved and painted object. Every object featured on a shoe pertains to the human being: exploring some of our desires, habits, superstitions, inventiveness and absolute absurdities. To follow my projects and view more of my works: Blog: www.aprilphillipsfootwear.com Website: www.april-phillips.com coffs coast focus 69

DECEMBER 2013

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AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

To achieve that feeling of having everything that you could possibly wish for, tune into your personal strength. You have such talent with perfectionism, so enjoy manifesting every bit of reward you deserve. Just know that there is no challenge too big for you to easily conquer; all you need to do is make the commitment, then begin planning and preparing. Perhaps even try giving yourself permission to succeed. Enjoy the beautiful calm later on in the month. Smokey Quartz dispels negativity and is very grounding for your energy.

LIBRA. September 24 - October 23

You have lost touch with your positive attitude regarding abundance. Set your sight on what you want, plan it out and begin seeking it towards mid-month. Your practical way of thinking will be your strength all month, but don’t compromise any new standard recently set. Distract yourself in a project, allowing your creative, artistic talent to flow and this is when you’ll sparkle, with that Gemini passion for living. New friend/friends and social outings can be expected as your tastes begin to change. Try wearing some topaz for wellbeing and prosperity.

Relationships are going to continue being a challenge for you unless you begin to honour your needs. You prioritise everyone’s needs above your own, and then wonder why you are so frequently taken advantage of. Begin today to love yourself as much as you care for others, and enjoy the difference your reality brings. You are being given another opportunity to re-educate those connected to you. All you have to do is what you want to do, without feeling guilty. Turquoise is powerful self-love crystal. Carry it for a few weeks.

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PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

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February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

October 24 - November 22

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Some fresh goal setting is urgently required to still the frustration of not knowing what is coming. You can feel change coming into the picture, you can even sense its outcome, and this is feeding the feeling of waiting for something big. The trouble is, it still isn’t happening. New goal setting will start the ball rolling. You will be divinely guided towards the right opportunity and the appropriate contacts will enter the picture to validate perfect timing. Ruby shatters negativity and aligns us with our destiny or life’s purpose.

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70 coffs coast focus.

Adventure is on the horizon. Pay attention to all detail while you journey, as there will be many successful opportunities waiting. The only vulnerability comes back to your sense of self-worth. Consideration needs to be given to an unfinished project or task from the past. This completion represents endings of old hurts, discovering undigested emotions, letting go of the same old hurtful nagging feeling so that you can reconnect with your magnificence and like you. Celebrate the ‘new you’ with some friends. Turquoise is great for personal power, amplifying it.

Your very clever mind and wisdom are likely to be drawn on by those around you, this month. You have an innate talent with problem solving, and these next few weeks will prove to you how clever and important in the bigger scheme of things you actually are. This will benefit your self-esteem. A new intellectual pursuit could prove to be quite successful as an additive to your income. Avoid turning down any social engagements this month, as a special friend is likely to enter your reality. Azurite is a powerful crystal for insight.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

November 23 - December 21

Change is being called for. A new way of looking at things will happen as your attitudes begin to alter. Then you may anticipate a new set of social influences, through a group or class you may attend. You might even experience ‘itchy feet’ for a while, until change in your environment takes place. A holiday may be the answer for the restlessness; however, try to capitalise on its energy to make the most of it. Become aware of your fears and then try laughing at them. Citrine balances energy.

A wonderful feeling of accomplishment will be a strong influence early in the month, followed by a sense of adventure and travel opportunities. Quite a busy social calendar can be anticipated, with some unexpected visitors and catching up with old friends. Enjoy your creative flair at work and keep above daily stress by looking at the bigger picture. Your sensitivity is being amplified at present, so keep busy to avoid being pulled into everyone else’s problems. New goal setting will benefit you too. Carrying moonstone helps cycles end and new ones begin.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

You may be tempted to run away from a situation; this is only because you’re feeling powerless. Work on yourself and rebuild your personal strength, so you won’t be manipulated. This will bring back the honour and respect you are craving. Instead of tingling from head to foot with gratitude for the blessings surrounding you, you are focused on what you feel is missing. This is bringing forth a negative thought pattern, which could lead to depression if not changed. Rose Quartz initiates a vibration of happiness and gratitude.

You are about to tumble into an experience that you are completely unaware of. There is nothing to fear, as you are being divinely guided. You will be pursuing life with a sense of romance and will enjoy discovering a new talent. Your confidence will surge, and you can expect to feel great about yourself. New work opportunities are coming forth and are likely to be a big distraction later in the month; however, you will need to tie up some loose ends first. Calcite assists us with spontenaity.

Justice is being served at present. Your reality is likely to change soon, with a balancing of outstanding debts, both physical and etheric. Look at your last cycle constructively not critically, if you want clarity. There will be remnants of other people’s input you may need to tidy up, but don’t lose heart, as this is also drawing in good karma. Don’t walk away from your challenge taking no responsibility, as this ultimately was your creation. Just look for its hidden blessings with gratitude. Rose Quartz initiates unconditional love.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Laughter is your perfect motto for this month, as your vulnerability has been that lately you have taken life far too seriously. This leaves you feeling trapped by your circumstance, rather than in charge of it and has led to possible depressing emotions. It is your life and it isn’t a rehearsal, so get on with it and use that wicked sense of humour and start living with a purpose. Perhaps some fresh goal setting will help you break the habit of lower expectations. Carnelian is a very powerful motivator.

For that Special Christmas Gift If you are searching for a special gift this Christmas, why not come visit the Jeffrey Baker Art Gallery, situated in the heart of Coffs Harbour at 72 Moonee Street ... We have expanded our range of artworks available through the gallery, which now includes a wonderful display of originals, quality archival canvas prints, limited edition prints and framed prints under glass. Small gift art works are also available, as well as cards and personalised gift vouchers for that person who wants something special. Jeffrey Bakerâ€™s modern Australian style is characterised by his imaginative interpretation of land and sea scapes, using unusual techniques such as layering and intricate detailing to produce works of unparalleled beauty. Jeffrey works from his studio, which is adjacent to the gallery, so visitors often have the chance to meet with him and find out first-hand the inspiration behind his imaginative and colourful paintings. Where else can you meet the artist responsible for the beautiful images you see hanging in a gallery! You also can arrange an appointment

with Jeffrey to discuss a special customdesigned original art work or a custom-sized canvas print of your choice to suit your surroundings, personality and decor. The gallery will be closed from 27 December in preparation for our annual January exhibition, Coastal Colours 2014, which will be held at Opal Cove Resort from Saturday 4 January 2014. For more information about Jeffreyâ€™s art, call us on (02) 6652 8099, visit us online at Jeffreybakerart.com.au or email info@ jeffreybakerart.com.au

Coffs Harbour Store 153 Orlando Street p: (02) 6652 1111

Find us NOW on facebook Vast Interior Coffs Harbour

Hours Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm Sat: 9am - 4pm Sun: 10am - 2pm

www.vastinterior.com.au

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focusinterview.

A young Coffs Harbour woman took first place in the International Makeup Artist Trade Show in Sydney. At the mere age of 26, already Lilah Deguitre has had some very exciting events occur in her career as a professional makeup artist. With the world at her feet, now Sydney based Lilah is honoured by the support the Coffs Coast showed her when she was up and coming â€Ś

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focusinterview.

ow old are you? I am 26 years old and was born in Coffs Harbour in 1987. What did you love about growing up on the Coffs Coast, and where are you based these days? I loved how supportive the people on the Coffs Coast were when I really needed them back in 2004. My family, friends and dancing family are my rocks. Currently based in Sydney with my wonderful fiancé, Stephen, and puppy, Lilly. And you fundraised to pay for your dancing tuition after being accepted into Performing Arts School in Sydney. Tell us about that … were you overwhelmed by the support of your home town? In 2004 I was accepted into a Performing Arts School in Sydney, Australia (Brent Street). I had been a dancer from the age of four, and at that time I was dancing and training at Julie Ross Dance Studio and Groovelock with Trav Ross in Coffs Harbour. When I found out I had been accepted into Brent Street (which I was not expecting at all) I realised I really wanted to go but being only 17 and my family not in a position to pay for me to do a $10,000 course, I could see my dream of being a dancer slip through my fingers. I decided at that moment I didn’t want to give up on my dream, so I went out on to the streets of Coffs Harbour to busk, sell raffle tickets and try to raise some money to maybe try and pay the first term of bills for the school and then try and work to make the rest. This is when I saw what an amazing town Coffs Harbour really is. The generosity and support that the local people showed me was truly out of this world. They helped me raise enough money to go and make my dreams come true. I went on to graduate and gain a Cert. IV in Performing Arts and continue to teach and perform as an artist for six years. When did you first become involved in makeup? Tell us about your mum's influence ... I have always

had makeup in my life. Being in the performing arts, I would find myself doing lots of different makeup for performances. I loved it. My mum also did makeup; I would watch her when I was younger and try to copy. At 23 I was working with a dance group and as usual before the show I was helping my friends with their stage makeup. I remember thinking, "This is so fun, I just want to do this". I found more and more I wanted to do makeup for people and see what I could create and felt the need to pursue this as a career. What makeup qualifications do you have? I studied at ACMUSE (Australian College Of Makeup And Special Effects) for two years. First year was a Cert. IV in Makeup. Second year was a Diploma in Makeup and Special Effects.

The generosity and support that showed the local people of this t me was truly ou ed me lp he world. They ey to on m gh raise enou eams dr y m e ak m go and come true.”

“

What is the International Makeup Artist Trade Show, and is there a competition attached to it? The International Makeup Artist Trade Show is a two day makeup event that happens in six different cities around the world every year, including Sydney. Makeup artists and makeup enthusiasts go to this event to see guest speakers, see what's new on the market, buy products and be inspired by demonstrations and competitions. One of the events they hold is a competition called battle of the brushes, which is open to any student or graduate who completed their course within the last 12 months.

There are two different sections to this competition, a beauty/fantasy section and a prosthetic/special effects section. In both of these sections the group of eight finalists are given a theme to work with, and on the day have a certain time limit to create their work (2 hours for the beauty, 3 hours for the special effects). How many times have you entered this competi-

tion, and how have you placed? I was lucky enough to have been selected to be one of the eight artists chosen to compete in the beauty/fantasy section two years running. The first year I entered (2012) I was fortunate enough to place 3rd with my red back spider queen; also being the only Australian to place was a huge achievement for me. This year (2013) I came out with first place with my rainforest queen; it was the most ecstatic feeling to have my work recognised like this. Working so hard on this particular piece, I hand made the entire hair piece, a 5-6 foot set of dreadlocks, a hand woven head piece that lit up and working closely with my mother, as she helped design and made the entire costume. The world really is your oyster. What's next on your 'things to do list?' I’m currently working on my 'Delilah Productions' business and building my portfolio of work, so I can freelance full-time! www.Delilahproductionsmakeup.com coffs coast focus 73

s o c i a l s c e n e with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs Left. Rose Atkins, Kay Ryan and Leisa Browne Below. Tania Beckett and Richard Carden

Below. Mickeela Tonycliffe and James Simmons

Below. Andrew and Kerrie Fraser

Above Jacquelene Fox, Michelle Hamze and Jodie Kennedy.

Above Holiday Coast Boot Scooters

Social/scene.

Plenty of festive cheer in thee air on our fabulous Coffs Co ast! We can practically hear the bells of S anta’s sleigh on o its merry way. S o many celebrations; it’s definitely the season to be jolly and socialise ...

have to admit I love everything about Christmas, and we always go for the whole cook and eat ‘til you drop over the festive period. But every couple of years I make a huge statement about how we should just ‘run away’ for the holidays and not go to the trouble with the whole rigmarole! I actually thought I was going to stick to it this time ... even The Cat looked worried – no prawns for Christmas lunch? A combined Christmas party with the 2013 Novaskill Awards night was held at the Park Beach Surf Club just recently. The event was especially for the clients, suppliers and of course, the trainees. The theme for the evening was ‘Celebrating Success in the Community’, which gave special attention to people who have overcome adversity to achieve exceptional results both professionally and personally. Inspirational speaker, Mr Michael Crossland, was the MC for the evening and guests got to enjoy musical entertainment from the super talented local singer and guitarist Nathan Hardy. The night included prize giveaways from local business sponsors such as Dolphin Marine Magic, In Touch Boutique and La Fleur D’Alyse, to name but a few. Of course, there was scrumptious cocktail food provided by the Park Beach Surf Club Restaurant along with celebratory drinks to follow. What a great way to celebrate the trainees’ efforts in achieving their goals. Don’t forget to gather up your family and friends and rock up to the Coffs Harbour Showground on Saturday 23 November. Newcastle Permanent’s ‘Cinema under the Stars’ will be staging a massive movie night for one and all! You pay nothing for a whole bunch of fun. We really do have it all on the Coffs Coast; pack a picnic and a rug and watch the sunset while you relax and 74 coffs coast focus.

enjoy a movie on the big screen. Gates open at 5.30pm and the movie starts at 7.30pm, depending where the sun sets. There will be entertainment before the movie, which is the fabulous Wreck it Ralph (sounds like ‘The Cat’ with our lounge suite!) We attended an absolutely beautiful event just recently. It was staged at our sensational North Coast Botanic Gardens in conjunction with The Rotary Club of Coffs Harbour Daybreak. It was Coffs Harbour’s first Lantern Festival, reminiscent of Japan’s ‘Toro Nagashi’ Festival. This spectacular event was set in the Japanese Waterside Pavilion. Guests were welcomed with a glass of Sake on arrival. Woo-hoo! Bit of a kick start with one of those. Festival lanterns were then provided to each guest to float on the lake, which enclosed your own special wish (hope Santa was in on this one!) The evening proceeded with kimono adorned Mamagoto serving up a delicious degustation style Japanese banquet, while guests relaxed and enjoyed the visually delightful lantern festival. Proceeds from the evening are going towards the construction of The Contemplation Pavilion at the North Coast Botanic Garden. Ann Gee from G2 Architects was the function organiser for the Coffs Harbour Daybreak Rotary and also the designer of the amazing Pavilion. Definitely hope this is an annual event! Coffs Harbour Racing Club certainly attracted a large crowd to enjoy the fun and excitement of their local Melbourne Cup Race Day. It was certainly a biggie for Gai Waterhouse, when she won her very first Melbourne Cup! Positioned at a delightful table by the window, we sat and enjoyed a delicious lunch while selecting a few winners for the day. Talking of winner for the day, The Park Beach Fashions on the Field held their usual contests. A bevy of well dressed

ladies posed for the judges and after a tricky time of decision making, Michelle Hamze and Jodie Kennedy were the runners up, with Miss Jacquelene Fox chosen as the ‘Best Dressed Lady’. All the girls were dressed locally, with the winner, Jacquelene, styled by Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell. Miss Fox mentioned she was wearing a beautiful dress from ‘In Touch Boutique’, whose clothes are now available at House of Le Dãin in Sawtell. The millinery and jewels were provided by Le Dãin. The next race day to look forward to is Men of League Race Day, which is a great opportunity to attend for a Christmas party shindig. The Coffs C.ex was the venue for the Annual Sunny’s Awards Night and as usual, was a packed house. So many winners on the night! But here are just a few ... the award for Excellence in Small Business was presented to Chris and Kerry Hines from UNREAL Estate. Tabatinga Family Fun Centre was inducted in the Sunny’s Hall of Fame and won the Hospitality Leisure and Entertainment award, while Chris and Michelle Worboys from Key Employment took out the Community Services Award. The Business of the Year award went to Infracraft Detailed Joinery, who actually took out four awards in total this year! That’s definitely something to celebrate about! Still with the Sunny’s Awards, one of the winners on the night was Leadership Management Australia, who was presented with the Professional Services award. Marilyn Brien, who accepted the award, also recently celebrated their 2013 success with a complimentary event at the beautiful Regional Art Gallery. This night was to acknowledge their success for 2013. Guests enjoyed bubbles and canapés while listening to a short talk from Dr Leigh Summers from the Gallery about the artwork currently displayed on site.

The second and ‘bigger and better than ever’ Sawtell Summer Sessions was held just recently. Bearing in mind the weather has been extremely erratic lately, we were lucky! Mother Nature granted us a fine balmy evening for the crowd to wander down and enjoy First Avenue’s fine eateries and stores. Whether it was family, friends or visitors to the area, everyone had a wonderful time. The girls from The Holiday Coast Boot Scooters kicked up their heels and set the street abuzzing with their lively performance. Some of the entertainment was provided by Magic Jake, Motor Cycles to check over for the guys (and girls) provided by North Coast V Twins, and everyone had to have a picture taken with the fabulous ‘Smurfette’ provided by Coffs Coast Health Club. This is really starting to be the place to be on the second Thursday of each month, with the next Summer Session being on 12 December! This is the Christmas event, so don’t miss out; see you there! Going back to running away to a resort for Christmas was obviously not taken seriously at all by the Beros Family. They absolutely knew how to change my mind! It’s as easy as pie ... or at least, plum pudding! They packed me off on a Christmas shopping spree with my great friend Leonie who works me up into gigantic ‘Christmas frenzy’. The idea of rejecting Christmas was literally thrown out of the window, and I will be spotted on Christmas Day in a reindeer apron cooking up a massive turkey, roast beef, plum pudding, a dangerous English trifle – all in 40 degree heat, and loving every minute of it. Wooo yeah, bring it on! Here is to wishing you a very merry Christmas from the Beros and FOCUS families. Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.

competition.

A MEET AND GREET WITH THE AMITY AFFLICTION

VANS VANS

WARPED TOUR 2013 COMPETITION

ith the mercury rising, the line up for ‘The Best Day Ever’ continues to sizzle. VANS WARPED TOUR 2013 is psyched to announce some of the world’s very best skateboarders and BMX Riders will be bringing the thrills and spills to the Vans Warped Tour 2013! 2 lucky punters win a chance to meet and greet with The Amity Affliction! Just tell us in 25 words or less which member of The Amity Affliction you’d like to skate with and why. Please send answers to comps@vanswarpedtouraustralia.com with the subject line: Coffs Focus Mag meet and greet competition. Note: Winners must have a valid ticket to the Coffs Harbour festival.

the plug! Tickets on sale: Via Oztix Saturday, 30 November - Coffs Harbour, Showground www.oztix.com.au

coffs coast focus 75

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

A cultural safari to Vietnam.

K Kerry M Moss

Quadrant takes you to Vietnam If you’ve ever wondered how professional photographers capture such fabulous photos in far-flung places, why not consider travelling on a small group tour to Vietnam with awardwinning photo-journalist Tim Barnsley to see how it’s done? Tim lives in Armidale now, but back in 2008 he had the good fortune to spend two years in Vietnam with his young family whilst his wife was teaching at an international school. During his time in Thao Dien, a district of Ho Chi Minh City on the Saigon River, Tim says he fell hopelessly in love with the Vietnamese people and spent his days documenting their daily life with his camera. The sights, sounds and smells of the country totally captivated him and so he needed no urging when the opportunity came up to lead a small group tour to Vietnam for local company Quadrant Australia. Quadrant Australia’s Cultural Safari to Vietnam is perfect for travellers who wish to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture and learn

about the country’s history, cuisine and its people. Commencing in the north in Hanoi, the tour travels to the spectacular mountain area of Sapa near the Chinese border and continues on to the ancient Imperial city of Hue, as well as World Heritage listed Hoi An and beautiful Dalat. You then travel on to Vung Tau on the coast and finish up in the fascinating city of HCMC, or old Saigon, where the remnants of French colonial architecture are found on every corner. The tour is suited to all types of travellers who enjoy the chance to get off the beaten tourist path and meet the locals. It offers a unique opportunity to wander through bustling markets, see colourful hill tribes and visit ancient temples with Tim on hand to help you document your travels and experiences through the camera lens, all with an eye to recording everlasting photographic memories. For more information, contact the team at Quadrant in Vernon St Coffs Harbour or www. quadrantaustralia.com

Pas

Every little girl has tottered around in her mother’s high heels imagining herself ‘lunching under the Eiffel Tower in Paris’. Often when you live out your childhood fantasies you can be disappointed; you imagine it to be something it’s not.

n a recent trip to Paris, I set out to live the childhood fantasy. Would it live up to the legend? After a brief few hours on the Eurostar Train from London, I arrived into Paris. The city buzzed with the vibrancy that I’d expected, and the streets were alive with entertainment. Despite my late arrival, Paris showed no sign of slowing down. I was relieved to see my driver waiting patiently for me outside the station. He was typically French; he was suave and good looking and didn’t speak a word of English. He obviously recognised me though and before long, my French adventure had begun. We ducked in and out of small streets lined with cafés and people. The traffic, although heavy, seemed to move harmoniously amongst the icons of the Paris skyline. I tried to talk, so did he, but I think his questions were answered when I let out a squeal as the lights of the Eiffel Tower lit up my view. I was here to find out whether Paris really was the city we’d all dreamt of as little girls. The next week rushed by in a blur. Each morning, I woke with a fresh enthusiasm for the day ahead. I rose early and always walked the streets. I walked, I walked, and I walked some more. I immersed myself in the street entertainment, where 10 piece brass bands performed in the street alongside opera singers and mime artists. I sat on the River Seine watching the beautiful people go about their lives. And I mustered my last bit of energy

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to climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower to see for myself the view that I had imagined a thousand times. My diet consisted of the most spectacular croissants, if I was eating before noon and wonderfully decadent French cheeses if I was eating after noon. And when an American tourist came up to me and asked in his loud, brash English voice for directions to the Arc De Triomphe, I must confess I pretended not to speak his language. Those readers who have followed my travel tales will know that my expectations are high and my travel list lengthy. The days skipped by with great food and wonderful experiences. It would be difficult to explain back home how giddy I had become in such a short time. I had fallen in love with a city that I had been sharing a long distance love affair with for many years. My feelings were captured on my last night in this vibrant city when I wandered upon a concert held within the walls of the NotreDame de Paris (the world famous Notre-Dame Catholic Cathedral). I was in a foreign city sitting amongst hundreds of people listening to the angelic sounds of the National French Choir. Not a soul around me shared my language, and yet we shared a common bond; we were all breathless for a city that stole our hearts. And for that brief moment in time, it was easy to imagine being that little girl again.

Two

Summers l a t e r

with Karen Goodwin from Jetty Boating …

Here we go ... our second summer at Jetty Boating, and so much has happened over the past 12 months. The popularity of the Yamaha F70s and F115s has seen the workshop doing fit up after fit up, seeing the big switch across to the 4 stroke motors.

he popularity of the Yamaha F70s and F115s has seen the workshop doing fit up after fit up, and I am sure the boys can almost do it with their eyes closed (not that they would, of course). In November, Jetty Boating took on the TABS brand of boats; to test the waters with the plate boat market in Coffs Harbour ‘Tough Aussie Boats’ and the 5600 Ocean Series is in stock. Naturally, Quintrex remains our number one seller and with the popularity of the Quintrex models, they will always remain our number one boat brand here at Jetty Boating. Speaking of number one brands, here is some exciting news for Yamaha ... Stunning Double Whammy for Yammie! Australia’s most trusted outboard brand, Yamaha outboards, scored a stunning double: winning major American marine industry customer satisfaction and innovation awards on virtually the same day. In mid September, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) announced that they had, for the 12th

conse ecutive year, awarded Yamaha the consecutive outbo oard engine category’s Customer outboard Service Index Award for excellence in customer satisfaction. The following day, the NMMA then teamed up with Boating Writers International (BWI) at annual International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition and Conference, to honour Yamaha with a prestigious Innovation Award for the company’s popular 200 hp fourcylinder, four stroke F200 In Line Four. Yamaha Motor Australia’s National Sales Manager, Iain MacLeod, says the two awards are an incredible “double” and recognise the importance that Yamaha places on both ongoing innovation and continuing customer satisfaction. “One of the reasons Yamaha outboards are so popular, both here and around the world, is that our designers and engineers are always looking for ways to make better, more powerful and more environmentallyfriendly engines,” he says. “For example, in just the last few years, Yamaha has released the world’s first V8 350 hp 5.3 litre four stroke outboard and pioneered the world’s

first plasma a-fused cylinders in a m plasma-fused marine application n in the 4.2 litre V6 ran range. We’ve introduced new innovations such as Yamaha’s unique Shift Dampening System and, of course, the incredible F200, the world’s lightest 200 hp 4 stroke outboard.” “Delivering unique product advantages and maintaining the most innovative and up to date product range on the market has allowed us to strengthen our position as Australia’s leading outboard brand.” The NMMA’s Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards are the most prestigious customer satisfaction awards in the marine world. They were launched in 2001 to provide US boat and engine manufacturers with an independently measured, costeffective way of improving customer satisfaction. Yamaha is the only outboard manufacturer to have won the NMMA’s CSI award every year since its inception! Yamaha outboards are available through Jetty Boating Coffs Harbour. Call Karen and the team on 6651 4002. coffs coast focus 77

focus on legal.

F I S H B U R N WAT S O N O' B R I E N

North Coast V-Twins is a family owned and operated, award winning local business that has been serving the motorcycle community of the Coffs Coast & beyond since 1989.

Selling your house

Compliance matters The last thing you want when selling a property is to have the deal fall over because there's a problem with Council approvals. After all the hard work that you and your agent have put into getting your property ready for sale, you don't want to leave anything to chance.

ne of the most basic and often overlooked issues when selling a property is ensuring that all the improvements (including sheds, gazebos and pools) have been appropriately approved and inspected. While it’s often attractive to carry out some DIY works on your property, it’s important to make sure that appropriate paperwork is filed with the Council and appropriate approvals are obtained. If you don’t, you run the risk that you’ll face trouble when it comes time to sell. Fortunately the Council process to recognise these works is not difficult and, assuming the work is to the requisite standard, relatively inexpensive. Those with pools are also now under new obligations due to a number of recent key changes to the law. With at least six toddlers drowning in swimming pools every summer, let alone the hundreds who require assistance from having fallen in, these tough new laws were introduced in New South Wales to save lives and to bring our requirements in line with other states. Swimming pool owners will be required to self-assess and state that to the best of their knowledge their swimming pool complies with the law. The changes require every home owner to register their swimming pool. All pools must be registered by 19 November 2013, and pool owners can register online at www.

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swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au. Failure to register a pool carries fines of up to $220, which will no doubt seriously impact the amount that Santa carries at Christmas. Once a pool is registered, Council will then run safety inspections every two years to ensure that the pool complies with legal requirements. The main consideration will obviously be on ensuring that the fences meet safety requirements. At present, it is planned that Coffs Harbour Council will charge an inspection fee of $150. If the pool does not pass the first inspection, a further fee of $100 applies to the next inspection. Swimming pool owners will be required to produce a valid swimming pool certificate before being able to either sell or lease a property. If the swimming pool is subject to an occupation certificate, it is exempt from an inspection for three years from the date of that certificate. If you have improvements (including a pool) on your property and you’re not 100% sure that appropriate approvals and inspections have been obtained, we recommend that you seek legal advice before selling your property. Fishburn Watson O’Brien has been providing conveyancing services for almost 30 years, and we’d love to guide you through the sale process. If you have a property you’re selling, or just need advice on property matters, please give us a call on 6650 7000 or visit us online at www.fwolaw.com

NORTH COAST est 1989 part from our local customers, local HOG (Harley Owners Group) that saw avid many are from afar, travelling long enthusiasts travel from all states of Australia, distances from all over Australia Asia and North America to attend the event to experience the famous ‘V-Twin supported by sponsoring dealer North Coast Grin’. Whether travelling through on an V-Twins. extended journey or just to take advantage of The event was extremely successful, with praise our highly qualified technicians with national coming from Harley-Davidson Australia, the industry reputations for excellence, they come vendors, local tourism operators and business to simply receive one of the largest and of course, the thousand plus ranges of new and used prestige attendees who explored the motorcycle, parts, accessories region for weeks prior and and merchandise, in-store post. Clients at our GDT Seccombe ke ta y nl ai cert We invite all curious, r Close location. advantage of ou well versed and ss North Coast V-Twins swift stock acce experienced and the journey any are the sole franchise motorcyclists to call into m home along the on the Mid North Coast our store or visit the d famous ro ads an g of New South Wales for in nd online shop (www.vou rr su es rout Harley-Davidson, Ducati, twins.com.au) where the Coffs Co ast.” and Hyosung Motorcycles. you can get a taste for our The vast range of spare passion; you’re sure to find parts, accessories, apparel and that perfect something to spoil merchandise available at North Coast yourself, find a great gift idea for a V-Twins is unequalled in the range of friend or your motorcycle. genuine and aftermarket items. North Coast V-Twins stock a huge range of Clients certainly take advantage of our swift genuine spare parts, accessories and tyres for stock access and the journey home along the most makes and models of our V-Twin range. many famous roads and routes surrounding the And if that’s not enough, next door is Coffs Coffs Coast. KTM, our affiliate store which caters for all your They journey from all over the country, only to off-road needs. ride their new treasure or toy home the long Make North Coast V-Twins your destination. way round. When you’re a motorcyclist, you You’re one stop shop for everything on two look for the excuse to take the scenic or twisty wheels. route, and we can offer that. Keep up with all the latest news on our Just take for instance the recent 2013 NSW Facebook page www.facebook.com/ STATE HOG RALLY, which was facilitated by our NorthCoastVTwins

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focustourism.

Coffs Coast Family Law – with Charmaine ne Tanner

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

FAMILY LAW

AT THE COURT

charmaine tanner

efore entering into the court process it is expected that some amount of negotiation has already taken place. In property matters, this generally means at least working towards getting a list of agreed assets and liabilities and their values and each party putting forward a proposal for what they want. In children’s matters, it is necessary to have already completed a mediation or conference (except if urgency exists or it is not appropriate, because of an AVO or a history of violence or abuse). A certificate stating that a conference has been attempted is a requirement before a children’s matter is started in the court.

looks at the matter purely from the point

People are understandably nervous about jumping into the court process, even when negotiations have failed, but sometimes it is necessary. There can be several court events before a matter reaches the stage of a final hearing. There can be months between each court event, and a final hearing may not happen for 12 months or more. At each court event the judge will check the progress of a matter and may make orders to help it progress.

recommendations, such as further courses

Very early on in property matters, usually at the first court event, the court will order the parties to attend a mediation or conference. This can be a privately paid mediation, or a conference run by a court Registrar, where solicitors and parties discuss each party’s position and try to reach a mutually acceptable settlement. Each can run for many hours, and mostly these result in a final agreement, so no further court events are required.

each court event. This makes sure they are

In children’s matters the court may order, or the parties can agree, to go to another conference, to attend parenting or anger management courses, or orders might be made for one or more parties to attend sessions with, or get a report from a psychologist or psychiatrist. The court can also order that an Independent Children’s Lawyer be appointed. This lawyer

of view of the ‘best interests of the child’, as sometimes parties embroiled in a dispute lose their ability to focus on the children. The parties may be ordered to attend interviews with a court appointed Family Report writer. This is a person employed by the court to talk to, and observe the parties, with or without the children. Depending on the situation and the age and maturity of the children, the children may be interviewed without the parties. A report is prepared, sometimes quite lengthy, which can identify or clarify issues. The report is confidential and can make for the parties to attend, or whether a more specific report is needed by a psychologist or psychiatrist. They are only recommendations. It is surprising to most people that when they get to the court there may be twenty or more other matters listed with the court at exactly the same time. Waiting for your matter to be called into the court is normal. The court

UPDATE

usually requires people to be at the court at available to negotiate. Always check with

Our vision is to position the Coffs Coast as a premier tourist destination.

your lawyer before the date of court. In some circumstances a court event can be conducted by telephone, but consent has to be sought well before the court date. Apart from a final hearing where questions can be asked of parties in the witness box, parties are not usually required to say a lot, or anything, during a court event, unless they don’t have a lawyer. There are times, however, when a Judge will ask a direct question to a party. Once a matter is in the court system, the parties can agree to final orders at any time, and the court involvement finishes and in fact, most matters settle well before a final hearing is conducted.

ell, with a superb subtropical climate, perfect Pacific beaches and glorious rainforests, the Coffs Coast is one of Australia’s most unforgettable holiday destinations … and thanks to these amazing natural assets, it’s not a surprise that tourism is the #1 economic driver in our region.

Tourism Coffs Coast (TCC) is a non-profit association with a membership drawn from individuals, companies and organisations that have an interest in the promotion and development of tourism in our region. We are committed to developing a vibrant and thriving tourism industry within the Coffs Coast region to maximise the economic and social benefits for our members and the community. Most importantly, our overarching vision is to position the Coffs Coast as a premier tourist destination. To help achieve this vision, TCC produces the Coffs Coast Explorer, an annual visitor guide designed to attract tourists to our region and promote the myriad of fantastic local businesses that call the Coffs Coast home. The 80,000 copies are distributed to Visitor

Information Centres across Australia, showcased at travel shows and found in visitor stands right across the coast including Park Beach Plaza (just outside Big W), The Big Banana and Coffs airport. It is also a fantastic resource for family and friends. Why not send out copies in advance of a wedding or family event? For businesses, The Explorer is a great prospectus for conferences. The visitor guide is free and designed to promote our region, so feel free to pick up copies from the Bellingen or Coffs Harbour Visitor Information Centres. You can also view the Coffs Coast Explorer digitally from www.coffscoast.com.au About us: Tourism Coffs Coast is a not for profit organisation that is committed to developing a vibrant and thriving tourism industry within the Coffs Coast to maximize the social and economic benefits for our community. If you’d like to join Tourism Coffs Coast please contact us via: info@ tourismcoffscoast.com.au or visit the website www.tourismcoffscoast.com.au And remember, tourism is everybody’s business! coffs coast focus 79

Thinking of a new website How does your website look on a mobile device? Recent statistics already show on average 20% to 35% of visitors to your site are on a mobile or tablet device.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year We would like to wish all of our clients, family and friends a happy and safe Christmas and New Year. The festive season is traditionally a time to spend with family and loved ones. It is also a time to reflect on the year that has gone and focus on your plans for the New Year. I find that many people think about their financial situation over the holiday period and how they can do things differently or improve their situation in the year ahead. Whether you are employed or self employed, there is always room for improvement, and even small changes can lead to bigger and better outcomes. You need to ‘plant that seed’ if you want to grow. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business. Please note that our office will be closing at lunch time on Friday 20 December and reopening Monday 6 January 2014. Have a happy and safe holiday season from all of us at Barry Hockey Accountants.

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Klaustel Phones & Data

We offer business telephone systems with no interest payment plans.

As mobile browsing becomes increasingly popular, there is a need to have websites that adapt to the device that your client is browsing on so that they get the same user experience on any device, be it a Full HD monitor, iPhone, Android phone or any of the tablets available on the market – each with different screen resolutions.

We offer business landline, internet and NBN, with the flexibility to style a plan to suit your business and offer great savings with VoIP telephone services.

Giant Media is now using Responsive Grid Technology, which allows your website content and layout to adjust to fit any device browser perfectly.

We are a truly local family owned and operated business.

Clients get the exact same content and functionality on their mobile or tablet as on their home computer.

Klaustel Phones and Data has been servicing the Coffs Coast and surrounding areas for over 15 years.

We offer wireless headsets and long range cordless phones. We are Krone certified data cabling installers, offering a 15 year warranty on Krone. So if you are starting out, relocating, expanding or simply upgrading, we can look after all your telecommunication needs just by calling our local number: (02) 6651 5288. And remember, always get a second opinion before signing any contracts. Check out our website: www.klaustel.com.au

This is achieved through clever use of proportion-based CSS grid systems and flexible content. Instead of paying for an uninformative, stripped down mobile website which can be frustrating for users and cause unnecessary redirecting away from your full website content, get one website that works and looks great on every device. To see an example of a Responsive Grid Website, just visit www.giantmedia.com.au on any of your devices!

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Marketing

ANGUS

SMYTH MBT LAWYERS

elcome Angus. Tell us a little bit about your background and why you chose the Coffs Coast to call home? I had the great fortune to grow up in a family of publicans, so I lived, ate and did my homework in my family’s pubs in Sydney and Tamworth. I worked my way through uni in Armidale as a duty manager at a local hotel. The owner I worked for purchased the Hoey Moey in 1994 and as he knew my wife, Rachael, was a Coffs Harbour girl, he offered me the opportunity to become the Licensee. I spent two great years in that role, before career opportunities took us to Central Western NSW. We moved back to Coffs in 2004, so that each of our six children could have the benefit of growing up in and around the ocean. You have had quite a diverse career to date; what were the highlights? When I reflect on it, my highlights include being granted a hotelier's licence at the age of 21, launching AUSTAR into regional Australia (and having a TV in my office) and working with the NSW Government to deliver information technology into rural and remote communities. I felt that work made a tangible difference and had long lasting effect on the lives of the people in those towns and villages. Above all else, I have enjoyed the challenge of managing people and performance in complex and fast paced business environments. As a lawyer, it’s satisfying to be able to utilise my diverse experience outside of the law to assist my clients in a commercial and practical way. You recently joined the team at Mbt Lawyers. Tell us a little bit about why you made this move? I was attracted to the firm's long history on the Coffs Coast and its deep connection with and service to the local community. I've long

admired Mbt’s integrity and enviable reputation for achieving results for its clients. I felt strongly about wanting to be a part of that culture. I’ve played a lot of team sport throughout my life, so I really enjoy the strong team culture at the firm. Professionally, it's rewarding to be able to draw on the strengths of different team members to provide the best possible legal services to our clients.

Most of us now have some form of digital presence, but not many of us have considered what happens to our digital assets when we die. The online intellectual property of a business can have significant value: who owns it and whether it needs to be included in a person's will can be crucial to protecting that value.

Additionally, the protection of a brand’s (business) reputation is becoming an increasingly Mbt Lawyers is one of the important aspect of most renowned law There has been managing social firms on the Coffs ise quite a bit of no media presence for Coast, having been the fact recently about a business, both ed ne established in 1951. rs ne that business ow e use externally and What sets it apart th to consider how rvices internally, through se e from its competitors? of cloud storag de si its marketing in ia ed Our firm has a team m and social k or strategy and w of e id of highly respected ts and ou acy, iv pr engagement with on ct pa lawyers, including im can ns and tio la re customers and ee oy pl those recognised by the em also monitoring of brand image. ” Law Society as specialists individual employees’ in their chosen field. Mbt social media interactions to provides capital city expertise, ensure reputation is managed without the need to travel to the well. city. It's a large full service law firm, but it doesn't treat its clients like a number. The Quite often there are defining team at Mbt recognise that individual clients moments in an individual’s career journey. require legal solutions tailored to their personal What have been some of the milestones of circumstances. yours to date? I think making the decision to start a law degree There are some interesting trends of at 32 years of age was a defining moment for late emerging in the legal landscape, in me, both professionally and personally. With the particular within the online space. Can you support of my family, I was able to fulfil a long share these with us? term goal of being admitted as a lawyer. Technology impacts every corner of our life,

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and its intersection with law and business is no different. There has been quite a bit of noise recently about the fact that business owners need to consider how the use of cloud storage services and social media inside and outside of work can impact on privacy, employee relations and brand image.

Tell us a little about your mentor/s and how they have inspired you? From a business perspective, I have been heavily influenced by both my parents and my in-laws. They have proven that a focus on your staff, your customers and supporting your local community with your time, money and expertise can deliver a successful business.

There are a number of big name success stories I draw inspiration from, but I also admire the entrepreneurial spirit in many small business owners. As for personal mentors, I look to a high school English teacher who encouraged me to choose to study law and former Wallaby captain John Eales for his calm and measured leadership. Angus, you play quite an active role in the community. What does this entail, and why is it important to you? I am currently President of the Coffs Harbour Junior Rugby Union and work with a dedicated bunch of parents to develop future Wallabies. Our whole family are also members of the Coffs Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club, an organisation which is particularly important to us. Rach and I lost our youngest son, Hugo, at the age of 20 months to a drowning accident at home. That's why we focus our energy on promoting water safety and learning life skills such as CPR. Beside that, being part of the surf club is also good fun and quality family time. I think it’s incredibly important to play an active role in the community, as a professional, resident or as a business; it fosters a shared connection and pride for our local community and often from a business’ financial support, underpins the ongoing viability of such activities. What is your favourite joke? I’ve heard all the lawyer jokes, and only three of them are true! I always get a laugh out of the annual Stella awards given out for stupidity in the US legal system. Last year's third place winner, Carl Truman, 19, of Los Angeles, California won $74,000 plus medical expenses, when his neighbour ran over his hand with a Honda Accord. Truman apparently didn't notice there was someone at the wheel of the car when he was trying to steal his neighbour's hubcaps! coffs coast focus 81

GEO L I N K For over 20 years, GeoLINK’s experts have created quality solutions and a sustainable living environment. Find out more about us and see if we can help you. Planning – contact Simon Waterworth We use a modern approach and sustainable planning principles to develop solutions improving the use and management of land resources and are well versed in legislation at local, state and federal levels. Environmental Compliance and Auditing – contact Simon Williams Our expert auditors can sort your environmental liabilities and regulatory requirements and conduct audits to ensure you are operating consistent with your legal responsibilities. Environmental Engineering – contact Tim Ruge Our engineers focus on the use and management of resources surrounding us. Services offered include water resource management, erosion and sediment and contamination.

Emerald Beach Plumbing

Reg Latter Electrical

Christmas has snuck up upon us so quickly this year. Emerald Beach Plumbing has experienced a super busy year, and it has been very rewarding in so many ways. We are always meeting fantastic new clients and enjoying our existing clients as well.

The team at Reg Latter Electrical wishes a merry Christmas and happy New Year to all our valued customers and suppliers!

We have added Alicia to the team just recently to help manage our office. In such a short period of time she has embraced our team, clients and customers and has brought many new ideas and innovations to our team. We love her friendly and fun nature, which just adds to the amazing team of people we have here at Emerald Beach Plumbing.

Ecology/ Environmental Science – contacts David Andrighetto and Peter Thrift Whether it is fauna or flora, bushfire or acid sulfate soils, our team are experts in surveying, monitoring and reviewing environmental factors and impacts.

We have had lots of positive feedback during the year, and we would like to thank all our customers and clients for their support. We nurture a positive and caring environment within our team, and it shows in our customer service. Our clients are always happy with our service, and our team are always ready with a smile and a helping hand.

Landscape Architecture and Design – contact Richard Elliott Urban, cultural, heritage or commercial, we offer a tailored landscape architecture service. GeoLINK wishes everyone a safe and festive Christmas and a happy New Year.

A big thank you to everyone who has supported us during the year, including all our suppliers and contractors, and we wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a safe New Year.

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The office at Reg Latter Electrical will be closed from Tuesday 24 December and will re-open on Monday 6 January 2014. The office phone will not be staffed, so please do not leave a message unless you would like to be contacted when we re-open. During the holiday period we are still committed to delivering the best service to our customers by ensuring highly trained and qualified staff are on-call 24/7, for your domestic, commercial or industrial property. As such, during the Christmas/New Year period we will still maintain an emergency service for any URGENT repairs or breakdowns - PLEASE CALL - 0417 236 604 to be diverted to the electrician on call; standard overtime rates will apply to call outs during the public holidays and weekends. The management at Reg Latter Electrical thank our wonderful team of staff for their dedication and effort servicing our customers during the past year, and thank you for your business and support over the past 12 months; it is appreciated.

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Le Dãin Designs has been established for five years. The name Le Dãin (pronounced le da) is the owner’s family name which is Jersey-French. There are stockists situated locally, in Sydney and just recently overseas. They have just launched their first Flagship store on picturesque First Avenue. The store is situated amongst the fine eateries and boutique style shops under the glorious Fig Trees on the main street of Sawtell. Local owners Carole and Ivan Beros have designed a boutique which is both opulent but welcoming. It has the charm of an old fashioned store with the modern pizzaz of today. There is an emphasis on personalised service with experienced stylists available at all times. Appointments can be made outside of hours to suit our busy lifestyles. They pride themselves in dressing ladies of

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any ages, of all dress sizes for any occasion. Whether it is for a day at the races, mother of the bride, evening wear, cocktail attire or simply dressing for work. They are proud to announce that they have introduced the fabulous fashions from ‘In Touch Boutique’ which is situated at Nambucca into The House of Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell. We needed beautiful clothing to complete the look, so it seemed fitting to join forces. Le Dãin has just dressed our local Coffs Harbour Melbourne Cup Race Day ‘Best Dressed

Lady’ for the Fashions on the Field winner, Miss Jacquelene Fox. She donned an exquisite dress from In Touch and Millinery and Jewells from Le Dãin Designs. There is a wide variety of Millinery in store at all times. Australian Milliners such as Neil Grigg, Cynthia JonesBryson and Merideth McMaster send special designer headpieces direct to the store. Apart from everyday clothes and jewellery there is the designer jewells from Le Dãin. They consist of Freshwater Pearls, Austrian Crystal, Semi Precious stones and vintage

treasures. Original Pieces can be designed and created for that special gift. Carole mentioned “we suit all budgets, there is clothing Millinery and jewells ranging from under twenty dollars up to “spoil yourself ”! Gift vouchers are available at all times and would make a great Christmas present. The store is involved with Sawtell’s Summer Sessions; which are held on the second Thursday of each month. Bubbles and canapes are served in store and customers get spoilt! You can indulge and have a free make up trial from Bianca from La Fleur D’Alyse for that special occasion whilst browsing and enjoying the ambience of the boutique. Le Dãin Designs wants you to leave the store having enjoyed the whole personalised shopping experience.

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PACK AND

SEND Pack & Send Are you sending Christmas presents overseas this year? At Pack & Send we would like tell you about our Christmas Global Mail promotion. This Christmas season we have negotiated fantastic international rates with our global mail provider on packages up to 5 kilos to destinations like New Zealand, North America, South Africa, Asia and the UK, with rates from $30 for a 3 kilo package to New Zealand and $60 for a 3 kilo package to places like Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Malaysia. These special rates are great value for sending gifts this festive season. With Christmas just around the corner, this is a great time to get your gifts ready, beat the line ups and save money. This promotion is running until December 20 and is based on packages up to 5 kilos in weight to most overseas destinations (conditions apply). If you are wondering how much your package is to send, we are able to provide a on the spot quote. We’re looking forward to making your Christmas shipping easy and invite you to call us on 6651 3027 or visit us at our new location at 243 Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour.

The Pack & Send team are made up of a group of people who have come to the Coffs Coast from all corners of the world. These young business owners have a genuine community spirit and ‘a no limits attitude’!

ho are the brains behind the Coffs Coast Pack & Send team? Our customer service team consists of my business partner, Grant Birdie, and me. Our wives, Kimberley and Ngaire, also work behind the scenes keeping quality control in order. Where are you all originally from? How and where did you all meet? Ngaire and I grew up together in a small town in Saskatchewan, Canada. Kimberley and I met in 1999 in the ski town of Lake Louise, Canada, which is where she first met Ngaire, who came to visit. In 2000 Kimberley invited me to come check out her home town of Coffs Harbour; we married in 2004 and have lived here on and off for the last 13 years. Ngaire came out to Australia a few years later to visit us again and met Grant while living on the Gold Coast, and we have all continued to be great friends ever since. You have been back in Coffs for over a year now, but I hear you were living back in Canada for almost five years. Tell us what you were up to there? Kimberley and I moved back to Canada to go into partnership with my brother in a hotel with a pub and liquor store. We loved being closer to my family and loved reaping the benefits of living in the Northern Hemisphere. We enjoyed some great Canadian skiing in winter and fantastic salmon fishing in summer on Vancouver Island. We always travelled lots and took advantage of being that bit closer to Europe, UK, Mexico, Jamaica, America etc. We had a great time running the pub

and one thing was for sure, we always had the best Australia Day parties and we were even able to get a few Aussie artists to play at the pub, with the biggest artist being Aussie Hip Hop group Bliss n Eso. It was a great experience and set us up for our next venture here in Coffs with Pack & Send. You have three children. How do you manage running such a successful business and juggling three young children under seven years of age? Kimberley is an amazing mother and the most supportive wife; without her, I wouldn’t be able to do it. We also have a great network of family and friends who are always willing to lend a helping hand, which we truly appreciate. It makes running a business worth it and a little easier. Grant, you and Ngaire have recently just moved to the Coffs Coast. How are you enjoying it? And what are your backgrounds? We absolutely love the variety of beaches and the chilled vibe that Coffs produces and are also extremely enjoying the excitement of co-owning a business here in town. We have juggled our careers in the past years (with myself being a Business Development Manager for Carlton United Breweries and Ngaire an ESL teacher) with living, working and travelling overseas. Thirty-three countries visited and nine lived in, with many more to come in the future! Tell us about Pack & Send. What services do you offer? Pack & Send originally started in Sydney over 20 years ago and now has over 100 franchises in Australia, with more than a dozen in both New Zealand and the UK. Simply put: we

send anything, anywhere! Our services range from domestic, international, sea freight, air freight and packaging material. We can organise the freight for any eBay, Gumtree or online purchase. We send commercial products, gifts and personal effects overseas. We also have a wide range of business clients who enjoy our great service and ability to overcome sometimes complex logistic problems they might have. Where is your new location? What brought on the move? Our new location is 234 Pacific Highway, across the street from the Clog Barn. The move was brought on by the growth in the freight industry and when this location came up, it was perfect, because it was a prime location with great exposure; it has a large car-park located at the side of the property, and we now have a proper retail area to display our boxes and packaging supplies, which our last location lacked. What goals have you set for the business in 2014? We have just returned from our annual conference and are extremely excited about 2014, as Pack & Send will be rolling out some pretty innovative changes to our website. At Pack & Send Coffs Harbour we are looking at building the business while servicing all our existing clients and look forward to meeting new ones. In the Pack & Send community we strive for a ‘no limits attitude’ and will always try and find the best solution to any logistical problem put in front of us. PACK & SEND Coffs Harbour 234 Pacific Hwy, COFFS HARBOUR, NSW 2450 Tel: (02) 6651 3027. coffs coast focus 85

focusabode.

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Niche Design and Build are a Harbour based building and Coffs H design company specialising in designing custom homes that design consider the clientâ€™s individual consid needs, as well as taking into needs consideration the environmental consid aspects of the land they are going aspec build on. Local duo Nathan and to bui Shelley are excited to be launching Shelle new display home. their n

here are you both originally from? When and why did you move to Coffs Coast? Nathan and I were both born and bred on the Northern Beaches of Coffs and although we have both travelled and worked interstate, we have always considered Coffs to be home. The decision to base our family and business here was an easy decision. Nathan has had a very long career in construction. What experiences has he had

in that time? Nathan has had a wide range of experiences throughout his 15 year career in construction. Upon leaving school, he went straight into an apprenticeship and became a fully qualified carpenter. Since then, he has worked at length in residential builds, as well as custom fit-outs. Nathan has also worked extensively in commercial and civil works projects, fulfilling a range of duties from a leading hand position on multimillion dollar civil constructions to foreman on city high rise buildings.

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What aspects of Nathan's lengthy experience has he married into the business? Having such a broad spectrum of experiences has definitely strengthened Nathan as a builder. In an industry like building, nothing is more valuable than hands on experience – the variety of projects that he has worked on has given him a very large skill set. This includes having an extensive knowledge of the processes involved in all the different trades utilised in construction. This knowledge puts Nathan in a privileged position to be able to manage any project smoothly and efficiently. Nathan feels passionate about passing these skills on to the next generation and keeping the construction industry

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strong by proudly supporting the apprenticeships program. Whitcon Constructions has been established for quite a few years. Why did you decide to change the name? As Whitcon Constructions grew, so did Nathan’s ambition and vision for the business. In conjunction with my skills as a designer, we have developed a clear vision for where we want to position ourselves in the market. We now offer more services than we did when we first started, and the name change came about to reflect this. The new name ‘Niche Design and Build’ has been up and running for the past year, but we are officially launching it now to coincide with the opening of our new display home.

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We started our plans with our dream home in mind, and it just made sense to use it as a showpiece so the public can come and see what we can do.”

How was Niche Designs born? What is the story behind Niche Designs? Traditionally, homes were brick, timber or cladding, but these days people are becoming more creative and employing a combination of these traditional materials, which makes for more interesting designs and an ever growing number of new ideas. A very important rule to remember in construction though is ‘form follows function’. By combining knowledge of architecture, construction and visual design, it is possible to choose materials and designs that look great but still serve the function they are designed for. Nathan and I recognise the importance of this need, particularly in reference to the need for more sustainable homes, and Niche Design and Build was born out of this idea. We deliver this marriage of expertise second to none. And you’re launching with a display home, tell us about that ... Yes, we are very excited to be launching our new display home. This project has been very important to us. Emerald Beach has always been an area that we dreamed we’d eventually live in, so when blocks became available in the

development at the end of Bluff Road, we were very excited. We found one in an exceptional position, within walking distance to the beach and with a reserve across the road. This was an opportunity we couldn’t resist. We started our plans with our dream home in mind, and it just made sense to use it as a showpiece so the public can come and see what we can do. This home has been very carefully thought out, with every material being carefully chosen for its environmentally sustainable qualities or its ability to bring something unique and special to the design. We have placed a lot of emphasis on how to maximise the natural heating and cooling aspects of the block and have created a home that is comfortable all year round and is an absolute pleasure to live in. We have also put a lot of focus on expressing our individuality – by carefully sourcing unique products locally and abroad, the home proudly showcases the work of many local and international tradespeople and suppliers.

Proud suppliers of Niche Design & Build

Cetnaj Coffs Harbour 151 Orlando St Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Ph: (02) 6652 7400

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You have mentioned that you have been sourcing materials abroad as well as locally. Tell us about that … Nathan and I both share a passion for incorporating natural elements into our designs, as well as using unique materials. In order to give our display home the edge, we did a lot of hunting around. This involved sourcing products locally and abroad. We were fortunate to be able to locate a lot of materials locally, including beautiful timbers from Coffs Harbour Hardwoods and our exquisite bathroom tiles from Color Tile. Our feature wallpaper ceiling and the beautiful sheer linen fabrics used for our

curtains were sourced from Natural Habitat, and the outstanding honed block work was another product sourced locally at Austral Masonry. Special thanks must also go to Designer Living Kitchens, who did a remarkable job collaborating with us to create a unique, standout kitchen. It is also worth mentioning the incredible support we have had from other local businesses, including Blue Scope Steel, HQ Concrete, Hi Tech Frames and Trusses, SGA Architectural Window Solutions, Bryker Hire, Coffs Scaffolding, C & M Garage Doors, Morrison’s Betta Electrical, Cetnaj and Adventure Coast Building Supplies.

coffsharbourstone®

quality craftsmanship in Marble and Granite

Office: 4/40 High Tech Drive TOORMINA NSW 2452 OFFICE HOURS: Mon - Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm Phone: (02) 6658 5600 Fax: (02) 66585 606 Mobile: 0419 224 225 Email: coffshbrstone@hotmail.com

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Nathan and I both share a passion for incorporating natural elements into our designs as well as sourcing unique materials. In order to give our display home the edge we did a lot of hunting around.â€?

We really wanted to incorporate some beautiful stonework into the building and in order to make these products affordable to our future clients, we decided to look abroad. Indonesia has a strong mining industry and access to a large range of beautiful stone. Through sourcing these materials, we have built business relationships with suppliers in Indonesia and can now offer our clients

the opportunity to select these materials for their homes as well. A sneak peek of the gems we managed to find include the spectacular Sukabumi stone pool tiles, our stacker stone on the exterior of the building, as well as the lava stone pavers and the feature piece in the kitchen â€“ an onyx up-stand.

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How do you compare yourself to other builders? We are passionate about designing custom homes that consider the client’s individual needs, as well as taking into consideration the environmental aspects of the land they are going to build on. Designing homes which maximise the innate heating and cooling aspects of the block not only makes financial sense, but attention to these details also means that the end product is going to be a home that is comfortable all year round and is practical to live in. Attention to our

clients’ individual needs also means we create a place you can call home and be yourself in. What is the process when a person walks through the front door? We love what we do, and this is definitely reflected in the process we go through with our clients. The initial stages are more or less building a relationship and discovering what the client needs and what they visualise for their new home or renovation. Sometimes it’s our job to help clients clarify these ideas. From there, we will come back to

Your Local Concrete Masonry Block, Retaining Wall and Paver Supplier

Phone. 02 6690 6200 or visit 27 Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour

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you with concept drawings, and together we will fine tune these drawings until your new home design is realised. It is important to make the process as easy and as enjoyable as possible. We provide a very supportive process, with professionals and consultants available to guide clients through every step and every decision. Niche Design & Build stay with you until we hand over the keys to your new home. Do you supply home plans, or can a person bring their own plans to you? We are very flexible. We are more than happy to work with your plans, or to work with you on new plans.

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We love what we do, and this is definitely reflected in the process we go through with our clients.â€?

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People are becoming more and more energy conscious; do you encourage clients to make energy saving features? Absolutely! Being energy conscious is not just important for minimising your carbon footprint, and your bills, but also for your own comfort and lifestyle. This is the main reason we believe you

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canâ€™t choose your plans directly from a book; they must be customised to suit the location, your lifestyle, your family needs and of course, the individual aspect of the block you plan to build on. These planning stages are the most important, and spending a little more time at this point will always be a valuable investment.

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Where is your brand new display home? How is this display home different to the many others? We are very proud to say that our new display home is unique. We have endeavoured to step outside the box and create a home that inspires people to express their individuality. We are really looking forward

to introducing ourselves and showing people through as they discover new products, bold ideas, and how comfortable we have made this amazing space. We believe our home is memorable and that people will leave feeling excited about planning their new homes, renovations or even to just go home and start

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The official opening will be for the tradesmen and suppliers who were involved in the project, so they can all see the final product, do some networking and hopefully grow their business profile as well. ”

re-decorating. The official opening will be for the tradesmen and suppliers who were involved in the project, so they can all see the final product, do some networking and hopefully grow their business profile as well. The display home will then be open to the public from 2 December until 21 December, Monday to Saturday, between 10am and 2pm. We will reopen after the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Times will be advertised on our website in January www.nichedesignandbuild.com.au – the display home address is 98 Bluff Road, Emerald Beach. We look forward to meeting you all and showing you our beautiful home.

DISPLAY HOME ADDRESS: 98 Bluff Rd, Emerald Beach. Mobile. 0439 022 427 Phone. 6656 4763

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focusrealestate.

with Chris Hines from Unrealestate

real Two important topics to consider with licensed Real Estate, Stock and Station Agent and Auctioneer Chris Hines, Unrealestate.

chris hines. CARRYING ADEQUATE INSURANCE? Like most Australians, my family and I have looked on in disbelief and been saddened by the latest devastation unfolding on our television screens in the Philippines, as well as the hail and storm damage suffered on the Coffs Coast. I am not an insurance broker, nor do I claim to be; however, with the present disasters testing our nation, it’s probably time to call your insurance agent or broker for a chat. Insurance companies agree that the most common reason for home owners being caught short when disaster strikes is not that they have no insurance at all, but that what they have is inadequate. Under insurance is an insidious thing, once people take out home and contents insurance, they tend to think they’re covered. They file their policy away and don’t look at it from one year to the next. It’s a bit like thinking you’re healthy and not bothering to have regular medical check ups. Contents insurance particularly should be updated once a year, especially if the home owner has made significant purchases. This way if you fall victim to fire, theft, storm or other disasters, you won’t find that you’ve just spent thousands on a new lounge suite or the latest in computer technology, only to realise that your contents cover hasn’t kept pace with your rate of acquisition. You can choose from indemnity type insurance or new for old, but the latter offers greater benefits. You pay more for new for old but instead of getting the cash value of the insured items less depreciation, you end up getting what it would actually cost to re-stock your cupboards, re-furnish your rooms and so on with brand new items. Insurance companies are 96 coffs coast focus.

able to value every household item usually get cold feet before the contract from the contents of your pantry to is exchanged regardless. It’s a negative your little girl’s Barbie doll collection. result for all parties concerned. The Building insurance also offers a choice agent would have done better to of indemnity or new for old. Once acknowledge that the purchaser didn’t again, the preference is for the latter, yet have enough market knowledge to because the insurance company will be sure of their decision. not only replace your home, but also What many purchasers need is more cover the cost of demolishing any information. Agents who record remains, rubbish removal and so on. purchaser details can provide service With indemnity insurance if your home to both vendors and purchasers alike. burns to the ground, the company From the vendor’s point of view, it is replaces your home less depreciation important that agents follow up after only. Obviously, the older your inspections when purchasers decor, the more you stand have had time to to gain from paying the make comparisons. higher premium and Vendors can use having the new this feedback What many for old option. It to make is purchasers need s pays to do your nt informed ge A n. io at more inform homework; r se decisions ha rc pu rd who reco rvice compare se e id ov about the pr n ca details the benefits and s or nd ve validity of th bo to e.” and costs of marketing purchasers alik several insurance strategies, companies before pricing and committing to any presentation. particular company or The main advantage policy. But one statistic that to purchasers is that they are nearly all insurance companies agree on retained on file so that they can be is that fifty percent of home owners are amongst the first to be contacted when under insured. new properties come on the market. WHY DO REAL ESTATE AGENTS After all, many sought after properties ALWAYS WANT MY DETAILS? are sold before the ad has a chance to Prospective purchasers sometimes say hit the press. they feel their privacy is being invaded Letting agents keep in touch is also an when agents ask for their name and easy way of staying up to date with telephone number. They are concerned what is selling for what price. If you that the agent will ring and pressure know an agent has a local reputation them to buy a house they don’t want. for professionalism and results, you can There are agents who operate in this only gain by leaving your details – and way. But the more professional agents you can always refuse if you know that have up to date training and marketing an agent has a reputation for being strategies, and they don’t rely on pushy. You can always ask them to take outmoded foot-in-the-door techniques. your details off their mailing and calling Purchasers who buy under pressure lists.

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TOSCA N HOM E S

Leaders in the industry, Toscan Homes prides itself on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Entering into its 30th year, the team at Toscan Homes is focused on offering its customers the latest in concepts, innovations and contemporary designs. ulti HIA (Housing Industry of Australia) award winning Toscan Homes is one of Coffs Harbour’s most reputable and successful builders; they proudly build every one of their homes to a high standard of excellence.

What is the history behind Toscan Homes? Toscan Homes is a family company started by Grazz Toscan back in 1991 and is now owned and operated by Todd Mackay and Rob McClennon for the past four years. Toscan Homes has six highly qualified staff members and proudly uses over 200 suppliers and subcontractors from the local area, all of whom are locals. “We have always been strong believers in using local trades and suppliers as much as we can, as we consider this to be important in the continual growth and development of the building industry on the Mid North Coast,” says Todd Mackay. What is the process from the moment you walk in the front door? Right from the start, when you come into our office looking to build a new home, renovate an existing home, or if you have another project in mind, we are happy to cater to your dreams and wishes. We start by getting ideas down on paper as a

of sub-contractors, “We believe owning a Toscan design brief. A site visit of your land to survey the Home is an investment in your financial and personal block’s contours and other aspects; or, on the other wellbeing; it is an opportunity to create a special hand, if you don’t have a block of land in place where you feel safe, secure and mind, we will be happy to help you self-expressed,” says owner Rob look for one. Then it’s on to McClennon. preparing a working drawing with either our draftsman es When you build with Toscan Toscan Hom or your own designer/ ly gh Homes, you enter a relationship has six hi rs be em architect. Each one of m f that starts with your first qualified staf es over our houses is individually planning ideas and develops and proudly us d designed, taking into through the building process 200 suppliers an from the account the best aspect and beyond. We include subcontractors hom w Coffs area, all of of the site, the budget and personal assistance with a .” are locals the customer’s individual selection of features and colour schemes, to ensure your home is lifestyle needs, and we work as individual as you are. through this with you to create the home of your dreams. We Tell us about your most recent pride ourselves in offering you open, award? We have recently won the HIA honest communication throughout the Northern NSW Custom Built Home $200K building process and are happy to answer any $400K category and following in Grazz Toscan questions that may arise. footsteps, have consistently been finalists or winners

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Apart from being multi-award winning, what are you most proud of? Our pride is in construction methods and build quality; it’s shown when the name Toscan Homes is mentioned in the re-sale. This is due to our solid reputation for attention to detail, consultation and our great team

in the HIA awards each year since owning Toscan Homes. Toscan Homes 13/9 Gdt Seccombe Close, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450. 6652 2444. coffs coast focus 97

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Mbt Lawyers

trevor g r a h a m G.J. Gardner Homes N E W H O M E S A L E S C O N S U L T A N T

Trevor Graham has been involved in the Coffs Harbour our property market for overr 20 years, giving him a deep p insight into the region and its people. He has now taken this his experience in the local market ket into his role as New Homes Sales Consultant with G.J. Gardner er Homes Coffs Coast.

y number one priority is to give customers what they want. Many building companies have a ‘what you see is what you can have’ position. At G.J. Gardner we prioritise the home owner and their needs – this is your home, so it has to be right”. Trevor emphasises that quotes will be completed quickly and homes will be built on time and on budget. With so many issues to consider when building, it is important to focus on the most important priorities first. Based on his decades-long experience in the property market, Trevor is clear what these are: • Building and construction quality. “Make sure you choose a builder/ home company who is prepared to go that little bit further to make sure you are happy and that the quality of their work is first class.” • Price. “Have a budget and try to stick to it. If you go over it, make sure this extra cost will give you lifestyle benefits and add value to your home.” • Location. “How does your block lie and how will your new home be situated on it? If you live in a beautiful place like the Coffs Coast, it is best to design your home to take advantage of the sunshine and cool breezes.” But let’s begin at the beginning: you are a new home buyer – where do you start? Trevor outlines the key steps: “Firstly, we find 98 coffs coast focus.

out if they have a block of land and if they do we inspect the site, noting all relevant details. Based on their budget and specific needs, we can then recommend a variety of plans which will work for their site.” G.J. Gardner works hard to eliminate the multiple steps of looking for land, then shopping for a home design which suits that block by offering a great choice of house and land packages. Once you have chosen a home design, the fine tuning starts, adding all the touches which make it uniquely your own. Internal fixtures and fittings, such as tiles, carpets, and kitchens are ordered and constant interaction between G.J. Gardner Homes and the home buyer means that you’ll know exactly where your house is up to. Trevor reassures: “The client knows exactly what is going on every step along the way.” He believes that it is vital to work with a locally operated business, because you can walk into that company and speak directly to the person responsible for building your home. “You are not dealing with a company which might have its office here, but is run by remote control from somewhere else. We have chosen to live here and work here, so the Coffs Coast is not just your home; it’s ours too.” Come and meet the team at the showroom: 3 Green Bluff Road, North Sapphire NSW 2450. (02) 6653 6335.

Need to update your Will? Change in your circumstances? Have you planned your estate to look after your loved ones?

Whether you lead a simple existence or whether

Here at Mbt Lawyers we love to boast about our very own in-house guru, Geoff Smede. A partner since 1983 and very experienced lawyer (emphasis on a long 35 year term), Geoff leads our succession planning and deceased estates team with invaluable team member Del Raets, Lawyer. This formidable team dedicates its efforts to ensure your affairs are tailored to look after you during your lifetime and thereafter. How many non-clairvoyants can boast that?!

structures involved in the DNA of your life, we

Plenty of us are guilty of putting off updating our Will or getting our Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardianship prepared or amended to cover us in our current circumstances. Geoff can often be found saying there are no 2 estates alike and that is the policy we adopt when we consider each client's individual circumstances, stage in life and objectives. We like to be thorough so be prepared for some serious questioning!

there are companies, trusts, partnerships, superannuation funds or any other funky can provide the guidance, know-how and legal expertise to ensure your affairs are 'in sync'. Geoff and Del have significant experience in not only catering for the eventualities of life but for those times when loved ones have been lost and their affairs need to be put in order. We understand how trying these times are and we put our best work in to ensure minimal fuss and highest efficiency. If you are the executor or administrator of the estate of a loved one, we can provide you with the right guidance, information and support in administering the estate, obtaining Probate or Letters of Administration. Call Del at Mbt Lawyers on 02 6648 7616 or email her at draets@mbtlawyers.com.au to make an appointment with Geoff and Del today. You're in expert hands.

coffs coast focus 99

Coffs Coast Focus i39

Published on Nov 25, 2013

Issue 39 of the Coffs Coast Focus

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