Coffs Coast Focus i44

Feature Story Jane Wilson

COFFS COAST

May 2014// issue 44

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NEW ARRIVALS

Domnica Shirt Dress $189 Lorelle Heels $149.95

NOW OPEN COFFS CENTRAL Phyllis & Mimosa for fashion, shoes and accessories.

Coffs Central Shopping Centre, Harbour Drive coffs@mimosa.com.au | 02 6651 5979 | www.phyllisandmimosa.com | facebook.com/phyllisandmimosa

editor's note.

focus C O F F S C OA S T

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Melly Dee.

editor.

from the

Welcome to the May issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

nicole@focusmag.com.au

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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 2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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ife’s become a little bit social media insane. Social media is terrific for connecting with loved ones (for free) anywhere in the world. News in real time etc. #WeAreObsessedWithSocialMedia. But the flip side brings to our attention the very serious issue of cyber bullying, and the demographic that cyber bullying hits hardest is teenage girls. This month I interviewed the gorgeous Katie Pitsis, Free Spirit Girl founder – a brilliant business that supports teen girls in letting go of fears and limitations. Katie empowers girls to gain confidence and encourages us all to have a zero tolerance policy on all forms of bullying. Hear, hear, I say!

Someone recently said to me that they love FOCUS because it’s full of individuals

in the community who make them feel like they live amongst great people ... giving them that warm and fuzzy feeling and a sense of pride that interesting, fun people have chosen the same part of the world to pull up stumps. This month is no different! Have you met Tim Dodds in Bellingen? He is a barber and teaches us that his trade is the third oldest trade in the world, and he reminds gents that going to the barber certainly makes you more ‘manlier’ ... that’s hot.

Chisel Fitz: what a legend this bloke is!

I love his value system. Married since the ‘60s, fit and healthy in his latter years – owns a Harley. I’m sold.

ON THE COVER Yes, I admit it. I watch those cheesy shows that most people (including my

fiancé) cannot stand. Australia’s Got Talent, The Biggest Loser – shows that make your brain stronger… err, not.

So, I was beyond excited that I got to interview Australia’s Got Talent semi finalists, The Nelson Twins. These guys are stand up comedians from out west, and they are coming to town for Camp Quality’s Comics on the Run. Turn to their interview; they are hilarious.

ED’S PIC This month’s photo was taken by Leah Moore on the beach at Aanuka. Her images capture the real beauty in life.

Check out her website: www.leahmoore. com.au.

FINAL SAY “Yoga is almost like music in a way; there’s no end to it.” – Sting.

Melly Dee – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Twitter: @le_mellydee

coffs coast focus 5

focusinterview.

jane wilson Jane Wilson studied art in Sydney and as a young artist, her earlier career was teaching. With a stroke of fate she found herself working as a graphic designer, constantly evolving her craft in the beautiful Whitsundays. In 2005 Jane relocated to Coffs Harbour, and on any given day you can find her painting in her studio at Sapphire Beach.

here are you and your studio based?

I live towards the end of Gaudrons Road, Sapphire Beach.

My studio is built-in under the verandah of our north-facing house, so I'm very fortunate to have good light all day and all through the year. It's a lovely studio that urges me to work as soon as I enter. I'm quite messy, so it’s great to have a dedicated space where I don't have to pack everything up every day.

How did you first develop an interest in art?

Like many artists, its difficult to remember a time when I wasn't drawing. My mother was very talented and creative, as was her mother, so I guess it’s an inherited trait. I suppose having a parent with the same interest also is an encouragement from the start.

Describe your artistic style …

An artistic style is an evolving thing. You study numerous art books, go to workshops and generally learn something new, work with other artists and become inspired, or you can happen upon lucky accidents in your own work. All of these things have contributed and are contributing to my work. On another level, I suppose my style could be described as painterly and naturalistic.

What do you paint?

While I can paint most subjects, my preference is and always has been with figurative subjects. I love to capture the fleeting look of a person, either facially or through gesture. I guess it's expressed in that commonly used term 'the human condition', 6 coffs coast focus.

which to me refers to different approach to the relationship of painting. This could is th I really enjoyed people with their be seen for some w work and thre inner self, of people years as a flatter, y. el et pl m myself into it co with each other, and more illustrative and ht ug ta ss Being in busine d an f between people and linear style, which I el ys m t ou me a lot ab icl ith their environment liked, but which has w ng ki or about w ... a fascinating and gradually evolved. f.” af st d an ents endless subject.

It really wasn't until What professional I moved to Coffs training/instruction Harbour in late 2005 that have you had in art, and I began to paint full-time. how has this helped you Since then I work most days grow as an artist? and, as with any work, the more you After school I did a Diploma of Art put into it the more confident you become.

Education, which qualified me as a secondary What has inspired you to be creative over school Art/English teacher in NSW. I taught the years? for several years, then went to part-time in an Good and bad experiences, friends and attempt to keep painting. For me, it was fairly relatives, conversations and observations have unsatisfying on both counts. all been inspirations for my work.

Then, after a couple of years, in what What medium do you use to create with almost seemed an act of fate, I was in the most often and why?

Whitsundays in North Queensland designing I try to attend life drawing regularly and T-shirts and logos for people. With a usually tend towards pencil, charcoal and business partner, this gradually developed pastels on paper. I think of these drawings as into a business covering the graphic design studies for later use and rarely as works in their requirements of many resorts and tourist own right. related businesses.

For works on canvas over the years, I have I really enjoyed this work and threw myself used a variety of painting materials, but now into it completely. Being in business taught feel most comfortable with water soluble oils; me a lot about myself and about working the reason being that, like oils, they are slow with clients and staff. The creativity in graphic drying and easy to use as glazes but don't have design is a totally different discipline to that of the overwhelming smell, danger to health and formal art training. Over this period, personal mess of the solvents necessary when using oils. artistic expression was put on the back burner.

How has painting changed your life?

After selling up the business, I started Being creative has, to some degree, painting again and found that my graphics always been a part of my life, but I feel quite and formal training had combined to create a blessed at this stage to be able to put such

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a large amount of my time and energy into it. Of course, it’s also gratifying and a true compliment when someone buys your work – particularly when it’s someone you don't know, as it has obviously touched them in some way.

Have you exhibited?

My first major exhibitions were in Melbourne, and I have since exhibited in various group shows in Queensland and NSW. I have been a finalist in a number of major painting prizes, including Stanthorpe, EMSLA and the Manning. I also won the 20th Anniversary Art Prize of the Coffs Harbour Botanical Gardens, with a work inspired by a Central Australia trip.

In late 2012, my series, About face, was shown at the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery.

After winning the Matilda Miniatures Prize, I had an exhibition of works, As I see it, in June 2013 at the Matilda Gallery, Macksville.

I also have works in a group exhibition at the Kenthurst Gallery, Sydney, and an exhibition called In the Moment is at Quadrant Gallery in Melbourne from April 3. Then on 21 June I have a show with Sally Hook at Matilda Galleries in Macksville.

What plans do you have for the remains of the year?

Well, I'm certainly going to be busy until June. After that I expect to keep working and make an effort to find some other outlets for my work in Brisbane and perhaps the Gold Coast. Towards the end of the year I'm looking forward to a fabulous holiday looking at modern artworks in China. What an inspiration that could be!

Thanks Jane. www.janewilson.com.au

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Katie Pitsis.

inside this

Katie Pitsis is an international speaker, a writer, a life coach, a teen behavioural expert, an inspiration addict, a business owner and an all-round life enthusiast …Katie believes that all girls in their teens deserve to feel happy, confident and connected.

Issue 44 - May 2014

Justin + Chris Nelson.

The Nelson Twins are stand up comedians, possibly the funniest guys on the planet. Raised in rural NSW, these school teachers turned comedians travel the world making people laugh. Semi finalists in Australia’s Got Talent, the Nelson Twins are hitting the funniest night on the Mid North Coast, Camp Quality, Comics on the Run …

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8. what’s on for May 26. eat featuring local restaurants 64. social scene with Carole Beros

Betty Sara.

Back in August 1950, the previously sleepy little town of Bellingen was the centre of attention as the birth of what were to be the nation’s first surviving quadruplets was patiently awaited.

Fran Stephenson talks with the woman who was the centre of all that attention – ‘supermother’ Betty Sara.

66. star guide with Terri 82. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast

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

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

coffs coast focus 7

AROUND THE REGION //MAY 2014

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Japanese Festival Japanese Festival of Children’s Day – a unique Coffs Coast celebration. Children, families and the young at heart are invited to join the celebration at the Japanese Festival of ‘Children’s Day’ at the North Coast Botanic Garden.

When Sunday 4 May, 10am – 3pm.

Cost Free entry.

More info www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/childrensday

Biggest Morning Tea The Cancer Council NSW with the Big Banana Official Launch Event of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea. ($5 breakfast available – every cent raised on the day invested into the defeat of cancer!)

Comics on the Run Comics on the Run for Camp Quality – the funniest night on the Mid North Coast!

When Saturday 17 May. Where Sawtell RSL. Doors Open at 7pm; show starts at 8pm.

Tickets Sawtell RSL; phone 6653 1577.

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Where Big Banana, Coffs Harbour.

When 15 May (9am - 12pm).

To register for your own morning tea, phone: (02) 6639 1303.

YOGA FOR THE SEASONS Autumn 6 day Yoga Intensive DETOX. Eliminate what doesn’t serve you … clean and clear your mind and body, reduce allergies, lose weight from your bum and thighs, increase you energy levels and sense of wellbeing – all in only six days. Places are limited.

The program includes: 6 - 8 yoga classes, breakfasts, daily meal plan with yummy seasonal recipes, practical tools for a mind, body and lifestyle detox. Food as Medicine tips to help with a swift, non-toxic detox, guided relaxation/meditation, daily support from your teacher. You will feel refreshed, de-stressed, rejuvenated and inspired!

When Sunday 11 May to Friday 16 May 2014.

Contact Lisa Telford: 0401 536 653 www.yogafortheseasons.com.au

Volkswagen Ownership. Unexpected Value.

Few people know just how little it costs to own and maintain a Volkswagen. But, you’ll soon discover that it’s a lot less than you think. Our six-year or 90,000km (whichever occurs first) Capped Price Servicing is one of the longest coverage periods in the market. And unlike some other manufacturers, our scheduled service interval is only once a year or every 15,oookms (whichever occurs first). If you’re still not convinced, perhaps our three years unlimited kilometre warranty # and Roadside Assistance ^ will change your mind.

Find out more at Geoff King Volkswagen.

Your Volkswagen Partner

Geoff King Volkswagen 6 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour MD1000 Tel. 02 6659 1000 www.geoffkingmotors.com.au Capped Price Servicing is available at participating Volkswagen dealers and applies to the first 6 standard scheduled services of eligible vehicles which are scheduled to occur at every 15,000 km/12 month interval (whichever occurs first).

Exclusions and conditions apply. For details on pricing, eligibility, items not included in the capped price and for full terms and conditions please see volkswagen.com.au. Volkswagen Group Australia reserves the right to at any time modify or discontinue the Capped Price Servicing program. #Conditions apply. See www.volkswagen.com.au/en/technology_and_service/VolkswagenService/General-Warranty-Terms-and-Conditions.html ^Full terms, conditions and exclusions at www.volkswagen.com.au/en/technology_and_service/VolkswagenService/roadside-assist.html

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ft ih story o

with Tim Dodd Meet Tim Dodd from Turnstyles Barbershop. His customers come to him for a traditional haircut, shave or beard trim ... soothing hot towels and easy conversation with a bloke who understands his customers. All the way from the UK , Tim came to Coffs Coast, fell in love with the region, and shortly after shipped his family of four females to Bello.

here are you originally from; how did you find yourself on the Coffs Coast?

I am from Croydon, a multicultural hub of South London. Although I love the hustle of London, I always dreamed of raising my kids in a warmer climate ... sand, sea, and a less hectic lifestyle. With my wife and three daughters, the chances of getting a less hectic lifestyle are pretty slim (laughs).

I had been to Australia on four separate occasions, travelling the east coast trying to find paradise and when I stumbled across the Coffs Coast, I fell in love straight away. I remember one day I was at Moonee Reserve on one of those amazing sunny days; that was it – I was sold, and on that day I decided to change my family's lives forever. It was a gutsy decision, as my family had never been to the Coffs Coast. People often ask us if we miss the UK and I always reply, "No, I just miss Arsenal Football Club". I have travelled all over the world, and I wouldn't live anywhere else. Sitting back and taking in the natural beauty makes it all worth it.

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What is a brief history of barbershops? to evolve and even retrain. I still love learning. I My great great grandfather was a Polish network with barbers all over the world on social migrant in the city of London and was a barber. media, and the industry certainly isn't dying.

Barbershops are the third oldest business I have recently been asked to fly to Los in the world after the obvious Angeles by a US trade magazine ... Barbers began as minor to be a guest at a number of surgeons, hence the red famous barber shops this year and white stripes on the and to do an article on the barber poles, which age-old trade. I can’t wait I have travelled translate to bloodied to watch and learn new all over the ldn't bandages. styles and techniques. world, and I wou . se We were then Since I moved to live anywhere el Sitting back and stopped from carrying Australia, I now have tural taking in the na l out crude dentistry no fear of being taken al beauty makes it and surgery; the role out of my comfort zone. worth it.” evolved into a hairstylist, You can never know too and shaving parlour much about your trade or for me – a place for male your career. The day I stop grooming. I am proud of the wanting to improve, I will hang heritage and proud to be the last up my scissors and retire. male retreat.

Why should every man go to a Why do you think there has been a decline in barbershop? this age old tradition?

Barbers cut hair very differently to hairdressers.

I think barbering has always been popular.

I don’t want to let go of too many trade secrets, But as guys have become more ambitious with but I can tell you that every customers says it's their styles and appearance, barbers have had the experience they enjoy most. Firstly, a great

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haircut, where their needs are listened to without a million questions. They are understood in the chair. Secondly, the conversation can range from sports to politics, but you'll never hear a barber ask, "Are you going anywhere nice on holiday this year?” (Laughs). Thirdly, old techniques such as cut throat razors and scented hot towels are a must! At Turnstyles we really try to embrace the old with the new. Last but not least, good old customer service with a smile in a clean, fresh atmosphere. Every customer pays our wages, so a little gratitude does not go amiss.

What training did you undergo (and where)?

For the first two years I trained in a ladies salon in south London, with 12 stylists. It was crazy. It was here I found my love for cutting and wider knowledge of longer and shorter hair. It has served me well and widened my skills. When I completed my apprenticeship and gained my advanced qualifications, I honed in on my favourite part of the industry – barbering.

I went to Barbers School for nearly a year, then was put forward for an interview with a really old fashioned barber shop. It was like learning all over again. The two old barbers I worked for were legends. They had the best customer service skills I have ever witnessed. They cut hair in a completely different way – quickly, and with amazing results.

When did you open your first barbershop?

I opened my first barbershop when I was 23, just outside of Croydon. It was a football themed barber shop, which was great fun, with football

memorabilia covering every inch of the walls, and it became very famous very quickly.

Within eight years I had seven barbers working for me and had appeared in all the national newspapers and on tele over 38 times around the world. We had lots of famous customers and football players. We even sponsored an English Premier League Team. I sometimes look back at the interviews. They are very funny, as I was much slimmer and had lots of black, wavy hair.

How have you grown the business since then?

I opened up my first shop in Coffs in 2007 and opened up my second in Bellingen in 2012. Barbering is making a global comeback ... full circle. It is great not only to be asked for traditional services but now, the next younger generation are asking for traditional cuts. They love the unique vintage feel and atmosphere.

We treat the younger clients with the same respect the older gents receive.

I am just about to refit the Park Beach Plaza Turnstyles with a more traditional look, to match the overnight success of the Bellingen Store. I am always looking to evolve with what the customers want: the best practice. It has become very cool for people to wear our T-shirts. In Bellingen I even sell my own branded skateboards. These sell very well. I have now been in the game for 23 years and still love every day at work.

Thanks Tim. Phone 6650 0505. www.turnstylesbarbers.com coffs coast focus 11

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Coffs

Candy kitchen

Candy Kitchen Australia was created in 1988 by Master Sugar Confectioner Nils Nilsson, who began his career as an apprentice in a candy factory in Copenhagen, Denmark. With nearly 58 years of experience behind him, Nils opened Candy Kitchen's first store in Coffs Harbour. It soon became a family affair when Nils trained his sons, Brian and Allan, in the art of hand making the perfect candy. special? hen did you and your twin The special thing about our candy is that we specialise brother get in to the candy in rock candy with pictures and words running through game and why? the middle.

Our father got the Do you make personalised candy; how did you opportunity to start the Coffs come up with this idea?

Candy kitchen in 1988. I had To make a batch of candy you put sugar, glucose and finished school just before that and was looking for work, so I started working with Dad and Mum when the water in a pot, boil it 'til it gets to the right temperature, then pour the liquid onto a cold steel table and shop was ready to open. Allan came to work with add the colours and flavour you need. As us a few years later, after being a mechanic the candy begins to cool, you separate at the bowling alley. the different colours using a large What type of candy do you y The Coffs Cand pair of scissors then cool the specialise in? d de Kitchen was foun ake candy further 'til it reaches a We specialise in hard boiled m to d te in 1988 . Dad wan was taught texture similar to play dough. rock candy – something we are he candy the way From the cold table you put it p, very passionate about. hi es entic during his appr in nd on a heated table which will When did the art of creating ha by which is mostly – the way now slow the cooling down, candy begin? ic bl pu e front of th the big re allowing us to build whatever fo Sugared sweets have been be ne do it was started.” picture or words we want to put around since Egyptian times; it's candy factories in the middle. Once that is done, impossible to put a date on the it's rolled into a log, which is then modern method of boiling the sugar, extruded out into small sticks of candy but at least 200 years. and cooled 'til it sets, then cut into small, Tell us about your business … when was bite size pieces.

The Coffs Candy Kitchen founded?

Where are you located? What's unique about The Coffs Candy Kitchen was founded in 1988. Dad where you guys are situated? wanted to make candy the way he was taught during We are located at the Big Banana tourist attraction. his apprenticeship, which is mostly by hand in front of The unique thing about that is that we get to meet the public – the way it was done before the big candy not only local people, but people from interstate and factories started. overseas.

What type of training did you guys undergo?

What does a day in the office look like for you There was no apprenticeship for sugar confectionery both? in Australia; our dad taught us everything we know. If There isn’t one moment that sticks in your mind, but you want to learn now, you have to learn on the job. every day children walk into the shop, and the look on Do you make the candy on site? Can we come and their face is like they just won Willie Wonka's golden watch? ticket.

We make the candy on site in front of the public, Final words ... with about six demonstrations per day. It's quite a Our father, Nils Nilsson, did his apprenticeship in hand spectacle and it's enjoyed by people of all ages, not just made sugar confectionery in Copenhagen, Denmark, children. from 1949 to 1953.

In your opinion, what makes candy making

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focusinterview.

Katie Pitsis is an international speaker, a writer, a life coach, a teen behavioural expert, an inspiration addict, a business owner and an all-round life enthusiast …

Katie believes that all girls in their teens deserve to feel happy, confident and connected.

here did you grow up?

I grew up in Mullaway, which is about 25 minutes north of Coffs Harbour.

Tell us about the experience you had when you were 12 years of age and how that shaped who you are today?

When I was 12 years young, my mum and dad bought me and my two older brothers tickets to an Anthony Robbins Seminar. I clearly remember sitting there listening wide eyed and mind blown, hanging on every word he said and absorbing all the information like a sponge. It was the first time I realised that I really could be, do and have anything in life; it was the first time I realised that I had the power to create whatever life I desired to live. For a 12 year old, that is an extremely exciting and powerful discovery to make. This was the first thing that led me to live the life I do today.

How did that experience shape your teenage years?

How were your teenage years different to that of your peers?

At that seminar a thirst for knowledge and an intense desire to grow into the best version of me, was ignited within my heart. I wanted to learn all that I could about personal development; I was determined to make the most of the life I’d been gifted. So I started working any and every job I could get my hands on; I wrote sponsorship letters and ran raffles to fund my newfound self-empowerment obsession.

As you could imagine, my teen years were extremely 14

coffs coast focus.

different from what my peers experienced. I got to travel all over Australia attending courses, learning tools to be happy, confident and successful. I was mentored by some of the best in the business and woke up every day feeling genuinely happy to be me. I had the tool to deal with life’s challenges and a positive mindset that helped me to achieve during my teen years. This newfound confidence lead me to being school captain, DUX of my school, a property investor at 17 years old, and much more.

While I was living an amazing and fulfilling life, many of my friends and peers were really struggling, they were being brought down and negatively influenced by other people’s opinions of them. They were giving into peer pressure, some making big mistakes that they later grew to regret; they had low confidence and hated what they saw when they looked in the mirror, and many of them had little to no direction for their life or for their future and lacked self-belief and motivation (both necessary building blocks for success).

What is it about personal development that you love so much?

I love that it is gifting people the tools to make their lives better and empowering them to choose to use them. I believe we all deserve to feel happy, confident and connected; I also believe that we are the only ones who can give these things to ourselves. Personal development is just teaching people how they can access those feelings on a regular basis. I also love the ongoing ripple effect that happens when one person steps up and shines bright; I believe positivity is contagious, and it’s nice to know I’m helping to send more good out into the

world.

The saying, "If not you, then who? If not now, then when?" ... what does that mean to you?

I had been looking at my peers in horror as they unnecessarily struggled with life’s challenges and I remember thinking to myself, "I could so easily help them to get over that challenge". And as soon as I heard the quote, “If not you, then who? If not now, then when?” alongside the quote, “Each one reach one, each one teach one” at a seminar when I was 16 years old, I realised that I was doing myself, my peers and the world a dis-service by not sharing these life-changing tools I’d been so lucky to have discovered.

The quote reminds me that we have to be the change we wish to see. We all have the power to make this world a better place, and if everyone keeps waiting for others to do it, nothing will ever get done. It’s like a personal reminder, “Hey, get off your butt and do something great today!”

When did you start Free Spirit Girl?

I started FSG when I was just 16 years old; I’m now 21.

When I think back to my first ever workshop, its simplicity and purity makes me smile. It was held in my lounge room with 12 gorgeous girls; I was just a free spirited young girl with a big heart and a deep desire to make a difference.

I remember looking out at the girls at the workshop and smiling; in that moment I felt such certainty and clarity alongside a strong knowing that this is why I am here (on this earth); this is my gift to the world, this is my passion, and this will be my legacy!

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I realised that I was doing myself, my peers and the world a dis-service by not sharing these life-changing tools I’d been so lucky to have discovered.”

They say that from little things big things grow; this more compassion and awareness. small and humble beginning was the perfect launch What would you say to parents that were pad for what has now developed into an international concerned about cyber bullying? business that has empowered thousands of girls to date, Firstly, tell them to avoid all sites that allow people to plus another 7,000 online. post as anonymous; I have seen too many people being What do you teach teenage girls? bullied online on these sites. It’s pretty obvious that At Free Spirit Girl we support teen and pre-teen girls there will always be bullies out there, so I think if to let go of their fears and limitations; we you can equip your daughter/son with empower the girls to gain confidence, confidence, self-esteem, resilience, resilience and unwavering self-belief. as well as tools to deal with We teach them how to healthily bullying, they will become deal with life’s challenges, and less of a target. Encourage I remember we surround them with positive, them to find friends who e looking out at th accepting and empowered are positive and kind and hop girls at the works peers. We inspire them to who love and accept that and smiling ; in step up and be the very best them for who they are. ch moment I felt su version of themselves and I’d suggest that if arity, certainty and cl to contribute back to the your daughter is being ng alongside a stro hy w world. But Free Spirit Girl is so is cyber bullied, you should is knowing that th much more than empowering send her along to a Free I am here ...” workshops; it is a lifestyle, and it Spirit Girl workshop, so is a family. she can get the support and What is your stance on bullying? learn to build the resilience she Wow, a big topic to cover in such needs so she stops being a target. a small space. I think bullying nowadays (This is what we do best!) is out of control. People can be so mean and not Do you only coach locally? realise the effect their words have on others. Bullying is Nope, I have coaching clients from all over Australia something that has affected me personally and my year and a few international clients as well. group at school massively, which is why I am passionately You recently took your girls sky diving … what is working to help reduce it. I believe young people today the point of an exercise such as this? need two things; firstly, more resilience and secondly, At Free Spirit Girl we talk a lot about the importance

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of stepping outside your comfort zone and about having the courage to overcome your fears. Before the skydive, the girls went through a process where they identified their current limitations, fears and insecurities they were holding onto and that were holding them back. The skydive was a metaphor for leaving all of that negativity behind and choosing to soar. The girls who jumped all said, “Now that I’ve done this, it feels like I can do anything”, giving them that same unwavering self-belief and confidence I was gifted all those years ago. YAY! What do your workshops involve, and where can we find out more about the work that you do?

There are many different aspects of Free Spirit Girl.

We run workshops, do coaching, write inspiring blogs and speak in schools. However, this year our main focus is on getting 100+ girls to our January 2015, 4-day residential Teen Girl 'Step Up Now' life mastery and leadership retreat. It is going to be incredible, and we are so excited.

YOU CAN CONNECT WITH US AND GET ONGOING SUPPORT AND MOTIVATION BY: Signing up for our amazing FREE monthly newsletter: www.FreeSpiritGirl.com Checking out our amazing, inspiring and thought provoking blog: www.FreeSpiritGirl.com/blog Liking us on Facebook: Free Spirit Girl Liking us on instagram: @officialfreespiritgirl.com We believe everyone should have access to these tools and are giving away loads of free, valuable content to help with that mission – so be sure to check it all out.

You won’t be disappointed! coffs coast focus 15

focuseditorial.

GOODFELLOW Brett Goodfellow has owned and managed our local Clark Rubber Franchise for the past 14 years. The team has just moved into a brand new store next to Supercheap Auto on Mastracolas Road.

Y

ou’ve recently moved into your brand new location … what does this mean for your customers?

For 14 years Clark Rubber Coffs Harbour has operated from stores inside Park Beach HomeBase. All Clark Rubber stores across Australia are going through an upgrade programme that requires a complete refit, including a new floor surface. We got the opportunity to relocate to an adjacent building next to Supercheap Auto in Mastracolas Road.

This means that our store is now more visible and easier to locate, and the store is more user friendly for customers. We also have 22 car spaces right at our front door.

'Australias one stop pool shop’, ‘The home of foam’ and ‘The rubber experts’.

Please explain the various departments of Clark Rubber?

Yes, Clark Rubber has been specialising in three main categories of retail for more than 50 years. As our name suggests, we

sell all forms of rubber sheeting, strips, seals, matting, hosing etc. We are the biggest retailer of foam and foam products in Australia. And we are Australia’s one stop pool shop. We carry all of the products that you expect to see in a large professional pool shop. We do free water testing and on site servicing.

What is it about your new location that you're personally most excited about?

I’m very excited about the bright new bold look of the store. I’m excited about the fresh new layout of the store, making it easier for our customers to find the product they are looking for. And I am excited about the next phase of Clark Rubber’s history in Coffs Harbour, giving our customers, old and new, a better shopping experience.

Come in and see us!

Shop 2, 311 Mastracolas Rd, Coffs Harbour Phone 6650 9922.

A DAY FOR DAN A Day for Dan will be a family fun afternoon to raise funds for Daniel Hall's rehabilitation as he attempts to defy the odds and walk again.

aniel Hall, 29, was recently training to break the world record long distance jump on a dirt bike when he crashed and suffered severe spinal injuries. He shattered his spine in five places and bent his spinal cord on an acute angle. Doctors have told him he will never walk again.

Despite the bleak prognosis, Daniel has faith he will find his feet again. Daniel, who has a son, Dexter (almost 2 years old) from a previous relationship and is now expecting another child with his wife, J’naya, in October, now faces an extremely long and expensive road to recovery. This day is about celebrating the fact Daniel is still with us, whilst raising

much needed funds that will help pay for his rehabilitation and the home modifications required.

To be held at the Moonee Beach Tavern on Saturday, May 17, A Day for Dan is a family fun afternoon. It will include performances from local bands, jumping castle for the kids, a mechanical bucking bull, raffles and auction with some incredible prizes.

More information and details will be posted in the coming weeks.

If you would like to donate a prize or item for auction, please write us a private message (Facebook – A Day for Dan) or contact Laura Vines on 0438 629 315.

PETE'S DELIVERY SERVICE

WHEELY CLIPPERS MOBILE HAIRDRESSER Catrina, the owner and founder of Wheely Clippers, started her business 13 years ago before she embarked on getting married and starting a family.

able to can come to them, whether it is at their home or even workplace. She often has clients who are friends or family who all get together to catchup over a haircut! y el With a small break after an he W Catrina can be seen at the Clippers accident, Catrina is now Sunday Harbourside Markets is your one excited to announce that she stop mobile as well. is back in business and driving hairdressing Her car is very recognisable from Woopi to Macksville, ” shop.” and easily spotted. and she has regular clients in Her services include colour, foils, Bellingen too. blowdrys, sets and haircuts.

Besides being a very experienced Contact Catrina for a quote or booking hairdresser, Catrina says that her clients on 0400 488 282 or 6658 2641 or follow her love the flexibility that she offers with being on FB.

“

16 coffs coast focus.

A family owned and operated business that services the Mid North Coast.

Tell us about Pete's Delivery Service ...

We are father and son duo, Pete and Pete, and we offer a service where we can pick up or deliver items from Macksville to Woolgoolga.

We offer our customers a prompt and reliable delivery goods service, ensuring items arrive in A1 condition.

How much do you charge, and what type of items do you deliver? Jobs starting as little as $30; we pick up and deliver newly purchased white goods, furniture, antiques, art from framers, bedding, BBQs etc. Our motto is: "You ring, we bring!"… If you don't have a ute or a truck and need something delivered from store to your front door, give us a call!

Who can use the service? Anyone. If you're a business owner and you need something delivered, or if you've just purchased a new bed.

If it doesn't fit in your car, we can help. We are affordable and reliable.

When did the business begin? What's it like working with your old man every day?

We've been a team now for about three years.

It's great working with Dad every day; it's like I've never left home. It's Dad's way or the highway.

He is certainly the boss. I think our customers appreciate that we're a family run business.

0434 418 753.

6652 6454.

Friendly, speedy, reliable service A local dealer for Aristel and Hybrex phone systems; whether you’re starting out, relocating, or expanding, our experienced team will be there to provide free professional consultation and quotation.

Stocking user friendly phone systems, Klaustel Communications is equipped to accommodate for all businesses, small to large – even if you are operating from home.

Do you have a large industrial site, factory, caravan park, motel, resort, nursery or farm?

Our long range Engenius cordless phone could be perfect for you.

The EnGenius uses two-way radio technology to cover the extra distance; the more open the space, the greater the distance covered.

EnGenius Durafon provides mobility, flexibility and freedom.

Add the many user-friendly convenience features, and you have the ultimate in versatile, powerful cordless phone systems ideal for rural properties and businesses of every size.

The double coated rubber case ensures durability in any work environment. The case is shock resistant, splash-proof and features an integrated handgrip and low profile antenna.

Custom-designed websites If you're considering a website template, consider these factors first: Functionality: A templated website can only do so much; at some point in the future you may come unstuck when you need to add more content or functionality to your website.

Design: A template can start off looking good, but without the knowhow it can quickly become a mess of images and poorly formatted content, and you are left with no support to resolve it.

Search Engine Optimisation: Templated websites are often built quickly and cheaply and do not perform well in Google searches, and leave little room for improvement.

Usability: Without proper optimization, your website can be slow to load and frustrating for your clients to use. In addition, without a Content Management System, updating your website can be a slow and tedious process.

Extra knowledge required: Template sites may look like a breeze to customise, but once you pay and download a template, you may find you need additional programs to edit the template and you lack the knowledge required to get your website live and linked with your domain.

First impressions count: Your website will often be the first impression of your business. A custom designed website can help reinforce your brand values and make that first impression a positive one. We offer a FREE 30 minute website consultation to help ensure you get a great website. Call Giant Media on 6651 5322 or visit www.giantmedia.com.au

coffs coast focus 17

EDITOR'S PICKS

Gear up this month with our favourite pieces, all sourced from our local retailers. If you have a piece that you'd like featured, please email melly@focusmag.com.au

Wrap Top $129, Silk Pants nd Mimosa $169 - Phyllis and

Focal Aria Loudspeaker $4999 - Park Beach Music and HI FI

Light floor lamp Cafe, 184 cm $649 - Bunnings Warehouse

Fashion sunglasses $28 - Moire

Warby Bird Clip $5.95ea - Pillow Talk WeWood Watch $129 - Seasons Boutique

18 coffs coast focus.

SIR STAG $19.95 Typo

Colore Dame Canvas, 1700 x 1200 $649 - VAST INTERIOR

Ricardo hand blown glass vase $320 - Yellow Shed

Barnet Bench in Yellow $489 - FREEDOM FURNITURE

Mankin Large, 32cm $14.95 - Typo

Rio hardwood stool (available in blackbutt, spotted gum and Tasmanian Oak & Blue Gum $200 - Big Garden Furniture

AMALFI Pineapple Sculpture, $39.95 - Pillow Talk coffs coast focus

19

focusinterview.

The Civic Centre was located on the corner of Vernon and Castle Streets

Librarian Jan Merriman helping a customer in the Harry Bailey Memorial Library in the late 1970s

Coffs Harbour City Library Enzo Accadia is the manager of the library service and has been there for so long, he is just about part of the furniture! Enzo started at Coffs Harbour City Library in 1990 as a trainee librarian and has seen a lot of changes over this time. With the library celebrating its 50th year in operation, it's timely we catch up with Enzo ... ike most librarians, I’ve always been interested in reading and books; however, being in a position to help people find answers and learn new things, as well as providing high quality access to human knowledge, is very gratifying.

I also have a strong interest in information technology, of which libraries have always been early adopters, so it’s a great place to work.

Coffs Harbour Library is celebrating 50 years of service to our local area. Take us back to the beginning …

Coffs Harbour Shire was gazetted in 1956. A couple of years later in 1958, a conference was held in Grafton about extending the Clarence Regional Library to Coffs Harbour, Nambucca and Bellingen shires; however, it wasn’t until 1962 when Council decided to construct a new Civic Centre that plans were drawn up to include a library as part of the complex, situated on the corner of Castle and Vernon Streets. Coffs Harbour Library was officially opened on 15 April 1964, staffed by a Miss E. Grainger, who was initially assisted by staff from the Grafton Branch and was open 29.5 hours per week. Book loans for the next two months were over 11,000 issues!

Throughout that period, what have been some key developments?

The most significant developments are always new facilities, as they provide the space needed to house collections and provide areas designed to meet the needs of library customers in an expanding city.

The most recent building developments have been Toormina Library in Minorie Drive in 1998, Woolgoolga Library in Ganderton Street in 2000 and Coffs Harbour Library, which also moved into the ground floor of the Rigby House office building in 2000.

Other significant developments include the increase in professional staffing over time and technology improvements – especially the library’s management system, which automates 20 coffs coast focus.

many library functions, including our catalogue.

Our old card catalogue was replaced with computers in the early 1990s and made available online in 2000.

What activities is the library participating in to celebrate 50 years?

We held a special morning tea event on Tuesday 15 April at Coffs Harbour Library. The Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight, spoke at the event, as did Ms Frances Sims, Director of Public Library and Community Learning Services at the State Library of NSW, who delivered a message from the State Librarian. The event was well attended by the public, and everyone enjoyed our special birthday cake. Two exstaff members also spoke at the event, Ms Lorraine Vass and Ms Jan Merriman. We had an exhibition of library memorabilia, including a wonderful selection of photographs.

We also launched our ’50 stories’ project, an innovative website where we’ll be publishing 50 stories about the library’s history and its impact on the community. The website includes blog posts, photos, online oral history interviews, as well as videos. We’ll be posting new stories to the site throughout the year – visit www.ourstorycoffslibrary.info for more information.

During our anniversary week, our children’s storytime sessions celebrated with a birthday theme and we also had an informal staff reunion in the evening, which was a great way to catch up with past colleagues.

Do you find that the younger, digital generation are using libraries? How does the library engage with young people?

Yes, young people certainly use libraries, along with every other age group, and lots of them still use our hardcopy material. Young people also come in to use our public access computers, get access to faster internet speeds and to use our free wifi, especially those who don’t have adequate resources at home.

Sometimes they visit the library to simply find a quieter, more suitable area to study or work.

During our k, anniversary wee e im yt or st our children’s ith w ed at br le sessions ce e and we a birthday them al staff rm also had an info ening, ev e th in n io un re t way ea gr a which was st pa ith w up to catch colleagues.”

“

The library aims to be a safe and welcoming place for all ages.

The library also has school holiday activities, a Summer Reading Club, Youth Week activities and regular class visits. YourTutor, our free online tutoring service, is also popular with students.

How is the library staying abreast with technology?

Libraries everywhere closely watch industry trends and their community’s needs, and we’re no different. Recent technology developments at the library include e-book, e-audiobook and e-reader lending services, mobile apps for online resources such as Mango Languages and a library catalogue with Google-like search help and item recommendations for members.

Later this year we’ll be introducing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to further improve automation, including selfcheck machines for customers. These sorts of developments are mostly funded through grants obtained from the State Library.

What about the older people of today who aren't experienced with technology; do you offer any internet courses? If so, how often do you run them, and what is the cost?

The library has a digital literacy program which aims to give people the skills to access the library’s online resources, including our e-lending services. These are informal small group sessions run by our librarians and include basic introduction to the internet … and they’re free. We also partner with ABC OPEN, which conducts digital media workshops at Coffs Library.

How many people make up the team at the library? What does behind the scenes look like?

We have 20 permanent staff members, as well as a small pool of casuals; our full-time equivalent is 17.4 staff. We’re also supported

by a dedicated group of around 25 volunteers.

This team keeps our three branches operating six days a week, as well as running various programs and events and developing our collections and maintaining systems. Our workroom is located at the central library, and every inch is used for workstations, book processing and repairs, deliveries, home library and storage – it’s a hive of activity!

In your long career at the Council, what has been your favourite memory?

That’s a very hard question to answer ... there’s not really any one memory; however, I can say it is the ‘people’. Some great people work not only in libraries but also Council – clever and passionate people who want the best for their community. That and our library customers – you get to know some people really well over the years, especially those who visit the library on a daily or weekly basis; it’s a real sense of community.

What's one thing that not everyone knows about the library?

Amazingly for some, it might be that we’re free! But if I was to pick one thing, it would be our Local Studies Collection. This growing collection of material includes Council plans and reports, local history publications, oral histories and local newspapers on microfilm from as far back as 1907.

I have to ask: what's your all-time favourite book?

Confession time! I tend to read genre fiction more than anything else, specifically science fiction – much to the disdain of some of my colleagues! My favourite is Hyperion, by Dan Simmons; it’s an epic novel and superbly written. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for something different, thought-provoking and astounding.

The library has a copy, of course!

Thanks Enzo.

Term 2 Enrolments now accepted Did you know that at the Conservatorium we teach piano, keyboard, guitar – acoustic, electric and bass, woodwind – clarinet, saxophone and flute, strings – violin, viola and cello, percussion – drums and timpani, vocal – singing and choral, across contemporary, jazz and classical styles?

Don’t forget that we specialise in providing Early Childhood Music programs and that in Term 2 we are hoping to extend this to children aged from 0 - 9 months and also 9 months - 2 years, as well as for our usual 2, 3, 4 and 5 year old groups. Early Childhood music classes run for 9 weeks each term, and the cost is $90 per term plus a once-off annual administration fee.

The Conservatorium has also been busy with two new performing ensemble groups this year: a contemporary vocal group (not yet named and suggestions welcome) and The Academy Chamber Music ensemble, that had their first public performance on Saturday 5 April. Watch out for these groups in the future, as they include some of the most exceptional young performers from across the Coffs Coast region.

Sign up to receive our newsletter: www.coffscon.org.au/about-us/ and follow the links.

We return for Term 2 studies on April 28.

Yellow brick road Does your lender understand you?

Do you understand them?

It’s probably the most oft heard issue the team at Yellow Brick Road have heard over the years of working in the finance industry. My lender just doesn’t get it, and I have no idea what they’re presenting to me.

All about family entertainment The Jetty Memorial Theatre is all about family entertainment this month. We have two great family shows coming up, including one of the craziest shows to ever hit Coffs Harbour from award winning comedian Marty Putz!

Saturday 3 May High energy and hilarious, this is the first show in years that will have the whole family laughing together. Straight from the Melbourne Comedy Festival, highly acclaimed And we’re pretty good at listening and solving problems, especially Canadian comic Marty Putz, brings his show, Very Weird for some of the tricky loan scenarios like self employed customers and Slightly Dangerous, to the Jetty Theatre. Flying running their own small to medium size businesses. After all: we’re hamsters, exploding suits, weird inventions and huge self employed too!

Yellow Brick Road Coffs Harbour is fronted by Branch Principal Clinton marshmallow fights make up this visual spectacle for all ages!

Hayes, who works with his clients to offer competitive rates, an allencompassing portfolio of products and services, and expert advice to Friday 9 May – Sunday 1 June suit each individual, at a location that’s convenient for them.

CHMCC is excited to present the family favourite musical Yellow Brick Road is now open in Coffs Harbour, offering products and services for Home Loans, Financial Planning, Superannuation, Insurance and Savings.

Clinton is ably assisted by associate Leigh Johnston, who provides Financial Planning and Superannuation advice and Richard Johnson, who, in addition to being a CPA, brings with him a wealth of experience in both Commercial, Agri and Personal lending.

about the feisty red-headed orphan – Annie. With a large cast of well-known local talent and featuring possibly the most well-known children’s song, Tomorrow, Annie is an adventure for the whole family.

So give us a call – it costs nothing to find out if we’re up to the task.

Join the fun; see www.jettytheatre.com now for further details, visit or call the box office, noon – 4pm Tues to Fri: (02) 6652 8088.

Contact Clinton Hayes at Yellow Brick Road Coffs Harbour today on (02) 66537407 or email clinton.hayes@ybr.com.au

Coffs Harbour

Now Open We believe that all Australians deserve access to quality financial advice on

Home Loans • Financial Planning Superannuation Insurance • Savings Call 6653 7407 or visit us today!

ENROL TODAY to play, listen, learn & perform at Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium Bray St Complex, Cnr Bray St and Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | Phone: 02 6652 1592 Vist the new website at: www.coffscon.org.au

Yellow Brick Road Coffs Harbour Clinton Hayes - Wealth Manager & Principal The Professional Centre 9 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour T 02 6653 7407 M 0411 337 522 E clinton.hayes@ybr.com.au Yellow Brick Road Wealth Management AFSL 323825, Yellow Brick Road Finance Australian Credit Licence 393195

coffs coast focus 21

focusinterview.

Chisel Filipek is the Chuck Norris of Coffs Harbour. He is a well respected, life member of the surf lifesaving club, a black belt martial artist and a bloody fit bugger. Chisel is a family man with six grandkids. He is a friend to many and has a flock of good people under his wing. In 1997 he and his wife travelled Australia for five years. This is Chisel’s story… here are you originally from? When and why did you move to Coffs Harbour?

Back in the day we were living in Maitland…

I first arrived in Coffs Harbour in October 1972 to work on the first high rise that was to be built; they were called Creek Towers in Grafton Street. I worked on that job as a brick layer. I only planned on staying for three months, and I never left. I liked the lifestyle, and shortly after my wife and two sons, Troy and Shane, came to join me here. We all fell in love with the seaside culture, and we built our first home here in 1978 – and here we still are. Later, our third son, Dale, was born into the world.

Tell us about your wife and your three grown up children… where do they live; how many grandkids do you have?

We got married in the late '60s. My wife, Dianne, worked at the RSL for 20 odd years, and I worked in the building game. All the boys went to Orara Valley High School. After they all graduated, they shot through, off to the usual metro areas: Melbourne and Sydney. Shane and Dale live in Bondi, and Troy 22 coffs coast focus.

and his family are in Japan.

Shane is a bookmaker. Dale is an estimator/project manager, and Troy has his own school in Osaka, Japan. We have six grandkids.

You’ve been part of the surf club since day one.

How have you seen the surf club develop in the past 40 years?

I joined the surf club in 1973, and shortly after I gained my Bronze Certificate. I started boat rowing right away; I loved it, and still do it today. Back then the club was just a shed in Park Beach. First there was the bottom level, then the second level developed in 1977, and finally it was completed in 1978. As the years went by, we built a section here and there, with a lot of the work done by volunteers.

Since then the club has moved on to bigger and better things. The club has been a great breeding ground for life skills for many children. We have a highly efficiently run surf club, thanks to the hard work by volunteers and the generosity of businesses in the area. I am a life member of the club and would do it all again in a heartbeat.

You’re a die hard martial arts man. Where have you trained, and are you still teaching today?

focusinterview.

I started martial arts in 1980 with a style called ‘Zen travelling carefree, doing what we wanted to do, was Do Kai’, which was started by Soke Bob Jones from what the trip was about. We travelled in our 4x4 with Melbourne. We ran martial arts classes for a lot of a Kimberley Kamper. We tried to stay off the highways years at Orara Valley High School right through until as much as possible. Australia is really beautiful, and 1997, and we went to Brisbane for our gradings. I we saw some breathtaking countryside. If we liked gained my fifth black belt degree in 1994. a place, we’d stay. If the place was kind to us, After achieving my martial arts goals, we’d stay.

I decided I needed a new challenge, We drove through the centre to so I started to train in Thailand’s Alice Springs, and we stayed ly gh hi national sport Muay Thai here in the Cape for five months.

We have a in Coffs Harbour in 1988. A We did the Gulf and the efficiently run to the couple of years later, I went Kymberleys. Australia is a surf club, thanks nteers lu over to Thailand for the first hard work by vo of great country, and that trip ty and the generosi ea. I time to train in the discipline. with all of the freedoms that e ar businesses in th I’ve been going over there experience brought us was e r of th am a life membe it all regularly since successfully unforgettable. do club and would eat.” winning Australian and state tb How often do you get to ar he a in n agai titles with John Halgarth and Japan to see your grandkids?

Jamie Male.

We have been to Japan a lot.

I train at home every Wednesday Whenever I go to Thailand to train, night, and we are heading back to Thailand I always try to get over there to see the this month for a couple of weeks. I love training grandkids. My son is a die hard martial artist, and staying fit; it’s a great confidence booster. I and we look forward to seeing each other and have fond memories of training with my son, Troy, training together. I look forward to seeing all of my in Okinawa last August with Joju-Ryu. kids and grandkids.

Finally, you embarked on your bucket list tour What else is on the bucket list? of Australia with your wife … how long was I am really looking forward to seeing the grandkids that adventure, and what was it like travelling grown up and watching them play their chosen sport.

Australia for so long?

Personally, I want to stay active and healthy. Coffs We left to travel around Australia in 1997, and we Harbour has been kind to my family, and I am forever kind of did what I like to call a ‘Forrest Gump’ and we grateful for my time here.

Thanks Chisel. just kept going; we travelled for over five years. Just

“

coffs coast focus 23

Finding Sandy

The Juggling Project

Coffs event centre

Is a local initiative to build a vibrant and smart community.

This month – CUSTOM PRINT BALLOONS Your message and logo printed on a balloon.

Great for business, club and event promotions.

Personalise your wedding.

Create a FUN theme for your event.

All the big brands use printed balloons.

Directions Plus is encouraging everyone on the Coffs Coast to expand their brain capacity and improve their hand eye co-ordination by learning how to juggle. Good for body, mind and soul, juggling is an activity at which males and females can be equally adept, and where size and strength are not advantages. Juggling engages your problem-solving skills and is learnt step by step, so is a great model for learning in general. Juggling is joyful! People learn easily through the context of play. Scientific research has proven that juggling improves motor skills, reflexes, hand eye coordination and spatial awareness.

Often described as movement meditation, juggling improves focus and concentration. A portable workout, juggling requires little space and no expensive equipment.

It improves mobility and enhances peripheral vision.

We only print on the very best quality professional balloons.

The cost is less than you would think – the price for 1,000 balloons printed, one colour, one side, is very little more than the same quality balloon purchased from a big retail specialist balloon store. We will advise you on the best way to maximise the impact of your print and minimise its cost.

THIS MONTH'S SPECIAL: Mention 'May FOCUS' and we will waive any 'Art Work' charges in preparing your image and message as a balloon print. Get FREE one-on-one help with your technical questions and learn about your print options.

Through juggling we learn that with practice we can accomplish great things. JOIN THE JUGGLING PROJECT NOW! Directions Plus is selling sets of three professional quality juggling balls with instructions in a calico pouch for only $20. Phone 6653 2900.

Learn more at www.balloonsplus.com.au Tel: (02) 6652 7186; email: sales@balloonsplus.com.au

As a social enterprise, all proceeds from the Juggling Project will support local community programs and activities.

NEXT ISSUE we will bring you another aspect of the Coffs Event Centre.

24 coffs coast focus.

Coffs Event Centre – WOW Functions, AV Corporate, and Balloons Plus – delivering everything you need for events, parties, functions, promotions, weddings, conferences.

Donna Fairall, Director of the Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company’s production of Annie, was spoilt for choice when it came to selecting just the right 'loveable mutt' to play Annie’s dog, Sandy, in the show.

“Three dogs auditioned for the role – we were looking for a well-trained dog who bonded well with the two Annies and who definitely looked the part,” recalls Donna.

“We chose 4-year-old Labradoodle Tippy Williams, and she’s settling into the part like a pro”. Tippy’s owner, well-known local director and actor Judi Williams, has been busy teaching her the ropes – each week Tippy has special ‘bonding time’ with her Annies (Amy Hancock and Ginger Freudenstein) before actual rehearsals begin. Tippy has always been surrounded by theatre folk – as a puppy she assisted The King and I performers to perfect their Kowtows to the King by jumping on their backs and rewarding them with big wet kisses to the face. Having matured somewhat, she now takes a much more serious approach to her stagecraft. ARF! Annie will be showing at the Jetty Memorial Theatre from Friday, May 9 to Sunday, June 1. Tickets and more information are now available from the JMT Box Office 6652 8088 or online at: www.jettytheatre.com/annie

Starting a new business can no doubt feel as daunting as riding your first ever wave – scary, exciting and overwhelming all at once. And, you’re never sure if you’ll have a beautiful ride or take a dive and land face first!

F

ortunately for Darryn Quigley and Harley Ingelby, the founders of Solitary Islands Surf School, they’re still very much enjoying the ride and feel privileged to share their great passion for surfing with people every day.

Since establishing their business in 2011, the local lads have been offering surf lessons, programs and courses to all ages and abilities and now pride themselves on being one of the leading surf schools in NSW. The Solitary Islands Surf School is one of the biggest providers of the Vegemite Surfgroms Programs, an Australia wide program specifically designed to encourage 5 - 12 year olds to get involved in surfing.

Born and raised in Emerald Beach, Darryn and Harley bring plenty of experience to their business.

Harley is a professional surfer with a World Longboarding championship under his belt, and Darryn has been coaching locally and internationally for

well over a decade. Given that competing often takes Harley away from Coffs and that Darryn spends so much of his working day knee deep in one of the many amazing beaches of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, the lads needed just the right tools to run a business on the move.

Several months ago they teamed up with bcu and have found it a great fit for Solitary Islands Surf School, which they’re proud to say, has doubled each year since it started. Both are proud local businesses with a community oriented focus.

The boys agree that dealing with the helpful and efficient staff from bcu feels like “one small business talking to another.”

As partners often in different locations, Darryn and Harley are able to access the same business information online – be it from a laptop for Harley when he’s on the road, to iPhone access for Darryn as he steps out of the surf. One particular element that sets bcu apart, in Darryn’s opinion, is that

their business banking is streamlined into one account, which he finds a huge time saver come the end of the month. “It saves me three or four hours of work just because of their systems in place”.

In a beautiful and pristine marine environment, the surf school introduces kids and adults alike to recreational and competitive surfing. “I really love what I do,” says Darryn, who thoroughly enjoys seeing people of all ages fall in love with the sport of surfing. “I love dealing with people at the grassroots – helping them to appreciate and respect the ocean”. He believes their ‘workplace’, which includes beaches from Emerald to Minnie Water, are some of the most spectacular in the world.

One of the elements of Darryn’s work that always brings him great satisfaction is seeing

children and teenagers challenge themselves – particularly those who may struggle at school or in other sports. For the kids lacking in self esteem, learning to surf can be a tremendous confidence booster. “There’s no pressure on them, and it’s great fun”.

Darryn loves to witness that look of surprise followed by sheer joy when people ‘get it’ – suddenly understanding why surfing is so universally loved and thoroughly addictive!

Darryn and Harley often like to quote Hawaiian waterman Duke Kahanamoku, often called the ‘father of modern surfing’ who once said, “The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun”. On any given day it would be a tough call as to whether it’s those learning or those teaching having more fun!

coffs coast focus 25

Coffs Coast Coffs

The Outrigger Surf & Turf from The Plantation Hotel.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 26 coffs coast focus.

eat.

Fish tacos.

Lime Mexican Lime Mexican Tapas Restaurant and Bar is the newest and most unique restaurant on the Coffs Harbour Jetty Strip.

With our energetic staff, the fun and vibrant atmosphere lends itself to a menu that has been designed to share across multiple courses.

Come and check out Lime today to experience our fresh take on modern and street style Mexican food, which is complemented by a great selection of wine, Mexican cervezas, margaritas, cocktails, tequila and mezcal.

Open for dinner 7 nights from 5:30pm 'til late.

The Hoey Moey Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Come and enjoy our newly renovated hotel with spacious open Beer Garden, open plan Bar, Bistro, Drive Thru Bottle Shop, and TAB facilities.

Whether you choose one of our famous $9.50 feeds, something off our fantastic blackboard specials or straight from our newly revamped menu, there is something here to satisfy everyone.

Owners Jessica & Trent.

Come in for our famous Sunday Sessions, with LIVE entertainment from 4pm.

Head Chef David McLellan.

366 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour, Jetty Strip t 0421 573 570 e info@limemexican.com.au open: 7 nights from 5:30pm 'til late.

Bookings recommended.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour t 6652 3833 open: 7 days. Mon - Thurs and Sun: 12pm - 2.30pm; 5.30 8.30pm. Fri and Sat: 12pm - 2.30pm; 5.30 - 8.30pm.

Beachstone Café Under new management!

Come and enjoy our great coffee and fantastic food in a new friendly and relaxed environment. We have heaps of great things for the kids on our new menu, crafted by our new chef, Craige Mills, with creative twists on classic café food, using fresh, locally sourced produce. Take the chance to sit down, relax and treat yourself while you watch the kids play in the park at our doorstep.

We can also organise catering for your function or birthday, and Beachstone is the perfect place for a beach wedding on the beautiful North Sapphire Beach; it's just a short walk to your reception at Beachstone, where we will take care of all your catering needs to make it a night you will never forget.

Spinifex Restaurant Autumn is here, and so are cloudy and rainy days. It’s everything but gloomy at the Coast Hotel though, as we have rolled out our autumn menu. It’s a combination of menu items that customers keep asking for and also some new exciting dishes that are being showcased for the first time.

Head chef Sam Allinson is very excited and proud to share all of the exquisite menu items and suggests you enjoy your meal with a glass of merlot for a strong, zesty wine; or, you may enjoy the chardonnay for its softer, juicy flavour.

Dinner is concluded with one of our home-made desserts and rich, freshly ground coffee. You’ll be very glad you had the opportunity to try this menu out. If you’re in the mood to add some culinary delights into your edible life, then stop by The Coast Hotel. You won’t regret it.

Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour t 6652 3007 w www.coasthotel.com.au open: Lunch: 12.00pm - 2.30pm. Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

Head Chef Sam Allinson.

Owner Aileen Chen.

2 Beach Way, North Sapphire t 6653 6188 open: Tue - Thur: 9 - 4.

Fri - Sun: 8 - 4.

coffs coast focus

27

eat.

Coco King Prawns.

The Pier Hotel

Plantation Hotel Only got a half hour for lunch and you need a healthy meal to recharge your batteries?

Then Plantation Bar & Grill has the perfect solution for you.

Waves Bistro offers incredible value for money, with a great variety of mouth watering dishes available.

Whether you are after a $10 steak for lunch or some fresh local seafood from our extensive dinner menu, there is something for everyone at the Pier Hotel.

Come in and talk to Kieran or Dave today about planning your next function.

Our Express Lunch service has proven to be a preferred option for many local businesses. Fill out our Express Lunch order form and send to us by 10am on the day of dining, and your meal will be ready within 5 minutes of your arrival time. Another feature of convenience we offer to our on the go customers is the complimentary Discgo phone charges. The disc sits conveniently on your table and charges your phone as you dine. This is just one of the many reasons to choose The Plantation Hotel.

REVIEWED BY

Guide

AHA FINALIST “Best Family Friendly Pub”

Head Chef Dave Newick.

88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour. t 6652 3855 w www.plantationhotel.com.au

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

open 7 days. Sun - Thu: lunch noon to 2.30pm.

Dinner: 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Fri & Sat: all day dining.

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

Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar You've seen it on the news, and maybe followed the progress of the students on www.futurechefchallenge.com but now it's your opportunity to taste the magnificent food produced by the students of the Coffs Coast. Zulu's will host the top six students who participated in the future chef challenge, and assist them in producing their winning dishes as part of a six course degustation dinner! Details at www. zuluscoffs.com

Head 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.

28 coffs coast focus.

Chef John Marshall.

Why not try something different, like our breakfast pizzas?

Depot Café The Depot licensed café is all about serving exceptional food with service to match!

We offer locally roasted coffee made by passionately trained baristas; taste the difference and find out why the Depot is loved for their great espresso. Served with our truffled scrambled eggs, sautéed local mushrooms on sour dough – an unrivalled match!

Indulge yourself with our ‘After 3pm Deal’ of a house made pizza, house chardy or red or a Coopers beer for only $16.50. Enjoy an unforgettable pizza made to order from local produce.

Head Chef Rhys Graham.

Coffs Central, Upstairs, level 2 , food court – Depot Café t 6651 1812 open: 7.30am – 5pm Mon – Fri (Thurs 6.30pm), 8.30am – 4pm Saturday, 8.30am – 2pm Sunday.

eat.

Over 40 different types of sushi!

Roasted maple granola with cinnamon & vanilla fruits, honey yoghurt & chai infused milk

Hungry Bears

Café TREEO Sawtell

SUSHI / BENTO / BIBIMBAB Are you heading to the movies and looking for an amazing cultural dining experience that will keep you coming back for more? Look no further. Hungry Bears is a brand new Japanese and Korean restaurant next to Coffs cinema.

If you love sushi, you can't go past Hungry Bear. With more than 40 kinds of sushi, customers can choose their favourite or can make a plate with a whole variety of sushi. Available all menu take away / B.Y.O.

With their impressive autumn menu in full swing, make your way to Café TREEO in Sawtell and spoil yourself with some of their new favourites, such as the delicious brioche French toast with balsamic maple syrup, fresh strawberries, crispy bacon and ice cream, or the delectable pork belly salad with lychees, mint, chilli, snowpeas and caramel cashew nut dressing. Another new dish to the menu that can’t be missed is TREEO’s twist on the classic fish and chips, which consists of tempura Atlantic Salmon, roasted sweet potato chips, saffron roulis and a fennel, apple, caper salad. Don’t walk ... run!

Owners Kevin and Hanna.

3 Bray Street, Coffs Harbour t 0452 506 745 fb facebook.com/hungrybears4u

To stay up to date with the latest from TREEO, follow them on Facebook – www.fb.com/cafetreeo

Owner/Chef Duncan Elliot.

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

open: Tuesday - Sunday - lunch 11:30am 3pm. Dinner from 5pm - last order 8pm.

Pasfields Restaurant Bar Deck Pasfields provides a stunning new venue for all special occasions, with various options for smaller private areas or the fantastic new panoramic covered deck. But you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy the setting; pop in for happy hour from 4.30pm - 6pm daily and/or a light bar meal or pizza or of course, a beautiful fine dining experience. If you have a club that meets regularly, send us an email or call and we can tailor make packages for your budget. We are open anytime for bookings of 10 or more with a week's notice.

Dark chocolate & cherry tart with fresh raspberries and a pistachio dust.

Finz on The Beach Finz on the Beach is open for à la carte dining 7 days a week.

The restaurant welcomes a new season with an exciting, colourful and adventurous menu.

One of the new dessert dishes that will feature on the menu is decadent dark chocolate and cherry tart with fresh raspberries and a pistachio dust.

Contact (02) 6652 7555 to make your booking, or book online at www.dimmi.com.au

Spoil mum this mothers day with a Pasfields breakfast, morning or afternoon high tea, full a la carte lunch/dinner menu (w a free bubbly or cosmo for mum) and 4 Executive Family Spa Apt Stays to give away on the day. Limited spaces.

See the website for great promotions.

675 Pacific Highway, Korora t 6653 7710 w www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au open: Lunch Fri – Sun or any other times for bookings of >10 made in advance. Dinner nightly from 5pm, à la carte, bar menu or takeaway.

Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 2400 w www.aanuka.com.au open: from 6pm, 7 days a week.

coffs coast focus 29

eat.

Belgium Chocolate & Walnut Brownie with hot fudge sauce, vanilla bean ice cream & macerated berries.

Macauleys Restaurant Are you SERIOUS about DESSERT? So are WE! AND our NEW dessert menu is filled with a selection of divinely delicious offerings that will satisfy ANY dessert fanatic’s appetite.

Imagine desserts that are a sensory explosion of all things fresh and seasonal – wonderful fresh and zesty flavors that excite the palate.

We recommend our Belgium Chocolate and Walnut Brownie with hot fudge sauce, vanilla bean ice cream and macerated berries ... it’s UTOPIA for the chocolate lover ...

Seriously AMAZING food. Check out the rest of our NEW dessert menu at www.macauleys.com.au

Horizons Restaurant & Bar REMEMBER TO BOOK FOR MOTHER'S DAY – Sunday 11 May! All mums receive a free glass of Debortoli champagne on the day.

Breakfast: 6.30am – 10.30am. Full buffet breakfast with lots of yummy treats including eggs benedict, chocolate danishes, pancakes with berry compote and whipped butter.

Lunch: 12pm – 2.30pm. Special 2 or 3 course limited choice menu.

Dinner: 6pm – 8.30pm. Brasserie menu with winter blackboard specials.

Bookings advisable for all.

Head Chef Craig Clarke.

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

Enjoy the best ocean views on the coast in a friendly and fresh dining experience.

NEW WINTER MENU As the temperature starts to chill just a little, Horizons has unveiled its winter menu. So come in our try our mouth watering delights, remembering our Head Chef – Clinton Hunter’s – philosophy of sensational food at affordable prices.

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.

Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill MAY MEAL DEALS! $7.50 w/day lunch 11.30-2.30pm – Upgrade for just $2.50 extra get a middy of beer, wine or softdrink.

Kids Eat Free Mon night – simply buy one adults main meal and receive one kids meal absolutely free!

Tues Schnitzel night – choice of four tasty toppings –parmie, Hawaiian, outback or gravy, plus chips and salad for $12.90 Wed Great Northern Trivia & Rib night – join us for Trivia from 30th April and enjoy tasty hickory BBQ ribs with chips and salad $12.90 Thurs Surf n’ Turf night – Steak topped with prawns, plus chips and salad $14.90 Mother’s Day lunch – spoil mum with a two or three course lunch!

Flooded Gums Restaurant Head Chef of Flooded Gums, Michael Urquhart, has designed a menu that is based on classical techniques combined with current food trends to present dishes keeping in the theme that saw No. 2 Oak Street reach 2 Chef’s Hat status.

Head Chef Scott Patten.

1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour t 6652 1534 w www.coffsfishos.com.au open: 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11.30am and 5.30pm, and breakfast Wednesday and Sunday from 7.30am.

30 coffs coast focus.

Just 10 mins south of the Coffs CBD, the Flooded Gums is a Winner of 1 ‘Chef’s Hat’ in the 2013 and 2014 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guides & 2 ‘Goblets’ in the 2012 & 2013 Fine Wine Partners Wine List of the Year Awards, offering unmatched combination of setting, atmosphere, food and wine.

Out team, led by Michael Urquhart and Darren Ryan, have created modern menus for your enjoyment across breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Come and experience Michael Urquhart’s ’Hatted’ food at beautiful Bonville.

North Bonville Road, Bonville t 6653 4002 w www.bonvillegolf.com.au open: 7 days; bookings essential for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Executive Chef Michael Urquhart.

Seared prawns, kiwi berry, prosciutto, truffle infused risotto, rhubarb eschallot compote.

Saltwater Café Restaurant What's on this month!

Book now for Mother's Day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) which includes a free glass of champagne for Mum. The Emerald Beach Fair is on the 25th, and Saltwater has a special Boutique Wine Tasting Event.

It’s a perfect time of year to relax and enjoy the view. Nothing quite like a scrumptious breakfast or lunch at our beautiful café.

Thursday nights, come on a trip around the world, as each week we explore different countries and cuisines. We offer a themed menu at a cheaper price, or you can still select from our autumn menu.

If you would like to join our VIP newsletter, just go to our website and send us an email. See you soon at Saltwater!

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach t 6656 1888 w www.saltwateronthebeach.com open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, Wednesday to Saturday. Sunday breakfast, lunch and live music from 3pm.

Head Chef Adam Gallo.

REVIEWED BY

Guide

with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s

WH

AT ’ S I N

Lamb

There are two seasons to enjoy lamb: spring and autumn. Autumnal lamb though, is full of marbled flavour filled characteristics you won't get in your spring lamb. Without being morose about it, those tasty little suckers have had all summer to gorge themselves on summer grasses and become juicer and plumper for all their effort.

Recently during the Future Chef Challenege, a Dorrigo High student, Jorden Cochran, reintroduced me to the awesome flavours and tender characteristics of the autumn lamb ... in particular, to the tremendously tasty Dorrigo lamb industry.

Some things to remember when cooking such tender meat: • Allow it to rest before introducing it to the heat, as well as after you have cooked it. Don't 'startle' the meat by cooking it at room temperature.

• If you are going to crumb a cutlet or chop and want to introduce some additional seasoning, put any herbs or spices directly onto the lamb before flouring and then crumbing the lamb. It ensures those spices or herbs do not burn when directly introduced to the hot pan and oil.

• Above all, even if you have never tried it, please do yourself the tremendous favour and try serving your lamb pink; it is the hallmark of the most tremendous lamb dishes.

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

coffs coast focus 31

focus cusinterview.

Joe Fallon, owner of old time favourite Rustic Table, Woopi, has recently opened his second eatery – Rustic Mezedes – bringing to Woopi a chilled atmosphere and food that is bang on. If you're up for a meal that's like going to a friend's place for dinner, this is the place for you, with wonderful, friendly staff and a chef who comes out and chats to the customers … Rustic Mezedes is a breath of fresh air for north siders. It's not pretentious; it's just good food!

J o e F a l l o n

M e z e d e s

It's different from the rustic table; fresco it's a lot more al ld -fo bi e and airy. Th t around gh ri en doors op the the restaurant; at we space is such th out the ab ed aren't worri our g in ct fe af weather bookings.”

“ here did you grow up?

I grew up on the east end of Bellingen, next door to The Old Butter Factory. I have got a lot of great memories of childhoo; I was lucky to grow up 100 metres from the Bello River, spending most of the days fishing and swimming.

When did your interest in hospitality begin?

At a young age. I was always interested in food, as we grew most of our own fruit and vegetables … my dad loved permiculture, so we didn't go without fresh produce too often.

Where does your passion for good food derive?

I think my passion for good food started back in the days on the Bello River. My brother and I would fish for eels and drag the monsters back to our place. My dad would nail them to the back shed, cut them with a hacksaw and skin them with pliers. Then my mum would cook them in the most simple method, which was awesome. Or, we would sell them to the local Italian restaurant for $2 each. This started my passion for simplicity in food.

Your food is like no other in the region; I would describe it as 'hearty'. There is nothing worse than paying big dollars for a tiny piece of meat on a fancy bed of puree.

What's the most important thing you give your customers?

32 coffs coast focus.

Satisfaction. I want them to feel as though they had a home cooked meal, just that bit different, and that they had felt as welcome as if they were at a friend's place.

We all know you're the owner of café Rustic Table in Woolgoolga, but you've also just opened Rustic Mezedes. Why did you open the second restaurant?

My wife, Bec, and I felt as though we had outgrown the space for dinner service and wanted to offer the Woopi locals another dining option in the area. Also, we had the offer of taking on a brand new premise – which doesn't happen often in this area, so we jumped at it.

How is it different? What are the opening hours?

It's different from the rustic table; it's a lot more alfresco and airy. The bi-fold doors open right around the restaurant; the space is such that we aren't worried about the weather affecting our bookings. We're open Tuesday to Saturday from 4pm for coffee and dinner from 6pm, with a Tapas menu Friday and Saturday from 4 'til 6pm.

The team of staff you have on board is so amazing … what do your staff bring to the business?

Friendly, outgoing personalities, and they're relaxed enough to make you feel welcome.

Your most famous waiter is 'Possum'.

He is adored by all your customers … tell us how long has he worked for you and why he is such a big part of your business?

Roy (aka Possum) has been a part of my team since the early days. He brings such a positive vibe to the business. I can be having the worst day, and Roy can still make me laugh. This is a good thing, and it's hard to find someone like this.

Why do you think it's important to source local food?

Firstly, to support our local producers and of course, you know it's going to be fresh and you know where it has come from; it hasn't been sitting in the cool room or on a shelf for days. The Coffs Coast is so lucky with our local produce, and I believe it's only the beginning of exciting days ahead. Keeping it local.

Is that why your menu is ever changing?

Yes, it changes with availability, plus I tend to get bored and like to give the customers more variety.

Describe some of the food you have on the

menu ... Let's start with my favourite, braised goat shoulder ragout – my Rustic twist on lamb moussaka. Oregano salted squid with ouzo aioli and of course, Rustic BBQ baby back ribs.

Why do you think a place like Mezedes is good for Woopi? 'Cause we open when most places are shut. Instead of opening of a day, we open late afternoon and carry on into the night, offering locals and tourists another option for dining. Plus, we have the added bonus of a licensed bar, where diners can enjoy their meal with a glass of wine or cold beer on tap. We also have local live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Facilities are adequate for functions e.g. weddings, birthdays or any celebration.

Should we book to avoid disappointment?

I would recommend it, as I've learned in the early days less is more. So we only take a certain number, to ensure the customers enjoy their night.

Who's your best customer?

Our Woopi locals who have supported us from the begining and of course, my kids. Oh and of course, Melly Dee, FOCUS editor ... she made me write that.

Thanks Joe.

coffs coast focus 33

focusmusic.

YOUR MUM This Mother's Day

ENTER and WIN •Nils Nilsson & Sons•

The Observatory Penthouse

YO U C O U L D W I N M U M T H E U LT I M AT E PA C K A G E A

N

N

O

U

N

Aussie W O R L D S

C E

Luxury Penthouse Accommodation at The Observatory

WITHIN

3 nights for up to 4 people in a luxurious Penthouse overlooking Town Beach Port Macquarie.

INDIE DANCE TRIO RÜFÜS HAVE ANNOUNCED THEIR WORLDS WITHIN WORLDS NATIONAL AUSTRALIAN TOUR PRESENTED BY TRIPLE J AND CHANNEL [V]. THE EXTENSIVE TOUR IS SET TO KICK OFF IN MAY AND WILL PASS THROUGH COFFS HARBOUR, SATURDAY 7 JUNE AT C.EX.

2

014 has been good to RÜFÜS. knowing we are coming home to some big They blew crowds away at this crowds and a new live show." year's Falls and Big Day Out festivals, Set to be their last Aussie shows before they scored 3 songs in the relocate to the other side of the atlas Hottest 100 and are about to tour and start work on their to spend March and April follow up record in Berlin, touring the US (inGeorge explains,“We're cluding SXSW) and writing new music to It was amazing Europe. individually every we get the response They return to day. But we haven't at Falls did from crowds Australia in May for started working on e're really and the BDO. W eryone their biggest tour a second album ev excited to bring e e'r to date, and it will yet; we want to , so w something new e liv e also be the last time go somewhere difth working hard on ...”

RÜFÜS will tour their ferent to facilitate show right now #1, gold selling debut a different writing record, ATLAS before experience, and Berlin is returning with new different enough!” material, and the band are Having sold out their last pumped to be playing at C.ex.

17 shows on home turf, tickets Excited about their lap of the Aussie are not expected to last long! Joining map, keyboard player Jon George says, "It them on this tour will be good friend and was amazing to get the response we did from special guest Hayden James. crowds at Falls and the BDO. We're really excited to bring everyone something new, so the plug! we're working hard on the live show right now. Conceptually we want the Worlds Within SAT 07 JUN | C.EX COFFS, COFFS Worlds tour to amplify the escapist quality of HARBOUR NSW | 18+ what we tried to create with ATLAS. We don't want to give too much away, but we're thinkTickets available from ing beaches, forests, deserts, mountains, ice www.oztix.com.au plains ... that's probably enough. We're really 1300 762 545 for All Oztix Outlets. excited to tour the US and UK for two months,

&

Spa treatment for mum from endota spa to the value of $150

Total prize valued at over $1950 HOW TO ENTER

“

34 coffs coast focus.

$200 Voucher to use at The Glasshouse Box Office or Gift Shop.

1

Upload your favourite photo of you and your mum, along with 50 words about what makes her amazing - to our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/loveyourmumgiveaway

2

Share the photo with all your friends and get them to LIKE it.

3

The photo with the most number of likes at 5pm Saturday 8 May will WIN this amazing prize.

02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au

Conditions: Open to anyone. Not redeemable for any other offers, or exchangeable for cash or other goods.

Must be used within 12 months of 8th May 2014. Black out dates may apply. Check at time of booking.

focusinterview.

Wallis

comics on the run Sonja Wallis is the fundraising coordinator at Camp Quality, and once again the team are bringing Comics on the Run to Sawtell.

e all know you as the face behind our local Camp Quality team ... what hard work do you and your team do daily?

At Camp Quality, our purpose is to create a better life for every child (0 - 13 years) living with cancer in Australia. From the Coffs Harbour office, we provide programs to support over 100 families living with cancer in the Northern NSW region.

My role as Fundraising Coordinator is to look after every aspect of fundraising – from cash tins on counters to corporate and big community events. Our generous local supporters make a huge difference in helping us reach our purpose.

Your team are currently working on Comics on the Run … for those who aren't aware, what is the event about?

Comics on the Run – Camp Quality’s largest fundraising event of the year, is about bringing mainstream stand-up comedy to regional New South Wales, which they prove to do time and time again. It’s very exciting to have the Comics show back in Coffs Harbour and continuing their valued support of Camp Quality.

Camp Quality's Comics on the Run really lives up to Camp Quality's catch phrase, 'laughter is the best medicine'.

What can we expect this year?

We all feel better after a good laugh, don’t we? Camp Quality is about helping kids living with cancer and their families build up their optimism and resilience, and it’s great to spread that laughter to the wider community with the Comics on the Run show.

It’s an incredible night; everyone is there to be entertained, and the comedians always deliver. The atmosphere in the room has to be experienced!

The calibre of talent we have coming

to Comics on the Run this year is the kind for the kids and families we support. of showcase you’d see in Melbourne or In 2013, Comics on the Run raised Sydney – and it is coming right to your $21,000, which is enough to send 23 doorstep! children living with cancer to one of Camp This is your premier event. Where is it Quality’s resilience-building camps – giving this year, and what comedians are you them an essential break from hospital, bringing to Sawtell? stress and the intensity of treatment.

The Sawtell RSL is the venue for Comics Will Comics on the Run founder, Barry on the Run. The Princess Room is perfect McLeod be MC once again this year? for this type of event; the mezzanine level Absolutely! Barry McLeod, originally and tiered flooring mean if anyone heckles from Scotland, is the force behind the the comedians, they’re in the line of fire! show, so it’s only fitting he is the MC. It is a completely new, fresh and Barry is a winner of BT Publishing’s expertly balanced, star studded lineprestigious ‘Event Entertainer of the Year up this year. The hilarious Nelson Award for Australia and NZ’, and there’s Twins, finalists from Seven no-one better to host the Network's hit show evening.

Australia’s Got Talent Will there be an will feature highly auction on the It’s very with their unique night? If I'm a exciting to brand of duet business owner, s’ have the ‘Comic comedy. One can I donate show back in d an ur of Australia’s prizes prior to the bo Coffs Har r ei th favorite ng event? ui contin of comedians, actors There is an valued support ” y. and television auction on the Camp Qualit personalities, night; however, we Lawrence Mooney, already have the items will headline the show. for this event. The best way As a previous winner of businesses can support us is to Best National Act at the Perth be there on the night! This is a once International Comedy Festival a year event, so why not get your team and straight out of the Melbourne together and have a staff night out with a Comedy Festival, Lawrence promises to difference and help support a great cause finish the show off with a bang! at the same time?

As if those acts aren’t enough, we also Can we book for groups? have the fabulous Gary Bradbury, featured Of course; the more the merrier! For on Rove Live, the only sax playing standanyone who would like to book groups up comedian in the world, and Darren of 6 or more people, please call the Camp Casey, with his ‘dryer than the Simpson Quality office on 6651 4486.

Desert’ brand of humour – so there really How much are tickets, and where can is something in this show for everyone!

I get my hands on them?

How many years has this event been Tickets are just $40, which is incredible held, and how much did the event value for a lineup like this! Tickets are raise in 2013? available from the Sawtell RSL; either go in This is the 6th consecutive year Comics to reception or call them on 6653 1577. on the Run has teamed up with Camp Thanks Sonja.

Quality to help raise much needed funds

Comics on the run An all-star line-up will be gracing the stage at the Camp Quality Comics on the Run show, Sawtell RSL, Saturday 17 May! Don’t miss your chance to see the hilarious Nelson Twins, finalists from Australia’s Got Talent, one of Australia’s favorite comedians and television personalities, Lawrence Mooney, also Gary Bradbury, featured on Rove Live, the dry humoured Darren Casey, and MC of the night, Barry McLeod!

Now in its sixth year, this fun-tastic event raises much needed funds for Camp Quality the children’s cancer charity whose purpose is to create a better life for every child living with cancer in Australia.

The services provided for children (0 - 13 years) living with cancer and their families help create a better life by building optimism and resilience, with specialised programs devised to meet the identified needs of the whole family. Camp Quality connects children and their families living with cancer through interactive education and resources and creates opportunities for all families to embrace normality and celebrate life in a supportive environment.

Our camps provide children living with cancer and their families with an essential break from hospital, stress and intensity. They are especially designed to encourage strength, confidence and independence

“

coffs coast focus 35

focusinterview.

justin + chris Nelson The Nelson Twins are stand up comedians, possibly the funniest guys on the planet. Raised in rural NSW, these school teachers turned comedians travel the world making people laugh. Semi finalists in Australia’s Got Talent, the Nelson Twins are hitting the funniest night on the Mid North Coast, Camp Quality, Comics on the Run … here are you both from, and when did you get funny?

Justin: We come from a little country town in rural New South Wales. I don’t believe the town is on the map, so probably best to say that it’s near Wagga Wagga. As for being funny, I think I have always been humorous; Chris is still trying to find his feet in the comedy gam.

Chris: Justin isn’t that funny. He’s just a prop; I take him to all my gigs.

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We’ve all seen you as the semi-finalists in the television talent show, Australia’s Got Talent ... in your audition you said your mum was a prostitute and dad was in gaol? Is this true? Tell us about your childhood in rural NSW ...

Chris: We would have said anything to get on the show! Our childhood was mostly fun; it revolved around football and cricket. The games would finish when the fights started.

Justin: Or when we lost the ball in the river.

Your look is very unique … who grew what first?

Chris: Unique is a nice way to put it! Thank

you kindly. We started growing them the exact same day. We haven’t seen our chins in over 5 years; I miss my dimple!

Justin: I think you’ll find that I started growing mine first and Chris copied me.

Chris: Mine is more manly though.

This is your second time in Coffs Harbour in twelve months … what keeps bringing you back?

Justin: You’ve done your research well. Yes, we were in Coffs Harbour recently doing the Pepsi Next challenge. It was so much fun. The people of Coffs came out in droves to see us and helped us film some funny stuff for Pepsi.

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“

What about the time we had a chocolate sundae fight in McDonald’s, and we were the only ones who weren’t covered in ice cream? ”

We grew up in a dust bowl, so it’s nice to come to a is all about self confidence and public speaking. The beach town. comedy is a great way to facilitate the program. We Chris: I don’t suppose you have a job for us, so we meet some very talented kids – hopefully the next Billy could move here permanently?

Crystal or Craig McLachlan.

What are you looking forward to the most when Who writes the routines? attending Comics on the Run in Sawtell? What Chris: We always write separately and bring our ideas can we expect from your show? together before a show. I don’t like to spend any extra Justin: We love doing live stand up time at Justin’s house if I can help it. He has too many comedy; it’s a breath of fresh air from kids. the regulated performances we Being twins, you must have many funny have done on TV over the years. experiences together… is this where We find that we can be more you get your material? ourselves and probably a Chris: Yes, many. Like most We would have little cheekier. It’s also less comedians, we draw on our life said anything to ! Our embarrassing when Chris experiences. It’s easy to write a joke get on the show ostly m as w makes a mistake too, about driving your dad home from childhood fun; it revolved coz there aren’t as many the pub as a child when it actually and around foot ball people watching. happened. cricket. ” Chris: If I go down, we Justin: What about the time we both go down. had a chocolate sundae fight in Justin: You are an idiot.

McDonald’s, and we were the only Prior to working the comedy ones who weren’t covered in ice cream? circuit, you were school teachers Mum was so embarrassed, as she handed out and since then you’ve developed a napkins to all the angry bystanders. curriculum based program for high school students Have you ever had a bad performance? Or that … tell us about Stand Up and Be Counted and the doesn’t happen because you both look pretty positive impact it has on teenagers? funny, so people are already laughing?

Justin: Yes, that’s right. We both used to be Justin: As we say in the comedy game, there’s no such secondary school teachers, but we got expelled for thing as a bad performance, only a bad audience. smoking.

Chris: Well said, my friend.

Chris: This is a serious question, Justin. The program In your opinion, who is the funniest person on the

“

planet and why do they make you laugh?

Chris: I have so many favourites, it’s hard to pick one.

Mitch Hedburg was a fantastic comedian; he is my favourite one liner comedian. Ron White, Billy Connelly, Louis CK and Chris Rock are up there with the best.

Justin: I like those guys as well, but I’m also a massive fan of Dave Hughes and Mick Molloy.

You are so identical. How did your parents tell you apart when you were young?

Chris: I’m sure they would have guessed a few times but to save any catastrophes, they made Chris wear a bracelet on his ankle.

Justin: They also gave us different names.

Are you going to write a joke about the editor of FOCUS and her interview questions?

Justin: How about we do a deal ... if you put us on the front page of FOCUS, we promise not to write any jokes about you.

Chris: Seems fair.

Thanks guys.

the plug!

Comics on the Run for Camp Quality - The funniest night on the Mid North Coast!

Saturday 17 May Sawtell RSL. Doors open at 7pm; show starts at 8pm.

Tickets from the Sawtell RSL. 6653 1577

coffs coast focus 37

focuseditorial

with Steve Allen from Urunga Chamber

WHERE THE RIVER MEETS THE SEA

URUNGA

B E L L I N G E N

&

U RU N GA

NEW STORE! BELLINGEN & URUNGA

WOLF & WILLOW WO Wolf W lf & Willow is not your average store, but rather an eclec eclectic hub of fashion and design specialising in locally hand made jewellery, candles and product.

Urunga, where the Rivers Meet the Sea, and the Waterfall Way Begins! We are blessed with a beautiful natural environment and many wonderful attractions, such as the famous Urunga Boardwalk, which together make Urunga a great place to visit even for just a day! njoy njoying nj joyiing ing a wo wonderful ond nder derfful ful su sum summer mer of sunshine helped visitors and locals alike to make the t most of everything Urunga has to offer, be that surfing, fishing, boating, golfing, sipping coffee or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the local cafés, restaurants or clubs ... perhaps some browsing at one of the interesting shops, or a little pampering at one of the local hair or beauty salons. Now that there is a touch of autumn in the air, we are looking forward to Easter and ANZAC weekends for more opportunities to showcase Urunga and its surrounds.

There is always something interesting to see and do.

Situated on the foreshores of the dual Kalang and Bellinger River estuary is the very popular Urunga Heads Holiday Park. This park provides the entry point to the Boardwalk, which at one kilometre long is one of the longest boardwalks in the Southern Hemisphere. A must see and suitable for all ages and abilities, this Boardwalk is an elevated walk through the mangroves of the river estuary out to the breakwall and beach. It is Urunga’s 'City to Surf' link, and it affords those who walk on it magnificent views of the river, the beach, the township of Urunga, and the surrounding peaks of the Great Dividing Range!

The park has seen some great improvements recently, notably a fantastic new children’s playground with state of the art equipment. Also, the Holiday Park in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and the State Government have constructed a new outdoor exercise equipment area for those wanting to stay fit. With the modern picnic and BBQ facilities available, this park is a superb destination for the whole family to enjoy a great day out. There is also a choice of accommodation types on offer in the park, which provides for wonderful holiday opportunities right in the heart of Urunga.

If you’re an avid cyclist, a boating enthusiast or perhaps a budding ornithologist, the Urunga Mylestom Chamber of Commerce has a wealth of information available to help you maximise your enjoyment of our part of the world. The Chamber has produced a suite of useful brochures entitled Discover Urunga, Cycle Urunga, Boating Urunga, Birds in Urunga, Walking Urunga, and Heritage Urunga for those interested in our local history. These brochures can all be accessed freely online at www.urunga.com.

E

38 coffs coast focus.

The ccreative team behind Wolf & Willow is made up of store owne owner Keli Barber with Martha Halford and Clare Quinlan. Keli's passio passion is to source unique fashion with global and bohemian influe influences and to curate an individual environment with an attention to detail, working alongside local artisans.

Martha sources natural elements for her handcrafted designs from all corners of the world. Her current in-store collection features beautiful gemstones aura crystals and brass, with a bohemian flavour .

Clare is a local jewellery designer working with recycled sterling silver, copper and brass. Clare's inspiration comes from her extensive travels. Her current in store collection is Moroccan themed, based on her love of the country's culture and architecture. Clare's creative talents don't stop with making jewellery; her love of nature has inspired her latest addition to the store, with a collection of individual terrariums.

We would like to invite local artisans to be part of our team. If you locally create a hand made product, we would love to hear from you via wolfandwillowstore@gmail.com. Find us through Facebook and like the page to follow our creative journey.

THE YELLOW SHED “I love The Yellow Shed” is the most heard reaction from our many hundreds of customers up and down the North Coast and country areas west.

Parents who were children 25 years ago bring their children to experience the same magical journey they remember from years ago. Grandparents shop for presents for their families.

The Yellow Shed book collection is unique (over 3,000 to choose from). Deliveries come in twice a week, and any book in print can be sourced and ordered.

Yellow Shed body products and perfumery have a devoted following for their nurturing properties.

Jewellery, gemstones, lamps, and hats are among other popular products, and travellers planning overseas trips can find great gifts to take with them.

Every day The Yellow Shed lives up to its slogan: “It’s full of surprises!”

B E L L I N G E N

&

U RU N GA

BELLINGEN & URUNGA BELLINGEN RIVERSIDE COTTAGES Where are Bellingen Riverside Cottages situated? How many are there, and what makes them so unique?

We are situated on the banks off the Bellinger River, 2 km from Bellingen.

There are three self contained cottages, plus a rustic rennovated dairy.

The cabins allow you direct access to a World Heritage Rainforest and kilometres of unspoilt beaches, plus you are close to everything that Bellingen offers from boutique stores to cafés and restaurants.

I believe you can enjoy activities ranging from active to totally relaxing. Tell us about those? Yes, it is your holiday, so you can choose exactly what you like. Each cottage has a small library, so you can relax and read or if you are a bird lover, sit on your verandah and watch over 200 bird species. You can also enjoy swimming or kayaking and canoeing. Why not take in a bush walk or use the onsite gym with personal

training sessions on offer? You may like to take a yoga class or book a massage.

Who do you find books in?

We have guests book from everywhere, and we find it is a perfect escape from the big smoke!

Do you have special events like weddings there? Yes, we definitely do. We have an ideal area where a marquee can be used, and we can cater for weddings too. We can also hold health retreats and cater for girl and boy weekends away, as well as family reunions and birthday parties.

Are your cabins eco-friendly? Absolutely. We are proud of the fact that we embrace ecofriendly principles with the use of solar panels, mud bricks and local timbers.

Can people ring or find out more? Yes please: you can contact us on (02) 6655 9866 or visit our website www.bellingenriversidecottages. com.au to find out more.

AMCAL PHARMACY On entering Urunga Amcal Pharmacy, you will immediately notice that everything seems new and fresh – such is the effect of the bright lighting and clean lines of the displays ... displays that are artfully and caringly created by the team of enthusiastic assistants, who together comprise the staff at Urunga Amcal.

One aspect of Urunga Amcal Pharmacy that is by no means new is the experience of the team members. Lead by pharmacist and owner Stephen Allan for the past 22 years, the team has a combined number of years’ experience in excess of 215 in the community pharmacy industry! This adds up to wealth of knowledge across many areas, including the traditional roles of the pharmacist in health and medicines, in

the natural health and nutrition areas, skin care, baby needs and even cosmetics. Urunga Amcal’s Retail Manager, Leonie Teale said, “We pride ourselves on having the right staff in the right numbers with the right knowledge, to provide the perfect solutions for our customers”.

One of the surprising aspects for newcomers to the pharmacy is the delightful range of giftware available. Arranged as a shop within a shop at the street frontage of the pharmacy, there is an attractive and inviting array of homewares, knick knacks and gift items suitable for all ages. According to Leonie, “Local people and visitors alike have come to know the pharmacy as a place where they can pick up something a liitle different or special”. Perfect for upcoming special occasions such as Mother’s Day!

coffs coast focus 39

B E L L I N G E N

&

U RU N GA

BELLINGEN & URUNGA

BELLINGEN BUTCHERY Humble in its facade, bold in its approach.

Bellingen Butchery is holding strong, weathering the storm and surviving increasing pressure from supermarkets, authentically placed as one of the new breed of boutique meat shops emerging all over the country.

Over the past ten years, owner Kevin Aitken has built it into a unique shop which marries the best of old-school know how, friendliness, and customer focus, all essential services missing from the supermarket experience, with the best of new trends in transparent sourcing, innovative products and a knowing, cheflike approach to their care and preparation.

“Our focus is to provide customers with the chance to buy top-quality meat from qualified experienced butchers who not only know where it has come from and how it was cut, but also how best to prepare and cook it,” says Kev. Bellingen Butchery has also gained a reputation for producing exquisitely delicious bacon and ham, which according to many customers “is the best bacon on the Coffs Coast” or

40 coffs coast focus.

“best bacon we've ever had”. Kev, who travelled extensively in his youth, picked up skills and techniques from industry leaders and has developed his signature Traditionally Smoked Ham and Bacon. Being one of the few 'Bangalow Sweet Pork' stockists in the area, Kev has perfected the Bangalow Christmas Ham, with customers travelling from as far as Brisbane and Sydney to secure theirs for the festivities.

Bellingen Butchery, whilst humble in its facade, is bold in its approach, continuing to raise its sights and remaining committed to providing superior quality products and service to its valued customers.

coffs coast focus 41

Feature interview with Fran Stephenson

b e t t y

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s a r a

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s u p e r m o t h e r

B

etty, your story starts in other new brides on what they called the ‘bride England … ship’. It was with much trepidation we all met our Well, yes. I was born in new in-laws; fortunately, Percy’s family made me London. After leaving school, I very welcome. I couldn’t believe how big Australia did a hairdressing apwas, and I loved Sydney – particularly prenticeship. The Bondi Beach. Percy had found a war had started, and I joined the home for us and got a job as an WAAF in 1942. Even though ambulance driver. We were I had never driven a car in later transferred to BellinI never my life, I was trained as gen, where he was the amconsidered I did a transport driver. I was bulance superintendent. kable anything remar stationed at an aerodrome Had you and Percy es, except have babi where the Australian talked about how many st e fir but they were th ive crews were training and children you would like rv set of quads to su rth drove the young men out to have? bi e in Australia. Th ...” ir st to the planes; that’s where Our first son, Geofa ite caused qu I meet my husband, Percy, frey, was born in 1946. who was an air-gunner. We We thought we would have were very keen on each other. one or two. A big family was Percy’s plane was shot down, but certainly out of the question and fortunately all men survived and were there had been no other multiple births held prisoners in Germany for three years. It in both our families, only my aunt with twin was a worrying time, as we didn’t hear anything girls, so it was quite a shock when I found out I until eventually word filtered through that he was a was having quads.

POW. When he arrived back in England at the end Apparently the doctors didn’t tell you that you of the war, I hardly recognised him; he had lost so were having quads? much weight. He came back in May, we were marI was in hospital for about two weeks before the ried in July, then he was repatriated to Australia in birth, and I had been told that I was having triplets.

August. I didn’t arrive until January 1946 with many Apparently the doctors thought that I would suf-

“

Back in August 1950, the previously sleepy little town of Bellingen was the centre of attention as the birth of what were to be the nation’s first surviving quadruplets was patiently awaited. Fran Stephenson talks with the woman who was the centre of all that attention – ‘supermother’ Betty Sara.

42 coffs coast focus.

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s u p e r m o t h e r

fer shock if I knew I was having four babies; unbeknownst to me, the nurses had already prepared a four-crib incubator.

Tell us about the birth?

The doctor assured me, “We’ll deliver these babies. They’ll come out like peas out of a pod – all over and done with quickly”. But they didn’t. For some reason, they took their time – three days, in fact. I went in and out of labour. Alison was born on August 17th, Phillip the 18th and Judy and Mark on the 19th.

(Mark just slipped in before midnight). Even though they had three different birthdays, we celebrated them all together on the one day.

You’re quite a petite woman; having five children certainly did not destroy your figure. What was it like carry four babies?

I was huge – even though the babies were about 12 days premature, they were all a good weight – I think the combined weight was about 20 lbs.

What was your first son, Geoffrey’s, reaction when four new babies came into the household?

Poor little Geoffrey. We told him he was going to have a new little brother or sister, and we came home from hospital with four babies.

He still remembers to this day asking, “Are we going to keep all of them?”

We did our utmost not to favour the quads over Geoffrey, and so did the Women’s Weekly photographer, Ron Berg, who became so much like one of the family the children called him Uncle Ron. He always tried to include Geoffrey in the publicity.

We were very lucky to live in Bellingen, as

the people were used to us and accepted us as just another family. cky Everyone was so helpWe were very lu en ful and good to us. to live in Belling ere used The children simply as the people w ed us as pt three days trying blended in. to us and acce ily.” m fa r he to get a shot of a ot an st ju There were no baby or someone. disposable nappies How alike were the back then and not too quads both in apmany electric washing pearance and personmachines – how did you ality? cope with washing and the They were not at all alike – not feeding? identical and all had different personaliI was lucky I did have a washing machine, ties.

Phillip was laid-back; Mark was, what which was donated by one of the companies. should I say – mischievous; Alison strongThe clothes line was always full of nappies. willed; and Judy placid.

But I did have help. Percy was the ambulance As well as raising quads, plus one, you superintendent, so he was on call; it would also worked with London Baby Carriage? have been impossible without help. I had a Yes, Percy left the ambulance and we nurse for the first three months. A lady would moved to Sydney, were he took up a job with come in and prepare dinner, and a local lass Consolidated Press. The children were about would come in during the day and help with six and at school when I got an invitation to the children. The babies were all bottle fed attend the opening of the new London Baby and when they got onto solids, it all had to be Carriage shop in Sydney.

The company seemed boiled up and mashed – no tinned baby food to like me and offered me a job. I told them back then. that I’d have to get someone to supervise the You were given the title of the ‘Super children, and we came to an arrangement.

I mother’ – what was your feeling about worked as a trouble-shooter handling disgrunthat? tled customers, selling and taking phone calls Oh, I just took it in my stride. I never confor about 25 years. They were very good to sidered I did anything remarkable except have me and allowed me to have flexible hours, and babies, but they were the first set of quads to I was home by about 3pm when the children survive in Australia. The birth caused quite a got home from school. They had a wonderstir, because it took so long. About nine news fully strict nanny, Miss Rowland. crews were hanging around Bellingen for

“

You met the Queen and were even voted the Queen Elizabeth look-a-like.

Yes, I won a competition back when Jack Gerard ran the cinema in Coffs, and it was a bit of fun; people did say that I looked like the Queen.

We meet the Queen and Prince Philip in Sydney, then again in Lismore, I think. The Queen asked me how I managed when they were young babies. Prince Philip said something to Mark about not being as tall as his brother. Mark, who was never short of words, said that it was because “he gets more WeetBix than me”!

With the children grown up, you became involved in community work?

Yes, the children had all married and left home and Percy died at only 63, and by that time we had moved back to the Coffs Coast. I did quite a bit of voluntary work, mainly with Meals-on-Wheels and hospital visiting. I had quite a good voice back then and I was in various choirs, including the Coffs City Choir.

I also played croquet for many years and only gave it up about 18 months ago.

I am now 93 and live in a lovely place with lots of friends around me. I am very lucky to still drive and I play cards two or three days a week and Mah-jong on Tuesdays.

Thanks Betty.

coffs coast focus 43

focusinterview.

YOGA FOR THE SEASONS WITH LISA TELFORD

W

hat's your day job, and where do you work? Having experience from well renowned spas such as Hayman Island, Bondi Beach, Brisbane, Newcastle and the Gold Coast, I have now settled in Coffs HARBOUR and manage the beauty section at Inroe Art Hair and Beauty, located in Cinema Walk Arcade.

What services do you specialise in? Silk and Mink eyelash extensions, bridal and special occasion makeup, microdermabrasion, facials, Swedish massage, spray tanning, nails, waxing and tinting.

What products do you use? Organic Spa, Youngblood Mineral Makeup, OPI and Loving Tan. What are your secret winter skin secrets? Get a facial. It is a great way to clear out your skin.

As the climate changes, so does our skin, and a beauty therapist can help ease the transition.

Starting the winter with healthier, cleaner skin allows your cold weather skincare routine to be more effective.

E I ACONM STANTINE

Call me for a chat about your beauty needs or to book an appointment; I'd love to meet you.

0402 708 036.

YOGA F O R

T H E

SEASONS As mentioned in my last column, autumn is the season to strengthen and heal the large intestine. This aids the ability to eliminate, strengthen your blood, gives your skin a glow, slims down your bum and thighs and helps you feel hopeful, optimistic and have a more clear, sharp mind.

DR GOODRICH

O

ther than moving your body, eating well and rest, massage is a great way to relax and help eliminate toxins and stimulate the biggest organ of your body – the skin!

And you don’t have to pay anyone else to do it – you can do it yourself.

A Z U R COSMEDICA

Specialist professional medical clinic and medi spa

S

The intestines can get a bit stuck with blockages or waste. Try this belly massage.

pecialist medical director with surgical experience that is relevant to cosmetics.

1) Starting at the inside of the right hip bone, in circular motions massage up toward the inside point of the ribcage flowing the flow of the ascending colon.

Holistic approach ... incorporating Yoga

sense.

A good Our appearance is but one part first of our total identity and self ssion is re p im esteem. Some would argue, so important an important part. In our ... However, it is culture, the way we appear not the totality can affect our confidence and Affordable. of who we is often our first communication are.”

Unfortunately, self care is often with the outside world. A good viewed as the lowest priority on first impression is so important, as the family budget – in many cases, we all know. However, it is not the totality rightly so. When times are challenging, our of who we are. Just as it is OK to care own satisfaction is placed on the back burner. For about and maintain our appearance, it is also OK those who choose to act to maintain themselves, not to. ANTIAGEING is a personal choice.

Azur Cosmedica believes that effective

“

Highly trained senior therapists Azur Cosmedica is a luxurious day spa offering a complete pampering experience, once only seen in capital cities. Be surprised. Treat yourself and those you care about to a truly special and personalised experience – a spiritual indulgence.

44 coffs coast focus.

2) Continue under the ribs to the left inside of ribcage (transverse colon).

3) And then down the descending colon to the inside of the left hip.

Start again on the right side and go around (don’t reverse and go back up – we want blockages to leave the body, not be massaged back up!) Focus on those lumpy sore bits. Do this every morning for a week and feel the difference!

scientifically proven antiageing strategies should be affordable and within the reach of everyday people who live everyday lives – not just for celebrities and the wealthy.

In the webbing between your thumb and index finger is a large intestine acupuncture point. I find this point helps relieve headaches and constipation. You will feel a pea like nodule, hold and massage this point. Do both of your hands . Better still, get someone else to do it for you!

For all your beauty needs, please contact 6651 4966.

I also suggest making sure you have drunk enough water each day, especially if you suffer

constipation.

Finally, as the cold and flu season progresses help sinus and snotty noses by ‘getting upside down!’ – hold the down dog pose for 3 - 5 minutes and notice your nostrils clear.

Enjoy moving – and massaging – your body to health!

The next Autumn 6 day Yoga Intensive – Sunday 11 May to Friday 16 May 2014.

Eliminate what doesn’t serve you – clean and clear your mind and body, reduce allergies, lose weight from your bum and thighs, increase you energy levels and sense of wellbeing – all in only 6 days.

Places are limited, so call/email me to book your spot. The program includes: 6 - 8 yoga classes; All breakfasts; Daily meal plan with yummy seasonal recipes; Practical tools for a Mind, Body & Lifestyle Detox Food as Medicine tips to help with a swift, non toxic detox; Guided relaxation/meditation; Daily support from your teacher (me!)

For more info, go to www.yogafortheseasons. com.au and click on the 'intensive programs' tab. You will feel refreshed, de-stressed, rejuvenated and inspired!

Lisa Telford 0401 536 653.

focus usiin interview. nte erv rview.

Dr Andrew Ramsay is a local specialist surgeon with a particular interest in weight-loss (or bariatric) surgery. Dr Ellis Choy provides body-contouring procedures that complement and complete successful weight loss surgery.

Both surgeons consult from Coffs Harbour Surgical at Albany House, Albany Street, Coffs Harbour. Together they provide a unique collaboration between surgical specialists, and a comprehensive solution to morbid obesity in suitable patients.

DR. ELLIS CHOY

W

DR. ANDREW RAMSAY

H

ow long have you been practicing medicine, and when did you begin practicing in Coffs Harbour?

I spent my formative years in Melbourne, and graduated MBBS from the University of Melbourne in 1977 ... so it has been 36 years since I started work as a junior doctor at the Austin Hospital. My surgical career developed together with a passion for travel, and I subsequently worked in the UK, West Indies, Western Australia and Queensland before settling in Coffs Harbour in 2004. I recently celebrated my 10th anniversary here.

What inspires you to keep helping people?

I was initially inspired by my Uncle Bill, who trained as a surgeon prior to working in PNG for many years. I visited him there as a medical student in 1972, and was allowed to 'scrub in' – and have been a surgeon at heart ever since. My weightloss surgery patients are a regular source of inspiration. It is not an easy option.

Courage and commitment are required, and lives can change for the better. The advent of laparoscopic (or 'key-hole') instruments and techniques has completely changed the practice of surgery in the last 20 years, and its application to weight loss procedures I find particularly worthwhile.

When it goes well, and it usually does, my 'job satisfaction' is immense.

As well as being a general surgeon at Coffs Harbour Base Hospital, you have a private practice … what do you offer your private patients?

Coffs Harbour is blessed in so many

ways – and particularly with its hospitals.

The Coffs Harbour Base Hospital, within the Coffs Harbour Health Campus, now has a new dynamic Director of Clinical Services, so there are some very positive changes happening within our local public hospital. Baringa Private Hospital has been owned and operated by Ramsay Health Care for the past 36 years. By the way; I am not related. It is a well equipped and very comfortable 21st Century facility, with great staff and a well-deserved reputation for excellent care. There I am able to offer a range of minimally invasive procedures using laparoscopic and endoscopic techniques. The two commonly performed weight loss operations (laparoscopic gastric banding and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy) are currently not available through the local public hospital system.

What are the true benefits to your patients in having plastic surgeon, Dr. Ellis Choy, as a part of your practice?

I have had the pleasure of knowing Dr Ellis Choy over the past few years. I regularly refer patients to him after massive weight loss and have been most impressed with the quality of his work.

The weight loss journey, of course, is not just an operation. Results are best from a 'multidisciplinary team' which in my practice includes dedicated anaesthetists, surgical assistants, nurses, a psychologist, dietician, and three talented staff that run the clinic. I am delighted to welcome Ellis to the Coffs Harbour Surgical team, where patients will now be able to access the services of a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon in a familiar and friendly environment.

hen and why did you first decide to be a doctor?

I first became a doctor back in 1997 after graduating from medicine at the University of Sydney.

I always find medicine to be a very unique, fascinating discipline where its intrinsic blend of arts and science has a very direct application to the overall wellbeing of humanity. The privilege to help guide the healing process as a doctor is always a priceless reward for being an important part of the patient’s recovery journey.

What is your specialty, and why did you decide to specialise in this area of medicine?

My chosen specialty in medicine is Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. I enjoy doing plastic surgery because of its versatility, creativity and quality.

Plastic Surgery is a very versatile surgical specialty which involves a broad range of highly specialised skill sets. As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, I perform cosmetic, reconstructive and oncological procedures for a wide variety of patients ranging from the most disfigured to the most beautiful, the most geriatric to the most paediatric, and anatomically dealing with tissues from head to toe and from skin to bone. A lot of the medical conditions we treat can present as quite a challenging problem, and I often have to be really creative in maximising all the limited resources available for crafting the most suitable surgical solution. Ultimately, the quality of my plastic surgical outcomes has always aimed to achieve both a functional value as well as an elegant aesthetic result.

What brought you to Coffs Harbour?

When I decided to set up my own private practice more than three years ago, I was invited

by Baringa Private Hospital to consider the opportunity of providing some regional service for the North Coast region in NSW based in Coffs Harbour. This is due to my unique background of being an Australian trained, dually qualified Specialist Breast and Plastic Surgeon for providing a plastic surgery service for the Coffs coast region.

At my private practice, Zilver Lining Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, both in Sydney and Coffs Harbour, we provide a wide range of plastic and

cosmetic procedures, with specific focus on the latest rejuvenation and enhancement techniques involving the face, breast, body and skin.

For my public service, I have been appointed as a consultant Specialist Plastic Surgeon at Concord Hospital in Sydney. It means that I’m also able to offer all my Coffs Coast patients with a very unique loco-regional plastic surgery service between Sydney and Coffs Harbour for both private and public patients.

Why have you collaborated with Dr Andrew Ramsay, and what services are you offering patients who would usually need to travel to Sydney?

Dr Andrew Ramsay, who is a renowned bariatric surgeon based in Coffs Harbour, specialises in weight loss surgery. He has been very supportive of my practice over the years, as I also provide a multitude of body contouring procedures to complement the successful weight reduction results of many of his massive weight loss patients. As I’m now consulting out of his facility at Albany House in Coffs Harbour, our respective services have become truly integrated in providing the complete body surgical solution as a collaborative specialist surgical practice.

This is about a comprehensive approach, with our composite experience, in delivering the ultimate complete care for our patients seeking massive weight loss and body contouring surgical solutions from both bariatric and plastic surgical perspectives.

Common plastic surgical services that I provide at Coffs Harbour in these settings include: full range of cosmetic breast enhancement procedures such as: breast enlargement, breast reduction, breast lift as well as different styles of tummy tuck, liposuction, arm and body lift in achieving the ultimate body harmony through various combination of body contouring plastic surgical procedures.

Other plastic surgical services that I also provide include: full range of breast reconstructive surgery post breast cancer treatment, advanced revisional breast augmentation surgery subsequent to complications both locally and overseas, as well as a multitude of aesthetic facial plastic surgical procedures including eyelid enhancement surgery, facelift operations and rhinoplasty – nose jobs. coffs coast focus 45

JAPANESE FESTIVAL

HARA Beyond Movement Studio Welcome to HARA Beyond Movement Studio.

We specialise in The Pilates Method, YOGA, The Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis methods, massage and a boutique stocking athletic wear and natural skin and body products. We have created this space for you, to nurture and strengthen your body, mind and soul. Our Term 2 timetable includes something for everyone.

Suzanne McCarty/owner and instructor offers: Pilates and Gyrotonic Studio sessions tailored to your individual needs.

Classical Pilates MAT, Pilates MAT for healthy bones (osteoporosis specific training), functional Pilates MAT, pre and post natal Pilates, functional movement class for fall prevention. Gyrokinesis exercise class, restore and align Yoga and vinyasa yoga classes. Monthly master classes for Pilates teachers and more advanced students.

An interesting fact about Suzanne is that she was a professional ballet dancer and is an anatomy and movement geek.

Susanne Preiss/midwife, Yoga instructor, baby massage and baby swim instructor offers:

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Corporate and private Yoga sessions, Kids Yoga workshop, baby massage course, pre and post natal yoga course, early bird Hatha Yoga and Sivananda Hatha Yoga classes. Doula services for pregnancy and beyond.

of CHILDREN's DAY

An interesting fact about Susanne is that she sky dives in her spare time and plays guitar.

Jo Cunningham/Yoga instructor offers: Corporate and private Yoga sessions, teens Yoga course, therapeutic Yoga for health and Hatha Yoga classes. Monthly master classes for Yoga teachers and more advanced students.

An interesting fact about Jo is that she is an environmental scientist.

Amelia Disspain/Yoga instructor offers: SynergyYoga monthly master classes for teachers and more advanced students.

Maki Murakami/massage therapist offers: Sports and injury, remedial, deep tissue, manual lymphatic drainage, aroma therapy, trigger point, Myofacial release massages. She is the creator of One Blossom Natural Body and skin care products.

An interesting fact about Maki is that she rides a motorbike about three times her size.

A U N I Q U E C O F F S C O A S T C E L E B R AT I O N ur region is a wonderful place to bring up kids or simply enjoy being a ‘big kid’, with a great ‘back yard’ of beaches, forests and creeks and a wonderful variety of family-fun options. One unique Coffs Coast attraction for families, children and the young at heart is The Japanese Festival of ‘Children’s Day’.

Held each year on the first Sunday in May at the North Coast Botanic Garden, the festival celebrates children and childhood: Japanesestyle.

In Japan, 5th May is ‘Children’s Day’, a Public Holiday especially devoted to celebrating the healthy growth and happiness of children. It became a national holiday in 1948, but it has been a day of celebration in Japan since ancient times. For ‘Children's Day’, Japanese families fly huge carp-shaped kites called ‘Koinobori’ outside their houses and around their towns. The carp symbolises strength and success because, according to legend, a carp swam upstream, overcoming adversity to become a dragon.

Here in Coffs, The Japanese Festival of ‘Children’s Day’ will be celebrated on Sunday 4th May, at an event bursting with colour and featuring a wonderful array of performances and activities.

One of the main attractions of the festival is our own ‘Koinobori’ carp kites which are flown by Coffs Harbour City Council and the Friends of the Botanic Garden. The kites were a gift to the people of Coffs Harbour from our Japanese sister city of Sasebo via The Australia-Japan Society. The 200, brightlycoloured, giant kites flying in the wind is a wonderful sight.

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Another festival highlight – back by popular demand – is the Japanese ‘Taiko’ drumming of the Kizuna Gold Coast Taiko Team. Kizuna aims to share the power, beauty and tradition of Japanese culture by bringing their own style of ‘Taiko’ performance to the Australian Community.

Coffs Harbour Deputy Mayor Councillor Rodney Degens, member of the AustraliaJapan Society said: “It is wonderful to see Coffs Harbour embrace the special occasion of ‘Children’s Day’. Through our partnership with Sasebo, Coffs Harbour is lucky to have a very special connection with Japanese culture.

The festival is a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the customs and traditions of Japan as part of a fun, colourful and free day out.”

The Australia-Japan Society will have a stall at the festival, featuring their very popular and delicious Japanese food 'Okonomiyaki' (savoury pancakes). The festival will also include kite flying and kitemaking workshops, ornamental Japanese Koi carp, a Bonsai exhibition, story-telling and games, prize-giving for a local schools’ Haiku competition, face-painting, origami, craft activities and much more for all ages.

An array of Japanese food will be available for purchase, or the Botanic Garden makes the perfect setting for a picnic. Everyone is invited to experience a touch of Japan right here in the heart of Coffs Harbour and celebrate the magic and wonder of childhood.

For more information visit www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/childrensday or email meg.kitchner@chcc.nsw.gov.au

The team at Coffs GP Superclinic consists of many practitioners who work in a variety of areas and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

COFFS GP

ell us about your team at the GP Super Clinic.

At the moment we have GPs from an extensive background with experience in many parts of healthcare, who can accommodate patients who have just injured themselves as well as antenatal care and minor procedures.

Our other practitioners include: Karin Sutton is an excellent podiatrist who cares about her patients; Dr Jason Parkes is a Chiropractor who has a lot of experience in his area of expertise. Alex Lawrence’s ability in Sport’s Physiology is excellent. Scott Hanson is a well-known mental health nurse who has been working in Grafton for some time and has expanded his area of service to Coffs Harbour. Kyle Maloney’s work in our hospital system is legendary. Tanya Blundell has been working throughout NSW and has now settled for working in Coffs Harbour to look

after our residents and visitors. She is a great Psychologist. Paula Davis is a highly regarded Dietitian, and she has already been making her mark on clients who have been referred by our GPs. Where are you located?

If you have noticed the big grey and orange building located at Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour, then you have found us. Our building is a little bit of an icon in the area, with all the charm of a bush shed with a touch of class and a style. We are close to the sporting facilities, as well as the university. Buses run straight past our door.

Is there ample parking?

Our undercover parking is incomparable. It makes dropping into the doctor a reality. Where in the CBD you are looking constantly for a car park, here you have easy parking and quick access to our services, including pathology.

You are a one stop health hot spot. Tell us

about all the services on offer ...

At Coffs GP Superclinic you will find the services such a podiatry, dietary, physiotherapy, exercise physiology, psychology, chiropractic and mental health services. A pharmacy will be coming in the future, and we are interested in talking to radiology providers as well as dentistry services. But very importantly, we have General Practitioners who look after the everyday needs of our community. In the upcoming months we will have an audiology service, as well as the existing pathology service.

What is your overall philosophy based on why you were originally started?

The philosophy for the Coffs GP Superclinic is not only caring for the community, but ensuring that patients have access to quick and affordable healthcare. There are also many chronic diseases that can be prevented if risks are identified early, which is why there are so many practitioners working from one spot who

can look after the overall health and wellbeing of the patient. If a chronic disease is identified, then we can also potentially mitigate the effects of that disease by intervention by providing a team care environment.

Can people book an appointment online?

Appointments can be booked through our website www.coffsharbourgpsuperclinic.com.au Do you still have opportunities available for practitioners to join you there?

Coffs GP Superclinic is actively recruiting General Practitioners, radiology providers and allied health practitioners whose professions are not currently represented at the clinic.

Tell us more about your after-hours service?

Coffs GP Superclinic provides after hours service at a time when getting to a GP is difficult. We are open 7 days a week until late, so that we can support patients who have hurt themselves or mums who are worried about a little one.

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Brooke, Louise & Sheree

Coffs Coast Nutrition Coast Nutrition was established some years ago and has grown to become the area’s most trusted nutrition and dietetics practice.

Our friendly health and lifestyle experts provide a unique nutrition, dietetics and personal training service. We pride ourselves on delivering realistic advice that is tailored to the individual.

Jan Young’s Beauty Gallerie ASAP – new packaging. Updated products. NO PARABENS! Affordable skin care.

Australian made.

Psychology and Wellbeing

Buy any 3 products and receive 15% discount!

INDIO is back!

The best of Super Fine Facial Scrub, Exfoliating Cleanser, Eye Perfect, Vitamin C Serum, travel packs.

Buy any 3 products and receive a complimentary 30 min facial voucher.

ENVIRON – highly effective treatment product to strengthen the skin, increases cell turnover – ideal for all skins, especially sun damaged.

Buy any 3 products and receive a complimentary 30 min facial voucher.

PEEL TIME – book in for a peel or two! These will brighten the skin, increase cell turnover and move those dead skin cells.

Peel $50, or $80 in full facial.

Look forward to seeing you soon, Jan.

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Meet Verity Stoker. Verity has been practicing as a clinical psychologist in Coffs Harbour for over 10 years specialising in Stress and Depression Management, Postnatal Depression and Mental Health Disorders including Bipolar. She has a particular interest in Biofeedback techniques, Nutrition and Hypnotherapy.

Verity also conducts seminars and group therapy for improving assertive behaviour and manages clients through grief and bereavement.

At the Australian Psychology & Wellness Centre, Verity collaborates with a number of professionals, including Michelle Kent, our Organisational/Child & Adolescent Psychologist, Jessica Watters, our Clinical Psychology Registrar, and Kyla Holley, our Eating Disorders Counsellor.

If you are worried about yourself or someone else, talk to a doctor, call us on 6653 7489 or check us out at www.apawc.com.au

Coffs Coast Nutrition’s team consists of Louise Williams, Sheree Riley and Brooke Henry. Both Louise and Sheree are Accredited Practising Dietitians and Accredited Nutritionists with extensive university qualifications in nutrition. This enables us to manage a range of medical conditions with nutritional therapy. Louise is also a personal trainer and one of only a handful of Accredited Sports Dietitians in regional NSW. No other personal trainer or coach in the Coffs Harbour area has this level of accreditation and expertise.

Brooke has university qualifications in Human Movement and is also a personal trainer.

Our Dietitians’ areas of expertise include: • IBS - bloating, wind, diarrhoea, constipation • food intolerances (eg FODMAP diet, Failsafe Diet / Elimination Diet) • coeliac disease / gluten-free • insulin resistance, diabetes • fatigue • weight management • sports nutrition • adult and child nutrition • computer analysis to check for nutrient inadequacies • individualised meal plans • Medicare and private health fund rebates, DVA providers, home visits.

BREAST AUGMENTATION WHICH IMPLANT? WHAT SIZE? HICH IMPLANT? Breast augmentation with silicone implants has been done for over 50 years, with silicone implants first used in 1962 & saline implants in 1964.

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not a difficult decision for me to use only the best implants, namely the high cohesive biodimensional implants for my patients. I use the Natrelle (previously known as McGhan) 410 for its well established reputation for safety & quality.

Over the years, many improvements have been made by addressing problems of silicone diffusion, silicone & saline leak, rupture, deflation & migration.

These implants cost more than many others - but what price safety & peace of mind for both patient & surgeon?

Saline implants have a major problem - a valve is used to fill an empty silicone shell with sterile saline (salt water) at the time of surgery. Unfortunately, in addition to the previously mentioned problems, the saline implant has the additional risk of a valve leak in about 20% of patients.

This is probably the hardest decision for the patient! The problem is due to the fact that the same sized & shaped implant will look different on different women, due to differences in breast & chest shape & size.

Silicone gel-implants on the other hand have become better & safer, especially with the development of high cohesive gel-implants (the silicone in these implants have more cross linkages, which causes greater cohesion of the molecules of silicone) in which implant leak or migration is almost completely eliminated.

Further, the availability of biodimensional (naturally shaped) implants in a range of projections, height & width, permits "customisation" for the patient.

With all of the above changes, it was

WHAT SIZE?

Breast augmentation, while increasing size & volume, will also highlight every existing problem in nipple size & position, breast shape, position & asymmetry & chest shape & asymmetry.

There is no template or formula to follow & a photograph of a woman with implants that compliments her are not relevant to any other woman. The only thing that works is individualization & customisation.

depends on a number of factors, & the patient's compliance with the necessary postoperative care is critical. Time is well spent in going into all the details, for the patient to be well informed.

The patient is then advised to come back in a week or two, giving time for absorption of all information given.

The second consultation, at no additional cost, may be a short one, with the patients seeking some information.

If the patient has decided to go ahead with surgery she then has to choose her surgeon.

I prefer my patients to have a good think about this & want them to choose me on trust & rapport & not on price or style.

The rest is easy!

We have a good range of brassieres, fitting tops & breast-implant sizers, to take the patient through a range of implants, to help her choose the right size (or sizes, if asymmetry is significant).

HOW I DO IT

The use of a full-length mirror & a well setup digital photography studio aids in helping the patient to see herself in the mirror & in an immediately available digital image.

At the first consultation, the time is spent discussing breast augmentation, the pros & cons, the timing of surgery & the dos & dont's after surgery. The eventual result

The goal is to make a woman look good with or without clothes, to have a natural look & for her to feel happy & confident with the change in her body contour.

coffs coast focus

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Jodianne's Massage With an associate degree in Massage Therapy (N.Y. Health Sciences School, 1991) incorporating an intricate knowledge of the execution and purpose of Reflexology, Jodianne Burns brings a complete treatment therapy to busy people on the Coffs Coast.

Having lived and worked abroad for 25 years, Jodianne held her private practice in New York after offering her services and gaining skills while working in some of the finest resorts across Los Angeles, San Diego and Jamaica.

A natural born healer, Jodianne has always felt the therapeutic benefit of massage is far more than the human touch to aching muscles. In conjunction with therapies that complement massage, Jodi is able to offer a complete package for not only the physical body, but also the mind and just as importantly, the spirit.

“The connection massage creates through a relaxed state offers an open door to incorporate other beneficial therapies which have the potential to reach the maximum level of effectiveness.”

Generally, the purpose of massage therapy is aimed at physical function/pain (prevention, development, maintenance or rehabilitation) and is widely used as a stress reliever for muscular overuse and chronic pain syndromes.

“Taking advantage of the relaxed state of mind and body is to take the opportune moment to combine techniques. It just makes sense. It serves to maximise and expedite therapy to accommodate our busy lifestyles.”

Conveniently located at Coffs Harbour and Toormina, Jodianne can work in with busy schedules.

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Trying for a Baby?

Beautiful, bright healthy babies don’t happen by accident. Ensure you have the right foundations in place before conception to give your baby the best head start.

We are delighted to be able to offer you the very best support for preconception, pregnancy and birth.

Our fertility programs are tailored to meet your individual needs and are designed to support couples throughout all stages, from preconception through to birth.

If you have just started trying, we can provide you with the tools you need to better understand your cycle, so you can predict when you are most fertile.

If you are having difficulty falling pregnant, we can assist you with fertility screening to determine the source of the problem. Many causes of infertility can be easily corrected with natural therapies.

For some couples, a simple detox program is all they need to get results. Detoxification improves fertility, pregnancy and birth outcomes. It will not only bring greater benefits to your health and wellbeing, but will also provide long term benefits for your child.

Book a consultation today to create a healthier you tomorrow!

Amie Constantine I'm the new and experienced beauty therapist at Inroe Art, Hair and Beauty.

I grew up in Coffs Harbour and left when I was 19 years old to pursue my career and have come back home 7 years later with the dream of running a beauty salon. I have extensive experience and have worked all over Australia, including at the well renowned island resort Hayman Island on the Great Barrier Reef (Hayman Spa – well renowned 6 star resort with high profile clients and celebrities). I have also worked in spas and salons at Bondi Beach, Newcastle, the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

I have an amazing treatment menu and stick to using organic and natural products that are healthy for the skin and highly results driven. The skincare I use is ORGANIC SPA (a beautiful range from Byron Bay). I also stock YOUNGBLOOD mineral makeup and use this range for bridal and special occasion makeup.

I specialise in silk and mink eyelash extensions, microdermabrasion, facials, Swedish massage, spa treatments, waxing, tinting, spray tanning, nails, and makeup.

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WARREN GRIMSHAW AM

COFFS

shoulder & hand clinic By keeping abreast of latest evidence based research, we can deliver effective COFFS Common Handtreatment Injuriesand

S H Oquicker U L Doutcomes ER A N DTherapy Leaders in treatment of Shoulder& & HHand CLINIC I am lucky – I entered a career that became a passion – simply, I love what I do! The challenge to learn, discover, understand more about function and interplay of the human body both fascinates and motivates me, resulting in my post-graduate Masters Degree in Manual and Manipulative Therapy in 2000. My Masters Research was on my favourite joint – the shoulder, examining the source of pain associated with Adhesive Capsulitis [Frozen Shoulder]. This article was published in an international medical journal and quoted in future research. I later then became eligible to join the Shoulder and Elbow Physiotherapists of Australia, an elite group of physiotherapists highly skilled and experienced in treatment and research of the shoulder and elbow.

Identifying the local need, I extended into Hand Therapy – an area requiring a high degree of specialisation, ongoing education and advanced certification. To remain abreast of modern

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coffs coast focus.

treatment techniques, I continue to regularly attend Hand Therapy courses as well as both the Australian and NZ Annual Hand Therapy Conferences, but also combined International Hand Surgeon and Therapist Conferences such as New Delhi last year. I have qualified for Full Member status of the Australian Hand Therapy Association – the only one between Newcastle and the Gold Coast, saving MNC clients long distance travel to obtain highly skilled attention for any hand or upper limb injuries. Sean is also not far from achieving his Full Membership status, as he accrues the dual prerequisite of education and experience.

Not content with this, Sean is also making regular flights to Canada to extend his knowledge, training and skills examining total body function so as to integrate specific manual techniques with movement training to help people reach pain-free function, as well as optimise their performance.

Our journey of discovery is ongoing ...

Warren Grimshaw AM is an active member of the local community who combines high-level roles in both the health and education sectors. We talk to Warren about his position as Chair of the Mid North Coast Local Health District Governing Board.

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arren, you are the Chair of the Governing Board of the Mid North Coast Local Health District. Please tell us exactly what your role entails and also that of the Board ...

The Governing Board, with the Chief Executive, Stewart Dowrick, is responsible for setting the strategic directions for the district, improving patient care, monitoring the performance of the district and delivering health services within an agreed budget. Effective communication with communities also forms part of the Board’s role.

As Chair, I work with the Board and Stewart in achieving the strategic goals of the district and ensuring that the focus is always on patient safety and quality.

Aboriginal Health is a key focus of the Board, as is the promotion of new approaches to the delivery of health care. Developing policies to promote health for all ages and the provision of coordinated and integrated care is also a major consideration.

I regularly meet with community leaders and participate in state meetings and, in doing this, advocate for our district in a variety of forums.

What are some of the major improvements and initiatives the Board is moving to have implemented this year for our local communities?

The district can be proud of what has been achieved since its establishment just over three years ago. I mention particularly our emergency and surgical performance, which has brought significant benefits to the district. Our clinicians and management should be proud of what they have achieved.

Other initiatives include: the development of renal dialysis services at Macksville in collaboration with a local GP practice, the

appointment of a vascular surgeon to Coffs Harbour Base Hospital, the construction of a new sub-acute facility at Bellingen, the establishment of an Emergency Medical Unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus, extensive capital works at Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Wauchope District Memorial Hospital and Kempsey District Hospital and the launch of the Your Health Link public website.

The Board and the MNCLHD Executive are supported by a dedicated workforce of clinicians, health professionals, managers and administrative and support staff.

What do you enjoy about taking an active role in the health sector?

The health sector is critical to the wellbeing of our communities. I enjoy very much the challenges of the position and regard it as a privilege to have the opportunity to participate and contribute to the ongoing development of our health services. I enjoy working with our clinicians in seeking solutions to problems and working with our committed Board members.

The Board does make a difference, as we strive to achieve our vision of providing Quality and Excellence in Regional Health Care.

You are also actively involved in education, and as such received an AM for your services to education and to public administration. How do education and health go hand in hand?

Education and health have similar purposes in many ways, in that each is critical to our future as a nation. Each has its own challenges, but with an overriding challenge of quality provision.

I am still involved in education and training through North Coast Institute of TAFE and the NSW TAFE Board. It’s the best of both worlds. I have treasured the opportunities to participate in the progress of education and health and in their critical missions.

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Fa m i ly DayCare

Coffs Harbour Family Day Care provides a service that blends care, development and early learning with a small group setting, facilitating social competence in children aged from birth to 13 years and beyond. The educators within the service nurture children and care for them in family environment and are supported, monitored and trained by early childhood professionals.

The strong network of educators, staff, families, management and the community form our 'family day care service'...

ANET COLEMAN - We are the only local family day care service and have been providing quality childcare for the Coffs Harbour community for 30 years.

In fact, Coffs Harbour Family Day Care is the largest provider of child care in this community.

How many educators have been a part of the 30 year journey?

Our records show that 288 individual educators have provided during our 30 years of operation. Two of the educators that commenced with our service 30 years ago are still providing family day care, and we have two other ladies that have been with our service for more than 25 years.

Coffs Harbour Family Day Care is community based … who makes up the management committee, and what input does the committee have in the daily operation of Coffs Harbour Family Day Care?

Yes, we are community based and we rely on community input into the service through participation in the Management Committee.

The committee comprises educators, families and community representatives. The committee is the Approved Provider within the terms of the National 54 coffs coast focus.

Regulation and are responsible for ensuring that family day care. the service is operating within the legislative Our service philosophy hinges on respectful requirements. relationships with children, families, the community Why should parents choose Coffs and the natural environment. Our focus Harbour Family Day Care … what is positive outcomes for children, are the benefits to families? and we have a network of Family day care provides dedicated educators that have families and children demonstrated their willingness ng ki or We have w ith with a unique child care to work with families to w ps hi ns relatio e environment. The care achieve those outcomes. th in es ic other serv local a r fe is provided in a family What is your education of , ity un comm bour ar H ffs environment, a small philosophy?

Co in e offic ys per group, and offers families Children are full of that is open 5 da ur On the opportunity to develop potential and if provided with week and a 24 ho relationships with their child’s environments where they can Call Se rv ic e. ” educator. build connections with others We provide families with the and the natural environment, they security of a service that has history are confident and capable of building with the local community. We have their own theories. working relationships with other services in the Children learn and develop by exploring community, offer a local office in Coffs Harbour their world through stimulating and challenging that is open 5 days per week and a 24 hour On play – they need environments that encourage them Call Service. to try new things. We have an obligation to provide Our long association with the local children with safe and stimulating environments that community ensures that we are in the best provide them with the opportunities to learn, grow position to find a suitable educator to provide and most importantly, have fun.

“

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MEET FOUR VETERAN EDUCATORS: WOMEN WHO HAVE BEEN HERE FROM THE BEGINNING …

RIDDELL How long have you been working with th y the team at Coffs Harbour Family Day Care?

I have been a Child Care Educator with CHFDC for 26 years. I hadn’t planned on a long term career in the childcare industry, but I found it very rewarding. I enjoy running my fe own business and find it a perfect work/life balance. nge in How have you seen the industry change the 3 decades you’ve been in the industry?

The changes have been enormous, for families, childcare services and educators.

Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate made a difference to affordability of childcare.

The selection of educators and licensing of premises became more regulated. Professional development for educators was promoted.

The introduction of the National Quality Framework, educator qualifications (minimum Certificate 3) and changes in ratios took effect in January 2014.

What is your childcare philosophy?

I aim to provide a warm, inviting environment to allow children to feel comfortable and safe, which in turn enables them to play, createe and explore.

CARLE

I believe in open communication with families, respecting their family values. I feel it is extremely important to work collaboratively with families to develop positive relationships.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working with children and families?

For me, seeing the smile on a child’s face and the pride they show each time they achieve. Children learn so much through play and investigation and to share that special bond is a great feeling. I have been privileged to share in the lives of many families. My mind is packed with memories, and I have made some amazing friends who will always be part of my family.

2 Teach is 2 Touch a Life Forever.

30 years in the business … wow! What ke keeps you in the industry? elationThe love of children and the great relationsh ship you build with families.

The challenge to operate a successfull busine bility. ness to suit your individual needs. Flexibility.

N cators No two days are ever the same, as educators vice may have different children in their service reat adeach day. Working from home was a great vantage when my children were young,, giving them the opportunity to have children outside the family and of different cultures to play and learn with. I now have my grandsons in care.

What's the most refreshing thing about the career you've chosen?

Meeting past children from my service; no matter how long since you have seen them, they still recognise and acknowledge you with a smile and a hug.

What’s the most important thing to you when it comes to educating young people?

A children are unique. I encourage each All

child to learn, explore and grow at their own pace without any pressure.

Respecting their individuality – catering for their needs and listening to their voices then providing those opportunities. It's rewarding to see their proud faces when they achieve their goals, like writing their name, catching a ball or riding a bike. Also, not forgetting the importance of play; it's amazing what children learn through play.

SPEER WELLS Coming into your 26th year in childcare ... did you always want a career in the industry?

I originally trained as a secretary. After my husband and I welcomed two girls into our lives, I realised how wonderful it was to be thee educator of a small child. I began child care as a career when a relative required care for two children. Every child that comes into my care provides me with the satisfaction I need to g continue in child care. Teaching them, reading to them, encouraging children to develop life skills makes a great career.

What is your overall child care philosophy?

I let them be ‘little’, fill their hearts with laughter, help them grow wings, nurture their sense of wonder, inspire them to believe and love them like there is no tomorrow.

Can you share with us a story about when you've bumped in to a grown adult that

you once knew as young child?

My husband and I were at a local restaurant for dinner one evening, and we were served by a young girl who had been in my family day care service many years prior. She was overjoyed to see us and told me that she would never forget the fun things she learned and how much she enjoyed coming to my home.

30 years you've been in child care … what hat do you love about it?

I love making a difference. Caring for a chi child means that their life and the lives of tho er. those around them is now better and happier.

Enc d Encouraging humour, curiosity, empathy and res resilience in a child, watching them emerge and blossom to become the basis of their per hips personality and forming respectful relationships wit with others.

Ho e in How have you seen the industry change all of those years?

W When I started, we were FDC 'Mums' and per perceived as babysitters. A bit more legislation d training, and we became FDC 'carers', but and struggled with being seen as the best place for babies before they moved on to preschool.

Now we are FDC educators, whose expertise in play based learning and community involvement is recognised.

Tell us your funniest story with working with children?

Marine life has been a hot topic in my

service for two weeks. To extend this experience, we went to the National Marine Science Centre in Coffs Harbour. During the slide show, the children in my care would name the marine creatures: crab, sea dragon, dolphin – but then came the shark. Did they say shark? No ... they said dah dum, dah dum, dum (Jaws?)

Everyone laughed, and my children were delighted at the reaction. At the end of the show, the children stood up, turned around and took a bow.

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Photography by Ian Simpson Images.

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Want to get involved in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea? Host a tea at work, school or in your local community to help people whose lives have been affected by cancer. It's simple; all you need to do is register for the morning tea at www.biggestmorningtea.com or call your local office on 6639 1303.

Local celeb ambassador Simmone Jade Mackinnon will of course be attending the official launch of the campaign at the Big Banana on 15 May.

Simmone Jade Mackinnon ustralia’s Biggest Morning Tea turns 21 this year – it must feel pretty special to be the local campaign ambassador?

I’m really happy and feel incredibly honoured to play such a vital part in the Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Campaign this year. But as we all know, the real work happens behind the scenes. Last year over 1,000 people across Northern NSW registered for the event, helping Cancer Council to fundraise over $12.7 million. This year the target is $13 million and it is so special to be a part of that.

Cancer Council NSW is launching Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea in Coffs Harbour this year. What can we expect at this very special event?

I am very excited to announce that the official Launch Event of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea will be held at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour on 15 May, from 9am - 12pm. This is a public event, so anyone can come along for the fun.

In partnership with the Big Banana, the Cancer Council will be serving up fresh tea, coffee and baked goods. We will be open all morning, so drop in quickly, or stay for the day! It’s all for a great cause, and every cent will be invested back into prevention, advocacy campaigns, local supportive services and of course research. For only $5, you can expect a cuppa and a scone or pastry, along with activities for the kids, including free face painting. If you are a collector, there will be plenty of official Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea merchandise available for public purchase.

Of course, I will be there too! A big thank you must be made to the Big Banana, who is proudly supporting this community event. It is through generous local businesses like the Big Banana

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that such special occasions aree made possible.

1 in 2 people are If you are a affected by cancer – collector, there what is your cancer will be plenty of ’s connection? official Australia ng My dad is in an ni Biggest Mor se ongoing battle with Tea merchandi blic pu r fo e prostate cancer as bl availa se, I ur we speak, and I have purchase. Of co ” o! to e will be ther had two aunts who like you to really make a difhave fought and won ference – so join us and have a their battles against this cuppa for cancer! horrible disease. I know how How can people get involved with lucky as a family we have been (in Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea? a sense), considering the statistics. Last year For the past 21 years people all over NSW have over 5,502 people were diagnosed with cancer gathered in living rooms, community centres, across Northern NSW, in which 1,841 of these schools and workplaces to celebrate this beloved individuals very sadly lost their battle. We stand Australian event. If you can’t make it to our ofand fight for all of those people. ficial launch on 15 May, you can hold your own Why is it important for people to come morning tea! Why not organise a morning tea together to support events like this – do you at work, school or with family and friends. After have a message for the community? all, the event is about getting your loved ones Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is the Cancer together and doing your bit to defeat cancer!

Councils biggest fundraiser for the year and what The official day of the Morning Tea is Thursday, a lovely way to come together as a community, to 22 May, but you can host an event any time durshare stories, enjoy some yummy healthy treats ing May or June. That’s the beauty of it – hosts and just be thankful we have dedicated people can organise a special Morning Tea event relevant out there fighting for us every day to find a cure to them ans their lifestyle. Registrations are now for this disease. open and signing up is easy, simply visit www.

Cancer Council is the largest independent biggestmorningtea.com.au or call your local offunder of cancer research in Australia, granting fice on (02) 6639 1303. more than $54 million to cancer research last Where does the money go? year alone. Importantly, they also advocate for This year Cancer Council NSW will be supportthe rights of cancer patients for best treatment ed by over 11,500 generous morning tea hosts. and supportive care, and provide information With your help, we aim to fundraise a total of and support for anyone affected by cancer (such $4.8million state wide! These funds will directly as the Cancer Council Helpline - 13 11 20). As a contribute to Cancer Council’s life-saving work charity they rely on the generosity of supporters

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into prevention programs, world class research and support services for all people affected by cancer.

Every dollar counts in the fight against cancer, and from as little as $5 you are helping to fund ground-breaking research into new and better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. Closer to home you are helping the Cancer Council fund local accommodation facilities, which provide 1,970 cancer patients and their carers with a safe place to stay during their cancer journey.

You are also assisting over 700 patients per year to access treatment through our transport to treatment project and you are ensuring 83,000 young people have access to adequate sun safety resources through the SunSmart program.

These are just a few of the ways we are working together to defeat cancer.

the plug!

Register to hold your own event: www.biggestmorningtea.com.au Cancer Council NSW with Madura Tea Estates will be holding Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea Official Launch Event at The Big Banana Coffs Harbour on 15 May, 9am - 12pm.

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Mother’s Day “To Mum, with love and kisses and lots of special Mother’s Day wishes from Lucy” (or Grace, or Emily, or Jack or Tom) ...

Mums with a smart phone will love the new $6.95 Dri-Phone pouch, the phone Power Bank that’s only $24.95, and the App-writer Genie – gifts with a difference.

Mother’s Day shopping is too easy at Love & Kisses, with great little gifts starting at $5 pocket money prices.

Maybe you’ll choose a lace hanky or an English fine art jigsaw puzzle for Grandma, and bamboo garden gloves for Nana. And if you really want to spoil your mum, there’s a great range of handbags and wallets from fun to finest leather.

There are hundreds of new scarves in a rainbow of colours and patterns from $9.95 (great if you have to post), and check out the scarf jewellery and scarf hangers too.

Watches are the current hot sellers, and bracelet watches with extra large numbers are the winners.

So be sure to call in just to see what else is new this week, and remember … when you need to give a gift with love and kisses, Love & Kisses is the first place to go.

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Day s ’ r e h Dayrd MMoottheri’fstDay Mother’s Card G a C Gif tCard Gift

s o c i a l s c e n e with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Below. Chris Mills, Brittnay Ward, Nikki Hardaker, Nathen Gosling, Sam Gamgee, Keely Standford and Kailee Ward

Above. Nita Robson, Bim Morton, Steve Brandse, Denise Knight, Vivien Rink Right. Rachel Pollard, Minnie Metcalfe, Prue Metcalfe

Left. Sean Durant, Adam Wood, Gerry Heaney, Simon Booth, Jodi Wood, Melissa Eichmann

Social/scene.

Above. Kris Fowler, Al Wallace, John Liddicoat, Rob Scott, Nathan Fowler Right. Annie Seaton, Jenn J. McLeod, Greg Barron, Jeannette McAnderson and Shannon Garner

Lots of changes for the Coffs Coast lately, making the region even more fabulous. Of course, the scenery is beautiful, but our shopping centres are sensational. Smaller suburbs such as Sawtell, Woolgoolga, Urunga and Bellingen are buzzing with new eateries and enticing boutique style stores.

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hese destinations make great day trips without having to travel too far.

Talking about boutiques, Maria Metcalfe was spied with friends celebrating the opening of her beautiful new store, Miss Minnies, First Avenue, Sawtell. The exquisite Bella Cosa Antique shop has moved in to a new space directly across the road.

The quaint and dearly missed Sawtell Cinema has reopened its doors for a few weeks with an exciting new exhibition called Designers Connect Inc, which displays new designer products including gorgeous pieces from ‘Toys of Wood’. I attended the launch, which was opened by our Lady Mayor Denise Knight.

The Biggest Morning Tea is celebrated in May. Just a reminder to purchase your tickets for the Biggest Morning Tea Fashion Parade, which will be staged at the Bonville Golf Course. Tickets are available at Parry Jewellers, Seasons Boutique and House of Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell. The Big Banana is also hosting their Biggest Morning Tea as a breakfast from 9 - 12 on Thursday 15 May, with a celebrity guest speaker.

We attended a book launch at Toormina Book Warehouse just recently to celebrate Jenn J McLeod’s second book. Our delightful Mayoress Denise Knight officially opened the launch and welcomed guests to the event. The book Simmering Season is the much anticipated follow up to House for all Seasons, which secured local Bonville author Jennifer Mcleod 5th place in the Nielsen Bookscan’s 2013 best selling debut novel list. That was certainly something to celebrate, so after

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the launch the group treated themselves to dinner and drinks Business, the students gained lifelong friendships, established down at the Coastal Sawtell Hotel. important support networks and increased self-esteem and Back in Coffs Harbour City Square, I attended a handing respect for themselves. over ceremony, which was to celebrate Mr Kris Fowler from It was definitely an uplifting evening. To make it all the Emerald Beach Holiday Park,winning a brand more special, The KAPOW label was designed by Josh new gleaming Toyota Hilux Ute. The McIntosh, who just happens to be one of these competition had been run by Novaskill talented young people. and General Manager John LidSarong Bar’s Social group and Boardriders s dicoat, who publicly handed over Club recently had a meeting and get toff Back in Co re ua Sq ty the key to Mr Fowler from the gether to celebrate new members to the Ci Harbour er ov g in nd ha Holiday Park. This terrific ute group.

It was a welcoming evening and a I attended to as w ch hi w was presented for engaging of course, owner Tim Amson served y, ceremon wler Fo s ri K r M e and supporting traineeships up a delicious Thai style banquet for at celebr ach Be d al er Em as a company promotion. It his guests and served the ladies some from inning is fantastic to see our local fabulous fancy cocktails!

Sounds like Holiday Park w eaming a brand new gl community proudly supporting fun to me! te.”

Toyota Hilux U our youth and offering a chance I also had the pleasure of attending to build skills and develop career the opening of The Harbour Hair in its new paths into the future. location in Coffs Central. Food and drinks were We all attended a presentation night served, as well as special opening night offers. I at the Coffs Harbour Showground. This was met Chris and her passionate staff, and they told me a night to celebrate the graduation of an inspirthey love creating a unique experience for every client. ing group of young people from the inaugural I will take this opportunity to mention I’m about to give Key Employment ‘KAPOW’ (Kids and the Power of the boys a rest... ‘The son’ has been more than patient with Work). FOCUS, along with Andrew Hickingbottom from Digimy nonstop teasing, as has my husband! Four years, to be tal Strategy Lab had the pleasure of snapping and videoing exact. I am still part of the FOCUS crew and still loving every some very proud young people and their families. Guests got minute of it! to sit down and relax and enjoy a delicious dinner provided Carole

by The Spare Chef. Along with achieving a Certificate II in Le Dain Designs

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The Coffs Harbour Agricultural Show is BACK, and we're excited. Celebrating its 100th year, there is a lot to look forward to this year!

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t all starts with a free sausage sizzle breakfast at the Showground on Wednesday 14 May followed by a Centenary Dinner on Wednesday night, and everyone’s welcome! Friday night's bull ride will start the Show with a bang. Saturday and Sunday are both huge days, so check out the timetables and plot your course ahead of time.

This year a community float parade on Sunday will be a chance for a not-for profit organisation to win $1,000.

How has the show developed locally?

Over the past century, through some very trying times, our townsfolk still managed to run the annual Show most years. The Show Society continues to maintain the Ag Show’s relevance in 2014 by providing an expo for all things local.

While there’s still a number of very successful

operators in the timber, banana, beef, dairy, fishing and cropping industries, ratios have changed significantly over the century and the less traditional blueberry, macadamia, coffee, avocado, plantation timber and other industries continue to expand. Due to the district’s shift towards urbanisation, the Society has increased entertainment to cater to its changing community.

What entertainment will the show have?

John Scott’s bull ride and bucking ponies on Friday night, as well as the Showmen’s rides and sideshows … Mowing racing, including a celebrity race, the boxing tent, chainsaw racing and wood chop. Fresh from the Sydney Royal Easter Show comes My Pet Dinosaurs, including Baby T-rex. Peppa Pig and the fireworks spectacular. Nine Sons of Dan will be back to

perform on Sunday, as Rally Australia cars hit the arena ahead of the Demolition Derby … we just don't have enough space!

Is it an all ages event?

Yes! The PAVILION exhibits are evidence that practically every demographic is represented. Thanks to an observant father, we even have 'selfless' in the children’s photography section.

The farmyard is safely tucked away towards the back of the grounds, with tables, chairs, umbrellas and hay bales to cater for the families of young children.

The Coffs Harbour & District Girl Guides have a programme of old fashioned games for children.

YOUTH by YOUTH for you is a local talent stage managed by the Toormina High School

Entertainment students and facilitated by teacher Robert Mill.

Our stylised version of the old boxing tent is a real man pleaser, along with the chainsaw racing, woodchop and motor dealers displays.

Tractor dealers and a host of other farm equipment interest men and women of the land.

Foodies can catch some cooking demonstrations in the gourmet food marquee, where there’ll also be children's cooking classes.

Live bands will perform near the outdoor food court, where tables and chairs will be in abundance, so just pick your spot and enjoy the Show at your own pace.

Where can we find out more? vJust go to www.coffsharbourshowsociety. com.au or phone the secretary on 0428 523 559.

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MAY 2014

WITH TERRI

Movie Gift Cards Birch, Carroll & Coyle have a great gift that every mum of every age will LOVE! MOVIE GIFT CARDS are on sale at the cinema box office every day and evening and are a great way to jazz up the old standard bunch of flowers or box of chocolates.

Choose any amount from $25 and give her romance, comedy, action ... whatever she likes!

Our lineup is looking great, with these titles that Mum (and you) might like ...

The Other Woman (now showing) is a hilarious comedy, starring Cameron Diaz and Leslie Mann, about three women all involved with the same guy. When they discover each other, they become unlikely friends and plot their revenge.

The Grand Budapest Hotel (May 1st) is a quirky story about a legendary concierge (Ralph Fiennes) and the many stories that take place in the hotel. An impressive lineup including: Bill Murray, Edward Norton, Tilda Swinton, Harvey Keitel, Jude Law and many, many more!

Maleficent (May 29th) one of the most ‘evil’ of all Disney’s villains was this character from Sleeping Beauty. The story has been retold to focus on the mistress of evil, played perfectly by Angelina Jolie.

P.S. Ladies SAVE THE DATE for May 28th, for Chicks at the Flicks!

MOVIES! IE RD MOV CA GIFT

Buy now at the box office or online at eventcinemas.com.au

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

September 24 - October 23

Your soul is calling out for your attention.

Listen to your needs. Some personal nurturing is required. Release other people’s stress and problems, as these weigh you down. Set some personal goals and enjoy what is about to befall you.

Kunzite fills our soul with joy, allowing us to override stress.

Time for change is at hand, perhaps a change in career or a new position at work.

You have exhausted the cycle you have been in and your itchy feet are a result of still sitting idle and perhaps waiting for change to come to you. Make a choice and take action.

Garnet is wonderful for prosperity in thought as well as outcome.

Remember strength and wisdom are such powerful virtues; they will take you on the most amazing journey through life. You were blessed with these qualities and need to remember the difference between your problems and everyone else’s. Lately taking on too much has exhausted your zest.

Moldavite will transform your energy and gives flight to new opportunities.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

You have a wonderful opportunity to recognise your self worth. You are embarking on a journey of self-discovery.

You can expect either bright outcomes if you like yourself or negative outcomes if you don’t.

Rose Quartz is a wonderful crystal for selfesteem and unconditional love.

ARIES.

LEO.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

You have the natural ability to manifest whatever you want. You also have the challenge of not believing in yourself adequately. Set some new goals and give yourself permission to achieve them and receive their rewards.

Clear quartz amplifies strengths; carry it or wear it.

Now is a good time to consider what you deserve. The more you think you are worth, the better your outcome will be.

Try to recognise any feelings of low esteem and turn them around using positive affirmations.

Selenite is very powerful for self esteem issues.

October 24 - November 22

Goal setting at this time will benefit you mostly. New beginnings are at hand, so make the most of this creating time. You can have what you want, but you need to know this. Give yourself permission to receive your wish and enjoy it when it gets here.

Aventurine will help you to grow very quickly.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

You are a natural leader. You will achieve so much more when you remain focused.

Avoid distractions at all costs over the next few months and be elated by your changes.

Turquoise is great for self-improvement.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

December 22 - January 20

Your inner strength has been challenged lately. Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends.

By walking fearlessly into your future, you will discover even more personal strength.

Azeztulite helps us to connect with alternate realities. Carry it on your being.

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A gift is about to be bestowed upon you.

This was your creation through a wish made several months ago. Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months.

Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner child’s joy of life. Carry it for a couple of weeks.

The world is your oyster. You will soon be finishing off old business ties and making ways for new opportunities, so be prepared. Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak your truth from your heart.

Zincite helps creation of new ideas.

You can expect an apology or confession from one very close to you. Justice is being served and anything unresolved, will be forgiven. Spend some quiet time thinking about what you need and how you can muster it within yourself so you are completely independent and not needy of another.

Lapis Lazuli helps us understand our needs.

Gardiner Avenue Gardiner Avenue Children’s Centre provides quality care and education for children aged 2 - 5 years. Our opening hours are 8am – 6pm and we are open for 50 weeks per year.

We have a unique environment supporting a group of 18 children.

Families that enrol with us often comment on our ‘home-like’ atmosphere, as our indoor setting has quite a homely, relaxed feel about it, making the transition from home to child care a smooth transition.

Our educators are experienced in early childhood education and understand that children learn best when they are engaged and interested in what they do. We are strong believers in that knowing children as individuals is a key factor in promoting quality learning.

Using children’s interests as the basis for our curriculum decision making helps to ensure that learning is not only interesting, but also meaningful and relevant to children.

Our passionate educators develop individual

programs tailored specifically to each child while using their experience to inspire curiosity, and combine individual and group activities to ignite your child’s learning potential. Our team of staff play a significant role in offering children direct experiences with nature and being positive role models. They not only wonder, but also respect and care for our natural environment. This fundamental learning with educators is essential as children begin to understand sustainability, the systems that support life and why caring for the land, plants and animals and ourselves matters.

We know that educational leadership significantly impacts on learning programs and outcomes for children. Our dedicated team of educators come with a wealth of knowledge and are passionate about creating meaningful relationships with our families and children within our centre.

Come in for a visit and we can show you what we have to offer!

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Each year the Coffs Coast Careers Expo connects those

contemplating their careers, with local providers of career paths and information.

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Direc Directions Plus, a division of Youth Directions, also offers a range of career coaching options for those at any stage in their career or education, th who may wish to take up this service outside of the expo.

For more information, phone Directions e Plus on o 6653 2900.

ow in its eighth year, the Coffs Coast Careers Expo is not only for students and their parents, but is also open to general job seekers and potential career changers as well.

The expo presents a real chance to get hands on in discovering future options and career paths.

There will be more than 60 exhibitors at the expo, including universities, TAFE colleges and registered training organisations, local employers, industry groups and related service providers. A special feature this year will be the advent of specialised group-workshops in the areas of Health Careers, Try a Trade and Professional Services.

The expo is also a platform for local businesses and industry to showcase their operations, grow their community profile and address skill shortages by offering training, employment, traineeships and apprenticeships, to school leavers and job seekers.

Liz Wilkins, Executive Officer for Youth Directions, the local organisation responsible for presenting the expo, knows first hand how vital getting the right advice for future career directions can be.

"For 16 years Youth Directions has been working to support young people engage with education, to learn about career development and navigate the transition to employment or further education," Ms Wilkins said.

"Now our organisation wants to expand the way we share this vital knowledge and experience, by also helping general job seekers and potential career changers as well.

"By informing people of their career options, the skills that are being sought in the workforce and how to obtain them, and where jobs are likely to be in the future, we can prepare the next generation and help others in regenerating their careers and ensuing that they are in tune with current directions in the workforce."

The Coffs Coast Careers Expo will take place at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club on May 15 from 9am to 3pm. Entry is free.

More info call 6653 2900 or visit www.youthdirections.com.au

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The Try a Trade component of the Coffs Coast Careers Expo will be a popular feature of this year’s event. Supported

by North Coast TAFE, Try a Trade will see hands on workshops with

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Stuart McCormack is a 3rd year automotive apprentice studying

experienced professionals across various industries.

rades featured this year will include: automotive, construction, plumbing, hairdressing and hospitality. It’s a chance to get in there and actually have a go at a trade you may be interested in or to see how the professionals do it. Help tile a floor and pull apart a car engine, or have your hair and make-up done by someone already working in the industry. With the Try a Trade section of the expo – it’s all about the hands on experience.

There will also be various exhibitor stands, from local businesses who employ tradespeople and information booths to help direct you in how to get involved in apprenticeships and traineeships.

Local man Stuart McCormack is now in his 3rd year of an automotive apprenticeship after trying his hand at a few other jobs over the years, including being a chef. However, Stuart knew that the automotive industry is where he wanted

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through North Coast TAFE on the Coffs Harbour campus.

to end up, so he started knocking on doors, and didn’t give up until one opened.

Now employed as an apprentice with local business Dealer Direct and studying at the North Coast TAFE campus in Coffs Harbour, Stuart knows he made the right choice.

“I just knew I wanted to do an auto apprenticeship,” said Stuart of his work.

“I was told at first I was too old to be an apprentice, but I went and proved everyone wrong.

I just kept researching and trying, and eventually I got there.

“I really like the study side of it. I’ve found I have a real aptitude for the job, so I really enjoy learning more about it.”

Visit the Try a Trade workshops at the Coffs Coast Careers Expo on May 15 at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club from 9am to 3pm. Entry is free.

More info call 6653 2900 or visit www.youthdirections.com.au

RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village and

RFBI Coffs Harbour Ltd Masonic Village RFBI Bellorana Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution

“Proud Supporters of the Youth Directions’ Careers Expo” Everyone has the right to quality care and support services. That’s why we have tailored our services to care and support you. Please contact us for further information.

“It has been a great opportunity for me to enroll in a traineeship whilst still in my senior years at school. I enjoy helping the residents and working with all the staff...!”

Samantha Thacker, RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village

“I love my traineeship because I get to work with a variety of clients and I love to help people… I’m a hands on learner so learning whilst studying suits me. Looking forward to Ànishing school with a certiÀcate…”

Janine Kambere, RFBI Bellorana

(02) 6650 2200 - coffsharbour@rfbi.com.au (02) 6655 2777 - bellorana@rfbi.com.au - www.rfbi.com.au (02) 6650- www.rfbi.com.au 2200 - coffsharbour@rfbi.com.au - www.rfbi.com.au 70 coffs coast focus.

Masonic Villages: It’s how to live...

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Coffs Coast Careers “I was told at first I was too old to be an apprentice, but I

went and proved everyone wrong. I just kept researching and trying, and eventually I got there.”

This year the Coffs Coast Careers Expo will play host to a series of workshops across a wide selection of career fields. This extended series of workshops follows on from the resounding success of the Health Careers industry workshops at previous events.

The focused and specialised workshops will run this year in the areas of Health Careers, Try a Trade and Professional Services.

Many of the workshop sessions will see a current professional from the industry team with a student or recent graduate, for group discussions around the occupation sector, the skills required and learning pathways to get there. There will also be a Q & A, hands-on demonstrations and lots of opportunities to get in there and have a go.

Automotive and construction students

getting hands on at the North Coast TAFE Coffs Harbour campus.

Coffs Coast Careers HEALTH CAREERS • Medicine • Nursing • Physiotherapy • Psychology • Dentistry • Pharmacy • Medical Radiation Science TRY A TRADE • Automotive • Construction • Plumbing • Hairdressing • Hospitality

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • Accountancy • Law • Architecture • Engineering • Quantity Surveying • Veterinary Science

More info call 6653 2900 or visit www.youthdirections.com.au

CreaƟng OpportuniƟes.

Inspiring Futures.

Recruitment (noͲfee & commercial).

VocaƟonal Training. Youth Services.

Community Investment.

1800 667 832 www.nortecltd.com.au Nambucca, Bellingen, Dorrigo, Coīs, Woolgoolga NORTEC are a notͲforͲproĮt community organisaƟon. $30,000 in Community Grants!

NORTEC is making available 3 x $10,000 Community Grants for notͲforͲproĮt projects that beneĮt our community. For more info go to www.nortecltd.com.au

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For some, further education happens stra straight after school, but for others it ccan be a decision made after years wit within an industry or can even mean a complete co career change.

Jen Jennifer Holman, senior accountant at MJ M Accountants, started studying at university u in her thirties and has gon gone on to know it was the best dec decision she ever made.

Aft After a career which involved pla playing piano for dance students, join joining the Australian Navy and then adm administration management, Jennifer dec decided to take a chance and threw all her eggs in one basket, in order to go to university for the first time.

Jennifer studied a Bachelor of Business (accounting) because she knew it was the way to ensure she could continue to grow and advance in her chosen field. As a mature age student, Jennifer felt this really helped her in terms of determination and drive.

"I bit the bullet and sold my house and went to university as a single mum with two small children. I took a big chance, and it worked out so well," says Jennifer.

"I knew that with an education

services Choosing to study can be a major decision to make at any point in life, so seeking advice and support is paramount to finding the right fit.

my income would not be stuck at a particular level, and it’s the best decision I ever made.

"It has opened up so many doors for me for the future, money and travel and most importantly, feeling good about myself ... feeling like I have achieved something, like I’ve actually fulfilled my potential."

At the Coffs Coast Careers Expo, there will be the opportunity to talk to representatives from universities, TAFE and other learning institutions in the region, as well as specialised workshops with professionals from across a number of career fields.

Career Options If you are a high school student, your school Careers Adviser is a fabulous resource to assist you to get the most out of your time at the Expo.

“Your Careers Adviser can help you to work out what career areas you might be most interested in or best suited to, which will help you to pinpoint the exhibitors and workshops you would benefit from at the Expo”, says Clarence Coffs Careers Advisers Association Chair Kim Harland.

More info call 6653 2900 or visit www.youthdirections.com.au

A great choice...

• • • • •

Adult Learning Environment dedicated to Years 11 & 12 Proven Academic Success Flexible Study Options across a wide range of subjects State of the Art Facilities Sporting and Extra-curricular Opportunities

Your Pathway to Success!

Ph: 02 6659 3010 www.seniorcollege.com.au facebook.com/coffsharboursc A Unique Partnership with Southern Cross University & North Coast Institute of TAFE 72 coffs coast focus.

THE COFFS HARBOUR AGRICULTURAL SHOW 100 years | 16-18 May Celebrating 100 years since the Show's inception. Everyone is invited to participate in a wonderful celebration of community and country.

FRIDAY 4pm - 10pm Carnival rides Sideshows Bull-ride & bucking ponies from 7pm

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SATURDAY 9am - 10pm Heavy horses & carriage driving Guy Fawkes Heritage Horses Miniature & western horses Showjumping, including 6 bar under lights Pony club musical ride Beef cattle & poultry sections Grand parade & official opening from 2.30pm $1,000 cash to lucky competitor with animal Showgirl & Junior Showgirl sashed Supreme Beef of Show sashed Supreme Horse of Show sashed Gulliver the gigantic Guide Dog Stockmen's challenges Vintage cars & machinery Coffs Coast Pipes & Drums Celebrity mower race Fireworks spectacular 8.30pm

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SUNDAY 9am - 6pm Hack & rider classes Showjumping incl. mini grand prix Demolition derby Centenary closing ceremony plus community float parade – $1000 cash prize

EARLY BIRD TICKETS:

ALL DAY EVENTS SATURDAY & SUNDAY The FARMYARD kiddies area PEPPA PIG Tabatinga on stage Paw Print Trail Make your own CRAZY LOOM bracelets ELMO & TABITHA Tables, chairs, umbrellas & hay bales Face Painting Colour-in competition Jumping Castle & Train Rides Take-your-own-photo opportunities with Roving characters plus Baby animal petting & feeding & more MACHINERY Vintage Cars & Trucks Mid North Coast Machinery Restoration Club Local Motor Dealers Tractor & Farm Machinery Dealers

NO LEGS, 4 LEGS Steve McEwan's Reptile World MY PET DINOSAURS including Baby T.Rex Pat-A-Paca Alpaca Purrrfect Cats Compete For Champion Crown Baby Animal Nursery Horses Horses Horses WEEKEND MUSIC TABATINGA on stage YOUTH by YOUTH for YOU on stage LIVE BANDS on truck CommUNITY Talent on stage WEEKEND ACTION Bundy Distillatorium Rally Australia Cars Demolition Derby Boxing Tent Mower Racing Chainsaw Racing Woodchopping Vintage Vehicles & Machinery Carnival Rides & Side Show Alley Pony Rides

www.coffsharbourshowsociety.com.au also available until midday Friday 16. May from Medioptics Toormina, Caba’s Drapery West High St, Show Secretary’s office at Showground.

COMPETITION Peoples' Choice Award In Art Pavilion Banana Cup to Champion Grower Olive Walker Fruit Cake Competition Spectacular Schools Displays Exhibition Hall Cooking, Baking, Art, Crafts, Cake Decorating Demonstrations Produce, Plants & Flowers, Photography Beer, Honey & Many Other sections Who Will Be The Centenary Show Champion Exhibitor?

FOOD LOVERS Cooking Demonstrations & Tastings Childrens Cooking Classes Show Society's All Day BBQ Run by The CH Lioness Club Ladies Auxiliary Canteens- wholesome Food Ouside Food Court Barista Coffee Vendors Plenty Of Tables, Chairs & Shade Side Show Alley’s Dagwood Dogs, Fairy Floss & Much Much More _________________________________________________

HISTORICAL Make Future History with A Photo Booth Centenary Keepsake Coffs Show History Book For Sale Special Show Centenary District Display Red Cross Centenary Display Old Fashioned Games By Girl Guides Working Blacksmith Saturday Only Period Costume Carriage Drivers

For more information contact Enquiries: coffsshow@aim.com or 0428 523 559 Show information: www.coffsharbourshowsociety.com.au Pavilion entries: pavilionchshow@live.com or post to PO Box 219 COFFS HBR 2450

E d u c a t i o n

+

T r a i n i n g

Stu Robinson, Key Employment talks to us about an inspiring group of young people who have recently graduated from the Inaugural Key Employment ‘KAPOW’ (Kids and The Power of Work) program. FOCUS was there to get involved in the action.

long with achieving a Certificate currently exists in the education system for students II in Business, the students gained with psychiatric or learning disabilities who are lifelong friendships, established disengaged and extremely disadvantaged. It was important support networks and developed for kids who hate school and who don’t increased self-esteem and respect attend. For kids who are familiar with juvenile justice, for themselves over the nine month DOCS, PHAMS, Headspace and the inside of a prinlong program. A real sense of belonging and comcipal’s office. It was created to assist these students munity was felt by all who attended the graduation transition from school to work. The overall aim of the ceremony and the pride displayed by Key Employprogram is to show these kids what employment can ment staff, family and community members in these mean for them and their family. That the power of students was very moving. But nothing was work means NEVER having to step inside a as moving as watching these students Centrelink office. display pride in themselves, for many KAPOW will now be rolled out of them the first time. to all five Key Employment sites. l “There has been a real need The incredible 12 students The overal e th for a program such as this for who pioneered the program aim of ow sh to is some time. When I was first have left a lasting legacy, m progra t ha w ds ki e approached by Key Employcreating opportunities for thes n employment ca ment with the concept, I was other disengaged youth and mean for them skeptical to say the least. The looking for an opportunity their family.” skepticism was unwarranted, and support. and the program is exactly what “KAPOW is all about we have been searching for,” power. It gives kids a chance said Alison Turner, Principal, Coffs to prove themselves. We aim to Harbour Learning Centre. “Too many of deliver it to 100 kids in the next year these kids slipped through the cracks in school and to go on from there. for various reasons, and 'KAPOW' can better "We are addressing serious community cater for their learning needs with more engagconcerns around unemployment and the mismatch ing and relevant content utilising delivery techniques between some kids and the education system. KAthat the students can respond and relate to. I can’t POW is the program that will provide opportunities recommend the program enough, and the staff are to those who have been denied opportunity – the fabulous,” Alison added program that will guide those who may have lost KAPOW is a joint project between Key Employtheir way and will unearth talent that may otherwise ment and Training @ Key Employment. It was have been locked away,” said Chris Worboys, CEO of developed in response to the massive gap that Key Employment.

“

74 coffs coast focus.

Are you 16 to 18?

Do you hate school?

is for

YOU! ďŹ nd us on facebook

for more info contact Simon at

coffs coast focus 75

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Who is Quadrant Australia?

Quadrant Australia have been tempting travellers with special interest tours for more than 30 years across 5 continents. As a travel specialist, the team can assist you with all of your travel needs, including flights, packages, cruises and coach touring. FOCUS readers are once again being offered the unique opportunity to join Quadrant Australia’s tailored Agricultural Tour of Ireland and UK. Departing in August, enjoy a leisurely tour to the United Kingdom and Ireland, visiting farming enterprises and taking in the breathtaking scenery of the UK. Travellers tour for 28 days in beautiful Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England visiting major historic and cultural sites. Enjoy the fast ferry across to Scotland before exploring the sights of Edinburgh. The tour highlights include the elegant cities of Bath and Cambridge, the spectacular Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Mohr and Stonehenge, before travellers conclude their journey in the cosmopolitan city of London.

One of the greatest benefits of escorted travel is the ability to experience a destination without worrying about the travel details such as transfers, hotels, meals and much more. So if you’re looking for first-class touring with the personal touch, then Quadrant Australia’s tours have the right mix for you.

Coach touring takes all the worry out of travelling. It’s an opportunity to travel in comfort and style at an all-inclusive price, including airfares from Australia, accommodation, transport, entrance fees and the majority of the meals. Travellers enjoy the freedom to make their own choices with the support of qualified and knowledgeable tour leaders.

Quadrant Australia also operate tours to Canada, USA, Europe, South America and Africa. If you’d like to find out more, visit their website www.quadrantaustralia.com or drop in

Kerry Moss

to see the team in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour.

CALLING ALL YE SCOTS

I

nterested in a beautiful historical city filled with ghostly tales, urban legends and stories to make your hair stand on end… Then join me as I relive my trip to Edinburgh, Scotland: the home of history and intrigue.

I arrive on a crisp, cool night, and the city is alive with entertainment. There’s a real buzz about Edinburgh that makes you want to return time after time. Maybe it’s the cobblestone streets that weave a magical path between modern city buildings and world class shopping but whatever it is, Edinburgh has something special.

It’s rare that you’ll go more than a city block without hearing the sounds of a distant bagpiper echoing through the streets. The pride of the Scottish people is everywhere, whether it’s locals wearing their family tartan or a friendly local proudly giving you directions to the best pub in the region, owned by their Uncle Angus. During the day the tourists flock to the spectacular Edinburgh Castle, that’s perched high on the hill overlooking the city. If you get thirsty on the climb, there are no shortage of bars serving local Scotch Whiskey directly from the Whiskey Trail in the Scottish Highlands.

At night, Edinburgh comes alive with stories of grave robbers and haunted underground vaults. I remind myself not to get carried away here; it could just be the whiskey talking, but the legends of the underground

76 coffs coast focus.

vaults tell tales of torture, terror and history.

Our guide tells us that the underground vaults twist and turn under the city and whilst nobody can agree what they were supposed to be used for, it is clear that they were frequented by people less fortunate than most. We spent hours in the maze of tunnels listening to tales of people who had met their fate but upon rising from the underground, we were met with the lively city that carries on regardless of these urban myths.

Up early the next day, I was able to easily walk between some of the city’s finest sights; Edinburgh is surprisingly compact. As I passed Greyfriars Graveyard, tucked between modern hotels and quaint little pubs, it seemed far less imposing then the night before when I learnt of the ‘safety coffins’, where back in the 1500s people were so afraid of being buried alive, that the musthave item of the time for the wealthy and paranoid was a coffin equipped with a bell allowing those inside to signal to the outside world should they awake 6-feet under. And thus coined the phrase, “saved by the bell”!

Fortunately, we’ve come a long way since then.

Saying farewell to Edinburgh is not easy.

You never feel like you’re done. Fortunately, the myths get wilder and the sights more enticing, which ensures you never visit Edinburgh just once in your life.

advertorial.

ADVERTORIAL

Julie Larkey

GLOBETROTTING SPECIALISTS Recently Harvey World Travel, Coffs Harbour, had the opportunity along with other franchise travel groups to form a new company called ‘helloworld’. We have elected to become a member of this group, trading under our new name of CFS Travel. Julie Larkey is the business owner. hen did you first We have been to where you are trying to get become involved in to, or we have listened to the feedback of other the travel industry? customers. We can provide you with plenty of Many years ago: ideas on where to go and many useful tips that 1985! will make your trip extra special.

What makes your Contrary to popular belief, a travel agent travel agency different? won't always cost more. In fact, it's possible you I operate a small office, and we pride will pay less than booking a holiday yourself, ourselves in adapting holidays to our clients’ because agents might be aware of promotional needs. offers and occasionally have access to exclusive Sometimes it’s the little things that deals. We are happy to look over any offers that make a difference to your holiday. All my a client may have seen in the paper or online, staff is well travelled, and we speak from for example. personal experience. Restaurant Sometimes our pricing and inclusions recommendations in New York, will be the same or better. Even if private walking tours of we don't save you money, both We have been Central Park, cooking your booking and holiday to where you classes in Italy, to name experience may be better to, or are trying to get just a few. based on our experience, to d we have listene r he ot of The business knowledge and alternative ck the feed ba n ca e W s. er recently had a suggestions. om cust plenty provide you with to go name change – It's easy to jump online re of ideas on whe why and how does and snag a cheap flight, at tips th and many useful extra this benefit your but what are the risks ip tr will make your customers? you take when purchasing sp ec ial.”

Recently Harvey World online, and how have you Travel had the opportunity seen the industry change? along with other franchise travel Internet is a complementary groups to form a new company called channel that we work alongside of. It’s a 'helloworld’. We have elected to become way for our customers to research their travel a member of this group, trading under options. Sometimes customers will explore a our new name of CFS Travel. destination but not necessarily have the insight We really like the combination of our small we can offer in terms of hidden experiences and personalised office in conjunction with our and insider knowledge. To assist in wading new 'helloworld’ connections. It’s a new and through the myriad of packages and promotions exciting time for both our office and clients, as available online, we like to work with customers we will have competitive and exclusive deals on to make sure the travel experience is unique offer as part of our new affiliation. to them to reduce the risks. For example, so It's no secret that travel agents know more many packages or flights have hidden costs or than the average traveller, but what are penalties, and it’s very easy to choose the wrong the true benefits of engaging with a travel product or service. agent?

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, simply

“

call us and we will rebook your onward flights.

This sure beats calling an airline or queuing at the check-in desk to sort it out yourself! We also provide consumer protection, as we have membership in the Travel Compensation Fund.

Basically without a travel agent, you're on your own!

Tell our readers about your own personal travel experience, one that has inspired you the most ...

Definitely my first visit to Bhutan. This amazing country captivates me. The climb to ‘Takhtsng’ Tiger Nest Monastery is unforgettable. This small country is shadowed by snow-capped Himalayan peaks; the land of the Thunder Dragon elicits visions of a Shangrila perched on the top of the world.

Also, the flight into Bagan in Myanmar.

Hundreds of temples are scattered over 16 square miles alongside the Ayeyarwaddy River, built in the 11th Century. The Bagan temples are known as ‘gu’ and were inspired by the Buddhist rock caves. I read somewhere that Bagan is one of the pilots of the world’s favourite fly ins.

There is only one way to travel throughout Myanmar, and that’s by river – Pandaw small ship cruising. This was one of my absolute favourites.

What type of traveller would benefit from booking a tour?

First time travellers, single travellers, couples and families. Basically, anyone looking for a shared experience and who would benefit from local knowledge.

What types of tours do you personally lead?

I try to choose amazing countries which are difficult to reach. My first group was to Russia in 2009, Cruising with Viking on the Volga River.

I think St Petersburg is a once in a lifetime city; it possesses the most amazing art collections.

Architecturally speaking, it is perfect. Russia is a country of colours: vibrant reds, aqua blues and emerald greens.

Russia’s must dos are Church of the Saviour on Spilt Blood, St Isaac’s Cathedral, Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Palace, Pushkin and Catherine’s Palace and of course, RED SQUARE in Moscow.

I have also had the privilege of escorting three groups of amazing local women to Bhutan last year. Driving over the Dochula Pass in Bhutan with Tibet on the horizon is mind blowing.

In March last year, two of us got the opportunity to see Bhutan’s Queen Mother and her daughter at the Paro Festival, Queen Mother Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck and Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuk, making a difference to local children by donating dental supplies to Dechenphodra Monastery. This was kindly given to me by Matthew at Backhouse Professional Dental.

What group departures do you have coming up?

Solo group holiday, 11 March 2015, 16 day Remarkable New Zealand from $5,580 – includes single supplement plus return international flights from Sydney. Another great upcoming tour is 'Colours of Rajasthan', an 11 day tour departing 18 Feb 2015 from $3,630, land only. Highlights include visits to Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Udaipur.

Where is your next visit?

Tibet, the former home of the Dalai Lama and rooftop of the world! Check out Julie’s Bhutan story on vimeo. vimeo.com/m/70237824 Julie Larkey, CFS Travel Globetrotting Specialists, Shop 27a Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450.

Ph: (02) 6652 6555 Fax: (02) 6652 1893 Email: julie@cfstravel.com.au Thanks Julie.

coffs coast focus 77

focusbusiness. with the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce

with Martin Wells Sawtell Chamber of Commerce

IT’S SOaRING IN SAWTELL or those who made their way down to any of the successful monthly Sawtell Summer Sessions over the October to March period, you would have enjoyed a truly wonderful sense of community as First Avenue came alive on dusk, with various children’s activities, entertainment, and historical aspects. With everything from buskers to blowup castles, hot rods to helium balloons, fire engines to face painting, petting zoos to performers, it offered all ages something special.

F

There have been a number of changes to business location and ownership recently within the Sawtell business precinct. The Chamber would like to take the opportunity to welcome the following new businesses: • Miss Minnie’s Boutique, now open at 34 First Avenue. New owner Maria Metcalfe is somewhat of a Sawtell icon, having been with Coco 39 for many years. Now ‘Minnie’ has taken the challenging (and rewarding) step of opening her own boutique fashion store, and we wish her all the best.

• Mother’s Milk opened its doors and had a great feature article in FOCUS to accompany.

Courtney and Laura Tune have put their heart and soul into creating a unique and classy ‘Local Produce and Tap House’ occupying the historic ‘Hamey’ building (recently purchased and by two proud Sawtellians). Mother’s Milk prides itself on providing a beautiful mix of local produce, amazing deli product, locally produced boutique beers, tasting plates, lunches, and locally produced coffee.

• 2452 Pizza and Chickens opened next to the Sawtell Hotel in First Avenue and kindly provided free pizza during one of the hugely 78 coffs coast focus.

successful Sawtell Summer Sessions. Owner Greg Costello was also one of numerous businesses that have generously shown their financial support for the ongoing success of Chamber activities designed to focus attention on our little piece of coastal paradise.

• Wholly Organic will open soon selling natural organic skincare and cosmetics, all made locally.

They will also stock clothing made from soy, bamboo, cotton and Merino wool. We wish owners Ricky and Michelle Lee all the best.

Other changes in First Avenue include the relocation of Bella Cosa Antiques across the road to a more spacious and modern showroom at 26-30 First Avenue. We wish President Clive and Kathryn Greenway all the best with their expansion.

Spoilt clothing store has moved in with Beaches.

Coco 39 and Sawtell Pizzas sadly closed their doors after long associations with Sawtell.

Watch this space for an exciting venture spreading their wings (from their successful Coffs Harbour restaurant) to take up residence in the old Sawtell Pizza premises.

Jane-Marie Cook (everyone’s favourite Australia Post Licensee) achieved her target of $5,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation’s ‘World’s Greatest Shave’, when she took the brave step and had the locks removed.

The Chamber is excited as we prepare for what looks like being another hugely successful Sawtell Chilli Festival on July 5. More exciting news on this as we get closer to time.

Martin Wells, Vice President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce.

advertorial.

Sha ne & David G ou rl ey

momentum financial planning

When it comes to looking after your future, the right advice means everything. It makes sense that you choose a local, family owned and operated business when choosing an adviser. Shane and David Gourley are local lads and proud owners of Momentum Financial Planning …

s brothers, you are well known locals. Where was your family originally from?

Sydney originally. Dad retired from the Navy, and our parents decided Coffs Harbour was the perfect place to bring up 3 young boys. We all went to Korora Public School and Jetty High, so yeah, we are Coffs locals through and through.

You both moved to the Gold Coast after high school, before packing your bags and travelling the world for a number of years. Why did you both decide to come back to Coffs Harbour and join the family business?

We both realised how great we have it here in Coffs; the lifestyle and climate are as good as anywhere else in the world. We are both very active, love the beach and have a heap of close mates who either stayed in Coffs or have also moved back, so it was an easy decision to come home. Dad established the business in the late ‘80s and by the time we got home, he had grown it to a point where he needed help. He always wanted his boys to be a part of it and make it a true family business. Thankfully, we were both smart enough to realise what a great business Dad had created and jumped at the opportunity to be a part of it.

David and Shane, you two are the owners of the business. Who else makes up the Momentum team?

Richie is the newest member of the Momentum team. Richie, his wife, Samantha, and their two children recently moved up from Sydney looking for a change in lifestyle and felt Coffs was the perfect place to bring up the kids. Richie and his family are very similar in age to our families and share the same values, so he was a perfect fit for us. Being a family business and with small children of our own, we have a very strong focus on family.

This family culture also comes through with our customers and means we have built many long term professional and personal relationships with our clients.

Kerry has been with us for many years and basically keeps our office running smoothly – she does a good job of keeping us boys in line. Kerry controls all administration and front office matters, and acts as a PA to all 3 advisers. She is currently leading the office footy tipping competition, which does not sit well with the lads.

What is Momentum Financial Planning, and what services do you offer?

We are a family business that has been providing financial advice to Coffs locals for close to 30 years. We offer our clients advice in all areas of financial planning, including superannuation, investments, budgeting and

debt reduction, personal insurance, estate a plan to get there. Setting goals, establishing planning and retirement strategies. We look time frames, whether it is short, medium or after young families, small business owners, long term, and planning strategies on how people getting ready for retirement and you will get there is the most important those who are already retired. step in setting up your future.

Do you need to be rich or On a scale of 1 – 10, where have a large business would you rate actually to benefit from your sitting down and exe w ly Thankful t ar advice? ecuting a budget? sm th bo were That’s a good quese It would have to be is al re to enough ness si tion, and the answer right up there, 8 or 9! bu t ea gr a t wha d te ea is no. We think it is Most people do not cr d ha ad D e important for people have any real underand jumped at th a be to understand that standing of what their opportunity to ” it. of even though they may regular weekly/monthly part not think of themselves spending is. A realistic as needing financial advice, budget can highlight where we find most people can you are wasting money, where benefit from our services. This may savings can be made, and if there is be something as simple as chasing down any surplus available for things such as and consolidating a number of super acinvestment. counts, or establishing personal insurance Once you have an understanding of your to provide financial protection for your family budget, and are prepared to stick to it, strateshould you be unable to work for an extendgies can then be put in place to effectively ed period of time, or worse. Our clients are build your wealth. ‘normal’ people who simply need some guidWhere can we find you? ance and advice to ensure they have financial Please come into our office anytime; our security either now or in retirement. bright orange Momentum sign is hard to miss What is the most important thing when on the corner of Monnee and Elbow Street. mapping one’s financial future?

You could also jump on our web page Planning! Like most things, you generally www.momentumfp.com.au will not get to an end goal if you do not have or simply give us a call on 6651 6788.

“

coffs coast focus 79

The Digital Revolution Autospeed Here at Autospeed we are auto enthusiasts, and we are your one stop shop catering to all general rego related rust and repairs.

We look after rust proofing, from minor to major rust repairs, through to a full rotisserie build on your prize possession.

Beat the rust to the chase and come in and see the team at Autospeed to have an obligation free estimate done on your pride and joy. We will advise you on the best way to repair your car, making it safe, with your safety being our top priority.

We offer senior and car club member discounts.

Progress payments plans available for large jobs, and pickup and delivery of your vehicle is not an issue.

All our work is carried out by skilled licensed tradesmen that you can trust, and all our work is guaranteed.

From your pedal car to your show car, cruise on in and check us out at Autospeed Custom Restoration.

We are located at unit 4 & 5/9 Wingara Drive, Coffs Harbour. We have been in operation for six months – an exciting new venture for Coffs Harbour.

80 coffs coast focus.

Did you know?

The Australian Government is currently implementing some massive changes to how we send and receive information.

Analogue television has now been switched off, and sections of the digital television network are being re-allocated for use by other services, in particular 4G (LTE) mobile broadband.

To achieve this, some existing digital TV channels are moved or “re-stacked” to a different frequency on the digital spectrum to make room for the new 4G services.

What this means for you...

Your existing TV antenna may not provide you with the best possible digital TV reception and experts anticipate many television installations may experience interference to their digital TV reception when the new 4G service is introduced.

How I can help...

Using the latest digital test equipment and a strong knowledge of digital transmission in the local area, I can diagnose and repair TV reception issues to ensure you get the most out of the new digital services available.

Using products that are specifically designed to work with digital TV and filter any 4G interference, you will be able to sit back and enjoy your favourite TV shows AND high speed mobile internet without a hitch.

Cornerstone Conveyancing Services Cornerstone Conveyancing Services is a boutique office built upon the founding principles of: experience, trust and integrity.

Business 101 – Lessons from One Year in Business This month our client Jasmine Bailey and her partner, Darcy, celebrate one year since they purchased the unique Edwards Modern Vintage clothing shop.

Jasmine spoke to Mel about what she’s learned over a busy 12 months.

Tell me about your decision to buy Vintage and Modern.

My shop was established six years ago and when my sister-in-law bought it 3 years ago, I started working for her casually. I’ve always loved the store, so when my sister-in-law decided to sell, we looked at the figures and thought … “Why not buy it?”

Has it been everything you expected?

I didn’t realise how much hard work it would be. She had made it look really easy.But I’ve worked really hard all my life for other people; so, to now be working hard for myself is a nice reward.

At the helm of Cornerstone Conveyancing Services is Therese Ryan, who established the business in April this year, realising a vision to launch her own conveyancing practice and put her own footprint on the profession.

Therese is a Licensed Conveyancer with over 25 years’ experience in property law and conveyancing; she completed her Associate Degree in Law in 2002 and has been licensed to practice since 2009. Her career developed while working for both major and smaller law firms throughout Sydney and regional NSW, including Coffs Harbour, where she has worked and raised her family for the past 10 years. Therese has earned the title of Certified Practising Conveyancer, which is an endorsement from her industry association, the Australian Institute of Conveyancers, acknowledging her extensive experience.

Cornerstone Conveyancing Services specialises in all aspects of the profession: from buying and selling residential property along with strata, community title, rural and commercial/industrial property across New South Wales.

Have you made any first year mistakes?

We took on too much at the start. We wanted to put our own stamp on the shop.

And we had such high expectations. We really thought that we’d just come in and it would be amazing. We overstocked the shop.

Therese recognises that no two conveyancing transactions are ever the same, and you are dealing with one of the biggest financial investments of your life. With this in mind, Cornerstone Conveyancing Services aims to deliver an exceptional personal customer service experience in a timely and professional manner.

Visit the website at: www.cornerstoneconveyancing.com to learn more about their practice and the many services they have on offer. If you need assistance with conveyancing, contact Therese at their office on (02) 6699 3522, where conveyancing is made simple.

Did that cause cash flow issues?

Absolutely. You order twice as much and you’ve got to sell twice as much. We didn’t.

What have you learned from the experience?

To be less emotional. We’ve put the right computer systems in now, and we run reports daily and weekly on what’s selling.

We can project what sales will be for the next 12 months, which lets us know how much money we can spend on stock.

So are you able to make all your decisions without emotion?

No, not always. I fell in love with this brand Spell and the Gypsy Collective from Byron, and I really wanted to get in. That was an emotional decision. But it was a business decision as well, because it’s great to jump onto a brand when they are just exploding.

That decision has paid off 10 fold – so sometimes emotion is a good thing.

How important has the success of Spell and the Gypsy Collective been to your business?

It really resurrected my confidence. You question yourself on a daily basis. At the end of the day it’s just you making the decisions.

I went out on a limb and tried something that wasn’t mainstream – and it paid off. It’s amazing how important frame of mind is in running a business.

If someone told you they were about to buy a retail business, or any small business for that matter, what would be your advice?

Go with the figures. Have a plan. Dream big, but be realistic. Seek advice.

Jasmine and Darcy also took their store online this year – but we’ve run out of time. So stay tuned next month to learn about their move from Bricks and Mortar to Bricks and Clicks.

MJ Accountants offers so much more than tax and compliance advice. We work with our clients to sharpen their business strategies and grow and manage their personal wealth.

Looking for business ideas, education and inspiration? Check out the Money with Melanie section of our website www.mjaccountants.com.au/welcome-money-melanie. Looking for an accountant to partner in your business and personal success? Give me a call on 6652 8788!

coffs coast focus 81

focustourism. with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

Interdata Solutions Principal, Hendrik talks about:

High Definition (HD) Video Surveillance

W

hether it’s for home or business, we can provide HD video surveillance solutions that include everything you need to safeguard valuable resources. Our selected camera range provide a 1280 x 720 high-resolution image, to ensure you capture all the details you need.

The high-resolution image accompanied by infrared LED illuminators provide a clear picture at night for dependable 24-hour surveillance. Alert notifications or alarm triggers can be set up in just a few clicks, with snapshots or video clips sent directly to cell phones, email, FTP or Web pages.

Motion Detection Field – ability to select specific regions in the video frame to pinpoint motion detection that can be linked to alerts and recording options.

Instant access from anywhere – easier and more convenient for you to keep an eye on your family, home or office, no matter where you are. You can view your camera’s live video through a web browser or an additional app for your iOS or Android mobile device.

Example – Small/Medium Camera Package includes: 2x HD Wireless Day & Night Pan/Tilt Cameras; 2x HD Outdoor Day & Night Cameras; 1x 1TB Network Video Recorder; 1x Wireless N Access Point; 1x 1500VA Battery Backup (UPS) and Installation and training. Prices start from $2,499 inc. GST Please call us on 1300 130 931 or email us at info@ interdatasolutions.com.au to discuss which package covers your requirements best.

UPDATE

To complain or not to complain? That is the question. was recently looking at research from 2001 that said 90% of unhappy customers never complain*. Fast forward to 2014, and customers are now more likely to complain than ever! And not necessarily to your face ... no, customers in this day and age now have the ability to complain via reviews online on such sites as Trip Advisor, and they’re there for the whole world to see!

I

Usually, the type of customer that makes a complaint in person is someone with high self-confidence. However, now with the ease of online reviews, a customer can make a complaint using the anonymity of their computer screen or mobile device.

So what does all this mean? It means that customer service is more important today than ever!

Obviously, in an ideal world there wouldn’t be anything for the customer to complain about, and the job would have been done right the first time.

But if in the event of a service failure, then you or your staff need to handle the situation effectively. Some tips include: act fast, admit mistake but don’t be defensive, show empathy and understanding, don’t argue and take the steps needed to solve the problem.

Lastly, the most important thing to do is actually learn from the experience – that’s the key.

Manager of Smugglers on the Beach, Michael Hall, analyses Trip Advisor 82 coffs coast focus.

reviews daily. All reviews, the good, Tourism on the Coffs Coast is BIG the bad and the ugly, are printed business, representing approximately out and handed to the relevant $540 million of generated revenue to department for them to learn from. our region. As a community we need If in the rare event of a bad review, to ensure we are all offering superb they then strive to achieve 5 positive customer service to ensure our visitors reviews to compensate for the have an enjoyable experience and bad one… and everyone return again and again…. from management to And hopefully write staff learn from the some fantastic, experience. positive reviews If you’d like to join Tourism about our local Empowering ast, please Co s ff Co businesses - which your staff to be @ ntact us via: info m. co will encourage responsible for st.co tourismcoffscoa site more visitors to eb how they deliver au or visit the w . st oa our region! sc ff customer service urismco

“

www.to

is also important. com.au” Paige Sinclair, CEO of Dolphin Marine Magic, reinforces to her staff that it is the customer that pays the staff wages. If the customer isn’t happy, people won’t return, and ultimately the staff wouldn’t have a job. So the customer needs to be at the forefront of everything they do.

Duncan Elliot from Café TREEO in Sawtell says, “We always go above and beyond to accommodate the needs of the customer; without them we wouldn’t have a business.” Duncan also said that while locals are his main source of trade, it’s important to show tourists the same level of friendliness and service. “We have customers return year after year on their annual holiday pilgrimage.”

If you would like more information on this topic or would like to get in touch with a local consultant to assist you please contact our office - we are here to help. *Data from Lovelock 2001 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 Remember, tourism is everybody’s business!

DFA Financial Planners We recently caught up with Mark Richardson of DFA Financial Planners.

Mark is the recipient of AMP’s New Planner Award for northern NSW and QLD, which recognises excellence in new planners.

W

hat is your role at DFA DFA Financial Planners?

As a Financial Planner I am a personal coach for your money and here to help you achieve your dreams. I work closely with my clients, helping them to formulate their long-term goals and create a plan for them to not only achieve their dreams, but to exceed their expectations.

What was your earlier career, and what attracted you to this type of career?

At the young age of 18, I bought a one-way ticket to London with the last of my money; however, I spent the next two weeks wondering how I was going to afford a ticket home, because sometimes the grass isn’t always greener.

I was put in contact with the owner of a ‘rundown’ private residence in the south of England who was looking for a young, keen manager. By the end of our first meeting, I had assured him that I could turn his ageing ‘home’ into a luxury hotel within 12 months. In return, all he had to do was provide me with food and a roof over my head, as well as fund the project. The project was a success, the hotel was opened on time and under budget and today stands as one of the most

outstaanding properties of its kind. outstanding I was also a private butler to a luxurious property owner and his ‘First Mate’ on-board his luxury yacht. I have spent many nights with cellar masters across the globe and many a night tasting fine wine and cheese in private cellars.

This gave me my first taste for the finer things in life and taught me that even the most adventurous plan is possible. These experiences and many others travelling all over the world taught me many valuable lessons that have led me to where I am today.

You have recently won a massive award!

Congratulations ... tell us about it.

AMP Financial Planning recently awarded me the New Planner Award 2014 for the Northern NSW and Queensland areas.

I feel the award would not have been possible had it not been for the support, mentoring and dedication of the Directors of DFA. It is a privilege to have been recognised for such a highly regarded industry award and to be given the recognition for my dedication and commitment to my clients’ needs and goals over the last two years.

What services do DFA Financial Planners offer

and what types of customers benefit from DFA services?

DFA Financial Planners this year celebrates its 25th birthday and has been helping families across the Coffs Coast since 1989.

offers regular wealth advice and guidance throughout the different stages of life.

At DFA we act as a sounding board for major financial decisions, so that you can make an educated and informed decision with confidence.

We are there to advise on your financial day-to-day issues, as well as the long-term planning for your retirement. We can help to minimise tax liabilities, protect the wealth being created and ensure you are on track for a lifetime of financial freedom.

Your Adviser is there to help you achieve your goals and should take the time to understand what’s important to you, keep you on track and review your plan and situation regularly.

DFA’s Advisers are highly qualified and skilled to help clients build, protect and transfer their wealth. DFA views creating and looking after clients’ wealth as a lifelong commitment and

What’s the most important thing someone should consider if contemplating utilising a financial planner?

You need to be comfortable with your adviser, as you will be working closely with them over many years and discussing various aspects of your financial situation. You need to trust your adviser and ensure that you show the same commitment as they do regarding your financial strategy to ensure you are placed in the best position to achieve the future you deserve.

coffs coast focus 83

focusinterview.

TARGETED BYDESIGN saso.creative

a monthly feature on design, marketing, and communications

Here’s a statistic every small business owner should know by heart: it costs seven times more to acquire a new customer than to keep an existing customer.

Here’s another related statistic: the probability of selling to an existing customer is 60 - 70%; the probability of sellling to a new customer is 5 - 20%.

And one more just to drive the point home: a 2% increase in customer retention has the same dollar-effect as decreasing costs by 10%.

Are the pennies dropping? Keeping your customers returning is a vital part of your marketing toolkit. And a good way to retain customers is by keeping in touch and making them feel valued. And a good way of doing that is through a regular email newsletter campaign.

Your Heading Here!

Here’s why: email is, overwhelmingly, still the most pervasive activity on the internet. Some studies claim that 96% of all internet traffic is email.

Email newsletters exploit an existing bond between you and your customers that is extremely difficult for a competitor to match. It also takes advantage of customers who have already indicated their interest, and are thus far more susceptible to sales suggestions.

Email is seen as a more personal medium than, say, Facebook.

Email newsletters are often kept indefinitely to refer back to, whereas posts on social media such as Facebook are often fleeting and effectively dead within 24 hours.

A newsletter campaign establishes you as an authority in your field.

Too hard? No way. Here’s how: Get a (free) account with Campaign Monitor or MailChimp (or other mail list service). Plug it into your website (you’ve got a website, right?) Tick the box that says something like 'Auto mail new post articles'. And you’re done.

Stuck for content? Listen to your customers. What are they talking about? What are they asking for? What are you advising them? Want to know more? Sign up to our newsletter. :) And I can’t resist one last statistic: a 5% reduction in customer desertion can increase profits by 95%. Get writing.

DON’T LET IP CUSTOMERS SLUR THROUGH YO ST FINGERS. LOS CUSTOMER EQUALS LOST PROFIT.

CALL SASO.CREATIVE TO DISCUSS AN EFFECTIVE CUSTOMER LOYALTY PROGRAM

WEB DESIGN PRINT DESIGN PACKAGING

LOGO DESIGN ◎ BRANDING COPYWRITING

www.sasocreative.com.au

6658 7666 84 coffs coast focus.

Fee & Suzi's Cleaning

W

hat is your business?

Are you both local girls? Our business is a cleaning service named FEE AND SUZI'S CLEANING. We are long time residents of the local area. We are known as trustworthy, reliable, hardworking, with a friendly demeanour. Together we have over 20 years' experience – discretion being our highest priority.

Why did you decide to open the business?

We have both worked in the local area with our same employees for many years, we both like the challenge of cleaning, and with our experience, we thought, "Why not?"

People are often reluctant to hire a cleaner… what are people the most surprised with after utilising your services?

People are most surprised of the detailed clean they get; in particular, how sparkly their bathroom and kitchens are when finished.

How many people do you take to each job, and will there be a different person in my house each time your business comes to clean my house? We are a partnership and

we don't have any other staff, so you will If I only like to use environmentally get us every time. You won't have lots friendly products, can I please of different people roaming around your provide those? house (laughs).

Actually, we only use eco-friendly How much do you charge, and do products, though we are more than I need to provide my own happy to use the customer's cleaning products? products if they require We supply our specific brands of own cleaning cleaning products.

We supply our products; through Do you only do own cleaning experience, we private homes? h products; throug have found what What about ve perience we ha ex to seems to work work places s found what seem r a fe of best. We offer and offices? e W . st be k wor arge by ch or a free quote, We service e, ot qu ee fr or charge by an private homes, an hourly rate .” hourly rate. offices, workplaces Can I provide and builders' cleans. a detailed list of Where can we get in what I'd like done, or do contact with you both? you only wash the floors and 0419 689 287 or bathroom?

0415 966 878.

We not only wash your floors and Final say… clean your bathroom; we like to think Cleaning to us is all about the we do a detailed clean. We vacuum in challenge; we love to look back on our kitchen drawers, skirting boards, cob work when finished and say, "Wow!" webs, vacuuming under and behind We hope you will feel the same. We beds, the things that get overlooked would like to thank SAPPHIRE HOMES, when cleaning yourself. Whatever the for the work and recognition that they customer requires, we are more than have given us. happy to do.

Thanks ladies.

“

focusinterview.

saso. creative targeted Design Sam Chapman and Nanette Backhouse are co-directors at saso.creative, an award winning creative agency now operating in Coffs Harbour. Between them they have 40+ years’ experience in graphic and web design, marketing strategy and planning, copywriting, branding, promotional collateral and publishing. They talk to FOCUS about their first five years in Coffs.

s

aso.creative was a successful agency in Sydney for several years. What brings you to Coffs Harbour?

Sam It had always been our intention to move north from Sydney for lifestyle and family reasons. But, that plan was about 10 years down the track. We were in the process of building the business and had started to entertain thoughts of a design and marketing co-operative. But the thought of a punishing million-dollar mortgage was not one that appealed to us.

Nettie And then we got burgled. Four times.

Within about a year.

Sam And, of course, Sydney was in danger of disappearing up its own backside. We were regularly driving two hours south just to go surfing without the crowds and attitude. Or making excuses for dinner parties because we couldn’t stand the smalltalk about property portfolios and the best sourdough bread. Just not our scene.

How do you find Coffs Harbour?

Sam To be honest, there are still a number of things about Sydney that we miss. The bookshops, the music scene, the restaurants and pubs. But we’re gradually finding those same things here: we just had to look.

Nettie And being in the industry we are in, it is important to keep ourselves abreast of new ideas, new styles, new approaches. I’m from London originally, and there’s always something happening, always something to do or see. That

said, you need the headspace to absorb those experience, both since saso.creative started and influences and make them work for your clients. in our professional careers before saso. creative, Coffs gives us that headspace. gives us the background and knowledge to And how has Coffs been from a business tackle our clients’ needs with a big picture perspective? approach. We frequently get a client through Nettie To be honest, it’s been a challenge. It’s the door who wants ‘just’ a logo, or ‘just’ a a hard market to crack. We still have regular website, but by sitting down and talking clients from Sydney and Melbourne, about their real needs – more but we want to work more with exposure, better response, local businesses, get more more market share – we can involved in the local business suggest ideas that they t We’ve seen wha scene. I think we’re moving may not have thought g good marketin in the right direction. of. Sounds like an upsell, do for and design can Sam Thing is, we are but it’s really just about t wan a business. We passionate about what getting the right result. to local businesses we do. We actually believe That’s our business. .” at benefit from th in what we do. I know Design by analysis. Analysis that sounds clichéd and of their needs, of their self-serving, but we’ve seen competitors, of the market, of what good marketing and design the possibilities.

You said earlier that you can do for a business. We want local moved here for lifestyle and family businesses to benefit from that. reasons. How’s that playing out?

Nettie Better marketing and better design Nettie Great. We love it. We have a little girl, make for a better business. That’s our bottom Tiki, who’s now four who’s loving the surf line. What we produce – a logo, a brochure, a and the outdoors. I’m involved with the Coffs website, a book – are really just a means to an Coast Derby Dolls, and Sam’s getting back end. They’ve got to get results. If a logo isn’t into surfing, which he more or less gave up in some way building your brand and building when we were in Sydney. recognition and referrals, if your website isn’t Sam Being in Coffs has given us space, both producing more contacts or making your physical space and headspace. I’ve rebuilt a business easier, if your marketing and promotion 57 VW Bus, but we just wouldn’t have been aren’t producing more, well, more money, more able to do that previously. We wouldn’t profit, then it’s all kind of pointless. have had time, we wouldn’t have had the Sam I think that’s what stands us apart. Our

“

space. And, frankly, we wouldn’t have had the assistance and encouragement: the bus simply wouldn’t have happened without our friends and neighbours, Frank and Craig.

So what’s the future for saso.creative?

Sam Growth and local involvement are our targets at the moment. We’ve got a couple of big announcements over the next few months, that will be featured in our regular ‘Red Column’ in this magazine. (See opposite.)

Nettie Chief amongst them is a seminar on book publishing for authors and selfpublishers in the next few months at the CHEC campus. Publishing services and design has always been a bit of a niche for us with our sister company, bookdesignbysaso.com. au, being one of the most respected book design companies in the country.

Tell us something people in Coffs may not know about you ...

Nettie While I was working at Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, I had to do a body cast for Heather Graham and she came in not wearing undies. So I sent out for the baggiest, daggiest pair of granny knickers we could find. The look on her face was priceless.

Sam And I was a champion ballroom dancer once upon a time. That was about 20 years and 20 kilos ago.

LET’S TALK! Contact saso.creative on 6678 7666 or www.sasocreative.com.au coffs coast focus 85

COFFS COAST

property guide

“... not your ordinary builder”

86 coffs coast focus.

focusabode.

Mick + Carmel Fielding

espite growing up in Middle Boambee together and attendBoam ing the same schools, it wasn’t until their twenties that Mick Fielding and Carmel Lindsay joined forces to create Three Sixty Building. We sat down with this busy couple to find out just why they are becoming so successful in the custom and architectural building market.

Why aren’t you an ‘ordinary builder’?

We are in a unique bridging position between the larger, project home builders, and the smaller owner-operators. We offer the professionalism of the larger compa-

nies, with the flexibility and intimacy of the smaller. Clients deal with Mick the whole time – they don’t meet with a salesperson, speak to an office lady or discuss with a supervisor. Having Carmel involved full-time in the business, we are also able to look after the paperwork side of things in a timely fashion, without dragging Mick away from the actual project construction tasks.

Exceptional workmanship is one of the keys to Three Sixty Building’s success – how do you ensure it?

Any project is only as good as the quality of the materials and workman-

ship that goes into it, which is why we refuse to compromise on either. Obviously it takes many different tradespeople to build a home, so we only engage the best.

Another way of ensuring the workmanship is impeccable is by being a little bit ‘old-school’ in our building style. Mick is constantly saying to his carpenters: “How is that going to hold up to time – and not three years down the track, but 20?” There is nothing slap-dash about our homes, and near-enough is never good enough. We expect things to be perfect, and built to last.

coffs coast focus 87

focusabode.

Mick + Carmel Fielding

Mick, why do you build?

I think that the building of structures is an enduring fascination – the popularity of shows such as Grand Designs and The Block are current testimony to this. I find architecture fascinating, and I’m simply very fortunate that building is a skill I possess. As one of five builders in my family, from a long-line of tradesmen, I’d say that having Three Sixty Building is what I was bred for – when your entire family is in the industry, it’s kind of hard to imagine doing anything else, and meeting Carmel gave me the support I needed to create my own business. I derive immense satisfaction from organising the flow of trades and supplies – not much pleases me

more than to see one of our sites humming along with trades and deliveries all smoothly co-ordinated. Sometimes, inevitably, it’s not all smooth sailing, but the solving of such issues adds to the satisfaction. I’m fortunate that Carmel is as passionate about building as I am – basically we live and breathe building – it is what we do!

Three Sixty Building’s specialty – what is it?

Pure building. Most of our clients come to us by way of referral from architects and building designers. Our passion is construction, so we have focused on this and let the architects, building and interior designers put pen to paper. This also means that Mick’s time and

energy is focused, rather than being spread between the projects he is designing and the ones under construction. This approach, we believe, results in a superior quality building product, and a smoother building process for the owner. Very often we are the first person people contact when they consider building their home, so we have established close, trustworthy ties with a number of designers to whom we refer those requiring plans.

Your children are very young – Carmel, how do you and Mick manage a family business with three little ones?

With great difficulty sometimes! It was “Three children, three and under” when the youngest was born last year, and Mick liter-

Reece Coffs Harbour proudly support Three Sixty Building CUSTOM MADE TIMBER WINDOWS & TIMBER DOORS AUSTRALIAN OWNED & MADE SINCE 1934 PIVOT DOORS, SLIDING DOORS, BIFOLD DOORS, FRENCH DOORS & HINGED DOORS BIFOLD WINDOWS, AWNING WINDOWS, BAY WINDOWS, LOUVRE WINDOWS, SASHLESS WINDOWS, SLIDING WINDOWS, DOUBLE HUNG WINDOWS & CASEMENT WINDOWS COFFS HARBOUR SHOWROOM 2/22 Keona Cct North Boambee Valley 02 6651 4311 www.duce.com.au 88 coffs coast focus.

Reece Coffs Harbour 177A Orlando Street, 02 6652 4277 Reece Coffs Harbour South 12 Isles Drive, 02 6651 9444 www.reece.com.au

ally helped deliver the baby (not by choice!) bonded with him for a few hours then went back to the office and did some quoting!

Sometimes he’d come home to toddlers creating chaos in the pantry, and me with the baby in my arms as I filled out Council documentation or typed up invoices – I think it is a situation that many small business owners can relate to. The thing I love most about our business, however, is that it enables us to run a home-based office, and work flexible hours – perfect for us with young children and perfect for clients who need us available outside the standard 9 -5.

What is at the core of Three Sixty Building?

focusabode.

Mick + Carmel Fielding

...N EA REN O U G H D IS N EV ER G O O E W .

H G U O EN S TO EX PE CT TH IN G D N A , CT FE BE PE R .”

ST LA TO T BU IL

“

Our fundamental value is to surpass our clients’ expectations by delivering quality custom homes and a pleasurable, stress-free building experience. Our company prides itself on high-quality workmanship and attention to detail. We achieve exceptional workmanship by employing carpenters on wages – this enables us to have complete control over the work they produce. For all other trades we engage reputable local subcontractors with whom we have established fantastic relationships – they are subcontractors we have chosen to work with because they take as much pride in their work as we do. We believe that building a new home with the right builder is an enjoyable, exciting experience.

What advantage, Mick, does Carmel being a 5th generation resident and you a 2nd generation resident of Coffs Harbour, give to Three Sixty Building?

It doesn’t make us better builders per se, but it certainly assists in forging trusting relationships with clients. It also definitely makes it easier for us to select the best trades and most reputable suppliers – a childhood friend is our sparky, another mate’s parents are our steel fabricators, Carmel’s cousin is a building designer, a client drove trucks for her grandpa, another drove trucks for Carmel’s grandpa etc ... the ‘small world’ moments are endless and remind you that Coffs is still very much a small, close-knit community!

coffs coast focus 89

focusabode.

YO U H AV E DONE A B, ST FI R -R AT E JO E TH G CO M PL ET IN G ET BU IL D O N BU D F O D EA H AND A .”

LE U ED SC H

“

A testimonial ti i l ffrom th the owner’s ’ off Th Three Si Sixty t B Building’s ildi ’ most recent project ...

We would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for the excellent work Mick and the guys at Three Sixty Building carried out, building our new house. We have been delighted with the quality of the work and with the reliability of your team. You have done a first-rate job, completing the build on budget and ahead of schedule.

The job ran smoothly and stress free through the entire process of construction. The tradesmen were professional, and Mick was always ensuring that we were satisfied. If you want a house with an extraordinary level of finish, then Three Sixty Building is the builder of choice. Three Sixty Building are great builders who made the entire building process an enjoyable one. They have an absolute commitment to building a high quality residence with

Mick + Carmel Fielding

a careful attention to detail. During visits it was noted how neat and tidy the site was.

I would recommend Mick and his team at Three Sixty Building without hesitation. Thanks Mick, Carmel and the guys at Three Sixty Building for our amazing home.

– Jacquie and Chris Fell – Molly&ME Café.

How can people find out more about Three Sixty Building?

Mick is always available on his mobile – 0408 250 164. You can also look at our website: threesixtybuilding.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram @threesixtybuilding.

Photography by Leah Moore Photography.

BUILDERS OF QUALITY KITCHENS FOR THREE SIXTY BUILDING

90 coffs coast focus.

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Marketing

ell us a little bit about your background and how you came to be in Coffs Harbour.

I came to Coffs Harbour in 2005 to take up a job at Coffs Council as its web content manager.

Three years later I started my own business in professional copywriting and website consulting, specialising in web content and SEO. Before my husband and I moved to Australia, I had lived, studied and worked in five other countries, and I enjoy immersing myself in different cultures.

In Singapore, I was part of a pioneering team of online journalists and content producers at The Straits Times when newspapers were only just starting to move online. I have also been editor of a European business travel magazine and worked in international marketing communications.

Your business, Triple W Communications, is focused on the art of good communication.

What sort of professional services do you provide clients?

I help businesses communicate more effectively online. Around 80% of my work involves writing or rewriting website content so it’s clear, concise, persuasive, and optimised for search engines.

Some businesses aren’t good at writing appealing copy that explains their unique selling propositions to their target market. By writing convincing, optimised content for my clients’ websites, I help them improve their Google rankings and increase their sales and enquiries.

I was one of the first dedicated web content writers in Australia with thorough knowledge of search engine optimisation (SEO). My contentwriter.com.au website ranks very well for the keywords (search terms) I optimised it for. Almost all of my new business comes via my website.

Businesses often get a pretty website designed, but then don’t get any visitors or don’t make any sales because they haven’t put any thought or effort into their text. That’s where I come in. A one-off investment in high-quality content quickly pays off.

My 20 years’ experience in marketing com-

munication, copywriting, journalism, internet College, which has students in over 60 countries. entrepreneurship, website editing and SEO has Unfortunately, SEO got a bad name due to ungiven me a valuable skillset that allows me to scrupulous operators using spammy tactics such transform boring company jargon into powerful, as hidden text, keyword stuffing and paid links. concise content that sells.

It’s good to see Google is cracking down on this, Besides content writing and editing, I also do and many websites that tried to take a short-cut website evaluations and SEO consultations, prohave lost their rankings. vide content and social media marketing advice, I’ve only ever advocated and applied sound, and write articles, feature stories and marketing industry-accepted (‘white-hat’) SEO methods that materials. Travel writing is one of my specialties. adhere to Google’s guidelines, so Google’s algoMicky, when you’re not in Coffs Harbour, we rithm updates don’t affect my clients’ websites. understand there’s a good chance you’re in My focus has always been on useful content and Europe. Tell us about this. tags using logical keywords.

I work for clients around Australia and What are your tips for business owners overseas. They find my website looking to improve the SEO of and email me the details their website? of their project. I don’t I could mention a hundred need to meet them things, but here are three face-to-face, which tips that can make a Using the means I can do my real difference in your right words job from anywhere. rankings. d un gets your site fo My husband and 1. Keywords: For s, ne in search engi I love Europe, so each important page le keeps peop d we’ve decided to on your site, think of an , ed interest to in rs spend more time words and phrases to si vi s turn there while keeping people might type into customers.” our home base in Google to find that parCoffs Harbour. Having ticular information. Then travelled the world, we ensure you use those words recognise that Coffs is one of on that page a few times (but the best places to live. don’t overdo it).

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is 2. Title tags: Use those same keywords in regarded as a highly skilled and intricate the title tag for that page, as Google also uses profession. How did you come to be in this title tags to determine what a page is about. field?

Write unique, descriptive title tags for all your About a decade ago, I realised how important pages and limit them to around 55 characters to SEO was to online success and noticed many solid fit in the search results.

SEO techniques involved writing. I then took sev3. Content marketing: Regularly add fresh, eral advanced SEO courses because I saw a niche valuable content such as blog posts and share it in the market for a professional web copywriter via social media channels. This is a reliable SEO with both marketing and SEO skills. It’s great to strategy to attract visitors and links. see how my optimised content and advice can Incidentally, Google has also identified the make someone’s business more successful. quality of writing on a website as a ranking facI closely follow reputable SEO industry leaders tor. They have an algorithm that recognises bad to keep my skills up to date. Since 2009, I am writing and multiple typos and will devalue a also a part-time online SEO tutor at Search Engine website if the writing isn’t up to scratch.

“

As a content writer, you must have a love for the written word. How did this develop?

I’ve always loved writing. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Management, and all my jobs have involved writing and editing. In writing, I can really craft a story that draws people in and takes them on an interesting journey.

However, I’ve never liked flowery writing. I’m very direct and I love cutting out fluff. Since writing for the web is all about clarity and getting straight to the point, my job suits me to a T. I’m also very inquisitive. I ask questions readers would ask, and make sure the content answers them. Nobody likes a website with irrelevant content.

We’ve all heard the phrase ‘Content is King’ over the past few years. Can you share your philosophy on this?

Google’s advice to website owners has always been to have well-written, informative content, but recently they have increased the focus on this.

Content in itself isn’t king, but GOOD content is invaluable.

Using the right words gets your site found in search engines, keeps people interested, and turns visitors into customers.

People come to a website to get information, solve a problem, buy a product or hire someone.

Your content needs to be structured logically and answer people’s questions, or they will take their business elsewhere.

What are the top three things a business website should feature?

1. Details of all your products and services.

People want to know if you have or can do what they need. Be specific and don’t just list features but describe benefits.

2. An informative About Us page and full contact details. People prefer buying from businesses they trust, so be authentic, use real photos, and make it easy for people to contact you.

3. Testimonials. Anyone can claim they’re the best, but nothing beats other people vouching for your business.

Thank you Micky.

coffs coast focus 91

GIVING IS GOLD Holiday Coast Credit Union has proudly supported Life Education Australia since 2002, and is currently providing, $33,000 per year to support the education of children in the local area.

Life Education Australia provides positive programs that develop the social skills and knowledge necessary for effective decisionmaking, communication, negotiation, peer resistance and refusal in drug-related situations.

Life Education NSW. This is a major community giving program and one that all at Holiday Coast are extremely proud to be associated with. We encourage our staff to be actively involved in the local Life Education Support Groups … this engagement is part of our staff Community Giving Program.

Life Education’s programs are based on the latest research, and provide high quality drug education featuring role-play; social skills training; correction of common myths; and varied, fast-moving and interactive activities facilitated by excellent educators assisted by the latest multi-media technology.

“The benefits for sponsoring Life Education NSW is best seen through the eyes of the children that attend the school visits from the Life Education Van and Healthy Harold. The sponsorship of this program neatly aligns with Holiday Coast Credit Union’s strategic focus on enhancing our community’s well being, as well as demonstrating Holiday Coast Credit Union’s core values.” Neville Parsons - CEO Holiday Coast Credit Union.

Healthy Harold is a well-known and loved mascot who accompanies the local educator Leannne Goggin to local schools to roll out fun and engaging programs that are age specific.

“The support of organisations such as the Holiday Coast Credit Union enables us to keep providing essential services and programs to schools locally.” Jay Bacik – CEO

HOLIDAYCOAST credit union

It’s where you belong...

Ongoing annual contribution since 2002, currently

$33,000

pa

GIVINGISGOLD APPLY NOW FOR YOUR 2014 COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP GRANT GRA ANT The Application Form and the Grants Guidelines are available from the Holiday Coast Credit Union website at www.hccu.com.au, by calling 1300 365 7 24 or email ubelong@hccu.com.au Applications must be recieved by Holiday Coast Credit Union no later than 12 noon Wednesday 14 May 2014.

It’s where you belong...

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM 2014

1300 365 7 24

hccu.com.au

Holiday Coast Credit Union Ltd ABN 64 087 650 164, AFS & Australian Credit Licence: 240782. Registered Office: 1 Commerce Street, Wauchope.

92 coffs coast focus.

coffs coast focus 93

focusrealestate.

with Chris Hines from Unrealestate

COFFS HARBOUR HARDWOODS When it comes to hardwood, Coffs Harbour Hardwoods is one of Australia’s leading suppliers of hardwood timber products. We have a new focus on providing local builders, tradespeople or the DIYers with the finest quality hardwood products. With our great array of local hardwoods and a network of timber suppliers, we can source and supply the best hardwood species available for both internal and external applications.

Over the last couple of years we have set up a timber joinery that has now enabled us to provide timber in a moulded form in all different profile types. This exciting new venture allows us to give customers just about any shape they like; if you’re after something specialised such as a Federation style moulding

for an older house or you’d like to line your music studio with a timber moulding for

real

acoustics, we can do all of this … and more, whatever the brief that is required.

We’ve many different facets to the company to provide a range of services in hardwood timber - whether it is tongue and groove flooring, cross arms for electricity distribution companies or even architectural bespoke mouldings. We have the expertise and capabilities to provide our customers with a range of products and services that could rarely be matched by many companies within Australia.

Come and see us at this year’s home show, and we'll be glad to help you find what you need with your next project.

know you’re having the jitters.

Your open house is tomorrow. And first impressions count!

Help your real estate agent make it an open house to remember. Help them clinch that sale. The rule of thumb is to prepare well in advance, and not 24 hours before. Twenty-four hours will not be sufficient time for the nitty-gritty that will make or break a public showing. You remember how it was during school. If we crammed, we most likely failed the exam the next day. But when we studied weeks in advance, we felt we knew the subject matter by heart. The same principle applies to open houses. The harder and longer you prepare, the better the results will be. It may even put a few extra thousand dollars in your pocket.

Make a Lasting First Impression – most real estate agents agree: a clean house is the # 1 priority. The word ‘clean’, however, does not only mean a house that has been tidied up a few hours earlier, a walkway that was swept and hosed over, or windows that were cleared of dust and dirt. ‘Clean’ means a lot more than that.

Studies have shown that dwellings painted in neutral colours convey a more pleasant and warmer welcome to visitors; they are able to visualise better about how their own personal effects can blend with the colours. Imagine having a wall that’s painted fire engine red or bedrooms that look more like an artist’s mural because too many psychedelic colours are flooding the eye. Re-painting your house may not be a must, but if you decide to do so, do it a few weeks before; that way the fumes don’t linger.

The clutter, please – if you don’t want your potential buyers to trip just as they’re entering the house, eliminate unnecessary furniture and house accessories to allow

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for more breathing room. If visitors can’t move about freely because there are obstructions along the way, chances are they’re likely to go somewhere else.

Buyers will want to see the size of the closets, so eliminate the clutter. Leave the clothes and shoes neatly hung, but remove your grandmother’s old sewing machine.

If you have a family at home, don’t forget the children’s bedrooms. You know you’ve always wanted an excuse to clean up the toys; this is your chance. If the kids haven’t played with it for a while, pack it up and store it; they will get a kick out of getting out of storage at your new home.

Be considerate – while dogs and other pets are adorable creatures, they have no place in an open house. One or two of your buyers might not be animal lovers or are allergic to animal hair. Some buyers also know of the damage and dirt these creatures leave on their tracks, so keep them out of the house until the open house is over. I know they are part of the family, but they are not part of the family who are buying or looking to buy your home.

And oh yes, how about some nice, delicate flowers that don’t give off a strong smell?

This simple gesture will do wonders to liven up your home. Choose different pastel colours to serve as a contrast to the neutral background. On the morning of the open home, open the windows and doors if weather permits; there is nothing like fresh air. Also take into account the season. If it’s a hot day, turn on the air conditioner half an hour before the open; nothing is more welcoming then a cool home on a hot day, and vice versa a warm home on a cold day.

Above all, trust in the advice of your real estate agent.

Thanks for reading.

coffs coast focus 95

Imagine your home.

win a smeg kitchen appliance package.

Join our mailing list for your chance to win!!!

Just tell us in 25 words or less what you like most about our display home at 3 Green Bluff Road, North Sapphire and you’ll go into the draw to win a smeg kitchen appliance package worth $6,300.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

Winner to be drawn Friday 6th of June 2014.

Winner will be contacted via email or mobile phone. Package valued at $6,380. Competition starts 9am Saturday 1st February 2014 and ends 5pm Saturday 31st May 2014. Judges decision is final and cannot be exchanged for cash. G.J. Gardner Homes will not install the kitchen appliance package. G.J. Gardner Homes will provide a $1,000 cheque towards the

The package includes a brand new:

installation of your kitchen appliance package.

Please note the pictures in the photograph

• Cooker • Dishwasher

• Microwave • Range Hood

• Sink • Tap

above do not accurately depict the kitchen appliance package, for more information please consult your local G.J. Gardner Homes Franchisee.

To enter please email your name, number, email address and 25 words to susan.fischer@gjgardner.com.au Contact us on 132 789 or visit gjgardner.com.au