COFFS COAST
Feature Story Kevin Budge
March 2015//issue 54
COFFS HARBOUR
coffs coast focus. 1
focus
editor's note.
Photo by David Moore
COFFS COAST
Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.
ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au
contacts. EDITOR: Melly Shute melly@focusmag.com.au
SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Nicci Seccombe nicole@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com
ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au
SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au
COPY EDITOR Jo Atkins jo@focusmag.com.au
PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com
Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.
editor.
Melly Shute.
from the
Welcome to the March issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.
W
hat a fantastic month we have had executing this bumper edition of FOCUS. As you flip through our 104 delicious, glossy pages, you’ll be introduced to all that makes up this unique city from the eyes of the FOCUS team and all that contribute to putting this wonderful publication together every month! It is with great pleasure that we present you our annual “Women in Business” feature. This feature is, by all measures and accounts, a favourite feature of mine. I find it profound that Coffs Harbour has so many successful business women living, sharing ideas and inspiring each other. Often these women are juggling busy careers, running kids
around and keeping the house in order. I have read each story, and these women are truly inspiring. Real Humans of Coffs Harbour is inspired by New York Best Selling Author, Brandon Stanton, who moved to New York in 2010. As an amateur photographer, he was fascinated by the characters throughout the city. He began to take street portraits of people and shared their story on his Facebook page. With over 2.3 million followers, so began the “Humans of ...” movement. Our local version is on page 19. ON THE COVER Coffs Harbour Boardriders (CHBR) have recently competed in The Original Australian Boardriders Battle in Cronulla, Sydney, where they placed second - a
mammoth effort proving that you don’t need to be a huge club to be competitive! Eight people from each club from various levels of experience join forces to form a team. This is a fantastic opportunity for young surfers to surf and compete with older, more experienced surfers. A shout out to Tom Woods, ST Images, who captured the absolutely gorgeous team member Samarha Bye. ED’S PICTURE This photo was taken by photographer David Moore: www.moorephotography.com.au FINAL SAY
WALKER GROUP DPS
“I didn’t get there by wishing for it or hoping for it, but by working for it.” - Estee Lauder.
Melly Shute – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Instagram: @le_mellyshute
coffs coast focus. 5
9.
Lior.
inside this
With just four more shows in his Scattered Reflections tour before he knuckles down to work on a new album, Lior will be visiting us at Bellingen this month. With multi ARIA award nominations, a slew of critically acclaimed albums and a unique style, Lior promises an intimate solo show you won’t forget …
Issue 54 - March 2015
Donovan Frankenreiter. Donovan Frankenreiter, Hawaiian Blues man and pro surfer, is heading to Coffs Harbour as a prelude to the Byron Bay Blues Fest …
26.
6 coffs coast focus.
14.
Amber Carbury. Amber Carbury is an artist who lives in Valla. Amber expresses her interest in patterns, colour and nature and her work revolves around the human figure, with an emphasis on female form. This year Amber will concentrate on exhibiting and will focus on the piece she plans to enter in to the Archibald Prize.
usual suspects.
the
8. what’s on for March 76. social scene with Carole Beros 28. eat featuring local restaurants 93. star guide with Terri 72. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast
No matter where you are in the world, read Focus for free online every month @
www.focusmag.com.au follow us on
www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat
your dream home awaits
L A NJ D UST
FROM
0 0 0 , 5 4 $2
S P LIT
North Sapphire Beach is the kind of place you will truly be proud to call home. A place where the established and welcoming community is as much of a drawcard as the stunning coastal location.
North Sapphire Beach Offers: · Lots ranging from 512sqm to 674sqm · Over 38 hectares of parks and open space · Cycle paths and timber boardwalk connect homes with the beach
SOLI TAR Y RD
VISIT THE SALES CENTRE Cnr North Solitary Drive & Fisher Road North Sapphire Beach OPENING HOURS Wed - Sun 9am - 3pm or by appointment
· Adenbrook and GJ Gardner display homes now open · Beachstone Café within the community · Huge playground and park next to café · Only ten minutes’ drive to Coffs Harbour and airport · Land registration due February 2015 coffs coast focus. 7
AROUND THE REGION //MARCH 2015 Photo Credit: Chrissele George
6 11 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Make it happen, celebrate, and stop thinking small! Where Novotel Pacific Bay Resort. Date Friday 6th March - 6:45am - 8:30am. Contact Jenny 0411 463 592. Ticket information www.stickytickets.com.au/23148
8 coffs coast focus.
THE SWAMP STOMPERS Known to “have the goods” on stage, this band have landed themselves some sweet festival spots in the process, including the busking stage of Bluesfest Byron Bay, Sydney Blues & Roots Festival, and The Blues at Bridgetown Festival. Free 18+. When Friday 20th February 2015 - 7pm. Where The Hoey Moey.
8
WOW Women of the World Come and celebrate International Women’s Day in collaboration with the Women’s Refuge and Women’s Resource Centre. Free event for women to connect in a safe and sacred space and to celebrate women. When Sunday 8th March; 11am - 3pm Where Boambee Creek reserve www.fb.com/WOWWomen
MUSIC IN THE GARDENS
15
Musical extravaganza featuring various orchestras, jazz bands, pipe bands, vocalists and more. Face painting and activities for the kids. Bring a chair or blanket; food and drinks available on site. This is a no alcohol event. Where Botanical Gardens. When Sunday March 15th; 10am - 4pm. Cost $5 per person or $10 per family. Ticket sales At the gate or from Unreal Estate, Raine and Horne Coffs, Parrys Jewellers, ANZ Coffs, Key Employment. Contact Julie Jardine 0419 227 498 or see www.candocancertrust.com.au
focusinterview.
i
“
With just four more shows in his Scattered Reflections tour before he knuckles down to work on a new album, Lior will be visiting us at
Bellingen this month. With multi ARIA award nominations, a slew of critically acclaimed albums and a unique style, Lior promises an intimate solo show you won’t forget …
L
ior, you spent a lot of time touring with your new album, Scattered Reflections, in 2014. How did the tour go? It was fantastic. I started early last year with a full band and did a major city run with them. The album was crowd-sourced, so it was really nice to already have a community of people who got behind the album … and after that I did quite an extensive run of solo regional shows in places I’ve never been before. So yes - it was a pretty
started working with a new band which perform. In the simplest terms, you could featured two drummers, so the do anything - so why do you sing? second half of the album has Why do you perform? a much more percussive, I think taking songs from textured and layered your dream into the greater I think taking feel. It moves around public sphere is inherently song s from e th a lot, so dynamically just a way to connect to your dream in re he sp ic it’s definitely the most with people, and greater pu bl ay w a st ju ly eclectic album I’ve connecting with people nt is inhere ople , pe ith w t ec done. is what drives us and nn to co w ith g tin ec nn co Imagine you ultimately gives us the d an ives people is what dr were sitting in the performer in any work us ... ” audience, watching that we do. Performance yourself perform. How represents this in the artistic would you describe your medium that I do. solo shows to others? And it is an amazing feeling - I’m Obviously being a solo show, it’s always surprised when I stop performing, intimate … I guess it’s a recreation of a I feel like I sink into a kind of much more lounge room, really! mundane sense of normality, then when The thing that I love about these solo shows you start performing again you start getting is that they have a much more fluid and that feedback and that connection with the spontaneous feel, in an intimate way, than a audience. big band show. Because you don’t have a band Thanks Lior. looking to you for the next move, you can really Visit: Lior.com.au for more details about take the show to wherever you want to go, have albums and upcoming tours. a chat to the audience - it just has that intimacy about it that I, as an audience member, would love to see with an artist whose songs I like in the plug! that sort of setting. See Lior at the Memorial Centre, The other thing I should note also is that I’m Bellingen, on Friday 27th March. being supported by a young songstress from
extensive year of touring last year. Comparing Scattered Reflections to your first album, Autumn Flow - and considering there have been other studio and live albums since, do you feel your style has evolved much? How does Scattered Reflections differ to your previous work? I think it’s the most eclectic album I’ve done and it’s probably works like a record, in a sense, in that there are two sides… there is an acoustic, lyrical, stripped back thread, but I also
Melbourne called Domini Forster ... It always interests me with performers from any genre - singers, dancers, actors, comedians - what motivates them to
Tickets available from Waterfall Way Visitor Information Centre. (02) 6655 1522
coffs coast focus. 9
KENWALTER SPARE PARTS MANAGER SKINNER MOTORS
meet a 3rd generation
local.
I have moved elsewhere, but seem to find my way back. Tell us something we don't know about your day job ... Spare parts are like deciphering a secret code; every little part has a number and specific purpose. There are literally thousands of parts to go with hundreds of car models. You have to know every part available to fulfil the needs of your customer. It makes our job a lot easier if people know the make and model of their vehicle, not just the colour. 192-196 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour. 6652 1933
thi s is
coo
l
What is your role at Skinner Motors, and how long have you worked there? I have just started as the spare parts manager within the Skinner Motors family. The past five weeks has been spent getting to know the guys I work with and reacquainting myself with clients. Where did you do your formal training, and what attracted you to this type of career? A lot of my experience has come from training that I attained during my time at various dealerships and having over 21 years in the industry. I have worked with cars, trucks and even caravans; all of them offer something different in understanding your product and individual customer. I have always been a tinkerer; whether it’s motorbikes or cars, there are always bits and pieces laying around my garage, so it was second nature to pursue a career in the motor industry. What do you enjoy the most about your role and living on the Coffs Coast? Living and working in Coffs Harbour has provided me with some great experiences. I am actually a third generation local. My grandfather and father were from Karangi, and my mother’s side all lived in Bowraville, so the Coffs Harbour area has always been home.
celebrity DANCE FOR CANCER
WRAP UP
THE 5TH ANNUAL CELEBRITY DANCE FOR CANCER GALA FUNDRAISER WAS RECENTLY HELD AT C.EX COFFS, WHERE OVER 400 GUESTS DINED ON OYSTERS, PRAWNS AND DELICIOUS HOT AND COLD CANAPÉS WHILST ENJOYING FABULOUS DANCE PERFORMANCES BY SIX LOCAL IDENTITIES AND THEIR DANCE PARTNERS ALONG WITH SOME EXHIBITION DANCES, AND MC’D BY TALENTED LOCAL IDENTITIES EJ (2CS FM) AND ALICE WILLIAMS (AXIS PRINT). The event was opened by Mayor Denise Knight along with 20 Council employees, who performed a spontaneous “flash mob”, complete with their hi-vis vests! This well rehearsed routine choreographed by Julie Ross set the room alight to the tune of Moves like Jagger. Our line up of stars included an electric opening Rock ‘n’ Roll performance from Anthony Chouri (Café Aqua) and Sandy Smith (Razzle Dazzle Rockers), Shona Hunter (C.ex Group) dancing with Sean Heifford (Pacific Dancentre) dancing Ballroom, Glenda Halliwell (The Travel Centre) and Corrie Wade (Coffs Latin Rhythms) dancing a mix of dance styles, Bec Gaile (Coffs Hire) with Carol Young (Woolgoolga Dance Studio) with an amazing Musical Theatre piece, Adam Cross (NSW Real Estate) with Melissa Thompson (Pacific Dancentre) dancing Ballroom and Daryl Parmenter (BCU) dancing a comical Cuban Salsa with dance partner Chrissele George from Kulturithmik.
I t ’ s
All stars had to raise a minimum of $3,000 to take part in the event and vie for the prestigious “Highest Fundraiser Award”. They organised events in the lead up to the event and collectively raised $68,500. Our winner, Glenda Halliwell, raised an impressive $31,010, making her the state’s highest fundraiser. The people’s choice award, as voted by the audience, along with the judges’ choice award were both won by Bec Gaile and Carol Young with their impressive Musical Theatre tap dance routine, which had everyone clapping and singing along. Major sponsors of the night included C.ex Group, 2CS, Advocate and FOCUS, and total funds raised on the night were approximately $98,000, bringing the total amount raised for the past five years to nearly $400,000. The event is now held in all Cancer Council regions across NSW.
a l l
About Mary B I G
G A R D E N
F U R N I T U R E
CUSTOM VANITY b y
g a r e t h
o w e n
SOLID SPOTTED GUM VANITY UNIT WITH HIGH QUALITY PUSH TO OPEN DRAWERS. HIDDEN PLUMBING AND TWO PACK POLYURETHANE FINISH.
10 coffs coast focus.
Visit the showroom today. 40 Pacific Highway Woolgoolga www.biggardenfurniture.com.au 0417 205 807
LOCAL AUTHOR ROBYN MCLENNAN’S HAS JUST PUBLISHED HER FOURTH CHILDREN’S BOOK; ABOUT MARY. The story is far removed from Robyn’s trilogy, Clunkerton series. Inspired by sister’s 30 year old, talkative white cockatoo, Mary. “After one of her lengthy, quiet little chats with us, I knew I had to write her story. I felt I owed it to her for she has given us so much pleasure over the years with both her comical and adorable antics”, says Robyn. Illustrator, Jules Faber, has brought much meaning to the book with his beautiful illustrations. With an underlining message that
is slightly exaggerated but partly true the tale is told through the eyes of Mary herself with many subtle messages in it. The book is a warm, sensitive, sometimes funny, sometimes sad tale about the journey throughout her life and how she has learned to cope with the changes she has encountered along the way. For sale at Book Warehouse, Coffs Harbour together with our own Botanic Gardens. $15 each. 66525114 to contact author direct.
McGuigan BMW
Sales Finance Service Parts
WHERE 2 NEXT? THE FIRST EVER BMW 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER HAS ARRIVED AT MCGUIGAN BMW.
Introducing a BMW like no other, the first ever BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. Designed to fit in all that life has to offer, you will revel in a true sense of space and trademark BMW luxury. Boasting an innovative design and all the performance you expect from the Ultimate Driving Machine, this BMW is ready for whatever, whenever, wherever. So no matter where life takes you next, embrace it at McGuigan BMW today. McGuigan BMW 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Ph 6588 8500. www.mcguiganbmw.com.au DL7571
focusinterview.
kevinBudge (Budgie)
Kevin Budge (Budgie) is a true blue Coffs Harbour local, proud to have been raised here and then to raise his own family here. Budgie has two children and a gorgeous wife, Carol. By day you can find any member of the family working in their music store. Budgie is also a part owner of Resort Latitude Zero in Indonesia.
W
hat did you enjoy about growing up in Coffs Harbour? I was born in the Sunnyside Maternity Hospital in Elizabeth St, Coffs Harbour. I'm pretty sure it was closed in the early ‘60s. Basically, anyone who’s a “Sunnysider” is in their 50s. Coffs Harbour was a great place to grow up - particularly the Jetty area. Everyone knew everyone; no-one locked their front doors. It was the freedom that we all loved. The beaches, surfing, rope swings at the Butter Factory, billy carts, bike riding, fishing - the list goes on. Essentially, we made our own fun! My family and I still love the Coffs Coast. It has changed a lot since the old sign read: “Welcome to Coffs Harbour; Population -11,000”. It is easy to say that we had the best of Coffs Harbour in the old days, but we just have to accept change and some of the benefits. For instance, our sporting facilities are so good now. No more basketball competitions on asphalt courts. Sprung floors and indoor courts are so much better. Tell us about your amazing wife and children? Carol and I met at the beach and the basketball stadium at the show ground many moons ago. We have two children, Gareth and Caitlan. By day Carole and I run Park Beach Music and HI Fi, Park Beach Plaza. The kids have worked at the shop at various times through the years. Over the years we have had various family members work at the shop: brothers, sisters, children, nephews and friends have all contributed. Caitlan is currently running stock management at Terry White Chemist, and Gareth has been working for Resort Latitude Zero for over three years while completing his IT Degree. The whole family loves the ocean, 12 coffs coast focus.
Gareth and Caitlan both surf, and Caitlan's husband, Duncan, is a surf photographer. Carol and I have worked together side by side for over 30 years. We have tried to build a specialty music shop, everything music. Our specialist staff have been instrumental to our success. We have had seen a lot of changes over the years The area has - major comings and around 30 goings. Something like waves to suit all d the internet has a big an levels of surfing impact on how we do t ub do t ou ith is w business. Somehow we one of the most have survived economic consistent wave ld .” motel style rooms. highs and lows. I think areas in the wor We have just started the fact that we stick to building some Beach what we know and evolve Bungalows that will be ready with the industry has been key for the 2016 season. We also to our longevity. Music makes the have a couple yachts that do surf world a better place - imagine the world charters through the Mentawai Islands. without music ... I can't. You are a mad surfer… what is it that Not only are you a successful you love about the waves and the ocean? businessman in Coffs harbour, you are Surfing has been a huge part of my life, also an owner of a Surfing Island near growing up around the Jetty, surfing North Indonesia. Tell us about this ... Wall South Wall and Gallows. I took off to My other business is Resort Latitude Zero; it Indonesia back in the ‘80s with Scott “Jacko” is a Surf Resort in Sumatra, Indonesia. Along Jackson for the most amazing surf trip and with three other partners, local businessman have been hooked ever since. Surfing is not John Farlow and I have been involved from just a sport; it's a way of life. I surf mostly the ground up. In 2007 we started building around Sawtell and Coffs Harbour and have a purpose built surf resort on a previously made a lot of friends in doing so … uninhabited island near the equator in Indonesia, thus the name: Resort Latitude Zero. Tell us about your basketball days; you have played and coached. What do you The area has around 30 waves to suit all love about the game, and what are your levels of surfing and is without doubt one of highlights? the most consistent wave areas in the world. My other sport was basketball when I Most of our bookings are done through our was younger. I played for the Coffs Harbour website with my son, Gareth. There have been Suns for 17 consecutive seasons, until I had lots of people from the Coffs area go there, a hip problem. Both Carol and I were heavily and they have enjoyed fantastic holidays. It's a involved in the sport. Having played, coached, beautiful area: very isolated, warm water, sun, refereed, I’ve been the President, organised surf and great local food. presentations and lots of travelling. At present the accommodation involves two Absolutely fun times and lots of lifetime Queenslander buildings with air-conditioned
“
memories and friends. The best thing about basketball was being involved in a team sport. It is something that everyone should do as they grow up - to learn how to react in a team environment. After a few years’ break, I was talked into making a comeback as coach of an under 18s team. It was one of the most rewarding sporting things I've done. Over the next two years, we (the team) went from a good bunch of players to a successful team. We were the first boys’ team in the area to compete in the state finals. The highlight was playing the curtain raiser to the Australia vs Russia women's game at our home court. It was our first finals game against the highest ranked team in Sydney, The Hill's Hornets. Someone forgot to remind my guys that we were just there to make up the numbers. We trailed the high profile team for most of the game, but hung in there. With a few minutes to go, the boys scored some of the best team baskets that I can remember. Could not have been more proud of the guys when we hit the front and won the game. The roof nearly came off the stadium. In recent years I've taken up Golf. I enjoy the comradeship at Coffs Golf Club; we are so lucky to have such a quality course at our doorstep. Thanks Budgie.
coffs coast focus.
13
focusinterview.
F R A N K E N R E I T E R
DONOVAN FRANKENREITER, HAWAIIN BLUES MAN AND PRO SURFER, IS HEADING TO COFFS HARBOUR AS A PRELUDE TO THE BYRON BAY BLUES FEST…
T
ell me about your early days and how you discovered music as a passion ... I was on a surf trip around the age of 16 and I went to one of my buddies to pick him up, and he had a guitar leaning up against a couch. I remember it was the first time I’d picked up an instrument, and I just fell in love with it - it was something that I instantly gravitated towards. It reminded me of the first time I ever caught a wave; it was a way that I could make sounds and create music. He taught me three chords and how to play some of the songs I’d listened to for so long; maybe a day or two later I went home and I bought a guitar, and I’ve just been non-stop addicted to playing and learning more. It’s been a long road and journey. I didn’t start writing my own songs until the age of 30, so it was a long time after I picked up a guitar when it all came together for me. So at the age of 30, 14 years after picking up a guitar, what was it that inspired you at that point to start writing your own music? I was in bands for a long time playing rhythm guitar, and I was in cover bands. It was around the time that I met my wife and I remember coming home quite a bit from shows just feeling kinda miserable playing music; it was weird - I was just like a live jukebox, playing other people’s music - and she got kind of sick of me coming home with how bummed out I was ... So she told me, “Why don’t you just write your own stuff and sing?” I’d never sung before that and never wrote my own songs and I just said, “Why not? I’d feel better and feel like I succeeded just doing my own stuff, rather than just playing other
14 coffs coast focus.
people’s music ...” tonnes of percussion stuff. So, I started doing that right when I met There are no drums on the entire album; it’s her at the age of 30; she pushed me in that all different sorts of percussion things, and it direction. just turned out we were able to make it sound When did you get signed as a discovered like a drum kit. Everything was played live; artist? nothing was sampled or anything. It took about a year and a half playing Is there anything else you’d like share shows and singing on the with our readers? microphone, before I had You can tell everybody enough songs together. The that we are making a first deal that I signed was new record in May; it F O T LO with Brushfire Records will be up online or on IT WA S A E BL A G IN on Jack Johnson’s label. Facebook and there’s FU N BE K IN TH ER V O So, that’s how it all going to be a link TO N OT IN O G ST JU D started, with Jack’s that you can click on IT A N O W H AT D D N A E ER label Brushfire through and you can watch TH ND FE LT R IG H T A Universal. It was the first us actually make our M .” H AV E A N A LB U time I’d signed a record record in the studio. deal; I’d never really been There’s going to be a in a proper studio making live feed of 10 different an album so, it was a great cameras, and we’re going to experience, and that was over 10 make our new record live on the years ago. internet for people to check out the You’ve pumped out quite a few records creation and the recording process and since then. With this latest work how it’s all going to go down. you’ve produced, it was just you and your How did you come up with this unique bass player in the studio together for five way of making the new record? days? I went in to the studio, it’s called “Blue Yeah, we just got into the studio and spent Rock”, and I did a concert there. It was a five days together, and the whole record was live concert, but there was nobody there - it done. A lot of stuff was done with acoustics was just us in the studio, but you were able and some electric stuff, but a lot of percussion to click on a link and watch us live through ... and yeah, it was an interesting way to make the internet, from wherever you were in the a record. It was fun! It was a lot of fun being world. It went over really well and thousands able to not overthink it and just go in there of people logged on and watched it; it was and do what felt right and have an album. really cool. We had a heap of different instruments that I remember having dinner that night in the we hadn’t used before, like the different kinds studio with the people who owned it and I of banjos, lap steel, different kinds of basses, said, “ Hey, what would you guys think if we
“
came in and made our next record, and you had the cameras going 24/7?” So whatever we recorded that day, we’ll have another crew come in at night and mix it and master it that night, so no matter where people were in the world, they’d always be seeing something going on at the studio. While we are doing it, people could chime in and ask questions, like: “What kind of guitar are you playing” or “What are you doing here”... I thought, “Why not maybe on the next record make it the most interactive record I can make - record a song and not finish the bridge and maybe have one of the fans write the bridge”? We will be shooting a bunch of photos and uploading pictures, find out what fans like for the best album cover design, and whoever does these things and wins the opportunity, we’ll fly them in to the studio for the last day of recording and mixing and celebrate the launch of the record. I think it’ll be something where people will be wondering what we’re doing; they can always chime in and see what’s happening in the studio and hear the songs actually get created from the very beginning, right from the get go. Thanks Donovan. To find out more, head to www.donovanf. com
the plug! Wednesday 1 April 2015 (opening 8:45pm) at Hoey Moey Hotel. Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour www.hoeymoey.com.au 18+ AUD$44.90 www.donovanf.com
OLD CHURCH OF BELLINGEN Once a church to the community of Bellingen from the early 1900s, the Old Church building has since housed a restaurant, garden centre and retail shops. Now undergoing a huge exterior makeover, the Old Church offers unlimited potential for the right tenants - how would you utilise this space? Bellingen has for a long time been the creative and artistic hub for the Coffs Coast, and now locals and visitors alike recognise Bellingen as a burgeoning food and retail destination. With great exposure, just off the main intersection in town, No 8 Church St now offers a unique venue, whether it be for a bistro/wine bar, boutique brewery, event venue, health and wellbeing centre or a group of start-up businesses. Externally the building now boasts two beautiful Merbau timber decks, providing fabulous covered seating areas, and the grounds have been landscaped and paved, giving multiple useful spill over areas. Access to all the doorways from the pavement is on one level,
5 TIPS to save your marketing budget providing wheelchair accessibility to the entire building. Internally the building has the original timber floors, high ceilings and original windows. The large floor spaces can be configured into multiple tenancies or one large enterprise. The new owners, Peter and Chris Lubans, made the decision to take on this project to make the “Old Church” a destination in its own right and are looking for businesses that are excited to make this a vibrant new venue for Bellingen. They have a proven track record being the previous developers and owners and managers of the highly successful “Coffs Promenade”development; they advise that early applicants for space will have the benefit of choosing their favoured area and being able to have their own layout worked into the final fit-out. Contact Peter Lubans on 0428 664 881 or email peterlubans@bigpond.com for further information.
There’s a myth out there that marketing is expensive. Certainly, it can be there’s no doubt about that, but there are also a great deal of opportunities where you can market for less or no cost at all which is good news! Here’s five thrifty marketing tips to save you: 1. Social media - is one key area where you can minimise marketing spend and maximise exposure. Utilising tools such as Facebook boosted posts or sponsored ads, google ads and other social media channels like Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn to raise profile and engagement with your target consumers is relatively inexpensive. Just go in with a plan! 2. SEO - spend some time using the Google AdWords tool to find out what the top search results are for your product or service and optimise your site’s pages based on the keywords as well as update your content to reflect the high ranking key words. 3. Blogging - consider writing a blog about
your products and services, an article on industry trends or issuing a topical press release to media to gain free coverage. This helps with credibility, improving your brand profile in the market. 4. Back to basics - pick up the phone and call some prospects or past clients/customers and see how they are going. Nothing shows that you care more about your clients/customers experience, than, well asking them about it! 5. Digital marketing - instead of that costly mail out to customers, why not utilise an email campaign management system like mail chimp? It costs a small fraction and perhaps may be received better than print. Also consider using digital stationery and brochures rather than print. The bottom line to all of this is to have a strategy. Know your business and what you want to achieve and measure it. You might be pleasantly surprised. Happy marketing!
MARKETING SALES WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN EVENTS TAKE A FR ES H AP PROAC H
Book your FREE 30 minute appointment today 0400 560 323 hello@cornerpostconsulting.com.au cornerpostconsulting.com.au
coffs coast focus.
15
focusinterview.
The Original Source Australian Boardriders Battle is the biggest grassroots, boardriders’ event in Australia. It involves more
than 100 of Australia’s best boardriders’ clubs across eight state qualifying rounds, culminating in a two
day National Final for 20 clubs on the Australia Day Long Weekend at Cronulla in Sydney.
COFFS HARBOUR
B
I
L
L
16 coffs coast focus.
A
M
A
H
R
A
B
Y
E
K
E
A
N
fter Coffs Harbour Harbour Boardriders? Boardriders scored the Each state had their own state qualifying wildcard to compete in the rounds during 2014, which leads up to the event, the team pushed Australia Day National Final in 2015. Back on to place first in the in November 2014, our team travelled to much revered Teams Event Yamba to compete in the NSW northern state and an outstanding second place round, going head to head with overall! 11 NSW boardriders clubs. What was the battle In this battle it really did plan, and how many come down to the wire; It’s a fantastic people make up there were fingernails event teams? being chewed for sure. and offers an Eight competitors We were up against opportunity for be from each club with Le-Ba (Lennox/Ballina) to s young surfer ith various levels of and Byron Bay and w er in the wat on e ar experience and skills found ourselves within ho w s surfer .” ur to ld join forces to form a striking distance of or w the team. Our local team victory until the dying included Samahra Bye, minutes of the final teams Brayden Templeton, Angela event. Le-Ba and Byron Bay Keighran, Shaun Cansdell, Jayke teams were able to sneak ahead Sharp, Billy Kean, Madison Williams and of us by only 150 points, putting us Lee Winkler. Each team must include in third place, and only the top two went one junior (under 18), four open ages through. Shaun Cansdell was presented the and one over 35 year old. Each team must Heavy Duty Hack award for posting the only also include at least one female surfer. It’s a perfect ten-point of the event. fantastic event and offers an opportunity for How was the “wildcard” instrumental in young surfers to be in the water with surfers Coffs Harbour Boardriders participating who are on the world tour - a chance they in the National Final? would never normally ever get. After being so close at Yamba, we were What is the qualifying schedule, and fired up to apply for one of the four wildcards what was the journey like for Coffs that was being given out by Surfing Australia.
“
S
Y
focusinterview. PHOTOS BY TOM WOODS, ST IMAGES
B
R
A
Y
D
E
N
T
E
M
P
L
J
A
Y
K
E
S
H
A
R
P
When the news came, the club was so stoked. We only had two weeks to organise everything it takes to get a team down there and our heads in the game. How did we place, and what happened on the day? On the first day of heats, we had to compete in the female heats, skins event and the teams event. At the end of the day, the total scores are tallied and clubs are set for the final day. The final day consisted of the skins and team events. The Hoey Moey hosted the rest of our club during the final day back here in Coffs Harbour, and we just went crazy when our team knocked over Snapper Rocks Club to win the teams event final. You can imagine what is was like when we then went on to take second place in the overall points. Our team was truly outstanding on the final day, led by Jayke Sharp. The powerful Snapper Rocks lineup consisted of: Joel Parkinson, Mitch Crews, Mitch Parkinson, Reef Doig, Holly-Daze Coffey, Sheldon Simkus, Quinn Bruce, Jay Phillips, Wayne Bartholomew (coach) and Lorraine Bryant (coach) and were eventually winners of the entire event. Several awards were given out after the final day was completed and a special mention to Jayke Sharp, who was awarded the Wayne Bartholomew Medal for the best performing male surfer at the National Final. The overall results were, Snapper Rocks - 5525, Coffs Harbour - 4800 points and Culburra - 4262 points.
E
T
O
N
M
A
D
I
S
L
E
E
S
H
O
N
W
I
W
I
L
L
I
N
K
L
E
R
C
A
N
A
M
S
e You can imagin e lik as w is t wha ent on to when we then w in the e take second plac team ur O . ts overall poin nding was truly outsta d by le on the final day, ” p. ar Sh e yk Ja
“
Joel Parkinson and his team from Snapper Rocks gave our team a standing ovation after we won the semi-final of the teams event, which meant a lot to us and showed his and his club’s great sportsmanship. Why is this event unique? Nowhere else in the world has an event like this. Where else do you see junior competitors in the water competing against some of the world’s best surfers? Anything can happen on the day, and that’s what is so fantastic about the format of the battle. It’s an amazing experience, especially for our younger surfers. Looking out to the water and seeing Samahra Bye surfing side by side with world champion Joel Parkinson is a memory we will all have forever (you just can’t wipe the smile of our sis’ face). We were just so excited to be able to participate in the final event, let alone place second. Our members are all so passionate about the sport we love and to pull together to get our team down there and get that result is epic! The name Coffs Harbour is well and truly on the map in the Australian surfing community, and we aim to keep it there. What does it take to get a team to this level of competition? I know it is clichéd, but it really is a group effort. From our Club Committee, Coach (Macho), Managers (Bevan White and
A
U
N
Grom Wilson), our Club and Representative Secretaries (Leisa Kadwell and Gigs Peplow), sponsors - the list goes on. Key players in our success are the parents who tirelessly support our club - without that support and their dedication and love of the club, these types of things just aren’t possible. Over the past two years our committee has built the club up to this stage. We have always had crazy talent here; we just needed to give this talent a platform and support. It really has given us the drive and knowledge that we don’t necessarily have to be a big
S
D
E
L
L
club to be competitive. Our surfers who competed in this event deserve a massive shout out … they are all such inspirational people and really believe in our club and what we do. They all give our grommies the time of day, whether they are future stars of our sport or our local kids who want to surf and have fun and meet friends. We’ve created a culture we can be proud of and call a family. We surf together, travel together, we compete together, celebrate together and support each other. Coffs Coast surfing is alive and well! #go2450 coffs coast focus.
17
focusinterview.
HUMANS Coffs Harbour real
We took to the streets of Coffs Harbour and asked people in our community: “Who or what has been the most inspiring influence in your life?” If you know someone who has an inspirational story to share and would like to be featured on this page, please contact melly@focusmag.com.
My mother inspires me e because she is th , ul tif au be most giving , talented woman that I have ever met .”
“
JACQUI BOYNS Owner: Jacqui’s Shoe Boutique
GLENDA HALLIWELL Owner/Manager Travel Centre Coffs Harbour What is the most inspiring thing you’ve done this year? My proudest achievement this year was participating in the recent Celebrity Dance for Cancer to raise funds for the Cancer Council.
Who is the person who has inspired you the most? My mum sent me this massive bunch of flowers today, because today is my birthday. My mother inspires me, because she is the most beautiful, giving, talented woman I have ever met.
At the outset I set myself an ambitious goal of $30,000. The fundraising was a challenge that I enjoyed; each event I held was successful and heaps of fun, even though quite nerve wracking. The more money I raised, the more confident I became. It almost became an obsession, but I exceeded my target - I think I work best under pressure! The challenge of learning a new dance style and fundraising took me completely out of my comfort zone. My fabulous dance partner, Corrie Wade, made it so much fun and I have also benefited from the great exercise. I look forward to continuing the lessons, as I enjoyed them so much. My good friend, Sally Simmon, plus my staff at Travel Centre and husband Alan were my fabulous support team, and without them it would not have been possible for me to have been so successful. A big thank you to everyone who donated, attended and encouraged me to succeed.
ROBYN JENKINS Business owner, Harbour Sweets Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life and what types of people inspire you? Despite the loss of two children and other hardships, my mum and dad managed to raise myself and my three other siblings with much love and laughter. My aunt Violet, who lived into her 80s, was a huge inspiration to me. She lost both her legs due to an illness, yet she always maintained her independence and her wicked sense of humour ‘til the very end. I also find inspiration in people who give their time to make a difference in the lives of animals. Sally from Happy Paws Haven in Grafton works tirelessly to find homes and a better life for abused and abandoned dogs and cats. These are the types of people who inspire me.
18 coffs coast focus.
She lost both her legs due t she to an illness , ye ned always maintai ce en her independ nse se d ke ic and her w e th l ‘ti r ou of hum very end.”
“
focusinterview.
MICHAEL SIMMON Jack Simmons Mensland
JACOB VENN Retail Hero, Uptown Local Who has influenced you the most in your life? My inspiration both professionally and personally are my amazing girlfriends, Micah and Ange. The girls are a huge support of my growth as a lover of fashion, culture and all things unique. I am very blessed to have such amazing family and friends.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life? My mother Elizabeth, simply because she is my mum and I love her (of course) and because my three sons simply adore her (can’t argue with that). She taught me about her Lebanese heritage through her cooking and has passed her Lebanese hospitality and cooking skills down to me - just ask my friends how I always over-cater! She is also a hard worker. Although she now has very low vision, she still works five and a half days a week and manages to turn up for work before my brother and I each morning. My sons cannot see past her, and they can do no wrong in her eyes! We should probably step up and look after her, but she is still the one looking after us!
BRYN GOODE business owner, giant media Who has been the biggest inspiration in your life? Henry Rollins has been the biggest inspiration in my life; he started out singing for State Alert and then moved on to front Black Flag. Really, from after his self titled stuff it’s been all about his spoken word and the books that he has written that inspire me. Here is just a passage: “If you hate your parents, the man or the establishment, don’t show them up by getting wasted and wrapping your car around a tree. If you really want to rebel against your parents, out-learn them, outlive them, and know more than they do.”
TRACEY AND GENEVIEVE ROHR. CafÉ Owners, Bacio What is the most inspiring thing you’ve done this year? Our parents have instilled the importance of hard work and the value of social inclusion. Our sister, Melissa, inspires us not to put limitations on ourselves as well as those around us, even if society thinks they do have limits. Our family has given us the strength to face all life challenges head on and never shy away from making a stand and promoting change, no matter how controversial ... We stand up and support those who find it difficult to do so themselves.
JOHN ARKEN Woolgoolga legend Who has been the person who has influenced you the most in your life? Martin Luther King. He was a preacher, a teacher. He believed in humanity across the board, no separation, no discrimination. What I find profound is the fact he believed that action is better than being silent. One of his quotes that will continue to inspire me is: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”.
coffs coast focus.
19
focusinterview.
MARK AL
E •
IN
A • C
T
G R U I T E N B E R
MARK RUITENBERG IS THE FOUNDER OF CATALYST MACHINE. HIS PASSION IS BUILDING, CUSTOMISING AND RIDING MOTORCYCLES OF ALL TYPES. UNSATISFIED WEARING T-SHIRTS AND APPAREL GARNISHED WITH MOTORCYCLE MANUFACTURER LABELS AND UNABLE TO FIND READILY AVAILABLE CUSTOM DESIGNS, CATALYST MACHINE WAS BORN.
YST M
H C A
S
ome may recognise you as the old owner at Urban Espresso. After selling the business you moved to Melbourne to further your career in coffee … What type of work were you doing in Melbourne, and what brought you home? I relocated to Melbourne to establish another café. I became a little sidetracked and “fell” into a position working for a multinational company in the coffee industry. After 18 months I took a promotion in the Perth office, where I stayed for a few years. Unhappy with the isolation of Perth and the corporate direction, I moved to Sydney in 2013. Long daily commutes made Sydney unbearable, so my wife and I moved back to the Coffs Coast, where we are now happily settled in the Orara Valley. Your label, Catalyst Machine, is targeted to motorcyclists and people interested in motorcycle culture. Where does your interest in motorcycles stem from? I always admired motorcycles from my late teens; however, my family had a strong influence on me not obtaining my motorcycle licence, due to the inherent risks! After procrastinating for several years, I finally went for my licence whilst living in Sydney in 2013. From then I have been hooked, owning four bikes in two years (of which I still have three!) The interest in motorcycles for me has not only been for the freedom of riding but the many other aspects involved, such as customisation, working on your bike and the social aspect of riding with like-minded friends! What clothes made this first collection? The first collection includes six T-shirts comprising three different designs, each with two colour options. I don’t focus on a specific genre of motorcycle when designing, as my interests are varied (I currently have a vintage café racer, cruiser, sports bike and I’m looking at dirt bikes). As the label grows organically, I have designs ready for trucker caps, a women’s line, and a winter range. At the moment it’s about testing the market with the current lineup and expanding into new products as I reach my targets. How are you utilising your graphic design craft during the design process? A combination of hand drawn sketches, photographs and electronic imagery are used to create each design. For example, with the “Anvil” T-shirt, I was looking for a rough, hand 20 coffs coast focus.
Costs are gher considerably hi ng ri tu ac than manuf er, I overseas; howev tegrity in e th at th believe label e th and quality of entire e th if is preserved aged an m be n ca process face to face .”
“
drawn look for the main text. Unable to find a font that suited my vision, I took a sharpie and roughly drew the lettering. I scanned it into my Mac, traced over the top of it using specialist software, then separated, resized and roughened each letter before reassembling into its position. A detailed design like the “Gearhead” T-shirt took around 20 hours from start to finish for a draft. I try to design a concept in one sitting, so the design can be realised without any outside influences that alter the original idea. I usually come back to a design a day or two later to “clean up” anything needing attention and to reassess its appeal with fresh eyes. You plan on growing the label organically. What is your business plan, and how are you going about generating new stockists? The immediate plan is to continue to create a “following” for the label. Without an engaged audience, you can have the coolest stuff available, but no one will know about it. Selected stores that fit the brand guidelines are currently being approached in person. I have made enquiries to stores outside the region to gauge levels of interest before travelling. As retail and wholesale sales come in, part of the revenue will be reinvested into ordering higher quantities, allowing the label to become more sustainable (by reducing the price per unit)
when selling to stockists. Part of the revenue will go into production of new lines such as the winter, women’s and accessories. Online sales also make up a percentage of sales. Are you manufacturing locally or off shore, and what was your thought process behind this decision? Garments are printed domestically, which helps to reduce production and shipping times and maintain transparency. Costs are considerably higher than manufacturing overseas; however, I believe that the integrity and quality of the label is preserved if the entire process can be managed face to face. Our printer manufactures for various high-end labels, and their expertise is highly regarded. You have quite the following on social media; how important is this aspect in your label? Crucial! The response on social media has been overwhelming, considering the number of followers gained since late December. It creates opportunity to showcase product, retailers and keep followers engaged. I encourage feedback on design concepts, which assists me in deciding what makes production. Thus far, what’s been your biggest challenge, and how have you overcome this? Making the decision to personally fund the
first production run! I have always been one to play it “safe”. Sometimes you need to throw out your inhibitions and trust that what you are producing will be well received enough to be purchased. If it doesn’t sell, accept that you took a risk, learn from it, and move on to the next project. My wife Nicola says, “If it doesn’t work, at least you won’t ever need to buy another T-shirt”. Thankfully, the first production run sold out of one design and had limited sizes left in the other two designs in only four days! I live by the following statement when designing, “If you always try to make cool s#@t, don’t worry about your ‘competition’; your loyal fans will always believe in your vision”. (Rusty Butcher Leather Goods, USA.) Where do you hope to take the label in the coming years? I’d love to see the label stocked in outlets throughout the country and be respected and supported by the motorcycling community. It would be a real buzz to go for a ride and see someone proudly wearing my hard work! Locally, where are you stocked? Boomtown Grooming & Apparel in First Ave, Sawtell. I will also be at North Coast V Twins “Harley Davidson Street Party” on February 21st promoting the label with a pop up store. Connect with our social media here: www.catalystmachine.com Thanks Mark.
Max Cullen and Warren Fahey at the coffs library Coffs Harbour’s Harry Bailey Memorial Library is delighted to be hosting a live performance by renowned actor Max Cullen and performer Warren Fahey of “Diggers’ Songs, Stories and Humour of the Great War” on 11 March. Songs and humour played a vital role in the Great War. WWI Diggers were recruited through songs, trained in army camps to the sound of the bugle and marched off to war to the music of military bands and parodies of popular songs like It’s A Long Way to Tipperary and Goodbye-ee. Songs and ditties were also an integral aspect of the front line, where humour was a necessary part of trench life and survival. Renowned Australian actor Max Cullen is appearing with Warren Fahey (AM), author, performer and cultural historian, in this unique performance of the songs, stories and humour of WWI diggers. They bring together rarely seen archival images and true Aussie wit and humour to show a different side of the ANZAC story. Warren Fahey has been collecting Australian folklore for around 50 years, including the definitive collection of our military song tradition. He has published many pieces on Australian folklore and he’s an accomplished performer. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet Max Cullen and Warren Fahey in the intimate environment that the library offers and celebrate the centenary year of the ANZACs with this unique performance.
Clark RUBBER Robotic pool cleaners have taken the swimming pool industry by storm. Robotic pool cleaners run on electricity and, unlike traditional suction cleaners, run independently of the pool’s filtration system. The robotic cleaner can be left in the pool for an extended period of time operated by way of a built-in timer, or it can be placed in the pool when needed. A robotic cleaner will clean an average domestic pool in as little as 3 hours. As well as vacuuming debris from the floor and wall of the pool, a Filtrite robotic cleaner will filter up to 16,000 litres of water per hour. That’s like adding another filtration system to your pool. There are 3 Filtrite robotic cleaners in the range. Manufactured for Clark Rubber by Maytronics, and all come with an exclusive 3 year warranty. Prices start at $1099. Drop into Clark Rubber at Mastracolas Road next to Supercheap Auto to see a Filtrite robotic cleaner in action and to speak to one of our trained staff members. Also, for the next 2 weeks, Clark Rubber is offering a no obligation demonstration of the robotic cleaners in your own pool (local area, ring for details). Clark Rubber also carries a wide range of traditional suction pool cleaners starting at $249 for the Avenger cleaner, or the ever-popular Kreepy Krauly range starting at $399.
giant media The benefits of custom-designed websites In the market for a new website? If you’re considering a template, consider these factors first: Functionality: A template 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 know-how 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: Template sites are often built quickly and cheaply and do not perform well in Google searches. 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 us on 6651 5322 or visit www.giantmedia.com.au
coffs coast focus.
21
focusinterview.
SAWTELL
CINEMA
STEPHANIE NEY
A GIANT STEP HAS BEEN TAKEN TOWARDS SAVING THE MUCHLOVED SAWTELL CINEMA. A GROUP OF LOCAL BACKERS, ACTING AS THE SAWTELL CINEMA GROUP, HAS RECENTLY CLOSED A CONTRACT WITH THE PREVIOUS OWNERS, BARRIE AND GRETEL BRISSETT, TO PURCHASE THE BUILDING.
S
ince the last movie was screened in December 2012, Stephanie Ney has been working hard by enrolling in the School for Social Entrepreneurs with the purpose of finding a way to return the Sawtell Cinema to the community. Originally from Sydney, what is your career background? My career started in publishing, then moved to advertising and then the Arts. I worked for two great Arts institutions: Bell Shakespeare and the MCA in the ‘90s. It was my role to look after the private patrons and sponsors, so my career developed in fundraising. I ran my own consultancy for many years, working between the not-for-profit and corporate sectors, before moving to Sawtell. You are a fellow of the School for Social Entrepreneurs Social Change 101 Coffs Harbour Program. How was this instrumental in the re-opening of the Sawtell Cinema? I was one of the many people devastated when the Sawtell Cinema closed at the end of 2012, as it was one of the main reasons I moved to Sawtell! So part of the reason I enrolled in the course was to explore how we could bring the cinema into the 21st Century and run it as a viable business. I investigated many options and with the help of local accountant, Denis Jeff, g2 architects and many other passionate locals, we came up with the 22 coffs coast focus.
current model - that is, locals investing in a unit trust that purchases and refurbishes the building into a twin cinema, which is then leased to a private operator. How many and who are the private investors behind the reopening of the cinema? There are 19 investors in the cinema - all local, some couples, most from Sawtell. They are an inspiring group of talented and passionate people who bring not just money, but a range of skill sets that is going to make this project not just possible, but fabulous! What is the history of the Sawtell Cinema? The Cinema really is an iconic building and part of the Sawtell social and cultural fabric. Seventy-four years ago, Doris and Alan Brissett purchased the community hall on Sawtell’s First Avenue, added some wooden tiered seating and a projection room, and the Sawtell Cinema was born. For three generations the Sawtell Cinema remained in the Brissett Family. The cinema has faced many disasters. When the original building was destroyed by a minicyclone in 1955 and when floods damaged the cinema in 1989 and again in 2009, the community stepped forward to support their local icon. A challenge that the old Sawtell Cinema faced was the cost of going “digital”… Will the new cinema be digital, and what does that mean? Yes, the refurbished cinema will be fully
al When the origin as w g buildin minidestroyed by a and when 55 19 in e cyclon the floods damaged d again an 89 cinema in 19 munity in 2009, the com d to stepped forwar cal icon .” lo r ei th t or pp su
“
digital, and we will be adding an extra screen. These are some of the things necessary to ensure that the cinema will run as a viable business in the precarious world of cinema. How will the new cinema be different, both structurally and aesthetically? Structurally, the building will remain the same. It is a heritage-listed building, and the team has been working closely with Coffs Harbour City Council to ensure we protect and preserve its cultural assets. Thankfully, there will be inside toilets and we will be adding a bistro/ café in the foyer. As mentioned, there will be two cinemas, one larger in the same position as the current cinema and a smaller 38-seat cinema. Sawtell has become quite the happening place, with Hello Sawtell, FRANKS, 1st Ave Gallery and various other new cosmopolitan additions being introduced to already trendy First Ave. What will the new cinema contribute to First Ave? The closure of the Sawtell Cinema has definitely left a hole in the cultural life of the Coffs Coast, and it has been sorely missed. The refurbished cinema will embrace the artdeco style and cultural heritage of the current building and provide a funky and stylish venue
for the community to connect and be inspired. How long until you anticipate the doors being swung open? If all goes to plan, great movies will be playing at the Sawtell Cinema by Christmas. All the latest news on cinema progress will be posted to our website: sawtellcinema.com.au or like Save Sawtell Cinema on Facebook. If we were wanting to get behind the project, how can we get involved? If you want to stay in the know or offer your help, go to our website: sawtellcinema.com. au and register for our mailing list. We’ll be sending out email notices as things develop and will be letting the community know how they can help. You either love them or hate them … Are the old seats staying or going? My heart loves them, but my butt hates them! The seats will be going. As the saying goes, there are three keys for a successful cinema: screen, sound and seats. Stay tuned for our crowd funding campaign… Where to connect: sawtellcinema.com.au facebook.com/sawtellcinema www.sawtellcinema.com.au
coffs coast focus.
23
focusinterview.
Justin Gilbert’s enterprise started with the need to control weeds on his Dorrigo property in 1999, so he put 15 goats on to the land. Today, he has 2,000 goats and a thriving goat meat butchery business based on the Dorrigo Plateau.
I
n just six years, Justin has grown his business from selling to the farmers market to selling his goats’ meat products to 30 Woolworths stores across New South Wales and South East Queensland, with a further 10 stores to be supplied in the next few weeks, including in the Australian Capital Territory. Justin is a wonderful success story! A fifth generation farmer, take me back to the beginning … In approximately what year did your family buy the land in Dorrigo, what did they originally farm, and how has the property developed? My family obtained the property around 1890. Over the five generations that we have owned the land, many different agricultural products have been farmed on our property, from cattle, horses, vegetables, aquaculture and now goats. Your enterprise, Booma Boer, began with the need to control weeds on your property in 1999 by purchasing 15 goats and popping them on to your land. Today you have 2,000 goats and a thriving goat meat butchery business based in Dorrigo. When and why did you commence operation? We initially started as a goat stud, and our animals were then sold for breeding stock. We then had so much enquiry from the domestic market asking for goat meat. So, in 2009 we decided to start to sell and market our own goat meat products, “Booma Boer 24 coffs coast focus.
It is quite amazing to e have think how far w ys da e th om come fr s er rm fa at t en sp we e th g in markets battl early ry ve d an elements to ng morning s, hopi and y da od go a have t.” uc od sell lots of pr
“
Goat Meat”. Back in 2009, who were your first customers, what types of order would they place, and from those days did you ever imagine you’d be in this position? In 2009 our first customers were at the farmer markets; our very first was Armidale Farmers Market, then we went to Dorrigo and Coffs Harbour. We then went around to local butchers on the Mid North Coast and to Sydney. As we became more well known and popular, we started supplying restaurants and some wholesalers. It was always a dream of ours to expand and supply bigger stockists, but it is still very surreal to see our products on the shelves at Woolworths. It is quite amazing to think how far we have come from the days we spent at farmers markets battling the elements and very early mornings, hoping to have a good day and sell lots of product. How did you transition from this to being stocked in 30 Woolwoorths stores? How did this opportunity present itself, and how has this changed your business in an operational sense? There has been a lot of knocking on doors trying to get our product into a bigger stockist. We had crossed paths a few times with Woolworths, and we were then able to
reach an agreement. Transitioning into Woolworths took over 12 months, during which time a lot of planning, paperwork and preparation was needed. We had to establish and build a new processing facility, which needed to be built and logistics to be worked out. It really was a lot of hard work and determination (which is still required). How many staff make up your team, and what does a day in the office look like for you? Which of your family are involved in the business? We currently employee 17 people, from butchers, meat packers, farm hands, managers and delivery personnel. My day usually consists of being on the farm until lunch time, then in the office for a ridiculous amount of phone calls and continuous paperwork. If needed, I will also help out in the butchery. As Booma Boer Goats is a family business, many employees are family, including my wife, both parents, my sister, my niece, nephew and cousin. Describe the property: what is the size, how much land are the goats raised on, and is the butchery element of the business situated on your property or is this at a separate location?
The property is surrounded by National Parks outside of Dorrigo - a pristine area. The property is 1,300 acres, of which the goats are raised on approx. 750 acres. The butcher shop/facility is located in the township of Dorrigo. Do the goats produce milk for goats cheese, or do you only use the goats for meat? We have a licensed diary on our property. The produced goats’ milk is used mainly for cheese. This is only very new for us. What type of packaging do you use, and how important is marketing and branding? All our products are branded with the Booma Boer logo. Marketing is extremely important for our business growth, as it differentiates us from wild caught goats. It is said that you have the best tasting goat in the region and you have many chef fans, including Rustic Table Woolgoolga’s owner … How important is diet and ensuring the goats “eat clean”? We pride ourselves on producing a high quality meat product. A goat’s diet is important and consists of grass, which is important to the quality of the meat. Also, there must be enough roughage for digestion of the high quality grass. We grade our goats based on age, meat and fat coverage. If they don’t meet the required specifications, they don’t get sold. Thanks Justin.
Reg Latter ELECTRICAL COFFS CONSERVATORIUM Hitting the right notes in 2015 The Conservatorium has lined up a huge year to inspire, educate and entertain Coffs Harbour. New specialist teachers have come on board, increasing the list to an impressive 27 teachers of a huge range of instruments and voice styles.
T
hroughout the year the Conservatorium will be holding student performances, a Sunday Chamber Music Series, workshops with international and national visiting artists and special events. All details will be announced on the website as programs are released, and members of the public can be informed of upcoming events by signing up for the mailing list on the home page. Highlights of the year include the Coffs Harbour Guitar Festival, which will take place from 5 – 7 June in collaboration with the Coffs Harbour Music Society and Southern Cross University. If you play the guitar, this event will be your mecca! Visiting artists include the highly acclaimed Swedish classical guitarist Johannes Moller, fingerstyle and jazz genius Adam Miller, and experimental contemporary solo guitarist Matthew Marshall from New Zealand. The festival will run for 3 action packed days and participants will be offered workshops, performances by each of the solo artists, and the formation a guitar orchestra that will perform at CHEC on the final day. In the October school holidays the sound of violins, violas, cellos and basses will fill every corner of Coffs Harbour at the Coffs Harbour String School, which will attract teachers, performers and students from Sydney, Canberra and the entire mid north coast region. New instrumental teachers at the Conservatorium include pianist Leanne Swanson and violinist Zillah Hawley, who are combining
with Trish O’Brien to form a piano trio that will become the basis of a new resident ensemble at the Conservatorium. Their first performance is on Sunday 19th April and the program will include the famous Dumky Trio by Dvorak. Leanne Swanson has attained her Masters in Performance at Griffith University and has toured Australia and New Zealand as performer and accompanist. Zillah Hawley studied at the Royal College of Music in London and has 20 years of experience as a professional violinist. She will be directing a new group for young string players, The Young Academy. Music Therapy is now being offered at the Conservatorium with the appointment of Hannah Rowland, who recently attained her Masters in Music Therapy at the University of Queensland. Music Therapy sessions are being offered for children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities, and as an adjunct to a wide range of therapies. Ensembles are thriving at the Conservatorium and unite young musicians across the region. The Decatones are preparing to be featured performers at Harmony Day, and The Academy are performing at the end of term with the Italian Opera Tenor, Aldo di Toro. New ensembles being formed this year include The Young Academy, a Jazz Ensemble directed by Phill Stitt, and a Big Band for adult brass and wind players, directed by Chris Frater. Please visit our website www.coffscon.org.au and sign up for the mailing list to be informed of all upcoming events.
Reg Latter Electrical has been providing electrical installations and maintenance services - since 1979 - and is as always committed to delivering the best service to our customers, employing highly trained and qualified staff that are on call 24/7, for your domestic, commercial or industrial property, which will be attended to in a timely manner with repairs carried out effectively day or night.
Vulcan, Solarhart, Edwards, Chromogen, Aquamax, Apricus, and repairs to other makes and models, tank replacements, electric and solar hot water systems. TV antenna installations and repairs. Data/phone/communications - Austel accredited open registered cablers and installers.
Reg Latter Electrical offers the following services -
Thermal imaging and reporting - preventative
Level 1 Service Provider - Accreditation No 3450 providing all of your network infrastructure requirements within the Essential Energy area.
Safety Workplace Standards RCD Testing and test
maintenance. and tag services.
Level 2 Service Provider - Accreditation No 3141 “A” Grade Level 2 Service Providers in the Essential Energy area.
Employing over 30 highly qualified staff, who are
Hot water repairs - warranty agents for Rheem,
your project on schedule.
committed to maintaining the highest quality of workmanship and site safety, allows us to complete
coffs coast focus.
25
focusinterview.
amber carbury
AMBER CARBURY
T
Amber Carbury is an artist who lives in Valla. Amber expresses her interest in patterns, colour and nature and her work revolves around the human figure, with an emphasis on female form. This year Amber will concentrate on exhibiting, and she will also focus on the piece she plans to enter in the Archibald Prize.
ell me about your childhood ... Where did you grow up, and what do you recall as being your earliest creative memories? I was born in Macksville in 1985, but grew up 45 minutes inland from Taree in a beautiful place called Bobin. I grew up riding horses, playing music with friends and drawing to pass the time. My earliest creative memories would be collecting magazines and posters of favourite bands and drawing faces from them that I felt had character. Whilst I was interested in drawing from magazines through my teenage years, I also felt extremely influenced by my time spent riding my horse. It wasn’t until I left home and moved to the city for studies that my love and passion for nature began to play an 26 coffs coast focus.
important role in my work. of the best years of my life so far. The What formal training teachers were practicing artists, and have you had, and their passion for the arts shone what do you like or through into the classrooms. t My earlies even dislike the The schedule was full-time, e creativ be ld ou most about the with classes ranging from w memories es in az ag m g journey through painting, life drawing, in collect urite vo fa of s er st po your studies? photography, printmaking, and ing aw dr d an s nd I completed an sculpture etc. When I ba th at I faces from them Advanced Fine Arts then went on to study at r.” felt had charac te Diploma at Hunter St Newcastle University, I have TAFE Fine Arts College to say I was sorely disappointed and then went on to about the atmosphere as a whole. complete my Bachelor of I personally found it to be a lifeless Fine Art at Newcastle University. and lonely place coming from such a The three years spent at Newcastle Fine passionate learning environment. Arts College are up there with some Your work has profound effects on people.
“
Describe the techniques you use - and how have you developed as an artist from your earlier days with the brush? My paintings evolve from many layers of brushwork. Over the years I have noticed that the way in which I apply the paint has become more defined and purposeful. One of my past teachers, Bruce Rowland, used to say to me: “Mix your paint on the palette, not on the board”, and I have found myself doing this unconsciously now to the point where my paintings (when you look up close) are made up from hundreds of dots. I am now at a stage where I have endless ideas for my work; the paintings begin as just that - an idea in my head that evolves and ends up as an image I could not have foreseen. You’re relatively new to the Coffs Coast.
focusinterview.
Why did you move here, and who makes up After a career in retail, you have recently your home life? decided to take the plunge and paint fullI have travelled to Bellingen to visit friends time. What brought on this decision? from a young age and always said how I would After finishing my studies, I worked full-time love to live there one day,and I suppose I just in retail in what felt like an endless rut - a cycle made it happen. I now live here with my to pay the bills. Although I enjoyed partner and sausage dog, and I’m many aspects of the job, my main loving it. It’s great to be part of goal in life has always been such a friendly, supportive to paint full-time. Thanks community. models e Th to the NEIS scheme, I Where is your “space”, paint have I was able to take the and what feelings do ays been people w al first steps into being a you get when you I I know, a person me enter your studio? so full-time artist, and I will in connect with al ve re to I live at Valla Beach, t an never look back. w way and .” ht lig and my studio looks r he ot You have won many in an out into bush land with accolades; which means the sounds of the ocean. the most to you and why? I honestly cannot put into Each achievement is worth words how I feel when I am as much to me as the last. Whilst I working in my studio. I have been will always strive to achieve my best, the looking forward to this time in my life for subjective nature of the art world often leaves years and now that I am in it, it just takes my me wondering. I feel that to achieve great things breath away.
“
A lot of your work revolves around human figures, with an emphasis on female form. What are your art ideas? I have always felt that the human form in general is beautiful and mesmerising to look at. The skin tones, curves and emotion in the human body inspire and capture my interest on a daily basis. I find that the female form holds a lot of light yet strong emotion that I can relate to. The models I paint have always been people I know, a person I connect with in some way and want to reveal in another light. With the use of vibrant colour and intricate patterning, I aim to place the model in a mystical world - a world that reflects their character.
sometimes you just have to listen to yourself and keep going, no matter what’s happening around you. I have endless lessons to learn about painting, and I appreciate all the support and honest feedback that is given to me. What goals have you set for the next twelve months? Paint, paint, paint! I am working on my next show, which will revolve around the wonderful, inspirational women in my life. Whilst working on this show I will also concentrate on works for competitions such as this year’s Archibald Prize. Thanks Amber. coffs coast focus.
27
AMERICAN PORK RIBs, CRISPY SKIN P O R K B E L LY, a n d S T U F F e d C H IC K E N BREAST SUPREME from the plantation hotel.
download our eat. dining guide for iPhone & Android www.focusmag.com.au/eat
28 coffs coast focus.
Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill
Spinifex Restaurant
“The best view in town”. NEW MENU IS FINALLY HERE. Now that the holiday season is over and done with, it’s time to launch our new menu for 2015. Multi award winning head chef Sandy Phillips and his kitchen team have some very exciting new dishes and a tasty spin on some old favourites also. A separate menu for lunch and dinner, some great new vegetarian options and kids’ menu. For those wanting to try something different, the dukkah spiced Barramundi, the duck confit or the warm crocodile salad are dishes not to be missed. FANTASTIC NEW FISHOS SIGNATURE SEAFOOD PLATTER (24 hours’ notice) Weekly Specials: $7.50 weekday lunchtime meals Wed - Ribs & Trivia Thur - Surf & Turf Fri - 80 meat tray raffles.
The Coast Hotel is the perfect environment to cater for a variety of functions, be it birthday parties, work social functions or charity events. With indoor and outdoor private function rooms, The Coast Hotel provides a high standard of quality for all our guests.
Head Chef Sandy Phillips.
We also offer an extensive finger food menu from our award winning Spinifex restaurant to cater for all your function requirements. Music and atmosphere are all key ingredients to the success of your function.
Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour 6652 3007 www.coasthotel.com.au
1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour 6652 1534 www.coffsfishos.com.au 7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30am and 5:30pm. and breakfast Wednesday and Sunday from 7:30am.
Lunch: 12pm - 6pm. Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.
the hoey moey
beachstone café
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 beer garden, open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottleshop and TAB facilities.
Beachstone Café is the ultimate location to catch up with friends and family, whether you are after a quick coffee with a scrumptious homemade cake, or a hearty breakfast or lunch! With blackboard specials changing daily as well as a fresh new autumn menu, a visit to Beachstone will never leave you disappointed!
Bring the family down for an affordable and nutritious dinner. Choose from our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS from Monday to Sunday or if you prefer something a little more fancy, you can’t go past our Daily Blackboard Specials. Don’t miss! DONAVON FRANKENREITER performing LIVE on April 1st from 9pm. It will be a night to be remembered - it’s where you’d rather be!
84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 7 days. Mon - Thurs and Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri and Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 8:30pm.
Head Chef Craig Clarke.
Head Chef David Ricketts.
Our St Patrick’s Day dinner on Friday 13th March is fast filling up, so be sure to reserve your table today! With an array of traditional Irish dishes accompanied by some fantastic live entertainment, this night is the one not to miss!
Owner Aileen Chen.
2 Beach Way, North Sapphire 6653 6188 Monday 10am - 2pm (during school holiday & Christmas holiday) Tue - Thur, 9am - 4pm, Fri - Sun, 8am - 4pm. coffs coast focus.
29
morfish cafĂŠ
finz on the beach
Morfish - more than just great fish! We have a great selection of salads, pastas, burgers and of course, great seafood - all cooked to order. We offer an extensive breakfast and lunch menu, along with weekly, chef inspired specials. Our sauces and dressings are made on the premises and are all gluten free, so most dietary requirements are catered for. We also have a selection of cakes which are complemented by our locally roasted coffee. Drop in and let our chefs do the cooking for you. All meals are also available take-away, so why not call ahead, pre-order, and we will have it waiting for you.
Summer brings with it longer days, warmer nights, more social events and time with family ... at Aanuka Beach Resort it also brings an exciting new summer menu designed to encompass all that is summer. Select from share plates, summer sliders with seasonal toppings, delicious fresh local seafood and light snacks; enjoy all this on our Casay decks with a cocktail or glass of wine matched to your dish. Owners David & Jayne Hagarty.
(02) 6652 7555 to make a reservation, or book online with us at www.dimmi.com.au.
Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort, 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour 6650 2400 www.aanuka.com.au
Main Entrance Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour 6652 8588
Open from 6pm, 7 days a week.
7 days. Mon - Wed & Fri - 7am - 5pm, Thurs -7am -7pm, Sat - 7am - 4:30pm, and Sun - 7:30- 3:30pm.
pasfields restaurant BAr deck Pasfields caters for all in a stunning setting. Offering casual, kids, set & fine dining menus’. Having a special occasion in 2015, let us tailor make a day to remember for you. With our own chair covers, sashes, backdrops and centrepieces, just one appointment and its done. Email enquiries to admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au. Weekend dates booking out fast. Open Tues- Sat (large functions anytime). Bring this advert in and receive a bottle of Habitat sparkling or wine with a dozen oysters for just $50 (valid until 31st March 2015).
Chef Kim Robson.
675 Pacific Highway, Korora 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au Tues - Thurs from 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday. (large functions anytime).
30 coffs coast focus.
The Casay Bar & Restaurant is open 7 days a week; please call Aanuka Beach Resort
horizons restaurant & bar Try our Dinner Menu. Be tempted with a starter of Baked figs filled with blue cheese wrapped in prosciutto served with trio melon salad, followed by Beef eye fillet with char grilled garlic yabbies, truffled potato puree, buttered green beans & port wine reduction. Remember to leave room for dessert with the always popular Coconut & raspberry bombe Alaska with kiwi fruit & mint sauce, yum!! Join us for lunch! THE OC LUNCH DEAL Enjoy a glass house wine, domestic beer or soft drink, your meal and espresso or tea at Horizons Restaurant & Bar overlooking the pool and taking in the coastal views. Guests are able to dine alfresco on the terrace or in air conditioned comfort, all for $23.50pp. 11:30am - 2:30pm, 7 days. Bookings preferred.
Clinton Hunter Head Chef.
Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.
Parmigiana, topped with Napoli Sauce, Leg Ham & Melted Cheese
plantation hotel
Surf Club Restaurant & Bar
Parmy Night: Australians love their parmigianas, and the Plantation Hotel is no exception. The Chicken Parmigiana is a staple on our à la carte menu but now to add to our weekly meal options, we have introduced “Friday Night, Parmy Night”. Locally sourced and hand crumbed chicken, veal or pork schnitzel, topped with our own tangy napoli sauce, juicy leg ham and melted cheese. Complemented with a schooner of Great Northern or a glass of Wolf Blass Chardonnay, it’s a taste sensation you can’t resist. “Friday Night, Parmy Night” is from 5:30 to 8:30pm and at just $14.90 per parmy special, you just can’t go past the Plantation Bar & Grill for Delicious Meals and Sensational Value.
Seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, with stunning, absolute oceanfront views. For lunch come and enjoy our King Prawn Salad, with citrus, mesclun, avocado, macadamia nuts and Gay’s amazing mango mint dressing. Our specials board changes daily, always featuring fresh local seafood and delicious dishes of the day. Conferences, wedding receptions, parties and celebrations. Please join us.
Chef John Marshall.
Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan.
Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com
88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour. 6652 3855 www.plantationhotel.com.au Lunch: 12pm to 2:30. Dinner: 5:30 to 8:30, 7 days a week.
Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch.
Semi cured salmon, tomato and red onion salad with saffron aioli
zulu's restaurant & bar
flooded gums restaurant
Things have warped again at Zulus.
With the cooler months almost upon us, keep your eyes peeled for the Autumn Flooded Gums menu launching soon. There is no better place to be, as when the sun goes down, the Flooded Gums Restaurant is transformed into an intimate fine dining experience - the best Coffs Harbour has to offer. Flooded Gums have received “1 Glass” (Wine Spectator Magazine Wine List of the Year Awards - only property in Regional NSW to be awarded “1 Glass”). A wine list featuring age release and current vintages from acclaimed producers in the greatest regions; the potential for serious food and wine matching is limitless.
Our 2015 menu features some unique twists on some old favourites. For example, our fish fingers (as pictured) served with a unique set of custards ... yeah ... Cybermen then serve you dessert.
Head Chef Joel McCulla.
27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway) 6652 1588 www.zuluscoffs.com Breakfast: Monday - Friday, 7am - 9am. Dinner: Monday - Saturday, 6pm - late.
Head Chef Michael Urquhart.
North Bonville Road, Bonville 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au Open 7 days; bookings essential.
coffs coast focus.
31
focusinterview. with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s
WH
AT ’ S I N
PECAN
Nothing says autumn is here like the arrival of the pecan. Whilst considered a nut, scientifically it’s actually a fruit. Whichever way you classify it, it is tasty! Before you start getting concerned about the kilojoules involved in consuming an entire pecan pie, with cream and caramel sauce ... drool ... consider the benefits of the pecan. Firstly, it’s one of the greatest sources of Vitamin E, so that tasty slice of pie is actually a beauty regime. Also being rich in B Group Vitamins and antiproliferatives means it will provide your body good healthy energy whilst combating DNA binding carcinogens. So join me as autumn settles in, by partaking in the pecan pie healthy eating regime. (Not completely ... just saying.)
MICHAEL KING
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
Fine Drop with Philip Caldicott from Oak Street Food & Wine, Bellingen
finep dr
Sommelier, Oak Street Food & Wine AN INTERESTING PHENOMENON SEEMS TO HAVE OCCURRED IN THE WINE DRINKING WORLD, ACCORDING TO MY EXPERIENCES AT OAK STREET FOOD & WINE IN BELLINGEN. For all of the previous decade or more that I have worked in restaurants in Coffs Harbour, the number one selling white wine-bythe-glass has been Sauvignon Blanc, preferably from Marlborough in New Zealand. Now, without question, the go to white variety is PG, Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris - same grape variety, different winemaking styles. I was of the firm belief that the popularity of Sauvignon Blanc was unassailable, which goes to show that there is no predicting the whims of fashion. Personally, I prefer the Pinot Gris style to the Grigio, especially as a food wine. Typically the fruit is picked riper, and the wine tends to show golden pear, citrus, spice and lychee aromas, lovely silky mouthfeel and a flavour profile featuring honeyed richness, balanced by moderate acidity. For us at Oak Street, the style stands up well with a wide range of dishes, from Grilled Fish Fillet with warm salad of Prawns, Zucchini and Caponata, to Confit Pork Belly, Cauliflower Puree and Pickled Cabbage. We carry a good example of the ever present Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, but find that our Adelaide Hills Pinot Gris is outselling it by a significant margin. For an outstanding example of Australian Pinot Gris, try to get your hands on a bottle of Scorpo, from Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. This is an extremely silky and complex wine, showing the best of the Gris traits, with pear, spice, white floral aromas, delicious mouthfeel and cleansing acidity to finish.
32 coffs coast focus.
recipe
peach, WATERCRESS & GOATS CHEESE Salad Ingredients (serves 4) 6 ripe peaches 2 cups of fresh watercress leaves ½ cup walnuts Approximately ¼ cup of really good soft goats cheese (I LOVE Meredith Dairy Goats Feta) The juice of 1 big orange ¼ lemon 1/3 cup of good quality extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste
I am so happy to be sharing this recipe; it’s one of my all time favourites. To me this salad is a celebration of summer; it’s super easy, healthy, and colourful, and the taste might just make you a little weak at the knees (be warned!)
Method Start by preparing the dressing - place the orange juice in a saucepan, bring it to a gentle boil and reduce the juice down so that it thickens into a tangy glaze; this will take about 5 minutes for the juice to halve in volume. In the meantime, get a nice big, flat platter or plate and cut the peaches into quarters, remove the stone, and randomly scatter the peaches on the platter. Next, sprinkle the watercress over the peaches. Crumble the goats cheese and walnuts over the top - make sure everything is nice and evenly spread out, so whenever someone has a mouthful they get a bit of everything! Now back to the dressing; add the juice of the lemon to the orange glaze and whisk in the olive oil. Spoon the dressing over the salad, finish with a little salt and pepper, and you’re ready to rock! This salad is amazing just by itself, but I love to eat it with some good sprouted wholegrain bread and tahini. It also goes great with BBQ chicken breast. Wholly Human is a holistic health education business running regular cooking and meditation courses: www.whollyhuman.com.au
JETTY THEATRE UPCOMING SHOWS
Origin Kebabs Enver and Tanyth Kapukaya are the local husband and wife team operating Origin Kebabs in Coffs Harbour. While Origin Kebabs is a well-known franchise, we are independently owned and operated. Familiar faces to many, especially on the soccer fields, we are about to celebrate two years of trading in the upstairs food court of Coffs Central after a successful 10 years of trading in the old food court as Kebab Zone. We love to use as much local produce as we can, and Coffs Harbour certainly has plenty to offer! Our emphasis is on offering fantastic, fresh food with the best service in town. We will have you coming back for more. We serve lamb and chicken kebabs, as well as a range of jacket potatoes, nachos, gozleme and baklava. We make our own handmade falafels, garlic sauce and hummus. You can taste the difference! Did you know we also have a variety of options that are gluten free? Like a bit of spice? Come and try our special Turkish hot chillis! We also offer a small size kebab as well. Proudly offering the best kebabs in NSW! Like us on Facebook: Origin Kebabs Coffs Harbour for the latest specials.
COFFS EVENT CENTRE HIRE everything you need for events, parties, functions, promotions, dinners, weddings, sporting events and more. Caring, expert advice and solutions - FREE one-on-one expert help with your planning needs - just ring us on (02) 6658 0071, or email us at email@coffseventcentre.com. Thirty years’ experience supplying quality balloons to the Coffs Coast - 15 years in audio visual - 15 years in event presentation and decorating. Experts in our field, delivering personalised service. We are not just a website with a mobile number - we have a showroom and trained staff. WOW FUNCTIONS - event and promotion theme decorating. Weddings - ceremony and reception decorating. AV CORPORATE - PA hire (best range), sound, lighting, projection and more. Video your event and stream it live to friends interstate and overseas. BALLOONS PLUS - everybody loves our balloons - the best quality in Coffs. The elegant decorative additions to add pizzazz to any event. Visit us at the Coffs Event Centre, 30 Lawson Crescent - it is best to ring first and make an appointment, so we can make time to show you around - (02) 6658 0071.
Make the most of March at the Jetty Memorial Theatre. Enjoy all the action of Australia’s most respected short film festival Flickerfest and join us for the launch of the Multicultural Harmony Festival. Flickerfest - Friday 13 and Saturday 14 March Flickerfest, Australia’s most respected short film festival, is back in Coffs, with two separate programs of the best of Australian and international short films for 2015! Flickerfest hand picks only the very best, most innovative, provocative and hugely entertaining shorts - all guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and gasp with delight! Multicultural Harmony Festival Launch Evening - Saturday 21 March Join us for a vibrant and uplifting evening to mark the launch of Coffs Harbour’s annual multicultural celebration, The Harmony Festival. The launch evening will present the Colourfest Multicultural Film Festival and some of our amazing local community talent ahead of the Festival to be held at The Regional Botanic Garden, Coffs Harbour, on Sunday 22 March. Exciting Shows in April and May - on Sale Now April brings theatre from CHATS, with Mum’s the Word Teenagers, a funny show with a lot of heart. May brings the Jetty Theatre Touring Presentation, Blue Love, from the outstanding Shaun Parker, which mixes dance, music, film and song to create “so much fun it can’t possibly be good for you” - Sydney Morning Herald. See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office noon - 4pm, Tues to Fri: (02) 6652 8088. 24th INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
FLiCKERFEST 2015 Australia’s most respected short film festival is back in Coffs!
Coffs Harbour City Council presents…
LAUNCH EVENING
Join us for a vibrant and uplifting evening to mark the launch of Coffs Harbour’s annual multicultural celebration, The Harmony Festival.
Friday 13 & Saturday 14 March 8pm
Saturday 21 March • 6.30pm Gold Coin Entry
BLUE LOVE Love is so “Blue much fun it can’t possibly be MUM’S THE WORD good for you. ”
CHATS presents…
The Mums are back – and their babies have grown into Teenagers!
Wednesday 8th – Sunday 19th April
SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
Saturday 2nd May Proudly supported by
Box office hours Tuesday to Friday 12 noon – 4pm jettytheatre.com | phone 02 6652 8088 jet email: jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre facebo
coffs coast focus.
33
focuseditorial.
360 CRUCIAL MUSIC, VILLAGE SOUNDS AND MUSIC FEEDS PRESENT
Help coffs ambassadors CELEBRATE A MILESTONE
AT T H E P L A N TAT I O N H O T E L
ACCLAIMED AUSTRALIAN RAPPER 360 IS THRILLED TO BE COMING TO THE PLANTATION HOTEL FOR ONE BIG NIGHT, WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL. RISING PERTH STAR COIN BANKS AND MELBOURNE’S LEVA ARE MAIN SUPPORTS FOR THE TOUR, WITH KALE KICKING THINGS OFF IN ALL NORTHERN NSW SHOWS.
W
hether it’s on world festival stages or at his own headline shows, seeing Sixty live is an
Australian public and music industry alike for bringing Australian hip hop to the forefront of the musical landscape. Following on from 2012’s Falling And Flying, the doubleplatinum smash album that resulted in Sixty’s meteoric electrifying experience, rise to fame, his latest and this April and May offering, the bold and A PE TH E SOU N D SC marks an incredible passionate Gold’S N A TO A YOU N G M chance for Coffs selling Utopia, is ND LI FE W H O FOU Harbour fans to the soundscape to G IN H IM SE LF G ROW IS witness it up close a young man’s life H G N U P A N D FACI IC BL and personal. 360 who found himself PU E TH D EM O N S IN H IT will be performing W growing up and G N LI EY E, D EA ED G ED Eall the hits from his facing his demons in BL U O D TH E E” M FA F latest album Utopia, the public eye, dealing O D R O SW including, Price Of Fame with the double-edged (feat. Gossling), Live It Up sword of fame, the perils (feat. PEZ), the game-changer of flying too high and the Sixavelli (feat. Lunar C), and more. vulnerability it causes behind Touted as “the country’s hottest and closed doors. most controversial-crossover star” by The Ticket sale information below. Get on down Sydney Morning Herald, 360 has rapidly earnt to The Plantation Hotel for a night you won't himself vast amounts of respect amongst the forget!
“
the plug!
34 coffs coast focus.
Wednesday 22 April at the Plantation Hotel, Coffs Harbour. Ticket sales from The Plantation Hotel - Ph 1800 076 445 or purchase online plantationhotel.com.au I www.360music.com.au
Council’s Coffs Ambassadors Tour Guides
with visitors and residents alike,” said Coffs
are marking their five year anniversary - so
Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight.
why not help them celebrate by taking a
“A great deal of that success is due to the
tour? Since the free tours began in 2010,
volunteer Coffs Ambassador Tour Guides,
around 2,500 people have enjoyed the
whose love of their own corner of paradise
unique experience of seeing Coffs Harbour’s
is the foundation and highlight of every tour.
headlands, beaches, bushland, gardens and
I can’t think of a better way to thank them
rainforests through the eyes of a passionate
and celebrate this milestone than by booking
local.
a tour. There’s always something new to
“The tours have proved to be a real hit
discover.”
focusinterview.
YOUR HEALTHY LIVING AND LIFESTYLE STORE YOUR HEALTHY LIVING AND LIFE STYLE STORE IS THE BRAND NEW HOME OF TWO SEPARATE BUSINESSES, ME-HEALTHY FARM, OWNED BY SAM MIHELFFY AND COLOUR ME BEETROOT, OWNED BY JANE BUCHANAN, PROVIDING A ONE STOP SHOP FOR THE PEOPLE OF ORARA VALLEY. AT THEIR RECENT OPENING IT WAS A PACKED HOUSE, WITH THE WHOLE COMMUNITY COMING TO SHOW SUPPORT.
S
M: We may recognise you as the owner of Me-Healthy Farm, a regular store holder down at Thursday’s Growers Market … What is your background in farming, where is your farm, and what do you grow? The Coffs Harbour Growers Market stole my heart over six years ago, and that is where this all began. Me-Healthy Farm sells chemical free custard apples at the market that are grown on our property, along with pecans, macadamia nut trees, avocados and a selection of citrus. JB: What is your background? I moved to the valley from Balmain in Sydney for the first time in 2001 with my husband, seeking a more relaxed life/country tree change. As life would have it, work called us back to Sydney several years later, but there was always that yearning to return - and finally we did seven years ago. SM/JB: What is “Your Healthy Living and Lifestyle Store” by Me-Healthy Farm and Colour Me Beetroot,and how was the idea born? Just as the name suggests, we both shared the passion to create a space in the community that would benefit our valley! Coramba is a central hub of the Orara Valley region; there had been a void that needed to be filled. Everyone who lives in the Orara Valley has needed to commute to town for their everyday goods. We wanted to seize the opportunity to bring a store that encompasses a broad spectrum of lifestyle needs in a one stop shop. SM/JB: So why did you decide to join forces? At what moment did you both think, “Let’s do this”? JB: Whilst I had dreamed about having a shop in the building, it was Sam that was offered the space; I will always be grateful for the day she approached me about our future together. The moment we walked through the door of the old bank premises, we just knew we could create something really special that would be of value to the community - and we both thought, “Let’s do it!” SM/JB: What inspired the space? It could seem
like an odd combination mixing produce with stationery - yet somehow it works? Please expand on this … The inspiration for the space really came from the building itself: its integrity, its aesthetics, its charm all My love of contributed to how we planned gardening and the design for the interior arni ng enjoyment of le helps layout. The space was cleared ow gr new ways to of all the remnants of the ith my me to connect w old bank - even the garden! overing customers; disc rbs an d he We hunted and gathered for Store is the home new medicinal g tin ea of 12 months, collecting from of two separate the benefits es can here and there to build on the businesses, Mecertain vege ta bl .” concept we both imagined; we Healthy Farm owned benefit all of us are very proud of what we have by Sam Mihelffy and created. Colour Me Beetroot owed The space was naturally divided into by Jane Buchanan; we work three separate areas: as partners, nurturing each other’s Market to Market Room business. This is the home of fresh, spray free local fruit SM: I am mindful of the way our world is and veg, honey and free range eggs. Freshly made changing and believe we all need to start eating juices in a jar are available, along with kombucha, home grown herbs and veggies. My love of nut cheese and sauerkraut in the fridge. Also gardening and enjoyment of learning new ways offering a whole selection of activated panty to grow helps me to connect with my customers; goods to take home. discovering new medicinal herbs and the benefits Heart of the Store of eating certain vegetables can benefit all of us. I Naturally you’re drawn to enter this space, really want to empower everyone to become selfwhich encompasses a selection of Australian sufficient and live within our means. designed homewares, textiles, stationery, crystals, JB: My strengths really lie in my passions for handmade jewellery, soy candles, books and presentation, organisation, visualising, inspiring garden giftware displayed in an eclectic homely and a love of sharing with others. Through manner. these strengths my creatively shines through Back of the Store my love of colour, design, timeless handmade As you reach the rear of the store, you can feel crafts and whole nutritional foods pour out and the Coramba breeze as two glass French doors inspire others. My passions propel me forward open onto a deck dotted with a selection of with the yearning desire to experience, touch, local culinary and medicinal herbs, seedlings and learn, educate and encourage others to support grafted fruit trees to provide you with sustainable Australian artisans and designers. living choices. SM/JB: Why is Coramba so special to you SM/JB: What talents do you both bring to the both? table? Who has what strength; who plays It’s not just Coramba; it’s the whole Orara Valley. what role? We are one big community that works and lives Together we have managed to combine our together; we have such beautiful, magical, diverse strengths from concept to completion; we are two natural surroundings coupled with a loving, giving very individual personalities that have entwined and supporting community spirit. together using each other’s talents to enhance our We live in a very special place, with a whole lot overall vision. Your Healthy Living and Lifestyle more to offer than just our shop, and we are only
“
20 minutes from the centre of Coffs Harbour. JB: You are passionate about Australian designed textiles and stationery; when did this become an interest of yours? Colour and design, especially Australian Design, has long been a passion of mine and one I have wanted to develop and pursue a career in for long time - but time just wasn’t right. I have completed several house renovations and creative projects over the years and finished the massive task a year ago of designing and renovating my current home. I finally felt the time was right to fulfil my dream to study colour and design; I am currently studying for my diploma in design through the Colour and Design Institute. JB: How did you come up with the urban creative name Colour Me Beetroot? Colour Me Beetroot came about a couple of years ago when I was creating my Instagram page. I wanted a name the embodied my love and passion of colour, design and wholefoods. I love beetroot: it’s vibrancy and tactile, earthy flavour. My favourite line out of a movie is “Colour me happy” from Pretty Woman … the two loves just worked, and Colour Me Beetroot was born! SM/JB: What do you hope this space will bring to people, and why would you encourage people to come and take a look? Inspiration, a sense of community, a sense of pride and tourism to our Coffs Harbour hinterland. We want locals to have a place of pride to bring friends, relatives and foreign visitors and add us to their day trip. Explore our local natural treasures and patrons surrounding local businesses. We encourage everyone to check out our store; we can promise you there is nothing like it around. Thank you Ladies. coffs coast focus.
35
focusinterview
COFFS HARBOUR
ALPINI GROUP
36 coffs coast focus.
focusinterview. by Fran Stephenson
THE ALPINI ARE THE ELITE MOUNTAIN WARFARE SOLDIERS OF THE ITALIAN ARMY. FORMED IN 1872, THEY CURRENTLY HAVE SOLDIERS SERVING IN AFGHANISTAN AND ARE THE OLDEST, STILL ACTIVE, MOUNTAIN INFANTRY IN THE WORLD. AS ITALIANS EMIGRATED, ALPINI SOCIAL GROUPS FORMED ALL OVER THE WORLD, INCLUDING RIGHT HERE IN COFFS HARBOUR. FRAN STEPHENSON FINDS OUT ABOUT OUR LOCAL ALPINI GROUP FROM PRESIDENT OR CAPOGRUPPO, TARCISIO BORSATO.
T
ell us about the Alpini Group? In the ‘90s your group was known for the The Alpini were specially selected fantastic parties or feste they held in Coffs young soldiers, generally mountain Harbour and the money raised, which went to valley locals, who had knowledge of many community projects. the mountain territory and were able to Yes. We used to hold the feste in a local banana easily adapt to the Alpine region of Italy. packing shed. The women would cook for crowds of In Australia, groups of former Alpini first formed up to 300 people, old Italian songs were sung and the in the bigger cities like Sydney and Adelaide. We had younger generations enjoyed a taste of their heritage. about 20 Alpini here in Coffs Harbour who were the We would roast chestnuts and cook Italian sausage, basis of the local group when it first formed. I became and the women cooked a sweet biscuit called crostoli head of the group in 1991. Unfortunately today as we as a fundraiser. are getting older, there are less members. These feste raised over $100,000 for a variety Our current Alpini members are: of charities, including the Westpac Rescue myself, Pietro Barbaresco, Helicopter. We donated equipment to Terezio Dal Pozzo and Livio the Oncology and Maternity Wards at Andriolo. We have a team Coffs Harbour Hospital. Money was of about 13 supporters, also raised for the needy in Brazil it t gh ou th e W including our two and Russia, and funds went would be a good Italo-Aus current committee towards building a preschool an ld ho to ea id t frie nds members: Luigi in Italy. A big project for our tralian festa to ge the ise Magnabosco and group and one of which we are together otherw Coffs in Mario Lugli. most proud was supplying and Italian tradition f.” e of We pay an annual installing the big steel bell at St. Harbour will di fee to the Alpini Augustine’s Church. Association and operate As the Alpini have aged and within their guidelines. We many have passed away, the last ten receive a monthly magazine, years have only seen some small, lowand each year groups from all key gatherings, picnics etc. over the world attend a reunion in The news is out that there is a festa coming Italy. National reunions are also held here in up soon, and we’re all looking forward to it. Australia, and many of us have travelled to We thought it would be a good idea to hold an capital cities to attend these functions. Italo-Australian festa to get friends together; otherwise, What is the future of the Alpini in Italy and the Italian tradition in Coffs Harbour will die off. The around the world? festa will be held on Friday, March 20th at the Club As there was mandatory military service for the Coffs - the Italian community has a long connection men only in Italy up until 2005, there were always with this club. The proceeds from the night will go to a plenty of members. However, now since conscription local charity, the CanDo Cancer Trust. has finished, Italian armed forces are made up of The women will be serving a three-course meal professional soldiers, both men and women, choosing starting with antipasti and finishing with homemade this as a carreer path. As numbers are now far less, tiramisu and gelati. who knows the future of this organisation. And we have a very popular Italian singer and Locally, only former Alpini soldiers can be the entertainer, Fortunato Isgro, coming from Brisbane. He president of an Alpini group. (This may have to change performs English classics from the ‘50s to the ‘70s, plus in the future … none of us are getting any younger!) traditional Italian music and will have everyone up and However, anyone can become a supporter, and some dancing. It will be a great night in the traditional Italian widows of former Alpini of the Coffs Harbour group style. are keen to continue the membership held by their late husbands. the plug! What are the aims of the group today? Italo - Australian Festa The original mission of the Alpini was to protect Club Coffs, Friday 20 March 2015. Italy's northern mountain border with France and Austria. 6:30pm for 7pm dinner. Today, the aims of the Alpini groups around the Cost: $55 world are to socialise, raise funds for charities and Purchase tickets from Club Coffs. causes and to keep the Italian culture and traditions For more information: 6652 1477 alive.
“
“ WE USED TO HOLD FESTE IN A LOCAL BANANA PACKING SHED. THE WOMEN WOULD COOK FOR CROWDS OF UP TO 300 PEOPLE, OLD ITALIAN SONGS WOULD BE SUNG, AND THE YOUNGER GENERATIONS WOULD ENJOY A TASTE OF THEIR HERITAGE.”
coffs coast focus.
37
Karen Dallas. SKEE KAYAK & SUP CENTRE The beauty of paddling is that it draws together a variety of skills that allows the paddler to explore the fantastic inland and coastline waterways around us. Skills include knowledge about equipment, technique, safety, rescue, navigation, tidal planning, seamanship and weather; courses can be designed to suit your paddling requirements, from basic skills to paddle journeys the paddler chooses to undertake. There is an art of technique involved.The reality is that it’s not your arms doing all the work. Poor posture puts undue and extra pressure on your weaker joints, shoulders, elbows, wrists or lower back - ouch! A basic paddle skill lesson for kayak or Stand Up Paddle board (SUP) can improve your forward paddling technique to make it efficient, effective and protect your body from the more repetitive injuries. If you increase someone’s skill set by 5%, you will increase their enjoyment by 30% ... our number one goal. Skee Kayak & SUP Centre not only help you with your choice of product from the extensive range of kayaks, Stand Up Paddle Boards and accessories at the shop in Mullaway ... We can also help you learn to use this craft to the best of your ability.
saso.creative
MARKETING, WEB AND DESIGN
style + presentation + etiquette
Let me entertain you
Looking to gain confidence and improve your sense of style and personal presentation?
Wanna know your most powerful weapon in your marketing arsenal? Writing. Yep, that’s right. Good ol’ fashioned writing.
The School of Etiquette and Image training is running holiday workshops for teenagers and adults to help you to rise to the top. And who better teach the Etiquette programs than Gina Szary from Impress for Success. Along with owning and running the luxurious Sunny Hill Retreat and Day Spa at Bonville, Gina puts her skills as former model and current lady of the manor to great use, educating young and old about how to get ahead in business and in life. Classes are covering everything from image, dining etiquette, style to public speaking and entertaining, customer service and offering teenagers and adults alike an enjoyable way to reach their full potential. An important component of the course is body image which is highly relevant to a person`s chance of success. Body image doesn`t start with only looking pretty and wearing make-up, it`s about your posture as a whole, your body language and how to show class. Students love the part of the program when the guest make-up artist comes to show the girls in the class how to put make-up on and how to put make up down to suit any occasion. Students will also learn how to write considerably and communicate effectively online.
It’s no secret. By almost every measure and every marketing metric, good, original content on your website or in your print collateral has the biggest impact on customers and prospects. By a long way. And good content is, for the most part, driven by good writing. Good copywriting helps your pitch gel, keeps prospective customers reading, tells a story, maintains interest, converts enquiry to interest and interest to action. It boosts your Google ranking. It makes customers come back. It lets your customers know you’ve got something to say, and verifies and promotes your expertise in your field. One of the most frequent discussions we have with the small businesses we consult with is the need for good content. If you’re thinking of a website or a print campaign, you need content. Sounds self-evident, I know, but it’s the thing most often overlooked. It doesn’t have to be Tolstoy, and it doesn’t have to rhyme, and it doesn’t have to reach for advertising immortality. All it has to do is be relevant to your customers and prospects. If you’re strapped for time or if writing is not your forte, we offer contract copywriting services that creates engaging content for your customers. Engaged customers are far more likely to perceive your business in a positive light and purchase accordingly. Call saso.creative today to discuss how a custom content creation plan can directly benefit your business.
TARGETED DESIGN FOR YOUR BUSINESS
WEBSITEDESIGNPRINTDESIGN LOGODESIGNBRANDDESIGN BOOKDESIGNCOPYWRITING
call sam and nanette
6658 7666 sasocreative.com.au
38 coffs coast focus.
O
coffs coast focus.
39
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
O Kate Cooke. FLUSHED WITH HEALTH Why did you decide to open your business? More recently, I found myself looking for a flexible work option that enabled me to pursue my passion for helping people take control of their own health, whilst meeting the needs of my children as a single parent. This eventually led to me establishing my own solo business, Flushed With Health, in beautiful Sawtell 15 months ago. What makes you stand out amongst your competitors? There really is a lack of awareness in our society that we don’t have to suffer from constipation, bloating and digestive problems. Too many of us are needlessly living with discomfort and more serious bowel problems. I like to support other therapists and doctors who support you to feel amazing. What or who has been your greatest influence in business? My mum. She’s a pharmacist, who not only ran a very successful business, but raised four children whilst supporting my dad through a very traumatic farming accident that changed the direction of all our lives. She showed me it’s possible to be and to do everything when you have to.
40 coffs coast focus.
Avalon Connor. CONVEYANCER
Breea Gal. HAIR STYLIST
Tell us about Avalon Connor Conveyancing. Avalon Connor Conveyancing is all about catering to all people entering into property transactions in New South Wales, including interstate and international investors.
Coffs Harbour local Breea Gal has been chosen from thousands of hairdressers across Australia and New Zealand to be a part of the Generation Next Gala Night at Hair Expo 2015.
At Avalon Connor Conveyancing, we understand that buying or selling a residential, commercial or industrial property is a big decision and a significant matter for most people.
Breea’s creative and passionate flair in the hairdressing world has landed her a place in the top eight across Australia.
What is involved in your job? • Preparation and review of contracts for sale or purchase of land • Property settlements and negotiations • Looking after Auction enquiries • Assistance with first home owners and the First Home Owners Grant • Mortgages, refinancing and property deposit bonds • Property developments and subdivisions • Residential property • Commercial and industrial property Who are your customers? We assist first home buyers, property developers, real estate agents, banks, mortgage brokers and surveyors. Our conveyancing services are offered at competitive, fixed fee rates, and we deliver them through highly qualified staff. Contact us to arrange an appointment.
Along with opening up her own business this year, Breea is ready to take to the stage and showcase her work.
Breea’s creative and passionate flair in the hairdressing world has landed her a place in the top eight across Australia. “I’ve worked backstage now at Australia’s Mercedes Benz fashion week three years in a row, and being a part of that runway life has made me take the next step in my career and enter the Generation Next Hairdressing Comp. “And now being chosen as one of the top eight in Australia is just a dream come true!” says Breea. Breea has been in the industry for seven years now, and at the age of only 22 she is ready to take on a new, fresh approach to hairdressing in the salon and on the runway!
w o m e n
i n
It has been a challenge, especially when progressing my career, but I have great family support which I couldn’t live without.
O Kerry Bottrell. NU ERA Just recently my husband and I purchased Nu Era Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations. I had worked for the previous owners in this business for over five years prior. As this company has grown from five staff to 12, I’ve learned about many obstacles in business. I have lived in Coffs Harbour for 22 years and my husband, Rob, was born and raised in Sawtell. Being the motorbike enthusiasts that we are, we have many beautiful places to ride. My ambition in life is to succeed and to make many dreams come true. We have a very supportive team that continues to excel in delivering the quality craftsmanship that the Nu-era team is renowned for. Nuera employs a strong team of local men and women from a variety of backgrounds, qualifications and experiences. We have one
b u s i n e s s
Petah Russell. NOVASKILL of the best showrooms in the district and are happy to take the extra time to help you with your renovation needs, either big or small. Nu-era has always been known as a family run business, and we will continue the familyfriendly atmosphere as new owners. With all our manufacturing taking place here in Orlando Street, we are able to custom manufacture whatever cabinetry you can imagine. Whilst the kitchen has traditionally been thought of as “the women’s domain”, we are up to date with the 21st Century concept of the kitchen being the central hub of the family home. We love to incorporate new ideas in all our new renovations, so come and see us. www.stonesurfaces.com.au
Are you originally a Coffs Harbour woman? Originally born in Sydney, then moving to Brisbane in my late teen years, I have never stayed anywhere longer than five years, always taking on new professional challenges. Then I moved to the Mid North Coast nine years ago, and haven’t left ... the most beautiful place to live and raise my son. What is your position at Novaskill? I am the branch coordinator for the Coffs Harbour and Nambucca Head branches, so my area to cover is Grafton to Kempsey. I have been with Novaskill for 6½ years, starting as a trainer in Nambucca Heads, progressing to my current role. You have a family as well; how do you manage it all? What secrets do you have
for women in business in relation to juggling family and business? I am a single mum; I have a beautiful 10 year old son. It has been a challenge, especially when progressing my career, but I have great family support which I couldn’t live without. What is the number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year? My goal is to make Novaskill everyone’s first choice! Getting people to think of us first when considering traineeships, apprenticeships, commercial training and mentoring programs. Get people to understand Novaskill has a large range of products and is always adapting with the times.
coffs coast focus.
41
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
O
JOANNE Te Auevines.
Principal/Licensee One Agency Coffs Harbour
Joanne Vines and the team at One Agency Coffs Harbour ask; are you the next ONE?
W
hen did you first decide to swing open the doors of One Agency Coffs Harbour? From the moment I began my career in real estate, my goal was to own and operate my own business. This passion came about from the need to offer a more personalised ONE on ONE service where we deliver what we promise to our clients. I wanted to instil my own style and philosophy into my business whilst adhering absolutely to the requirements of the Property Stock & Business Agents Act 2010. Our business model is forever evolving due to demand (we value all of our clients’ opinions and invite each and every one of them to submit suggestions to help us to grow our business). The most recent evolution has involved our name change from One Agency Joanne Vines to One Agency Coffs Harbour. I am forming a dynamic team that embraces the values of delivering the exceptional real estate experience for which we are renowned. What attracted you to being your own boss? The freedom and convenience to work from home first attracted me to being my own boss; this, plus the feeling that the traditional real estate model could be tested due to modern technology - such as email and the 42 coffs coast focus.
internet, which meant that a shop front was not necessary. Building a group of like-minded people who shared the same enthusiasm, work ethic and drive excited me. Having a husband who had total confidence in my ability made my dream a reality; Pryde is a constant source of advice, encouragement and support. Your slogan “are you the next one?”... what does this mean? We love our play on words to include ONE in the marketing we deliver: ONE Step Ahead; ONE to Watch; EveryONE we touch turns to sold; Are you the next ONE? We invite you to experience ONE SOLD or ONE LEASED on your property following a successful sale or property management transaction. You’re well known around town for donating your time to various fundraisers. Why is “giving back” important? The Coffs Coast community supports me in business, and therefore I feel it is only natural to play a part in the growth and wellbeing of this great city. Your son, Zak, is also involved in the business. Do you plan on handing the reins over to him at some stage down the track? Zak is an integral part of the One Agency Coffs Harbour team. He has grown exponentially since he commenced employment in real estate in July 2013. He is currently studying his real estate licence, which will allow him to be a licensee.
He is thoroughly enjoying being part of the sales team, which in the future will allow me to enjoy more extended vacations! What is one thing people don’t know about your business? Our business is different. It is not built on a traditional model. One Agency Coffs Harbour has evolved through time and technology, and we pride ourselves on our many points of difference: our office at The Promenade does not have a street frontage, is located upstairs, and as you enter there is a welcoming tea-room; regular meetings encourage team members to share their ideas, which leads to growth and satisfaction; we have “Cake Day” once a month; birthdays are no work days; and family is priority! What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why? There have been many great influences throughout my career, consisting of business mentors, trainers and authors, although there is no doubt the greatest influence would be my parents, Sam and Julee. They have instilled a solid work ethic and strong moral values which set the foundation. My husband, Pryde, is a great sounding board who keeps me grounded and allows me to be the woman I am. You have a family as well; how do you manage it all? What secrets do you have for women in business in relation to
juggling family and business? Commencing my real estate career with a young family, it was imperative to quickly find a balance with work, life and self! This is constantly a juggling act, but I discovered very early that survival meant focusing on the important issues and outsourcing the rest! Employing others to fill in the gaps provided me the opportunity to pay myself first, which allowed me to perform to my full potential in all aspects of my life. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? My greatest professional accomplishment to date would be owning and operating my own business. Now my challenge is to grow by demand but maintain the same level of professional ONE on ONE service. What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers? Stay true to yourself, don't jeopardise your own integrity, treat others the way you wish to be treated, what you put out is what you'll receive. What is the number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year? There are significant goals I wish to achieve in the next twelve months: constantly striving to improve, to work smarter not harder, although the major one is in the early stage of development - watch this space!
International Women’s Day. International Women’s Day in Coffs Harbour is celebrated each year as a joint initiative of the three major women’s networking groups, Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour, Inc., Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network (BWN) and Business & Professional Women (BPW) Coffs Harbour. The International Women’s’ Day (IWD) Award acknowledges and promotes the positive contribution of women to the community in the region of Coffs Harbour, which includes the local government area of Coffs Harbour and Bellingen Shire.
Christina is a Women’s Story Circle Facilitator at the Women’s Health Centre, as well as a facilitating Circle workshops within organisations, schools and community services as a way to support healthy women leading to healthy communities.
has and continues to manage the organisation through times of great change and is actively engaging with all stakeholders as we face further uncertainty as part of the government restructure of NGO Health Services.
The award aims to recognise outstanding women working for the betterment of women and girls in business, education and community.
On a weekly basis, Christina networks and develops connections towards collaborative events and projects that contribute to a culturally rich, vibrant region. She is a strong, creative, intuitive leader who epitomises an empowered woman in our community. Bronwyn Chalmers
Julie Ferguson
The three finalists have been recognised and will be announced on International Women’s Day, March 6th 2015 at Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort. Christina Monneron Christina is a well-respected business woman and community developer. In both her profession as a business owner/operator of Kulturithmik combined with the voluntary work she does to support women and girls in our region, she deserves recognition. Christina is an integral organiser of the local community initiative, WOW Women Of the World, Coffs Harbour. WOW connects women and girls from socially, cross cultural and financially disadvantaged communities. Christina facilitates tailored workshops for WOW events through the mode of dance in order to empower and connect women both to each other and to their sense of identity. Events include International Women’s Day, Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC week. Christina is an organiser of the initiative, “The Unity Dance”, which brought together women and girls from diverse cultural groups to unite in reconciliation and harmony. Christina collaborated with the student girls at Jetty High School as the choreographer for the musical theatre production Garlambirla, teaching the girls the sacred ocean dance to empower them through the creation stories of the Elders, plus an introduction to “Girl Power” through Afro-Cuban culture.
Bronwyn has been the CEO of the Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre and GenHealth Inc. for 11 years. She manages both Coffs Harbour Women’s Health Centre and the headspace Coffs Harbour programme, with over 50 staff in total. She provides strong leadership to a dedicated and varied team of health care professionals, including GPs, psychologists, youth workers, nurses and administration staff, dealing with all with fairness and good humour. Both organisations are committed to the health and wellbeing of women and girls in our community, and Bronwyn works tirelessly to ensure that our programmes meet the needs of our target market as well as possible. All medical services are bulk-billed in order to ensure access for all women. Bronwyn has also recently negotiated the provision of a specialist gynaecologist to provide bulk billed services to disadvantaged women through the Women’s Health Centre. In addition, Bronwyn sits on the Board of Governance of Mid Coast Communities and is strongly involved in the community advocating for women. Bronwyn sits on many committees representing the women of Coffs Harbour. Bronwyn has formed a partnership with Transport NSW in order to provide transport support for women who are disadvantaged and geographically isolated in order to receive health services. Bronwyn
For the past seven years Julie has organised the Coffs Harbour Orphans Christmas. This came about when she was alone for Christmas one year and vowed not to spend another lonely Christmas. She figured that there would be others in a similar situation, and so advertised for lonely people who wanted to get together with others on Christmas Day. The first year there were 16; last year there were 145. Julie approached charities, refuges and other similar organisations to spread the word and then wondered what happened to these people for the rest of the year. Julie had seen the generosity of food retailers and wholesalers when she organised the Christmas Orphans party. She decided to see if they could extend themselves to provide excess food throughout the year. Julie connected with an organisation called “OzHarvest”
Coffs Harbour IWD. International Women’s Day in Coffs Harbour is celebrated each year as a joint initiative of the three major women’s networking groups, Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour, Inc., Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network (BWN) and Business & Professional Women (BPW) Coffs Harbour. 2015 will see the inaugural IWD Coffs Harbour Woman of the Year announced. Seven local women were nominated and can be seen at the IWD Coffs Harbour Facebook page. From these nominees, 3 finalists, (pictured) were selected. This award acknowledges and promotes the positive contribution of women to the community in the region. The award aims to recognise outstanding women working for the betterment of women and girls in business, education and community. Criteria for the Award was: Resides in the local electorate; Has demonstrated significant leadership and or achievement; and Has made an outstanding contribution to the lives of women and girls in the community. The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the IWD breakfast event at Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort on Friday 6th March. Guest speaker on the day will be Deidre Anderson, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Macquarie University - her topic: “Stop thinking Small”. Coffs Harbour has so many incredible women; come and celebrate with us. Tickets can be purchased at www.stickytickets.com.au/23148 or call 0411 463 592 for more information.
Julie works wonders rescuing food that would otherwise be discarded and delivering it to charity staff and service providers, who in turn ensure that it reaches hungry people. Since Feb, Julie has redistributed 7,000 kilograms of food in Coffs Harbour. Five days a week Julie picks up crates of bread, fruit, and vegetables from businesses like Mother Natures, Woolworths, Happy Frog and Cocoa. She delivers to up to 22 different local groups, helping to feed countless disadvantaged people. Women and kids at Warrina Women and Children’s Refuge call her the “food fairy”. Julie has also organised breakfast clubs at seven local schools and food to TAFE and university students. Julie spends 25% of her pension supporting this venture and is desperate for funds. coffs coast focus.
43
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
O Martha, Jo and Kristy - CHANDLER MACLEOD Martha Halford - I first started working in this industry in Sydney. It was my first job out of university, and I was very naïve to the sometimes brutal nature of recruitment. Fortunately, I had an amazing boss who invested time in her team and had an open door policy. She is, to this date, still a contact of mine, despite not having worked for her for over five years and both having moved on from that company. Exposure to that kind of leadership at such an early stage in my career has set my expectations for how I think any business should be run. The Chandler Macleod Office in Coffs Harbour is one of those businesses, with a brilliant mix of three very different women’s experiences, attitudes and goals backed by a global company’s core values and structure. This affords us a very unique approach to recruitment, allowing a personal experience with a professional backbone to help build stronger, best-fit businesses in the Coffs Harbour community. Jo Ellerman - Tired of the cold, frosty Bathurst mornings, I decided a sea change was in order, so I moved to the Coffs region five years ago - and love it. I started working in local government then moved across to Chandler Macleod around 2.5 years ago and work with a fun bunch of ladies. As a woman in business, I draw inspiration from dedicated passionate women who set up their own business from scratch and have the energy, creativity and focus to achieve their dreams. Helen Enevoldson from East Coast Surf Sisters and Hanna Lynch from Outpost are two business owners that come to mind. You go, girls! From my own business viewpoint, I feel our team at Chandler Macleod are successful at matching clients and candidates to achieve the “Right Fit” for each individual team. We accomplish this by utilising our own Chandler Macleod psychometric testing and our extensive database to ensure success. We
44 coffs coast focus.
recruit to all work types and across all industries. Kristy Madaffari - I am a Perth girl, and my family and I “hit the road” for 18 months, open to the possibility of relocating should we find that special place. We found that in Coffs Harbour and have now been here for five years. My current position as Manager Coffs Harbour gives me the opportunity to invest time and energy into local businesses and people to “Unleash their Potential”. I feel privileged being able to talk with job seekers or job changers every day and to be available to hear what they are really passionate about. Our team here in the Coffs Harbour branch share the same passion and value on giving back to the community and as such, this makes our working week feel purposeful and fun. Chandler Macleod supports giving back as a nation wide value, and as such we fundraise every month for a particular chosen charity. Local woman Leah Richards and her movement Lost and Found Candle Foundation is the cause of the month for our Coffs Harbour branch. Dedicated to ending child sex trafficking in Nepal, please check out their Facebook page at facebook.com/lostfoundcf Chandler Macleod Coffs Harbour has a demographic region that covers the coast from Taree to Tweed Heads, and we manage approx. 100 temporary employees out on our client sites. Building strong connections with the local community organisations in our three main centres, being Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Lismore has seen us able to better manage the large region and the high volume of staff. Our number one business goal for the coming year is to grow the Health and Aged Care business in the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers region. This means providing residential homes and other aged care businesses with quality casual and temporary staff for their clients.
Natalie Ryan. BEYOND NOW SOLUTIONS Why did you decide to move your prepared to pay an Adviser for outcomes business to a focus on business advice to based results. Business owners know that small and medium businesses? they must prepare a tax return each year, but I grew up in Coffs, and my family have generally they find very little value or good always been in business. It’s in my DNA! My business information in that process. We qualifications are accounting and finance, have invested in understanding cloud based and my public practice career started out very technology so that we can connect business much in compliance, accounting and taxation. owners to solutions that will give them The decision to focus on business success. Time and money savings advice has been a progression equal a growing top and and response to the needs bottom line. Business is and themes of small not about accounting Business is to medium business. anymore - but not about People embark on accountants are the accountingbut self employment for best placed to be anymore – ts are the n many reasons, but I ta the A-team that accoun the e b to d ce la p t think “freedom” is a smart business bes smart A-team that aner the word that best owner is looking is business owto bring sums up the “why” for to bring some looking for easured - financial, lifestyle real measured some real m and family. Whilst .” outcomes. This outcomes compliance (accounting, is our total focus taxation) is important, - understanding the these requirements do not need, bringing solutions to generally support the visions the table, analysing the direct and dreams of a business owner to benefits from the solution, and achieve their freedom. This is why I moved measuring the progress and outcomes. my business towards a service offering What would be your top of mind that ensures compliance, accounting business tip to a business owner? and taxation requirements are met but the Engage with technology and the cloud. It focus is on and client fees are used to help is an enormous opportunity to streamline business owners grow their businesses, save your business and gain real efficiencies and time, increase efficiency and work towards a money savings. Business owners no longer saleable business. need to use people as the only method of This all sounds good, but how can you solving business problems. Using the cloud give our readers a real sense of what this to streamline bookkeeping and business means? processes is the most cost effective method In all honesty, we have had to reinvent of moving forward. This allows a business to ourselves from traditional accountant to redeploy people to more profitable tasks. We effective Business Adviser. I am convinced are a certified Partner of Xero. Drop into our beyond doubt that small to medium business office to view our demonstration, or call to owners are looking for value; they are only make a time.
“
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
O Sharan Mander. ART SUPPLY EMPORIUM
Renae Knight. 3 BEARS EARLY EDUCATION
Nicola Taylor. SKINFIT
There was a gap in the market - so I decided to open Art Supply Emporium on May 1st 2012. There were no other outlets for professional artist supplies in Coffs Harbour. As there are a lot of artists in the area, we conducted a survey prior to opening that showed the community wanted and needed a local, quality artists’ store.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers? Set goals, so you have a sense of purpose and direction in your business. Furthermore, when you set goals, be flexible, because your plans could change as the needs in your community changes, without much warning.
Why did you decide to open your business?
Our focus is on customer service - our store is operated on the premise that “if we don’t stock it, we will try to source it for you”. We have a large range of professional quality art supplies. Our orders only take 1-3 days to be delivered to us - minimal wait time! We are happy to give/ source any information we can on the use/application of our products, as well as any hints or tips we can pass on.
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? 3 Bears Early Education Service approaching 20 years in business. November 1995, following the birth of the first of my six children, saw 3 Bears Cottage open its doors to the Coffs Harbour community, with a team of just four educators.
nutrition and outdoor training.
The best advice I could give would be a) do your homework - has to be viable b) get the right advice - go to the professionals c) if you have the passion, there is nothing you cannot achieve. Our biggest business goal is to have our products for sale online within six months.
With a vision to offer the market a fresh and innovative alternative and a steely determination to build the business, a team of 14 is now renowned in the community for providing a highly personalised service. Caring for someone else’s children bears a tremendous amount of responsibility and requires a serious commitment. We play a key role in their overall development and may well be someone they will remember their entire lives.
We have a large range of Matisse/Atelier & Art Spectrum Acrylic/Oil Paints and associated Mediums, Arches/ Stonehenge/AS/Bockingford Watercolour Papers/Handmade Marbled Paper/Printing & Mixed Media Papers, a large range of Triple Primed Canvasses, Screen/Blockprinting Inks/Fw Inks/Black Indian Ink, Coloured Pencils, Watercolour Pencils, Graphite and Charcoal Pencils.
Remembering 3 Bears is what we will be hoping for come birthday celebrations later this year. An invitation goes out to all ex children and families to attend this event and contribute to our “community wall”.
Skinfit is only 10 weeks old. Girlfit, my other business, has been operating for five years. I opened up Skinfit in Sawtell to complement Girlfit. Both businesses work on the body; together we can create happy, fitter, stronger, healthier women through pampering, skin What is your position at Skinfit and Girlfit? Managing Director. I work hands on in both businesses Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (24 hours a week ha ha). 5am starts and 7pm finishes, but I thrive on what I preach. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Winning three trips to Paris by running a successful beauty salon in Coffs and also winning National Therapist of the Year. What’s the best advice you have received in business? Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, how you leave others feeling after having an experience with you becomes your trademark. What is your number one business goal over the next year? With Girlfit, getting more women happier and healthier. With Skinfit , improving the skin of both men and women on the North Coast and providing a place to stop, relax and forget the outside world just for a bit.
coffs coast focus.
45
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
Money WITH MELANIE
O Steffi Kocon & Cate Mcrae. JETTY HOLISTIC HEALTH You and Cate and opened Jetty Holistic Health six months ago. Tell us a little about this. Steffi: Cate spent 17 years practicing natural therapies in Armidale, and I have been practicing in Coffs Harbour for over 15 years. We discovered years ago that we have a similar approach and vision concerning our profession, which has now evolved into us starting the business together. It has been such an exciting time, and we are pleasantly surprised by the fantastic response to our unique clinic/health food shop on the Jetty Strip. Our mission is to provide the community with professional health care in a relaxed environment. Everyone is welcome to wander in for a browse or a chat about what we can offer to them. What is naturopathy? Cate: Naturopathy is the use of natural medicines like herbs, nutrients and
homeopathics together with diet and lifestyle changes to treat health conditions. Steffi and I use extensive testing and thorough case taking to establish the underlying cause of our patients’ health issues. We then assist patients to take back control over their health and help to prevent chronic disease like diabetes and heart disease. What type of health conditions do you mostly treat? Steffi: We are surprised by how many people are affected by stress in the form of insomnia, anxiety or an inability to cope with life. Cate and I also both have years of experience with male and female fertility issues, menopause and other hormonal imbalances. However, all health issues respond well to natural health care, even if the more serious ones require medical attention as well.
Got Tax Questions? Ask Mel Whether you are still at concept stage with your start up or your family has been running a business for five generations, you probably have one thing in common: tax and accounting questions. For most business owners, tax and accounting questions are an annoyance. You have a business to run, customers to satisfy, a pipeline to fill: the last thing you want to be worrying about is the difference between a debit and a credit or the latest legislation on super contributions. Getting answers to your tax and accounting questions can be even more annoying. Hours spent on hold with the tax office and invoices from your accountant for minutes spent responding to your queries seem like a poor use of your limited resources. MJ Accountants is coming to the rescue with the MONEY WITH MELANIE Facebook campaign. Between Monday 23 February and Friday 6 March, you can post any question you like on their Facebook page and an answer will be posted by 6 March. And the information is free, gratis, absolutely no charge!
ASK MEL on
Mel Zander is the founder of MJ Accountants and the mastermind of the “Money with Melanie” campaign, which provides information and answers to Coffs Coast businesses via social media, the MJ Accountants website, Radio 2CS and this magazine. We asked Mel how she could afford to give away her time and expertise so generously. “It’s in our best interest for businesses on the Coffs Coast to be strong and growing,”she responds. “Providing information and advice helps create a vibrant and confident business community, and that’s good for us.” Not only can you get quick answers at no cost, but also MJ Accountants are going to reward the best question with a free BAS preparation. “Some of the questions we’ve had in the past have required one word answers, and others have been complex,” says Mel. “But every question has been important! Business owners need these answers so they can make good decisions and get on with running their businesses.”
Got niggling tax or accounting questions? Post your questions on MJ Accounting’s Facebook page. All questions will be answered by 6 March. The best question gets a FREE BAS preparation. (See website for details)
Phone 6652 8788 www.mjaccountants.com.au
46 coffs coast focus.
with Barbara Wenman
Meet the skilled and caring team at La Fleur D’Alyse
Coffs Harbour’s premier cosmetic laser and medispa ... Our private facility caters for individuals, couples and groups of up to 10 people. Detox, lose weight, burn fat and rejuvenate your body in our Infrared Sauna. La Fleur D’Alyse’s spacious spa facility and perfectly manicured gardens make it the ideal venue for a wide array of gatherings, from hen’s celebrations to birthday parties, girls’ nights to baby showers. Dr John Wenman and cosmetic nurse Barbara Wenman are very experienced in Cosmetic Medicine, having been in the industry for over 20 years and being among the first in Australia to establish non surgical cosmetic medicine. Dr. Wenman is a member of the Australasian Society of Cosmetic Medicine and has been a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Physicians for over 40 years and was recently made a life member for his services to medicine. Cosmetic Nurse Barbara Wenman is a Registered Nurse and an Associate Member of the Australasian Society of Cosmetic Medicine; like all members, they maintain a commitment to high standards of treatment, patient safety and ongoing training. In skilled hands, cosmetic treatments can turn back the hands of time and create natural
looking results. Together with skin treatments such as laser, IPL, peels, injectable dermal fillers and anti wrinkle injections, they create an effective and relatively simple way to refresh the face. Complications can occur, but are rare. You need to be wary of practitioners who fly in and fly out for a day or a week because if you experience any complication, they may not be available to treat you. Barbara specialises in the rejuvenating effects of cosmetic injecting using dermal fillers and muscle relaxing injections. She creats a natural non surgical face lift, restoring youthfulness to the face, eyes and lips. Dr John Wenman specialises in absorbable promoitalia threads, face, neck, and body rejuvenation lift. Dr Wenman was one of the first to introduce this procedure to Australia and continually devises and attends training sessions to improve the effectiveness and safety of this procedure. Dr John Wenman and Cosmetic Nurse Barbara
Wenman have both trained in Australia and overseas and have a strong ethical view to continued staff training, quality of results and client safety. All our staff work under the supervision of Dr. John Wenman. Linda Bolitho has been with La Fleur D’alyse for over 11 years and has been involved in the beauty/laser industry for over 30 years. Linda is a certified Laser Therapist and Beauty Therapist. We use the medical grade lumenis one/IPL and Yag Laser, which delivers accurate and reliable long term results and is tailored to your individual skin type and condition. Conditions treated: pigmentation, freckles, capillaries, rosacea, fine lines, age spots, port wine stains, hair removal. La Fleur D’alyse would like to introduce Emma Shaw, Specialist Laser Therapist in tattoo removal and skin rejuvenation - a third generation Coffs
Harbour local returning after 10 years training and working in Brisbane’s largest Laser Clinics with the latest technology for laser tattoo removal. Bianca Ling and Kasie Landrigan are fully qualified with a Diploma of Beauty Therapy. Bianca specialises in Certificate 2 makeup artistry for wedding, special occasions and fantasy. Bianca and Kasie also specialise in spray tanning using long lasting products. Both Bianca and Kasie offer all aspects of waxing, tinting, hand/ foot care, facials, peels, massage including hot stone therapy, and angelic reiki, dyanamic lift, hyperbaric therapy facials.
coffs coast focus.
47
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
I’m here in the local community to make legal services accessible to everyone. Not only do we offer an obligation-free first consultation in our branch, we can also do home or hospital visits at a convenient time after hours or on the weekend.
O Lisa Flynn. SHINE LAWYERS What is your role at Shine Lawyers? I am the General Manager of Shine Lawyers. Shine Lawyers is a national law firm which fights to obtain compensation for people who have been hurt or have suffered damage or loss as a result of the actions of another. We pride ourselves on always standing up for the little guy. My role involves ensuring that every single one of our clients obtains the best possible level of service and that we deliver high quality results. Are you originally a Coffs Harbour woman? I am a proud local, having been born and raised in the area. I moved to Brisbane after finishing high school at Toormina High to start my law degree and then commenced my law career with Shine in 1999. I spent a lot of years in Queensland, but after starting
48 coffs coast focus.
our family in 2009, the pull of the Coffs Coast became too great, and we moved back home to raise our children. Why did you decide to open Shine in Coffs Harbour? My role at Shine is a national one and requires a lot of travel. Prior to June last year, when I was not travelling I was working from our home in Sawtell. Whilst this had some benefits, I also missed working in and being part of a local community. In addition, I knew that there were people in our area who really needed the assistance that Shine can provide. We therefore made the decision to open in Sawtell so that we could provide our service to our local community. I absolutely love working in Sawtell and helping the people that need a voice. Our clients get the benefit of having a local person with the backing of a
national firm working on their matters. Who are you inspired by? I am inspired by people who stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult for them to do so. Erin Brockovich is a remarkable woman whom we work closely with at Shine, and to me she embodies this. Erin is someone who has made personal sacrifices to stand up against large powerful companies when they do something that causes harm to a community. It makes me very proud to be part of a firm which stands up for what is right and fights on behalf of people who otherwise may feel that they don’t have a voice. You have a family as well; how do you manage it all? What secrets do you have for women in business in relation to juggling family and business?
I honestly don’t think that there is a secret. I think that every family does what they can to provide the best for their children and for them. Sometimes it is a daily challenge to find the right balance, and it will be different for different people and families. I am very fortunate in that my husband and I work together well as a team; he is currently doing the very important role of stay at home dad, and he does a really wonderful job with our three young kids. I also have wonderful support from my parents, who live close by. What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers? Do what you love and you will never work a day in your life. I really love what I do - I feel privileged to be able to stand up for people who need help.
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
O Therese Ryan. CORNERSTONE
Billy-Joh and Sharon. NORTEC
Deborah and Tracey. LE HIP BOUTIQUE
Cornerstone Conveyancing Services is a boutique office built upon the founding principles of: experience, trust and integrity.
What is your position at NORTEC Employment &
Deborah Bohman and Tracey Hutchinson are back.
Training?
After a 10 year break, the original owners of Le-Hip
(In unison) We are both Recruitment Consultants -
Boutique have returned.
At the helm of Cornerstone Conveyancing Services is Therese Ryan, who established the business last 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 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 11 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. In November last year Therese was also elected by her peers as Councillor for the Australian Institute of Conveyancers (NSW Division).
responsible for liaising with business owners in the region
With their extensive experience, they now have the shop
and finding the best employee for their business.
they want for their customers. With loyal customers
What or who has been your greatest influence in
returning, they are happy to style anyone for any
business?
occasion. With all sizes and styles available from beach
(Sharon) In the early ‘90s I worked for Kerry Packer as the
wear to weddings, they are more than happy to honestly
evening PA, with his stable of 25 magazines - he was hard
dress you. With their personalised style, you will enjoy the
but fair and taught me to be goal-oriented and focus on
whole shopping experience.
the positive. (Billy-Joh) I grew up in a family business (my
Deborah and Tracey are passionate about their shop and
parents) and went on to run two successful businesses
looking after their clientele, as they believe making you
with my own family. I learnt a lot about teamwork,
look good makes them look good. They are big believers
excellent work ethics and a commitment to employment.
in good, old personal service, and they love helping style
You have a family as well; how do you manage it all?
you. With so many years in the business, they are happy
(In unison) We are both fortunate in having good family
to share their experience with you.
support, but if you can get great support with excellent
They also have a large range of accessories, from jewellery,
managers and colleagues in the workplace too (like we
scarves to shoes and bags and hats. Make sure you come
Therese specialises in all aspects of the profession: from buying and selling residential property including Torrens, strata, community title and rural property as well as off the plan purchases across NSW. Cornerstone Conveyancing Services aims to deliver an exceptional personal customer service experience in a timely and professional manner.
have at NORTEC), it’s a real blessing.
and visit, because there’s new stock arriving constantly
What is your number one business goal this year?
and sales are on regularly, which you can follow on their
(In unison) Both of our goals is to increase job placements
Facebook page. The youngest customer to enter through
in the Coffs region overall by 20% in the next year. To
the doors was four, and the eldest they have dressed is 97
create opportunities and inspire futures for community
years old, so you could say everyone is catered for… For
members in our beautiful region.
all enquiries, call 6654 7676.
coffs coast focus.
49
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
Accent provides genuine, honest advice to all its customers at the most competitive prices, regardless of what the budget is - and with only quality products that are backed up with excellent after sales warranties for long standing suppliers.
O The Team. CARLA HENDERSON, LOUISE RICHARDS, GLENNIS SQUIRES & MICHELLE MCLENNAN There are four women here at Accent Bathrooms - and all with a wealth of experience in the industry. I, as the owner/manager, have been involved in the plumbing and bathroom industry for over 30 years in Coffs Harbour with my own business. That long ago, there were no women selling the products or very few showrooms in the then plumbing supply stores. I have been instrumental and very proud of contributing to the change in attitudes to the retail segment of the industry - by assisting many businesses throughout Australia in setting up their showrooms and concentrating on the retail section - and the importance of assisting customers with what they want in their new homes, not just
50 coffs coast focus.
focusing on what was available. And today, most plumbing supply stores and bathroom centres have women advising and selling to their customers. Louise is the principal female sales person and is well known in the Coffs Harbour area. She has been in the retail industry for over 21 years and takes such pride in ensuring her customers achieve the outcomes that they require. Carla is the youngest member of the team and has been in the industry for over five years, and her goal is to make her customers always happy and satisfied with their selections. Michelle is the Administration Manager and has over 20 years’ experience and ensuring all our accounts are dealt with efficiently.
Accent bathroom and kitchen Accent provides genuine, honest advice centre is proud to be the to all its customers at the most largest showroom on the competitive prices, regardless North Coast, with an of what the budget is - and to t si vi a e unequalled choice with only quality products Mak Accent before of products for the that are backed up with you make yotuorn all consumer at trade excellent after sales commitmenom and prices to everyone, warranties for long ro your bath rchases , u whether owner/ standing suppliers. p en kitch be very builder, builders, Accent also supplies and you will w hat surprised atoffer plumbers or custom made vanities .” we have to renovators. within a three week My 30 years’ period on any design or size experience in the required. Make a visit to Accent plumbing industry in Coffs before you make your commitment Harbour combined with the on all your bathroom and kitchen experience of my staff equals 150 years purchases, and you will be very surprised at of knowledge in the industry. what we have to offer.
“
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
Chiropractic is a safe, effective and drug-free form of manual therapy. It focuses on removing interference to the nervous system (the communication system of the body) so that the body can function at its best.
O Fiona and Karen. SERENDIPITY LEARNING
Gillian Allport & Judith McNeill. LIVING WELL CHIROPRACTIC
Are you originally Coffs Harbour women? Yes, we both have spent a large part of our lives growing up and living in the Coffs Harbour area. We both have ventured away, either living some time interstate or abroad, but have always been drawn back to the beautiful, natural environment and relaxed lifestyle that you find in this region. We both love living on the Coffs Coast and are very excited about offering our local community an educational service that we think is rather unique. You have just started a new business here in Coffs Harbour. Please tell us about it ... Serendipity Learning is an educational facility that provides parents with an opportunity to enrol their child in a programme that suits their child’s individual needs. We offer innovative Early Childhood and Transition to School Programmes that stimulate creativity and are Reggioinspired. Our Tutoring Program assists children
Gillian Allport and Judith McNeill first met 16 years ago when they embarked on their Chiropractic studies at Macquarie University. Good friends and even housemates, they parted ways upon graduation. Judith first practised in the Hunter Valley before settling in Coffs Harbour, and Gillian worked in Sydney, Spain and Mexico. They were reunited in 2012 when Gillian joined Judith, forming Living Well Chiropractic.
doing a thorough history and examination, you
When asked about how, after all this time, they still maintain their passion for Chiropractic, Gillian states: “It is easy. Every person presents with their own unique health challenges. There is nothing better than guiding them back to wellness and sharing in their success.”
free form of manual therapy. It focuses on
Judith adds: “I love the detective work of chiropractic. Perhaps a patient presents with neck pain and pins and needles in the arm. By
all ages, shapes and sizes. No doubt this will
Inspire
to consolidate key concepts and skills, which builds perseverance and self-confidence. Our Enrichment Programme and Home Schooling workshops provide children with a small group environment that encourages cooperative group skills and the opportunity for them to reflect on their learning with their peers. We are passionate about catering for all learning styles, and we do this by offering a multisensory approach. What is the number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year? We are committed to providing a quality educational service that supports and facilitates the development of the whole child. Our goal is to inspire children to develop a love of learning. We hope that the children in our care will grasp that learning is not just about the finished product; it is about embracing, growing and benefiting from the learning journey.
Explore
can pinpoint what may have contributed to the problem. For instance, it could have been childhood asthma causing incorrect breathing patterns, and chronic postural imbalance.” Both practitioners agree that it is only when you work out the root cause of an issue that you can get truly great results. Chiropractic is a safe, effective and drugremoving interference to the nervous system (the communication system of the body) so that the body can function at its best. Judith and Gillian have a range of techniques that allow them to have success with people of continue to fuel the fire that keeps them excited about their work.
Discover
www.serendipitylearning.com.au Serendipity Learning offers the following Educational Programs:
Innovative Early Childhood & Transition to School 3 to 5 year olds
Tutoring 1:1 Years K-6
Enrichment Years K-6
Home Schooling Years K-6
For more information please contact:
M: 0413 763 143
Email: admin@serendipitylearning.com.au Address: 15A North Street, Coffs Harbour NSW
coffs coast focus.
51
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
O Ness Birks. COAT OF ARMS
Janelle Becker. HUNTERS & COLLECTORS
Marion Atcheson & Nicole Leahy.
Coat of Arms wishes to introduce Ness Birks, their female piercer and expert in body modification. Ness has brought a buzz of excitement to Coat of Arms with what a woman brings to customers for piercing needs and desires - including dermal anchors.
When did you first become a business owner? September 2013.
When did you first become a business owner? I have owned a
Why did you decide to open your business; did you see a gap in the market? I bought the business wanting to continue and grow the passion for quilting.
Spa in Macksville for over 12 years, but when the beautiful Spa at
I guess I was quite young when I discovered piercing, as it was when I was about seven years old going to get my first ear piercings at a local pharmacy. It was then that I quickly wanted to get more, but it wasn't until my teen years that I made up my mind that this was the path I was going to take. I fell rapidly into the world of piercing and piercing culture.
What makes you stand out amongst your competitors? Wanting to share the joy in creating something to cherish.
What makes you stand out amongst your competitors? I pride
Are you originally a Coffs Harbour woman? I was born here in Coffs Harbour after my parents moved from Urbanville to Coffs to start a new life growing bananas.
also getting great results! But what really sets our Spa apart is
What is your position at Hunters & Collectors? Business owner.
look as good as we feel!
It was fascinating to understand about where the practice of piercing came from and the ways we have adopted these methods as our own.
What secrets do you have for women in business in relation to juggling family and business? I'm lucky that I have a family that helps with the day to day life at home. I'm also lucky to have my daughter, Madison, who is a natural at quilting and shares my love for colour and creating, but it can still be challenging at times balancing work and the family you love.
We use the gorgeous organic skincare from local company Heritage
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Building the business to call my own.
really important to me to have a harmonious balance between
I was so inspired, that I went to Brisbane to learn piercing with an accredited piercing school. I earned my certificate and a year later went to Melbourne to complete the master cert in advanced piercing. I have now been a body piercer for over ten years, and the passion I have for what I do is still ongoing. It’s great to give people the pleasure of placing their jewellery in ways that are unique. It’s really satisfying to see how happy people are with themselves and their body image. I’m super happy to be back working in Coffs Harbour with an awesome team of colleagues in a fun, professional and relaxed environment at Coat of Arms.
52 coffs coast focus.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers? Enjoy the ride. What's the number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year? Grow the business through introducing new products and providing workshops to share new ideas and projects for people to enjoy the world of quilting.
SPOILT ROTTEN BEAUTY AT OPAL COVE RESORT
Opal Cove resort became available last September, I leaped at the opportunity to move my business to the stunning Coffs Coast! myself on authentic customer service from beginning to end, and that we take a truly holistic approach to beauty – looking after our clients inner well-being as well as their outer ... after all, we only
Healers, with the latest anti-ageing technologies such as IPL and pure Oxygen Gas Therapy, to make our clients look and feel younger! You have a family as well; how do you manage it all? It is home and work – but to achieve this I have to be super organised, and I’m lucky, my family are really supportive and that helps a lot. What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? I was excited when I gave a lady a facial to find she was so happy with it, that she revealed to me afterwards she was a journalist for The Body and Soul in The Sydney Morning Herald and asked if she could write a piece on me.
w o m e n
i n
b u s i n e s s
O Deb Farquhar. EAST COAST CABINETS
Alison Blanshard. RELATIONSHIP EXECUTIVE Sarah Armstrong. ARCHITECT
Are you originally a Coffs Harbour woman?
What is your position at Commonwealth Bank? I’m a Relationship Executive with the Bank’s Regional and Agribusiness Banking team. My business clients are located throughout the North Coast, Coffs Harbour and Clarence Valley regions.
Are you originally a Coffs Harbour woman?
What’s the best business advice you have received? Under promise and over deliver. Clients always appreciate honesty and hard work. When people trust you, then you can build customer loyalty.
of years, I returned to start a family here.
I was born and educated in Victoria then moved to Canberra at 18 years old. I worked in the Public Service for 15 years, the last seven of which were project managing Overseas Aid Construction Projects. In June 1984, my husband, children and I purchased East Coast Cabinets, and we have worked there since. What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why? My father. He owned a sheep property, and I learnt from a very early age that you did what had to be done when it had to be done, no matter what time, or what day it was. You have a family as well; how do you manage it all? What secrets do you have for women in business in relation to juggling family and business? My children were seven and three when we arrived in Coffs, and they were used to having a Family Day Care mum and me working long hours. I never did household chores until they were in bed, keeping their awake time after we arrived home for quality time with them. I also kept weekends as free as possible for family time.
Are you originally from Coffs Harbour? I’ve been here since 2006, but my partner’s family has been in the area a long time and run a local business, plus I have family here too, so I have a lot of links to the area. I moved here from Sydney and really love the region.
I was not born in Coffs Harbour but grew up on the North Coast of NSW and spent many a weekend on the beautiful beaches in this area. After working both overseas and in Sydney for a number What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why? I have other architects, both local and in Sydney who have been mentors for me over the years in an architectural sense. From a business perspective, however, I would have to say my dad! You have a family as well; how do you manage
What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Helping clients to grow their businesses, overcome their obstacles and take advantage of opportunities. There’s a really vibrant business community here with so many great ideas and such a commitment to the region.
it all? What secrets do you have for women in
What is the number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year? My number one goal is always to deliver customer satisfaction and really understand my clients’ businesses. The better I can really understand what they’re trying to achieve, the more I can support them and help them achieve their goals.
properly!
business in relation to juggling family and business? A fantastic husband and support system. I have also finally learnt to switch off from work when in parent mode and vice versa … there is no point trying to do two things at once and doing neither of them What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers? To always try to give clients a little more than they are expecting.
coffs coast focus.
53
O
KYLIE & TODD PASFIELD IN 2009 KYLIE AND TODD PURCHASED THE MANAGEMENT RIGHTS OF PARADISE PALMS RESORT, AND THEN IN 2013 THEY PURCHASED THE ONSITE RESTAURANT AND FULLY RENOVATED IT TO THE PASFIELDS RESTAURANT WE ALL KNOW TODAY. INTERESTED TO FIND OUT MORE, I ASKED KYLIE THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS ...
W
hen did you first become a business owner? In 2009 my husband, Todd, and I purchased the management rights of Paradise Palms Resort, and then in 2013 we purchased the onsite restaurant and fully renovated it to Pasfields Restaurant. Why did you decide to open your business; did you see a gap in the market? We sat frustrated at our reception for the resort at not having a reception centre onsite to accompany our gorgeous wedding chapel. So we worked very hard, long hours with our little one at our side to save to purchase the restaurant. We could see the potential of it with its panoramic outlooks and the accompanying chapel onsite and accommodation. It was an untapped all in one wedding venue with affordable accommodation, which Coffs needed. What makes you stand out amongst your competitors? Being a smaller family run resort and 54 coffs coast focus.
restaurant with a friendly Then it was in to the and experienced small hotel business, where Greatest team with us, we myself and my brother professional are more flexible to and sister were t: accomplishmen n w tailor make stunning brought up in and do n taking our ru g tin va no events to just how our worked alongside our re , restaurant to it g in ur customers like them. mum, going from one rt it and nu ot it is We really enjoy what hotel up to four very the beautiful sp e are w ch hi w y we do. quickly, with each of us da to Are you originally a running one, and then I very proud of.” Coffs Harbour woman? became group accountant I was born and bred on a for the four. farm near the Nullabor plain in South She was never afraid of work and Australia and moved to Adelaide and then still isn’t, even with two metal hips and a Melbourne to an all girls Grammar School metal disc in her back. She loves people and (a big shock from where I had come from) would more often than not do the cleaning and Monash University to do my Bachelor of and dirty work rather than the showy side. Economics. You have a family as well; how do you What or who has been your greatest manage it all? What secrets do you have influence in business and why? for women in business in relation to My mum! Although isolated on a farm juggling family and business? with three small children, she still travelled 45 I would probably say that I haven’t km to work to run her hairdressing salon. She managed the family side as well as I would worked in factories to support the three of us have liked to. Our beautiful 4 year old when she went to Adelaide and then moved girl, Riley, has missed out on the plays on to Melbourne and purchased a small shop weekends, Christmas and Easters and having and later an aged persons home, where we family around. She spends hours waiting for all lived and worked. Mum.
“
She has just started big school and with many unsuccessful attempts to bring her a sibling, we are now putting her and family life as a priority and concentrating on successfully bringing her a sibling into the world, as she has told me she might pinch one at day care last year if I don’t. That wouldn’t go down too well! What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? Taking our run down restaurant, renovating it and nurturing it to the beautiful spot it is today - which we are very proud of. What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers? If you can’t have two days off, then you shouldn’t run that business (I haven’t followed it, unfortunately, but Kerry - I am now trying to). What is the number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year? To set up policies and procedures with our key staff to enable invaluable time off with my family and new friendships while the business runs smoothly and builds. Thanks Kylie.
Online Safety or Cyber Tips for Parents with Caroline Bleechmore, Park Beach Plaza.
CYBER
MUM
CHARLOTTE YOUNG
ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS
CHARLOTTE YOUNG IS THE MANAGER OF WARRINA WOMEN AND CHILDREN’S REFUGE COOPERATIVE LTD. WARRINA PROVIDES A BROAD RANGE OF SPECIALIST DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE SERVICES ACROSS THE MID NORTH COAST.
W
ithin Coffs Harbour, Warrina operates a crisis refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence and or at risk of
homelessness. The Women’s Resource and Information centre and outreach services situated at 18 Valley Street provides access to counselling, group work and referral. This service is the HUB for all of our work and ensures women are able to explore options in relation to domestic and family violence. Also located at the centre are The North Coast Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service, who provide support and information to women accessing the judicial system for protection at Macksville,Kempsey, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Grafton local courts and the Women’s and Children’s Intervention team who contact women who have been involved in a domestic violence incident where the police attend. Warrina commenced operation over 30 years ago as a result of the dedication of a small group of women. At that time our service was completely voluntary; however, with changing times, government - both state and federal - have assumed the responsibility of funding community based organisations to deliver services to community. The Coffs Harbour area is identified as an area that has a higher than the state average of domestic and family violence - evidence of this includes that police referred 2,039 women to the Women and their Children’s Intervention team in the 2013 to 2014 financial year for information, advice and support. The Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy service worked with 511 women at the Coffs Harbour Local court alone. Throughout this time the refuge had very few vacancies, resulting in women and children staying in unsafe situations or
THE EXPERTS TELL US THAT YOU SHOULD BAN TECHNOLOGY FROM YOUR CHILD’S BEDROOM TO MAKE THEM SAFER AND PROTECT THEM FROM “ONLINE”. alternatively, in temporary accommodation. Warrina is an integral part of the service system in our community; they work in partnership with a broad range of government and non government agencies to support women and children’s recovery from the trauma of domestic and family violence. To support additional work and expand support, they are holding a fundraising event on the 5th March 2015 at Chill Out Café, 6pm to 8:30pm. The theme of the event in recognition of International Women’s Day is ”Make it Happen”. International Women’s Day recognises achievements of women over the years, and this event will celebrate women’s healing journeys of recovery from domestic violence and abuse. Speakers on the evening include personal testimonies from women; Julia will be speaking of her work across Australia and sharing stories of her work in Kabul; another woman will be sharing her story of living with domestic and family violence for fifty years before finally leaving. The inspirational “Leeli” of YouTube fame will perform and showcase her amazing talent on the guitar. The funds raised will be used to provide women with the things they require to set up a home, microwaves, care packages for women in motels and payments for children’s recreational activities, to name a few. We invite all women to participate in this inaugural event; please contact the Women’s Resource and Information centre on 6652 9944 to secure your seat. If you are not able to come but would like to support their work, staff at the centre can discuss with you other ways of donating to their organisation Warrina Women & Children’s Refuge Co-operative Society Ltd, funded by NSW Department of Community Services. 6652 4000
B
ut let’s be realistic - it’s all very well to say no technology in the bedroom; however, the reality is that your kids will have valid reasons like they want to play music or they have homework. But there are ways in which you can set up your home system to provide a safe and well managed online environment for your family and most importantly, to give you back control. My kids, like most, enjoy playing music in their bedroom and to be honest, we have encouraged this, buying them docking stations for their iPods, etc. When I started reading research about the dangers of technology in the bedroom, particularly mobile phones and what can happen online in the small hours of the morning and the disruption this can cause to your child’s sleep and emotional state, I was like a mother possessed quickly trying to back track what I had allowed in their bedrooms, but I soon realised I was fighting a losing battle! My recommendation instead is to look at infrastructure - low cost infrastructure that takes all the argument out of the parenting equation. Step One: Invest in a router that plugs into your broadband connection and enables you to set Wi-Fi access time restrictions, amongst other things. Don’t panic; this does not restrict your personal access. The appropriate router enables you to set up Wi-Fi access parameters per device. For example, games off at 8pm for our youngest and social etc. off at 9pm for our eldest or any time that suits your family and your lifestyle. You can make this specific to weekdays or weekends. We are probably over the top in our house, as we also have kids
Wi-Fi restricted on school mornings, as we attempt to get out the door on time with no added distractions. Step Two: As much as my kids are not loving the introduction of it (but they resent the computer more than us) we have activated Microsoft Family Safety on our home computer. Microsoft Family Safety comes standard with Windows 8 and lets you set time limits for computer access for your kids; for example, my son has one hour per day. You can then easily extend their time if they have completed homework or chores as requested; you can even do this remotely if you are at work. The beauty is, it gives you control, as kids do not have the ability to self-regulate their computer time, even if they think they do. Microsoft Family Safety includes a few extra safety features - it lets you set restrictions on accessible websites per user and provides parental reports on what website your kids have visited, what they have downloaded etc. so you can check in and set your mind at rest, or have a chat! If you don’t feel confident with setting this up but are keen to regain control and take responsibility for your kids’ online safety, then your regular “come to you” computer repair guy, the likes of Geeks2U, can easily set this all up for you in an hour and show you how to use it. Trust me - it could be the best IT dollars you have spent! If you have any questions or would like to discuss any personal confidential matters with me, please feel free to connect with me. cybermum@hotmail.com Insty: @cybermumaus FB: www.facebook.com/cybermumaus coffs coast focus.
55
HEALTH Editorial
Editorial
CAN DO
CANCER Music in the Gardens is a great day out in the botanical gardens with lots of great musical performers. We have jazz bands, orchestras, big bands, great vocal groups and pipe bands. The acoustics are fantastic under the trees; it is a wonderful day and a perfect relaxing setting. Featuring Curtains Up with some great performers, Big Big Boogy Band, Coffs Pipes and Drums, Coffs Harbour City Orchestra, Coffs Harbour Regional Band. What is the history of the event, and how has that developed? Actually, last year was our first event. It was a fantastic day, we had loads of people, but this year we are going to be catering to families as well. We will have lots of fairy floss, face painting and prizes for the kids to help keep them entertained. This year we have a bigger and better programme and we had such a good response last year, we decided to make this an annual event. What can one expect on the day, and who would enjoy this event? Great weather, for a start! Bring your chairs
or blanket; it is a beautiful location where we hold the event. We have lots of food and drink stalls, lucky dips, fairy floss, face painting and we will be drawing our major raffle prize, which includes an iPad, $1,500 worth of travel and a weekend for two in Newcastle. As this is in the Botanical Gardens, it is a no alcohol event, but we will have great coffee!
G
the plug! MUSIC IN THE GARDENS Where: Botanical Gardens. When: Sunday, March 15th, 10am - 4pm. Cost: $5 per person or $10 per family. Ticket sales: At the gate or from Unreal Estate, Raine and Horne Coffs, Parrys Jewellers, ANZ Coffs, Key Employment. Contact: Julie Jardine 0419 227 498 www.candocancertrust.com.au
Sawtell/toormina
Saints Australian Rules Football Club Inc Saints Back on the Track and Ready to go Back to Back! The Sawtell Toormina Saints started their pre-season training last week and have their sights on another trophy this year, with the 2014 premiership winning coach, Jimmy Angel, stepping up once again for the 2015 North Coast AFL season.
56 coffs coast focus.
Gaye Hardcastle MAKEUP
LISA BOHRINGER HAIRDRESSER
aye and Lisa have worked together successfully for six years and always enjoy combining their talents and expertise for makeup and hair to create a stunning and personalised look for you and your bridal party. Gaye - how long have you been doing professional makeup? I have been working in the beauty industry for over 25 years doing formal, photo shoots and wedding makeups. What do you love about your job? I love being part of the excitement of the wedding day and I like to stay right up until the final moments when all the bridal party is dressed and ready to go, putting on veils, lacing up dresses and touching up lipstick. Lisa - how long have you been in the hairdressing game? I have been working in the hair industry for almost 29 years, enjoying various roles in salons to now having my own salon in Diggers Beach.
T
his year also sees the senior players such as the talented Luke Matthews join the coaching team in supporting roles. “The Saints training this pre-season is all about getting fit but enjoying the workout,” said Matthews. “This year we are incorporating a lot of core body work with Crossfit workouts and working on developing stronger kicking and handball techniques. We invite all existing and new players to come on down to training at Richo (Richardson Oval) in sunny Sawtell and get fit with the Mid North Coast’s most successful AFL Club for the last decade.” The Saints are looking stronger than ever, with a new look committee, committed players and an enthusiastic support network. Newly appointed club President Alex Pearson said he was looking forward to a strong year from the club: “We are extremely excited
What do you love about your job? I love all my clients, and many have been with me for years! I enjoy my everyday work but my real passion is definitely every aspect of wedding hair. Final say ... Lisa and Gaye come to you on your day and create a unique look that you and your bridal party will love. Consultations, trials and prior catch ups are always offered. Just remember that choosing the right wedding hair and makeup is one of the most exciting and important parts in the planning of your big day!
the plug! GAYE HARDCASTLE 0417 692 033 gaysieh@hotmail.com LISA BOHRINGER 0431 387 036 lisabohringer@bigpond.com for the 2015 season. Having secured the premiership last year, the boys are more determined than ever to get back into training and commit to solid season ahead.” The club’s senior teams began official training last week at Richardson Oval, Sawtell. Training occurs every Tuesday and Thursday at Richo from 6pm. The club is also seeking expressions of interest for the following positions for the 2015 football season: Players, Coaches and Team Managers for Seniors, Reserves and U18s teams.
the plug! For more information about the club including training, contact club President Alex Pearson on 0438 403 008 or Senior Coach Jimmy Angel on 0427 886 216.
PSYCHOLOGY & WELLNESS Coffs Harbour PODIATRY
Dr Alan Burrow Optometrist Dip Optom F.B.O.A. (HD) D.C.L.P. D.ORTH. F.B.C.O. MSC.(Med.) G.C.O.T. M.OPTOM. G.C.B.A
Spectacle frames not only serve their main function of positioning the lenses correctly in front of the eyes to provide optimal vision correction, but also have a significant visual impact. Skill and experience are needed when selecting an appropriate frame which matches the facial features, while providing a comfortable and aesthetically appealing result. Our goal is to cater for a broad range of frame styles, ranging from the formal to the casual, as well as more unusual leadingedge designs. Humphrey’s is a highly successful European Eyewear range known for its uniquely individual trendy and colourful styles suitable for men and women from early teens through to the sixties. The Humphrey’s range has frames specially designed for small faces, as well as those catering for the progressive lens wearer who would like to present a trendy, youthful appearance. Being positively different reflects the mindset of the Humphrey’s wearer who is optimistic, fun loving with a zest for life and looking at a positive future. To see the full range, visit alanburrow.com.au, click on frames and then the Humphrey’s range or scan the QR code below.
I have hard skin on my feet what should I do? Hard skin on the feet is a very common condition that Podiatrists treat. They are usually referred to as either a corn or callus. However, proper diagnosis by the Podiatrist is important to rule out other common skin lesions, especially warts. What are corns and calluses, and how do they occur? A corn is the result of excessive, repetitive pressure to the skin. A callus is created by excessive, repetitive friction (rubbing) of the skin. As a result, the skin becomes inflamed, thick and hard. Tight fitting footwear, bare feet, thongs combined with faulty foot mechanics (alignment, function and performance) all can lead to this excessive friction or pressure. Corns and calluses usually appear yellowish in color and at times are very sore. They can occur on any part of the foot. If left untreated, they can become debilitating. How are corns and calluses treated? Initial treatment may involve skilled removal of the corn or callus by the Podiatrist. This is usually very painless. However, if the underlying problem is not addressed, the corn or callus may return. Long term resolution may involve shoe advice, a skin moisturizing programme, and correcting any faulty foot mechanics. Faulty foot mechanics may be corrected with protective padding, foot insoles or orthotics. In some cases, corrective foot surgery is required. Only a Podiatrist can give good advice on the best way to treat corns and callous. If you feel you have corns or calluses, do not suffer any longer: call for a Podiatrist’s help or opinion by calling Coffs Harbour Podiatry today on 6651 3824!
Verity has been practicing as a Clinical Psychologist in Coffs Harbour for over 12 years specialising in Stress and Depression Management, Postnatal Depression, Grief and Bereavement, Palliative Care, Trauma and complex Mental Health issues. including Bipolar. Verity and her colleagues also provide services under EAP, Workcover and other referral services. Verity has a particular interest in Biofeedback techniques (which helps with regulating and managing stress response), Nutrition and Hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, EMDR. Verity also conducts seminars and group therapy for Stress , Depression and Improving Assertive Behaviour. Verity and her Colleagues at the centre work with a variety of clients, each working with a varied population from 0 to 100+. Modalities of Therapy: CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Meditation & Relaxation, Biofeedback, EFT, TBT, EMDR and Hypnotherapy. Publications: Coping Strategies and Health among Call Centre Operators, Authors Richard Hicks and Verity Stoker-Biersteker : in Wayfinding Through Life’s Challenges, Coping and Survival, Editors Katheryn M.Gow and Marek J. Celinski:Nova Science Publishers Inc., New York, ISBN 978-1-61122-866-3 Awards: The Bob Montgomery and Laurel Morris Award for “Psychologist Award for the most outstanding Psychology student”. Qualifications: Bachelor of Social Science, Graduate Diploma of Education, Graduate Diploma of Professional Psychology, Masters of Psychology Clinical Professional membership: AHPRA, AAMET, APS Clinical College, Approved Clinical Psychologist for Medicare, Victims of Crime ACT, ATAPS, Workcover and Medicare Local. Board approved supervisor of the 4+2 Program, and 5+2 Program.
coffs coast focus.
57
focusinterview.
RENEE ATKINS
Renee Atkins spent her childhood riding horseback on the beaches of Woolgoolga - memories she will treasure forever. Originally studying a Bachelor of Education at UNE, today Renee finds herself raising her gorgeous son, studying, and running her busy health club.
W
here did you grow up, and what was your childhood like? I was born in Coffs Harbour and grew up in Woolgoolga; I am proud to say that I am a true local! I have only moved away for university and for a couple of months to Sydney after school, where I worked for American Express. I am based in Coffs now, but Woolgoolga will always be home. My childhood was spent exploring the beaches and bushland surrounding Woolgoolga with my pony. We have some of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. They can really only be appreciated on the back of a horse. I began competing through Pony Club and then moved on to the NCEC, where I continued until I finished school. I attended Woolgoolga Primary and High School then went on to study at UNE to complete my Education Degree with a double major. I started studying Human Nutrition at UNE, and this is where my interest in health began. Teaching has always been a very big passion of mine, and it was one of the things I always wanted to do. After I finished uni I was blessed with the birth of my son. He is my world and has become my biggest teacher. The most rewarding thing in the world is being a 58 coffs coast focus.
parent, and I am grateful ZUMBA to being If I can help to every day. It also helps that an MMA fitness le peop ing ild bu e th nd he is totally amazing! coach (and more ta unders then , th al he r fo ks After my son was born, in between) - with bloc will be ey th lly fu pe ho I started a promotional these completely to be able to use this company so I could work different types of in y th happy and heal more from home, as fi tness training, the themselves .” ultimately my main goal in variety has allowed life is to spend as much time me to gain a greater as possible with my son and knowledge of the fitness family. The promotional company industry and helps me to gave me flexible hours as well as being able deliver a wide range of training to help guys and girls get into the industry techniques to my clients and the and modelling. I was blessed to work with members of the club. many local businesses, as well as major I never would have thought I would own companies including Suntory, Bundaburg, a health club, but I have found that teaching Sunsilk and Kia, as well as at major events people about their health and seeing them including Indy, Country Music Festival and succeed and overcome their health and Bathurst. personal challenges is what brought me I closed my promotional business once I into the industry. Also, remembering that finished my study through the Australian Beachbodies’ members are reaching their Design Academy and started working as an goals and enjoying their hour of power makes interior decorator. It was perfect timing, as those 4:30am winter starts all worth it! my son started more weekend activities that You’re in the process of studying and I wanted to attend, yet I still wanted to have you have many qualifications - what is it the flexibility of working hours through the that you’re currently studying, and why week to attend school events etc. is knowledge particularly important for As many of you know, I now own you? Beachbodies Health club, which was started I have been accepted into the Australian just over five years ago, and it has been an Institute of Applied Science to further my amazing and very rewarding experience. education in Health, as I am also passionate I have gained many fitness qualification about helping people to be the best that during that time, with everything from they can be and educating people. Health is
“
such a large area that effects everybody, and we are flooded with information about the latest crazy or fad diet - if I can help people to understand the building blocks for health, then hopefully they will be able to use this to be happy and healthy in themselves. It has been very interesting and also challenging to go back to study as well as juggle the other things in my life. If anybody has a spare hour in their day that they would like to give me, I would appreciate it. A busy working mum, what do you do in your downtime? In my down time (which is very rare) I love to catch up with my friends and we either end up doing a yoga class, watching the kids play while we chat or enjoying a quiet night on the couch watching a movie. I also enjoy spending time with my loved ones and taking my dogs to the beach. Sunday seems to be the family favourite … A late breakfast at the local coffee shops is always on the agenda, with a side of bacon for the dogs of course. What’s on the agenda for the next three, five, ten years? The last five years, to say the least, have been interesting, rewarding and challenging. The next five years I have a feeling are going to be very exciting, with some wonderful events and magical experiences. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds. Thanks Renee.
B O DY C O N T OU R I N G
G
AFTER MASSIVE WEIGHT LOSS A N D T H E “ M U M M Y M A K E OV E R ”
radual weight gain is an insidious process, which over time leads to a massive increase in weight and girth and clothes size. When this is the result of a pregnancy, the change occurs over a relatively short period of time in a young woman, and hence a reversal is often seen. Massive weight gain, unrelated to pregnancy, in an older individual, does not have a reversal point, such as the delivery of a baby in a pregnancy. The weight gain goes on for a lot longer till something makes the individual take stock of the situation, and then attempt to reverse it. By now it is a major and diffuse problem, affecting all parts of the body, the face and neck, the trunk and especially the abdomen and both upper and lower limbs, with fat accumulation accompanied by significant drooping of tissues. A careful assessment and treatment plan is now required. PRIORITISATION AND A PLAN OF MANAGEMENT The correction usually starts with the abdomen and the trunk. A radical abdominoplasty (“tummy tuck“) is necessary to improve the front of the abdomen, sometimes in combination with a circumferential belt lipectomy, which takes care of the flanks and waist / upper gluteal areas. A Mons Pubis (the hair-bearing upper part of the vulva)
reduction with liposuction and lipectomy is done at the same time. In addition, liposuction is done to reduce fat accumulation in the upper anterior abdominal wall, the flanks and in the trochanteric (upper side of thigh / “saddlebags“) areas. If liposuction is not required, a radical abdominoplasty can be combined with breast augmentation, using implants for correction of breast ptosis (droop) , as well as a brachioplasty (correction of droopy lower arms or “bat wings“) or a medial thigh lift. If the breast tissue droop and stretch is excessive, breastreduction surgery would be required as a first stage, and to be followed up by breast augmentation as a secondary procedure. Sometimes, due to the number of areas needing correction, surgery may have to be staggered, with two sessions about 3 months apart, with each operation limited to 6 to 8 hours and with postoperative care in a hospital setting. Postoperative management and care is critical, as also the use of postoperative compression garments and the restriction of activities. These major procedures need a patient to be in good general health and the acceptance that there will always be the need for some revision surgery.
coffs coast focus.
59
focusinterview.
Baringa Rehabilitation We’ll Get You Moving
NATASHA ATKIN
SENIOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
T
ell me about yourself? I grew up on a property near Glen Innes and holidayed in Sawtell all my life. I have lived in Coffs Harbour and Sawtell for 17 years, and am now married with two children and enjoy spending time at the beach with my family and having an opportunity to go camping when we can. In Year 10 I completed a work experience program with an Occupational Therapist at Baringa Private Hospital and loved it; it was then that I set a goal to become an Occupational Therapist and work at Baringa. I graduated from Sydney University in 1998 and obtained a position just prior to that in Occupational Rehabilitation and later became the Occupational Rehabilitation Manager; I had achieved my goal. I am now the Senior Occupational Therapist and am currently based in the inpatient rehabilitation unit. What areas of Occupational Therapy have you worked in? Working in a regional area has given me the opportunity to work and specialise in all areas of Occupational Therapy, some of which have included: inpatient and day rehabilitation, occupational rehabilitation, Department of Veterans Affairs RAP, paediatrics, mental health, surgical, medical, thermoplastic splinting and upper limb therapy and pain management. What is the most rewarding aspect of Occupational Therapy? I enjoy the interaction of working with patients and helping them to achieve their goals by improving their function and independence.
ALYCE LOCKE
T
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
ell me about yourself? I grew up in the Woolgoolga area, moved to the Gold Coast to study Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at Southern Cross University Gold Coast. I graduated from university in 2013 and was amongst the second cohort to finish the degree. I’m now completing a post graduate degree in paediatrics and am halfway through. I then went travelling to the UK and Europe and saw snow for the first time. I was thrilled to experience the different cultures of Europe and loved the way people live in day-to-day in France. After a wonderful time of travelling, I returned to the coast to settle and begin my career as an Occupational Therapist. What is the most rewarding aspect of Occupational Therapy? I was previously working in Aged Care working with individuals in pain management. I am now fairly new to Baringa Rehabilitation and enjoy the challenge of multiple areas experienced in the Occupational Therapy team. The most rewarding aspect for me is working with individuals and their families to achieve their rehabilitation goals and learning innovative therapies that encompass the individual’s strengths.
LAUREN CURTIS SPEECH THERAPIST
T
ell me about yourself? I was born in Macksville but have lived in Coffs Harbour all my life. I moved to Newcastle to study Speech Therapy at Newcastle University and completed my degree in 2012.
I love the coast and everything it has to offer, especially the uncrowded beaches. I have a love of the sea and have been attempting to become a surfer for a while; I’m still practicing. What areas of Speech Therapy have you worked in? I have been working at Baringa Rehabilitation for 12 months now in acute and outpatient paediatrics and mental health services. Prior to Baringa Rehabilitation, I worked in aged care. What is the most rewarding aspect of Speech Therapy? I find it very rewarding helping people to regain communication after a stroke. This entails many aspects of helping a person recover and regain confidence, to get back their social skills and independence.
If you want to know more about the services and programs run at Baringa Rehabilitation, contact them on 6658 0322.
60 coffs coast focus.
coffs coast focus.
61
By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club
COFFS physiotherapy & backcare
I
In Pursuit of Excellence Common Hand Injuries
sn’t it funny how a single person sometimes can have huge impact on your life? My French teacher in high school was one such person. She would frequently state: “If something is worth doing, it’s worth doing well!” That one-liner has ended up my mantra, and it is interesting to see Sean, our son, professionally has taken up the same “call to arms”. It is this passion and drive to achieve improved, longer term results for our clients that sets us apart from the rest - what’s the difference, do I hear you ask? Read on ... Sean and I use a specific style of manual therapy developed by Karltenborn in Europe over four decades ago and popularised throughout Europe and Canada ever since. This approach uses research based biomechanical principles on how joints move and muscles interact to analyse and treat musculoskeletal problems. It involves many manual treatment techniques, whilst continually evaluating the effects these have on the symptoms. It may include any manual therapy symptom relieving technique, joint mobilisation, soft tissue and nerve tissue mobilisation, specialised exercises and self-treatment. The real gem in this style of approach is that it focuses on getting to the real source of the person’s problem. This can result not just in quicker results, but longer lasting outcomes, or resolve an issue that has resisted previous treatment attempts. For example, a sprained foot or ankle left stiff can
62 coffs coast focus.
NECOLE ELLIO
INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW
Vive la Difference!
result in compensations in the knee and hip, a mild rotation in the back and end with a sore neck and headaches. Treating the neck directly may give symptom relief in the short term; however, it is only by treating the source of the problem [i.e. the foot/ankle] that long term control can be restored. I chose this specific style of physiotherapy to undertake in my Post Graduate Masters degree 15 years ago, whilst Sean has travelled over to Canada on several occasions for his training last year. It is the use of this approach from which we draw our Clinic’s promise: “We provide solutions, not bandaids”. People often say to us, “You love your job; you can tell”. And yes, we do. This approach does take more “brain power” and effort, but that is the commitment we have to our clients. But we haven’t stopped there - I have just achieved my International Hand Therapy Accreditation [specialising in treatment and assessment of the shoulder/elbow/hand], whilst both Sean and I continue to travel nationally and internationally to conferences and courses, upgrading our knowledge and skills and to remain at the cutting edge of the most effective treatment techniques. So hopefully, my old French teacher would be happy with her ex-student, whilst we strive to continually deliver our unique approach to people of Coffs region, and as she would say: “Vive la Difference!”
40 year old Childcare Professional and Weight Loss Success Story. Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Jo. This month we are catching up with Necole Elliott and her Weight Loss Coach/Personal Trainer Simone Saunders, to hear her inspiring story.
B
efore joining Healthy Inspirations, what was your weight management background? I wasn’t really into diets as such and thought they were too hard to stick to. I started making small changes like cutting junk food out and chocolate; I lost two kilos this way. My sister, Monique, also helped me with portion control etc. as she’s a doctor. How has your weight management changed since joining Healthy Inspirations? Dramatically, I’ve lost 15 kilograms. I was 90 kg when I started Healthy Inspirations. So how did you go about making that positive change? Simply signing up for Healthy Inspirations and starting to train with Simone. Did you find the support from Healthy Inspirations (Simone) helped you achieve your goals? Definitely; Simone is very encouraging. She believed I could do it and even when I didn’t lose any weight or put on a little, she would tell me to put it behind me and re-focus on my goals. What goals have you achieved so far in weight loss? I’ve achieved my first goal of getting down to 80 kg and my second goal of getting to 75 kg. Did you find the Healthy Inspirations lifestyle change easy to follow? Like a lot of things, it involves discipline, motivation and hard work. Writing everything you eat down in the journal makes you accountable to someone if you didn’t lose weight one week. Simone would know why, because everything I ate would be recorded in the journal. It was a little embarrassing at times when Simone would write down all the bad
food in her records, though. What goals have you achieved with your fitness? I think generally more toned, I feel fitter, and I don’t think I get so out of breath when exercising now. How has your exercise changed since joining Coffs Coast Health Club and doing Personal Training with Simone? I’m enjoying my exercise more these days and especially my Personal Training with Simone. It doesn’t get boring at all. Simone keeps it interesting, mixing it up. Simone encourages me. I enjoy the group exercise classes sometimes too. How does your new healthy lifestyle change help you with every day to day activities? Since losing the weight, I’ve become much more confident in my own skin. I actually like myself now. It’s helped me make new friends, as you have to love yourself to love others. I’ve got more energy to play with kids at work. My whole life has changed, and I know that may sound like a cliché, but it has - there’s no stopping me now. The Healthy Inspirations lifestyle is definitely something I want to maintain for the rest of my life. I mean, naturally I’m going to break it from time to time and have treats every now and then, but at least I’m mindful of them now. Thanks for sharing, Necole, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at Coffs Coast Health Club. You can also contact our reception team on 6658 6222 or Simone on 0402 202 864 to get started today.
focusinterview.
M A S T E R
B U I L D E R
I CAUGHT UP RECENTLY WITH LOCAL IDENTITY AND MASTER BUILDER BRIAN HOPWOOD FROM BRIAN HOPWOOD HOMES, FONDLY KNOWN AS HOPPY, AND CHATTED ABOUT HIS LATEST PROJECTS AND WHAT SETS HIM APART FROM HIS COMPETITORS. e are excited to have our new display home at Pearl Estate now open weekly from Wednesday to Sunday. People can have a walk through and see for themselves the quality of a Brian Hopwood home. We are renowned for our upmarket homes, but also cater for the market demand and have a great range for the first home buyers and investor alike. We are able to give clients the choice of building with steel or timber frames. Our house and land packages at Sawtell Park Estate have been a great success; we have already sold eight and we have two packages left to sell, ready to start straight away - the price starting at $465,000. We are hoping to secure more land in Moonee in the next few months, so we can then offer quality house and land packages north of the city. Our office at 101 West High Street now includes a display centre, so it is much easier for the clients, whether they be previous home
builders or a first home buyer or investor, to The big thing is that we are competitive and view the range of products available from the we pride ourselves on making sure all costs one spot. are disclosed upfront, so there are no surprises For the upmarket custom homes, these later on. Our specialty is custom design homes, clients go out with Nat, our colour and a custom design home does not mean an specialist/client services manager, expensive home. as she assists them in their It means that we sit down and selections from kitchen take the time to design the I said that designs through to patio right house for the right meeting with tiles. block for the right client. at I me means than The most critical Recently I had a d will be open ill thing for me is to couple come in and honest, as it w k on meet with my clients they presented me with ac only come b g is each week on site and a plan, but it was not in th me if any ry ve make sure they are right for the block, so I am I t! ec incorr e th f o t happy with the progress redesigned it and said to ar p a much of their home. If I am them that is everything that .” ss ce ro p unavailable for any reason, you wanted, but reaaranged then our new site supervisor around a different way! They Andre Battig is here to fill that role. absolutely loved it! I won’t tell Andre is very experienced in cottage people what they have to have, but I will construction and commercial work and he suggest what might work well for them but has hit the ground running at a very busy at the end of the day, it is the client’s house time and doing a great job managing the many and we go with what they want. Because I homes we currently are building. have built so many houses, I will always apply
“
my experience to each and every job. I had a client say to me the other day, “So, we will actually meet with you to discuss the design?” And I said, “Of course!” They were really happy, as they said that they had only spoken to salespeople and they were tired of that. I said that meeting with me means that I will be open and honest, as it will only come back on me if anything is incorrect! I am very much a part of the process. I am able to build a house after 40 years, so I am able to back up what I say. As they say, “Experience isn’t costly; it’s priceless”. The other extra on offer is that there is always an onsite estimator, Mark, so that questions can be answered on the spot from our office if Brian is not here. We are a one stop shop. We are very proud of our personal service and because we are not a production line type of builder, we have the time to attend to each and every client. Come in and experience the personal service at Brian Hopwood Homes. coffs coast focus.
63
focusinterview.
The bcu Coffs Tri returns to Coffs Harbour on 7-8 March. Event organiser, Village Sports, is thrilled that everyday people are taking on a personal challenge which benefits both themselves and our local community. Village Sports caught up with five
inspiring locals who have stepped well out of their comfort zones and set themselves a goal by entering the headline Olympic distance event for the very first time.
bcu Coffs Tri Olympic race start 2014
bcu Coffs Tri location (ST Images)
Marg Roberts crossing the finish line in last year’s Enticer triathlon. (courtesy of NashysPix)
Tracie Paton on the cycle leg of last year’s Enticer triathlon. (courtesy of NashysPix)
bcu Coffs Tri location (Sinclair Black)
64 coffs coast focus.
focusinterview.
A
ll five are members of the Coffs Harbour Triathlon Club and relatively new to the sport of triathlon, and each of these individuals has their own personal reason for embarking on the challenging 1.5 km harbour swim, 40 km cycle and 10 km run around the Jetty foreshores. Sarah Armstrong, a busy architect and mum, will be doing her very first Olympic distance triathlon in March. “It is great to have something to aim towards outside of kids and work!” she said. She is looking forward to the challenge and being part of a major local triathlon event. Tracie Paton’s motivation came from being involved in the event last year as a volunteer, and after watching both friends and strangers from all over the country compete, she thought, "Ok, next year I'm going to give this distance a go - even though I thought they were mad at the time!” With her children now grown up, she said it’s never been a better time to set personal challenges and for her and her husband to take the time to do things for themselves. Other motivators for the couple are supporting the local triathlon club community and continuing to be positive role models for their kids: “We want to encourage them to give anything a go and reinforce that it’s not important where you are placed, but to enjoy the experience.” Margaret Roberts will also be lining up at
the bcu Coffs Tri for her first Olympic distance encourages and is proud of. attempt. “I won't be racing for a podium finish Jen Booth is another local mum and full-time - just to show myself what I am capable of,” teacher who is new to the sport of triathlon. said Margaret. Her first triathlon was the shorter “I've signed up to the long course bcu Tri this bcu Enticer in 2013. She joined year after having a go at the short the local triathlon club a few course last year. I have only been months later and is now doing triathlons for about 18 hooked. “I have been months and was initially bers All five are mem ur slowly building my roped in by a girlfriend bo of the Coffs Har distances,” she who was celebrating and Triathlon Club said, “and this her 40th birthday by t or the sp relatively new to ch year I thought I attempting one of ea of triathlon, and s has would challenge the local club races. al of these individu reason myself in the We started doing al on rs their own pe e th Olympic distance on short course club g in for embark rbour ha km event. The 1.5 g triathlons and have in ng challe and e cl cy whole family will km stepped up to the 40 , swim nd the Jetty be competing in long course this year. 10 km run arou different events over foreshores .” We’ve had a great time the weekend, just as and met some really lovely they did last year.” people, and I've never felt so Husband Peter Roberts fit and healthy. I'm not sure I'm has taken part in the shorter ready for an Olympic distance tri yet, Enticer event for the past two years and but Marg and I are of the thought that we volunteered last year for the Olympic cannot let each other do these crazy things by event, cheering on the Coffs Tri Club ourselves, so we are both in it together.” members. It was then that he decided he Village Sports Event Director, Sinclair Black, wanted to step up to the major event in 2015. said, “It’s great to see people set goals and “I thought, if they can do it, so can I.” Which get so much out of the sport. It can be quite is a familiar attitude amongst new competitors addictive because you always think you are every year, and one that the Village Sports Team capable of going that bit further or faster and
“
you’re really only racing yourself, so it can be very rewarding personally.” “We are also very excited from a tourism perspective to be incorporating the new southern break wall into the Olympic distance run leg this year. The view from there is quite spectacular looking back towards Coffs, and it’s a great way for visitors to see our beautiful town from that unique perspective.” As well as being open to individuals, the Olympic distance race is open to teams, where competitors can opt to do one or two legs each. If the Olympic distance event is not your cup of tea, there is also a shorter “enticer” event and races for children on offer. The bcu Coffs Tri weekend is all about participation and fun. “We always like to reinforce to all competitors, especially kids, that participating in events like this is a great thing to do for both yourself, and for our community, with proceeds going to important causes,” said Sinclair. Every competitor in the bcu Coffs Tri will also be giving back to the community just by taking part. Proceeds from the event will be donated to local surf clubs, St John Ambulance and the SES crews, who are involved in ensuring a safe event for all competitors. To enter and for more information, visit www. villagesports.com.au coffs coast focus.
65
ESTABLISHED & SONS - $249 PENDANT TORCHES www.simonjamesdesign.com
focus
TIME LIGHTING
MARBLE CLOCK - $550 www.houzz.com
JACKET PENDANT BLUE $249 www.domayne.com.au
BLOW UP WALL CLOCK - $395 ALESSI www.royaldesign.com
LINEAR FLORA WALL CLOCK SMALL - $45 www.mattblatt.com.au
NEWGATE KENSINGTON CLOCK - $19.95 EARLY SETTLER
66 coffs coast focus focus.
DREAM 8 LT CHROME CRYSTAL CHANDELIER - $999 CETNAJ
WIRE FRAME PENDANT - $95 www.loftfurniture.com.au
FAROL LIGHTING - $POA www.bowlesandlinares.co.uk
ST JAMES PENDANT $89 small Large $129 www.domayne.com.au
SPIRAL WALL CLOCK - $195 www.mattblatt.com.au
WIRE FRAME PENDANT - $95 www.loftfurniture.com.au
REPLICA GEORGE NELSON BALL CLOCK - $59 www.replicafurniture.com.au
STEVE NEW AND FAMILY HAVE BEEN A LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BUSINESS SERVICING OUR REGION FOR TEN YEARS…
GREAT GARDENS LANDSCAPING
• GR E AT GA R DENS •
landscaping S T E V E
N E W
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED Great Gardens Landscaping has been operational for over ten years … Beginning in 2004, owner Steve New’s first project was The Summit at Coffs Harbour, the residential development on Mastracolas Rd, Coffs Harbour. From there, the team went on to complete the landscaping for various schools in our region, hospitals, police stations, business premises, highway revegetation and residential estates. On any given day Steve and his three children can be found working and running the family business. Chris New is the construction and project manager and specialises in excavation and earth works. Daughter Belinda Fisher (née New) runs the admin arm of the business, and youngest son Tim, who is completing certificate three in Horticultural whilst managing the onsite nursery, is a great asset to the business. Paul Baker is the residential landscape manager; with special interest in stonemasonry Formal and Informal, Paul has been a part of the company for two years. The Company also comprises 6 landscape tradesman / labourers and our maintenance team to keep our projects looking great post completion.
68 coffs coast focus.
COMMERCIAL PROJECTS During our 10 years in business we have worked on various projects. We are proud of all our work, but we are especially pleased with the recently completed Coffs Harbour Justice Precinct. Other recent projects worth mentioning are the new Bunnings Warehouse, Raleigh Aged Care Facility, Dorrigo Essential Energy, Armidale Hospital, Wauchope Hospital, Masters Taree and Lismore, Manning River Foreshore Upgrade, Brewarrina Family Centre, and we work on The Summit Apartments in an ongoing capacity.
INTERESTING FACTS Some of our projects have fascinating facts; for example, the Coffs Harbour Justice Centre had 46,000 plants installed, which we sourced from nurseries in NSW, QLD, VIC and WA. This project comprised over 2000 m³ of soil, and an irrigation system was installed to allow watering to all gardens, roof gardens, carparks and gardens at the front of the police station and court house. With over 120 tonnes of gravel added to the roof garden, the whole project was a group effort, with our ten staff working tirelessly over a four month period. In 2015 we are excited to be working on the new Masters, St Patricks Primary School at Macksville, the Urunga to Nambucca Heads Highway Upgrade.
RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS With our extensive experience and knowledge in commercial landscaping, we are now offering our services to residential clients. We can help our clients turn their outdoor areas into beautiful gardens they will be proud of for many years to come. For that very special project, we can engage a landscape architect for any type of major design work.
RESIDENTIAL SERVICES All aspects of Structural Landscape Design and Construction, including: • New Gardens & Edging
• Retaining Walls & Rock Walls
• Stonemasonry & Paving
• Decks, Pergolas, Screens & Gazebos
• Water Features
• Fencing
• Irrigation Systems
• Pool Surrounds
coffs coast focus.
69
focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Consulting
S
chellea and Kris, your background is quite diverse. How did you come to call Emerald Beach home? Schellea: We are originally from Cronulla, South of Sydney, or “The Shire”, as many would refer to it as. It’s a gorgeous place not unlike Coffs Harbour, but is much bigger now. Kris and I met when we were young and have been together ever since. It seems like we’ve always been in business together, some 28 years now. We first owned a café in Cronulla and ran it seven days a week, and after some time sold it and purchased another. When we were ready to take a break, we sold up, packed everything and took a year off travelling around Australia, camping with our kids. It was an amazing trip, and it was also when we first came across Emerald Beach and the Park. We rolled into the Park, looking like ferals from the bush and really enjoyed our stay and the picturesque beauty of Emerald - so much so, that we spoke to the owners about whether they would consider selling the park. And well, you can guess what the answer was! Emerald Beach is one of the Coffs Coast’s hidden gems. Tell us a little about the Holiday Park and what is has to offer guests? Kris: We absolutely love Emerald Beach. It’s a stunning spot to call home. With its beautiful beaches, Look at me Now headland complete with kangaroos and some great local eats as well, it really is a hidden gem. Our holiday park has grown from strength to strength over the decade or so that we have owned it. At its core is our guests and ensuring that their stay is the best it can be. Second to this, is preserving the integrity of the natural beauty and wildlife that call the park home. Quite often our guests are greeted by friendly wallabies or lorikeets and with our beach front location, the surf and water play is close and convenient too. Over the years we have invested significantly in upgrading the facilities and services to include 70 coffs coast focus.
luxury 4.5 star cabins, Jungle Jive indoor soft play centre, pancake Wednesday, movie room, kids’ games centre, barista coffee, spa massages, a year round kids’ activity programme and so much more. We really pride ourselves on the overall guest experience. Recently, you were successful recipients of a tourism funding grant. What is this about, and what will the funding be used for? Schellea: Yes, we are so excited about it. We were successful recipients of the Destination NSW Regional Visitor Economy Fund, which exists to improve the tourism product and experiences in NSW. Predominately, it’s all about doubling tourism expenditure by 2020. It was our third attempt to secure funding through the tourism funding available, so we are thrilled to have received the call from Andrew Fraser MP to tell us the good news. We received a grant for $295,000 to contribute towards the development of a new Kids’ Water Play Park facility at the park, which is a total investment of $700,000. It is designed to be a source of fun and enjoyment for every member of the family, promoting pure play, entertainment, social and cross-generational interaction, contemplation and relaxation. And we are really looking forward to welcoming our guests and visitors to experience the fun once it is completed later this year. Over the years, you have continually invested in new facilities and experiences at the park. What has inspired you to do so? Kris: We really enjoy seeking out new opportunities to be more creative in how we provide our services, market our business or improve the overall guest experience. Our focus is on continually improving and creating something that families will enjoy and get a real buzz from. I guess you could say that our inspiration really comes from our guests, the people who really count and experience our park first hand. They (along with our staff) have inspired a great deal of the changes, developments and improvements to the park over the past decade. Our customers are a million times savvier these
days. Their expectations have shifted to want part to our success. more from their holidays, and Holiday Parks in What trends are you seeing in the tourism particular have had to grow and innovate signifisector at current? cantly to cater to great guest expectations - and Schellea: Overall, I think guest expectations are will continue to. changing and evolving. People expect more from Just how important is customer service? their stay, and if you aren’t willing to offer value Schellea: It is our number adds and more experiences, one priority. then there are plenty of placAs I have mentioned, es that will. So it’s important Overall I think guest the guest experience is to stay ahead of the pack expectations are everything for us. So we and be looking for new and changing and evolving. People expect more from invest in the training and brilliant ways to wow guests their stay, and if you aren’t development of our staff and give them what they willing to offer value adds as well as park facilities want. and more experiences, then to continue to wow our The way people see the there are plenty of places guests. We have service tourism sector has dramatthat will. So it’s important to standards which we live stay ahead of the pack and be ically changed, with the and breathe. Not a phone popularity of online third looking for new and brilliant call goes unanswered; every party travel sites, online ways to wow guests and give guest is treated like our best marketing, and social media them what they want.” customer. We also believe sites. We have seen a big that core to our success is shift with reviewer sites like the fact that we connect with our guests, talk Trip Advisor and other review platforms. So, with them, check that they are happy and having moving forward, we must adapt to the changing a good time and let them know that we are here environment by managing our sites and customer to help. feedback as well as creating current, informative We also ensure that guest feedback is captured content and implementing new and exciting through stay surveys and talking to our guests ideas for the park. upon check in/out to make them feel valued What are your hot tips for running a successand to hear their opinions. Our motto is to “give ful business? them more than they expect” and treat each Kris: When you’re in a partnership with your guest as if they were a guest in our own home. wife, it’s important to share the decisions and enWhat are the key things you look for when hance each other’s best skills. So if we have a big hiring staff? decision to make, we rate it out of 10 in terms of Kris: Attitude, Attitude, Attitude. our passion for the decision and whomever really That is what it’s about. You can’t create a great has the most passion for the decision wins. It’s a attitude in others; it’s not something learnt - it’s really simple system, but because our values are something that a person either chooses to have aligned and we trust each other, it works every or doesn’t have. One thing I’ve learnt is havtime. ing the right people, with the right attitude, is Schellea: Opposite minds also helps. So I’m crucial for the success of any business. We have a creative and Kris is has an analytical mind; he surrounded ourselves with an amazing team, leaves me to the creative decisions and I leave from the people we spend every day with here at him to the financial/ operational ones. It’s all the park, to our accounts, marketing, banking, about compromise and trust. suppliers and trades team, who are also a pivotal Thanks Schellea and Kris.
“
Are you under 18? then...
and not returning to school in 2015?
is for
YOU!
• Getting Ready for Work Program • Accredited Training 4 days a week • Flexible, fun learning environment • Great alternative to school for kids who need support
for more info contact Simon at
% coffs coast focus.
71
focus_tourism
focusinterview.
with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.
meet a
local.
Dan + EMILY
THE OBSERVATORY HOLIDAY APARTMENTS
UPDATE THIS WEEK WE HAVE HAD REPRESENTATIVES FROM VIRGIN AUSTRALIA TRAVEL TO THE COFFS COAST TO SPEAK WITH BUSINESS LEADERS AND ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVES IN REGARDS TO THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A BRISBANE TO COFFS SERVICE.
T
he Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce hosted a breakfast meeting, which gave us the opportunity to display our need for a Brisbane
to Coffs Harbour service. Many people spoke about the
also give us the ability to attract conference groups, sporting groups (both professional and school groups) as well as new events. This would also open the door for our current events to attract new visitors to the region that are currently out of reach due to such a service not being
overwhelming costs of sending staff to Brisbane via Sydney for meetings and training. The support from the Coffs Harbour community was overwhelming, and it
available. New markets for
As 90% of our market from es , a Queensland driv ne to ba is Br om fr e servic ce the du re ld ou w ffs Co in pe ak fic af tr amount of Pacific e th om fr sessions Highway.”
“
was the largest crowd that has ever attended a Chamber of Commerce breakfast. I would like to thank all of the Tourism Industry members who
our established business community would emerge for them to take advantage of and give them an opportunity for expansion. Let’s not forget that this would also give us the opportunity to attend
events and an alternative option to travel to Brisbane instead of Sydney or
attended, as your support was greatly
Melbourne recreational purposes.
appreciated, and we all hope that it will
As 90% of our market from Queensland
sway Virgin to sign off on such a service for
drives, a service from Brisbane to Coffs
our region.
would reduce the amount of traffic in peak
I had the opportunity to discuss with them
sessions from the Pacific Highway.
the great potential that lies north of the
I know you will agree that no matter from
border for our local tourism industry if such
what line of business you are in, that a
a flight service existed. Not only would this
Brisbane to Coffs Harbour flight would open
increase access for our leisure market, but
up a new world for the Coffs Coast.
72 coffs coast focus.
S
ince taking over the business always looking at ways to make our guests’ in early 2014 - how have you stay more enjoyable and strive to provide all enjoyed it? What changes of the services they need. have you implemented? Rooms are spacious, beds are big and These last 12 months have comfortable and some rooms even have been a learning curve and we have faced spas big enough for two! What type of lots of challenges, but we have loved it! guest do you cater for? The challenges we have faced We cater for people from all and experience we have walks of life - families, couples gained have been on a romantic getaway, amazing. The corporate guests and vast amount even singles just we We like to think of people we looking for a bit of e on th have continued have also met a break away from e ent Th friendly environm ments are has been home. We are rt O bservatory Apa are always fantastic, also an assistance e renowned for. W make our to s and we enjoy dog friendly looking at way bl e ya jo en e or m finding out establishment. guests’ stay ide all of about their We all know the and strive to prov ed .” ne the services they travels and how old saying “guests they are enjoying are like raw fish; their time here. two days and it has We have also to go”! What would you joined several new say to someone who has booking websites, and this relatives in town and they don’t has definitely increased our traffic want to host them at their home? (both for The Observatory Holiday Tell them to stay with us! That way, they Apartments website and phone are still close enough to visit anytime, whilst calls, which has resulted in guests booking also being in close proximity to all of the accommodation with us) and has helped us shops, services and gorgeous sights to see be able to reach a wider audience. in Coffs Harbour (so you don’t need to We have a wonderful team, without entertain them all the time either!). whom we would not be able to achieve the high standards of service and cleanliness our the plug! guests have come to know us for. The Observatory Holiday Apartments It’s such a nice place to stay and play; what type of environment have you 30-36 Camperdown Street, created? Coffs Harbour. We like to think we have continued on 1300 302 776 the friendly environment The Observatory www.theobservatory.com.au Apartments are renowned for. We are
“
GARdinerAVE children’s centre M E E T O U R N E W E D U C AT I O N A L L E A D E R N I C O L E AT G A R D I N E R AV E N U E C H I L D R E N ’ S C E N T R E
educators is essential as children begin to understand sustainability, the systems that support life and why caring for the land, plants and animals
N
icole has recently joined our team, moving from the Northern Territory to support the delivery of the educational program at Gardiner Ave. Nicole is Diploma Qualified, currently working towards obtaining her
Bachelor of Education and Care in Early Childhood. Gardiner Avenue Children’s Centre provides quality care and education for children aged 2 - 5 years. Our opening
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
Gardiner Avenue re Children’s Cent an d re ca ity provides qual n re ild ch r fo education O ur aged 2 - 5 ye ars. 8am – e ar s ur ho g in open open for e ar 6pm , and we ar. ” 50 weeks per ye
“
and ourselves matters. We know that educational leadership significantly impacts on learning programmes 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
learning. Using children’s interests
within our centre.
hours are 8am - 6pm, and we are open for 50 weeks per
as the basis for our curriculum decision
Shelley is our Director and Nominated
year. We have a unique environment, having three educators
making helps to ensure that learning is not
supporting a group of 18 children.
only interesting, but also meaningful and relevant to
Families that enrol with us often comment on our “homelike” atmosphere, as our indoor setting has quite a homely
children. Our team of staff play a significant role in offering
and relaxed feel about it, making the transition from home to
children direct experiences with nature and being positive
childcare a smooth transition.
role models. They not only wonder, but also respect and care
Our educators are experienced in early childhood education
for our natural environment. This fundamental learning with
Supervisor at Gardiner Ave; Shelley has been a member of our team for seven years, offering valuable knowledge and support to our families, children, educators and members of the broader community. Shelley will be more than happy to answer any question you may have! If you would like an opportunity to visit our centre, please call Shelley on (02) 6652 2121.
coffs coast focus.
73
focuseditorial with Melly Shute, Editor
Rose Hill B & B
R E V I E W
My husband, Christopher, and I were recently invited to stay at the Rose Hill Cottage. An overnight stay at Rose Hill Cottage was tonic for the soul. ose Hill Cottage, located on the scenic Orara Way, is in a region well known for lush, green countryside, freshly farmed organic produce and majestic wide, open spaces. Poised a stone’s throw past Nana Glen, Rose Hill Cottage is situated on Steve and Val New’s stunning 100 acre property. The actual cottage embodies the very best of this area, providing a tranquil experience - a chance to escape the rat race and spend some quality time together. An Elton John song comes on the radio as we enter the Rose Hill Cottage grounds; my romantic husband must have hit the play button, but he tells me otherwise: “This should set the tone for the weekend,” he says with a wink. It is the perfect welcome. We proceed up a long driveway passing various breeds of beautiful chickens, manicured gardens and Steve and Val’s beautiful home to the left. Steve and Val tell me they have only had the property for a couple of years after moving from Sapphire because Val, a lady of the land, craved a property lifestyle. The property comprises their home and a bed and breakfast style separate cottage with 360 degree vistas of farmland; the property breathes relaxation. Upon arriving, we were warmly welcomed by our hosts and shown to the cottage,where a nice bottle of red wine welcomed us. We unpacked, freshened 74 coffs coast focus.
up and met Val and Steve in the recently built cabana overlooking the lap pool. With bushwalking tracks aplenty, this really was the most romantic getaway any girl could ask for. The cottage itself comprises everything The property you would expect for comprises a country escape: offered either a hot cooked breakfast me and a bed ho r thei beautifully chosen e yl st t or a continental style breaky hamper. and breakfas e with pieces of furniture, When Chris and I holiday, we separate cottag as of homewares that 360 degree vist are generally after good food, operty have all been hand farmland; the pr friendly service, walks and activities, tion. ” picked by Val, French breathes relaxa so we need not leave. Steve and Val windows that open, delivered this perfectly. We would highly allowing the country air to recommend this for an overnight or weekend flow through the space like stay. You won’t want to leave. an invisible blanket of happiness. Linen was designer, and the super WEEKEND PACKAGE comfortable bed was the perfect ending 2 nights $299 to a day of unwinding. On a sunny day the 1 night $179 hammock overlooks the veggie garden, a place to MID WEEK PACKAGE swing and catch up on a favourite book. 2 nights $279 Val and Steve cooked us a delicious barbecue 1 night $125 dinner; they were wonderful company - like catching CONTACT ROSE HILL COTTAGE B&B up with your parents’ best friends. Should you wish 3303 ORARA WAY, KUNGALA to have a private stay, the cottage comes complete
“
with all the utensils one needs, and the cabana has a fully operational kitchen. In the morning we were
Phone. 6649 4774 0458 118 253
focus_travel
with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel
DISCOVER canada Eastern Canada is known for its spectacular natural beauty and rich farm land - which makes it a perfect destination for the Quadrant agricultural group visiting in June this year when the snow has melted, the weather is beautiful and views are spectacular!
Kerry Moss A date with melbourne Arguably Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne is undoubtedly the home of outstanding food and spectacular art; coupled with world class sporting events and superior sightseeing, if you haven’t been to Melbourne lately, then you’re really missing out.
I
t’s true that Melbourne is still home to many of the things we all know and love, like trams and football, but with its multiculturalism, edgy street art and limitless choices for extraordinary food, some say Melbourne has overtaken its nearest rivals. If it isn’t enough to be the cultural kings, then consider the blue-ribbon sporting events that Melbourne serves up each year. Many world events call Melbourne home and bring festivals and activities to accompany them. The Australian Open, a premier Grand Slam event on the world tennis calendar, has called Melbourne home since 1972, whilst 2015 will be the 54th year of the world’s oldest and most prestigious surfing event held annually at Bells Beach. Closer to home, Melbourne is home to a football culture like no other, where they proudly house 10 out of the 18 professional AFL teams. Melbourne is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in their food. You can find everything from street food through to the finest dining in the country, with a sample of every possible cuisine within walking distance of the food streets of Lygon St and St Kilda Rd. Take time to wander through the laneways and stop in at some of the country’s finest casual dining, or if you’re lucky (and rich) enough, then consider booking into Melbourne’s premier entertainment complex, Crown - the short-
Canada is a great country for beef cattle, so to provide an overall appreciation of Canada’s cattle industry, the group will visit a number of progressive beef operations in Ontario, which produces a quarter of Canada’s beef. In addition, there are some unusual operations including a cropping enterprise growing ginseng, tobacco and sweet potatoes, as well as fruit orchards and greenhouse enterprises. In the spectacular Rocky Mountains the tour travels along the Icefields Parkway, which National Geographic describes as “the most scenic highway in the world” and visits the Athabasca Falls before stopping at the Columbian Icefields to ride a SnoCoach over the moving 1,000 foot-thick Athabasca Glacier. Then it’s on to Banff, the highest town in
Canada. The highlight of the tour is Calgary and the Calgary Stampede. Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”, the Stampede offers all things agricultural and cultural, as well as the traditional side show alley, but there are also concerts and ring events, cattle judging, displays of local Indian history and plenty of unique Canadian food. An optional seven night Alaskan Cruise follows the Western Canada tour, where passengers can relax onboard whilst indulging in world-class restaurants, sipping a favourite after-dinner drink and mingling with new friends. There are opportunities to view amazing wildlife and scenery, meet the locals in historic Alaskan towns and relax and enjoy the myriad of entertainment and services on board. If you’d like to hear more about this tour or any of Quadrant’s special interest tours departing in 2015, drop in to see the team in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour, or visit their website at www.quadrantaustralia.com
term home to world renowned Chef, Heston Blumenthal, who has temporarily relocated his 3 Michelin star London restaurant, the Fat Duck. Within driving distance of Melbourne is some of the finest sightseeing in the country. Heritage listed and stretching 243 kilometres between the cities of Torquay and Allansford, The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s best coastal drives and the ideal viewing platform for the magical 12 Apostles. For an eclectic mix of stunning white beaches interposed with hi-octane motor sports, then don’t miss the opportunity to visit Phillip Island. Make the pilgrimage to the Penguin Parade to observe the penguins as they emerge from the sea and waddle across the beach to their sand dune burrows or soak up all the action at the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. Hire a car and escape from the city to indulge in the finery of the Yarra Valley food and wine region. Fine wines and local produce are housed in historic surrounds, all within easy reach from Melbourne. Or if luxury is on your mind (and budget), then consider spoiling yourself with gourmet food and indulgent accommodation in Daylesford, known for its natural mineral springs and fabulous local produce. With direct and affordable flights from Coffs Harbour, there is no better time to hop on board and explore Melbourne and all she has to offer. coffs coast focus.
75
s o c i a l s c e n e
with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs
Image Credit Emma Rhoades
Bill & Anne Hunter.
Celebrity Dance for Cancer Comittee.
Scott Crommentyn & Kate Heyward.
Anderson Family.
Greg & Louise Arthur.
Deb Anderson & Kim Holt.
Image Credit Emma Rhoades
Image Credit Emma Rhoades
Alice Williams.
Glen Barnett, Kristy Pursch, and Steve Allen.
Bett & Lee Kavanagh.
R
Social/scene.
ed roses and romantic dinners for the celebrators of Valentine’s Day. I took along the camera and my FOCUS hat and snapped some happy couples celebrating the day
of love! Certainly a different way to embrace Valentine’s Day was to gather your loved ones or friends and head on down to the Coffs Harbour Showground. Once there, you could settle down on a rug with a picnic and refreshments to enjoy the Newcastle Permanent’s “Cinema under the Stars”. The movie showing on the night was How to Train Your Dragon 2 - lots of fun! Once again First Avenue came alive with another Sawtell Summer Sessions evening. The street was closed for locals and certainly lots of the visitors attending the Oztag competition attended this popular event. All the eateries were open to tempt every palate to either dine in or take away. The boutiques and stores were open to peruse and maybe obtain a last minute Valentine’s present or order a beautiful bouquet from Flowers on First for that special someone. As usual, the median strip under the majestic Fig Trees of First Avenue was the favourite spot to throw down a rug and enjoy a take away or picnic. There were giant size games for the children and an enormous jumping castle. I love the look of the vibrantly happy and colourful chalk street art that is seen at every session. Only 76 coffs coast focus.
on the Coffs Coast could you close down a street and let the children play and draw pictures on the tarmac from one end of the road to the other. So lucky! The next one to look forward to is on Thursday 12th March and will be part of the Leukaemia Foundation’s “Shave for a Cure”. I hear all the local hairdressers, barbers and beauticians are lined up and ready to shave heads, dye hair or wax - all for a great cause. The town was packed to the max with the visitors and locals involved and attending the events connected to the Oztag Junior State Cup. The Coffs Coast is certainly achieving high times when it comes to sporting events! It was announced directly from the Football Federation Australia and Oztag Australia that they will be certainly returning to the Coffs C.ex International Stadium with their prized competitions for three more years. What an achievement. Coffs Harbour has hosted these championships since 2006. The National Youth Championships are FFA’s primary National Football Competition for the 13 and 14 year old boys and 13 and 15 year old girls. Certainly wonderful for Coffs Coast Tourism. A great night at Coffs C.ex just recently. It was the fifth annual Celebrity Dance for Cancer Gala fundraiser. Over 400 guests arrived dressed up to the nines all ready for the big night. Guests dined on tasty delights fit for a king - delicious oysters, prawns, hot and cold canapés, along with sweet treats complemented with a bubbles or two.
Love was in the air for many out and about around town just recently ... Guests got to enjoy fabulous dance performances by six local identities and their talented dance partners. To add to the entertainment, there was a splash of exhibition dances. The night itself was MC’d by EJ (2CS fm) and Alice Williams (Axis Print), and the ever-generous photographer for the event was Emma Rhoades. The event was opened by Mayor Denise Knight, along with 20 Council employees, who preformed a spontaneous “Flash Mob” complete with their hi vis vests! This well rehearsed routine choreographed by Julie Moss exploded onto the dance floor and wowed the audience with their dance routine to Moves like Jagger. The lineup of stars included a sensational opening Rock and Roll performance from Anthony Chouri (Café Aqua) and Sandy Smith (Razzle Dazzle Rockers). Shona Hunter (C.ex Group) danced a ballroom routine with Sean Heifford (Pacific Dance Centre, Glenda Halliwell (The Travel Centre) and Corrie Wade (Coffs Latin Rhythms) performed a mix of dance styles, Bec Gaile (Coffs Hire) with Carol Young (Woolgoolga Dance Studio) dazzled guests with an amazing musical theatre piece. Adam Cross from NSW Real Estate and Melissa Thompson from Pacific Dance Centre wowed the audience with Ballroom and Daryl Parmenter from bcu danced a comical Cuban Salsa with Chrissele George from Kulturithmik. The event raised an amazing $68,500, with Glenda Halliwell from the Travel Centre raising $31,000, making her the state’s highest
fundraiser! I had the pleasure of presenting one of the awards on behalf of major sponsor, FOCUS. I’m certainly glad I was just a presenter and not one of the judges; they certainly had a hard job on their hands. The people’s choice award, as voted by the audience, along with the judges’ choice award were both won by Bec Gaile and Carol Young with their impressive Musical Theatre Tap routine, that had the audience clapping and singing along. What a night! After enjoying a meal with a touch of the hot and spicy at the quirky little restaurant “Lime Mexican”, we all headed across the road to the Sawtell RSL for a second serve of the hot and spicy! The night’s entertainment at the club consisted of a presentation of Hot Havana Nights. Guests got to enjoy and experience the history of Cuba through dance and music from its tribal roots to Salsa. A fabulous night with Afro-Cuban Salsa Dance showcased by local indigenous and Cuban performers, with a live Afro-Cuban Band led by Gustovo Cereijo from Brisbane and Cuban Dj AV EL Cubano from Sydney. The event could be described as a Rhythm Revolution, with the fabulous Christina Monneron from Kulturithmik at her finest! It was definitely a night to remember - a show bursting with colour and vibrant music. Totally exhilarating! Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.
s o c i a l s c e n e
with Carole Beros from Le Dﾄ（n Designs
Galvin Wigg and Amy Knight.
Brenna Smith and Kirsten Howton.
Alison Muggleton, Tanya & Alan Johnson, and Vicky Hunter.
Tanya Johnson, Carole Beros, and Deb Gooley.
Maureen Ewer and John Larkin.
Maureen Donnella, John Dympna, Keough.
Ralph & Olivia from Victoria.
Christina Monneron & Kaaren.
Kim & Ruth.
Gemma Ranger and Rossco Robertson.
Tennille & Jeff Cox.
Sarah & Craig Bailey.
Image Credit Emma Rhoades
Tom Holt, Rod & Deb Johnson.
Anita Shelton, Jackie England, and Pam Reeves.
Image Credit Emma Rhoades
Bec Gaile and Carol Young
Image Credit Emma Rhoades
The Stars.
Corrie Wade and Glenda Halliwell.
coffs coast focus.
77
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
THE HOME OF BEAUTIFUL JEWELLERY ... CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SELLING AND CREATING BEAUTIFUL JEWELLERY FOR THE COFFS COAST.
78 coffs coast focus.
P A R R Y S
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
4 0
focusfeature.
Y E A R S
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
M
LISTENING CRUCIAL TO 40 YEARS’ SUCCESS
ichael Parry’s gentlemanly style is hardly surprising when you consider he first served jewellery customers as a young teenager.
Father Cyril Parry worked as a watchmaker for almost 15 years in the Pacific Highway store owned by Neville Alcock, before buying the Alcock jewellery store in 1975. Parrys Jewellers was established. “Back then there weren’t specialised gift stores, and we sold everything from watches to glassware, crockery and cutlery sets,” Michael said. “I think dealing with the public at such an early age teaches you to appreciate customers, the
need to be friendly and most importantly, to listen,” he said. Growing up in a watchmaker-jewellers household meant Michael learnt all about the different types of gold, diamonds and watches almost as a child learns a second language. However on leaving school, he completed an Honours degree in mechanical engineering and worked as a construction project manager, before deciding he preferred a home life over a nomadic project manager existence. Michael has since completed a Diploma in Gemmology and Diamond grading. Michael opened the Grafton Shoppingworld
Parrys Jewellers in 1990 at the age of 23 and returned to open the stunning Harbour Drive store in 2010 with his partner, Deborah Mauger.
Even the most casual jewellery ys customer of Parr ld ou Jewellers w Parry’s notice Michael ly and charming, friend r.” gentle manne
“
Ruth Varga has been a Parrys customer since arriving in Coffs Harbour 20 years ago and loves classical, stylish jewellery. Over the years, she has remodelled inherited jewellery into pieces more to her taste, as well as designing new items together.
“Michael always knows what suits me and my personality and he’s a perfectionist, same as me,” Ruth said. “I’ve been so happy with the
workmanship and the consultation, plus he’s given me tips on how to wear jewellery to make the most of it. “He is never pushy and has a lovely manner,” she said.
coffs coast focus.
79
focusfeature.
P A R R Y S
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
I
MATCH JEWELS TO YOUR PERSONALITY
love my jewellery to be big, bold and make a statement,” Jenine Glenn said.
“One of Jenine’s favourite colours is pink, and she’s heavily into the running of the Pink Silks Race Day,” Michael Parry said. “On our last trip to Hong Kong, we sourced her a beautiful 13.2ct Pink Topaz,” Michael said. “Jenine likes vibrant coloured statement pieces, so it needs to be solid, well-made and durable to suit her lifestyle,” he said. “From the hand-drawn sketches I drew for Jenine, we then produced CAD designs for approval. CADs are a great way of showing how the finished piece will look.” “It’s huge, it’s half a house, and I love it,” she said.
Michael is not the only member of the Parrys team able to listen to the client and learn their tastes.
Too often jewellery design the is a reflection of hael ic M o. designer ’s eg od go s ve Parry belie ct fle re ld ou sh design e th t and complemen e th of personality wearer.”
“
“Deborah and Toni (manager) know exactly what I like. Toni is a most helpful staff member, absolutely fantastic and an asset to their team.”
Jenine loves more than just pink topaz, and recently received from her late husband, Wayne, a stunning pendant made with a London Blue Topaz surrounded by Pink Sapphires in 18ct white gold that Deborah designed using gemstones selected at the World Jewellery & Gem Fair in Hong Kong.
Proud suppliers to Parrys Jewellers
C A D
D E S I G N
FREE lunch & FREE drink when you sign up as a $10 House Member
Lakes
Osjag · PO Box 4420 · North Rocks, NSW 2151 +61 2 9630 6619 · admin@osjag.com www.osjag.com Breuning Jewellery Australia 80 coffs coast focus.
Present this coupon on arrival
Ex p e ri e
nc
cafebarbistro
Tuesday - Sunday
e
the
dif ference
COFFS HARBOUR GOLF CLUB
02 6652 3244
Congratulates Parrys Jewellers on 40 years of dedication & commitment to offering the finest quality jewellery in your home town of Coffs Harbour.
P A R R Y S
B E F O R E
E
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
4 0
Y E A R S
A F T E R
I LOVE YOU FOREVER
ight years ago, Megan Simpson accepted a lovely diamond engagement ring and marriage proposal from Steve Simpson.
“
combined, decided on some extra diamonds, and Michael Parry came up with the rest.”
“Steve chose a beautiful diamond and setting, but Megan wasn’t involved in the purchase. It was set in 18ct yellow gold, although it wasn’t what she would have chosen,” Michael Parry of Parrys Jewellers said.
“Megan wanted to add more diamonds and the design that I showed Megan was the ‘halo’ look. The centre diamond is claw set and encircled by smaller claw set diamonds,” Michael Parry said.
“I didn’t like wearing two rings,” Megan said. “I also wanted to change from yellow to white gold and a design more modern and more me.”
“It is a bit bling, and it is perfect,” Megan agreed.
“We chose to use the centre diamond and combine the bands into a new one,” she said.
“If you go into a chain store, you are not going to talk to the designer, the jeweller or the owner. At Parrys, you get more personal service.”
“So, I had the wedding and engagement ring
It’s a wonder any man ever age, proposes marri g tin un da e th n give ng si oo prospect of ch e th ll A . ng the right ri esn’ t do ld or w e th love in to an always lead a m .” the perfect ring
“The whole Parrys team are great, easy to deal with, friendly and professional,” she said.
coffs coast focus.
81
focusfeature.
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
RESTORE HEIRLOOMS TO GLORY
F
ew jewellery stores today are able to give on “It’s understandable, really - world gold and diamond site advice, and repairs are often sent rates mean we’re all paying the same prices, so to capital cities or even overseas the only savings can be on labour,” he said. repairers. “Parrys Jewellers has “Because of current gold pricing, a lot Wearing always been really strong on repairs of chain stores and overseas manufacjewellery, y day for the full range of jewellery and er ev ly ar turers mass produce jewellery which ul ic rt pa , can watches,” Michael Parry said. is very light on the gold content; the in the workplace
“
As Coffs Harbour’s oldest jewellery store, they have earned their reputation for quality repairs over four decades. “No-one wants the risk and delay of sending jewellery away for repair, so we have lots of customers leaving items with us to repair,” Michael said.
or ious be hard on prec ellers w Je ys rr Pa . es piec y an m has restored they so s, m ite cherished ” n. can be worn agai
82 coffs coast focus.
*New collection in store soon Georgia May Jagger New collection in store soon
New collection in store soon
Sometimes it’s not the daily grind damaging jewellery, but manufacturing flaws, more common in mass-produced products.
labour component is also cheaper overseas, and therefore this can lead to faults. Claws will snap off, stones will come loose, or there will be faults in the links in chains,” he said.
Everyone has a chain with a broken link, a ring that no longer fits or stones loose in claws they never wear anymore, which can be readily fixed. “Bring us your neglected jewellery, and we’ll give your pieces an expert clean, making it look new.”
P A R R Y S
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
4 0
focusfeature.
Y E A R S
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
ALEX, MICHAEL AND CYRIL PARRY OF PARRYS JEWELLERS
Y
TELLING TIME FOREVER A JOY
ou might expect the son of a watchmaker to have a passion for timekeeping, and Michael Parry arguably has stocked Parrys Jewellers with a wide range of watches. “While you might find other local stockists of brands like Seiko, we are the only stockist of their Premium range,” Michael Parry said. “These premium models are often functionspecific, such as Seiko’s Prospex divers’ watches and Astron GPS, which reset the watch time for your time zone, based on satellite
information simply by pushing a button,” Michael said. “We also sell Casio, the world’s number one selling watch featuring the G Shock and the Baby G ranges,” he said.
You look at your wrist countless ing times a day. Find both in ch at w t the righ can ns look s and functio sk a ta e pl make this sim ” thrill every time.
“
Parrys’ range includes the much-loved Citizen brand and more premium brands such as Skagen,
American fashion marque Michael Kors, Australia’s own Adina and the upmarket Raymond Weil watches. “Skagen watches are created on Danish design principles of less is more and are simplistic, stylish and beautiful slim watches.
“If you look after a Raymond Weil, you can expect it to last a long time and you can hand down to the next generation.
“You have to try it on to understand it, as a Raymond Weil makes you feel special when you have it on. Swiss-made, they have a softness to the metal as it fits on your wrist and is stylish, elegant and a timeless design.”
Home of Premium Quality Solid Sterling Silver and Gold Personalised Jewellery
Congratulates PARRYS Jewellers on
40 Years of Service
to the Coffs Harbour Community
Homage is where the heart is!
See the full range instore @ coffs coast focus.
83
focusfeature.
P A R R Y S
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
4 0
Y E A R S
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
F I N I S H E D
P I E C E
C A D
A
JEWELLERY SHOULD BE PERSONAL
s you get older, you amalgamate your jewellery and get things which suit you,” Rachel Goodwin said. A customer of Parrys Jewellers Grafton Shoppingworld, Rachel followed Parrys to Coffs Harbour when the Grafton store closed. “Parrys have always been able to create something for me that is my style,” Rachel said.
It takes time to develop a personal style, and jewellery is no different .”
“
“Michael understands I like rings to be quite bold, not dainty, and the latest ring they made for me is quite a statement piece - I don’t know what else to say,” she said. A large, natural emerald was placed on her wish list with Parrys Jewellers, in advance of a Hong Kong buying trip last year. “Rachel wanted a specific size and shaped natural emerald, where most are pale green and cloudy,” Michael Parry said. “The best ones are Columbian or Zambian and this one is a beautiful, strong, nice and clean
84 coffs coast focus.
D E S I G N
Zambian green emerald,” Michael said. “Most rings are about 3-4 grams, and Rachel ended up with a 12-13 gram heavy, chunky and solid ring, and she loves it,” he said. Finding or creating a piece in your style is all about two-way communication. “You know when you are talking to people and they understand what you want, and Michael was very responsive to my ideas,” she said. “He guided me and I did have quite a few designs, which I whittled down to one.” A final CAD image enabled Rachel to visualise how the piece would look. “The whole team was excellent and patient with me, as it did take me a while.” “You need to listen to what customers want so they end up with a piece they love, as too often customers end up with what a designer tells them they should have,” Michael said.
P A R R Y S
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
4 0
Y E A R S
focusfeature.
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
VALUE ONCE – VALUED FOR LIFE
W
When a robbery or loss occurs , be many of us will ceipts re r searching fo explain to g lin gg and stru ri ng to nana’s wedding rs .” re police and insu
“
hen a robbery or loss occurs, many of us will be searching for receipts and struggling to explain nana’s wedding ring to police and insurers. A new service is making all the difference to smart jewellery owners.
a customer’s behalf.
“Insurers love customers who list their precious jewellery on an online registry Jewelsure, as it is constantly updated with current gold, diamond prices to give accurate valuations,” said Michael Parry of Parrys Jewellers.
“Customers have the peace of mind of knowing their possessions are accurately valued if they are robbed or lost, as insurers require updated assessments every two years,” Michael Parry said.
Jewelsure is underpinned by qualified gemmologists like Michael Parry, evaluating the weight, size and calibre of each piece they list on
“Insurers love Jewelsure, as they need precise measurements and weights of each item, which is often not included in a traditional valuation
Once each item is listed, the value is calculated based on that day’s gold and gemstone prices, a value updated on demand.
summary,” Michael said.
“Many of our customers have told us the Jewelsure price is about half what they were paying every two years, and Jewelsure’s evaluation now lasts forever.”
A personal password-protected listing can be accessed online on secure servers at any time to check value and whether recent purchases are included. As each listed item is photographed and fully described, this information can be readily
provided to the police and used to ensure the correct level of insurance. You can also contact your approved retailer, Parrys Jewellers, for a jewellery specific insurance policy, Jewelsure Repair and Replacement Insurance, underwritten by QBE.
coffs coast focus.
85
focusfeature. ’ Parrys Jewellers ee nt ra ua G sk No Ri ur yo r de or to u yo allows or d on ideal pearl, diam world’s gemstone at the fair this ry le el largest jew u are not month and if yo ere’s 100% satisfied, th no sale.”
“
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
WHEN A RING IS AN OCCASION
O
ne customer who took the plunge and put a special diamond on Deborah and Michael Parry’s shopping list at last year’s Hong Kong Jewellery Fair is Urunga businessman Steve Allen.
Known for his record-breaking fundraising effort in the Celebrity Dancing on the Coffs Coast, Steve Allen wanted a unique diamond engagement ring for his bride, Wendy. “Our design brief was something unique, something of quality and quite a simple design,” Steve said. “Michael stepped us through the process of putting our ideas into a design,” he said.
MICHAEL PARRY IN HONG KONG 2014
86 coffs coast focus.
“Then he gave us an education session on the differences in diamonds, and from that we gave him an idea of where we were at on that scale.”
Wendy’s ring is a healthy-sized diamond set in platinum which sits in the centre of an 18 carat yellow gold band with princess cut diamonds down each side of the band with a matching wedding band. “It was all about the diamond,” Michael said. “Steve and Wendy wanted a specific size diamond, so we were able to source one of a particular quality and grade during our overseas buying trip.” “Michael just nailed it,” Steve said. “It’s more than just a plain band and designed for Wendy; this made it unique.” “Every time we walked in the door of Parrys, everyone made us feel like it was a special occasion - the whole process was seamless and enjoyable.”
P A R R Y S
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
4 0
Y E A R S
focusfeature.
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
A
DESIGNED WITH LOVE
drian Clark discovered his hoped is absolutely stunning and amazing - I get so bride-to-be, Jacqueline, had many compliments on it,” Jacqueline said. admired a ring when out shopping A large diamond sits in the centre with with her mum. graduating smaller diamonds down each side “I think mum went back in, on the top half of the band, with a took a picture and sent it to matching diamond set wedding Adrian,” the now married band. Jacqueline Clark said. “Michael explained to , ns tio For genera While Adrian now knew me the platinum setting ve men ha what Jacqueline liked, holding the diamond is s, ic ct ta y sp employed eir th he wanted to be sure a tougher, longer-lasting of s nd ie fr g in co-opt er ov he bought quality metal and the quality of sc di to ve lo true t ring which would last a the diamond makes it what engagemen .” ur lifetime. sparkle more,” she said. will win their favo “Adrian showed us a Propose with a ring you rough concept of a setting know she’ll love, by selecting Jacqueline liked, but the a diamond for her to create the important part for him was he perfect setting design with expert wanted a high quality, independently guidance at Parrys Jewellers. certified diamond and the ring designed “We always have loose diamonds and around the stone,” said Michael Parry of gemstones and you can propose with the Parrys Jewellers. stone in a display box, or we can provide a After commissioning the ring, Adrian took sample ring for the proposal,” Michael said. Jacqueline to visit their block of land, got “Designing the ring together in-store with down on one knee and surprised her. us can be a fantastic experience to share as a “I had no idea it was coming, and the ring couple,” he said.
“
HEAD: Designed with love BREAKOUT: For generations, men have employed spy tactics, co-opting friends of their true love to discover what engagement ring will win their favour.
Congratulations on your achievement of 40 years in business, from your friends at SEIKO.
coffs coast focus.
87
focusfeature.
P A R R Y S
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
4 0
Y E A R S
PARRYS CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
LEARN TO TALK DIAMOND
T
If diamonds
“
here are two ways to cut through the back of the diamond. are forever, u a raw diamond,” said yo “People are often more concerned make sure re Michael Parry of Parrys with size, especially when buying a choose one you’ g rin Jewellers. happy to be wea larger diamond, than they are with “You either cut to get the most forever by buying cut, symmetry, clarity and colour.” from an expert.” amount of weight or carats, or to In the long term, a diamond rating get the most sparkle,” Michael said. high on all the criteria will have more “You are always better off with a sparkle and look better on the wearer, slightly smaller stone of better quality and than a ring chosen simply for the diamond you don’t generally have to come down much weight. in carats to get something of better quality,” he “A lot of people spend large sums of money on said. diamonds, without any independent certification of Qualified gemmologists like Michael love to share their the diamond’s grade, so how can you be sure you are passion and knowledge with prospective diamond getting what you have paid for or value for money?” buyers. Stores like Parrys Jewellers have jewellery-trained staff, “A diamond sparkles as a result of light entering at the a qualified gemmologist in Michael and Master Jeweller, top and reflecting back off the facets and coming back enabling them to offer customers a lot of combined out through the top.” “A diamond which is not well cut for sparkle loses light expertise and experience.
88 coffs coast focus.
P A R R Y S
Y
DRESS WATCHES FOR EVERY DAY
ou’ve seen the TV ad where the tractor drives over the watch. Adina Watches are able to survive Australian conditions and look great. Coffs Harbour’s Parry Jewellers has grown alongside Brisbane’s own Adina Watches for several decades. “We’ve stocked Adina for as long as I can remember,” Michael Parry said. “Adina has similar business values to us and stand behind their product range,” Michael said. “Our biggest selling Adina Watches are those waterproof to 100 metres,” he said. “They make
J E W E L L E R S
C E L E B R A T I N G
You’ve seen the TV ad where the er the tractor drives ov ches at W na watch. Adi e iv rv su to le are ab itions Australian cond t.” and look grea
“
a hard-wearing watch encased in a dress setting you can wear every day.” Bob Menzies first set Swiss watch movements whirring in Adina Watches in his suburban Brisbane home in 1971, manufacturing by night and selling by day. His son, Grant Menzies, now heavily involved in the business, is full of praise for the business founder. “Dad is one of those salt-of-the-earth blokes who
4 0
Y E A R S
believes in quality and hard work,” Grant Menzies said. “Back in the ‘70s, he realised the local market needed a waterproof watch, particularly for ladies. Rolex was the only brand making waterproof watches, so he recognised an opportunity,” Grant said. In their Brisbane factory, using the expertise of their 20 employees, they design and hand finish in excess of 40,000 watches a year. “Country Master are the most widely recognised
focusfeature.
work watch in the market, and they cop a pasting from farmers, trades and fishermen. Adina boasts a return rate of less than 2%, but stocks spares and will repair any of their products. The signature Oceaneer collection has developed with the input from retailers like Parrys Jewellers and feature the strength of sapphire crystal and the durability of marine grade stainless steel. Adina is truly Australia watch making at its finest.
Australian Watchmaking at it’s finest since 1971�
Adina ladies 100m Oceaneer WT67 rrp $595�
coffs coast focus.
89
focusfeature
Coffs Mechanical Repairs Coffs Mechanical Repairs is a family owned business where customers are able to speak directly to a mechanic. This has always been an important part of the business, and Mark, Mick, Andrew and Chris are focused on providing excellent service at a reasonable price for all their customers.
Jim’s Add-A-Room
Services provided include log book/new vehicle servicing, general servicing and repairs to all makes and models, including suspension, brakes, tyres and exhausts.
Jim’s Add-A-Room has many years’ building experience and are able to add on a room or rooms, construct granny flats, decks, carports and awnings and undertake all types of commercial and residential building work. In fact, we can take all the worry and work away from you and attend to obtaining the engineering, submitting the Development Application and paperwork to Council. We organise all trades, as well as Council inspections. The only thing you need to do is choose the materials and colours you require. We are more than happy to work with you to achieve what “you want”.
CMR is an RMS authorised e-Safety check station for Pink Slips (annual registration inspections) and Blue Slips (unregistered vehicle inspections) including gas vehicles.
If you are looking to build a granny flat, you can’t go past the InsulLiving® System, which is a fully engineered, BCA-compliant Building System that is lightweight, straightforward and green.
Whether you’re looking for household pressure pumps, drainage, swimming pools, wells, bore pumps or a pump for irrigation from a dam or fire fighting, we have them all ... or maybe it’s irrigation pipes, fittings and sprinklers and filters you require. We can supply this too.
As the home of Fathead Racing, the team combine their extensive mechanical knowledge of everyday cars with the far more technical challenges of working on high performance vehicles from several different aspects of motor sport. This extensive knowledge ensures the team are very skilled in diagnostics and all aspects of maintaining a safe, reliable vehicle for all customers.
InsulWall® by Bondor® is a complete system combining insulation between two steel skins to form a structural and load bearing panel. InsulWall® panels lock easily together and when coupled with Solarspan® roofing, they form a fully insulated, structural shell. InsulWall® is produced using Bluescope steel, which allows direct rendering on the outside, and painting on the inside, without costly and time consuming additional layers.
So when you think about your water needs, Give Luke and Ash a call at The Pump House, Coffs Harbour.
CMR is also a proud member of the Motor Traders Association of NSW.
Why not call Jim’s Add-A-Room today on (02) 6652 7771 to discuss your needs.
The PUMP HOUSE The Pump House Coffs Harbour has recently relocated from cnr. Pacific Hwy and Hurley Drive to unit 5/18 Cook Drive, Coffs Harbour. This family business was established in the mid 1980s by John and Sandy Mackay and has now been taken over by their son, Luke, who has had 15 years’ experience within the business. We still offer the same friendly advice and service, whether in our shop or at your place. We do repairs to most makes and models of pumps, specialising in Davey and DAB, with a huge range of spare parts available.
90 coffs coast focus.
CMR is also a member of Carline Automotive and Exhaust, which allows parts to be sourced at very competitive prices.
focusfeature
HYDRAULICS HOTLINE
PAINTSMART AUTOMOTIVE & SMASH REPAIRS Paintsmart Automotive & Smash Repairs is a family owned business, managed and administered by David and Mandy Brown, currently employing four staff members: Luke, Phil, Nathan and Gemma. David has had over 30 years’ experience in the industry, including many years in Canberra A.C.T. and, after moving to the area has owned Paintsmart since 2006. The business has continued to grow successfully during this period, and this has contributed to Paintsmart having the ability to install modern equipment
to ensure that the finished product is of the highest quality. Painsmart uses Glasurit Two Pak (Baked Enamel) Paint System. Paintsmart’s business imperative is to provide customer satisfaction and high quality work. Paintsmart services include all insurance work, hail damage repairs, resprays, touchups, stone chips etc. Work is carried out on all makes and models of vehicles. Paintsmart endeavours to source all required parts and materials locally, in order to support local business owners.
Since 1992, Hydraulics Hot Line have provided high quality service and repairs to the Coffs Coast. As well as providing maintenance and repairs, the company has grown into a major supplier of hydraulic parts, becoming an authorised distributor for major brands like Bosch Rexroth, Danfoss, Eaton Fluid Power, Stauff, Mega Pacific , Taipan and Hi-Tec Oils. Hydraulics Hot Line is also a supplier of earthmoving attachments and accessories, recently becoming the Northern NSW Dealer for FAE, Augertorque, Doherty Hitches, and ITR. Their range includes forestry mulchers, stone crushers, road profilers, earth augers, trenchers, hedge cutters, rock grabs, tilting and rotating quick hitches, bucket teeth, cutting edges and grader blades. Hydraulics Hot Line really is your one stop shop to keep your equipment running. Some of the services they provide include: • Hydraulic hose making, either in their workshop while you wait, or with two fully equipped break-
down support vehicles, they can come to you. • Trouble shooting, fault diagnosis, testing and condition/ efficiency reporting. • Hydraulic component repairs or replacement, including all pumps, motors, valves and everything in between. • Large hydraulic cylinder repairs (and small ones too) - complete overhaul including barrel honing and chrome rod repairs. Don’t let others only half do the job by just replacing the seals. • System design and new installations • Annual inspection and certification of Truck Mounted Cranes (required by law). • New crane sales and installation, including subframe design and certification. • Undercarriage repairs/replacement with a mobile 100 Ton pin press. • Machining. • Fabrication and weld repairs. For more information on any of our products or services, call or drop in, and one of the team will be happy to help.
coffs coast focus.
91
focusfeature
complete PEST CONTROL What is a pest and termite specialist? It takes knowledge, experience and the latest equipment to successfully protect a home from pests - and especially termite attack. The annual damage bill to homes in Australia from termites is estimated at more than $100 million, so it’s essential to have someone that will take the time to understand your house and the issues you have. Who uses your services? We have a large number of domestic clients, as well as a host of local restaurants, clubs, businesses, builders and senior villages. We still provide our customers with individual personalised service. No person is ever the same, so no property is ever the same. What makes you different to other pest control services? Besides our dedication to quality of work and value for money, seeing that we are one of the largest pest companies on the Mid North Coast, one thing I’m so proud of is Complete Pest Control is 100% local. I went to school at Toormina, my kids will go to school here, my partner is a nurse at the hospital, and all jobs stay local. We sponsor two rugby league teams, as well as a local Motocross rider and other events in our community, and there are plans for further sponsorships into 2015 and beyond.
$110
From
Areas treated include Interior, Exterior, Roof-Voids, Sub-Floors and Garden Areas etc. Treatment covers Large Cockroaches, Silverfish and Spiders. Based on an average 3-4 bedroom home.
12 month written warranty Excludes German Cockroaches - Site visit needed for quote.
other services german cockroaches, bees, wasps, ants, rodents, bed bugs, borers, possum control, mosquito control, fleas, lice and more.
From Pre Purchase Pest & Building Inspections
$395
6652 9391 92 coffs coast focus.
OUR PHONES ARE ALWAYS ANSWERED
BISCO BOAMBEE INDUSTRiaL SUPPLY Established in 1980, Darrin and Julia Mintern purchased the business in March 2000 after moving up from Wagga Wagga. Darrin has worked in the trade industry for over 20 years and Julia has worked in administration. They understand industries and serious tradies need a “one stop shop” where they can get expert sales advice, reliable quality products and if needed, after sales service. Darrin and Julia pride themselves on how they built this business on these three important things that are often overlooked. In the beginning, their business operated out of a small 16 sq. metre shed with no computers or staff. How things have changed! Fifteen years later, they now occupy a 1,000 square metre industrial building with the latest computer system and a spacious modern showroom supported by seven friendly staff with over 60 years’ combined industry experience. They stock a vast and extensive range of products, from fasteners, quality power tools to large industrial equipment. They cater for everyone: from the home handy man who wants to purchase single rivets, bolts and nuts (not just in packets) to large companies who need to buy in bulk. We stock for engineers, sawmillers, builders, right through to the transport industry.
k-SIGNS K-Signs is a family business specialising in the design and production of quality signage. Whether you want to apply promotional signage to your commercial vehicle, your sports team needs a banner or a A-Frame to advertise your cafés specials, at K-Signs we can manufacture what you need. We also manufacture illuminated light boxes in house with power saving LEDs or traditional fluorescent tubing. Here at K-signs we can offer traditional brush, computer cut vinyl graphics, as well as Large Format Digital Printing. If you have a specific design in mind, we can produce it or if not, we can design your logo for you. If you require custom graphics, decals or magnetic signs, these too can be produced. Because eye appeal is buy appeal, K-Signs provides a complete shop front signage service. We have the best equipment and know-how to produce stunning fonts, images and backdrops tailored to your specifications. With 35 years in the signage industry, we have the expertise to design, manufacture and install your signage. So call David or Margaret at K-Signs for an obligation free quote today.
focusfeature
MARCH 2015
with Terri
EMERALD BEACH PLUMBING Peter Coulson is the Director of Emerald Beach Plumbing and has been in business for 35 years. His wife, Pandora, is also a Director, and together they combine plumbing and her property management experience of 20 years to create an outstanding business that understands the needs of all their customers requiring plumbing maintenance and all aspects of the plumbing trade. Plumbing is a licensed industry, and it is important to have a licensed plumber attend your plumbing works to avoid unnecessary accidents, mistakes and damage to property. As a licensed plumber, all our works are covered under insurance and regulated by the governing body. We take pride in our WH&S and make sure we are always up to date with the latest plumbing techniques, regulations and requirements in our industry. The team at Emerald Beach Plumbing is extraordinary, and together they combine a plethora of expertise, training and knowledge. There are 6 plumbers on the road at all times to service all needs at very short notice. We are available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Most important is our service with a smile and a laugh to make your day. We are a very happy team that are passionate about what we do and how we do it and take pride in our workmanship to deliver an exceptional service.
AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19
You may be feeling a little uprooted or unsettled lately. A new move or the discussion of moving is likely to be on the agenda. Avoid rash decisions; wait for what feels right and you will have no regret. New friends are coming into the picture, so relax and enjoy the social interactions. Herderite helps us to see our evolution, thus making it less of a challenge.
PISCES.
February 20 - March 20
An ending of a situation is bringing an exciting new influence into the picture. Your task at the moment is to understand your place in the bigger scheme of things. Don’t compromise your standards to soothe your fears. Rose Quartz attracts us towards loving experiences.
ARIES.
March 21 - April 20
Your leadership skills will be sought after in the work environment over the next few weeks. Allow your strengths to shine and don’t be afraid to put your hand up for a promotion. Connect with your laughter a little more, as you are currently taking life too seriously. Turquoise is great for communication.
TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21
You so desperately want a change in direction, but this is challenging your rules and boundaries in life. At present, your personal strength is being tested, which also may make it harder to pursue your desires. Ask yourself how badly do you want change? Let this motivate you. Set your sights and then give yourself permission to receive. Phenacite helps us to release other people’s worries from our energies.
GEMINI. May 22 - June 22
Focus on your most important challenge at this time in order to achieve your hard earned success. You are too easily distracted at present, which is causing frustration. Be a little more aware of your thoughts, and eliminate negativity, self doubt and fear. Turquoise and rose quartz will enhance your self approval.
CANCER. June 23 - July 23
Be patient just a little longer. You are likely to be very busy over the next few weeks, offering you some distraction from your thoughts. Relax and let go of the need to know what will be and enjoy just being in the now. Set some fresh goals and wait for their arrival. Rose Quartz is a very powerful calming crystal.
LEO.
July 24 - August 23
Your self-opinion is at present under attack. Be kinder to your sensitivity and stop believing negative things about you. Instead, wake up tomorrow with a brand new beginning attitude and watch your determination return. Citrine connects us to our happier energy.
VIRGO.
August 24 - September 23
Your focus will be clearer after you have set some new goals or direction. Get that clever Virgo mind active and satisfy your intellect. An exciting new opportunity is out there through learning something different, so look for that perfect course or read a good book. Azeztulite allows us to explore alternate realities comfortably.
LIBRA.
September 24 - October 23 Connect with a passion you have. Your love of life needs satisfying. Change is coming forward, and this is a natural challenge for the Libran. Start a project or play with your creative energies. You will soon offer your family members some profound healing advice, so don’t be afraid to speak. Topaz strengthens our self-esteem and brings personal - power to situations surrounding us.
SCORPIO.
October 24 - November 22
Remove all self-doubt. You already know what your challenges’ outcome will be. You even have your answers for getting there quicker. Find out what it is that renders you powerless, so that you cannot be played with. You are gifted at thinking outside the square, so allow yourself this enlightenment and treat you as you would another. Snowflake obsidian is wonderful for shattering negative thoughts.
S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21
Bring out your happy self, as you are taking life far too seriously. This has left you drained lately and feeling unenthused. You just do things, you don’t need to talk about it or plan it, so remember this when you are next tempted to procrastinate. Sugilite would be of great
benefit at this time as it helps us face our challenges with a joyful outlook.
CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20
Begin something new. Soon work opportunities will keep you busy, fill your being with satisfaction and complete you. However, your enthusiasm needs to be strong when the project begins, so now is the time to feed it. Help your mind to get ready for this opportunity by writing lists, and setting goals. Rhodonite helps us to discover new talents through our creative energy.
S
e
n
i
o
r
s
W
e
e
k
RFBI: 135 Years in the Provision of Aged Care
SENIORS WEEK
S
ince the first Royal Freemason’s Benevolent Institution (RFBI) Aged Care Facility was established in 1972, RFBI has responded to the needs of Australia’s ageing population and has diversified their caring and benevolent role through the establishment of aged care facilities throughout regional NSW. This includes the Village at Mackays Road in Coffs Harbour, which was founded in 1990 and currently comprises 78 residential care facility together with 50 Self Care units. RFBI is now a leading Aged Care provider, owning and operating Nursing Homes, Hostels and Retirement Villages and caring for over 2,600 elderly residents, including 78 at RFBI Coffs RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village. HISTORY OF RFBI IN COFFS HARBOUR
was officially opened by the RT. WOR. BRO Frank M Jeffree OAM. P.D.G &M. in 1991. The Hostel was extended by a further nine beds, four years later. In 2001, a further 20 Independent Living units were added, and the Village Hall On Thursday 19th ill was extended to cater for w e w March at 10am the increase in residents. ng ni or m l ia be having a spec e Th Late 2002 saw the l. al H ge lla tea in the Vi spect in to completion of a new d te vi in e ar public and bus, bo 60 bed residential care ze ga w ne r ou ning tea with facility. This facility was followed by mor ts. The Coffs offi cially opened in our village residen Drums will In 1988, Harbour Pipes & 2003 by the Honorable rtainment.” te en g local Coffs be providin Julie Bishop, then r. ge na Ma General Martin Bunyan Harbour Masons Minister for Ageing. approached FACILITIES the RFBI with the Coffs Harbour Masonic view of establishing Village offers a 78-bed accredited a local Masonic Village. Residential Care Facility, which includes Following this, in 1989 a local a separate 15-bed dementia specific wing, and committee was formed and along with the RFBI 50 Independent Living Units. planning, commenced immediately with on Within the Residential Care, accommodation site preparations, plans, and eventual building incorporates ensuite bathrooms, ceiling fans and activities. ducted air conditioning. All common areas within In 1990, the first 30 Independent Living Units, both hostels are air-conditioned. There are lounge together with a Village Hall, were completed and rooms in each wing of both facilities. Catering is officially opened by Mr. Matt. Singleton, Member on site, with main meals served in the large dining for Coffs Harbour. room. The menu changes seasonally, and the staff The original nine bed Residential Care Hostel welcome resident input. Visitors are also able to
“
enjoy a meal with residents should they wish, at a minimal charge. The dining area for dementia residents has recently been refurbished and extended to better cater to residents’ needs. RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village’s 50 Independent Living Units each have two double bedrooms with built in wardrobes. There are both upstairs and downstairs units, across twelve blocks, with secure entry to each block. There are also two single storey villas. All the Independent Living Units have lock-up single garages, an attached laundry and a vital call system. The quiet and peaceful surrounds offer maintained gardens and spacious grounds, incorporating a Village Hall and BBQ area. ACTIVITIES & LIFESTYLE Prospective residents looking to continue leading an active and social lifestyle can do so at RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village. The Independent Living Units have an active residents committee, and various functions are held throughout the year in the Village Hall. The residential care facilities have spacious activity areas, providing a relaxed atmosphere for residents, with the option of participating in a wide range of activities such as concerts, fashion parades, parties, shuffleboard and carpet bowls competitions. RFBI also offer hairdressing services, podiatry and physiotherapy on site. The 11 seater bus is available to all residents for outings and shopping trips.
RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution
Everyone has the right to quality retirement and support services. That’s why we have flexible options to care for and support you. Call our team to begin discussing your options.
RFBI Management Congratulating two Masonic Cert III in Aged Care Graduates
33 Mackays Road, Coffs Harbour 2450 - ph 6650 2200 - coffsharbour@rfbi.com.au - www.rfbi.com.au 94 coffs coast focus.
Masonic Villages: It’s how to live...
S
e
n
i
o
r
s
W
e
e
k
Life has never sounded better together Woolgoolga couple shares their emotional story of rediscovering their relationship with each other and the outside world due to new technology.
SENIORS WEEK
W
hen Patrick Hodges received new hearing aids, it wasn’t just his life that changed for the better. His wife Margaret and his adult children also found their relationship with each other transform. “My husband’s new hearing aids have changed both our lives,” says Margaret. “People don’t realise what it’s like to live with a person with a hearing difficulty.” “To see Patrick’s face light up when he could hear sounds he hadn’t heard clearly in years … it’s very emotional …,” Margaret continues with tears in her eyes (and ours, of course!) “We now have quality of life when we didn’t
group of people at dinner and join in on the conversations this time - we enjoyed ourselves much more than in the past.” After struggling for years with outdated and ineffective hearing aids from an industrial workcover claim, Patrick took up Australian Hearing’s offer to clean his old hearing aids have that quality of life booked We had a cruise and discuss his before. ed ng recently and arra ds ai concerns. g “Both our children in hear to have the new as w ch hi w , This revealed the live away from home, ready beforehand d mix with ul co k ic need for a new and Patrick couldn’t great, as Patr nner and di at le op pe of hearing assessment talk to them, as he a group nversations join in on the co and subsequently, a couldn’t hear them on joyed this time - we en more up-to-date set in the phone. Patrick was an th e mor ourselves much of hearing aids was missing out on so much. the past .” arranged. Now he can speak with As a pensioner, Patrick the children regularly. was eligible to receive “We had a cruise booked government-funded hearing recently and arranged to have services and subsidised hearing aids from the new hearing aids ready beforehand, Australian Hearing in Coffs Harbour. which was great, as Patrick could mix with a
“
“I’m very impressed with my new hearing aids. It’s the clearest I’ve heard in years,” explains Patrick. “I didn’t realise how out of date my previous hearing aids were until I had these new ones fitted - they’re A1. “It has made a big difference when talking with my kids, especially on the phone. With the older hearing aids I couldn’t hear correctly, so I just wouldn’t bother answering the phone. “I am busier now that I’m retired than when I was working full-time, and hearing aids have certainly helped with my current activities. “I am part of the Men’s Shed, volunteer at the Transfer Station once a month and also do voluntary work at an aged care unit. “When I’m playing bowls on the green, I can now hear the calls at the other end, whereas I had Buckley’s with my old aids. “If I was sitting in a group at a function, I would have problems hearing the people speaking and trying to follow the conversation. The new aids have made such a big difference.”
coffs coast focus.
95
focusinterview.
AGED CARE F R E E D O M • L I F E S T Y L E • C A R E
FREEDOM AGED CARE ARE NOT TRADITIONAL NURSING HOMES, NOR CAN WE BE COMPARED WITH ANY OTHER AGED CARE COMMUNITY, BUT, AS OUR NAME IMPLIES, UNIQUE AGED CARE COMMUNITIES DEDICATED TO DELIVERING UNMATCHED LEVELS OF FREEDOM, LIFESTYLE AND CARE.
E
very aspect of life in a Freedom Aged Freedom also has its own team of Diversional Care community is based around Therapists who are onsite seven days a week to access to 24 hours a day nursing care, coordinate and implement activities to contribute to throughout the day and night. your wellbeing. The truly unique and Each community is a vibrant social special thing about centre built on passionate pillars of Freedom is that you never have personal freedom, friendship and to worry about the changing fun. At Freedom couples can live Every Freedom levels of care you may need. together, even if one partner’s community has Caring for you through health deteriorates, we simply ed its own Register of every stage of the ageing increase the level of nursing Nurse with a team journey is our passion and care to the partner requiring at Personal Carers ut our promise. If and when more care. And at Freedom ho your call throug your health needs change, you can also continue to live t.” the day and nigh we will simply increase the with your pets in your own level of nursing care you Freedom home. Every Freedom require in the privacy of your resident is recognised and respected own Freedom home. You should as part of the Freedom Family. never have to leave. For family, it means peace of mind Every Freedom community has its own knowing you are with the best aged care Registered Nurse with a team of Personal service, enjoying all the freedom, fun, friendship Carers at your call throughout the day and and personal care you could ever want. night. On a day-to-day basis, every Freedom Freedom Aged Care has a new community resident has their own Personal Case Manager opened in Coffs Harbour; call us today on 1800 and a care plan specific to their individual needs. 357 681. We are here to help.
“
96 coffs coast focus.
Check out our award Real life winning designs. residents who call Freedom home
The vision and purpose of Freedom Aged Care is simple - to create a caring, safe and inspiring environment that supports our residents in living their lives to the fullest through every stage of the ageing journey.
Freedom Care & Support ü ü ü ü ü ü
Care onsite throughout the day and night Registered Nurse onsite Personal Carers onsite Clinical Case Manager and care plan specific to your needs and ageing journey 24 hour nurse call system and assistive technology to help with memory loss and dementia Access to DVA and Community Care packages coordinated by the Clinical Case Manager
Care that changes and evolves with you through every stage of the ageing journey. We adjust the care you need, as it changes, in the privacy of your own Freedom home, you should never have to leave.
Freedom Lifestyle & Wellbeing ü Scheduled activities, entertainment and outings ü Diversional Therapist onsite to coordinate activities Need some inspirationüfor yourcafé new home? Wrinkles & bar, with happy hour every afternoon ü Couples stay together, Check out the 2015 design range from G.J. Gardner Homes. regardless of their different health needs ü Pets are welcome to live with you Expertly designed, we have added further modern and spacious plans to choose from. ü Onsite hair and beauty salon ü Watch a movie at our onsite movie theatre Regatta 264 - Resort Facade ü Potter about in the Freedom vegie garden and chook house ü Flag down the Freedom bus for a trip to town BED 5
Drop in for a chat today. Office 171 Orlando Street Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Opening Hours
BED 4
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Every Freedom community is a vibrant social centre focused on freedom, friendship and fun.
ALFRESCO
ROBE
STUDY FAMILY
ROBE
WC BED 5
BED 1
BED 4 BATH
DN
Display home
Freedom Safe & Secure Communities 3 Green Bluff Road ROBE
ENS.
DN
ROBE
WC
13 160
WIR
ACTIVITY BATH
18 050
UP
ü ü ü ü ü ü
MW
FR
PWDR.
FOYER MEDIA
PORCH
up.
LINEN
LDRY.
Private, self-contained Freedom home North Sapphire Beach NSW 2450 Modern communal areas Opening Hours Maintenance and gardening throughout the community and to your home days 10am to 4pm Fresh and nutritious meals, prepared every day in the Freedom kitchen by our7 cooks Friendly reception at entry of community Safe and secure communities
DOUBLE GARAGE
KITCHEN
BUTLERS PANTRY
DN
UP
13 160
DINE
ROBE
DN
ROBE
ACTIVITY
LINEN BED 2
BED 3
ROBE
ROBE
BED 2
BED 3
6 180
We are genuinely here for you, for your everyday living, everything you need today, tomorrow and in the future. 12 000
6 180
Photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. These items include landscaping – including planter
boxes, retaining features, pergolas, screens andchose decorative landscaping items such as fencing andCare outdoor kitchens and barbecues. Discover whywalls, sowater many families Freedom Aged Fischer Built Pty Ltd. BL: 191313C. for their loved ones in Coffs Harbour and across Australia.
Call us on (02) 6691 3509 or visit online at gjgardner.com.au
Call 1800 357 681 Meet some of the Freedom family vimeo.com/facfamily
Connect with us: /FTLCfamily
AGED CARE
S
e
n
i
o
r
s
W
e
e
k
Feros Care Feros Care’s health and wellness team keep seniors active, fit and healthy. Feros Care is pleased to introduce its Coffs Harbour Health and Wellness team, who provide a range of programmes and services designed to keep seniors healthy, fit and fabulous. Your local team is Ben Happ, Luisa Eckhardt and Brigid Flannery. This highly qualified wellness team has a passion for working with their clients to help them get the most out of life. Services available include: • physiotherapy • podiatry • exercise physiology • occupational therapy • Forever Young group exercise programs • Strong Foundations falls prevention program The wellness team believes that when it comes to individual health and fitness, “one-sizedoes-not fit-all”. The team do a comprehensive assessment with each client to help determine each person’s goals and how to achieve a healthier and more active lifestyle. Ben, Luisa and Brigid understand that everyone has different strengths and capabilities, and they develop a personalised reablement programme to suit each client.
98 coffs coast focus.
SENIORS WEEK
Ben Happ and Luisa Eckhardt
The wellness team also provides a unique mobile service. This enables Ben, Luisa and Brigid to visit clients in their own homes and in residential and retirement villages, making it even more convenient for people to meet their health goals. Feros Care’s wide range of health and wellness programs and services are affordable and include one-on-one physiotherapy, rehabilitation for people who are recovering from an injury or a fall, home modifications advice, podiatry services, and Forever Young group fitness classes. Rebates are available, depending on each client’s individual circumstances. For more information or to book services, phone: 1300 085 181.
Friendly Professional Service Des Kingdom has been in the dental Des is also qualified in ‘implant retained profession for more than 50 years and over denture technology’. Simply working as a Dental Prosthetist call on 6652 2403 and book in Coffs Harbour for 36 a free consultation with years. Des’s daughter, Des or Elizabeth. Des We offer a Elizabeth, is also a Dental Kingdom’s Denture Clinic complete Prosthetist and has at 55 Long Street, Coffs denture service, ll been working in Des’s Harbour, open Monday including fu practice since 2006. to Friday, 8:30am to and partial , dentures, relines We offer a complete 5:30pm. Concessions for d mouthguards an denture service, including Pensioners and recipients denture repairs.” full and partial dentures, of Department of Veteran relines, mouthguards and Affairs benefits. denture repairs.
“
S
e
n
i
o
r
s
W
e
e
k
SENIORS WEEK
Community Care Options Caring for our community Community Care Options is a progressive community organisation that provides professional assessment, planning, information, advocacy and tailored quality services to people requiring support to stay in their own homes. For over 20 years we have enabled people to achieve goals such as independent living, broadening social networks and remaining connected to the community. Servicing the Nambucca, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour local government areas, Community Care Options provides the highest quality care and support options for you or your loved one. It may be that you or a family member requires help for a period of time after a hospital stay, or that you need assistance in your home for domestic tasks, shopping or errands. In some cases, more complex care is required. Our team of Support Planners work directly with clients and their families to develop an individual care plan, which is reviewed as often as you require. Community Care Options’ vision is to create a better future for the communities where we operate through leadership and service innovation. To discuss your eligibility to receive services or to arrange for a support assessment please contact one of our intake officers on 6650 2000. For more information on how Community Care Options assists our community, visit www.cco.net.au.
Celebrating Seniors Week 2015
Ph: 6650 2000 www.cco.net.au admin@cco.net.au 100 coffs coast focus.
Park Beach Dental
SENIORS WEEK
Park Beach Dental Surgery understands the struggles of day to day life, dental visits tend to be relegated to the bottom of the “to do list”, whether it be for financial reasons, anxiety issues and/or time restraints. A great smile is not only imperative for confidence but is also critical for your general health. After an initial consultation, a treatment plan is drawn up and followed so that there are no financial surprises. Another initiative that we have undertaken to help alleviate some of the financial burden, particularly for senior citizen patients, is that we now accept seniors card and offer 10% discount to cardholders for treatment. Anxiety issues plays a large role in patients not making dental appointments, we understand this, and encourage patients to pick up the phone and make the initial appointment which is often the hardest step and we will help them with the rest. We offer a range of services including dentures, preventive and cosmetic dentistry. We are preferred provider for most health funds including Bupa and HCF. We also accept DVA patients. If you’re having any issues or worries about your teeth feel free to give us a call and make an appointment with Dr Tommie Strydom or Dr KenOn Chan.
Right at Home Right at Home, funded under the Home & Community Care programme, commenced operation in 1996 and has been providing quality support services to frail older people and younger people with disabilities and their carers on the Coffs Coast for the past 18 years, with the aim of promoting independence and enhancing quality of life. A highly motivated and dedicated team strive towards empowering all individuals to achieve their full potential through connections with others, fostering true community spirit. We are proud of our strong commitment to personalised services and maintain regular, ongoing contact with our service users. Right at Home has a dynamic team of volunteers who willingly give their time to assist those in need. The wealth of skills and life experience they bring to their work, and their passion for giving, forms the basis for our unique ability to really connect with service users. We can offer new volunteers choice and flexibility, the opportunity to learn new skills through regular training and support, meet new people and remain active in the community. Volunteers are reimbursed for travel and out of pocket expenses. For further information about volunteering with Right at Home, contact Coffs Harbour on 6648 3650 or Woolgoolga on 6654 7221.
AUSTRALIAN OWNED
S
e
n
i
o
r
s
W
e
e
k
SENIORS WEEK
Gold Award winner
Spitfire Ex 1420 In the mobility scooter industry, it’s hard to find a device that offers a wide range of features for the diverse needs of its users. The Spitfire EX 1420 delivers on many of those needs with the revamped model, designed to give the rider the greatest value in terms of safety and convenience, making life easier for people with little mobility. It comes equipped with a diverse range of features, such as two battery options, interchangeable color panels and multiple warranties. The Spitfire EX 1420 is considered one of the least expensive mobility scooters on the market, but you won’t sacrifice any amount of comfort or features for the difference in price. This scooter offers a unique option of two different battery choices, giving you the ability
to increase daily mileage. The 12AH battery gives a maximum distance of 9 miles, and the 21AH battery gives a distance of 15 miles. If you plan to do little travel or need additional range, you have the options available. According to 10 Top Ten Reviews website www.toptenreview.com the Spitfire EX wins the 2015 Top Ten Reviews Excellence Award for best power scooter category. Carrying a load of 150 kg, travelling up to speeds of 8 km/h for up to 30 km on full battery charge, this scooter is lightweight, durable, manoeuvrable, comes with a nifty basket and is easy to assemble. Final verdict: 9.5/10
LONGEVITY SMOOTHIE. Smoothies are an excellent way to eat nutritiously. They're easy to make, take a couple of minutes to prepare, utilise raw fruits and vegetables containing fibre and vitamins and are simply delicious.
T
hey're also excellent for people who want to lose weight, have small appetites or find it hard to consume solid food. For those on liquid diets, these drinks can be a fabulous break from pureed whole foods - just strain out any fruit seeds or solid fruit parts before serving the drinks. This smoothie recipe is aimed at boosting longevity and energy levels, with added ancient ingredient maca powder which has proven Bone Strengthening Properties; this is an all round super health drink. 102 coffs coast focus.
Ingredients & METHOD 1 cup of almond milk 1 cup of blueberries, fresh or frozen 1 handful of goji berries, Tablespoon maca powder Half a banana Tablespoon raw honey. Combine all ingredients in blender or smoothie bullet and serve!
Banana Coast Home Nursing Subee PL (Bananacoast Home Nursing) is a locally owned community care service for the elderly and disabled that has been operating on the Coffs Coast since 1992.
W
e have a long standing (and well earned!) reputation for quality, reliability, flexibility and individual care. In an industry that changes fast, we are an industry leader. We can provide staff 24 hours a day from Nambucca Heads to Grafton, and up to Dorrigo. Services can be long-term, short-term or one offs, depending on your needs. As a local family run business, we know how important it is for people to stay living and active in their own communities. We love being in Coffs, and we know you do too. Subee provides care that is delivered within a person centred framework and underpinned by a continuous quality improvement business model which ensures continuity of care, ongoing feedback and review, up to date clinical training and full transparency. What does this actually mean? It means that our number one priority is you. Always. Our staff work closely with clients, carers and families to ensure that what you need is what you get! We have recently passed audit for our management system as well as services offered under the Disability Service Standards and the Attendant Care Industry Association. Subee is currently investigating being accredited to the standards of the Rainbow Tick. As part of our strategy to never rest on our
laurels, Subee has recently gained approved provider status for the Community Support Programme and is currently delivering services through Disability Care Australia (previously known as NDIS) in our Newcastle office. We work with you, not just for you. For direct referrals, new clients and/or their legal nominee work closely with an RN to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan which encompasses all care needs, including low and high level clinical care, personal care, respite care, domestic assistance, meal prep, transportation to appointments or just out for a cup of coffee. We do other things too. Subee PL is an agent for Air Liquide Healthcare, providing oxygen, CPAP and ventilator equipment to clients in the community from Coffs to Yamba, including deliveries to your front door and an after hours emergency service. We provide nursing staff to local nursing facilities and coordinate community access for families. We are proud to say that we recently took out the NSW Business Chamber Employer of Choice and Business Excellence Awards in Port Macquarie, as well as being a State Finalist for both categories in Sydney in November 2014. Call us on 6651 3153 to have a chat about what you need and how we can help you to get it.
S
e
n
i
o
r
s
W
e
e
k
with Glenda Halliwell from TheTravel Centre Coffs Harbour
Music Cruises 2015 A Ship Load of Fun!
T
This year will provide another sensational opportunity to enjoy music at sea on board Royal Caribbean’s superliner, Radiance of the Seas.
here is now a cruise to suit almost all music lovers’ tastes: country and western’s Crusin’ Country 5, rock and roll’s Rock the Boat 5 and Bravo, a cruise of the performing arts. Guests will experience the best of the Pacific Islands whilst enjoying their favourite musical artists at sea aboard the luxurious Radiance of the Seas in October this year. After overwhelming popularity since its inaugural cruise in 2011, Cruisin’ Country returns in 2015 for its unprecedented fifth year. Join your favourite Australian and international country superstars for the holiday of a lifetime. For eight nights the likes of Troy Cassar-Daley, Adam Brand, Sara Storer, Adam Harvey, The McClymonts, McAlister Kemp, O'Shea, Amber Lawrence, Catherine Britt plus many more will keep you entertained to the max. Music will play from morning until late into the night, and there will be plenty of opportunities for country fans to participate in exclusive vocalist, song writing and guitar workshops, dancing events and lessons from beginner to advanced level, plus open mic
sessions, where they can demonstrate their own musical talents in front of special guest judges. This year, Rock the Boat also returns for its fifth consecutive year, and the very best Australian Legends of Rock are coming together for seven glorious nights of pure Rock and Roll. Relive the sights and sounds of the best in music between the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s right through to the ‘80s and ‘90s. Legendary artists such as Jimmy Barnes, Ross Wilson, Glen Shorrock, Brian Cadd, Frankie J Holden, Wilbur Wilde plus many more will perform for you day and night throughout the cruise in the majestic Aurora Theatre, Colony Club, Starquest Lounge, Schooner Bar, Quill and Compass, Centrum and Poolside. Cruisin’ Country voyages are a magnet for cowboy boots, belts and hats; Rock the Boat cruises attracts rockers young and old. All you dancing kings and queens get your YMCA moves happening. Back by popular demand, “Bravo - A Cruise of the Performing Arts 2015”, features a brand new lineup of Australian and international artists for an all-consuming musical experience. The eight night voyage
will cruise from Sydney roundtrip, and guests will be entertained by a wide range of international performers from world renowned opera sensations, theatrical favourites to acclaimed classical performers, including headline act Katherine Jenkins plus Liz Callaway, David Shannon, James Morrison, David Hobson, Mark Vincent, Emma Pask and many more. Bravo is the only performing arts charter of its kind. It offers guests a rare opportunity to see some of the world’s most iconic performers, while travelling to the exotic reaches of the South Pacific, including full day visits to Mare, Mystery Island and Noumea. We receive rave reviews from our clients who have experienced these cruises. Most rebook for the following year as soon as they get home. These cruises are great value, with all meals and entertainment included in the cost. For us country folk, it is a fabulous opportunity to get your yearly dose of entertainment in one hit! With plenty of like-minded people on board, you are sure to make many new friends and catch up with old ones. Now, that’s entertainment!
SENIORS WEEK
MUSIC CRUISES Cruise from Sydney to the South Pacific aboard Radiance of the Seas, soaking up the sounds of your all-time favourite musicians. Each cruise features a star studded line up with the very best of International and Australian artists, main meals (excludes speciality dining), entertainment and gratuities (excluding onboard purchases).
Troy Cassar-Daley Adam Harvey
BRAVO! A CRUISE OF THE PERFORMING ARTS 2015
Featuring
Featuring
Jimmy Barnes
Featuring
Katherine Jenkins OBE
Sara Storer • The McClymonts McAlister Kemp plus many more!
Ross Wilson • Glenn Shorrock • Brian Cadd • Frankie J Holden plus many more!
James Morrison • Liz Calla way (USA) • David Hobson • Suzanne Johnston plus many more!
9 Oct 2015 | 8 night cruise
17 Oct 2015 | 7 night cruise
24 Oct 2015 | 8 night cruise
Interior from $2,556pp*
Oceanview from Balcony from $3,256pp* $3,995pp*
Interior from $2,356pp*
Oceanview from $3,056pp*
Balcony from $3,795pp*
Interior from $2,636pp*
Oceanview from Balcony from $3,398pp* $4,043pp*
15 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour P: 02 6652 1833 E: glenda@travelcentrecoffs.com.au *Prices are in AUD per person, twin share. Interior and Oceanview cabin prices for Cruisin’ Country 5 and Rock the Boat 5 are on a guarantee basis and all other pricing is based on the lowest available category, correct as at 11 February 2015. Single travellers must pay a single supplement. Costs are subject to change with or without notice and are subject to availability. Prices include main meals (excluding speciality restaurants), entertainment and gratuities (excluding onboard purchases), port charges and government taxes. To be read in conjunction with full terms and conditions which can be found in the Cruisin’ Country 2015, Rock the Boat 2015 and Bravo A Cruise Of The Performing Arts 2015 brochures. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply.
coffs coast focus.
103
NEW split-level designs.
Resort Facade
Introducing G.J’s new Split-Level Design series. G.J. Gardner Homes offers a range of home
With a choice of three facades for each design,
designs specifically tailored to suit steep or
you are guaranteed to find a home that suits
sloping blocks. Whether your block slopes
both your site and your tastes.
sideways, towards the front or away from the road, the Element Series of split-level homes can
Contact us today to view the complete series.
ROBE
accommodate your unique site requirements.
ALFRESCO DINE
GUEST BED 4
BATH
Laguna 278.
4
3
FLOOR AREAS: Ground Living: Garage: Alfresco: Porch: Ground Total: Upper Living: Deck: Upper Total: TOTAL:
2
120.2 m2 38.9 m2 13.7 m2 3.1 m2 175.9 m2 91.4 m2 10.9 m2 102.5 m2 278.4 m2
w al l
FAMILY
w al l
14 910
KITCHEN
BUTLERS PANTRY
LAUNDRY
FR
Drop in for a chat today.
UP
DOUBLE GARAGE
MEDIA
UP
DISPLAY HOME:
Open Daily: 10am - 4pm
FOYER
OFFICE
3 Green Bluff Road, North Sapphire Beach
DESIGN CENTRE: 171 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour
PORCH
12 390
DISCLAIMER: Images and photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features either not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes or not included in any price stated. For detailed home pricing or to discuss our building time program please talk to a New Homes Consultant. Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour. BL# 191313C.
Call us on 6691 3509 or visit us online at gjgardner.com.au
Review us!
Follow us!