Coffs Coast Issue 55 by Focus

COFFS COAST

Feature Story Hilton Mitchell

April 2015//issue 55

John coffs coast focus. 1

editor's note.

focus COFFS COAST

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editor.

from the

Welcome to the April issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

ack in 2012 when I moved here, John Arkan got wind that I was the new kid on the block (or, the Mall on market day).

He yelled out to me and demanded I try one of his samosas. He then stung me

joey@focusmag.com.au

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

five bucks for it! I immediately thought,

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone

“I like you”.

COPY EDITOR Jo Atkins

Then I moved to the Woolgoolga

kyle@focusmag.com.au jo@focusmag.com.au

headland and well, there’s no hiding

PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell

from John Arkan in Woolgoolga. His

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.

Melly Shute.

wife works at the library (yes, I still borrow books from the library) ... Not

the next day, John had stuck a post it note on the windscreen asking to buy it! Who are you? Seriously! Woolgoolga is one of my favourite places in the world, and I wanted to use this edition to acknowledge that. There are the obvious things like the beach, kangaroos on the beach, the people, and the pace. But dig a bit deeper, and you’ll find that Woolgoolga is a place where people have banded together to ensure their community is self sufficient, with all the trimmings the bigger places enjoy. Great coffee, good chefs, local produce, warm people - all the things that make a place tick. When people think of Woolgoolga, they often think of

the huge Indian community that resides there - generations of Australians who just so happen to be of Indian descent, still living by their traditional values. Amazing, right? The Sikh community and the younger Sikhs are extremely giving, with fundraising being a popular event on their calendar. When we shot John for the front cover of our Woolgoolga edition, he came in, un-ironed shirt, gabbing loudly on his phone in Indian. John Arkan is a nice man. Such a character. He is proud - a trait I quite like in a person.“Curry on”. FINAL SAY “Woopi - the Australian Riviera” - Danielle Wallace.

WALKER GROUP DPS to mention his jolly presence at the

Bollywood Beach Markets. My friend’s car once broke down out the front of

his house. When she went to pick it up

Melly Shute – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Instagram: @le_mellyshute

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coffs coast focus. 5

14.

inside this

Bello Winter Music. The team behind the successful Mullum Music Festival is thrilled to announce the addition of another family friendly, small town music event to the festival calendar.

Issue 55 - April 2015

John Arkan. John Arkan’s family migrated to Australia from India in 1890, initially coming here to pave a career in the farming industry.

46.

40.

9. what’s on for April 30. eat featuring local restaurants 68. tourism with Tourism Coffs

70. social scene with Carole Beros 74. star guide with Terri

Coast

Samantha Mountstephen. Samantha Mountstephen experiences joy through cakes, cupcakes and cookies. Trained by Planet Cake Sydney, where she was a facilitator and teacher and with an honours in archaeology, it’s baking and decorating that makes Sam’s heart warm ...

6 coffs coast focus.

usual suspects.

the

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focusinterview.

green house tav

greenhouse tavern • T U R N S

2 1 •

Tobias Wiedemann,Venue Manager and Licensee, is pretty much a part of the furniture at the Greenhouse Tavern, having started there almost ten years ago. After a stint down in Newcastle, Tobias is back celebrating the venue’s 21st birthday!

he Greenhouse Tavern is an iconic part of our region. What is the history of the hotel? When did it turn from the former Gardens Motel into the Greenhouse

take advantage of the region's great climate. So, to that end almost the entire north side has elements that try to achieve the whole "outside in" motive. The project was a massive and complex undertaking for all the required consultants and contractors. At its busiest, the site would have Tavern? over 100 people working all at once, The site was taken up by a bringing much work for people of local investment company in the region. the early ‘90s. From there, Cue 2015, how has the At a time when construction began in '93, business flourished into most venues taking almost a year to what it is today? a were serving up complete, with the doors Throughout its life bought in frozen d opening in April 1994. the venue has constantly he version, we switc The venue boasts several evolved to provide first n to whole chicke and unique features, such rate hospitality service, d breast , butterf lie as the century-old 28 at whether it be a drink and th h crumbed fres foot Cutter "Icebreaker" a punt, a night out for the ” same day. that dominates the Public family, or full blown celebraBar and an equally impressive tion. We were the first venue faux-terracotta pot in the Bistro. in Coffs Coast to truly offer a famThe property was held by a handful of ily friendly venue, and we still provide owners before being purchased by current some of the best facilities for parents to operators ALH Group in 2006. enjoy a great meal and a drink while the kids How much work went into the origiare kept entertained. nal construction of the hotel? It has been How many staff are employed locally? Do said that the exteriors of the hotel were you have any of the original staff? originally built to accommodate the lovely The venue employs just over 30 staff. No weather Coffs Harbour experiences; can originals, but the longest serving is Wendy, our you please expand on this … Admin Officer, who has been a perpetual figure The original design team felt that Coffs at the venue since 1999. Harbour lacked options for venues that could The Greenhouse Tavern is famous for its

“

8 coffs coast focus.

well priced food, encouraging families to visit the venue. What are some standout menu items, and how has the kitchen developed? The good old pub chicken schnitzel is always a top seller. At a time when most venues were serving up a bought in frozen version, we switched to whole chicken breast, butterflied and crumbed fresh that same day. Add on your favourite toppings, and you can’t go wrong. A few years ago we also introduced pizzas to the menu, made on our own fresh bases. What other highlights does the hotel boast? A permanent jumping castle (weather permitting) is always a highlight for the kids. Our deck has just been redone with brand new timber, roof and heating, making it a fantastic all-weather space for any gathering. Thanks Tobias.

AROUND THE REGION //APRIL 2015

COFFS COAST DRAGON BOAT CLUB IS TURNING TEN! Join in the 10th year birthday celebrations.

Where. Alma Doepel Park, River Road, M ylestom (near general store and lido). When. Saturday 28th March - 9:30am - 10am, sausage sizzle. Everyone welcome. RSVP. 21/03/15 coffscoastdbc@gmail.com 0408 207 819.

COFFS HARBOUR CREATIVE ARTS GROUP OPEN DAY BELLY ORGANIC FARMERS MARKET Bellingenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bellopy Market provides 100% organic produce. Farmers from the region, including Dorrigo, Hernani, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour sell direct. Produce such as fruit and vegetables, organic and humane meats and delicious cheese, honey and soaps. When. 1st, 3rd and 5th Friday of each month - 8am - 1.30pm. Where. Bellingen Showgrounds, Black Street, Belligen.

Enjoy a variety of art demonstrations, including watercolours, pastels, acrylics, drawing, calligraphy and fibre craft. Join the team at 2Air FM 107.9, who will be manning the BBQ and playing music. Barista coffee and cake also available. For information on classes, workshops and social painting, head on down! Where. Showground Gallery, Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour. When. Saturday 11th April. Time. 10am - 3pm. Contact. Robyn 0417 650 447.

MOONEE MARKET DAY Head to the courtyard of Moonee Central; the monthly markets sell produce including fruit and vegtables, preserves, cakes, sweets and treats. Come and see local musicians playing in the background while you relax with coffee and wander the stores. Where. Moonee Shopping Centre, Moonee Beach Road. When. 4th Saturday of each month. Contact. 6656 4744.

coffs coast focus. 9

Element Bar BIGGEST MORNING TEA

KIRSTEN HOWTON

The Cancer Council’s annual fundraiser, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea hosted by Kirsten Howton, will again be held in the beautiful Flooded Gums restaurant and terrace at Bonville Golf Resort on Thursday, May 21st. • Black Bramble • First created in 1984 in London’s Soho district, the classic Bramble has been dealt a new urban twist by the crew at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip, with its blend of local fresh blackberries, premium gin, fresh lemon juice, Element house spiced syrup and infused blackberry liqueur, served in an iced high ball glass.

This year marks the eighth morning tea event hosted by Kirsten, who was inspired to host her first one in 2008 after the death of her husband to cancer in 2007. Her event has evolved from a fundraiser in her garage at home to a beautiful fashion parade in the tranquil setting of Bonville Golf Resort.

giveaways and an auction of items will also be offered on the day. There’ll also be an inspirational guest speaker and fabulous entertainment to complement the event. The talented duo Michael Crossland and Annie Blair will once again be the MCs on the day, with the ever generous Emma Rhoades in charge of the photography.

This year will again feature a fashion parade with gorgeous clothing and millinery, along with stunning jewels from the House of Le Dãin Designs at Sawtell, and the latest in high fashion jewellery from the many beautiful designs within Parrys Jewellers, who are celebrating 40 years in business in Coffs Harbour.

The past seven events have raised nearly $80,000 for the Cancer Council, and Kirsten is extremely grateful to the local businesses who continue to donate prizes to the event, along with the generosity of the guests who keep coming back each year to support this fantastic cause.

Tickets are once again $35 each, which includes delicious unlimited morning tea with a choice of sweet and savoury, along with gluten free options, juice, coffee and tea. A raffle, lucky door prizes,

Fine Drop with Rose Molinari, Restaurant Manager, Flooded Gums

finep dr

Neighbours & friends Shiraz - Barossa Valley Hentley Farm I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A HUGE FAN OF A SMALL WINERY IN THE BAROSSA CALLED HENTLEY FARM. THE WINERY IS SET AMONG THE ROLLING HILLS ON THE BANKS OF GREENOCK CREEK AT SEPPELTSFIELD, AND THEY MAKE SOME OF THE BIGGEST AND BOLDEST REDS I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED. Keen to showcase their wines, I have introduced a new Shiraz by the glass, which is the Hentley Farm “Neighbours & Friends” Barossa Shiraz. This wine is a step up in quality from the Caretakers Shiraz that was previously featured on the Flooded Gums wine list. Hentley Farm has recently been announced by Gourmet Traveller and James Halliday as Winery of the Year for 2015. The winemaker, Andrew Quin, aims to “create exceptional wines that are a true expression of the site on which they are grown, and that are attractive and approachable when young, while maintaining great ‘age-ability’”. This particular Shiraz gets its namesake from being predominantly sourced from “neighbours and friends” in the Barossa Valley, combined with the Hentley Estate Fruit. It features intense colour, silky tannin structure and vibrant fruit flavour typical of the Hentley Farm style. 10 coffs coast focus.

Tickets will be available from the end of March at Parrys Jewellers, Le Dãin Designs and Bonville Golf Resort. For further information or if you wish to donate a prize, contact Kirsten Howton on 0419 499 125.

Chloe Shuttleworth Riviera Top Shoppe, Woolgoolga Where do you work? What is your role? I'm the manager/barista at Riviera Top Shoppe in Woolgoolga. My role is to make quality coffee with “love” for each and every customer. What attracts you to work in such a fast paced environment? I've always loved working in fast paced environments; it's in my nature. At the moment it has to be the buzz you get when you see the gratification on a customer’s face after they take their first sip. Personally, it helps that as coffee lover myself I've been a customer, so I knew that it was a busy industry and that I would need to aim for quality and consistency. How good is your memory? It's come a long way in the past year and is much better after my first coffee of the day. Most customers have been coming in for their morning brew since I first started, so I'd say I've got all the regulars’ orders down pat. What does everyone say that you kind of

wished they didn’t? "It can't be that hard to make a cup of coffee, can it?" I hear this a lot, and it's sometimes difficult to explain how many elements there are to making a quality cup of coffee. There is a lot to learn, and I think I'll still be learning for many years to come. What can you tell about what type of coffee a person orders? You can always tell how a person is feeling by what type of coffee they order. Nothing says, "I've got a huge case of Monday-itis" like ordering a large triple shot latte at 6am on a Monday!

focusinterview.

ON E OF TH E L AST

ORIGINALS Hilton Mitchell

ONE OF THE LAST SURVIVING ORIGINALS, HILTON MITCHELL OF VIEWMONT, VALLA, ALONG WITH HIS GRANDSON, FLIGHT LIEUTENANT ROSS HILTON MITCHELL, KEEPING THE MILITARY TRADITION ALIVE.

On the 24th January 1939, Hilton Mitchell N1716 and sixty men went to Macksville to the School of Arts and joined the 13th Battalion. “We were sworn in and took our medical. We were soldiers on 8 shillings a day; we all camped and held parades on the show ground, which is now the Macksville High School grounds. Milton Henderson would take us in his 30 tonne truck - that’s the way the Valla boys rolled. “Sometime in March 1939 a troop of Light Horse were being formed, part of the 15th Light Horse Regiment, so being a mad horse man I transferred to the Light Horse troop from the 13th Battalion. I was equipped and travelled to Grafton racecourse for a 14 day camp; we trucked our horses from Macksville trucking yards and went by train to Grafton. Every month we would ride to Macksville for parades and were paid 13 shillings a day. This included 8 shillings for us and 5 bob for our horses. We considered ourselves millionaires compared to home wages chipping bananas for one shilling an hour. “In September we again travelled to Grafton for a four week camp. In early Feb 1940 we entrained for Armidale, this time a three month camp, then onto Rutherford in February 1941 for yet another three month camp. When the Japanese came into the 1939 -1945 war, we were called up and went 12 coffs coast focus.

straight from Coffs Harbour to New Guinea. The unit changed at this point, In early Feb 1940 r to be known as the we entrained fo ree th a e tim is th e, 15th Australia Motor Armidal to on en Regiment. month camp, th uary br Rutherford in Fe r three “After two months the Americans he ot an t 1941 for ye in New Guinea took off down month camp.” (Aitape), we flew into the peninsular Morotai in the Dutch in a panic; all you East Indies. But it wasn’t could see was them long before I started going running off, frightened around the island trying to as hell. Some of us were get transferred into a unit going down at No. 3 wharf lined up to to Borneo. I soon found that most of cart bombs to the R.A.A.F dumps. We all had them just came from Australia, were full a big laugh about what had happened. of strength and didn’t need anyone. So I “I sailed on the SS Taroona on the 18th found myself in a transport unit, the 2/32nd March 1945. We sailed from Townsville into transport Platoon. The Officer Commanding a cyclone and had two days and nights in interviewed me, and after I told him I’d come about 60 foot waves. No one found it funny; from the 1st Armoured Division and had 9 all the boys were sick and so were some of drivers licences, he told me to grab my gear the crew, all of us thinking the worst - but and start working for him. We took the 9th we made it. Very few of us had a meal until Division units to the docks, where they left we were in New Guinea waters around for Brunei and North Borneo; we remained Samurai Island and Milne Bay. on Morotai for the duration of our time. “One night going up the New Guinea “We carted bombs, ammunition, and coast, we started to change course, and I general transport for all who needed it. We asked a bloke of the crew why; he said a worked 12 hour shifts, day and night, out Japanese submarine was on our tail, and over to the Sabotoy River camps, well within we had to shake it off. The Taroona was Japanese territory. While conducting these successful, thank God, as we landed at risky moves, a few blokes were shot - but Aitape and were taken ashore by a landing not too many. One night the Japanese were ship medium - no wharves, and 200 odd supposed to come through the perimeter and blokes at the back of the barge got wet

“

when the craft ran nose up on the sand.” A word from my grandson, Flight Lieutenant Ross Hilton Mitchell: “I’m extremely proud of everything Pop has done and I know I would not be where I am today without his guidance, love and support. “As my mentor and strong male figure growing up, Pop always sparked my interest in joining the service, through his passion and knowledge of all things military. He often told us stories and recited fun times he had with his mates in the service, and these are strong childhood memories I still have. I can honestly say he was my inspiration for wanting to join the Australian Defence Force, from a very young age. As of 21 April this year I will complete 17 years of service in the Royal Australian Air Force as a Flight Lieutenant and expect to have many more ranks and years to come. It will be an extremely difficult time this ANZAC Day, as I’m currently stationed in San Diego, California, on exchange with the United States Marine Corps and will be unable to march alongside him at the 100th Anniversary in Bowraville, NSW. “Hilton’s great grandson Jacob Hilton Lynch will carry on the Lighthorse tradition for the family.”

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GEORGEHILLIER

On ANZAC Day, veteran George Hillier will share his stories of war with local school children. “I am one of the few fellows who fought the Germans and the Japanese during the war ...“

OUR DIGGERS’ STORIES ARE WORTH HEARING In the lead up to ANZAC Day, 95-year-old veteran George Hillier recalls his experience as one of the last surviving “Rats of Tobruk” and shares his reflections on World War II.

he day after the war started in September 1939, I joined the Royal Navy,” says George from his new home at Riverside Gardens in Nambucca Heads. “I had just turned 20 and I told my mother, ‘it’ll all be over soon, and I’ll be back in a few weeks’.” “I didn’t see her for two years while fighting the Germans, and then I spent another four years fighting the Japanese. “I was 26 when I came out. My mum would pour me a cup of tea but my nerves were so bad, I was shaking. “I was an Able Seaman on the Australian Navy warship HMAS Vendetta, which held the record for the most trips into Tobruk during the war - 28 trips.” George was part of the Navy forces controlling the waters around the port of Tobruk in Libya. North Africa was an important base for Allied forces during the height of World War II, with Europe occupied across the Mediterranean and valuable oil supplies in the Middle East. The port was surrounded by German forces in April 1941, and so began the Siege of Tobruk. Propaganda campaigns by German radio would refer to the Aussie troops as the poor trapped desert rats of Tobruk. The Aussies adopted the title like a badge of honour! “You can’t fight a war without supplies and without the support of the Navy, our troops could never have survived. Our destroyers took food and ammunition into Tobruk,” explains George. “Germans were dropping bombs all around us … I was an Able Seaman gunner, operating the guns and it was nervewracking work - especially when we were under fire or being torpedoed.” After returning from Tobruk, George then

joined the HMAS Hobart and was sent to the Pacific to fight the Japanese, where he dodged death a number of times. “In 1943 we were hit by a Japanese torpedo … leaving a hole you could drive a truck through. To avoid sinking, our skipper closed off an s for air-tight compartment The good new rge is eo G of the ship, as it was dig gers likeHearing n Australia shed in better to drown 20 was establip veterans men in that section 1947 to hel ith than risk the full 900 returning wmage on board. hearing da exposure “Shortly before How can you kill from noise r war the torpedo hit, I was during thei someone you don’t lucky to have been service . know, you don’t relieved, so I was safe have anything against? inside, while my mate in my We don’t learn from position was thrown over the these wars; we are still killing side and killed. They say God’s been one another now.” looking after me for a long time. Like many veterans, war has taken “Another time we pulled into a port its toll on George’s hearing. near Sumatra, when soon enough a “I was as deaf as a beetle from being on Japanese air raid came over and our skipper the guns. As gunners, we were deaf for decided we had more chance dodging months, so we had to write down notes to bombs at sea than stuck in port. communicate with each other. “We were followed far behind by the “I have had hearing aids for years on and HMAS Perth and USS Houston, but all of a off, but recently I received new ones from sudden they ran into 20 Japanese warships! Australian Hearing in Coffs Harbour, and Five hundred of the 700 Aussies on the Perth these are really good. Without hearing aids, died and out of the 200 survivors, 100 died I’m fl at out hearing anyone. in Japanese Prisoner of War camps. “My kids get crook if I don’t wear them, “I was in Japan for the signing of the as they simply can’t talk to me. My wife peace treaty on the USS Missouri, not far certainly noticed the difference once I got from our ship in Tokyo Bay. hearing aids. She would also get crook if I “We brought 300 Australian POWs back didn’t wear them.” from Japan to Sydney on our ship, the HMAS George only recently moved from his Hobart. The men were so thin, you could count their ribs and so starving, they couldn’t Bowraville property, where he and his late wife, Helen, raised their children and George even walk. enjoyed riding his Thoroughbred mare. “Looking back, it was so stupid to be told to kill someone you have never met. “The best thing I did in my life was to

marry my wife of 45 years, Helen; she was beautiful. I held her hand when she died last year.” George has some sound advice for others who may be struggling with their hearing. “I know people who have got hearing aids, and yet they won’t put them on. They’re being stupid. You’ve just got to get used to them. They are worth it. “I wear my hearing aids at my local Lions Club meetings and when out at the Golf Club or RSL for lunch. Without them, I just can’t hear what’s being said. “I encourage other veterans to get the things they’re entitled to help make their life easier. “The way I’m going, with the great support I’m getting, I’m planning on making 100!” adds George, with a cheeky glint in his eye. Veterans and their families are invited to contact Australian Hearing to find out more about the hearing services and listening devices available to them. Call 6652 0700 or visit the Australian Hearing Centre at 2 Lyster St, Coffs Harbour.

coffs coast focus.

BELLO WINTER MUSIC

14 coffs coast focus.

focusinterview. THE TEAM BEHIND THE SUCCESSFUL MULLUM MUSIC FESTIVAL IS THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE THE ADDITION OF ANOTHER FAMILY FRIENDLY, SMALL TOWN MUSIC EVENT TO THE FESTIVAL CALENDAR.

ello Winter Music will bring international, national and local performers to the halls, pubs and street corners of beautiful Bellingen for an unforgettable long weekend of music and entertainment. While Bello Winter Music will be unique to Bellingen, there will be some shared acts and programming crossovers with its summer sibling, Mullum Music Festival. Both festivals will include a Youth Mentorship Program, lots of family-friendly activities, street theatre and a healthy dose of local performers. With over 500 artist applications received for Bello Winter Music, it is sure to have a stellar lineup, and you can get your first taste of it right here in FOCUS. There are a number of locals already working on the festival, including former Coffs Coast resident, Kate Atkinson, who will be returning to the area to help with the event. Kate is currently involved with Woodford Folk Festival, Saltwater Freshwater Festival, Festival of Small Halls and Mullum Music Festival, to name a few. “I’ve been involved in gigs and festivals for almost a decade now on both a national and international level. Bellingen is where I cut my teeth in the industry, so I am pumped to return

she is excited to have on the bill, including to the town and be involved in an event such Melbourne’s Oh Pep! and Mullumbimby’s as this. The line up features some seriously Starboard Cannons. great stuff - some of what I consider to be the Glenn Wright, director of both festivals, most exciting and interesting music around at is a long-time admirer of the Coffs Coast the moment. We have handpicked all of the community, and has family ties in Gleniffer. acts especially for the Coffs Coast, and I’m "I really love Bellingen; I visit there three both honoured and excited to be announcing or four times every year," he said. the very first part of the line-up,” “Just like Mullumbimby, it has said Kate. a diverse community and The first acts that have vibrant local music scene, been secured include TH E BE AU TY so I can see the festival indie folk superstars TH E IN IS being adaptable to the The Milk Carton Kids URE BO U TI Q U E NAT area.” (US), along with Ash T, O F TH E EV EN Like Mullum Music Grunwald and band, IL A ET D A N D TH IS D Festival, Bello Winter Rasa Duende (featuring IE R R CA W IL L BE O LL BE Music will grow from a Bobby Singh), Oh Pep!, TO IN OV ER C.” SI U M grassroots level, working The Mae Trio, The Perch R TE IN W with and supporting local Creek Family Jug Band, musicians, businesses and Lucie Thorne, Jojo Smith, the broader community. Glenn Ebb n Flo, Starboard Cannons, is determined to carry the intimacy and the Coffs Coast’s own The Mid of the Mullum festival through to the North. Bello version. Kate has just returned from Folk Alliance “There is a charm in the intimacy,” he said. in Kansas City, the largest folk music “The beauty is in the boutique nature of the conference in the world, where she had the event, and this detail will be carried over into privilege of seeing Milk Carton Kids perform. Bello Winter Music.” “All I can say is they are going blow people Another topic of interest is the timing of away,” she said. She also caught a number the event. So why winter? of Australian acts while she was away that

“

“For a few years now I have been struggling with how to grow the Mullum festival while keeping the magic of its intimacy, so I started toying with the idea of a winter version of the festival in a different location. For me, Bellingen was an obvious choice due to its positioning which is close to Coffs, yet still in the hinterland,” said Glenn. Kate agrees with the timing: “I personally am very excited about the fact it is a winter festival. Bellingen is a spectacularly beautiful town, and I think it really shines when the mist fills the valley, the fires are crackling and you get to be all cosy in your best woollies,” she said. The Bellingen Chamber of Commerce is another party who are excited about the event and the economic benefits it will bring to the entire Coffs Coast community. They have been working closely with a small team of locals and a select few from the Mullum crew to ensure the best possible results for everyone. Over the next few months the team will work together to create a small and unique event that brings both music and the community together. Interview by Maggie Quirk.

the plug! The inaugural Bello Winter Music Festival DATE: 2nd - 5th July 2015. coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

HUMANS Coffs Harbour real

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.au

CATHY HIVES TRUDY SMITH Art By Trudy What’s been your greatest accomplishment in life? In a world that is constantly trying to make you something else, I believe that the greatest accomplishment in life is to be yourself. Working in the art world since 1993, I’ve had to make things happen, not just sit back and wait. I just do what I have to do as things came along. I dream it, I believe in it, then I try to achieve it. For the past twelve years I have established a face painting business; I am blessed to have so much support surrounding me. My biggest accomplishment is that I get to work with my two daughters, who are also a part of the Smith family business. Adding to my portfolio is my body art, and now I am a qualified nail technician offering nail art as one of my services - therefore my smallest canvas are nails and my largest artwork are murals. There can be no greater accomplishment without risk in one’s life.

VEZ FREEMAN Bachelor Education SCU Student Part-Time Employee at Palms Sub Newsagency What is your biggest weakness? A few weaknesses that come to mind are the fact that I am too generous, and I care about everything all too much. But one in particular that has me hooked is my great love of food. All food. I want. Inside. My person. A customer at work said to me once, "Every time I walk in here, you have food in your mouth!” My friends and colleagues are forever at me with the amount of time I spend eating - and eating all things weird and wonderful too. Yes, and before you ask, I have been wormed. I blame/thank my beautiful Islander mother. She has been feeding me like tomorrow is never coming, and I blame/thank my handsome dad for encouraging me to try all things new. My partner in crime has to get a honourable mention too, as he and I are two peas in a pod and our love of food brings out the best in us - sometimes you need someone to take away the crusts, and sometimes you need someone to butter your muffin, but if a lad really catches your eye, then you gotta get a piece of that pie!

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BUSINESS BANKER Apart from your mother, who has been the person who influenced you during your childhood? During my childhood I had the most inspiring high school English teacher. This man was born to teach and used to make me feel like the smartest child in the classroom! He would ask us to interpret poems. The enthusiasm he would show when I put my hand up to answer - I can still remember his reactions to this day… Mine and all of the students. He used to make us feel like we had won Lotto! He was able to get the best out of all of his students. We all had great respect and admiration for him.

SAMUEL PHILLIPS Co owner of The Coffs Hotel and Miss Cha Cha's Mexican. What have been a couple of stand out moments in your life? My glorious moments. One of them was moving to Coffs Harbour from Bowral 19 years ago. When we drove into Coffs Harbour, you couldn't wipe the smile off my face. The beaches are what won me over - and still do. There's NO better place you can live. Another glorious moment would be playing for Orara Valley under 18s. We lost every single game, but our last was against Sawtell - and we beat them! It was like winning a grand final! We all gathered together in a circle in the middle of the field to sing the team chant, but none of us knew the words, so the President sung it over the mike. That was a glorious and funny moment. My last glorious moment would have to be winning the Holden Scramble at Coffs Harbour Golf Club in 2014. We were 13 under on the 11th hole! We started with an Eagle, which amped us up; there were high fives going around everywhere this day. It was a very glorious day. I don't usually get teary, but that day I did…

NIC DERRIN Derrin’s Joinery Who has influenced you the most in your life? This is one that only a woodworker will understand, but Sam Maloof has been a massive influence in my life. After studying him in high school, I made it my number one goal to become a studio woodworker. I never imagined it would happen so quickly, but every day I go work to pursue Sam's ideology of a craftsman.

LOVE&KISSES

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.

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 three 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 three Filtrite robotic cleaners in the range, manufactured for Clark Rubber by Maytronics, and all come with an exclusive three year warranty. Prices start at $1,099. 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 two 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.

They’re back! And at lower prices! Brazilian artist Romero Britto has a new Australian distributor for his wild range of painted gorgeous things - teapots, wallets and bags have arrived already, with more to come. Judy’s been on a buying spree again, and new stock is pouring in to Love & Kisses, so keep popping in to see what’s coming out of all those boxes. The hottest new fashion item is the “Rubz” bracelet from Denmark - in silicon and stainless steel it looks super chic, the packaging is amazing, and in Coffs Harbour you’ll find it only at Love & Kisses. It’s the perfect gift for the person who likes to be different, and to be first with the latest ... you may have seen it featured recently in the Herald. Also new to Love & Kisses is the Zoomshield range of shoulder bags and wallets for girls and guys, that feature built in RFID anti-skimming protection for your cards and passport. Perfect for travelling, they are light weight and anti-thef, with slashproof panels and a secure locking clip. Man’s leather RFID wallet is $49.95, shoulder bags from $59.95. Dozens of new Pashminas are on the way, lots of pretty things for Mother’s Day, the cutest new things are on the baby shelves ... check out Love & Kisses this week!

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

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JED U

C O F F S H A R B O U R L O C A L S , U N C L E J E D A R E G O I N G O U T I N S T Y L E , A N N O U N C I N G A RU N O F S H OW S “ FA R E W E L L U N C L E J E D : H E L L O L U N A G R A N D” A S T H E 2 0 1 3 AU S T R A L I A’ S G OT TA L E N T W I N N E R S WAV E G O O D BY E T O T H E I R PA S T W I T H A C H A N G E O F N A M E , A C H A N G E O F D I R E C T I O N, A N D A F I N A L N AT I O N A L T O U R T O T H A N K FA N S F O R T H E I R S U P P O RT.

una Grand is rising from the ashes of Uncle Jed to enable a focus on original music written from the heart. Originally from the Coffs Coast in New South Wales, the family band, who have become well known for their enlightening covers of Disclosure’s Latch, Jeff Buckley’s Everybody Here Wants You and the song that won them Australia’s biggest talent search, Matt Corby’s Brother, is made up of brothers Danny and Shannon Stitt and their cousin, Laura. After years’ worth of long distance jams via email, the band made the move to Sydney in 2005 and began to pursue their career in music, under the moniker Uncle Jed - named after the siblings’ father and uncle “Jed”.

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“The last few years have been a whirlwind other people’s songs, but being able to for us. We are so grateful for communicate our own feelings the success that AGT has and experiences is something given us and the amazing we felt we could better g in m co connection we’ve had achieve with a fresh up These e th be ill w s with our fans, but the start.” show its in nd ba e th r time has come to After releasing last fo d is the move to a new phase their first album in current form an ns fa final chance for and really bring to the mid-2010, Uncle urite vo fa r ei to hear th world the thoughts Jed performed to a re fo be Uncle Jed tunes and melodies that sell-out crowd at The w the start of a ne .” io tr we want to express as Basement and since e th chapter for an original independent then have received Triple band,” said vocalist Laura J airtime, toured the East Stitt. “The rebirth as Luna Coast several times generating Grand is not just a rebranding, a loyal fan base, all of which can but a real change in the spirit of what expect to get their first taste of Luna we do. We have had fun interpreting Grand’s new songs and new sound at a

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collection of live shows throughout April. Attendees will also have the ability to snatch up a handful of EPs made exclusively for the tour as a thank you for their support. These upcoming shows will be the last for the band in its current form and is the final chance for fans to hear their favourite Uncle Jed tunes before the start of a new chapter for the trio.

the plug! See Uncle Jed on the Hello Luna Grand Tour at the Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour on the 4th April. www.unclejed.com.au

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BEACHSIDE RADIOLOGY COFFS OCEAN SWIMS

Brooke HansonOAM Organisers of the Beachside Radiology Coffs Ocean Swims are thrilled to have Olympic gold and silver medalist Brooke Hanson OAM and one of Australia’s most recognised Olympians as their 2015 ambassador. Village Sports caught up with Brooke to talk about her close ties with Coffs Harbour, her achievements in and out of the pool and to get some tips on ocean swimming.

ell us about your connections with Coffs Harbour and your memories of time spent growing up here. It’s an honour to be involved in the Coffs Ocean Swims, because Coffs Harbour has always been my second home. Coffs is where my family is from and where I’ve been holidaying my entire life. My grandfather, John Mills, and his 15 brothers and sisters were raised in Coffs Harbour on a property beside Coffs Creek. A barbecue shelter, The Mills Family Shelter, marks where their home once stood, near Dolphin Marine Magic. Family means so much to me, and the Mills generations have had a great deal to do with the Coffs Harbour area for over 100 years. My grandfather, who is approaching 90, still coaches local kids in surf life saving. He taught me to swim and encouraged me to always give my very best and if it’s not good enough, shake hands and let the defeat motivate me to never give up on my dream. Our Coffs Harbour family holidays were always based around water and having fun in the ocean, pool and creeks. Jumping off Coffs Jetty is a Christmas Day tradition for our family, young and old, and I can’t wait until my eldest son builds up the courage to take the plunge. You are a star in the pool; are you as passionate about ocean swimming? I grew up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches

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setbacks, before finally achieving my dream. and was taught about the ocean from a very What do you feel is your greatest young age. I was a nipper at Freshwater Surf achievement in your swimming career? Life Saving Club and spent every summer The Olympic Games hold a very special competing in surf carnivals. I love the ocean place in my heart and was the scene of some and have continued to enjoy my love of of my greatest sporting achievements. I swimming beyond the pool. fulfilled a life long dream of winning I now live in Victoria, Olympic Gold and Silver medals where there are some at the Athens Games; I felt on fantastic ocean top of the world and no one swims, including my Jumping off could stop me smiling. favourite, the Pier a Coffs Jetty is on iti ad To finally wear the green to Pub in Lorne. To tr Christmas Day g un yo , and gold with the coat me, ocean swims for our family t ai w t n’ ca I d of arms of my chest and aren’t about and old, an son have the support of 22 winning; they are until my eldest urage to million Aussies back home about taking the builds up the co .” ge take the plun made all the hard work and challenge, setting a sacrifice worth it. goal and having fun. Achieving the dream and Tell us a bit about representing my country at the your autobiography biggest sporting event in the world, and the motivation behind living in the Olympic village and dining writing it. with the world’s greatest athletes was When Silver Is Gold - The Brooke amazing. Hanson Story is my journey to the What is your advice for anyone Olympic Games and beyond. It’s an inspiring attempting their first Coffs Ocean Swim? story about an Australian woman who Ocean Swims are not all about winning. refused to give in, someone who found that For most people it is about achievement and her silver accomplishment at the Olympic completing a challenge that you have set Games was as good as gold. yourself. It covers the ups and downs, how I was Remember to work at your own pace and the baby of the Commonwealth Games if you feel you need more rest, then take at 16 with the world at my feet, and that it, and remember to replenish your fluids it took a decade of dogged perseverance, afterwards. I can bet that you will feel a including twice narrowly missing Olympic sense of accomplishment and will be back to selection and suffering physical and personal

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better your performance next year! Do you have any tips for pool swimmers to help them in the ocean? Open water, jetty and surf swimming are obviously different to pool swimming, as the conditions can be unpredictable. Also, salt water has a completely different feel to chlorine, so to get yourself ready for race conditions I suggest some swimming in the ocean. I would suggest trying one to two open water sessions a week in the build up to race day. There is a big difference in the way you tackle the choppy water compared to the pool; there is no black line to follow, so you need to be able to get your bearings, and in rough water it is often hard to get a breath without getting a mouthful of water. To combat this, practice swimming freestyle, lifting your head up every fourth stroke whilst taking your breath and look forward. This will help you get some air into the lungs and enable you to see where you are going, which is handy if you intend on being out in front rather than following the pack. Thanks Brooke. Brooke Hanson will be at the Beachside Radiology Coffs Ocean Swims on Sunday, March 29 starting the kids’ races, signing her autobiography and ready for a chat. For more information about the 17th annual Coffs Ocean Swims on March 29, go to villagesports.com.au

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The Education Centre The Education Centre has been providing assistance to the students of Coffs Harbour since 1st May 2004. Our dedicated team of teachers and tutors have had many successes over the last 10 years. From improving reading and maths levels to Dux of School, the achievements of our students have been fantastic. Preparation for High School The Education Centre offers a fantastic new course for Year 6 students who would like to embark on their high school journey with confidence. Preparation for high school focuses on basic maths and research, editing, essay writing, speaking and preparing a good quality presentation for the end of the course. Parents are invited to the final day presentation by students. Music Classes Singing classes with the well-known Natalie Gill are now available in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga. Keyboard lessons with our local tutor Sam Stanford and with many years’ experience teaching guitar and helping bands, Che Timms guitar lessons are now available in our Coffs Harbour Centre. Speech and Drama These classes are available now in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga. Students can do weekly classes just for enjoyment, or work towards eisteddfod and other competitions. Tuition Has always been the main focus of The Education Centre and we have and continue to help many students on their way to academic excellence. Preparation for high school and Speech and drama classes are just an extension of our mission to help students to “Love to Learn”.

Jetty Theatre Upcoming Shows Get excited about the coming shows at the Jetty Memorial Theatre. Enjoy laughs, tears, more laughs, music, more laughs and love! Mum’s The Word - Teenagers - Wednesday 8 April - Sunday 19 April. CHATS presents this comedy with a heartfelt twist. When you get pregnant, you say, “I’m going to have a baby”. No one says “I’m going to have a teenager”. You’ll laugh a lot and cry a little as the mums tell their stories. Blue Love - Saturday 2 May. A Jetty Theatre touring presentation, infused with physical theatre, comedy, film and dance. Shaun Parker’s Blue Love is a poetic and satirical take on the clichés of pop culture, romance, coupledom and suburbia, taking the audience on an expedition in search of the perfect relationship. Anything Goes - Friday 8 May - Sunday 31 May. CHMCC presents Cole Porter’s shipboard romance, with some elaborate disguises, a pinch of good old-fashioned blackmail and a series of romantic entanglements all woven around a score containing many favourites, such as You’re the Top and I get a Kick out of You. Films That Interest and Inspire - Ongoing. Jetty Theatre and Screenwave present regular screenings of internationally acclaimed films that will interest and inspire you! See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office noon - 4pm, Tues to Fri; (02) 6652 8088.

BLUE LOVE CHATS presents…

MUM’S THE WORD – TEENAGERS

The Mums are back – and their babies have grown into Teenagers!

Wednesday 8 April – Sunday 19 April CHMCC presents…

Love is so much fun it can’t “Blue possibly be good for you. ”

SYDNEY MORNING HERALD

Saturday 2 May Jetty Theatre and Screenwave present…

A selection of films

screened at proclaimed

ANYTHING GOES A Cole Porter musical directed by Brian Fitzsimmons.

international film festivals that will interest and inspire on a fortnightly basis…

more information at jettytheatre.com

Friday 8 May – Sunday 31 May Proudly supported by

Box office hours Tues to Fri 12 noon – 4pm jettytheatre.com | phone 02 6652 8088 email: jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour

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CAROL & STEVE

Cleary

Ulong General Store

Carol and Steve Cleary are the proud owners of Ulong General Store, a one stop shop for people who live in Ulong and on the mountain. The store comprises a café, general store, Centrelink, Post Office and Medicare. Daughter Katie and new husband Vince have also recently returned to Katie’s home town to take over the shop and raise their new family!

hat is the history of Ulong General Store? The Ulong General Store had its doors first opened in 1949 by Bert and Mildred Easy, who were early pioneers in Eastern Dorrigo. The general store known then as Mrs Easy’s, was built following the construction of the Glenreagh to Dorrigo train line in 1924. We purchased the store in June 2010 and have since added a café - including an internet café, bed and breakfast, as well as increasing the store supplies to the shop, adding a hardware section, gift lines, sub newsagency, along with a Centrelink Rural agency and Elgas suppliers. In July 2013 the Ulong Licensed Post Office was awarded Network Champion, being named the best Licensed Post Office from Port Macquarie to the Queensland border. When did you first come to Coffs Harbour, and what brought you here? I, (Carol) grew up in the sleepy village of Repton, while Steve grew up in the Blue Mountains and moved to Macksville when he was 15. We met in Macksville as young teenagers, where I worked at my sister’s health food shop during my HSC years. Work and further study took us away from the area, only to return to Emerald Beach when our daughter was two, so that we could have our 24 coffs coast focus.

children grow up in a small village close to their and get my health back. With that in mind, we grandparents. We lived at Emerald Beach for headed north, stopping off at Dingo Beach, 20 years, during which time we opened Capt’n then on to the Gulf, then back to Cairns, where Korfs Beach Hut, later Northwallsurf, at Coffs we saw an ad in the local paper for a checkout Harbour Marina. chick and store man on Thursday Some may recall you Island. With nothing more than being the owners of a backpack each, we put the Northwallsurf at the Kombi into storage in Cairns We love the d an Jetty. Tell me about and flew over to Thursday kindness ge lla vi l al sm that time in your Island, in the Torres support of a d ne bi m co e, er life ... Straits on the tip of atmosph l pristine Northwallsurf was Australia. Here we spent with the natura inforest , beauty of the ra a fantastic time in the next year working tapped waterfalls and un ace is a our life. It gave us a and semi managing pl wilderness - this ve it.” chance to work in a (while the owners were lo e real treasure! W beautiful part of the in Cairns), a supermarket, Coffs Coast every day, with service station and as well as providing our bakery. Both our kids joined us children with a chance to begin there during this time. It was such their working careers, as well as help a an amazing adventure and experience few other kids in the area along the way. working and living with the locals. We went We had fabulous staff, great suppliers, to remote pearl farms, which were still owned and a ton of fun. Northwallsurf was among and operated by descendants of the original those first truly “bodyboard” surf shops of the Japanese pearl divers. We flew to Saibai island mid ‘90s. It was wonderful to be part of such a just off New Guinea on one of the local health young growing industry and to be able to help and supply flights, and Friday nights were the youth in the area. spent fishing for sharks off the Customs wharf. After retirement, you travelled Australia in The locals cooked us dugong and turtle and a Kombi van. What parts of Australia had welcomed our family to many of their festivals the most impact, and what did you learn and events. We had the time of our lives. along the way? The General Store is a one stop shop When we sold Northwallsurf in 2008, our for Ulong and people on the mountain, first objective was just to chill out, do nothing offering the area such things as a general

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store, Centrelink, Medicare, Australia Post Office, café and a place to mingle. What is the best part of your day? The best part of our day is by far the locals; they brighten our day and always put a smile on our face. No two days are ever the same. We love the kindness and support of a small village atmosphere, combined with the natural pristine beauty of the rainforest, waterfalls and untapped wilderness - this place is a real treasure! We love it. Your daughter and her new hubby have just moved to Ulong to take over the café. What is their background, and what do you think they will bring to the business? Katie and Vince have a combined thirty years’ experience in the hospitality industry. They are full of positive energy and have a fresh outlook on things; also, we are looking forward to catching up on sleep and a day off! Surfing, fishing, bush walking, canoeing - argh! We hope to be able to offer extended services for our customers and lots of new surprises, taking Café in the Valley to a whole new level. Watch this space. This will mean your whole family are now in Ulong. How does it feel in having all your grandchildren running around in the store? This means you have one very happy nanny and poppy on the mountain! Thanks Carol.

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meet a

local.

SCOTT CARLE WEDDING AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

re you surprised at how Lifehouse Care and youth ministry. much you love being a Your wife is a news anchor; how proud father and husband? does it make you to see her on tele each I am always surprised night? with fatherhood; watching At first when we were dating, it was a little two boys grow and bebit surreal to see your girlfriend on TV. Now come their own identity really makes my heart as a husband, it’s quite rewarding; I know she feel blessed. It’s challenging, but so rewarding. is a woman of great integrity and watching I wouldn’t be the father that I am without the her stories each night and the way she gets to support of such a beautiful and honourable retell the events of the day, whether good or wife. She really is amazing. bad, makes me feel very proud. I think That’s what I love about she is an excellent reporter. marriage and having kids; What do you enjoy the it’s like grass - you have most about your photogto keep watering it and raphy career? I love being devoting time to keep it The best thing about able to lead our at fresh and beautiful. If what I do as a photogbeautiful church ip sh I can keep doing that, rapher is being able to Lifehouse in wor ndays. Su on ng so d an then I will continue to interact and capture ng There’s somethi be surprised with the such precious moments out pretty special ab ing ongoing rewards. between people. As a ng 500 people all si Your faith is also wedding and portrait .” in unity to G od important to you? photographer, I am enWhat do you enjoy the trusted to produce a visual most about the Christian story of someone’s special day. community? This has to be the highest reward. It’s all about Jesus. I know that Christ is I think it takes a special person to the rock on which I have chosen to build be a wedding photographer, because it’s my life. I have many faith filled stories easy to think that it is a great job because it where I have met challenges and life could can pay really well, but if that is the reason have easily fallen apart, but it was my faith and for someone’s choice in this career, then it trust in Him that led me through. will always be “just a job”. You have to love I love being able to lead our beautiful church people; when you can do this, it doesn’t at Lifehouse in worship and song on Sundays. become a job - it becomes just an extension of There’s something pretty special about 500 who you are as a person, and that is why I am people all singing in unity to God. a wedding photographer. I just love my clients I also love being a part of a church family and feel blessed to do what I do in all aspects that really serves their community, and this is of my life. so evident with the op shops, food pantries, Thanks Scott.

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McGUIGAN

BMW

Photography - Matthew Attard Fairfax Media Photographer/Sports Journalist

NATIONAL DEALER OF THE YEAR AWARDED TO LOCAL BMW DEALERSHIP ON THE MID NORTH COAST - McGUIGAN BMW. DEALER PRINCIPAL SHANE McGUIGAN TELLS US ABOUT THE PRESTIGIOUS WIN.

ongratulations on your 3rd our BMW Sales Manager, is almost up to 10 years year in a row as BMW Rural now and is the driver of our success: 7 trophies from Dealer of the Year. Tell us a 8 years speaks volumes and if you don’t sell the little about the night ... cars, this wouldn’t happen. To complement this we BMW consider the Trophy have our Service Department experts, Carl Evans and Dinner the most important event Michael Murray; both have been in our McGuigan of the year; it was a black tie affair, so I had to dust team for over 10 years and have the highest customoff the dinner suit and find my bow tie. We were er satisfaction in the county. Countless customers in Melbourne at the top of the Myer Centre in the have purchased cars simply due to their service expeMural Hall, a room that dates back decades rience with us. Rounding off our small in history, so the setting was very team, Ros McDonald is always BMW-esque. smiling out front and willing to I sat next to my good friend assist, whilst Owen Boyd has from Tamworth, whom I knew learnt the BMW way over Sales are around was my prime competition. the past few years in our half the score When they called his name first, Workshop. ever out of 100; how I realised we had won three Overall you were faction Customer Satis in a row - an achievement we crowned the National ice gets in Sales and Se rv started work on 12 months Dealer of the Year for all g.” a large weightin earlier. BMW Dealerships from Three years in a row certainly four categories - how do is a credit to your dealership they score and award this and shows a great amount of prestigious title? consistency. To what do you credit this BMW have a formula that enables ongoing success? them to measure all size dealers in the In running a business you can have all the right same way, called a balanced scorecard. intentions and work long hours; this helps, but Sales are around half the score out of 100; unless you have the right people, you will always be however, Customer Satisfaction in Sales and Service average. gets a large weighting. The balance is made up of We are lucky to have a long standing team at Parts Targets, Used Car Performance and Workshop McGuigan BMW who have passion and care for our Efficiencies. customers and for our Dealership. Shaun Ferguson, This was the award that personally I always aspire

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to; being recognised amongst your peers as the Best Dealer for the previous 12 months is very satisfying. In almost 40 years as a BMW Dealer, this is only the second time we have been awarded number 1. So what's new for BMW this year? There is always something new to talk about when it comes to BMW. Recently we have launched the All New BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, a small car with lots of space. We expect to see very soon the revised 1 series hatch - a car I’m excited about, as it appeals to many of our local customers. Our Flagship 7 series will be all new later this year; this is significant, as many of the innovations and technologies that we see in our smaller cars come direct from this new model. Do you plan to celebrate your achievement on a local level? Yes, we are trying to get the word out and have our Annual McGuigan BMW Raceday coming up at the end of the month, where we will highlight almost all of BMW’s current model cars; but we won’t get too carried away, as we know that selling cars and service to happy customers is what brings us continued success. Thanks Shane.

MCGUIGAN BMW. 2014 BMW DEALER OF THE YEAR.

McGuigan BMW

Sales Finance Service Parts

As BMW 2014 Dealer of the year, our commitment to excellence in professionalism, presentation and performance is second to none. With over 30 years of local community knowledge and our dedication to detail, we continue to deliver the experience the Ultimate Driving Machine is known for. Visit our team at McGuigan BMW today. McGuigan BMW 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie. Ph 6588 8500. www.mcguiganbmw.com.au DL7571

2014

PHOTO CREDIT: Point Shoot SHine: Creative Photography & Digital Art”

SUNNY

SAWTELL PLAYGROUP

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THE SUNNY SAWTELL PLAYGROUP HELD THE GRAND OPENING OF THEIR LATEST COMMUNITY PROJECT ON TUESDAY 3RD MARCH AT ST NICHOLAS ANGLICAN CHURCH A BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR “HAPPY KIDS KITCHEN” DESIGNED FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES.

f you are wondering what a “Happy Kids Kitchen” is, it is an interactive kitchen with an old play stove/ oven, server, sink and table and chairs, where children can use their imagination and creativity during their playgroup time, while their parents can enjoy being seated around the recycled table and served a wood chip muffin, a cup of mud stew, piece of paperbark toast or a nice cup of gum leaf tea. “What has made this project so special is the fact that it has been a collaborative process right from the beginning,” said Sawtell Playgroup Co-ordinator and local photographer Christiana Ferreira. “It’s been really heartening to see the whole community come together to create, fund and build something that all of the young children of Sawtell can enjoy.” The bush hut kitchen concept is the brain child of Sarsha Symonds, the 2013 playgroup co-ordinator, and current co-ordinator Mrs Ferreira, with the process starting in ear-

ly 2014. “We were inspired by a simple mud sound. The hut is designed to collect its own pie pallet kitchen that a playgroup dad rain water, and it flows from an old and local youtube DIY legend unique pump tap into a big old Uncle Knackers, made for porcelain sink. The kids love his son. Then Sarsha was pumping out the water, able to secure grants and it’s a great lesson It’s been really e heartening to se from Sawtell RSL, C.Ex, about recycling. unity the whole comm Club Coffs, WoolgoolThe result is a come together to ild ga RSL, Park Beach rustic but aesthetically bu create , fund and of Bowls Club, and pleasing addition to all something that of n Sawtell Lions Club to the outdoor nature re the young child ” y. jo en fund the project. This playground that has n ca ll te w Sa funding, community spirbeen designed to fit in it and energy meant that with the look and feel of our project evolved into this the church building. Anglican incredibly unique structure, with Church reverend Keith Macpherrain water on tap!” said Christiana. son has supported the project wholeThe kitchen was built by local up-cycler heartedly and is delighted with the result. and builder Jordan Rogers (Re-Wine-d "Crikey, we thought it would be good, but Designs Furniture) with the help of Kabunthat is fantastic!" says Keith. ka Ferreira, both dads from Sunny Sawtell The Sawtell playgroup team were proud Playgroup. A tremendous amount of effort to work with Gumbaynggirr language expert went into sourcing recycled materials, which Uncle Michael Jarrett in naming the kitchen has ensured the structure is environmentally “Junuybin Yilla-Baamgal janggal-janggal”,

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a traditional Gambaynggirr aboriginal name meaning “Happy Kids Kitchen”. A Welcome to Country ceremony was conducted by Cynthia Kelley and didgeridoo music by John Dzabo were part of the opening day, both sharing music and knowledge from the local Gumbaynggirr tribe. “Australian culture is something I know little about, and it’s fascinating to learn some of the language and pass it on to our children,” Christiana said. “Playgroup is such an essential step for both children and parents. When you have young children, it’s really important to connect with other families so that kids feel a sense of belonging to their community before they begin school and also for parents to forge friendships with other locals,” Christiana emphasised. Sunny Sawtell Playgroup welcomes new members and meets each Tuesday, 10am12pm at the St Nicolas Anglican Church on Elizabeth Street Sawtell. All welcome! coffs coast focus.

Lemon tart, candied lemon and lime sorbet from Flooded gums restauarant.

download our eat. dining guide for iPhone & Android www.focusmag.com.au/eat

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morfish café At Morfish we offer an extensive breakfast and lunch menu, along with weekly, chef inspired specials. Our meals are all cooked to order using only the freshest ingredients. With the weather cooling down, our much loved Seafood Chowder is now back on the menu. 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 takeaway, so why not call ahead, pre-order, and we will have it waiting for you.

beachstone café Be sure not to miss out on our next upcoming dinner night! On Friday April 10th we will be holding a curry festival guaranteed to be a flavour sensation! Remember: curry is not only part of the Indian cuisine, but also many other cultures around the world, such as Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Morrocan, Brazilian and such more! Book your table now to avoid disappointment and ensure you are a part of this fun-filled evening! Owners David & Jayne Hagarty.

Main Entrance Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour 6652 8588 7 days. Mon - Wed & Fri - 7am - 5pm, Thurs -7am -7pm, Sat - 7am - 4:30pm, and Sun - 7:30- 3:30pm.

A new autumn menu is being put together by our talented chefs and will provide both breakfast and lunch ALL DAY, EVERY DAY! Along with fantastic menu options, daily specials will also be available from $12.50, accompanied by a free regular coffee.

Owner Aileen Chen.

2 Beach Way, North Sapphire 6653 6188 Monday 10am - 2pm (during school holidays & Christmas holiday) Tue - Thur, 9am - 4pm, Fri - Sun, 8am - 4pm.

Casay on the beach Casay located at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort is the idyllic setting, with picturesque views of Diggers Beach. Enjoy a glass of bubbles or an ice cold beer whilst watching the ever changing colours of the sky at sunset. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner on the decks, including the Prosciutto Wrapped Prawns, Chat Potato & Green Bean Salad, Lemon Greens served with a Chili Lime Yoghurt from the recently released new autumn menu. Open for lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Book online at www.dimmi.com.au

Spinifex Restaurant At The Coast Hotel, we combine delicious local produce and great value to give you legendary food at a reasonable price. Our recipes use only the finest local ingredients combined with our own special blend of seasonings on many of our dishes. We also lay claim to some of the most flavourful, freshly prepared hand-cut steaks anywhere, cut lean and cooked just the way you like them. Try the 250 g Wagyu Rump, the 300 g grain fed Sirloin or the 300 g Scotch Fillet Surf & Turf. And don’t forget, all our desserts are made in-house.

Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour 6652 3007 www.coasthotel.com.au Lunch: 12pm - 6pm. Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

Head Chef Craig Clarke.

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

coffs coast focus.

horizons restaurant & bar

the hoey moey

It’s back for the school holidays - The Brasserie! 11:30am - 9pm every day. Family friendly. Dining is easy for families with the new extensive blackboard brasserie menu and daily specials available using the region’s fresh produce and seafood. Dine alfresco on the terrace overlooking the pool and lagoon. Happy Hour daily from 5pm - 6pm.

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 bottle shop and TAB facilities.

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Try our autumn dinner à la carte menu after the school holidays.

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 our Easter and ANZAC Day Celebrations in April. Head to our website for full details.

TAKING BOOKINGS NOW FOR MOTHER’S DAY.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

7 days. Mon - Thurs and Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri and Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 8:30pm.

zulu's restaurant & bar

plantation hotel

Ah, the change of season ... Things start cooling down, and that makes it a perfect time to start heating things up in the kitchen. What better way to satisfy your new autumn cravings for carbs than with our exciting autumnal dessert range?!

At the Plantation Hotel, you are covered for a family-friendly night out. We have a great kid-friendly environment with fun activities to participate in, such as our infamous Make Your Own Pizza. All our kids’ meals are $7.50 ($6.50 on Family Tuesday!) and include a piece of fruit and an ice cream cup. Our play area houses two TV stations and other enjoyable delights. Eat with us on Sundays and your child receives a complimentary party pack with their meal. Live kids’ entertainment, starring Miss. Sprinkles, starts from 5:30pm on Tuesday and 12pm on Sunday. Parents, come put your feet up and children, have some fun, at the Plantation Bar & Grill.

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.

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Head Chef David Ricketts.

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.

Chef John Marshall.

Braised heirloom beetroot and Meredith goats curd salad, Heirloom tomato and buffalo mozzarella salad and housemade potato and leek gratin.

flooded gums restaurant

Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill

The new autumn Flooded Gums menu has just launched, and we couldn’t be more excited. With the cooler months almost upon us, prepare your tastebuds for great, warming food, kept simple, though done extremely well. The new menu is hearty, flavourful and bold. Flooded Gums have received “1 glass” (International 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.

“The best view in town”. New Weekday Specials! Following the successful launch of the new menu last month, it’s time to give the weekday specials a revamp! Mon - $15 Mexican Chicken Schnitzel Tues - $15 Seafood Pizza Weds – BBQ Ribs Night Thurs – Surf & Turf Fri – 80 meat tray raffles With Easter approaching, don’t forget Easter Fishing Classic Entry Forms are now available online for the much anticipated annual Easter Long Weekend fishing competition.

Executive Chef: Darren Ryan.

Head Chef Sandy Phillips.

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

North Bonville Road, Bonville 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au

7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30am & 5:30pm and breakfast Wednesday & Sunday from 7:30am.

Open 7 days; bookings essential.

café o.p 81 Happy Hour: everybody deserves at least one Happy Hour every work day, so why not start your week day with our Happy Hour ... and don’t worry about the washing up - we have that covered too. 7am - 8am Tuesday to Friday is our Happy Hour; you can get two eggs done how you like them with the toast of your choice, a rasher of bacon and a cup of coffee for $12, and we know that some days you might need more than one coffee, so your second coffee is just $2 extra. Why not come and try us for breakfast made with love on our alfresco deck and start your day on the right foot.

pasfields restaurant BAr deck Have you joined the Pasfields Dining Society? Exclusive events and offers. Friday March 27th: five course degustation $50ph. Optional blind wine tasting $25ph. Limited places. Members only. Value Thursdays: 4:30 - 8pm $12 casual dine in pizza selection $4 tap beer and house wine Casual, fine dining, takeaway and kids’ menu. Owners Matt and Bree.

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011 7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Chef Kim Robson.

Specialising in events and weddings, email admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au for a warm and personalised service, only one wedding at any time, ensuring it is as it should be just your special day!

675 Pacific Highway, Korora 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au Tues - Thurs from 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday. (large functions anytime). coffs coast focus.

the pier hotel

Seafood Selection

We welcome you to come try Waves Bistro at The Pier Hotel. We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Our food is sourced locally to prolong the Coffs Harbour economy, with our finer selection of meats and seafood that the Coffs Coast has to offer. Pictured to the left we have our Chicken and Pistachio Roulade with mixed wild mushroom and a variety of local radish; be sure to come try this amazing dish, accompanied by Grant Burge’s specialty wines. To make a reservation, please call The Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.

Surf Club Restaurant & Bar

Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222 lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.

Executive Chef and owner Matt Donovan sources all his restaurant’s fresh seafood from local suppliers. Gordon and Lisa from Hux’s Seafood sell fresh fish and prawns straight from their own fishing trawler daily. Matt also buys from Great Ocean and the Fishermen’s Co op, getting sustainable seafood wherever possible. Sydney Rock Oysters are from all along the NSW coastal rivers, depending on what’s available. There is nothing better than eating delicious seafood whilst soaking in the amazing ocean view. Wedding receptions, conferences, parties and group bookings by special appointment.

Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch.

la hacienda 101

coffs lane bistro

La Hacienda 101 is quickly becoming known as the the best authentic Mexican Restaurant on the Northern Beaches, by visitors and locals alike. Family friendly and relaxed dining, so come in and enjoy our quirky, fun vibe. Our menu consists of authentic cuisine and also a Tex-mex range. All dishes are homemade, right down to the corn chips. The desserts are to die for and are quickly becoming the talk around town. With only an 11 minute drive from Coffs, why wouldn’t you come and dine with us! Online bookings welcome. Dine in or takeaway.

Nautilus has a hidden gem called Coffs Lane Bistro. With a delicious range of services to offer, from a light breakfast, through to relaxed lunch to an unforgettable dinner and from corporate meetings to wedding or any other special occasion, with unbelievable location, care for food and service. Local farm fresh produce, value for money and exceptional relaxed service are all just the beginning! The Bistro has ocean views, with a Japanese influence and orientation on fresh seafood! Licensed and BYO options available. Bookings recommended. Extended hours throughout the holiday period.

101 Fiddaman Rd. Emerald Beach 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com Open 7 days a week, from 6pm.

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Owners Michael and David.

Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan.

Nautilus Beach Resort 78/746 Pacific Highway Sapphire Beach 0421 781 231 coffslanebistro@gmail.com Lunch: Tuesday - Sunday, 12pm - 3pm. Dinner: Tuesday - Saturday, 6pm - 9pm. Friday & Saturday, 8am - 9pm. Sunday, 8am - 3pm.

Owner & Chef Norbert and Ko.

focusinterview. with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s

AT ’ S I N

EGGS

JOHN MARSHALL THE PLANTATION HOTEL

hen did you first start cooking? I started cooking at the ripe old age of five years old. I believe my parents thought an essential part of growing up was to learn how to be self-sufficient, and the biggest portion of this was knowing how to cook. Being that my mother was from Germany and my father from Australia, I really had a widely diverse culinary up-bringing. What is your first memory of food and cooking? My first memory of cooking was of my brother and I helping Mum in the kitchen, on the weekend, preparing a big breakfast for the family. We would make blueberry pancakes, scrambled eggs and the like. However, it wasn’t long before she was teaching us to roll sushi, hand make dumplings, and prepare vegetables fresh from our garden. Tell us about your career ... I started my career working in kitchens back home in Toronto, Canada. I eventually started running pubs, sports bars, restaurants and steak houses up until I moved down under to Australia. Where did you earn your stripes? I attended North Coast TAFE right here in Coffs Harbour. Your food philosophy? Always start off with the freshest ingredients and keep the food simple and wholesome. You should never be afraid to try new ingredients or ideas. Take risks; it can be the best move you make. What do you love the most about food and cooking? In Australia we have the advantage of catching the best seafood, picking the finest fruit and vegetables you could ask for, and breeding some of the best fed cattle. Using great ingredients makes

cooking an absolute pleasure and a standard I like to uphold. It’s a way to express yourself, just like an artist would with a paint brush. These days we can find you cooking at The Plantation Hotel. Tell us about how you’ve picked the items on the menu? Most of the items on the menu are fairly standard pub-style meals, while trying to offer the best value for money on the Coffs Coast. We do like to have a few gourmet options to offer our patrons a wider choice when dining. The dinner menu is so good; why? It comes down to the freshest ingredients delivered daily from the Coffs Coast’s best suppliers. Whether it is fresh Atlantic Salmon from Great Ocean Foods, our Prime Scotch Fillet from Holco Fine Meat Supplies, or the supremely fresh fruits and vegetables from Tutti Frutti Wholesalers, we try to use as much local produce as possible. Because one: it’s important to support local businesses, and two: it makes the dish that much more pleasing. Coffs Harbour is becoming quite cosmopolitan … How do you find the industry in our region? Coming from a city of six million people, it’s quite adverse regarding the busy hustle and bustle of city life. I’ve enjoyed having the chance to watch Coffs Harbour grow and change over the past ten years. There is certainly an increase in multiculturalism and a greater sense of community. There is more variety and diversity in the restaurants and cafés that are opening up. I hope that Coffs can continue in this trend for many years to come. As I have said, ”Competition breeds competition”, something that Coffs needs more of. 88 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour. (02) 6652 3855.

Eggs are available all year round, but if we are going to pick a month to talk about them, this is the month. April; Easter! One of the greatest sins that can be performed on the humble egg is overcooking it. Eggs will cook at a mega 60 degrees celsius. To cook them beyond that will actually destroy a lot of their nutrient value ... Making them about as valuable to your system as the box they come in. So as the mornings grow colder and you begin craving these tasty pearls for breakfast, here are the basic tips to ensure the best results for you and your eggs: Poaching: always add just enough vinegar to the water that you can actually taste it a bit; this also means use a good quality vinegar. Use at least eight times as much volume of water as you have volume of eggs. Then when the water is boiling rapidly, gently lower the cracked egg into the water, let it come back to a simmer, and remove it from the heat. Three minutes later, a perfect poached egg. Scrambled: for a restaurant quality egg, add 10 ml of cream for every egg you use. With the pan at medium heat, add just a touch of oil and immediately place in the eggs and start folding them in smooth broad strokes. Once it has become a lumpy custard, remove it from the heat on continue gently folding until it is to your desired consistency (best served while still glossy and not dry). Fried: the trick here is not to overcook the egg. Using medium high heat, crack the egg into the pan and once the sides have set, remove the pan from the heat. The remaining heat in the pan will finish the job for you perfectly.

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

real • whole • clean - with Mauz Little chocolate pancakes with saucy chocolate

INGREDIENTS. Pancakes 1 cup wholemeal flour 1 tsp baking powder 4 tbsp raw cacao powder* 4 tbsp sugar 6 tbsp macadamia oil 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup oat milk

Sauce 200 ml coconut cream 100 g dark 70% chocolate* 2 tbsp pure maple syrup Coconut yogurt strawberries and banana to serve

METHOD. Serves 4 For sauce: Heat coconut cream and maple syrup ‘til just warm. Add chocolate and stir over very low heat ‘til melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

and dollop a tablespoon of batter for each pancake (don’t make them too big, or they’ll be hard to turn!) Cook for 2-3 minutes, flip carefully, and cook other side.

For pancakes: Sift dry ingredients into a bowl. Mix thoroughly. Make a well in the centre and add oil, vanilla and enough oat milk to make a thick batter - the consistency should be like thick custard. Heat a drizzle of macadamia oil in a non stick frypan,

Best served immediately, if not sooner, with sliced fruit, saucy chocolate and coconut yogurt - maybe even an extra drizzle of maple syrup! *Available from your local gourmet food retailer. coffs coast focus.

focusediltorial.

Story by Hilary Davies

When

Comes to Town

IF YOU’VE EVER WONDERED WHY THERE ARE QUITE SO MANY LOVE SONGS AND WHAT CAN GO WRONG TO CAUSE ALL THE BREAK-UP SONGS TOO, THEN BLUE LOVE, A COOL, CLEVER

AND VERY FUNNY SHOW TOURING TO THE JETTY THEATRE ON 2 MAY, COULD BE THE IDEAL MATCH FOR YOU.

he show is described as a delightful infusion of intense physical theatre, crossed with dance, film and satire. The Daily Telegraph heralds it as “brilliant!” The Sydney Morning Herald agrees that “it’s so much fun it can’t be good for you”. Shaun Parker, the show’s choreographer, lauded as “genius” has danced the Tango in Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge, and choreographed for So You Think You Can Dance and the London Olympics Cultural Festival. We caught up with him to find out what a treat we’re all in for when Blue Love comes to town. “Blue Love is more of a theatre show than a dance performance,” says Shaun. The show follows the lives of Glenn (performed by Shaun himself) and Rhonda Flune, a very funny and likeable married couple who believe that they are in fact the “perfect couple”. From a fantastic place where TV soap meets retro Art-House film, the show offers a poetic and satirical take on the clichés of pop culture, romance, coupledom and suburbia. “The idea for Blue Love came when I was singing in a Karaoke bar in Vienna, Austria”, recalls Shaun. “I loved the fact that so many pop songs were about love, and that some of the lyrics were so bad; they were good. Everybody can relate to those lyrics! Everybody’s heart has been broken at some stage in their lives. The idea for a dance theatre work about romantic love in art and popular culture was born.” One part of the show features a very creative interpretation of a lovers’ tiff, cleverly using popular song lyrics. When Glen says to Rhonda, “You’ve lost that loving feeling” (The Righteous Brothers) and “I 36 coffs coast focus.

was made for loving you baby” (Kiss) Rhonda responds with “Don’t call me baby!” (Madison Avenue). This genius word play is accompanied by some seriously hilarious action. The crowd can’t contain their laughter. Blue Love was originally created as a short dance film, which was later developed over a number of stages, into a full-length dance theatre production. That full-length production was developed The characters for the Sydney Opera in Blue Love are House. The season sold da quite naughty an e out and attracted critical th k in th I … bit racy and audience acclaim. will Coffs audience he started “pulling Blue Love has toured them .” ve lo off the moves”, internationally and as he describes nationally since and on 2 it, turning double May, we are lucky that it will pirouettes and drawing be touring to Coffs Harbour. the attention of the teacher. Shaun, whose artistic mission “She sort of recruited me, so is to make people “think, feel and that’s how I started.” Years later from laugh” is understandably delighted with his enthusiastic beginnings, Shaun now the incredible audience feedback that he heads up his own dance company, which has receives for the show, let alone the acclaim of exploded onto the scene with works like Blue the international press. On seeing Blue Love, Love, which are exhilarating and bold. Shaun one audience member wrote to him to say, “I says: “I think people find the works really completely loved this show. Simply the best accessible and engaging, and I have some of thing: intelligent, insightful, interrogative and the best dancers in Australia in my company!” injurious to your health, because it provokes so Shaun draws his inspiration from human much laughter!” behaviour, from finding out what makes us And to think that we could have missed all tick. “I am absolutely intrigued by the out on all this creative fun and genius … complexities of humans,” he says. “We are Shaun only got into dance by accident! A fragile, crazy, complicated, funny and diverse severe stutter during his childhood in Victoria creatures. It seems that people really like our led him to therapy (singing and drama work because it reminds them of themselves, lessons); however, he had never tried dance and they seem to find it really funny!” classes. Aged 13, he watched his sister in This will be Shaun’s first visit to the Coffs a dance school performance. Afterwards

“

Coast. He says, “I have always heard so much about it, so I am stoked we are bringing the show up there to the Jetty Theatre! I love regional audiences. They are fun and up for a good time! The characters in Blue Love are quite naughty and a bit racy … I think the Coffs audience will love them. Blue Love is definitely a fun night out. And besides … our characters Glenn and Rhonda give out free beer at the beginning of the show! And popcorn!” Who couldn’t fall in love with that?

the plug! Blue Love will be performed at 2pm and 8pm on Saturday 2 May at the Jetty Memorial Theatre. For more information and to book tickets, go to jettytheatre.com call or visit the box office from 12pm - 4pm, Tues to Fri 6652 8088.

Photo by Shalla Thomas

Anything Goes

COFFS EVENT CENTRE

Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company are in rehearsal for their latest production, Anything Goes, a riotously funny musical with a great script (by P.G Wodehouse of Jeeves & Wooster fame) and music and lyrics by the legendary Cole Porter. The show is set in the 1930s and takes place entirely aboard the ocean liner S.S. American, where famous nightclub singer Reno Sweeney is en route from New York to England.

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Her pal Billy Crocker has stowed away to be near his love, Hope Harcourt, but Hope is engaged to the wealthy Lord Evelyn Oakleigh, and they are sailing to England to get married. Joining this love triangle on board the luxury liner are Public Enemy#13, Moonface Martin, and his sidekick Bonnie. With the help of some elaborate disguises, tap dancing girls, a crew of sailors, and good old-fashioned blackmail, Reno and Moonface join forces to help Billy in his quest to win Hope’s heart. It’s a fast-paced, high energy show, with veteran director Brian Fitzsimmons at the helm, ably supported by Judi Williams (Director, The King and I), and the musical and choreography team behind Hairspray. Anything Goes sets sail at the Jetty Memorial Theatre from May 8th - 31st.

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.

GRUMPY’S GINGER BEER “Grumpy’s Ginger Beer was born out of the love of great experiences shared with family and friends,” says Viv from Grumpy’s Ginger Beer. “Growing up, my Dad created a ginger beer which captured hearts; his enthusiasm has inspired us to create Grumpy’s with that same passion and vision.” Grumpy’s (non-alcoholic) Ginger Beer is brewed locally in three delicious flavours:

We are not just a website with a mobile number - we have a showroom and trained staff.

• Original - a traditional old style ginger beer brewed with loads of fresh ginger.

WOW FUNCTIONS - event and promotion theme decorating. Weddings - ceremony and reception decorating.

• Blueberry - brewed with fresh ginger and local blueberries, very fruity.

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.

• Double Shot - the spiciest of all: fresh grated ginger and fresh chilli. You may have tasted Grumpy’s award winning ginger beer at Sawtell Chilli Festival, Woolgoolga Curryfest or Toast Urunga, and it’s now available at Grumpy’s Lounge in Cinema Walk Arcade, Monday - Saturday, 10am ‘til 6pm. “We look forward to welcoming you to Grumpy’s Lounge and to sample our award winning ginger beers, relax in our comfy surroundings or grab some coldies for the weekend with friends,” say Steve and Viv from Grumpy’s Ginger Beer.

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Your Professional BAS Agent

NEW BARRE ATTACK CLASSES Barre Attack is a complete Barre fitness class combining the best of Pilates, fitness and ballet. Using a ballet barre, resistance bands, hand weights and Pilates balls, it incorporates standing Pilates with core work and functional exercises. Barre Attack instructor Liz Moye will take you through an intense but fun workout with lots of butt and thigh work. Barre Attack classes are running Monday 7:15pm and Wednesday 11am. Bookings are essential. Check out this website for information: www.barreattack.com Foot workshop If you care about your feet and you don’t want to develop foot problems, then you should not miss this workshop. If you have problems with your feet - plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, hammer toes, general foot pain, then you should get to this workshop. Lauren Harper, owner/operator of the studio, will take you though a series of massage, release and pressure point techniques to prepare your feet for exercise. The exercises target the intrinsic muscles of the feet (those that control toe movement and maintain the arches of the foot) as well as joints, ligaments and tendons of the foot. Workshops run weekly based on demand. Call today to reserve your spot.

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Pam, you are a professional bookkeeper and BAS Agent what advice do you have for small businesses and clients out there? Free up your time by outsourcing bookkeeping to enable you to concentrate on your business. How much is your time worth? Multiply by the hours spent bookkeeping. Answer? YES! More than you thought? Increase your business by investing in your business. With today’s current trends, cloud accounting is becoming an easy, inexpensive option for everyone with many companies and subscriptions to choose from. What are all the services that you provide to clients? • We tailor bookkeeping solutions for our clients, whether they are a small at home business or companies with Payroll Tax, superannuation and ATO obligations. • MYOB, Xero, Quickbooks are all supported by our company, as well as other not so well known accounting packages. • Outsourcing of bookkeeping such as payroll, data entry, bank reconciliations, ﬁling, BAS, PAYG. Who mainly accesses your services? Businesses that realise the huge requirements of current compliance. Due to the ever increasing mandatory requirements, admintechniQs is equipped with resources to access Awards, HR, GST as well as the latest software to cater for all bookkeeping requirements, small to large. Being April and creeping towards the end of the financial year, what can best prepare you for this deadline? Start sorting your end of year paperwork now. This means paperwork that your accountant is going to need to do your 14-15 tax. • Bank statements and reconciliation statements • Payroll summaries • BAS/PAYG lodgement statements • Workers Compensation declarations • Business insurance paperwork • Loan statements and reconciliations • Capital expenditure • Petty cash summaries • Payment summaries and reconciliation (when completed).

Woopi the Australian Riviera

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John

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JOHN ARKAN’S FAMILY MIGRATED TO AUSTRALIA FROM INDIA IN 1890, INITIALLY COMING HERE TO PAVE A CAREER IN THE FARMING INDUSTRY. SINCE THEN, JOHN AND HIS FAMILY HAVE BECOME INSTRUMENTAL IN THE GROWTH OF WOOLGOOLGA AND THE SIKH COMMUNITY. JOHN HAS A PASSION FOR FAMILY, INDIAN FOOD AND AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO THE COFFS COAST.

our family migrated to Australia in 1890 … What initially brought them here, and how did they wind up in Woolgoolga? My grandfather migrated to Australia in 1895. India is a part of the Commonwealth; as such, he was allowed to travel to Australia. Australia was (and is) “the lucky country”. Like all migrants, he came seeking a better life. My grandfather, Oudham, was a farmer in India. He arrived here as a young man. Being a farmer, he found work in the Clarence Valley in the sugar cane fields. He travelled back to India and married his first wife, who passed away, which saw him stay in Australia for an extended period. He did eventually go back and marry again; he had three boys (Keith, Peter - my dad - and Luke). All three boys were born in India, but migrated with their dad in their infant years. It’s interesting to note my grandmother, Chinti, also came out to Australia with her sons. This was rare, as generally the ladies didn't arrive in the early days of migration. Migration to the Woolgoolga area happened much later, in the forties; there was a need for banana labourers in Woolgoolga. Word got out that there was work in Woolgoolga, and importantly, you got paid weekly, as apposed to seasonally in the sugar cane fields. The first farm was purchased and a Temple (the first in Australia) was built in 1968. The rest is history. People started moving here because Woolgoolga could cater for a variety of needs. I often think of the early pioneers (all of them from all walks of life) of Australia - how wonderful, strong and dynamic they must have been to do what they did. You are famous for your delicious samosas. Where does your passion for Indian food derive? My father died when I was three, so my mother had six kids to bring up. Dad had moved from Korora, to Caranighton St, Woolgoolga just before his car accident. Being in Woolgoolga made it a little easier, as it was more or less a town for mum. School was close, so too were things like the local grocer’s stall, and also I remember Joan Pryor’s store (we got our school clothes there); but more than that, my mum learnt how to speak English and manage the family budget with the help of Dad’s friends and the local community. So, I suppose home was a place where we all worked together to make the most of what we had. Cooking was a big part of that.

That means I’ve been onboard for about seven Mum made everything; we were always in the years. kitchen, the six of us. (Our house was tiny; the There are many challenges in this job. I kitchen was the big room). reflect a lot on how I was brought up. As well, Later, mum built a house in a new I think of my people skills. I talk to everyone, subdivision now with the road Arkan Ave. On as I believe in serving the people. I like to be this land we had chooks, cows, ducks, pigs, amongst the people. We are a great city that sheep, you name it, we had it! Mum had a with the right “cook”, has enormous potential. big garden; we had our own milk and eggs A long time challenge of all coastal towns etc. There was a new combustion stove which is the balance between maintaining the heated the house, and that's when the serious beauty of the landscape, yet allowing sensible curries started rocking. development. I own and operate a small So my passion for cooking came from home business. I believe in small business as crucial and my mum and of the understanding of for the development of this great nation of living within your needs. ours. Also, an integral part of Australia and Tell me about your family; how old are me, is farming. Farmers (today more than your children, and what type of work ever) have a great role to play in does your wife do? securing food for all, as well as I am married and have being role models for the four wonderful children. emerging youth. We Saihaj is doing his can reflect on the hard HSC; he is tall and , ne yo er ev work and strong will handsome, 17. to lk I ta of our forefathers Anand is a gift as I believe in le . I like op pe e th g in (the pioneers of which taught us rv se e people . to be amongst th that Australia, the mums about how to great city a e ar e W and dads as a “accept”” and ok’, has with the right ‘co collective) - reflect look for the best l.” ia nt te enormous po on their resilience, in everything. He is strength and spirit. almost 14 and has This nation needs to Down Syndrome. He is be proud to be Australians, witty, cuddly and drives rich in diversity, but Australians us barney often! We later first. It saddens me when I hear of discovered that he had Type One farmers taking their own lives because of bank Diabetes. Talk about a challenge! It's been a loans, and poor climate conditions, driving beauty; we love him - all of him. Then came them on their farms to despair. It saddens me along Prakaash, my princess. Prakaash is nine. how neither political party give a damn about She is super smart, can sing (if we beg her). the plight of those Aussie battlers, yet I feel Prakaash is a wise soul. that often our leaders are wasting money and Then we had Jeevans, who is three. He has young lives abroad. Charity begins at home. fourteen hundred questions, seven days a You’re the regional representation for Sikh week! One of the ladies says, "He has Angel’s Council of Australia. Briefly explain what in his eyes, your son”. We often chuckle that this type of role entails? after the there prototypes we finally got a I am the con dodge of regional Sikh people perfect one! (Laughs). and the Sikh council. We, the Council and I, My wife, Surinder, works as a reference have done wonderful things. For example, librarian in Coffs City Library. Clever we are bringing a Sikh military band to independent woman, loves the arts, music, Sydney to march in the 100 years ANZAC dance; she is currently organising the sixth parade. Sikhs fought and died along side the anniversary of her business, Bollywood Aussies in Gallipoli; we should all remember Markets, which take place on the the first and that. Another example is we have made a fourth Saturday of each month at Woolgoolga. programme that highlights domestic violence You are also a Councillor at Coffs Harbour issues in our community. It's interesting and City Council. How long have you been alarming to note the many forms of violence a part of Council, and what are you that are committed in Australian families. We currently working on, at a local and all need to firstly be aware of these horrible national level? I was first elected to Council in 2008 and am acts (not just physical) so then we can act appropriately to stop it. No Australian should currently in my third year of the second term.

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be made scared whilst living here. Woolgoolga has many young Australians that just happen to be Sikh; what type of work and fundraising does this community participate in? The young Aussies in Woolgoolga, with Sikh backgrounds, are active in all aspects of Australian society. We have great sports men and woman. Scholars, teachers, lawyers, doctors, accountants and of course, with the emerging blueberry industry. Lots of children who may have left the area to study or work, are now staying back to farm. This of course leads to business and work opportunities for the wider community. I have a dream: that instead of being the poorest electorates in NSW with the highest unemployed, that, with careful maturing of farming and associated industry, we can change this status. But again, you will need the right “cook” to achieve this. How have you seen Woolgoolga develop and change in the past few years? And what developments do you think we will see in the coming years? Woolgoolga is the “missing piece of paradise"; it is noted that it is a town, not a village, like the smaller beachside settlements. As such we will see, I hope, sensible use of the beach area with housing and industry associated with lifestyle being promoted. Our beach caravan park is a family oasis, which makes up part of the character of our town. The farming industry is huge, which will lead to industries to support the growth, which will then in turn have a positive effect on employment. This is the challenge we all need to embrace, not fear - just like the timber and the banana industry before this new industry. Us Aussies will move to make the best use for all. We are excited for the activities such as the Curryfest, and more festivals to come, which will help maintain a healthy balance of work rest and play. Australians are intelligent and good looking people. The quicker we realise this, the quicker we will embrace humanity. I believe in all of us; the diversity of this nation is its strength. Smile, breathe, enjoy, laugh - do it together, all of us, and we can lead the world with goodness. Thanks John. coffs coast focus.

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rustic mezedes Are you after a delicious dinner with beautiful food, fantastic service amongst the gorgeous ambience of Woolgoolga? The Rustic Mezedes team work tirelessly and pride themselves on bringing you exceptional service that is remembered long after you’ve walked out of the doors. Our dinner is ever changing, from a signature goat dish to our Mezedes small plates which are great to share with a glass of house wine or tap beer. Now serving Kronenbourg 1664 and Sapporo. Try our new autumn menu and one of our new desserts, such as Choc Assiette. Our coffee is roasted by Holy Goat, located in Port Macquarie.

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March saw Sandra and Rhonda celebrating seven years since they opened the doors of their Travel Agency in Woolgoolga, and 2015 has been wonderful, with the opening of their new ground floor office located at shop 1/5 Market Street, Woolgoolga. During the past seven years Sandra and Rhonda have grown a fantastic business, giving the community of the northern beaches their own local agent: “They have really appreciated our extensive knowledge and excellent customer service,” says Sandra. Booking a holiday is a very exciting and personal experience, with everyone’s wants and needs being quite different. Rhonda, Sandra and Alison pride themselves on tailoring a holiday to suit each individual. Your travel adventure starts with your first enquiry, and the team want your experience to be fun and rewarding from the very beginning! Sandra, Rhonda and Alison have travelled extensively, and they love to share personal knowledge and travel tips with clients. The team service customers from all over the Coffs Coast region and beyond with their domestic and international travel needs. Whether you are seeking the holiday of a lifetime, corporate travel or just a weekend away, the team at Coastal Travel can help. Come into the office or give them a call.

THEWILDSaltSea The Wild Salt Sea reflects the amazing scope of different lifestyles people live in this wonderful region - from casual coastal to country rustic and French provincial through to and beyond mid century modern, we can cater for something to add to your décor. In an unassuming location, we love our urban industrial space, which allows us to display our wares in full bloom on weekends. Our friendly staff ladies, Blanche, Melissa and Sharon, are on hand throughout the week to professionally assist you with your search for that perfect item. The ladies are passionate about our wares and knowledgeable regarding styles, eras and design so if you are having trouble sourcing an item, just ask and they will be only too happy to help. Stock arrives weekly, so there’s always something new to ponder, and our eclectic displays are worth the visit alone. Our prices reflect current design trends but nothing’s set in stone we encourage haggling - so YOU get a bargain, our gorgeous stock finds an appreciative home and we make space for new treasures to peruse on your next visit.

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Bluebottles Bluebottles Brasserie in the coastal town of Woolgoolga was purchased by Dan Weiss and Renee Chapman in 2014, both passionate café goers. Focusing on great coffee, food, and service along with supporting the local community, the café has been given a fresh new look, and Dan and Renee are passionate about continuing to evolve the café and impress their guests. With a great location on Beach St (Woolgoolga’s main street), Bluebottles offers all-day breakfast, lunch and now a new à la carte dinner menu along with a fabulous local coffee choice from Botero in Maclean. Whether you are interested in a casual day out or a special occasion, Bluebottles can cater for your needs or functions. Now opening for dinners on Friday and Saturday night, the menu offers a wide choice of sumptuous cuisine, including their Bellingen pasta served with an assortment of fresh seafood finished in a light tomato and lemongrass broth (pictured) along with many other fabulous choices. Their menus can be found at bluebottlesbrasserie.com.au or on their

Robina, Shelley and Kristy (formally from Little Ripper Barber Shop, joins the team).

ROBIna’sHair boutique My profession is not "work." It’s my craft and my life's "work"; it’s a pleasure to come to "work." Facebook page. The great team delivering friendly service includes Neville Mott (Head Chef) and Beth Webb (Barista/Café Manager), both of whom, along with the team, deliver high quality food and coffee to make your café experience enjoyable. The café also offers both inside and outside seating along with a dog friendly environment. So make the 12 minute trip from Coffs Harbour and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, fun staff and a small piece of paradise at Bluebottles in Woolgoolga.

My long time loyal clients are wonderful people, having travelled this journey with me for over 40 years, bringing much fun and laughter into the salon every day! Our service is exemplary and whatever it takes, our consultation process is thorough, to give the best results, especially in explaining how the clients hair grows, so to decide on the style best suited. Many of the holiday people visiting our salon have often asked me if they can take me home with them, as they have never had that explained to them before! Our instant reward is the happy faces after the transformation -

wonderful! We use our retail range of JUICE and PURE in the salon, so clients can see and feel the results of these products in their hair! Instant amazement; such gorgeous results. I've been "dressing the hair" now for 47 years, 40 of these in business in Woolgoolga. It has been my only "job" since leaving school at 16 love it, love it, love it!! Imagine all the wonderful people I have crossed paths with, and well ... the stories! It continues to be a wonderful journey. The salon is spacious and airy and right across from the beach in the main street - where else would you want to “work", other than beautiful, friendly Woolgoolga! It really is "the missing piece of paradise"!

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Cardow&Partners When it comes to local knowledge, my team is your only choice!

Woodsey’sWheels Woodsey’s Wheels is a retail institution in Woopi and has been operating since 1988. Over the last 27 years it has grown from a small retail and bicycle service centre into a large store with a diverse range of products. Woodsey’s has over 125 bikes on display and offers much more than a traditional bike shop. We also stock DC, Fallen and Globe shoes, with over 100 on display and many hundreds more in stock. Water sports are also catered for, with body boards, foamies, snorkelling and wetsuit lines. As the skate park culture has boomed, Woodsey’s has grown with it and offers a wide range of scooters and skateboards for every age and ability level. Whilst retail is the focus in the front of the store, it is the workshop that dominates the rear. We pride ourselves on good workmanship, fair pricing and a guarantee on all servicing. All jobs are logged on a database and we are currently completing 95% in 48 hours or less. This means you can get back on your bike and enjoy the amazing riding the Coffs Coast has to offer. Stocking a huge range, offering personal service and having a passion for what we sell defines Woodsey’s Wheels. It’s how we roll!

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I am a long term resident of the Woolgoolga area and absolutely love this beautiful coastal region. Having over 20 years’ experience in the real estate industry, I have seen many changes and growth around the area, and I can only see this magnificent area improving and growing at a further rapid pace. From the beautiful beaches to the tropical hinterlands, you will be hard pressed to find a location as magnificent as this. I strive to have a company that exceeds clients’ expectations and make every effort to keep up to date with technology and marketing trends. Having started in Real Estate in 1994 working as a receptionist, through to Permanent Property Management, Commercial Management, Holiday Accommodation and Real Estate Sales, I have had thorough experience in all areas of the real estate industry. The Cardow & Partners Property Group covers the Woolgoolga area in the north, Urunga area in the south and Bellingen region in the west, with offices located in all three townships. This allows for a fantastic referral network throughout all offices. We pride ourselves on honesty, integrity and have a strong desire to assist clients with all their buying and selling needs. All staff members live locally and are part of our communities. At Cardow & Partners Property you can rest assured we will always do our best to assist with all of your Real Estate needs.

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be embraced by Woopi - it’s been a delight. I they agreed that the Riviera Top Shoppe, Woopi concept was a complimentary match love studying human anthropology; Riviera and with the Allpress brand. When I opened, I Woopi has the most wonderful cross section brought original Allpress barista buddies from of people every day. We are lucky to witness Sydney to open and train my local staff, and connections, romances, life's ups and downs the Allpress team visit us often to refresh and friendships and colourful conversations all tend train our staff; there is always more to learn to flourish at Riviera! And it’s a joy to watch! and so many factors in delivering For stage two of Riviera, the dream the perfect consistently made is to extend the back deck; coffee ... By the way: our hopefully Council will be kind coffee always includes the I’d like to enough to agree. It would be extra special ingredient of think I’ve a perfect spot for a sunset love too! To complement created a fun, wine overlooking the Great our coffee, we also have comfortable Dividing Range. sweet delights, artisan vironment

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RIVIERA top shoppe

hat is your background, and how have you transferred your experience to Riviera? My background is fashion; design is my natural thing. I have helped friends deck out bars and restaurants; there was also a little hospitality background, with my parents owning the Star Motel. Intentionally or unintentionally, I’ve been lucky enough to study some of the world’s best bars, hotels,

clubs, restaurants on my travels and have been inspired to bring some ideas home and encompass them at Riviera. When I spotted the site of Riviera, I had a vision of what it should look like, and it was up to me to set the stage! Why is coffee so important? Why Allpress? Embarking on my Riviera Top Shoppe, Woopi project, coffee was to be the focus; there was only one coffee I wanted - and that was Allpress. Luckily I had friends, friends of friends and contacts that enabled this; thankfully,

y What would you say to breads and paninis, where everybod ” e. m someone thinking of takwhich have an established feels welco cult-like following. ing the drive to Woopi for What type of space have a coffee? Aside from Riviera, you created, and what are what do you enjoy most about you told the café reminds you of? this wonderful part of the world? I’d like to think I’ve created a fun, comCoffs people sometimes have to collect fortable environment where everybody their passports to come to Woopi! But they are feels welcome. There is a homage to vintage starting to discover the delights, especially now surf with eclectic Riviera styling; you can dash we are so close and it’s too good to overlook. in with bare feet after a swim, or on your way We see crowds from Coffs Harbour especially to work, or casually hang out en route walking on weekends, and we are often a port of call the dog. We really do believe Woopi is the for weekend drives and bike riders. I’m a total Australian Riviera! convert to Woopi and the Northern Beaches In a short period Riviera has become an institution in Woolgooga. What are your plans for the café in the coming years? You are right; from day one it felt like Riviera had been there forever. We've been so lucky to

- the people, the beaches, the scenery and the energy ... Collectively, we are lucky to live where we live. Interview with Danielle Wallace.

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SAMANTHA Mountstephen

SAMANTHA MOUNTSTEPHEN EXPERIENCES JOY THROUGH CAKES, CUPCAKES AND COOKIES. TRAINED BY PLANET CAKE SYDNEY, WHERE SHE WAS A FACILITATOR AND TEACHER AND WITH AN HONOURS IN ARCHAEOLOGY, IT’S BAKING AND DECORATING THAT MAKES SAM’S HEART WARM. SAM SPECIALISES IN WEDDING AND NOVELTY CAKES!

Woopi girl at heart, tell us about your childhood and how this impacted on your creativity? I moved a lot growing up, from Tasmania, to Bryon Bay to Maclean and finally to Woolgoolga at age 14. This transient life fostered my creativity more than anything; it is a coping mechanism and it manifested in arts, hobbies and baking. After studying archaeology, you then went and worked out west … But still, your creativity ached for you to make and decorate cakes on the side. At what moment did you think, “I must quit archaeology and pursue this”? I never quit archaeology, because I never really started. After my Honours year of archaeology and writing my thesis, I was burnt out; finally the stress and long hours of study and lab analysis caught up with me, and I was casually making cakes on the side to help with rent. So I moved to

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Karratha for a new adventure with my now husband, Jack, to get my mojo back. While I worked full-time at an industrial supplies company, Blackwoods, I ran my cake business, The Sugar Kitchen, from home and I still have a realised how much I ent passion for anci loved it. I would work y og ol ae ch ar history and from 7am - 4pm at of d ou pr ry ve and I am Blackwoods and bake onours my First Class H ing and decorate until late el fe thesis , I have a n, when ai ag at night; I was learning t we will mee ve back as I went and it was I am ready to di kind of hectic, but in the teacher. What did in with gusto.” best way! you learn during that I still have a passion for period of your life? ancient history and archaeology Yes, my life took another and I am very proud of my First Class turn when I was chosen as an Honours thesis; I have a feeling we will intern at Planet Cake. So we packed meet again, when I am ready to dive back up Helga (our 100 series Land Crusier) and in with gusto. drove from Karratha to Sydney, sleeping in You then went on where you were our swag, stopping in at gourmet specialty formally trained by Planet Cake Sydney, stores along the way; Australia is so where you also became a facilitator and beautiful!

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The fabulous thing about Sydney is that it is such a hub for cake artistry. It is where the boutique cake decorating market started in Australia. My time at Planet Cake was an eye opener and helped me take my cake decorating skills and knowledge to the next level. Working with incredible artists such an Anna Maria and Ritzy Roo taught me so much about specific cake decorating techniques, such as airbrushing and royal icing embroidery. I was honoured to be given

the opportunity to pass on my knowledge and give students a hands-on lesson on cake decorating. Teaching and facilitating was a wonderful experience; students are so eager to learn about cakes! It was always a joyful, chocolate-fuelled classroom! From there, I was offered a position as a cake artist at Celebration Cakes Sydney, and that is when all my past learning came into play. Planet Cake is a boutique business, and I was required to only cover about six cake tiers a week. That all changed at Celebration Cakes! I was covering on average 30 tiers a week, sometimes 50! I learnt so much about teamwork and efficiency from Celebration Cakes Sydney owner Andrew Hill and the head decorator Kim Watt, who is an amazing decorator and a wonderful mentor. You have also won many awards; what do accolades teach you? Coming Runner Up at the Sydney Cake, Bake and Sweets Show was very rewarding, but the best part of the experience was designing and making a cake that I envisioned. It was inspired by J.K. Rowling’s book The Tales of Beedle the Bard. I love

one of the judge’s comments: “Dark and quality chocolate. I eat chocolate every day, mysterious, yet striking”. Creativity can really and I only want the good stuff for me and thrive when you push yourself for a specific my cakes! Because I don’t like chocolate ... I goal such as a competition; it keeps that fire love it. burning. You specialise in wedding and novelty Finally, you have decided to move home cakes, cup cakes and cookies - what to the Coffs Coast, where is the craziest thing you’ve you are focusing purely made for someone? on your creative side. It is a long list! During s nt ie cl y m t an What types of cakes my career so far I have Iw ith w e lg du in to do you make, and seen a wide variety are my cakes. They free why is it important of crazy cakes go e delicious art! I us t to use the best to clients. From pet gh range eg gs (strai quality ingredients, cat cake replicas for c ni ga off the farm), or including organic weddings (eating re he ingredients w st be e eggs? your cat on your th d possible an ” e. at ol oc The Coffs Coast was wedding doesn’t ch quality always going to be home. scream romance), a cake I have travelled and lived with a water birth as a all over this country, and the topper (this one is imprinted Coffs Coast has so many things that on my brain - rather funny, yet I love. There is the climate, the beach, the gross) and hen’s night cakes are people, and now I have my cake business! always a laugh, but I will leave that to your I want my clients to indulge with my imagination ... cakes. They are delicious art! I use free Where do you cook? Do you have a range eggs (straight off the farm), organic commercial kitchen, or do you cook at ingredients where possible and the best home?

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At the moment I am cooking from home, but I am in the process of setting up my specialised cake kitchen! What is the process of cooking a cake? How long does the process take? I only use mud cake, so baking time is around 1-2 hours depending on size, and my gluten free cakes take longer because of the almond meal. But it is worth the wait, there is nothing better than the smell and taste of freshly baked mud cake! Mud cake is also much easier to sculpt for all my novelty cakes. Have you ever considered entering in television competitions such as Bake Off? There was an opportunity to go to the trials, and I did consider it, but my passion is in the art of decorating. When I bake and cook, it is with pleasure and I take my time. I think sometimes all these shows dramatise it a bit. Bake a cake and take your time, follow the recipe and enjoy it. Thanks Samantha. To contact Samantha, visit her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/The-SugarKitchen-Cakes-Cupcakes-and-Cookies coffs coast focus.

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Vice President Woolgoolga Chamber Commerce - Tegan Ewart

woolgoolga Holiday parks Woolgoolga Holiday Parks are two beach frontage properties located in the seaside village of Woolgoolga. Choose from Woolgoolga Lakeside Holiday Park located 1 km north of the town centre and Woolgoolga Beach Holiday Park, located in town on the beach. Woolgoolga Lakeside offers visitors a secluded natural hideaway nestled between the lake and beach. The park is pet friendly, making it very popular with families travelling with their dogs and also includes three pet friendly cabins. Woolgoolga Lakeside is also famous for its often exposed shipwreck, The Buster.

tegan ewart HOW AMAZING IS WOOLGOOLGA? EVERY TIME I DRIVE INTO OUR BEAUTIFUL TOWN, I FEEL SO GRATEFUL THAT I LIVE HERE AND GET TO CALL IT MY HOME.

here is just so much I love about Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches. Having a young family we love, that there are so many quality options for child care and education, as well as so many extracurricular activities and sporting clubs for all interests and skill levels. Being able to take the kids to the park, beach or pool, grabbing fish and chips or a burger and having a picnic in the reserve or on Whale Watch Headland is something we enjoy doing all year round. There are so many active families in Woolgoogla, and it’s wonderful to see so many people enjoying the surf or paddle boarding in the lake, bike riding or doing the headland link walk. On the weekend I enjoyed a lovely stroll along Beach and Market Streets, stopping in at many of the shops; I was spoilt for choice, with so many clothing boutiques, surf and sporting shops, cafés and homewares. Such variety available, and I was always met with a smile and an offer of assistance. There’s also lot happening currently in Woolgoolga and the Northern Beaches dining scene - from casual to elegant, there’s something for everyone. Actually, there’s a lot happening on the Northern Beaches full stop! So much so, that the Woolgoogla and Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce have commissioned a new tourism based website. The online space will allow for visitors and residents 48 coffs coast focus.

to keep up to date with everything that is happening in the area and will include a comprehensive business listing section, so

The park has lake view villas with large comfortable verandahs overlooking the water. Lakeside facilities include modern, environmentally sustainable amenities and under cover BBQs. Lakeside is located next to Woolgoolga Lake picnic reserve and children’s playground.

The Woolgoolga Beach Holiday Park is ideal for motorhomes and caravanners who prefer to stay on the beach, in the heart of town. The park has modern self-contained accommodation overlooking the beach, with sunny verandahs that open out to views of the reserve, beach and surf club. The park’s facilities include powered sites with beach views and modern camp kitchen with herb garden. Woolgoolga also offers many outdoor adventure activities, including kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. Everything you need is on your doorstep, including shops, cafés and friendly restaurants. The parks are known as ideal spot to watch dolphins and whales, or to just sit back, relax and unwind. To book, call us on 1800 200 555 or visit www.coffsholidays.com.au

Woolgoolga Holiday Parks

you can find exactly what you’re looking for all in one place. The need for better electronic media coverage was highlighted in the Marketing Plan commissioned by the Chamber in 2011. We have engaged the services of local business Coastal Media to create the website and operate the management of the site into the future. The site will go live this month! The chamber are offering a business listing to all businesses in Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches - this listing is FREE for the first six months of 2015 and will remain FREE if the businesses are members of the Chamber after the initial six month period. We are building the site to facilitate advertising opportunities in the future, but initially the business listing will be a simple advertisement containing your logo and appropriate contact details.

Water View Villas • Absolute Water Frontage Children’s Playground • Free BBQ’s • Powered Sites

Any businesses trading in our area who have not yet submitted their application need to get onto it asap. If you have any enquiries, please email the Chamber

Woolgoolga Beach Holiday Park • Woolgoolga Lakeside Holiday Park Woolgoolga Holiday Parks

at woolgoolgachamber@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page for more information www.facebook.com/WoolgoolgaNSW Watch this space next issue for all the details on our newly launched site, and see you all in Woolgoolga very soon.

CoffsHolidays

P: 1800 200 555 www.coffsholidays.com.au

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oast

Pilates&xtend barre Pilates and Xtend Barre with Elise

THEAMBLEINN moonee beach tavern.

Skee Kayak The Moonee Beach Tavern is run by Neville and Karen & SUP CENTRE Edmonds. The management couple have been at the Tavern since of April 2010. is that it draws together a The beauty paddling Moonee Tavern’ bistro isthe open between and variety Beach of skills that allows paddler to 11.30am explore the 9pm each day, for and somecoastline of the best pizza you will ever us. taste. fantastic inland waterways around Skills Full service is served between 12pm and 3pm for lunch and include knowledge about equipment, technique, safety, rescue, 5pm ‘til 9pmtidal for dinner. Priced for valueand andweather; quality, the Tav navigation, planning, seamanship courses can cater for all tastes, from great burgers to succulent steaks. can be designed to suit your paddling requirements, from basic Moonee Beach Tavern, a finalist in thetoAHA awards skills to paddle journeysrecently the paddler chooses undertake. for excellence for best promotional concept, offers a diverse There is an art of technique involved.The reality is that it’s not offering. Being an important contributor to the community, your arms doing all the work. Poor posture puts undue and they are supporters of the Day of Difference Foundation and extra pressure on your weaker joints, shoulders, elbows, wrists also sponsor Orara Valley Tomahawks. Friday nights every or lower back - ouch! week sees live music at the Tav from 6.30pm, supporting local A basic paddle skill lesson for kayak or Stand Up Paddle board bands. (SUP) can improve your forward paddling technique to make Looking for a good quality bottleshop with great range and it efficient, effective and protect your body from the more price, then look no further then Cellarbrations Moonee Beach. repetitive injuries. If you increase someone’s skill set by 5% you So if you are looking for a pub with thes lot, then look no will increase their enjoyment by 30% ... our number one goal. further then Moonee Beach Tavern. Great food and drinks, as Skee Kayak & SUP Centre not only help you with your choice well as being kid friendly with a massive beer garden, the Tav of product, from the extensive range of kayaks, Stand Up has all your needs wrapped into one. We will even get you Paddle Boards and accessories at the shop in Mullaway; we can there and back on our courtesy bus that runs every day. Just also6653 help6199 you learn to use this craft to the best of your ability. call for more information.

the amble inn.

No trip would be complete without taking a drive to Corindi to Amble visit the Amble Inn Hotel. The Top Beach Dog: The Innbeautiful is owned by local family, the With sweeping ocean views and timber cathedral ceilings, The Matthews, and is headed up by Licensee Tracey Byard. Amble Inn offers a relaxing place to dine. Enjoy our selection The Food: Our kitchen is run by Head Chef Daan Duffhaus and of wines byJosh the Anderson. large openThe fireplace sit aonweek, the apprentice kitcheniniswinter, open 7or days verandah in the summer ocean breeze. The Amble Inn captures with lunch served between 12pm and 2pm and dinner available afrom unique ambience by incorporating local Australian Hardwoods 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Our menu includes a variety of specialty throughout the massive 1,100 square metres of building. One pizzas, and a special kids’ menu is available for the little ones. of mainsignature girders inmeal the isdining area ischicken of particular interest, Thethe hotel’s a delightful and prawn dish as it was crafted using a traditional broad axe which is a lost served with a mouthwatering mango sauce. art today. A wander around the hotel will reveal many other Our large beer garden is a great place to relax with a cold drink local history pieces and local crafts, such as the huge set of and a bite to eat over summer. bellows mounted over the open fireplace, wagon wheels fitted Entertainment & Events: We always have something happening to the ceiling and the impressive stained glass window. To make to entertain our guests. Upcoming gigs include: your visit complete, the “Flaming Grill” at the Amble Inn offer 7 Jan – Matt Zarb Duet from Newcastle 7.30pm their famous baby back ribs and sizzling steaks. They are able 14 Jan – Mic Hart + Band to cater for any function and make your event an occasion to 21 Jan – Bits & Pieces Band 7.30pm remember. What better way to beat the elements then to take 3 Feb – Driftwood Allies 7.30pm a drive to The Amble Inn and discover what we have to offer? Courtesy Bus: Our family friendly courtesy bus is available from Set amongst landscaped gardens, the hotel has a large beer Halfway Creek to Woolgoolga. Bookings are essential. garden, full Tab facilities, Keno, Foxtel and 14 beers on tap, Community Involvement: The Amble Inn sponsors the Corindi including Matilda Bay “Craft Beers”. So come on out and visit Soccer Club and Touch Football Team, as well as the Corindi Public us on your next social event. School Sports Person of the Year.

Elise has been teaching Pilates in Woolgoolga since 2008. Before that she spent seven years honing her teaching skills in Sydney. She was also one of the original hosts of Pilates TV that aired on the Lifestyle Channel both here and in the UK. She also established ”Tamarama Pilates” in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs before moving to Woopi. Elise is a fully qualified Stott Pilates instructor, which is a contempary approach to Joseph Pilates’ original method. The majority of her classes are conducted at the Marine Rescue Hall, at beautiful Woolgoolga Main Beach. What is Pilates? Pilates is a unique method of body conditioning developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th Century. It integrates breathing, flexibility, muscle strengthening, and mind and body awareness. Pilates could benefit you by: Improving your core strength, posture, balance and coordination, enhance athletic performance as well as prevent injury and reduce stress levels. What is Xtend Barre? It is a multi-leveled class that incorporates the elements of dance, ballet and Pilates. It offers a 55 minute fast paced workout that uses the ballet barre to strengthen, stretch and chisel the body. Come and try Xtend Barre at my free taste of Xtend Barre workshop on Mon 13th April, 5:30pm. Bookings essential.

coffs coast focus.

HEALTH focusinterview.

MARK PASSMORE 8 T H

D A N

H A N S H I

Mark Passmore, 8th Dan Hanshi, has been coach of the Australian Karate team since 1990 and has achieved outstanding results both personally and with the Australian team in many world Karate titles. He is owner and operator of Kenseikan Karate in Coffs Harbour.

ell us how you got into Karate... In the late ‘60s, my brother, Lee, was heavily into Karate and teaching his own school and was consistently at me to “start Karate with him”. I had one night’s training and was hooked for life, and by 1973 was graded to Shodan (1st Dan Black Belt). Tell us about your achievements ... I have had an extensive competition career, commencing in those early days of the ‘70s, when all kumite (fighting), was very hard contact, although it was not supposed to be - unlike today! If a class or competition was run like those days, we would be charged with assault. Competing in regional, state, national and international tournaments, I basically retired from competition around 2003, after a reasonably successful few decades of tournaments. A couple of the highlights from that era was my first World Titles in Kyoto, Japan, in 1991, where as both coach and competitor, the team received remarkable results. I was world ranked at No. 5 at successive world competitions and held that ranking until I retired in 2003. At that 1991 competition, I had a small team of eight members, which was nothing compared to Japan, Korea, China and some of the other 38 countries. We took home amazing places of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th out of 8 entries. I was awarded World No. 1 Referee at that same competition. At the 1996 World Titles in Japan, my team (Australia) as a team became World Champions, a feat which had not been done before or since, from any Australian team. I have been Japanese graded now to 8th Dan, and teach in Japan when we travel there almost every two years. 50 coffs coast focus.

I published a karate textbook in 1985. I have a full-time dojo (school) in Hi-Tech Drive, as well as running a plumbing business. What is unique about Japanese Karate? Japanese Karate is very disciplined, with emphasis on the individual progress of each student. Correct form, technique, focus are some of the main attributes. “Close enough” is not good enough; in traditional karate it has to be the best each student does. Having said that, to clarify ... each student has to be committed and open to learn; I don’t for one minute expect all students to be the same, everyone is an individual, and learns and progresses at different degrees, but I do expect that those training with me to “want to learn”. I don’t teach students to “fight”; I teach them how to kick, strike and block, and along the way they learn to fight and defend. What does one gain from the sport? First of all, with all due respect, I don’t teach a sport - traditional Japanese Karate, is a way of life. Sport is something one does at regular intervals, either as a team member or individual. Karate is similar at these points, but that is where the similarities end. Most sports are competing with another team or individual; with Japanese Karate one competes with one’s self, to perfect each technique in a continual learning process. Professional golfers are much the same. In sport one can stop and restart at anytime, and fit in where one can. Japanese Karate cannot be “turned off and on” as one feels like it. The gain is overwhelmingly confidence, confident with the knowledge that defence is always with you and one doesn’t become a target. Moreover, it’s positive for work and home, and education actually improves at a dramatic level ... and that my friend, is not a cliche.

Banana & Date SMOOTHIE Ingredients (serves 4) 1 banana 2 tbsp Greek yogurt ½ cup almond milk 3 dates, pitted Handful of ice

Who doesn’t LOVE a banana smoothie? This smoothie is delicious, nutritious and guilt free ...

Sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg

Method Combine in blender and sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon upon serving. * For a more filling smoothie, add a scoop of protein before blending.

Superfood: Blueberries The most antioxidant-rich fruit available, blueberries are great for boosting your immune system and preventing infections. They also contain compounds that aid in reducing LDL, or “bad cholesterol”, and their vitamin and mineral content (A, B, C, E, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus) can also help with vision and brain health. Add some fresh, dark-coloured blueberries to protein shakes, smoothies, yoghurt or even into your breakfast cereal.

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

hat is your diet and exercise back ground? As a child I used to swim, but as I got older I stopped. I really didn’t

My previous trainer moved out of town, so I back ever since. Together we focus on strength

in my body. I ate healthy in my eyes, but my quantity was just too much. I also work in a fairly active job, so I thought that would be enough for me. What motivated you to find a solution to the problem?

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Necole.This month we are catching up with Vanessa Bradley and her Personal Trainer Kylie Calder, to hear her inspiring story.

together to archive your goals?

after I had my second child, unfortunately.

I really didn’t think about what I was putting

30 year old Childcare Professional and Mother of two.

al trainer, and what have you been doing

started training with Kylie and haven’t looked

wrong?

VANESSA BRADLEY

Why did you choose Kylie as your person-

concentrate on my health until much later, So where do you think you were going

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

cook it.

After giving birth to my second child, I found myself at 105 kg. I needed to change my lifestyle not only for myself, but also for my children. How did you go about making that positive change? I decided to run a 5 km run in the running

and fitness training. Kylie works me very hard and I love every minute of it. What goals have you achieved so far? The biggest goal I have achieved so far was to lose 22 kg. Completing the 5 km run last year was also a highlight What are your goals for the future? My short term goal is to get to a size 10. My long term goal is to complete the 10 km run next year and then work towards my first triathlon at the end of next year. What is the most useful advice you could share with other readers? Don’t give yourself any excuses. Become accountable for what you do to your body.

festival in 2013. I started training with Vibe

Work hard for what you want to achieve and

and running with my then 4 month old. I then

never give up.

started personal training sessions at Coffs

Thanks for sharing, Vanessa, and if you

Coast Health Club. I changed my diet so that I

are looking to kickstart your own inspi-

was eating as clean as possible. I learnt to love

rational fitness story, drop in to see me

to eat healthy food and really enjoyed cooking

at Coffs Coast Health Club. You can also

healthy food for my family. I researched, asked

contact our reception team on 6658 6222

for advice from people around me and became

or Kylie on 0414 257 086 to get started

really knowledgeable on food and how to

today.

coffs coast focus.

AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGY And WELLNESS CENTRE

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 form an essential element of an efficient optical solution. The success of complex lens designs is dependent on suitable frame selection. Patients who have not been provided with suitable frame selection advice sometimes complain of symptoms which they consider to be caused by an “inaccurate lens prescription”.

Coffs harbour Podiatry I have Diabetes; should I see a Podiatrist? Yes. It is very important to see a Podiatrist, as people with Diabetes risk serious and debilitating complications and even amputation.

Lightweight frames are a priority for some, while for others durability is essential. Alloys which are both flexible and lightweight have made it possible to develop sturdy frames while limiting the additional weight.

What complications can affect the feet of Diabetics?

Mod Style Eclipse Multiflex frames are specially engineered using "memory metals", making them extremely durable while still being sleek, modern and lightweight, while also providing superior style and comfort for those in demanding environments. In the past, memory metal frames were mostly manufactured in basic traditional styles. However, Eclipse Multiflex has broadened the choice with a range that consists of both traditional as well as newer leading edge designs to cater for the more fashion conscious.

Secondly, a person can lose the feeling in the feet due to nerve damage. This results in the lack of ability to feel injury to the feet and legs. Under these circumstances, even a minor cut or blister of little significance to other people can be problematic to Diabetics. Thus, it is recommended that people with Diabetes should be assessed by a Podiatrist at least once a year. The Podiatrist will test the nerves and blood supply to the feet. You will be advised on a daily care routine and possible further professional help to reduce the risk of injuries and complications.

To see the full range, visit alanburrow.com.au, click on frames and then on Mod Style Eclipse Multiflex.

If you have Diabetes, call Coffs Harbour Podiatry today on 6651 3824 to book an appointment with a Podiatrist!

52 coffs coast focus.

Diabetes may affect the feet in two ways. Firstly, the blood supplyto the feet can be compromised due to damage to the blood vessels. This makes it harder to heal any injuries.

We are excited to introduce you to our new APAWC team members, Dr Ian Nisbet, Alira Bayndrian and Steve Smithers. Ian is a Forensic Psychologist with years of experience working in Juvenile Justice, Griffith University and as a School Counsellor. Ian has a special interest in working with children, youth and men. Ian works with adjustment issues for both teens and men experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression, conduct problems, court and legal assessments, school behaviour, and parent/teen relationship issues. Alira is a Clinical Psychologist and a local who moved back after working as a Manager and Clinician at the Child and Youth Mental Health Service in Alice Springs. Alira has extensive experience working with children, young people and families experiencing mental health issues, including emotional and behavioural disorders, trauma, foster carers and children in alternative care. Steve is a Coffs Harbour local, and our newest Provisional Psychologist, who has an interest in men’s health and will be providing biofeedback and counselling. To access a psychologist there are a number of pathways; please contact us for more information on 6699 3820 or info@apawc.com.au or www.apawc.com.au or like us on Facebook.

Vasectomy+ Vein Centre with Dr Mark Elvy

r Elvy, how long have you been practicing medicine, and when did you begin practicing in Coffs Harbour?

I graduated in 1980 from the UNSW School of Medicine and began medical practice in Coffs Harbour in 1984. Over the last 15 years I have sub-specialised in Phlebology and Vasectomy and have dedicated my practice full-time to these areas of medicine and surgery. My practices are in Coffs Harbour and Sydney CBD. In 2001, I was awarded a Foundation Fellowship of the Australasian College of Phlebology and am currently the Director of the Vasectomy and Vein Centre in Coffs Harbour and Medical Director for Sydney Vasectomy. Once a fortnight I consult at “uRepublic” , a specialist cosmetic Dermatology practice in Sydney CBD and provide services to patients with varicose vein problems. People would assume that you treat all things “veins” and mainly have a female clientele. What are the other areas of

interest in your medical practice? There are two distinct areas of clinical practice in my clinics: 1. Phlebology (the study of vein disease) This includes varicose veins, spider veins, swollen and painful legs. Both males and females can develop varicose and spider veins and attend for assessment and treatment. We treat varicose vein disease for three main reasons - the cosmetic appearance (ugly varicose or spider veins), the symptoms (aching, throbbing, tired legs and associated swelling), and finally to reduce the chance of complications (venous pigmentation, dermatitis, bleeding, thrombosis and leg ulcers). 2. Vasectomy We provide the latest technique in permanent contraception for couples who have completed their family. This is known as the no scalpel open ended vasectomy. This service is provided in our rooms in Coffs Harbour and Sydney. See our website for details (www.sydneyvasectomy.com.au)

Do patients need a referral to access you services? Patients wishing to have treatment at our centre in Coffs Harbour for vein conditions or vasectomy do not need referrals. Referrals are required in our specialist Sydney vein practice. I believe many of the services you provide do not require patients to be too inconvenienced and some procedures are even painless - can you explain what patients can expect? Over the last 10 years, with advancements in the management of varicose veins, treatments can occur out of hospital. The use of anaesthetic nerve blocks and inhaled analgesics treatment has made the treatment of varicose veins more acceptable. Patients can

usually return to work the same or next day and sporting activities within a week. No scalpel Vasectomy is minimally invasive, performed with inhaled analgesia and local anaesthetic, again with no discomfort. Most men can return to work in 1 to 2 days and sporting activities soon after. Dr Elvy, in your spare time, where can we find you, and what do you enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast? Often in the morning you can find me at the O.P 81 or the Jetty for my coffee and paper or cycling to Sawtell for lunch at Split Café on the weekends. It is the active lifestyle, laidback summers and raw beauty that I enjoy most about living on the Coffs Coast. The Mid North Coast offers bike and running tracks and untouched beaches.

coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

Baringa Rehabilitation We’ll Get You Moving

KYLIE MARGETSON

ell me about yourself ...

JANE HUDSON

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

ell me about yourself ... I grew assist injured people return to meaningful up on the Gold Coast and loved the work. This was very rewarding and allowed me beach life. After school I studied to work with a diverse range of people. My Health Science at Griffith University career goal was to work in a hospital setting, so I migrated out of Occupational Rehabilitation on the Gold Coast; however, decided to change and started working at Baringa Private degrees to Occupational Therapy. I Hospital in 2013. Since this time did the big move to Townsville I have had a broad range of in 2007, where I completed experience working with the my studies in Occupational After finishing I Day Rehabilitation outpaTherapy and graduated university, e ov tient programmes. I have in 2010. I wanted to wanted to m e E ast th n also been fortunate to back dow cured a become an Occupational se d an work on the wards with Coast Therapist after our fambour. ar H fs of C in b inpatient rehabilitation jo ily cared for my grandin have now livedears , I and palliative care. mother to avoid placing the area for 4 gyit .” What is the most rewardher into care. I saw how and I’m lovin ing aspect of OT? The most important it was for somerewarding part of my job is to one to remain independent and see people reach their goals and be able to maintain these life roles in doing this, achieve independence in as long as possible. their lives. Even what some people may see After finishing university I wanted to move as such a small goal can mean the world to the back down the East Coast and secured a job patient when they achieve this. I work with a lot in Coffs Harbour. I have now lived in the area of stroke patients, and even such a small gain for four years, and I’m loving it. can mean the difference between someone What areas of OT have you worked in? I assisting them to eat and the patient being started working in the area of Occupational able to grasp a fork and bring it to their mouth independently. Rehabilitation as a new grad, where I would

“

I was born in Papua New Guinea and spent the first 14 years of my life there, enjoying a cross cultural and relaxed childhood. Growing up there gave me an appreciation for people of all ages and nationalities. After moving to Sydney for my last four years of high school, I completed my Physiotherapy studies at Cumberland College (Sydney University) in 1995. Being married to a church minister/Army chaplain has meant several moves with our three boys. I enjoy a job which allows me to work part-time and pick up work in regional areas. We have really enjoyed our time in Coffs Harbour over the past two years, connecting with the community and enjoying outdoor family time together. Part-time work allows me to be involved in church life and meet the needs of busy family life, which I enjoy a lot. What areas of Physiotherapy have you worked in? Most of my physiotherapy career has been hospital based. I spent my graduate year at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney. I then spent several years working in the transplant unit at St. Vincent’s Hospital. I enjoyed preparing patients in the lead up to a heart or lung transplant then treating them through their intensive care and rehabilitation afterwards. These were some of the most motivated patients I have worked with, as they worked hard to prepare for their surgery and post recovery. It was a privilege to journey with them and their families as they experienced the miracle of donated organs, giving them a new lease of life. I also worked at Wollongong Hospital as Senior Physiotherapist for the surgical ward. I then moved into the teaching of prenatal classes at

If you want to know more about the services and programmes run at Baringa Rehabilitation, contact them on 6658 0322.

54 coffs coast focus.

PHYSIOTHERAPIST

St. George Hospital, as I was then having my own children, and evening and weekend hours suited me. Really enjoyed journeying with expectant parents, as both educator and peer in the experience of pregnancy and childbirth! It was great to share the antenatal care with midwives, an example of health care workers each bringing their unique knowledge to patient care. Physiotherapy since having children has involved part-time and locum work in rehabilitation and aged care. Having lived in Victoria and South Australia, I am grateful for national registration. I have now been part-time at Baringa Rehabilitation for just over two years, in the areas of outpatients, hydrotherapy and women’s health. What is the most rewarding aspect of Physiotherapy? One of the most rewarding aspects of work for me is being able to journey with patients when they are experiencing transition in life, whether that be becoming parents, or experiencing new capacity as organ donor recipients, or adjusting to the ageing process. Outpatient Physiotherapy allows me to journey with patients in pain, and it is rewarding to be able to assist them to repair, and learn strategies to manage. I enjoy seeing patients put into practice exercises and education that will assist them to recover. What Physiotherapy does Baringa Rehabilitation offer? Outpatients at Baringa Rehabilitation offers gym based and hydrotherapy rehabilitation to patients, both in a one to one and group setting. It caters for patients requiring women’s health treatment, rehabilitation from work injuries, and treatment for common aches and pains.

BREAST REDUCTION S U R G E R Y

Breast hypertrophy (enlargement) can be an early problem for a woman or a gradual increase in size over the years, causing neck, shoulder and back pain , restriction in mobility and exercise and significant difficulty in getting well fitting clothes including brassieres.

rinciples of surgery Surgery involves reduction of skin and breast tissue (which is made up of glandular tissue and fat ) and also the elevation of the

nipple-aerola complex. The method of choice While there are many methods to reduce the breast,

of shape takes up to 6 months. However, the initial three weeks is a key period in the healing process , during which there are many restrictions on the activities permitted. A specially designed compression garment is also used for the first three months. Time off work, including at home and looking after

the vertical mammaplasty, initially described by the

young children, for at least the first three weeks after

French surgeon Dr. Daniel Marchack, later popularised

surgery helps in the recovery from surgery.

by Prof Madeline LeJour of the University of Brussels in Belgium and now fine tuned by Dr. Elisabeth Hall-Findlay of Banff in Canada, is a very sound technique. It gives an excellent reduction of breast size, good nipple-aereola

Breast droop ( Ptosis ) is also well-corrected, with a very similar technique, the vertical masto-pexy. There are a number of operations, for correction of ptosis, which use skin-tightening techniques.

complex elevation, minimal scarring and excellent long-

While technically simpler and less time-consuming,

term results, with maintenance of shape and position.

the improvement is short lived, due to the restretching

Postoperatively restrictions

of the tightened skin.

The surgery is done under general anaesthesia, usually as an inpatient in hospital. While surface healing takes place rapidly, internal healing , the regaining of strength, and the restoration

The vertical masto-pexy, is quite similar to the vertical mammaplasty, but with a very small reduction of breast tissue, and with an excellent lift of the breasts and nipple-aerola complex, and with long-lasting results.

coffs coast focus.

sc ool thi si Sheree, Col, Louise.

Coffs Coast Nutrition What can we do for you? Coffs Coast Nutrition identified a need for a service that caters to all areas of health and wellness. Our goal is to encourage and motivate people to improve their health, so that they can live life to the fullest. Whether you want to increase your energy levels and self confidence, learn how to manage a medical condition with nutritional therapy, improve your fitness and strength, lose weight, shed body fat, tone up or re-shape your body, then we can help. Our team: Our team consists of highly experienced university qualified Nutritionists and Health Coaches. We also employ a Personal Trainer, whose focus is on ensuring that people of varying abilities and fitness levels receive a fun, time-efficient workout without fear of feeling intimidated. Personal training: We offer one-on-one training as well as small group training. If you’re time-poor and have had difficulty committing to regular exercise in the past, but know what shape you’d

like to be in, then give us a call. Don’t waste money on expensive gym memberships and home exercise equipment that you may never use.You can exercise in the privacy of our air conditioned studio gym, or feel free to organise outdoor sessions. The choice is yours. We can fit in with whatever time you prefer, whether it’s early morning, during the day, or later in the evening. Nutrition & health coaching: Our Nutritionists and Health Coaches will motivate you to gain control of your health and feel happier and more energised. We can also help you to manage a medical condition with nutritional therapy. Why not ask about our weekly, fortnightly and monthly individualised meal plans or our computerised dietary analysis? These options are also available to people who prefer an email consultation. Sports people can receive nutritional guidance based on the latest scientific evidence, from our Accredited Sports Dietitian. We don’t sell sports products or supplements, so you can rest assured that the advice we provide is unbiased.

t h e

FITBIT

n e w

b u z z

w o r d

CHANCES ARE YOU’VE RECENTLY HEARD ABOUT THE FITBIT. BUT WHAT IS IT? The Fitbit Flex is a hard-working fitness tracker that monitors your daily exercise and encourages you to stay healthy. Whether you’re close to your weight loss goal or far from it, the Flex is an excellent device that counts your steps, calculates your burned calories and more. It stands above the competition when it comes to accuracy, comfort and usability, making this personal fitness device our choice for the Top Ten Reviews Gold Award for fitness trackers. Tracking features with the Fitbit Flex include the usual steps taken, distance travelled and calories burned. In addition to the normal tracking options, it also looks at your food intake, weight and sleep to manage all aspects of your health. In the

sleep mode, the Flex monitors how many times you toss and turn and if you get up in the middle of the night. It calculates this data and estimates your quality of sleep. A heart rate monitor isn’t built in, but we’ve found that even the best fitness trackers have trouble calculating an accurate heart rate. The Flex does a great job accurately tracking your steps taken and other metrics but does have a hard time estimating calories burned. Compared to other fitness trackers, however, the Flex is one of the most accurate devices we tested. Slip it on like a bracelet, and you’re on your way to a healthier you. Available in lots of colours, it’s the perfect gift for people - no matter their fitness goals. www.fitbit.com

protein balls

By Melly Shute.

Sugar Free Protein Balls These sugar free protein balls are so easy to make. I usually make a batch for the week and find they keep me super satisfied when I need a quick energy boost - or have a sugar craving! Because they’re free from processed sugar, you won’t experience the same blood sugar roller coaster. Try whipping up a batch this weekend - you’ll be prepped with healthy snacks before the work week even starts. And get creative! You can try a variety of different nuts and mix-ins to make each bite uniquely delicious. I’ve loved using chocolate protein powder in mine.

Ingredients (serves 10) 4 tbsp LSA or 4 tbsp chocolate protein powder

1 tbsp chia seeds/psyllium husk - for the fibre hit

2 tbsp mixed seeds (I like pumpkin and sunflower seeds)

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp cacao

¼- ½ cup warm filtered water - start small and add more as needed

2 heaped tbsp almond butter

2 tsp stevia powder/drops

Method 1. In a high-powered blender or food processor, add all the ingredients and blend until the mixture is smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too wet, add more LSA mix; if the mixture is too dry, add a splash of warm water. 2. Roll into balls of your desired size and refrigerate. 3. These can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to seven days. 56 coffs coast focus.

A Community of Care

A lifetime of caring – from childhood dream to the present day Margaret’s Story The Profke Aged Care Group and Coffs Harbour Nursing Centre is the result of a lifelong dedication to the care of the elderly by our founder Margaret Profke. Her journey to provide excellence in the industry is embodied in the the community of care each of our residents enjoy. Our approach to aged care is reflected in our vision, ‘Living the Profke Way’ Passion. Respect. Optimism. Flexibility. Kindness. Empathy. Margaret developed a passion for nursing in her early years, beginning her nurse training at the age of seventeen. In the late 1960s she accepted the position of Charge Sister in Ward G5, the Professorial Unit of the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane. Working as a registered nurse at the hospital, Margaret became aware of the shortage of nursing home beds. Medial wards reached capacity with the elderly who were not capable of self-care and remained in acute hospital wards for many weeks and often months. Her curiosity in aged care motivated her to transfer to an aged care unit in Wynnum which gave her the opportunity to learn and understand the intricacies of running an aged care facility. Taking this knowledge and experience, she partly owned

and operated a private nursing home in Pimpama and during these 6 years, Mrs Profke’s son and wife Anne also took an interest. After selling her share in 1983, Margaret focused on setting up a family company with the intention of expanding the business. She went on to purchase Noosa Nursing Centre, expanding into Gympie with an active and strong input from family members.

Together, Profke represents a dedicated group of accredited and trained individuals who have devoted their working lives to the well-being and care of others and plans to continue this philosophy well into the future.

It was in 1996 when The Coffs Harbour Nursing Centre was purchased, then an 80 bed nursing home soon expanded to a 147 bed facility that is currently run by Stephen Profke and wife, Diane. Stephen then went on to build a new aged care home at South West Rocks and was completed in 2011. Margaret (centre) with colleagues early in her nursing career.

To make an enquiry, or to inspect our newly renovated couples accommodation, please call reception on (02) 6652 1494 or email us directly on receptioncoffs@pacg.com.au

www.pacg.com.au

coffs coast focus.

movement is for life My entire life has been about movement, beginning with a love of ballet at age three that continued through a 12 year dance career in Europe. At age 16, I discovered yoga as a way to promote my flexibility and strength for ballet, but yoga eventually became my haven from career and life pressures. I found Pilates when rehabilitation was needed from a dancing injury, and Pilates soon catapulted me into new beginnings. I left dancing 15 years ago to become a teacher of Movement, and I now love the diversity of studying, practicing and teaching Pilates, Yoga, Gyrokinesis and Gyrotonic. HARA Beyond Movement Studio was created to share my love of teaching all things BODY MIND SOUL. Visit HARA to inquire about autumn classes:

Park Beach Dental Eating is one of life’s joys, but not if you have a loose, ill-fitting denture that hurts or potentially might fall out during a meal. There are several ways to stabilise a loose denture: 1) Get your dentist or prosthetist to evaluate if your dentures need a reline or replacement. Sometimes a simple reline can fix that wobbly denture. 2) If you have an optimal denture but it’s still a pain, you could use a product like Polident as a short term fix.

• Enrol in the Autumn Pilates and Yoga Intensive, 7 - 17 April • Try a $10 “Trial Class” from 20 - 23 April • Book an Essentials Pilates and Yoga course as a beginner or to resume practice after a break • Book into a 4 - 8 week block of Pilates, Yoga or Gyrokinesis classes for maximum benefit • Enquire about our private and duo sessions and specialty classes in pre and postnatal, back care and Osteoporosis specific training

3) Long-term, the best way to stabilise a denture are implants.

HARA is committed to helping you achieve your greatest potential. Contact Suzanne McCarty on 6652 4462.

Please consult with your prosthestist or dentist to see if this treatment is suitable for your needs.

58 coffs coast focus.

The most predictable treatment to stabilise a lower denture is two implants with locator attachments. A surgeon will place two implants in the lower jaw and after healing, either a dentist or prosthesist can make a new denture that will securely sit on these implants. No more painful pressure spots or risks that a denture will fall out.

Jan Young Beauty Gallery Dr. Fernandez developed environ skincare after seeing two of his young patients die of melanoma. (People don’t realise that their ageing skin is a direct result of suninduced vitamin A deficiency. Correct the deficiency, and you can repair the skin) - Dr. Fernandez. Included are doses of vitamins far higher than other cosmetic products. Vitamin therapy properly applied in correct doses can help people improve their skins to feel better, look better and actually feel better. Environ facials use sonophoresis (low wave ultrasound) to help the vitamin products to go much deeper into the skin. There are many Environ facials, plus peels that can help you achieve a healthier skin. Enjoy an Environ facial before April 15th and receive a complimentary eyebrow wax and eye lash tint when you mention this ad!

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

ANTHONY MCNAB

PROSPERITY BUSINESS

ell us a little bit about your background and how you came to be a Business Advisor? Out of high school I studied a degree in Agricultural Science and spent a decade building a career of working with crop systems with farmers - helping them to increase their yields and therefore profitability by becoming more productive, less costly, and more efficient. Along this journey, I ended up working for a global corporate company based in the USA. It was here that I really developed my love for business. There were a multitude of opportunities working for the company for learning, which has always been a passion of mine. The company was very profitable and had been around for 150 years, so I was immersed in a culture of well-proven business success, including incredible systems, training, HR, motivated teams, tight financial controls and most importantly, a strong sales and marketing department. All the fundamentals of a successful business were right there. By 2003 I was ready for the next step in my career. By this time I had completed an MBA and could see a huge opportunity working with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the role of consultant, coach and advisor. For over a decade now I have worked with a multitude of owners and managers, helping to improve their businesses. Your business, Prosperity Business, is your new look business advisory service. What sort of professional services can you provide to business owners? Business owners are all at different levels of education, experience, confidence, ability and in widely varying market places. So every programme has been designed with a degree of customisation to offer the best results. All business owners can avail themselves of our Business Review. This will snapshot where your business is right now and align it with the goals that you are hoping to achieve in 1, 3, 5 or 10 years from now. This offers business owners the opportunity to speak with an outside professional and determine if they are aiming to achieve something that is real - or if they are kidding themselves. Other customised programmes include 90 Day Focus programmes (attack your biggest business problem using proven systems),

complete PEST CONTROL Business Development Programmes (designed to build your business to ultimately allow the business owner to step back from day-to-day running) or Board of Directors Programme (monthly accountability and quarterly business reviews). We also offer a range of business training programmes including sales, marketing, customer service, team building, leadership development and financial mastery. What type of clients would get the most benefit of working with you? Business owners of small or medium sized business benefit immensely from working with a business coach or advisor. If they have an established business, that has been running for at least five years, is going OK but the owners know there is more. And that they know they need help to take the next steps. Tell us about some of the challenges your clients as small businesses have faced in a regional area like Coffs Harbour? Having worked with Coffs Harbour businesses now for close to 10 years, this is the biggest challenge I see. Business owners are fighting themselves trying to get ahead. In other words, repeating “local wisdom” without really thinking about what it means. For example: “It is tough to do business in Coffs Harbour”. Or how about the most common: “There is no money in Coffs Harbour”. Served with the classic “Doing business in Coffs Harbour is ‘different’ to everywhere else”. It is none of these things (apart from tough, of course. It is tough to do business anywhere. If you can’t handle tough - then don’t go into business). Coffs Harbour is a fast growing, exciting city with incredible prospects for people involved in business. Our local economy has been growing strongly for the last four years, at least twice as fast as any other regional economy. And NSW currently has the strongest economy in Australia. If that is still not enough, then perhaps you need to move your business overseas. Many businesses are thriving and prospering as a result. The challenge is to look for the opportunities and go for them, and stop focusing on the things that will keep you stuck. Where do you draw inspiration from to continue to grow and develop your business? One of my coaches encouraged

me a lot to look for the personal “wins”. In other words, develop the success habit of celebrating every win - no matter how small. And if you have had a particularly tough day and can’t think of anything - then be grateful for the pillow that you have to lay on that night. She helped me to realise that we are all surrounded by success - but most people are blinded to it, because they are so focused on what is going wrong. This has been an incredibly inspirational mind-shift to make. The second place I find inspiration is externally. Studying the lives of successful people (books, CDs, TED talks etc). My clients are under pressure each week to share their wins with me in their sessions - which is a great source of inspiration and also helps them make the mind-shift to success focus. Nature offers amazing lessons and therefore inspiration (look at how busy an ant is on a daily basis. No wasting time doing meaningless things there). Probably the best source of inspiration that I know of, is to take on a challenge that is well outside your comfort zone. And don’t stop until you succeed. Tell us a short success story… Sarah (name changed to protect the innocent) was running her business using all her energy and time (for meagre financial reward). She was tired, run down, guilty (not enough time for her young children), overweight and feeling out of control. Her team were calling the shots (she would work the on-call shifts because they didn’t want to) and things didn’t look like changing too much. These days a different picture has emerged. Most importantly, the kids are spending lots of time (kids spell LOVE as T.I.M.E) with their mum. The excess weight has long gone and has stayed off. The business is under control and is providing a valuable contribution to the Coffs community and financial rewards to Sarah. The building has been purchased, which means additional long-term wealth creation and security. Holidays are scheduled regularly and the team no longer “call the shots”; instead, everyone is fully committed and working for a common purpose. In short, Sarah has taken the challenge of owning a business front on - and succeeded. And for us at Prosperity Business, that is the best source of inspiration we know: helping people achieve what is truly possible with their businesses. Thanks Anthony.

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

OUR PHONES ARE ALWAYS ANSWERED

coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

WARD’S

STORY

DR WA R D WA S B OR N A N D R A I S E D I N A F R ICA. FA MOUS FOR H I S B OW T I E ST Y L E A N D H I S DE DICAT ION TO H E L PI NG PEOPL E ... T H I S I S DR WA R D’S STORY.

rowing up in Africa, why did you study medicine and where did you train? From an early age in my teens, I thought I might do arts and language, but a lovely student teacher came to teach us chemistry. I was desperate to impress her and found out I really liked this stuff. So I switched to science completely! We were refugees from Rhodesia and lost everything, so my student debt was huge. At the end of my medical and biochemistry degrees, it took a whole seven years to repay my uni fees. I decided to specialise 10 years later, so the debt racked up again. After four years the interest rate climbed to 23%, so I decided that I had to go to Canada to earn enough to pay it off. I could not have done it without my amazing wife, Kathy. When did you first move to Australia? What was your journey, specifically when and why Coffs Harbour? We moved to Australia in 2006 - and we were kindly welcomed into Coffs Harbour when we took over Prof. Max Brinsmead’s very well set up practice. Christian Community School was the best move for our kids, who have flourished since. Kathy is a keen triathlete, so the Coffs climate has been perfect for her training! You surround yourself with women; why is that? I am surrounded by wonderful women! Besides my patients, I have the best staff in the universe, who “oil the treadmill” and keep me going, keep me organised, run my office and expertly handle all the appointments and delays, the phone calls and the surprises.

60 coffs coast focus.

Tell me about Centre r for Women’s I believe we offe ve Reproductive Care. a comprehensi omen Our Centre has service for all w e been going for with reproductiv so eight and a half al d needs an r years, and I am so We are very proud combine partne y an in t privileged to have en to have a large em involv .” le the most competent ib Jeffrey Baker original ss way po and pleasant team on our main wall that to support me that I has inspired the scheme could imagine! My practice vibrantly harmonised by Nicolle manager, Debra, has extensive Foster from Natural Habitat in experience in the business and Coffs. There are original paintings from medical practice world and has developed Birrigan’s story (a miraculous story that’s and expanded our services admirably. true!), a Gumbaynggirr woven wall hanging to Barb is our legendary typist and a wistful seascape by my sister, Philia. Our office database manager and Madeleine, Tania is a cheerful place with soothing music and a and Carolyn are our charming front line calming aquarium! receptionists. Amanda has recently joined us as What do you love about the work that practice nurse, adding to her portfolio weekly you do and what motivates you to keep with our infertility lab and surgical counselling helping people? ability. It’s their cheerful voices you will hear I must have the best job in the world when calling the Centre! helping in the miracle of new life, nurturing its Three delightful colleagues Cookie, Sally and growth and finally helping with the transition of Mary, share more than 90 years of cumulative delivery. Obstetrics is my passion. midwifery skills in my antenatal clinics. I am Teaching is a central part of this practice, also lucky to have at my disposal two highly and students often are invited to sit in on qualified physiotherapists - my gorgeous wife, consultation. Kathy, together with Meagan Kelly’s speciality I believe we offer a comprehensive service in attending to patients requiring incontinence for all women with reproductive needs and studies and treatment. In addition, I liaise also combine partner involvement in any way directly with Coffs Harbour’s lovely Genea IVF possible. Our patients come with a history, a co-ordinator, Sarah Attwood, who is always current social, work and domestic environment available for collaboration with our many and their specific conditions, whether rare fertility clients. or common, have a particular context which As I say, women everywhere! makes their problem unique, requiring tailor Our décor is an important part of making made solutions. sure our clients feel comfortable and welcome. In your spare time what can we find you

“

doing? You’re famous for your bowties; how many do you actually have? When I am not working, I love reading, current affairs, exercising, travel, playing guitar, enjoying the entire Yes Minister series, writing poetry and I am actively involved with study at our local church, Lifehouse. I treasure time with my wife here, and our children who are in Sydney, Gold Coast and Brisbane. You are right, Sam, I collect bowties and have a total of 43. Thanks Dr Ward. Let’s talk to your staff - ladies, why is Dr Ward so great, and what do you love about your office life? We recently purchased Dr Ward a “fitbit” for his birthday. Not that he needs the fitness, but we thought what fun it would be to monitor his steps in a given day. Thankfully he moved the practice from Baringa hospital to the Specialist Medical Centre, because now he can sprint to the birthing suite in 58 seconds flat. It is never a truer statement to say that harmony and ethics come from the top. Dr Ward is professional, warm, compassionate, generous and has a quirky sense of humour. We all love working for Dr Ward, and we think it is portrayed to everyone who visits the Centre, whether they are a patient or visitor. He works extremely hard for his family and the women of Coffs Harbour and is truly a pleasure to work for. The best boss in the world! Thanks ladies.

coffs coast focus.

focus

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62 coffs coast focus.

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coffs coast focus. 63

FUN + FOOD + Etiquette Kids in the Kitchen - Looking for a program to entertain and educate the kids during school holidays? Impress for Success with it`s newly program FUN + FOOD + Etiquette could be the perfect fit. This 5-day fun program for boys and girls age 8-11 years aims to teach kids a range of different skills from food preparation to table manners - all in the picturesque setting of Sunny Hill Retreat at Bonville. Run by Gina Szary as part of the School of Etiquette and Image Training, the program is back by popular demand after two sessions this year filled to capacity. Gina`s upcoming workshop offers busy working parents the chance to give their kids quality education over each school holidays in April, July and September 2015.

64 coffs coast focus.

Children will learn in a fun and active atmosphere the importance of: • Basic food and personal hygiene, • Healthy food preparation • Eating a balanced diet • Dining etiquette appropriate to the age group We prepare everything here, we go into the vegetable garden and we discuss healthy food, healthy cooking and then head into the kitchen to prepare tasty and nutritious meals. Gina also teaches her young recruits the importance of dining etiquette - which is practised daily over lunch the kids have prepared and cooked themselves. “The first day they don’t know anything about dining etiquette, but by day three, no one starts before I sit down, the kids talk to each other, they watch each other and help each other - the children are just wonderful” Gina says.

focusmoney.

• A C C O U N T I N G •

Tips with barry hockey

ith Christmas well and truly over, what are your main tips in getting finances together? Interest rates are at a 50-year low, so I see many opportunities such as: Consider a rental property if you have your existing home loan under control. Accelerate debt reduction by increasing loan repayments on non-tax deductible debts. Consolidate higher interest loans such as credit cards to a lower interest rate such as a personal loan or home loan. Set a realistic savings goal, such as salary sacrifice into super or save for a rainy day.

days. While a major factor in choosing to use a SMSF is greater control of investments, also consider: An SMSF member becomes more engaged in their superannuation affairs by taking on the role of trustee; A greater choice of options is available for their investment flexibility than exists with an industry or retail superannuation fund; The use of intergenerational planning is available with the use of an SMSF; and

We can assist in x areas such as ta m ri te in n, preparatio sh flow financials and ca re su projections to en ity un rt the best oppo . ce an fin for getting fail to u yo if r: be Remem to an plan , then you pl fail.”

“

Low interest rates can hinder wealth creation. Consider investing in shares, with dividends presenting the opportunity to earn tax effective returns at higher than bank interest rates, with the prospect of capital gains to boot.

What is the most common problem that people come to you with, and what do you say to them? Falling behind in your tax affairs, which hinders things like obtaining finance or applying for Centrelink benefits. If you are off to the bank, particularly if you are selfemployed, be organised and have your taxes and financials up to date, before you go. We can assist in areas such as tax preparation, interim financials and cash flow projections to ensure the best opportunity for getting finance. Remember: if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail. What is all the hype around self managed super funds? What should be the motivating factor when looking into this? Self-managed super is becoming very popular. People are becoming more investor savvy and seem to be better educated financially these

While always keeping the sole purpose test in mind, opportunities exist for small business owners to structure their affairs more efficiently and provide a level of security.

Buying property within a self managed super fund with borrowings allowed to complete the purchase. We take an education of client approach so that they are guided and advised every step of the way. Knowledge is power. We are heading into tax time. What are your suggestions? Claim everything you are entitled to. Keep all receipts, diary records and work expenses. Replace work equipment, tools and computers prior to 30 June. If it needs replacing, why not do it before June 30 and claim it this year? Get organised and don’t forget the small stuff like donations and home office expenses. Seek professional advice. Tax can be confusing, so speak to a tax specialist if you have any concerns with deductions or capital gains tax. Self-employed business owners should look at interim results prior to June 30. Additional super contributions or vehicle replacement are good options for minimising tax. Don’t leave it to the last minute. coffs coast focus.

BIGGEST BUTT BEST. NSW State Forest’s visitor attraction, Old Bottlebutt, a grand and ancient Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) tree located in Burrawan State Forest, is officially the best new tourism destination in NSW. Old Bottlebutt won the Gold Award for New Tourism Development at the NSW Tourism Awards held in December 2014 at Darling Harbour, Sydney. Old Bottlebutt is an AusOld Bottlebutt is e tralian Tourism Award the main featur 0m finalist, with winners on a beautiful 60 k, announced mid-April loop walking trac ng di en d beginning an 2015. ic

“

Derrin’s Joinery and Stair is a local family

after the closure of his previous employer. The

owned and operated business servicing

love of working with wood started long ago

To visit Old Bottlebutt: From Wauchope travel south on the Bago Road 10km, turn left onto Internal Break Road and follow the signs. From Port Macquarie, follow the Pacific Highway south and take the Bago Road exit. It is open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week and is free.

Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas.

while hand carving boats with his brother and

Specialists in the manufacture and installation

grandfather at the tender age of six and after

of beautiful made to measure timber staircas-

following the passion through school, he

es, Derrin’s Joinery can also manufacture most

knew that joinery would be the most enjoyable

of your joinery needs with the experience and

career path possible.

quality only a small workshop can offer. Der-

Only two years after finishing his apprentice-

rin’s Joinery has a passion for customer service,

ship, he was promoted to supervisor

understands the importance of a one on one

of the Staircase and Flush Panel Door of a

Find out more: www.forestrycorporation.com.au www.facebook.com/forestplayground Twitter: @visitnswforests Instagram: #visitnswforests

relationship from start to finish and ensures the

Coffs Harbour Joinery and stayed in that posi-

customers’ needs are met the first time, every

tion until the business closed, due mostly to

time.

being too big to cope with the GFC.

Nic opened Derrin’s Joinery in late 2012 with

Nic Derrin has the experience and enthusiasm

the ambition to continue doing what he loved

to manufacture the quality joinery you require.

at the Burrawan area”

Old Bottlebutt is the main feature on a beautiful 600m loop walking track, beginning and ending at the Burrawan picnic area (shelter, tables, car park, toilets). The walk is an easy grade track, featuring remnant rainforest studded with Bangalay palms, small creek crossings and a viewing deck with seating – allowing you to appreciate this grand old tree. Old Bottlebutt is unique in its shape, its large flared “butt” having a massive girth of over 16m, the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere.

66 coffs coast focus.

Derrin’s Joinery and stair

picn

Online Safety or Cyber Tips for Parents with Caroline Bleechmore, Park Beach Plaza.

CYBER

MUM

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS WOULD YOU LET YOUR 14 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER TALK TO A STRANGER WEARING A LACE G-STRING? WHAT DOES YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PROFILE PICTURE SAY ABOUT YOU? OR MORE IMPORTANTLY, WHAT DOES YOUR TEENAGER’S PROFILE PICTURE SAY ABOUT THEM?

spend a considerable amount of time checking out the online activities of our local kids, particularly whilst I’ve been assisting Police with a recent investigation. Surprisingly, this is relatively easy to do - just follow or friend a few of your kids’ friends, then before you know it anyone who is anyone chimes into the conversation and you get to see who’s who, who is posting what and how they present themselves online in kids’ social media land! The one constant in monitoring online activity is how quickly you form an opinion (rightly or wrongly) about a person by their online profile picture, let alone what they post. The best example I stumbled across recently was a 14 year old girl, whose profile picture was a close up of her semi naked butt in a pair of lace G-string knickers! Call me conservative, but my reaction amongst other things was, “Come on parents? Seriously not good enough!” So I put my profile pic concept to the test and changed my Instagram “Profile Picture” to a photo of myself in a bikini when I was 12 years old! Admittedly, I was not quite the sexually developed teen in the example above (more like a lanky awkward baby giraffe). But needless to say, the exercise proved to me that what you put out there can and does have an immediate effect on who you attract online! Keeping in mind my account is private, to my surprise I was suddenly inundated with follow requests from complete strangers, friends of friends of friends of my daughters, plus men, boys and I’m sure men posing as boys, none of whom I know or intend to know, all thinking I was a young teen/tween. I

then liked a few random photos of strangers’ pages, strangers that ... well ... weren’t really strangers in the minds of our kids, as they were friends of my friends, friends friends who also followed this page. Sure enough, more follow requests flowed into my account like a virus or pyramid selling scheme gone mad! I have to say for a moment I thought I was “so cool and oh so popular.” I really began to understand the psychology that goes on in a teen’s quest to increase their social standing by the measurement of how many followers they have. So parents, what this exercise demonstrated is ... we need to get vigilant! Stop and take a look at how your kids are presenting themselves online! Is it appropriate? Are they sending the right message about themselves to the world of strangers? Most importantly, does your 14 year old daughter have her clothes on? Social media is an adult world that your minor is playing in, and this example clearly demonstrates that what you and more importantly what your kids put out there is potentially what or who they will attract. It is a world that should really be rated at least M. It is the big league full of uncensored material and uncensored predators. I can assure you that your child does not fully understand this, because to them the people they are friending and following are friends and friends of friends of friends so that makes them OK ... or does it? Cybermum Facebook: www.facebook.com/ cybermumaus Instagram: cybermumaus Blog: www.cybermumaus.com Email: cyber-mum@hotmail.com

Mj’s tax planning

CHECKLIST

Tax is a significant cost to your busine ss. Yet far too often we s ee busine ss owners avoiding tax planning until it’s too late to make meaningful decisions that could save money. To ensure that Coffs Harbour busine ss e s are ready for 30 June, here’s MJ’s Tax Planning Checklist. CLIP THIS OUT AND GET STARTED TODAY! Conduct a thorough stocktake. If your business carries stock, then a stocktake will be required before year-end. Make sure you identify any unsaleable or damaged stock that can be claimed as a tax deduction. Review all equipment and write off obsolete stock. Take a careful look at your asset register. Make sure any assets you are no longer using are fully written down. Clarify what new equipment is required. Small businesses can immediately write-off assets costing less than $1,000. For larger assets, the ATO lets you write down 15% in the first year, regardless of when acquired in that year. So if you are expecting to purchase equipment in the next six months, consider buying before 30 June. Review your debts and write off any bad debts. There’s no point paying tax on money you are unlikely to collect. You can claim a deduction for any debt outstanding for 12 months or more that you have made a reasonable effort to recover. Review expected income leading up to year-end. The tax office assesses your income when an invoice is issued (unless you are a sole trader operating on a cash basis). So it may be advantageous to hold off invoicing some clients until July. Carefully consider your cash flow position before deciding to hold invoicing. Plan to repay directors’ loans. Unless you have an agreement in place, directors’ or shareholders’ loans must be repaid by the lodgement date of the Income Tax Return for that year. Ignoring this could result in an unfranked dividend paid to the shareholder which means you effectively pay tax twice!

Prepare to pay superannuation by 30 June. Officially your staff super payments are not due until 28 July. But, if you pay before 30 June, those super payments will be deductible in this fiscal year. This is one expense it almost always makes sense to bring forward (although you should still consider cash flow before making the call). Review personal superannuation. Where possible, we recommend that small business owners top up their personal super contributions to the maximum concessional contribution caps, currently $25,000 if under 55 and $35,000 for 55 and older. This is a tax effective way to take money out of your business. Determine payment schedule for staff bonuses and/or dividends. If you are planning to pay bonuses or dividends, consider the timing of the payment. If you make bonus payments this fiscal year, you will be able to claim a tax deduction. With a dividend payment, a delay in payment will give you an extra year to pay the tax on it. Trust structures determine beneficiaries for year-end. If your business is trading as a trust, the trustee will need to determine which beneficiaries will receive distributions before year-end. Talk to your accountant and business advisers! The good news about accountants is their fees are deductible. The even better news is that they can navigate through the mire of tax legislation to help you effectively plan and optimise your tax obligations. We encourage you to talk to your accountant well before 30 June!

Phone 6652 8788 www.mjaccountants.com.au coffs coast focus.

focus_tourism

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

CLINTON HAYWARD A C C O U N T I N G

KRISTI, A WELL KNOWN FACE IN THE COFFS HARBOUR’S CAFÉ TRADE, SAYS A LOT OF HER SUCCESS IS THANKS TO HER ACCOUNTANT, CLINTON HAYWARD FROM CLINTON HAYWARD ACCOUNTING.

ell us what has been happening at Pansabella in the last 12 months … We had an extremely busy and productive last few months. We’ve seen our busiest ever Christmas season come and go. A fantastic team really take the customer service to a whole new level, and a kitchen team which includes our amazing European chef Sandra, our talented boys Liam and Tom create some truly fantastic food. Apart from great coffee, what else can you expect when you visit Pansabella? Our boutique coffee really is the cornerstone of our business, with Jen and the team doing an amazing job producing high quality and consistent cups for our loyal customers to enjoy here or to take away. But for anyone who hasn’t been into our “French inspired” store, we also have an amazing European based menu, where all of our cakes and scones are made fresh here on the premises. We have a full-time florist making the most amazing fresh local flower bouquets and a gourmet delicatessen filled with the very best Australian and European cheese and cured meats available. As a business owner, how instrumental has Clinton Hayward Accounting been in the development of your business? Clint has been absolutely fantastic. It is rare that you come across someone who truly “understands” your business and what it requires to continue to evolve and build in its scope and offering. His understanding of accounting combined with his enthusiasm for small business makes him an integral part of our successful team. A common frustration amongst business owners is the unavailability of their accountant. How would you describe your working relationship with Clint? Great. He is always available to meet with my husband and I to discuss not only our quarterly commitments, but also proactively organises meetings to go over potential opportunities he 68 coffs coast focus.

has identified within our industry. We all know that cash flow is a major consideration in any business. I understand that Clint has recently spoken to you about a programme called Cash Flow Story. What is this, and what impact will this have on the cash flow of your business? Cash Flow Story is designed to help me understand what is happening with the numbers in my business. It allows me to identify were my business’ financial strengths and weaknesses lie. Through graphs and diagrams, it shows how carefully chosen adjustments can have a positive impact on the cash flow of my business. It is user friendly and very easy to follow. It definitely helps me make better business decisions. They have also recently released a projections feature, which is very exciting and great for projected budgeting. What would you say to someone who was considering using Clinton Hayward Accounting for their accounting and taxation requirements? I’d say, go for it. Clint will be an absolute asset to your business and a key piece in helping you manage a more profitable and successful business. And finally, what exciting new things can we expect on the menu at Pansabella? With the cooler weather just around the corner (fingers crossed), we have a new winter menu in the pipeline featuring beautiful soups and amazing pasta dishes. And winter is definitely the season to eat cheese, so the delicatessen is getting stocked with some amazing gruyere and gouda melting cheeses, individual clay fondue pots and washed rinds from across Europe ... Perfect with a glass of red wine! CLINTON HAYWARD ACCOUNTING Phone. 6652 8000

UPDATE AS WE MOVE OUT OF THE SUMMER PERIOD AND INTO AUTUMN, TOURISM OPERATORS GET READY FOR WHAT WE HOPE WILL BE A BUSY EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY PERIOD.

ith the international boats. Where: Deep Sea Fishing Club, touch football Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour Jetty. tournament being held The Billabong Oz Grom Cup will run from at the end of Monday 13 to Saturday 18 April April and will showcase the best in and beginning of May, junior surfing. Over five we are in for another days, Coffs Coast will ER A N OTH busy period. We will T A TH T EN see the best of the EV have 100 teams A PPEN IN G IN H IS best from under 8s with over 3,000 E TOW N OV ER TH to the under 18s, participants N TH S IS N EX T FE W M O G with around 200 from 30 nations EA ST ER FI SH IN

“ TH E

H W IL competitors from all that will come CL A SS IC , W H IC D O O G M O FR N together on the over Australia. RU UGH FR IDAY TH RO DAY 6 Coffs Coast to Where: Coffs N TO EA ST ER M O take part in the six Coast beaches. A PR IL . ” day tournament. The Tourism Coffs Coast C.ex Coffs International will be holding a meeting Stadium will host the event. on 21st April to discuss the Another event that is future plans of the association. All happening in town over the next past and present members are invited few months is the Easter Fishing to attend this meeting, that will be held at Classic, which will run from Good Dolphin Marine Magic from 5pm. Invitations Friday through to Easter Monday 6 April. will be sent out via email, so please keep an This is an annual event open to all ages, amateurs and professionals. The competition takes place in the creeks, off the beach and out to sea for those who have their own

eye out for this. And remember: as we say at Tourism Coffs Coast, Tourism is everyone’s business.

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

He came, he saw, HE CONQUERED

Kerry Moss

Agricultural Tour of Ireland and UK.

A trip to Turkey is like flicking through the pages of a history book - each step a different era, with a different tale.

Turkey’s charm lies somewhere between its

Whether it’s the military history of the great Julius Caesar, who famously came, saw and conquered, or the shores of Gallipoli which commemorates 100 years this ANZAC Day, Turkey has an epic history.

prepare to be surprised on a visit to Turkey. The

The Turkish people are social and family-oriented, which is evident in Turkey’s delicious food. Whether it’s a meze plate, crisp vegetables from the family garden or seafood plucked fresh from the sea, sharing a meal in Turkey takes you straight to the heart of the culture. The modern cities of Istanbul and Ankara are an eclectic mix of East meets West and never disappoint. From the old cities through to the modern bars, the streets are abuzz with activity. Many consider Istanbul a crucial offpoint to the Silk Road, the historically important international trade route.

cruise through the Aegean Sea is both breathtaking

stunning landscapes and friendly locals but if you think you’ve seen diverse landscape before, then honeycombed hills and hand cut caves of the World Heritage listed region of Cappadocia look as though they’ve been dreamt up from the pages of fairy tale, whilst the view from your yacht as you and humbling. Whether it’s cruising the markets or the waterways, it’s hardly surprising Turkey has attracted so many people over the centuries. And for FOCUS readers, a last minute and unique opportunity is now available with Quadrant Australia to join their Best of Turkey Tour, departing 18 May. For more information, drop in to see the team in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour or visit their website: www.quadrantaustralia.com

Quadrant Australia have been tempting travellers with special interest tours for more than 30 years across 5 continents.

s a travel specialist, the experienced team can assist you with all of your travel needs, including flights, packages, cruises and coach touring. As well as being a travel agent, they are delighted to bring a unique product to the Coffs Coast region. Quadrant Australia share their knowledge and contacts to allow the traveller experiences that they can’t get on their own. It might be dinner at a local farmhouse in Ireland or preferred seating at the World’s Greatest Rodeo, The Calgary Stampede, but on average with over 20 special interest tours departing each year, Quadrant Australia are sure to have an option for you. Kerry Moss from Quadrant Australia tells us that there has been a rush of enquiry for the 2016 tours, so they are offering FOCUS Readers the first opportunity to join their tailored Agricultural Tour of Ireland and UK. Departing in May 2016, travellers enjoy a leisurely tour to the United Kingdom and Ireland, visiting farming enterprises and taking in the breathtaking scenery of the UK. Travellers tour for 28 days in beautiful Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England visiting major historic and cultural sites. Enjoy the fast ferry across to Scotland before exploring the sights of Edinburgh. The tour highlights include the

elegant cities of Bath and Cambridge, the spectacular Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Mohr and Stonehenge, before travellers conclude their journey in the cosmopolitan city of London. One of the greatest benefits of escorted travel is the ability to experience a destination without worrying about the travel details such as transfers, hotels, meals and much more. So if you’re looking for first-class touring with the personal touch, then Quadrant Australia’s tours have the right mix for you. Coach touring takes all the worry out travelling. It’s an opportunity to travel in comfort and style at an all-inclusive price including airfares from Australia, accommodation, transport, entrance fees and the majority of the meals. Travellers enjoy the freedom to make their own choices with the support of qualified and knowledgeable tour leaders. Quadrant Australia also operate special interest tours to Canada, USA, Europe, South America and Africa. They do have limited space available for their 2015 tours and their 2016 tours are filling fast, so if you’d like to find out more, visit their website www. quadrantaustralia.com or drop in to see the team in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour. coffs coast focus. 69

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with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Sally and Michael Simmon

Cindy Donjahn and Shawn Bergquist

Alyssa Beencke, Jess Swilks and Jess Doland

Katie Barden, Vasht Broadbent and Jacqui Boyns

Jenny Evans, Marian Blyth and Lizzie Willian

Beauty on the Promenade Team

Marissa Kaandorp and Jeff Adams

Cheryl Turner, Kay Ryan and Jill Bale

Katie Barden, Lisa Bohringer and Joanne Hickey

Social/scene.

o many celebrations, competitions and charity events this month, it was hard to choose which ones to cover! From sporting events to fundraiser saucy movies, certainly something to tickle everyone’s fancy! The Pink Silks Committee staged a charity event at Birch Carroll and Coyle cinemas in Coffs Harbour just recently. The ladies got to frock up and rock up to view the oh! so cheeky screening of the much talked about Fifty Shades of Grey. Delicious appetisers and blush pink champagne was served to the guests before trooping in to view the movie. I just about squeezed in with the FOCUS camera to get some happy snaps; it was literally jam packed. Roxy Contin and Kara Van Park were the fabulously dolled up Drag Queens (one of whom had the longest false eyelashes I have seen in my life!) who were there to buzz up the action and join in the fun! What a sensational way to head towards the Pink Silks 10th anniversary in 2016. This event raised a hefty $5,500 dollars towards the cause, so watch this space for their next big event! Don’t forget to pencil in May 21st on your social calendar. It’s that time, when tickets will soon be on sale for Kirsten Howton’s Biggest Morning Tea Fashion Parade event. This function will be held at the Bonville Golf Resort. Apart from the delicious unlimited morning tea, you can look forward to Fabulous Fashion (casual and formal), millinery and gorgeous jewellery

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There is no excuse to be bored, that’s for sure, whilst living here on the sensational Coffs Coast ...

award went to the effervescent and talented Christina from House of Le Dãin Designs, Sawtell. Parry’s Monneron, who is the WOW coordinator and a Jewellers, who celebrate 40 years in the business in talented dance instructor. There are definitely so many Coffs Harbour, will also showcase their sensational amazing, inspirational and empowering women on the jewellery collections on the day. The Biggest Morning Coffs Coast! Tea will feature a sensational guest speaker, Looking forward to the next entertainment, lucky door prizes and breakfast meeting on the 9th plenty of giveaways; definitely not April at the Coffs Harbour an event to be missed. Watch to et rg fo ’t Golf Club, where there will this space! on D pencil in May be guest speaker Karen I arrived at the Novotel al ci so ur yo on st 21 Schmidt, who is returning Pacific Bay Resort with at calendar. It’s th by popular demand. Even our lovely Mayoress ts time, when ticke though some of us have Denise Knight, to join in le sa will soon be on s teenagers or grown up the celebrations of the n’ to ow for Kirsten H a Te ng children, there is a special inaugural International ni or Biggest M t. en ev de ra Pa childminding service for Women’s Day Breakfast. n Fashio ill be w n tio nc fu those who don’t want to Guests were there to join is Th nville G olf Bo e th at ld he miss out on the action. in the excitement of the Resort .” Here is a massive event for announcement of the Coffs the men and women. Another big Harbour Woman of the year date to look forward to in May is the Award. So many worthy entrants; I 101st Coffs Harbour Agricultural Show. certainly wouldn’t have wanted to be on The event is ready to showcase the region’s that judging panel. There is always an element of diverse agricultural sectors and offer a full and fun and entertainment at these events, and the exciting weekend for the entire family. ever popular Pru Whoo definitely added to the Here is to wishing you all a very happy Easter from special morning. myself and all the FOCUS family. I hope the Easter After enjoying a delicious breakfast and listening bunny stops off with lots of chocolate! to the uplifting guest speaker Vice Chancellor Diedre Carole, Anderson of Macquarie University, the morning Le Dãin Designs. geared up to the announcement of the winner. The

“

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with Carole Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Kay Skinner, Margaret Brauer, Margaret Saunders

Lynda Marshall, Cherie Parik, Danielle Johnson and Felicity Leggett

Pink Silksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Fifty Shades of Grey Event

Kara Van Park, Roxy Contin, Alan Johnson and Simon Chladil

Lisa Smith and Marsha Dodson

Deb Gooley and Tanya Johnson

Sarvi Thompson and Angela Leet

Debi and Gerard Kissick

Coffs Harbour Woman of the Year Event

Amelia King, Yordanos Tesfamichael and Ruby Tavener-Graham

Coffs Coast Health Club

Maddy and Michelle Clarke, Jacqui Barnett and Mel Crossland

Donna Alderman and Petah Russell

Bonnie Capell and Jeynelle Forrest

Fran Stephenson, Tanya Watts and Ganelle Turner

Coffs Harbour Woman of the Year Event

Sam Howland, Anne Blair and Rachel Maclaren

The Go Girls

coffs coast focus.

Hitech Industrial Estate Feature

HITECH industrial estate

Joanne Wilson, Greg Wilson, Murray Herbert, Gary Mobbs, Jess Stow, Nathan Cook-Smith, Paul Brahe, Eli Wilson & “Towie Pete” Sexton.

Containers from $28 per week Need a storage solution? A shipping container is just what you need! For a temporary or permanent, short term or long term storage solution. Perhaps you need somewhere to lock up the motorbikes, store the hay, archive the office, or maybe you need somewhere to store the furniture while you renovate? Coffs Hire have over 200 containers in stock, ready to go. All hire containers are brand new and come in the Colorbond range of colours. We have four trucks running daily, to keep turnaround times fast, with the addition of a Super Tilt and Side Loader, delivering 40 ft Containers is our specialty. Coffs Hire carries a large range of Site Buildings, Forklifts, Car Trailers and Coolroom Trailers. VMS message boards, portable single unit showers with hot water systems and over 200 portaloos in our modern fleet. We even have trailer mounted units for weddings/parties, to keep those muddy feet out of your house! Coffs Hire specialise in events and have custom vacuum/water trucks for easy servicing of toilets across the Coffs Coast. Last year Coffs Hire introduced tele handlers 4WD All Terrain 3 tonne (no licence required) and also a range of boom lifts and access equipment. Call Coffs Hire now for same day hire/delivery. Like us on Facebook for weekly updates and specials.

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Greg wilson smash repairs

All Metal Fabrications

Greg Wilson Smash Repairs offers professional panel beating, smash repairs and towing services for all insurance companies, as well as businesses and private customers. They specialise in hail repairs and provide free quotes and a free loan vehicle service while your car is being repaired. Greg and Joanne Wilson started their business in Hi Tech Drive 15 years ago and moved into their new premises at 18 Hi Tech Drive five years ago. Increased growth over recent years has seen their operations and workshop expand, as well as staff numbers increase to nine. This includes two fully qualified spray painters, two fully qualified panel beaters, two apprentices, a tow truck driver and administration staff - that’s well over 100 years of experience. The panel shop at Greg Wilson Smash Repairs uses state of art equipment from Car-O-Liner, which is a fast diagnostic computerised measuring system for accurate repairs to all makes and models of motor vehicles. The paint shop uses infra-red drying equipment to speed up turnover of repairs. Investing in going green with a thinners recycling machine, recycling of workshop waste materials and solar power panels creating electricity; they are currently in talks with paint companies to replace solvent based paints with water based products which are more beneficial to the environment. The friendly staff understand the importance of getting your vehicle back on the road as painlessly and as quickly as possible.

All Metal Fabrications is a locally owned and operated business. Our custom comes from the private sector, as well as from nationally renowned companies. At All Metal Fabrications we listen to our customers’ requirements and endeavour to provide a cost effective outcome, manufactured to the highest standard. We offer a range of services, including: Welding of ferrous and non ferrous materials. All forms of fabrication, from balustrades to structural. Sheetmetal work, including the folding of stainless, mild steel, Colorbond and aluminium. With our punch and shear, cold saw and guillotines, we can cut to size most profiles of materials, including: sheetmetal, round bar, square bar, flat bar, angle iron, weld mesh, square tube, rectangular tube, and pipe etc. We welcome production projects, as well as the typical one off job. All Metal Fabrications manufactures custom trailers, as well as the well-known Real Ezy folding trailer for boats and kayaks. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our valued clients and trust that we can continue to provide a reliable and quality service to them in the future. Call us on 6653 2000 or email: info@allmetalfarications.com.au Or call in to 3/15 Hi-Tech Drive, Toormina.

Hitech Industrial Estate Feature

HITECH industrial estate

Coffs Document Storage

Coffs harbour blinds & Awnings For over 50 years we have prided ourselves on being locally owned, operated and staffed. In that time, Coffs Harbour Blinds and Awnings has established itself as one of the area’s most respected and reliable manufacturers, with a reputation for quality and excellence second to none. The business was established in 1964 by Bill & Joyce Jeff with a staff of three, supplying venetian blinds, window awnings and screen doors. Now, over 50 years later, run by Bill and Joyce’s son Norm, Coffs Harbour Blinds & Awnings has grown to a staff in excess of 35, and we manufacture and distribute a wide range of quality window coverings and home improvement products. The majority of our products are manufactured

from our Toormina factory in Hi-Tech Drive, which is also the site of our Luxaflex Window Fashions Gallery Showroom and offers the most exiting display of Windows Fashions products on the North Coast. We are one of only a very few licensed Luxaflex fabricators within Australia, which means that the majority of your blinds are made right here on the Coffs Coast. We are also a licensed Crimsafe manufacturer and a distributor of many trusted brands of home improvement products. We offer an obligation free in home consultation with one of our trained consultants, or would be pleased to have you visit one of our showrooms for some expert advice.

Need more office space, but don’t want to pay more rent ? Is the filing and boxes of business paperwork taking up space in your office that could be put to better use? Could an additional staff person, producing more income, use the area? Coffs Document Storage provides a complete document storage management solution. It is just a three step process: • Coffs Document Storage provides you with the boxes, at a discounted rate; you fill them and keep a list of the contents and box numbers. • Coffs Document Storage picks them up and stores them in a clean, dry, secure, fire resistant storage area on heavy duty racking and provides you with an inventory list. • You contact us, by 4:30pm, if you would like to retrieve a box; Coffs Document Storage deliver it to you the following business day morning, FREE OF CHARGE!

Now you can make better use of all that spare room! Coffs Document Storage has been providing this complete service to local accountants, solicitors, government departments, health care professionals, real estate agencies and local private businesses for over 13 years. Costs are very reasonable, starting at 33 cents per box per week and become even cheaper if you are storing over 50 boxes. Dennis and Reuben are a regular sight around the Coffs City CBD each morning, doing the daily deliveries in our van, picking up and dropping off to local businesses. Coffs Document Storage is a division of Coffs Harbour Hi-Tech Self Storage Pty Ltd, a well known, respected business that has been providing storage to the Coffs Harbour area since 1989. For more information, contact Coffs Document Storage on (02) 6658 3217. 10 - 16 Craft Close, Toormina.

coffs coast focus.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

HITECH industrial estate

APRIL 2015

with Terri

O’brien Frames & Trusses Tell us about your business ... O’Brien Built Frames and Trusses has been a locally owned and family operated frame and truss manufacturer since April 1994. We are committed to manufacturing exclusively with 100% T2 treated timber, which holds a certified 25 year guarantee from termites, giving builders and owner builders peace of mind. We are highly focused on delivering a quality product to or customers, and we’re always there for after sales service and advice. What makes your business stand out above competitors? Commitment, along with over 100 years’ combined experience in frame and truss manufacturing. State of the art software and equipment and friendly, knowledgeable customer service is what greatly sets O’Brien built apart from our competitors. O’Brien Built understands the importance of building relationships with our builders and understanding their needs. O’Brien Built have a very committed team who all work together to make us what we are. What plans do you have for 2015? O’Brien Built are committed to improving their performance, so plans for 2015 are to update some of our machinery to improve productivity and performance. Staff training is a high priority within the office and production team.

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Relationships are likely to be on the main agenda this month. Be open with your communication to avoid any misunderstanding and know which insecurities belong to you and which ones don’t. Kyanite helps build inner bridges, so we can literally get over things.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20

You are about to embark on a journey. For some this will be literal, for others, an inward journey of self-discovery. During this time, you will make new friends and acquaintances who will mirror your lessons in life perfectly. To gain the most out of this, remove all judgement and look for the outcome. Seraphinite allows us to heal passed hurts from a subconscious plane.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20

Lighten up your energy by taking life less seriously. You are capable of exuding much joy and happiness, yet at present you are often mopey. Re-evaluate the person you are showing the world and give yourself the gift of positive change. Azurite is wonderful for insight.

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. 74 coffs coast focus.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Time for change is at hand, perhaps a change in career or a new position at work. You have exhausted the cycle you have been in and your itchy feet are a result of still sitting idle and perhaps waiting for change to come to you. Make a choice and take action. Garnet is wonderful for prosperity in thought as well as outcome.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Soon you will have the opportunity to feel ownership of your life, rather than surviving your circumstance. Set some immediate goals and keep your mind positively busy. Be aware of your fears so you can take control of them and change them. Speak openly and honestly to free yourself from binding situations and enjoy your personal power. Lapis lazuli connects us to our purpose and destiny.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23

July brings endings of frustrating repetitive influences, as well as discovery of new talents, and new friends to satisfy your social needs. You can anticipate a busy agenda with an uplifting feeling. Carnelian helps us to embrace new experiences joyfully.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23

Patience is required just for a few weeks, as you are fast approaching change to your circumstances. Your biggest vulnerability is your fear. This can potentially change your outcome, so be aware of this. Selenite connects us to our higher self and our divine purpose.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 Your new sense of personal power has recently shifted and you are vulnerable to being domineered if you don’t stand your ground. You are such a wonderful, gentle example of love personified; this is your strength. Good luck will come through work soon. Carnelian can evoke creative energy quicker than many other crystals.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22

Fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them, nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly, they will be transformed into new strengths. Calcite Brings spontaneity into the picture.

S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21

You may be feeling a little “up-rooted” lately, but don’t forget how badly you wished for change to come into the picture. The reason you may be feeling this way is because your outcome is not quite here yet. Try a little new goal setting, as this will assist in a happier outlook. Ruby or Garnet will help you feel grounded, taking away some of the dilemma.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Some direction is needed now so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside you have your own answers; trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability, as this is never wrong. Labradorite brings magical energy into the picture for manifestation.

D E C A D E S

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T R A D E

30 years in business.

SLATER AND GORDON LAWYERS. What does 30 years as a family lawyer in Coffs Harbour teach you about this community? Heather McKinnon is the family law Practice Group Leader at Slater and Gordon’s Coffs Harbour office. Heather started practicing law in Coffs Harbour in 1984, when she was 24 years old. At that time, Heather was one of only a few female lawyers working in the area, and she soon discovered that many women wanted to be represented by a female lawyer. By the late 1980s, Heather was increasingly working on family law matters and made the decision to focus on the pursuit of excellence in that area of law. By 1990, Heather had become one of the first lawyers in New South Wales to be accredited as a specialist in family law. She later went on to become a member of the NSW Law Society Specialist Accreditation Committee. When, in 2008, the opportunity arose to join Slater and Gordon, Heather found it irresistible. Not only could she continue to pursue her specialist field, but she could now offer the North Coast community the resources of an international law firm. Slater and Gordon have radically overhauled the way Australian families are accessing justice. The introduc-

tion of fixed fees* in family law has meant that clients know what their legal fees will be from the outset. This is in stark contrast to the traditional model, which does not provide any certainty to clients about what their family law matter will cost. Over more than 30 years in Coffs Harbour, Heather has built a career, raised a family and become a passionate advocate for the local community. Heather’s involvement has led Slater and Gordon to partner with the Coast Out Festival, Opera by the Sea, the Young Actors’ Studio and the various educational scholarships that are offered each year in the region. Reflecting on her time in the area gives Heather much cause for celebration. When she arrived in Coffs Harbour in the early 1980s, the old court had already served its best years. Today Coffs Harbour’s new justice precinct is operational, making the town a centre for the administration of justice in northern New South Wales. The Federal Circuit Court regularly sits in Coffs Harbour and litigants are provided with a world class environment to have their matter determined by judicial officers who are committed to their wellbeing. *Conditions apply. Excludes disbursements.

FAMILY LAW

“ Separation is a rollercoaster. But it’s comforting to know the legal side can run smoothly.” Maggie had a lot on her mind with the separation. But after talking through the legal process with her lawyer from start to finish, she was confident that was one less thing she had to worry about. If you’ve decided to separate, we can guide you every step of the way, provide fixed fees* for greater certainty and work to resolve the issues quickly so you can move on. You may also be eligible to pay at the end*.

We have a specialist family lawyer near you.

Get in touch 39 Gordon Street COFFS HARBOUR 6651 8440 slatergordon.com.au/family-law

Heather McKinnon - Practice Group Leader, Coffs Harbour Heather has been working in Family Law for over 30 years, building a formidable reputation as one of the leading Family Law authorities in Australia. She is an expert in property settlements, children’s matters and same-sex relationship matters. *Conditions apply. Excludes disbursements, pay fees on settlement.

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D E C A D E S

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45 years in business.

bcu FINANCIAL INSTITUTION It is hard to believe it’s 45 years since locally “grown” financial institution, bcu, was formed by a passionate group of banana growers from the Nambucca Valley, who worked tirelessly to create an alternative to the banks. Over the years bcu has grown, but hasn’t lost sight of its original mandate: to deliver fair go banking to individuals, households, businesses, retirees, students, children and community groups across our region, and now, to people living throughout Australia - with their simple, online product application process. If you haven’t done your bit to support a local business, and continue to bank with a major bank or financial institution from elsewhere, ask yourself why? bcu offers competitively-priced products - from credit cards, home and personal

loans, savings and transaction products to financial solutions for business. They’re passionate about the future of our region, and provide funding every year to students via scholarships and to businesses taking on apprentices and trainees through the Bill Ussher program. bcu also encourages children to save and become money wise, with their great Scoot’s super savers product and program. bcu is an iconic brand, locally “produced” on the Coffs Coast and they want to be around for the next 45 years, so get on board to ensure they continue to employ locals, support local suppliers and reinvest back in to the community we all love. Visit your local store today or visit bcu.com.au to apply for one of their great products online.

Banking products issued by Bananacoast Community Credit Union Ltd ABN 50 087 649 750 AFSL 241077 Australian Credit Licence Number 241077. Loans available to approved applicants only. Normal lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. 1 All interest rates are annual percentage rates (APR) and variable rates are subject to change. 2 This comparison rate applies only to the example or examples given. Different amounts and terms will result in different Comparison Rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees, and cost savings such as fee waivers, are not included in the Comparison Rate but may influence the cost of the loan. These rates are effective as at 01 March 2015 and are subject to change.

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D E C A D E S

36 years in business.

REG LATTER.

Reg Latter Electrical

2015 marks 36 years Reg Latter Electrical has been servicing the Coffs Coast! Back in 1979, Reg commenced operating his business from his property at Bonville. Shortly after he employed an apprentice named Bruce and then gained the services of his brother in law, Brian. Back in the “olden days”, Reg and Brian received their jobs through a CB pager system - which only worked from Bonville to Sawtell, so they would have to “phone home” to receive jobs from Reg's wife, Alison. Reg was excited when mobile phones became available, purchasing two before they were turned on in the area; Reg remembers them being the size of a small suitcase and the phone signal used repeater towers, so sometimes you could be having more than one conversation going at a time! Since the beginning, Reg Latter Electrical has continued to grow; this is attributed to Reg’s dedication to honesty and hard work, combined with an unrelenting pursuit of service and product excellence and by employing people with the same work ethics and integrity. Now in 2015, the business continues to evolve with technology, providing touch screen technology to our field staff, which seems a world away from the old CB pager.

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31 years in business.

EAST COAST CABINETS.

East Coast Cabinets

Three “Decades in the Trade” - wow! Congratulations to everyone who has made their mark with their business. Last year I proudly clocked up three decades as an owner of East Coast Cabinets and really have to thank all those who have been part of the journey - our employees, the support contingent of accountants, bookkeepers, lawyers, suppliers etc, our family and friends, and most importantly the customers, without whom we would not be here. Having a small business in a local community entails riding the highs and lows of that community and being part of it. We all need to support each other by employing and training locals and using other local businesses where possible, contributing to the success of the community as a result. During the last thirty years we have seen many young apprentices qualify and then mostly stay within the local area. There has also been the progress of many tradesmen as they get married, have children and those children grow up also to be part of our area. It is a credit to all facets of our business that we have several employees who have each been with us for twenty and thirty years.

22 years in business.

COAT OF ARMS TATTOO STUDIO Coat of Arms Tattoo studio, situated in the heart of Coffs Harbour, is the longest running tattoo and body piercing studio on the North Coast. The sole trader and business owner, Arm, has owned the shop for 22 years, allowing people of the area to have access to a safe and professional environment whilst receiving quality and impressive pieces of art. Be assured at Coat of Arms we use the best quality inks without the harmful impurities, hospital grade sterilisation and best quality surgical steel jewellery - none of those cheap and nasty products on the market, allowing all procedures to heal without any problems. The team at Coat of Arms consists of six tattooists, two piercers and friendly counter staff. All your needs and desires can be created and made a reality by any of our amazing artists, from small intricate tattoos to large custom and unique pieces, ear piercings to implants and scarification. Anything you want, we can do it, so come and meet our team if you don’t know us already: Arm, Meg, Craig, Navs, Krys, Clancy, Queenie, Shea and Bobbie. For any further assistance, call 6651 1893 or come and visit us at 6/7 Monterey Arcade.

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K&J TRUCKS •KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANN•

K & J TRUCKS SELL NEW AND USED TRUCKS AND TRAILERS, FROM 2 TONNE TRUCKS THROUGH TO 730 HORSEPOWER PRIME MOVERS. WE ALSO CARRY OUT ALL ASPECTS OF AFTER SALES SERVICE, FROM MINOR SERVICES TO MAJOR REBUILDS.

O U R SE RV IC E D EPA RT M EN T IS M A N N ED BY A STA FF O F 12 ED FU LLY Q UA LI FI D 8 N A S N TE CH N IC IA ” S. CE TI A PP R EN

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he various departments include service, spare parts, sales and administration. 2015 finds the team celebrating their 30th year in the business! What do K&J Trucks specialise in? What are the various arms of your business, and how many staff do you employ? We specialise in the sale of new Mitsubishi-Fuso and Scania trucks, bus and marine engines and have just taken on the supply of Panus Trailers. We also sell a range of used trucks and trailers. K&J employ

approximately 30 local staff. Our service department is manned by a staff of 12 fully qualified technicians and eight apprentices of varying levels and is equipped to carry out most mechanical repairs, from minor services to major overhauls on most brands of trucks and trailers. We have two dedicated service pits, brake and suspension testing equipment and a 5 tonne overhead crane. This allows us to carry out registration inspections, including blue and pink slips. K & J’s service department can also carry out body swaps and fit accessories.

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K&J TRUCKS • CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS

K&J TRUCKS •KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANN•

K&J’s Parts Department, with a staff of three fully qualified parts interpreters, carry an extensive range of Fuso and Scania parts to keep the trucks we sell on the road. We also carry a range of trailer parts and also carry a range of filters to service trucks, earthmoving equipment and four wheel drive vehicles, a range of after-market Japanese truck parts including Donaldson Filtration, Hella, Narva, Exxel Parts, BPW, Krueger, Redflag Toolboxes, SX Trailers and Chromend Supply Co. Exhaust Parts to give our customers a one stop shop.

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The sales department team consists of three very experienced and knowledgeable men. Kevin Schuhmann, Butch Quin and Nathan Schuhmann have a combined experience of over 60 years in the industry. All three have the training and experience to advise on our full range of new and used trucks and trailers. The administration department is made up of a team of five dedicated ladies who work together performing their daily tasks to keep the business flowing. When and why did your family decide to

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TH E SA LE S

move here? Kevin,who was almost D EPA RT M EN T Kevin and Joanne (K 30 at the time, had just S TE A M CO N SI ST Y & J) decided to move completed 10 years’ ER V O F TH R EE D N A D their young family to service with Scania CE N EX PE R IE E BL EA G D Coffs Harbour from Trucks, starting there as LE K N OW Sydney in 1985. “We a forth year apprentice ...” M EN were looking to get our and working his way up to two girls - aged four and NSW Service Manager. Part five years of age at the time of Kevin’s role as NSW Service out of the city and into a coastal/ Manager included assisting Scania country area and saw the potential for a Parts and Service Dealers throughout truck repair business in Coffs Harbour.” the state. He had made several trips to Coffs

K&J TRUCKS • CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS

K&J TRUCKS •KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANN•

Habour, and through this realised the business potential that existed in this growth area. Joanne, by then aged 28, had a career in the banking industry before the two decided to start their family. After having the two girls, Joanne continued to work part-time to supplement the family income. “The decision to make the move came just at the right time, as the girls were just about to start school. So we sold everything, purchased a second hand panel van - which became our first Service Unit, borrowed a customer’s Scania Prime Mover and Trailer which had been in Scania Sydney’s workshop, loaded the car, panel van and recently purchased tools and parts and moved to Coffs, where we

lived in a caravan in a rented industrial shed in Lawson Crescent. “Living in the industrial shed did have its advantages; I could roll out of bed, get straight into work, have dinner and work half the night before rolling back into bed. In the early days, Joanne would get the kids to bed before going back into the parts department and continue setting up the stock.” Initially the staff consisted of Kevin on the workshop floor, a first year apprentice and Joanne, who was responsible for the administration plus running the parts department. After almost 12 months living and working in these modest conditions, Kevin and Joanne moved their young family a few streets away into a newly built house in the Coffs Harbour Jetty area.

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K&J TRUCKS • CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS

IT WA S ST IL L A V ERY Q U IE T N. COA STA L TOW R S CA E TH W E LE FT IT H U N LO CK ED W S D OW N W TH E W IN D O T EN W E W H EN W EE T. ” R ST E TH D OW N

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K&J TRUCKS •KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANN•

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After a huge 30 years in business, take us back to the beginning. What type of career progression have you had? How did you get to where you are today? In 1985, K&J Mechanical Repairs as it was then called was established as a two bay small mechanical repair workshop and Scania Parts and Service dealership in Lawson Crescent. Back then, things were very laid back in Coffs. It was still a very quiet coastal town. We left the cars unlocked with the windows down when we went down the street. The same applied to a lot of businesses in that they too were laid back, and the customers were just not used to service. “I remember one of our early repair jobs very clearly - a local fleet Scania operator had a clutch fail at about 5pm; they dropped the truck off at our workshop and the next morning around 9.30am rang me to ask if they should send their mechanic around to give me a hand to pull the transmission out to replace the clutch.

K&J TRUCKS • CELEBRATING 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS

I IN FO RM ED H IM LD TH AT H E SH O U D N A R U O H WA IT A N ER IN SE N D TH E D RI V TRU CK , E TO PI CK U P TH A S W IR A S TH E RE PA ET E” A LM O ST CO M PL

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I informed him that he should wait an hour and send the driver in to pick up the truck, as the repair was almost complete. This was the basis of what our business has been built on, and we strive to maintain that service level.” Joanne and I were fortunate enough to both have been well trained by our previous employers, working for many years in a busy, fast paced city. Jo in banking, which made an easy transition into running the business finances. I started on the workshop floor and then progressed into management, which gave me both skill sets required for the day to day running of the business.

In 1989 K&J built a new workshop and office located on the south side of Coffs Harbour where you will still find us today. Being located alongside the Pacific Highway provided greater exposure and easier access for all heavy vehicles. In 1991, K&J Trucks took on board sales of MitsubishiFuso Trucks. We continued our relationship with Scania and Mitsubishi-Fuso, becoming a full range dealership providing genuine sales, service and parts for both products as well as a full range of aftermarket, non-genuine parts for all other makes and models of vehicles.

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K&J TRUCKS •KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANN•

W E H AV E BE EN LU CKY AV E EN O U G H TO H U R O F O EE A LL TH R K IN R O W EN R CH IL D ” TH E BU SI N ES S,

“ In 2005, K&J’s workshop extensions doubled the size of the workshop capacity and incorporated the five tonne overhead crane and brake and suspension testing unit with B-Double drive through access. 2009-2010 saw the upgrade and re-construction of the office premises, highlighting our commitment to customer sales and service and providing easy access and a more efficient establishment

for our customer requirements. We have been lucky enough to have all three of our children work in the business, with younger daughter Melinda beginning in 2001 after returning from university, working within the

administration department for a few years before relocating to Newcastle. Our eldest daughter, Lisa, has been employed here for eight years, currently working part-time in administration, and son Nathan now selling trucks and helping with the day to day running after

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NC_CCF_156x125_MARCH

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completing his apprenticeship in the K&J workshop back in 2008. Our Service Manager, Scott Paterson from country NSW, began his apprenticeship in 1998. He worked on the floor as a diesel mechanic until being promoted to Service Manager in 2007. He is also part of our family, as he is our eldest daughter’s partner and father of our eldest grandson. The staff are certainly our most

IN 1996 valuable asset. Over the years W ER E H IT BY we have had eight key people OD; O U R FI R ST FL O work for us, clocking up over WE 09 20 H RC IN M A 10 years of service. Our highly A W ER E FL O O D ED dedicated Office Manager, ” E. SE CO N D TI M Marilyn Smith, has been with us over 25 years, and we also have a couple of employees with over 15 years and also 10 years service. I think the key is to treat people the way you want to be treated, invest in training and keep the young staff coming through, as they each bring a new set of skills to the workplace. Can you recall a few milestones for our readers? A few firsts: in 1986 we sold our first Scania, 1994 we sold our first trailer, a freighter, in 1997 we sold the first 4 Series Scania in Australia to Dorrigo Milk, and in 2013 we sold our first Scania Prime Mover into an “A” Double application. And a couple of disasters: in 1996 we were hit by our first flood; in March 2009 we were flooded a second time. “The year 2004 was a particularly difficult year, with the passing of our original service manager, Harry Rathbone. He was employed as a diesel mechanic and became our first service manager, working for the company for a total of 16 years. We were all working hard building up the business and the loss of a friend and key employee was very difficult for us all.”

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K&J TRUCKS •KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANN•

TO DAY, TO A D EG R EE , TH AT D AS WE H A S R EV ER SE ER S M O H AV E CU ST E TH BA SE D IN WHO CA PI TA L CI TI ES E PR EF ER TO H AV S TH EI R V EH IC LE S FF CO IN SE RV IC ED .” R U H A R BO

“ In your 30 years, what do you recall as being some of the biggest enhancements the industry has faced, and how have K&J adapted to these changes? Good and bad... Over the 30 years in Coffs Harbour - over 40 years in the industry - there have been a lot of changes. There are a few that come to mind. Back in the ‘80s and ‘90s people in the transport industry were sending their vehicles to the city for service. Today, to a degree, that has reversed, as we have customers based in the capital cities who prefer to have their

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vehicles serviced in Coffs Harbour. The main reason is that they can get that personalised service from our business and being located halfway between Sydney and Brisbane it works as a scheduled rest stop for the driver. To me, the most important part of this change is our people. We have staff who know what they are doing and most importantly, care about our customers. In addition to this, changes have

occurred to the monitoring of working hours not only driving trucks, but also repairing them, and roadworthiness of all vehicles, especially heavy vehicles. “Back in the early days, some of the things I saw were accidents waiting to happen. These days, this does not

happen, with regular inspections plus road side inspections and also the licensing of repairers and trades people.” The introduction of B Doubles on the Pacific Highway was a major change not only to equipment manufacturers, repairers and operators, but also to the general public. I know that there

K&J TRUCKS â&#x20AC;˘KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANNâ&#x20AC;˘

will be a lot of readers out there who do not like B Doubles on our roads, but they may not appreciate the economics of this introduction. Without going into too much depth, without B Doubles there would be about a 50% increase in the number of Prime Movers on the road. The biggest change though, has been technology. We now have trucks with higher horsepower using less fuel and with lower noise levels, resulting in a win for the environment. Computerisation of engine management, transmission operation, braking systems - ABS, EBS, Stability Control - and suspension control. K&J Trucks have had to adapt to the changes, which includes consistent upgrading to buildings, tooling and training to keep pace with the industry. Technicians now need the ability to carry out the nuts and bolts of repairs, plus have the understanding and training on computer diagnostics.

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K&J TRUCKS •KEVIN & JOANNE SCHUHMANN•

The media portrays a pretty scary picture of the pressures that logistic companies face in terms of meeting tight deadlines… Do K&J Trucks pride themselves on offering fast, efficient customer service? Since first arriving in Coffs Harbour, K&J Trucks has been dedicated to providing the best customer service possible. This not only includes offering fast efficient service by

trained technicians, but now includes a tea room and bathroom facilities (including shower) for customers to freshen up or just take a break, and they can use the free Wi-Fi while they wait. We also offer a 24 hour call out service for our

W E A LS O O FF ER LL A 24 H O U R CA R FO O U T SE RV IC E S, O U R CU ST O M ER LL A E W BE CAU SE S DO K N OW TRU CK K EA N OT JU ST BR E TH G IN D OW N D U R DAY.”

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customers, because we all know trucks do not just break down during the day. You’ve built an iconic Coffs Harbour local business and are known for your support of other local business. How

important is it to you to “keep it local”, and what type of community events do you get behind? K&J Trucks is a local business, employing locals and supplying other local business; we also try to support as many community events as possible to give back to the community which supports us. It is very important to keep as much business in town as possible.

Fuso is giving you more, thanks to: • Over 40 years in Australia • A range of quality products supported by a national dealer network

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cof G 30YRS CELEBRATIN

• Best service intervals on any Japanese truck • Rosa is the best selling bus in it’s class for 10 years running* • Roadside Assistance Support Hotline (for new and existing customers) • With Fuso Financial Fast Track Finance we make buying your new truck or bus easy^

12 MONTHS FREE COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE# CELEBRATING 30YRS

K&J TRUCKS COFFS HARBOUR 02 6652 7218 1-3 Isles Drive, North Boambee Valley NSW 2450

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*Rosa is Australia’s top-selling bus in its class for the last ten years based on Vfacts sales volumes 2004-2014. Fast Track finance is available to approved customers only. Approval is subject to 60 month maximum term, 30% maximum balloon payment and other lending criteria. Available on new Fuso products only. $200,000 Fast Track approval limit is including, and not in addition to any pre-existing financial exposure. Fuso Financial is a registered business name of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Australia Pty Ltd ABN 73 074 134 517 AFSL 247271. Fuso is distributed by Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd ACN 004 411 410. Bluetooth ® is a registered trade mark of Bluetooth SIG. #This offer is available from participating Fuso dealers on new orders for new trucks and buses placed between 1 January and 31 March 2015. Excludes national fleets, government and rental buyers. Insurance arranged by Fuso Financial, a registered business name of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Australia Pty Ltd ABN 73 074 134 517 AFSL 247271 as an agent of the underwriter QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035 AFSL 239545. Insurance cover cannot be exchanged for cash or a discount off the purchase price of the vehicle. Terms and conditions apply. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement and Policy Wording booklet available from participating Fuso dealers or www.fuso.com.au. ^

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As keen golfers, Jo and I regularly local community to continue to grow and sponsor various events held at prosper. Coffs Harbour Golf Club. Where do you hope to take the business in the next 30 K & J Trucks are annual sponsors of the Special years? Who knows what Children’s Christmas TH E H A R D ER the next 30 years will Party, Careflight and The E YO U WO R K , TH bring. Perhaps the next Grafton Truck Show and .” G ET LU CK IE R YO U Social Club. generation will continue We have also previously to develop and grow sponsored Coffs Harbour the business. Maybe our Breast Cancer Clinic, Coffs grandchildren will come to work here one day? But one thing Habour Rugby League Club, Coffs Harbour Clay Target Club and we have found out for sure is “the harder you work, the luckier you get”. Coffs Harbour Rotary Club. It is imperative for locals to support locals in order for our - Kevin & Joanne Schuhmann.

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T H E

S A W T E L L

CHAMBER of Commerce

The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce has been operational since the ‘60s, with the founding members being a handful of volunteers. Today the group is made up of people who are dedicated to ensuring Sawtell remains the vibrant and cosmopolitan hub that it has become! We met with President Clive Greenway and Vice President Martin Wells …

hat is the history of the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce? Who were the founding members, and how has the Chamber grown from that point? The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce began in the 1960s, but unfortunately records dating back to its inception are not available. The Chamber began simply as a voluntary organisation of locals coming together to benefit the community, and on April 5th 1985 it became an incorporated association under the Associations and Corporations Act. Over the years both membership numbers and numbers of those attending meetings has fluctuated, depending upon issues and events affecting the community and business. There were a couple of meetings in the ‘90s when attendance was about 60 to 70, where issues very close to the community were at stake, namely the removal of the Fig trees in First Avenue and the construction of a mall. What role does the Chamber play in Sawtell, and who does what? The commitment of many of the Sawtell business owners has meant that the Chamber has continued to operate in both good times and bad and has continued to grow and develop as it serves both the business and general communities of Sawtell. The Chamber is a voluntary and not for profit organisation. Currently the committee consists of Clive Greenway as President, Martin Wells as Vice President, Gary Gardiner as Treasurer, Michelle Lee as Secretary, Kathryn 90 coffs coast focus.

Greenway as Marketing Co-ordinator, have brought a certain energy to what was Maryanne Kahn as Chilli Festival Co-ordinator once a sleepy seaside town. and Event Manager, Duncan Marchant, JaneTourism research shows that people really Maree Cook, Rod Edwards and a group of do want a “simpler” holiday destination, hard working individuals who chip in at any such as Sawtell … How does the Chamber time when help is needed. drive people to the area? How often are meetings held and if I had Chamber members have the option of something I'd like to add, how could I contributing a small amount of money into an participate in meetings? advertising fund which allows us to advertise The Chamber meetings are held on the on television every month of the year, third Monday of every month at the with our "Best Kept Secret" Sawtell RSL Club, and everyone commercial reaching is welcome to attend. viewers in various parts of Of late, the area has NSW. This is aimed at se a If one decides to become especially encouraging people ea change to the ar r cosmopolitan. How is to consider Sawtell be mem from the city, no the very the Sawtell Chamber when planning of the family from e at of Commerce their next vacation. ar s young to senior in fact , ; ge instrumental in this? The commercial ta any disadvan e the ar st lo gs Was this always the also drives viewers in th the only ” e. lif ty ci of plan? to visit our website es stress As the Sawtell Chamber www.sawtellnsw.com. of Commerce, we have au which is constantly always aimed at creating a updated with events and different kind of coastal community information. - one that's small, intimate, friendly, and a We are also very fortunate to place to live and visit that offers more than have the support of other media such as the average coastal town. The boutiques, FOCUS ... thank you, Melly! cafés and restaurants that line First Avenue are In your personal experience, what makes unique to Sawtell. this part of the world such a wonderful The “metropolitan” vibe is thanks to the place to live and raise a family? selective mix of cuisines, lifestyle options Lifestyle! There is an abundance of great and tastes on offer, yet Sawtell still has that schools, tertiary education, excellent medical welcoming, village feel. Over the past few facilities, and you can choose to live beachside, years, Sawtell, referred to as “The Best-Kept in a rural environment or in the city and still Secret”, has seen not only an influx of visitors, be close to everything you need. Temperate but of new residents as well - all of whom climate, beautiful beaches, glorious mountains

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and ranges, the major cities are not far away - and then you have all things cosmopolitan right here in Sawtell. If one decides to sea change to the area from the city, no member of the family from the very young to seniors are at any disadvantage; in fact, the only things lost are the stresses of city life. What can the street expect in the next twelve months? We will continue to host various events in First Avenue throughout the year and we are very much looking forward to the re-opening of the Sawtell Cinema later in the year, an iconic and much loved part of our village. Upon moving to Coffs Harbour, I quickly realised you’re either a Northern Beaches or Sawtell kind of person. What makes Sawtell stand out above the rest? Probably it’s the sheer amount of daily activity that goes on in Sawtell. We have a central focus in First Avenue, which offers essential services such as the Post Office, Medical Centre, banking, Pharmacy and Real Estate Offices and also boutique shopping, complimentary health clinics, a range of dining options, cafés, a pub, two social clubs and so on. The local children can go to school right here, where they live. Because it’s on the beach and the estuary, there are a variety of year-round leisure activities for young and old. I think the difference is that Sawtell is pretty much a self-contained village with a life and personality of its own, rather than a purely residential suburb. Thanks guys.

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