Coffs Coast i56

COFFS COAST

Feature Story Michael Beattie

May 2015//issue 56

P R I Z E DR LEIGH SUMMERS coffs coast focus. 1

editor's note.

focus

Photo credit: Scott Carle Photography.

Orara Valley Estate

COFFS COAST

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts. melly@focusmag.com.au

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

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

Welcome to the May issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

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

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com

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

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

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

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

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Jo Atkins jo@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals.

Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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EDITOR: Melly Shute

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f I had a dollar for every time I’m asked how I find interesting people to interview each month, I’d probably be rolling like Kim and Kanye. Truth be known, I’m in shock myself that there are so many fantastic people living here amongst us. People who truly believe in their cause … people who keep-on keeping-on. It’s inspiring.

I feel truly blessed to be in this role. The deadlines and late press nights suck, but I love this job. My days are spent chatting to people, great people that are doing great things! And how do I find them? Well, it’s a combo of being attracted to interesting people. My friends at school were all freaks. But in all honesty, a lot of people contact

me. So, if you know of anyone who is doing something completely epic, please contact me. FOCUS is your publication, just as much as it’s mine. Send me an email.

This month is no different. Few have been more refreshing than third generation farmer Rob Foster. This June, Rob celebrates the new Mother Nature’s first birthday. It’s been a treat to watch Rob transfer the iconic fruit and vegetable market! Speaking of grounded, I met Tanya Slaviero - she and five of her girlfriends are taking a 60 km walk to fundraise for cancer research. If you see them training in their pink shirts, make sure you give them a honk to show support!

It’s no secret I’m obsessed with all things

art. The Archibald Prize fascinates me.

Annually, the prize is awarded to the best portrait of man or woman in art, science or politics. Entrants are artists who live anywhere in Australasia. Over the years, some of our most prominent artists have entered, and the subjects have been equally celebrated in their fields. I am beyond excited that the exhibition is coming to Coffs Harbour, giving us the opportunity to view the prestigious show at the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery. We interview Dr Leigh Summers to discuss the opening gala event and have a sneak peek at the works.

Final Say… “If you can dream it, you can do it”.

Walt Disney.

WALKER GROUP DPS

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

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N O O

Sapphire Outdoor Cinema Night

THE ULTIMATE COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE North Sapphire Beach is the kind of place you will truly be proud to call home. A place where the established and welcoming community is as much of a drawcard as the stunning coastal location.

Beachstone Café

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Lots ranging from 512sqm to 674sqm priced from just $245,000 – NOW SELLING

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Only ten minutes’ drive to Coffs Harbour and airport

VISIT THE SALES CENTRE Cnr North Solitary Drive & Fisher Road North Sapphire Beach OPENING HOURS Wed - Sun 9am - 3pm or by appointment

coffs coast focus. 5

16.

inside this

Archibald Prize.

Dr Leigh Summers, director at Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, has been hosting a very exciting exhibition calendar for almost a decade now. This year’s Archibald Prize exhibition is no exception ...

Issue 56 - May 2015

Alex Cowley.

Alex Cowley is an award winning landscape photographer who captures the beauty off the world around him with a camera.

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24.

Jimmy Wags.

Jimmy Wags has been drawing since his childhood on the family farm in Grafton. These days Jimmy can apply his work to just about any surface! His work is often compared to the works of Mambo, a compliment he takes in his stride.

6 coffs coast focus.

usual suspects.

the

7. what’s on for May 36. eat featuring local restaurants 68. social scene with Carole Beros

71. star guide with Terri 73. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast

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

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on

www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat

AROUND THE REGION //MAY 2015

Pre Mother’s Day Dinner at Beachstone CafÉ

8

8 COMICS ON THE RUN Cocktail for a Cure Party Six local women are walking 60 km to raise money for cancer research. Their first fundraiser is Cocktail for a Cure Party. Everyone is welcome!

Where Hoey Moey.

When Friday 8th May. Time 6:30pm.

Cost $40.

Tickets At Hoey Moey, Blush Makeup and Beauty Salon or Dealer Direct.

Where Beachstone Café.

When Friday 8th May 2015.

Time 6pm.

Cost $35 per person.

Contact 6653 6188.

Email info@beachstonecafe.com.au

30

Camp Quality, Unreal Estate and Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay bring us the funniest night on the Mid North Coast in an effort to create a better life for kids living with cancer.

Who MC Barry McLeod, Matt O’Kine, Ben Darsow, Gary Bradbury and Gary Ech. When Saturday 30th May, 8pm.

Where Sawtell RSL. Tickets 6653 1577.

Group bookings 6651 4486.

Cost $40 per person.

Wedding Open Day BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort Wedding Open Day! BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort invites you to our wedding open day. Experience our unique ceremony and reception spaces set and themed for you to picture your big day. Meet our experienced wedding specialists and inspect ceremony and reception locations.

Where BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort.

When Saturday 23rd May 2015.

Cost Free.

Contact 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour.

Phone 13 20 07.

23

coffs coast focus. 7

If you’ve driven past the corner of Park Ave and Grafton Street lately, you would have noticed the pop-up rug sale. The guys from Sydney are back and are selling Middle-Eastern rugs, bringing hand made rugs to Coffs Harbour. We caught up with Masee and asked what makes a rug perfect ...

Y

RUG GUYS

8 coffs coast focus.

ou’re back ... What brings you back to our perfect part of the world?

First off, it’s great to be back in Coffs Harbour. We have our main super store in Sydney, and every year we go to a different country town for a rug exhibition. We were really happy with Coffs Harbour last time round, so here we are again. There are not too many handmade rug stores in towns outside Sydney, so every year like our nomadic forefathers, we travel to different regions outside Sydney to showcase our exotic handmade rugs. The weather here is great and the people here showed us great hospitality, which made it easy to come back. We specialise in handmade rugs, and we were astonished by how much the people here appreciate handmade rugs and really admire the work that goes into weaving this artwork.

If one is looking to purchase a rug, what should a person look for?

We have rugs for all different spaces and tastes. First of all, you want to look at the back of a rug and see if it’s hand knotted or machine made. Generally you can tell a good quality rug by looking at the back

of the rug; the more the back of the rug looks like the front of the rug, the better the quality. Vegetable dye rugs are more pleasing to the eye than chemical dye rugs.

Ultimately, it depends on the taste of the person and what they want to achieve from their rug, such as a traditional floral pattern to become the centrepiece of any room, or maybe a simpler tribal design rug to make everything else in the room come together.

How can a rug add warmth and even value to your property?

Handmade rugs are unique and beautiful. On a chilly winter morning it can be a real treat to walk on a nice soft wool or silk handmade rug. They also make the room more inviting and cosy. Your guests will be astonished how these handmade rugs change colour depending on which angle you look at the rug from. You will have hours of joyful moments discussing this beautiful art work. Handmade rugs can turn an ordinary house into a beautiful home. If you are selling your house, beautiful rugs can make your home more appealing to the potential buyer. They can also protect your floors and make your investment property more appealing to lease.

Where are your rugs from? What do you look for when purchasing a rug?

We have rugs from all over the MiddleEast and Asia, from Turkey to India, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. When purchasing our rugs, we look for the wool/silk quality, thread count, origin and design of the rug. The aim is to provide our customers with a large variety of rugs from different regions. An example of this is our Balochi and other tribal rugs, which are from very remote villages, making them very unique. We do not have any two handmade rugs that are exactly the same.

A rug will last a lifetime; what should one typically pay for something of such high quality?

All hand made rugs last a lifetime.

However, there is a difference in price based on thread count, pile type, design and origin. This is a temporary location, and our prices are dramatically reduced so we can offer our fine quality rugs at very reasonable prices. So come down and say hello, and we are sure we can find something for your home...

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^Campaign Driveaway price of $38,990 is for all new and demonstrator MY15 Amarok Core 4x4 delivered by 31/07/2015. †Campaign Driveaway price of $43,990 is for all new and demonstrator MY15 Amarok Trendline 4x4 delivered by 30/06/2015. *Campaign Driveaway price of $51,990 is for all new and demonstrator MY15 Amarok Highline 4x4 delivered by 30/06/2015. ‡Payload is defined as the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) minus the Kerb Mass. Payload is the # † not be exceeded. Free automatic transmission available for new and demonstrator Amarok stock vehicles. maximum combined weight of $38,990 occupants, cargo, added andMY15 tow ball downCore weight towing).

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focusinterview.

M I C H A E L B E AT T I E A N D H I S FA M I LY ARE SYNONYMOUS WITH THE N A M B U C C A VA L L E Y R E G I O N , H AV I N G RU N B U S I N E S S E S H E R E F O R OV E R 3 0 Y E A R S . M I C H A E L’ S C H I L D R E N A L L L I V E A N D WO R K I N T H E R E G I O N, A N D T H E B E AT T I E FA M I LY H AV E J U S T W E L C O M E D T H E I R N E W E S T FA M I LY M E M B E R , B A BY L AC H L A N, I N T O T H E WO R L D !

michael BEATTIE 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS

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here are you originally from?

I grew up with my parents on a large wheat/sheep property near Parkes, NSW. We came to the Nambucca Valley in 1982, chasing warmer winters and a change in lifestyle. I finished my school years at Macksville High School, then did a Bachelor of Science at UNE Armidale majoring in Agronomy and Horticulture.

What is your background?

I worked in Agriculture for 19 years before coming back to Nambucca to take over the family business as a sea change.

I have three children. My daughter, Laura, has a cadetship with a local accounting firm and will finish her Bachelor of Commerce this September through UNE. My older son, Jonathan, is an apprentice chef who cooks amazing food at the Lime Mexican restaurant in Sawtell and my youngest son, Lachlan, is only two weeks old and he and my wife, Kathy, are in Coffs Harbour Hospital at the moment being looked after by the lovely staff there. My wife, Kathy, is an architectural draftsperson who does work

10 coffs coast focus.

for design studio 22. other along the way?

Your family are quite well known, with I love having my family close and miss my your family name being synonymous brother, Geoff, and his wife now that they with the region. What is it like having a have moved away. We do what we can to big family in various businesses? help support each other.

My brother, Geoff, and his wife, Lee, Your furniture store in had Beatties Carpets Camping Nambucca Heads has and Paints on the highway for been operational for 14 years, another business 32 years. What is that my parents started in the history of G I A M A ST RO N Nambucca Heads. They your business, B E LI EV E R sold the camping and and how have R E IN C U ST O M G paint section of the IN you grown it to O D D N SE RV IC E A N A C business and closed the the store that E W R E W H AT EV IN E PL carpet section down to it is today?

O PE T T O A SS IS ” Y. IT N move to Echuca, where What does a U M OU R C O M Lee’s family is from. Their day in the office daughter, Sarah, is still in look like for you?

Nambucca with her husband I usually start at and three children. My sister, 8am with paperwork and Joanne, has Curves in Nambucca planning, then assist with Heads and started the furniture shop with serving customers, loading and Mum and Dad in 1983. She ran the furniture unloading trucks for most of the day. I shop from 1995, when Mum and Dad sold like being a “hands on” manager, meeting her the business and started the other store. new people and helping in any way we can.

I then purchased the business off her in It is always exciting unpacking new lines of 2008. furniture. I am a strong believer in customer Do you support and encourage each service and doing whatever we can to assist

“

people in our community.

How have you seen your industry change, and how have you adapted to that change? The furniture industry has changed a lot since we started 32 years ago. Back then it was all made in Australia.

Today, about half of the products we sell are Australian made. We try and support our Aussie manufacturers over imports where we can. All our beds that we sell are Australian made, and about half of our lounges that we sell are Australian made as well.

Your wife is an architectural draftsperson and works on fantastic local projects. What does it mean to you both to live and work in this wonderful part of the world?

We love living in this part of the world and never get tired of the beautiful scenery, comfortable climate and the great people that live here.

I have to ask … If looking to purchase a La-Z-boy, what is your number one piece of advice? We are all different shapes and sizes, and so is the La-Z-boy range. It is important that you are comfortable in the lounge you choose!

Thanks Michael.

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2014

focusinterview.

COMICS ON THE RUN

MELiSSA B E L L

MELISSA BELL HAS A PASSION FOR NOT FOR PROFIT AND HAS WANTED TO PAVE A CAREER IN THIS FIELD FOR A LONG TIME. LANDING THE PERFECT

JOB AT CAMP QUALITY, MEL IS CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF ORGANISING HER BIGGEST FUNDRAISER OF THE YEAR: COMICS ON THE RUN.

W

here are you originally can have some much needed “time out”, hospital, from, and what brought education and family support programmes. you to Coffs Harbour?

Most recently a new service has been introduced I am originally from the to Camp Quality called the “Offspring Programme”, Northern New England area which supports children who have a parent living in a small country town with cancer. Our research showed a need for this called Deepwater. It was a lovely place to grow programme, as there are 10,000 children up and I feel so lucky to have a country under the age of 13 diagnosed upbringing, as it has made me the with cancer, undergoing cancer person I am today. treatment, in remission or I came to Coffs Harbour for receiving palliative care. Sitting work and have come to love the in the same classrooms across Our go al is to ensure every area and lifestyle. the country are another cancer After your studies, was not 10,000 children dealing with child living with s ha and their family mp for profit the line of work their mum or dads’ cancer.

Ca equal access to you wanted to pursue, or With no current support of mes Quality program was this something you fell this area, Camp Quality has nationwide.” into? found the need to help these Yes, I always wanted to work children. in the not for profit sector and was Your biggest fundraiser of the inspired to do this in my final year at year is Comics on the Run. What university. I was working for Lismore City is the history behind this wonderful Council at the time and charity events. One event fundraiser, and how much money do you in particular was raising money for the intensive hope to raise? care unit at Lismore Base Hospital. Seeing the Comics on the Run event has been running for impact that I had on the children and families really seven years at Sawtell RSL. A signature event for inspired me to work in events and make a difference.

Camp Quality, the force behind this is the amazing What type of work is Camp Quality involved in? comedian Barry McLeod. Originally from Scotland, Camp Quality provides support to children (0 - 13 winner of BT Publishing’s prestigious “Event years) and their families living with cancer. With Entertainer of the Year award for Australia and NZ”, the help of our volunteers, Camp Quality currently Barry McLeod has been instrumental in establishing reaches one in every three children living with cancer. and continuing this event with Camp Quality.

Our goal is to ensure every child living with cancer This year we are hoping to raise $20,000 on the and their family has equal access to Camp Quality night with our ticket sales and auction. This money programmes nationwide. will go towards supporting our local children and The services that Camp Quality offers include families in Northern NSW. recreation programmes, where children and parents Chris and Kerry Hines have always dug deep

“

12 coffs coast focus.

and have donated much time and energy to ensure a great night. Please tell me about Unreal Estate’s generosity?

Chris and Kerry from Unreal Estate have been major sponsors of the Comics on the Run event and a huge support to Camp Quality over the last five years.

A great local business, Unreal Estate is community minded, and they’re lovely people to work with.

Camp Quality really appreciates their support.

We often see Unreal Estate also offering their time and expertise to the auctioneering on the night, to help raise some money.

Who is on the bill this year? What can we expect?

You can expect a fantastic night filled with fun and laughter again this year! With a fresh line up, you will be entertained by the hilarious Matt O’Kine from the Triple J Drive show, Matt and Alex, the very funny Gary Bradbury, the only sax playing comedian, Ben Darsow, presently the best comic in Perth and Gary Eck from the blockbuster movie Happy Feet!

Thanks Melissa.

the plug!

Tickets are on sale now from 1st April at Sawtell RSL Club. You can buy tickets directly at the club or organise group bookings by calling Camp Quality office 02 6651 4486.

When Saturday, 30th May Time 8PM Where Sawtell RSL Club Tickets 6653 1577 Cost $40 Group tickets 6653 1577

focusinterview.

FATHER AND SON ANDREW AND CLINT ROWLINGS HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED AS SOME THE BEST COMPETING ATHLETES FOR THIER AGE GROUP IN THE TRIATHLON WORLD OVER THE PAST DECADE. FOCUS FOUND OUT ABOUT THEIR LATEST ACHIEVEMENTS AND ALSO WHAT MOTIVATES AND INSPIRES THEM!

ANDREW AND CLINT ROWLINGS ake us back to the beginning: where and why did you first compete in triathlons?

Andrew: In the mid 1980s I had lost fitness, lost muscle, lost motivation due to ongoing injuries from playing rugby. I took the opportunity to compete in the then Gold Rush from Coffs to Nana Glen as a team member, and then jumped headlong into multi-sport. Some 30 years later, I’m still participating and will continue to do so until the body lets me know it has had enough.

Clint: Hitting my early 20s and seeing triple figures on the scales, I decided it was time to do something about the "love handles", so I started running. Not too long after that I dragged myself around a club triathlon, and the obsession started.

What has been you best achievement to date?

Andrew: My longevity. Being able to back up season after season and actually look forward to competing as a Masters athlete. There have been some milestone events over the previous three decades, but definitely my best achievement is being able to manage the body well enough to remain competitive into my mid-50s.

Clint: I’m improving every year since I started racing. If I can keep it up, then by the time I am Dad’s age I’ll be setting the world on fire!

Who has been your biggest inspiration?

It is awesome watching newcomers achieve something they previously deemed impossible.

At the recent BCU event in Coffs Harbour, there were a lot of first-timers consumed with self doubt in the lead up week. To watch them face and then conquer the unknown on race day gives me that warm fuzzy feeling. The opportunity to help someone along the initial stages of their journey is a privilege and to observe and be a part of their continual progression is truly 14 coffs coast focus.

inspirational.

What do you love about the sport?

It is the challenge. There are plenty of good swimmers, fast runners and strong cyclists in our region - but throw all those disciplines together, and it narrows it down substantially.

Camaraderie is also a major drawcard for many participants, with support and encouragement a factor in people taking the first step, and then continuing their multi-sport journey.

Tell us about the preparation and training that you go through in the lead up to an event ...

That depends on the distance and location of the race itself.

If it is an organised touring party to an overseas race, a lot of time is spent on the logistics as well as the physical and mental preparation necessary.

Having organised groups to races in New Zealand, events in Hawaii, weekends away at domestic races, along with training camps in the USA - each event is different and presents its own challenges.

In most cases, the physical preparation is the easy part, although for Ironman events the training usually requires 20-25 hours of dedication each week. The majority of participants have the fitness to reach their race day goals, but need that mental reassurance as their event gets nearer.

What is your favourite event to compete in and why?

We are fortunate on the Coffs Coast to have a thriving triathlon club with an extended racing season. Without doubt the Coffs Harbour Triathlon Club events are my favourites.

Having raced in some great international locations does not diminish the quality of what we have on our doorstep.

A couple of other favourites are Hell of the

We have athletes ugh ro from 14 years th ing riv st l al s, 60 te to their la ent, and for self-improvem tive si hopefully the po ent training environm assists RO provided by RET their in le op pe all those ur jo ney.” own individual

“

West in Goondiwindi and Hervey Bay 100, both long course races.

In short, you don’t have to travel halfway around the world to find a good triathlon; they exist regularly from Jetty Beach in Coffs.

Tell us about RETRO ...

RETRO is an acronym for Rowlings Endurance Triathlon and Running Organisation and is a formal training group open to anyone keen to improve their swim, bike or run fitness and performance.

Some are members of the Coffs Harbour Triathlon Club, while some are located elsewhere in the country and receive their training programmes via email.

We have athletes from 14 years through to their late 60s, all striving for self-improvement, and hopefully the positive training environment provided by RETRO assists all those people in their own individual journey.

How does one get involved with RETRO? Contact via email at coffs_coach@bigpond. com and I will get in touch to find out your goals, and from there we will look to work together in an effort to hit any targets. It may be a specific event, general fitness, or even a positive lifestyle change.

Not all people involved are elite level athletes ... Yes, there are a number of top-liners, but there are also many non-competitive participants looking for a healthier existence. Also you can check out Instagram RETROTRIATHLON Twitter @coachRETRO Facebook www.facebook.com/retrotriathlon What are some of the challenges you face in

such an intense sport?

Remembering everyone’s name! As we continue to attract more people to our set sessions, the real challenge is to ensure that the individual needs of everyone are not overshadowed by the positives of a group environment.

The majority of people thrive and tend to lift when surrounded by others; however, there are some who are not suited and can become intimidated, rather than more competitive.

Without doubt, keeping an awareness of an individual’s best interests, despite the group training atmosphere.

Clint, tell us about your involvement with "Budgy Smuggler".

Wearing the smugglers started as a bit of a joke. Triathletes as a group normally take themselves far too seriously, so I decided that wearing "budgys" would keep my day full of laughs and a fair bit of abuse from spectators!

The guys at Budgy Smuggler send me the brightest, wildest and sometimes most offensive "smugglers", and I gladly wear them!

What do you both enjoy about living on the Coffs Coast?

Our near perfect climate which gives us the opportunity to have external training options 12 months of the year.

It does not matter where in the world you travel, returning to Coffs Harbour brings that sense of appreciation for the natural assets we have on our doorstep.

Yep, it’s great to go to Hawaii or Asia or the USA, but it’s always even better to return to a home base that is grossly under-valued by some of its residents.

Thanks guys.

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P R I Z E DR LEIGH SUMMERS DR L E IG H S U M M E R S, DI R EC TOR AT COF FS H A R B OU R R EG IONA L GA L L E RY, H A S B E E N HOST I NG A V E RY E XC I T I NG E X H I B I T ION CA L E N DA R FOR A L MOST A DECA DE NOW. W I T H 52 WOR KS ON DI S PL AY T H I S Y E A R, T H E R E A R E PL E N T Y OF FA M I L I A R FAC E S, I NC LU DI NG AC T R E S S CAT E B L A NC H ET T, A S W E L L A S T H E W I N N E R OF T H I S Y E A R’S PR I Z E , A P ORT R A I T OF PE N E LOPE S E I DL E R BY F IONA LOW R I E . W E CAUG H T U P W I T H L E IG H TO L E A R N A B OU T T H E PR E ST IG IOUS A RC H I BA L D PR I Z E E X H I B I T ION T H I S MON T H.

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W

hat is your role at the Art Gallery, and how have you seen the gallery develop?

I am the director of the gallery and have worked here for nearly nine years. The size of the gallery remains the same but our exhibitions and public programmes have seen the space used to capacity. Our beautiful grand piano is a huge asset that has performers approaching us for venue use. We have even had a wedding here and would like to do more of these.

Could there be a more elegant place for such an occasion? I think not. We have also held dinner parties here, along with classical music and jazz concerts. The gallery is small, but we use it in diverse ways to serve the cultural needs of the city.

Coffs Harbour is privileged to be hosting The Archibald Prize once again. What makes this year’s exhibition so special?

Archibald is always a thrilling time at the gallery. This year the standard of works is so high, that not even the most acerbic of the competition’s critics, John McDonald, could pan it! This really is a show for everyone to enjoy. Paintings this year are large (actually too large to get though the gallery doors) and

coloured and of impressive dimensions, and small. That said, only three paintings are not this alone make it very memorable. That said, touring because of size restrictions. Some of the wonderful photorealism of the onsie by the most exquisite work exhibited is in almost Rebecca Hastings is so brilliantly painted, miniature format. it too is unforgettable. Other works have Describe the works that will make up political clout that imbues them with their the exhibition, and who is able to enter? own importance. Jandamarra Cadd’s What are the basic conditions of impressive large-scale portrait entry? titled Proud, situated at the Any artist over the age entrance of the gallery, is of 18 in Australia is able Jandamarra ve a most impressive work to enter the Archibald.

Cadd’s impressi rait featuring Aboriginal Works that make up large-scale port ated singer and songwriter the exhibition are titled Proud, situ of at the entrance Archie Roach. Sophia from across the paintm ost the gallery, is a ing spectrum. Viewers Hewson’s delicately k impressive wor can expect to see very painted (and drawn) ginal featuring Abori fine examples that work titled artist kisses r te ri w singer and song draw from impressionsubject also makes a ” Archie Ro ach. ism, expressionism, and profound and important hyperrealism. Indeed, all the statement - this time about “isms” are represented in this gay rights. Hewson’s painting of Archibald. the female artist kissing her female What is your favourite piece and subject is extremely subdued in its why? What piece really stands out to loveliness. In stark contrast is the marvellous exuberance of Paul Ryan’s painting, rox, you? characterised by its masterly and confident Gosh, such a hard question. So many good works, so many favourites. It is impossible not use of paint. The artist uses impasto to create thick layers of colour and shine to achieve a dwell on the luscious double portrait of Cate freshness and immediacy.

Blanchett, which positively glows with light.

Why is something as prestigious as The This is a joyous, sensuous painting deftly

“

Archibald Prize great for the Coffs Harbour art scene?

The Archibald is arguably the most significant competition (outside of EMSLA, our own national still life prize) in Australia. It comes with great cultural baggage and is known to create dynamic conversations in the art world. It attracts Australia’s finest painters, and this year is no exception. Emerging and established painters are well represented.

The latter include artists Vincent Fantauzzo, Wendy Sharpe and Peter Churcher.

What is the gallery doing for the launch of the Archibald Prize exhibition?

Ah, that’s a secret Melly. Only those who come to the opening will enjoy that particular surprise. All I am saying on that score is, “performance art”, sweetie! We anticipate this will be as amusing and as remarkable as the paintings.

Thank you Dr Summers.

the plug!

The Gala Opening night is on Saturday 18 April. Daily viewings will be open to the public from 10am to 4pm from 21 April.

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ROB FOSTER

ROB FOSTER, A THIRD GENERATION FARMER, TOOK OVER MOTHER NATURE’S 12 MONTHS AGO. THIS BUSINESS HAS BEEN OPERATIONAL IN COFFS HARBOUR FOR OVER 20 YEARS! IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, ROB HAS DEVELOPED THE SPACE IN TO A CONTEMPORARY PLACE WHERE HE SELLS THE FRESHEST OF PRODUCE! THE BEST PART? ROB GROWS A LOT OF THE PRODUCE ON HIS OWN FARM!

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Y

ou are a third generation farmer from a very well known farming family.

What was your childhood like in Coffs Harbour, and how has that impacted the farmer that you are today?

My childhood was great ... In those days we had the freedom to roam (when not at school) from sunrise to dusk. We would fish from the jetty, ride our bikes all over town. My father was a banana grower, and we spent plenty of time playing and helping in the packing shed, and my maternal grandparents grew beans, among other things, at Englands Road. With a large extended family of aunties, uncles and cousins, we spent a lot of time together, and we have all inherited a strong work ethic.

What is the history of the farm that you own and operate today? When did the opportunity present itself to purchase the farm?

Originally I worked my farm at Gaudrons Road in Sapphire for about 20 years, which grew avocados and bananas. As the viability in bananas and avos started to dwindle and growing challenges started to emerge, I began to look at hothouse farming, as there was more control over the elements. I sold the Gaudrons property and bought the adjoining property to the family farm at the end of Mastracolas Road from a local Italian family about eight years ago. This property was more suited to hothouses, and from there I began to grown vine ripened tomatoes, cucumbers and herbs. It is conveniently very close to the shop too!

How and why did you transition from bananas? How did operation in

garlic seen above was grown on his own farm.

growers and helps me ensure Queensland impact your quality and old fashioned farm, and how did you service for our customers. transition to stay n ow r We have ou Congratulations on ahead of the game? e ng ra ts en condim e the “new” Mother Far north th ed nd pa ex and have e ud Nature’s turning Queensland farmers cl in to e ng shop ra one! You have started to impact on ng ni ea cl l ra natu meats l ca changed the business our returns, as they lo , ts uc od pr dramatically in that were able to farm and seafood. ” time. What was your large, flat tracts of land number one goal when with machinery and due deciding to buy the to the climate, had more business? production. Many of our local Thank you! The year has flown! farms were and are on steep hills, so Obviously the business needed a facelift, productivity was slower and the work was and our number one priority was to sell as heavy and physically challenging. To stay much seasonal local produce as possible. We viable, I have tried to look ahead to new have gone from only a few local products at growing trends and techniques. the time of purchase to over 50. We have our Mother Nature’s is an iconic Coffs Harbour own condiments range and have expanded business, operating here for over 20 the shop range to include natural cleaning years! When did the opportunity present products, local meats and seafood. To make itself for you to buy that business, and it a convenient, well priced outlet that has how have you transferred your farming an ethical stance on the product we sell is a skill set to the business today? priority. It has been a dramatic change from I was ready for a change and a new set farming, and I am enjoying the challenges. of challenges and had been talking about Your wife, Nicolle, is a busy interior transitioning to this type of business for quite designer who owns and operates her a few years, but was really waiting for the own business. What has been her biggest right opportunity. As a lot of my produce influence in thea development of Mother was already being purchased by restaurants Nature’s? and local outlets, it seemed like a natural Nicolle is principal of Natural Habitat progression - particularly as I have been able Interiors and is responsible for the new look to enjoy watching the expansion of hothouses and steers our marketing direction. We in the local region. I could see the potential wanted to smarten the building up without to extend the network of local farmers it looking too gourmet or upmarket ... It’s reducing their food miles and being given the important to be authentic and we are, in opportunity sell as much locally as possible. simple terms, a regional fruit and veg shop!

I think that being a farmer helps me relate She takes an active interest in the new product and understand the challenges faced by other

“

lines we introduce. As long term locals, we are aware of our demographic and want respond to those needs. We are wanting to create a market atmosphere and an enjoyable shopping experience that spells out quality and value. The shop will continue to evolve, as we have some exciting plans in the wind.

Social media isn’t something you’d necessarily expect of a farmer, but your business is extremely active in this space.

Please expand…

To relaunch the business and market it appropriately, social media is a very valuable and interactive tool. Both our families have always had a keen interest in food, cooking and entertaining, and Nicolle’s sister, Dayle, has extensive experience in both wholesale and retail within the food industry. She assists with the “back end” of the social media and has helped to build a strong following. It’s often said “we eat with our eyes”, and it’s important to provide a visual feast of our products and finished recipes. We actively promote our suppliers, wholesale clients, sponsor local events and post images of our beautiful scenery, which keeps our feed engaging and informative.

How important is the term “keep it local”, and what does that actually mean to you?

We believe in supporting local business wherever it’s possible … both personally and professionally.

Being long term locals and small business owners, we appreciate the sense of community we share and the support within it. That means the world to us!

Thanks Rob. coffs coast focus.

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KARENDALLAS SKEE KAYAK, SUP & EDUCATION CENTRE

ART N QUILTING STUDIO We are a professional Longarm Machine Quilting Service and a member of the Australian Machine Quilting Association, using the latest Optimum Gammill Quilting System with a computerised Statler Stitcher for precision and accuracy.

I would love to help you with your quilting ! Our aim is to make longarm quilting affordable for our customers who love to make patchwork quilts but haven’t got the time to quilt the top themselves. Knowing you will have your quilt finished to the highest quality.

We offer very affordable quilting at a very low $2.50 a square foot .

At Art n Quilting we have a beautiful and extensive range of quilt patterns and designs to suit all budgets Art N Quilting Studio also stocks an extensive range of high quality wide back quilting fabric priced from $20.00 per metre and Australian Made Matilda’s Own wadding/Batting If you would like to get a quote on your quilt please visit www.artnquiltingstudio.com.au you will find a free quilting calculator simply

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fill in the length and width in inches and you will know how much your quilt will cost to be quilted by us.

We do all our Quilting with high quality Superior Omni Thread Because each quilt is unique and one-of-akind, we prefer to discuss your quilt with you before any work is done. This can be done in person at our studio , by phone or email.

Please visit my Facebook www.facebook.com/ ArtNQuilting you will find photos of all my quilting I love quilting, sewing and creating. Quilting is both a passion and a creative outlet, I attend local patchwork shops and spend many pleasurable hours sharing all thing quilting .

Quilting at Misty Mountain Getaway is one of my favourite experiences I can highly recommend this . Misty Mountain getaway has very talented teachers and a beautiful location.

My favourite quote When Life gives you scraps make a quilt Happy Quilting Sandra Kelly

meet a

local.

SUP OR STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING HAS BECOME AN INTERNATIONAL CRAZE AND A PASTIME THAT APPEALS TO PEOPLE OF ALL AGES! WE CAUGHT UP WITH KAREN DALLAS, QUALIFIED INSTRUCTOR ...

Your business Skee Kayak is like no other, when and why did you decide to become a business owner and what is it that you do?

My husband had been a custom making wave skis in Wollongong throughout the late 70’s and ‘80s. We moved to Mullaway in 1988. Colin continued to custom make wave skis and then ventured into the specialised production of kayak paddles. We have sold kayak paddles all over the country to other kayak manufacturers and shops. Eventually I was asked to start selling their products for Australis Canoes and Kayaks, Mirage Sea Kayaks and B-Line.

From there we have grown, now stocking 14 different local and international brands of canoes and kayaks and eight different brands of stand up paddle boards and thousands of accessories. Colin still makes custom made kayaks and stand up paddles.

To understand my customers’ needs and requirements, I studied to become an instructor and assessor for Australian Canoeing and also ASI Stand Up Paddle Board Instructor and School. Being able to relate to what the customer wants to do with a kayak and SUP, then I can help with advice.

Stand up paddle boarding, aka SUP, has become an international craze. Why do you think it’s taken off?

Anyone can do it. With a bit of instruction, they can do it even better! The most senior person I have taught SUP to is 79 years young.

The youngest, a nine year old. SUP can be what you want it to be - an energetic workout from racing in down winders to the adrenalin rush of surfing, to the peaceful cruise on crystal clear waters watching the marine life underneath your board. Nothing better than a visit from a dolphin or turtle to make the SUP memorable.

Who makes up the daily operations of your

business? Are you on the water during lunch breaks?

Me, me and me! I run the retail shop and also conduct kayak and SUP lessons.

This weekend I’m heading over to Inverell to instruct and assess some kayak guides wanting qualifications. It’s hard work, but someone has to do it! I will be heading to Taree later in the year to instruct a kayak social group to improve their technique, build confidence and broaden horizons. If I can increase someone’s skill set by 5%, I can increase their enjoyment by 30% ...

I wish I were on the water at lunchtimes. My day starts with either a personal paddle or I am out instructing either kayaks or SUP before I open the shop. Afternoons in summer I’m usually out teaching lessons, with the help of daylight saving. I love my job. Helping people enjoy and learn on the craft they own, or introducing them to something totally new!

I especially enjoyed the recent Seniors Week programmes!

You also offer SUP School. Who are your students?

Locals, or visitors to our area, people who have purchased boards wanting to learn correct technique before venturing off on their own ...

Please share any new and interesting news you may have?

Skee Paddle Sports Education Centre - learn all types of paddling, flat water, sea/ocean, white water, swift water rescues, Stand Up paddling- enclosed, exposed waters and surf, water rescue and safety. Something for everyone, from a single person wanting to learn, to families, groups, schools and those wanting qualifications.

Skee Kayak Centre Karen Dallas 6654 2962

complete PEST CONTROL What is a pest and termite specialist?

It takes knowledge, experience and the latest equipment to successfully protect a home from pests - and especially termite attack. The annual damage bill to homes in Australia from termites is estimated at more than $100 million, so it’s essential to have someone that will take the time to understand your house and the issues you have.

Who uses your services?

We have a large number of domestic clients, as well as a host of local restaurants, clubs, businesses, builders and senior villages. We still provide our customers with individual personalised service. No person is ever the same, so no property is ever the same.

What makes you different to other pest control services?

Besides our dedication to quality of work and value for money, seeing that we are one of the largest pest companies on the Mid North Coast, one thing I’m so proud of is Complete Pest Control is 100% local. I went to school at Toormina, my kids will go to school here, my partner is a nurse at the hospital, and all jobs stay local. We sponsor two rugby league teams, as well as a local Motocross rider and other events in our community, and there are plans for further sponsorships into 2015 and beyond.

LIVING DOLL LOVE & KISSES 1592 pairs. That’s how many of their lovely little soft stretchy cosy slippers Love & Kisses has sold in the last two years. That’s a lot of happy feet! At less than $20, look no further than these for the best Mother’s Day gift ... and treat yourself to a pair too.

Or, if you’ve already given Mum slippers, check out the three big new deliveries of handbags and two boxes of wallets that arrived last week, with perhaps a matching soft scarf for $9.95, or Pashmina $14.95.

Judy says the other top sellers right now are the market baskets made from super tough water hyacinth, in two sizes, and great for holding crafts as well as for shopping ... and all those happy people planning special holidays are loving the new range of travel bags with built-in anti-skimming protection.

Add in lots of new collectable Disney characters from the Jim Shore Heartwood Creek collection, especially the beautiful Cinderella and a big new shipment of the handpainted Lucky Roosters from Portugal, and you’ll understand why so many people say, “I always know I’ll find exactly the gift I need, at Love & Kisses”.

Call in this week, and see for yourself.

Living Doll’s very first Apprentice NOW one of their Best Premier Stylists; Leah Simpson has hit the Runway with Style. Destined for greatness, Leah has always had an eye for style. Experiencing Fashion Week Australia 2015 for the first time, being part ofthe exclusive GHD Style Team working alongside some of the greats like Jayne Wild on designers such as Toni Maticevski was such an eye opening event. Leah said, “The looks definitely had a vintage undertone with that modern twist that could really be adapted to everyday wear.”

Leah is excited to be bringing home great on trend looks to ramp up everyone’s autumn style. Leah understands the first difference for a great hairdressing experience is REALLY listening to what her clients want and need and then CARE about the results, so you can really change someone’s outlook on life. Hair is not just about a simple colour and cut, more about what your colour does for your complexion, and what cut will give you the much needed lift. Leah said, “Hairdressing is my passion, and being able to have such great opportunities all over Australia and the world while lucky enough to be living and working in the beautiful Coffs Coast is a dream come true.”

XO Dolls.

$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.

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WE LOVE

WE LOVE

WE LOVE

WE LOVE

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PHOTO CREDIT: Wendy Tanner.

ALEX cowley

A L E X COW L E Y I S A N AWA R D W I N N I NG L A N D S CA P E P H OTO G R A P H E R W H O CA P T U R E S T H E B E AU T Y O F F T H E WO R L D A ROU N D H I M W I T H A CA M E R A . I N S P R I R E D BY S I R DAV I D AT T E N B O ROUG H ’S L OV E O F W I L D L I F E , A L E X C OW L E Y, A L L T H E WAY F RO M T H E U K , NOW C A L L S B E L L I N G E N H O M E . A L E X I S C U R R E N T LY E X H I B I T I NG AT T H E B E L L I NG E N GA L L E RY.

T

ell us a bit about your background ...

I was born and raised on the south coast of England until I was in my early twenties. It was then that I moved to Australia. Although bigger towns and cities like Brighton weren't too far away, my time in the UK was predominantly spent in a more rural setting. Open fields, woodlands, downlands, ancient ruins and of course, the famous Sussex white cliffs were all on the doorstep and were regular stamping grounds for my friends and I as I grew up.

How did you arrive in Bellingen?

When I arrived in Australia in 2001, I settled, like many before and since, in Sydney. Working as a photographer and retoucher for a studio in Double Bay, I became a member of the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP). I also fell in love, and in 2005 was married. It was my wife at the time, who first introduced me to Bellingen. I had an instant attraction to it. The rural setting, rolling hills and farmland were reminiscent of the sorts of places I had grown up in. A little later, when we decided to start a family of our own, we couldn't think of a better place to raise a child than Bellingen, and so relocated from the city.

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That was in 2007 and although no longer my surprise I received a handwritten response married, I've been here ever since. It feels so from Sir David himself. It's now one of my much like home now, that I can't imagine most treasured possessions. being anywhere else.

When did you realise that photography What inspired you to become a was the medium for you? photographer?

I think I had my first camera at The desire to record what around the age of eight or nine.

I saw as the beauty in the It was only a little 110 - film, W H EN W E world around me, was point and shoot, but D EC ID ED TO planted as a seed from from the first shot I has Y STA RT A FA M IL an early age. Ever hooked. I bought my WE O F O U R OW N, since I can remember first 35 mm SLR in my F IN K O CO U LD N ’T TH I have been fascinated early teens. It was an TO CE A BE TT ER PL A N by the natural world East German Praktica A TH D R A IS E A CH IL SO and the work of Sir MTL 3 and had screw in D N A BE LL IN G EN M O David Attenborough. lenses.

It was very basic, FR D TE R EL O CA It was a weekly treat as very manual and built like .”

TY CI TH E a child to be allowed to a tank. I loved it. With no stay up and watch one of his automatic features to fall back documentaries. I was entranced, on, I had to learn how to manually not only by the wildlife, but also by the set exposure, focus and everything stunning locations. I remember thinking else. I progressed through a couple of at the time, that whoever had seen and those until I could afford to upgrade to a filmed these places must have the best job Canon system. I also, with very understanding in the world. I'm still overawed by his natural parents, converted the spare room of the history films now. A few years ago I was lucky house into a darkroom and learnt to develop enough to be able to express my gratitude to and print my own photographs. him in a letter, along with a photograph. Just Your passion is landscape photography; to somehow say thanks was enough, but to why do you find this niche so compelling?

“

The world around us contains so much beauty, but so often it's fleeting. It might be a ray of light hitting a hillside, the colour of a sunset, or perhaps a gathering storm.

Sometimes, within seconds these moments pass, never to be repeated. I have some inner need to try to capture those events, to record them so that others can share in that special, almost secret moment too.

The local area obviously inspires you; do you have certain areas that you return to regularly? Why? As a landscape photographer it's impossible not to be inspired by where we live; there is just so much diversity here. I’m a regular visitor to places like Gleniffer, Dorrigo and of course, our plentiful waterfalls. With each visit I see something new. Time of day, light, weather, all of these things can dramatically change the appearance of a scene, and so I don't think I've ever been to a location and just thought, “Right, well that's that then”. I want to return to see it at dawn or dusk or in the rain, because each time the landscape has a different story to tell.

I hear you have won a couple of awards.

What were they?

During my time as a member of the AIPP, I was fortunate enough to receive a number

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of awards and honours. Undoubtedly the biggest for me and the highlight of my career so far, was being named the Australian Landscape Photographer of the Year in 2005.

Later, I was also awarded the NSW Landscape Photographer of the Year and in 2009 was made a Master of Photography by the AIPP in recognition of my work. I've also received recognition overseas as a finalist in the International Photography Awards. Locally and very proudly, I have won the Photography & Digital section of the Bellingen Arts Prize as well as receiving two “Highly Commended” certificates, the most recent only a few weeks ago.

Many of your pictures have an ethereal feel to them. Where does your inspiration come from?

I'm not always sure where the inspiration for the look and feel of my photos comes from. I read a lot, especially about history and historical drama. I often think that it's the scenes that these books conjure in my imagination that influences the images I create.

Producing a picture that I am happy with can be a drawn out process. I will frequently spend days looking at a picture, working on it and perhaps reworking it, before I'm satisfied. It's something that comes from within, and it's not

always there when I want it. There are days Do you teach or run workshops at all? when I can stare at a shot and not know how One of the first friends I made when I arrived to proceed, while there are others when it all in Bellingen was fellow photographer, Gethin just seems to flow.

Coles. Together we have run a number of There are others that convey photography workshops and for the last isolation and a colder, bleaker three years, he and I have taught a interpretation of the world. digital darkroom course as part of What is it in a scene Camp Creative. Workshops are that triggers the something that I enjoy, and I H A D SO M E difference?

I hope to hold more in the FA N TA ST IC I've noticed that future. I believe there is TH E R ES PO N SE S TO some of my shots a growing interest in the S, PH OTO G R A PH tell a bleaker, darker area for photography, A S W EL L A S A T ES R TE story. Sometimes and it's great to meet IN SU R PR IS IN G E V TI EA this is because that's like-minded people with CR IN A N EW ...”

E IN M F O what the subject or a passion for it.

N PA SS IO the conditions in which I feel it’s also important it was taken suggests. to help people understand Often for me though, it's that it all just doesn't happen at a reflection of my emotions as the push of a button. Cameras have much as anything else. At the time come a long way and are more accessible of my separation, I slipped into depression. than ever before, but the difference between I felt very much alone, and the world as a good photograph and a great photograph far as I was concerned was indeed a cold, isn't the camera; it's the photographer. It's the bleak place. Looking back, I realise that the same when it comes to processing. Somehow, pictures I produced at that time were a way digital photography and Photoshop don't seem of expressing and trying to understand what to be trusted as mediums for creating art, and I was feeling. Thankfully that time has passed it's real shame. There is a lot of skill, time and and the lighter side is now more to the fore. learning that goes into a well photographed

“

and well edited image, and no amount of filters or auto wizardry can compensate for that.

The recent exhibition you had at Bellingen, was it a success?

My first solo show was great! I'd not seen so much of my work displayed in one place before, and just getting it together was a success of sorts. I had some fantastic responses to the photographs, as well as a surprising interest in a new creative passion of mine.

While photography is and always will be my first love, over recent years I've been producing sculpted leather masquerade masks. For me there is something very meditative about mask making, and I really enjoy the physical aspect of the creative process. This exhibition was the first time I'd put them on show alongside my photography, and the response was way beyond my expectations.

You have an exhibition opening soon; when and where can we find it?

The first show was so much fun, that when an opportunity to hold another came along - I snapped it up. The new exhibition is currently running at Bellingen Gallery in Hyde Street, Bellingen and will be on until the end of May. www.alexcowley.com www.facebook.com/leatherheds coffs coast focus.

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MYSPACE • Heidi Brett Vast Interior •

“

We wanted to create something that was unique and quirky but also warm and cosy that also had all the modern conveniences. Most importantly, I wanted a home for my family that we were drawn to and that we loved and that allowed our imagination to run wild. ”

avid and I have been together since high school and our home was inspired by a shared passion for antiques, medieval history, fantasy novels and our first trip to Europe.

We purchased land in 1993 in the spectacular Crossmaglen valley. It’s postcard material, from its lush dairy countryside up to the spectacular mountains. We fell in love with the valley and believe it would give any beachfront vista a run for its money.

I drew the plans up using a favourite picture of mine of an Irish medieval church and tried to take into account our spectacular scenery in the planning, and we started building in 1998.

It took 12 months to complete due to the wet weather and our builders took to calling it the valley of the mists, because it could be sunny in town and as you turned into our driveway, it would be raining. Nothing much has changed, with the valley always lush and green, and it’s no wonder it was named after Crossmaglen in Ireland.

With the interior, although the house is modern, we wanted to try and capture the essence of an older time in keeping with 26 coffs coast focus.

I CAME TO THE COFFS HARBOUR AREA WITH MY FAMILY IN 1976. WE LEFT TARRO, A SMALL TOWN NEAR MAITLAND, FOR A WORKING TRIP AROUND AUSTRALIA, AND THIS WAS AS FAR AS WE GOT. I’VE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH TO TRAVEL EXTENSIVELY IN AUSTRALIA AND OVERSEAS, AND I CAN HONESTLY SAY THAT FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA, WE LIVE IN THE BEST AND POSSIBLY THE MOST UNDERVALUED PLACE IN THE WORLD.

the exterior. So we pitcher (which belonged incorporated high to my grandmother) Some of my ceilings and used antiques, old books favourite pieces rich, deep colours and pictures as well ST from my store, VA room , on the walls and as daggers, swords, is th Interior, are in er lv beautiful cedar double edged axes, si y m starting with us io or timber in the gothic a brass rubbing from gl y m cabinet at th re oi arched windows and the tomb of Robert m ar carved good doorways. I also tried the Bruce, shields and houses all of my e.” ar sw as to source furniture gargoyles. china and gl that could hide all the My favourite room modern appliances, and would have to be the long one of my first buys from Vast room, which encompasses the Interior was a beautiful art deco kitchen, dining and lounge, which inspired TV cabinet that hid the TV, DVD has a gothic window framing the everand all the cords. changing mountains.

We wanted to create something that was Some of my favourite pieces from my store, unique and quirky but also warm and cosy that VAST Interior, are in this room, starting with my also had all the modern conveniences. Most silver cabinet - my glorious carved armoire that importantly, I wanted a home for my family that houses all of my good china and glassware, with we were drawn to and that we loved and that the most interesting piece being a shelving unit allowed our imagination to run wild. made from the parts of an old camel cart that We love to collect things from our travels, as holds a host of interesting things, from a horn well as have a home for our family treasures, drinking cup found in a market in Wales to items and in every room there are interesting things that my grandfather took to the World War. wherever you look: oil lamps, wash basin and This is the room we spend a lot of time in

“

throughout winter, enjoying the view of the mountains. I know a lot of people think that living in the country your views are virtually the same year round, but that’s just not true - the mountains are different every single day and are just as breathtaking as the ocean, only different.

Our home has plenty of unique pieces and when buying for home, I first have to love the piece and if it has a story, even better. My favourite piece at home, also from my store, would have to be the bookcase in our library, which is a one off piece that has incredibly heavy carved pillars from an old temple in India.

A few years ago we decided to add an addition to our home; due to the inability of getting the same building materials as the original building and the fact we were also after a pool and entertaining area, we decided to channel the TV show Grand Designs and blend the old in with the new. In terms of decisions that we have made with our home, the adding of this light and airy extension has been a wonderful idea.

It has ensured that our gorgeous home is not only a great cosy winter hideaway, but also a wonderful summer and entertaining home that’s comfortable for the whole family in every season.

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local.

ARM TATTOO ARTIST - COAT OF ARMS

H

ow has Coat of Arms Tattoo Studio grown over time into the successful establishment it is today?

When opening my shop in 1992, I worked seven days a week to get the shop established. I have had a number of tattoo artists and piercers come and go over the years. I’ve also watched the industry evolve into the more popular and accepted art form it has become today. My current crew are all qualified artists with their own unique styles and abilities. I offer a high quality, friendly service that allows people to feel welcome to expand their body art. I’ve had a lot of experience in tattoo shows/expos and seminars, which has developed a great reputation for my business. I believe in word of mouth.

What is “custom work” and “large-scale” pieces?

Custom work is something customised to a client’s request. For example, a client may bring a picture of a dragon in and they would like to alter certain details to suit their personal taste. A lot of people may have a number of pictures in their mind. It becomes a combination of the tattoo artist’s interpretation of customers’ ideas and then our job to design, draw and finally tattoo the work.

What if I have a tattoo that I have outgrown? Can you offer me a solution?

Yes, we get this question a lot. We can make old tattoos look new and fresh, bringing

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them back to life. We often fix bad backyard work or tattoos done by inexperienced tattoo artists. Or, we can completely cover a design you may have grown out of or do not connect with anymore.

We have become quite experienced in cover-ups. People can easily access tattoo equipment, so there are people out there who have been tattooed by someone without any experience. We often see a lot of really bad impressions of what a tattoo should look like, which ultimately puts people at risk of health hazards such as disease and infection.

A little bird told me that you have many tattoos of skulls on your body - why the fascination?

I have 201 skulls tattooed on my body.

I celebrated the 200-year bicentennial by having a tattoo done of the famous landing of the First Fleet. But, I had it tattooed in skulls!

My first tattoo was a skeleton tombstone with my motorcycle name and my name, which started my fascination with skulls.

Final say…

At Coat of Arms, we have five artists. We all have personal particular styles and abilities.

Between us we tattoo realistic, mystical, fantasy, symbolic, freehand abstract and script. I have been in this trade for over 35 years - a fact I’m very proud of.

COAT OF ARMS Shop 6 & 7 Monterey Arcade, Coffs Harbour.

6651 1893. www.coatofarmstattoostudio.com.au

R WORK?

ndent research has shown nts rate us with:

f 10 for overall satisfaction:

LOOKING FOR WORK?

OOKING FOR WORK?

Independent research has shown our clients rate us with: • 9 out of 10 for overall satisfaction: we are friendly, helpful, supportive.

• 9 out of 10 for being treated as a person.

• Most scored us 9 or 10 for the help we give to prepare for work.

Independent research has shown Come to a service that respects you, listens to you ourandclieprepares nts rate usyouwith:for work!

• 9 out of 10 for overall satisfaction: 1300 369 5627 we are friendly, helpful, supportive.

for more info contact

K

E

Y

J

O

B

S

• 9 out of 10 for being treated as a person.

2014 Winners Employer of Choice Community Services

focusinterview.

JIMMY WAGS HAS BEEN DRAWING SINCE HIS CHILDHOOD ON THE FAMILY FARM IN GRAFTON. THESE DAYS JIMMY CAN APPLY HIS WORK TO JUST ABOUT ANY SURFACE! HIS WORK IS OFTEN COMPARED TO THE WORKS OF MAMBO, A COMPLIMENT HE TAKES IN HIS STRIDE. JIMMY HAS HIS WORK ON EXHIBITION AT ART CENTRAL, LOCATED IN COFFS CENTRAL.

30 coffs coast focus.

here are you from originally?

I'm originally a Grafton boy and have moved to Mullaway in the last three years.

When did you first develop an interest in art?

I guess it all began when I was a young child.

I grew up on a farm, and I would draw birds, trees and my surroundings from day one. My neighbour asked for one of my first drawings of a rosella, just in case I ever became famous. (Still working on that famous thing for you, Sue).

My art as a child was pretty normal - just drew things kids would draw. I took an interest in comic book art as I became older and would hang with my pal, Jamie, and draw Spiderman and Venom characters, refining my pencil work and detail skills. My parents would head to the beach most weekends (my dad surfs). So we would pack the car, strap on the boards (and sometimes forget to strap, lost a few off the roof over the years) and head to Mullaway. Surf mag art was always of interest.

The Captain was a bit early for me, but Gonad Man and various surf artists through the late ‘80s and early ‘90s caught my eye. I was also a skate rat in Grafton, so I had a lot of exposure to the skate graphics by artists such as Jim Phillips.

At what point did you make the transition from pencil sketches to colourful canvas work, and what technique do us do you use?

Up until about 2010 I had been doing mainly out of a texta in a range of sizes is perfect for detailed pencil work in sketchbooks. I guess me. tattoo style with some strangeness thrown in But you don’t stop at canvas, you also … I would use a technique I’ve coined “pencil apply your work to guitars, skateboards, wandering”, where I will simply start in the surfboards … middle of the page with lines, shapes, and Yeah, they opened up endless surfaces keep working until something to paint, house doors, surfboards, appears and go from there skateboards, guitars, cars - pretty - sometimes leading to much anything if the surface nothing, sometimes is prepared correctly. I did a a to something really kitchen splashback a little The Captain was t bu bit early for me, cool. The weird art while ago, and that turned various G onad Man and I do has usually out great! te la ugh the surf artists thro come from this Your art has ht ug 0s ca ‘80s and early ‘9 a skate process. similarities to Mambo so my eye. I was al had a I moved on and Drew Brophy’s I so rat in Grafton, e at sk from sketchbook works ... e th to re lot of exposu as ch su drawing to larger My work has been ts tis ar by graphics scale works from described as very ” s. ip ill Ph Jim around 2010. My “Mambo”, which is a mates would constantly compliment, as Mambo art is tell me to get serious about rad! I have had a lot of influence being an artist, and finally my through the surf and skate art scene, beautiful wife gave me the push needed so my work reflects that, and also Drew and we decided to move to Mullaway Brophy’s Posca work. Drew is one of the Posca and have a crack at being an artist. This surf art kings, and his wife, Maria, markets his allows me to do a lot of surfing, which is also a work brilliantly. I look up to his work and her huge inspiration to me! business sense.

How did finding Posca Paint Pens open Describe your work in one sentence: up your art world? When I found Poscas, I Colourful, happy, weird and wonderful. found an easy transition from pencil and pen Have you exhibited? Where can people see work to large-scale colour works, as I didn’t find your work and what do have coming up? paintbrushes all that easy to use. Posca Paint I’ve exhibited in Grafton, Woolgoolga, Coffs Pens solved that problem for me. Acrylic paint and Yamba. I have done the markets around

“

the place allowing people to buy and chat to me about my art. I have my work displayed in various places along the northern beaches including Le Hip clothing store. The owners of Mullaway General Store, Wally and Jan have my art displayed in their store. Rustic Mezedes also have my art displayed in their restaurant and I have my work exhibiting Art Central.

What is Art Central?

Art Central is a gallery in Coffs Central founded by the very talented Jeremie Scahill.

What started off as seven local artists showcasing their work has now grown to 14 artists displaying their art in the gallery. The complex has been fantastic with us, allowing some of Coffs’ art to be on show. We have had artists come and go, with new artworks re hung every six weeks or so, keeping the space fresh.

It’s been fantastic for me to be involved, and I thank all that keep this space functioning.

What would you say to an artist who wants to go all the way? I'd say find an artist who you aspire to be like. Get their advice. Although I consider myself to be “super green” still, but if it’s worth anything I would say, keep creating art. Be persistent. Find your niche. Criticism is constructive; not everyone is going to like what you do. Finding balance is the key. If like many of us you are an artist, whilst juggling work and family, find time to do art in the mix of life, then keep it up. Shred ‘til ya dead!

Find more about Jimmy’s work at www.jimmywagsart.com, follow him on Facebook or on instgram @jimmywagsart. coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

Gavin Lockley S Y M P H O N Y OF A US TRAL I A Gavin Lockley is an Australian composer, singer, pianist and conductor with a particular passion for all things Australian. Together with Symphony of Australia and Regional Concerts, Gavin is bringing a magical outdoor performance of iconic bush poetry, soaring vocals and an exhilarating orchestral composition to Coffs Harbour on June 6.

W

hen did you realise your passion for music and performing?

I started singing when I was 10 years old; I had an audition for Lés Miserable in Sydney and it was a bit of whim, but I ended up getting the role of the little kid in the show. Getting the part was an accident really, but it definitely whet my appetite for performing. The character was a really obnoxious kid, and they must have thought that I was obnoxious enough to pull it off!

I did music lessons and piano, and this was the big event that made me really want to pursue a career in the industry.

How have you gained your experience to get to where you are today?

I just said yes to everything! If I was asked if I could sing, I said yes ... if could I play the piano? I said yes. So I think I faked it for ages, and eventually the build up of experience won out. You do as many performances as you can, and you learn as much as you can as you go.

What have been some of the highlights of your career?

The Symphony of Australia show which was done with Sydney Symphony at the Opera House a couple of years ago was a big and exciting show. Another highlight was when my wife, Renae, and I got asked to sing at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, which was an incredible experience.

Sometimes some of the best gigs are also the ones you don’t see coming, when you go on tour and it’s just you and the piano and it’s just a really lovely and intimate experience with a small crowd. Before starting this tour, we did a performance with a full orchestra at the beautiful Mayfield Gardens in Bathurst. It was an outdoor concert with a fantastic view and stunning landscape; the outdoor events are

32 coffs coast focus.

relaxing with a great vibe, and everyone can appreciate the setting.

Bringing the Symphony of Australia event to Cassegrain Winery and Coffs Harbour Showgrounds in June, what will the show entail?

The show includes international opera stars Renae Martin and Jose Carbo with the Australian Institute of Music Orchestra in an outdoor setting. I will be conducting my musical compositions to favourite Australian bush poets Banjo Paterson and Henry Lawson. I hope that what André Rieu has done with music in European culture, we can achieve for Australian culture. Not in a comparative way, but it’s a dream to create Australian content that is about celebrating the Australian way of life and Australian bush poets. The Symphony Orchestra makes it really colourful and exciting; I’m trying to make Australian culture as epic as I can.

With an iconic Australian theme, how will the show be celebrating Australia’s cultural heritage?

Some of the famous writers portrayed throughout the show include Banjo Paterson, Henry Lawson, Dorothea Mackellar with the iconic I Love a Sunburnt Country, and C.J Dennis, who is the great folk poet or backyard philosopher of Melbourne.

People took his poems to Gallipoli and used to read them in a little book to help them remember home. The poets that we are reading about are the people who helped form the Australian identity. They’re all about family, good Australian values, the beauty of the land and everything that we should celebrate.

Tell us about Regional Concerts and Mobile Stage Truck, and how they have helped to bring this performance together.

Well, Regional Concerts is the concert management leg of Mobile Stage Truck,

and they are aiming to bring new and unique outdoor music events to the people of regional areas. I think what is really great about this event is that we are performing on one of their mobile stage trucks. What this means is that a show of this enormous size can suddenly happen absolutely anywhere. Mobile stage trucks open up to become a concert hall stage in the middle of nowhere; it is just brilliant.

Being able to perform literally anywhere brings a whole new level to what we can do, combining stunning landscapes with the huge sounds of an orchestral musical performance. It was great to get involved with Mobile Stage Truck when we did the show at Mayfield Gardens in Bathurst, and after this event we decided to work together to bring more of these shows to other regional areas.

Why is it special to be able to bring this event to regional areas like Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour?

It is a show that will be a first for some, and it will be a great cultural celebration with the really beautiful kinds of sounds that people probably haven’t heard as much as everything else. It will be a magic performance with an intimate and relaxed vibe outside in a beautiful setting. We hope to bring the community together with the epic massiveness of a full orchestral sound with a choir.

When I was a kid I always went to Fantasy Glades in Port Macquarie and thought it was magic - the area was part of my earliest childhood memories - a big shoe that you could go inside, right? I hope we recreate some magic too at our performance!

Don’t miss the performance at Coffs Harbour Showgrounds on Saturday 6th June. Visit regionalconcerts.com.au for tickets and info.

saso.creative Apocalypse Google Is Here It has been a long time coming, but what has been termed the Google Mobile Apocalypse or Googlegeddon has finally arrived.

Clark RUBBER Clark Rubber has, for many years, supplied the Coffs Coast with quality artificial grass surfacing.

Short pile artificial grass can be used as a practical and good looking floor surface for decks, verandahs, cubby houses, dog training areas, and swimming pool surrounds. Long pile artificial grass, or artificial turf, is generally used to imitate freshly cut lawn in outdoor areas such as courtyards, playgrounds, alley-ways, BBQ areas, etc. There are two main reasons for choosing an artificial turf surface. If you have an area in your yard that cannot grow grass (shaded or too moist), then an artificial grass surface will provide a great looking, long lasting solution.

The other common reason for people to choose an artificial turf surface is they never have to mow again.

A small area of grass or an area with difficult access can be transformed into a smart looking area with no maintenance required ever again. Clark Rubber stock a range of artificial grass surfacing, plus all accessories required for installation. Experienced staff will help you with choice and will give advice on laying the product indoors or outdoors. Remember to ask for our free comprehensive “Step by Step” guide to laying artificial grass. Clark Rubber also offer an installation service. We will give an obligation free quote, and do the whole job for you. Drop into Clark Rubber on Mastracolas Road, Coffs Harbour (next to Supercheap Autos) and check out the range of artificial grass.

Coffs Harbour Library Once again, Coffs Harbour Libraries will be taking part in National Simultaneous Storytime as part of the annual Library and Information Week celebrations. This is the 15th year this colourful, vibrant, fun event has been held.

Every year an Australian picture book is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, preschools, childcare centres, homes and bookshops around Australia. In 2014, over 460,000 children at over 3,100 locations across Australia took part in National Simultaneous Storytime.

The book selected for this year’s National Simultaneous Storytime is Aaron Blabey’s the Brothers QUIBBLE. This is a heartfelt story about family life, with wonderful rhyming text. Fundamentally, it is a drama-filled exposé of life with a troublesome baby brother!

Aaron is the author of many well-loved, award-winning children’s picture books, including Pearl Barley & Charlie Parsley, The ghost of Miss Annabel Spoon and the best-selling Pig the Pug. Coffs Harbour Libraries will be presenting National Simultaneous Storytime the Brothers QUIBBLE at the Harry Bailey Memorial Library, on the corner of Coffs and Duke Streets, at 11am on Wednesday 27 May 2015. Morning tea will be provided for all the families and preschool groups who attend.

As of 21 April, Google began a structured, systematic de-ranking of websites that are not mobile-friendly. In other words, henceforth Google intends to reward websites that are responsive and that offer a good user experience when viewed from a phone or tablet; conversely, websites that are not mobile-friendly will get a smaller and smaller piece of the page rank action by being systematically demoted.

Here’s the official announcement from Google: “Starting April 21, we will be expanding our use of mobile-friendliness as a ranking signal. This change will affect mobile searches in all languages worldwide and will have a significant impact in our search results.”

Ouch.

A non-responsive site could have a significant impact on your business if your site is not playing nicely on mobile devices. Hopefully this announcement simply bolsters your existing commitment to ensuring your site is mobile-friendly ;) If not, consider this: 60% of all time spent online is via a mobile device.

That’s right — mobiles have overtaken desktop-based browsing. So even if Googlegeddon wasn’t upon us, there are very good reasons to get your website mobile-ised.

Don’t go building yourself a digital Google fallout shelter and hoarding your desktop-perfect website. It won’t do you any good. The Googlebots are coming and they will find you.

Don’t get burnt by Googlegeddon. Talk to saso.creative today about your new or existing website, and how we can help you best integrate a responsive web strategy.

TARGETED DESIGN FOR YOUR BUSINESS

WEBSITEDESIGNPRINTDESIGN LOGODESIGNBRANDDESIGN BOOKDESIGNCOPYWRITING

call sam and nanette

6658 7666 sasocreative.com.au coffs coast focus.

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ATKINSONS Real estate What is the buzz around town? Can you reveal the secret?

The buzz is that Atkinsons are expanding; we have acquired a Coffs Harbour agency and will be operating our second office in the Coffs Harbour CBD at 216 Harbour Drive. Not that you can ever keep a secret in this town!

What does this mean for Atkinsons?

For us it is exciting to think that we can increase the access to our award winning services and results within the Coffs Harbour and Northern Beaches market. For too long we have been hearing from property owners and investors who would love to have our team of specialists taking care of them and their property, only to have the next line be “but you don’t have an office in Coffs Harbour”.

Atkinsons will provide the same services across both offices, being residential, commercial, land and prestige sales, residential and commercial management, and Holiday Accommodation management and guest services. Of course, our team of experienced staff will continue to provide in-depth market appraisals, local market knowledge, and industry tips, advice and property audits/styling advice for sales and rentals.

What this means for the home owners, investors, tenants and guests across the Coffs Coast is that they will have improved access to experience property services, customer focus, and exceptional results that are industry leading. Suddenly, every listing will have twice the exposure across two shop-fronts with more agents talking to more buyers.

In your opinion, what do you think is the most important thing people should know when choosing a real estate agent?

Choosing a real estate agent has been identified in numerous consumer surveys as being “the most stressful” part of the property sale

34 coffs coast focus.

and management process. With an over-supply of real estate agencies across the Coffs Coast, it is without doubt a daunting decision.

Here are my most important points that should alleviate some of that daunting procedure: 1. Ask around your trusted sources (friends and famChoosing a real ily). Undoubtedly there estate agent has will be someone who in been identified mer can provide feedback su n co s numerou and a recommendapractices. g “the surveys as beinpart of tion (or otherwise).

5. For peace of most stressful” le and 2. Attend open homes mind, list with an the property sarocess .” and see the agents agency that is a management p and agencies in action Member of the Real before making contact.

Estate Institute of New At the end of the day you South Wales (REINSW), will be entrusting them to and are therefore bound to showcase your property and judgan industry Code of Practice, ing them on their performance (prior giving you additional peace of to letting them know you are a potential mind. client) will allow you to see them in reality.

In your opinion, what do think is the 3. Never choose an agency based on selling most important thing people should fee. It is almost a sure bet that the level of the know when choosing a property managselling fee will be directly proportional to the er? amount of advertising exposure and agent I would add to the points mentioned in the dedication that you will receive. Discountprevious question that you should also look ed selling fees result in agents potentially for a team that contains a justified mix of discounting your property to turn them over experience and skills. It is unrealistic to expect quickly. I know it is cheesy and clichéd; howthat every property manager will have years ever, you “really do get what you pay for”! and years of experience. What is important is 4. Conduct your research prior to having that an agency has a structured support and agents appraise your home. View the sold listtraining network in place for their property ings on Domain.com.au and realestate.com. management staff, that each property managau and while you’re there, have a look at the er has a “capped” portfolio number to ensure level of advertising exposure your property is optimum service delivery, communication and likely to receive. The three biggest gripes from care of your property. At Atkinsons we have a buyers are No Price, No Address and Poor Senior Property Manager with over 15 years’ Photos, so why would you list with an agency experience that oversees the team and is that employs any or all of these annoying available to them every day.

“

Also look for “value-added” items such as comprehensive routine inspection reports (with photos), regular rent reviews, securing fixed term leases, 24/7 access to your documents and property details, monthly informative newsletters, yearly sales appraisal of your investment, and advertised rental properties in print with photos.

What does make you stand out among your competitors?

When I bought the business, I had a vision to be the preferred choice for real estate services on the Coffs Coast. If nothing else, I wanted to take our way of doing business, providing service, and achieving results to the broader community without the hype, stress or pressure so often associated with the property sector. I still live by our mission statement “to provide a successful, stress-free, satisfying property experience without the pressure”.

We strive do what we love to do better than anyone else, and hence we were voted as the REINSW Small Agency of the Year for 2014 by our peak professional (and independent) body. We are all immensely proud of this recognition in just our third year of operation since purchasing the business, and this Award was based on the criteria of results, performance, service, staff training and systems.

Anything Goes Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company will launch their latest production, Anything Goes, a riotously funny musical with a score featuring many of Cole Porter’s best loved numbers, including You’re the Top, Delovely, Blow Gabriel Blow, and of course the title song, Anything Goes.

Set in the 1930s, the action takes place entirely aboard the ocean liner S.S. American, where famous nightclub singer Reno Sweeney is en route from New York to England.

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, a bevy of tap-dancing chorus 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.

Tickets are on sale now, so it’s all aboard for Anything Goes, setting sail at the Jetty Memorial Theatre from May 8th - 31st.

giant media Google have changed the way they rank search engine results, and starting April 21, if your website is nonresponsive, you may find your site slip in rankings.

Coat of arms Tattoo Studio We here at Coat of Arms Tattoo studio would like to introduce you to our artist Craig Spriggs, who has been working here at the studio for six years.

For years responsive website design has been a factor in Google’s search algorithm. Sites that respond better on smaller devices have potentially ranked higher in search results.

However, up until now, this ranking factor has had little impact for non-responsive websites.

Simply put, the new change will see mobile-friendly websites gaining priority over non-responsive sites on smaller devices.

Craig started tattooing in Tasmania in 1991 and has travelled up and down from Launceston to the Whitsundays.

Craig and his family have travelled up and down the east coast of Australia, where he has worked at various studios sharing his love and passion for the creative arts.

If your website is not awarded the mobile friendly label, it will rank lower in mobile search results, and will fall behind competitors. Google has stated this change will have a “significant impact” on mobile searches worldwide, as it has a real-time effect.

As well as developing a tattoo style of his own, in the last couple of years Craig has been working on specialising in a new school style of tattooing, with bold lines and bright coloured work. He also specialises in doing 3D and realism tattoos.

Real Time means the next time Google crawls your site, it will determine whether or not it is responsive, and rank accordingly.

This change is immediate, and will affect your rankings immediately, so you need to act now.

If you’d like to avoid your website losing its Google rank, book a free consultation with Giant Media today by calling 6651 5322 or visit www.giantmedia.com.au

coffs coast focus.

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Sesame yellow fin tuna, sea scallops, wakame salad, soft shell crab and a wasabi pickled ginger and soy aioli. from surf club restaurant + bar.

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

36 coffs coast focus.

the pier hotel

the hoey moey

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.. To make a reservation, please call The Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.

Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside hotel with spacious beer garden, open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities.

Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg

Come down and check out our new kitchen and a revamp of our offerings to you. Try our new Gourmet Pizzas, where you can dine in or takeaway or stick with our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS from Monday to Sunday. Watch this space, with more exciting things to come.

Head Chef David Ricketts.

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

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.

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

Fri and Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 8:30pm.

plantation hotel Sunday 10th May is Mother’s Day, and what better way to show your love and appreciation for your mum than with a hassle-free family meal she won’t need to cook!

The Plantation Bar & Grill is dedicating the day to mums everywhere, with our wide ranging selection of delicious meals to suit any taste or budget. You can choose from our à la carte menu, $8.50 menu or daily specials board tailored to the guest of honour, your mum.

Not only can Mum sit back, relax and be treated like a queen, our kids’ entertainer, Miss Sprinkles, will keep the kiddies amused with handmade Mother’s Day cards and other fun craft activities from midday.

Every mum will receive a complimentary glass of Yellowglen champagne on arrival with forward bookings. Call 6652 3855 to secure your booking today.

Chef John Marshall.

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.

horizons restaurant & bar

REMEMBER TO BOOK FOR MOTHER’S DAY Sunday 10th May! All mums receive a free glass of Debortoli champagne on the day!

Breakfast: 6:30am - 10:30am full buffet breakfast, with lots of yummy treats including Eggs Benedict, chocolate danishes, pancakes with berry compote and whipped butter.

Lunch: Noon - 2:30pm special 2 or 3 course limited choice menu.

Dinner: 6pm - 8:30pm brasserie menu with winter blackboard specials.

Bookings advisable for all.

NEW WINTER MENU As the temperature starts to chill just a little, Horizons has unveiled its winter menu. We are looking forward to showcasing the best of the region’s produce in the winter months. So come in our try our mouth watering delights.

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

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

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coffs lane bistro 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 an 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!

Book now for Mother’s Day lunch and dinner.

Licensed and BYO option available. Bookings recommended.

Extended hours throughout holiday period.

pasfields restaurant BAr deck Booking now for Mother’s Day at Pasfields.

Breakfast on the deck or inside, 8 - 10:30am.

Reef and beef buffet lunch, 12 - 3pm. $60ph adults.

Kids 4 - 9, $10 / 10 - 13, $20.

Value Thursdays $4 house wine and tap beer. $12 12” pizzas.

Owner & Chef Norbert and Ko.

Nautilus Beach Resort, 78/746 Pacific Highway Sapphire Beach 0421 781 231 coffslanebistro@gmail.com Lunch: Tues-Sun, 12pm-3pm.

Dinner: Tues-Sat, 6pm-9pm. Fri & Sat, 8am-9pm. Sun, 8am-3pm.

Chef Kim Robson.

Dine in only from 5pm.

Drop in or email for your next occasion admin@pasfieldsrestaurant. com.au and let us make it special! Spend your special day as the only bride anywhere to be seen - as it should be your day!

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

House cured salmon pastrami, puffed wild rice, dill aioli and micro herbs.

flooded gums restaurant

Surf Club Restaurant & Bar

Make sure you get in soon to sample Executive Chef Darren Ryan’s autumn menu, before it’s gone. The team at Flooded Gums will soon be launching their winter menu.

Seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, with stunning, absolute oceanfront views.

For lunch come and enjoy our King Prawn salad, with citrus, mesclun, avocado, macadamia nuts and Gay’s amazing mango mint dressing.

Our specials board changes daily, always featuring fresh local seafood and delicious dishes of the day.

Conferences, wedding receptions, parties and celebrations.

Please join us.

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” (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.

North Bonville Road, Bonville 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au Open 7 days; bookings essential.

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Executive Chef: Darren Ryan.

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.

Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan.

SURF ST CAFÉ Emerald Beach New look • New menu • Awesome views Come and visit our new café in Emerald Beach.

Enjoy relaxed affordable dining on the deck as you watch the surf roll in.

Surf Street Café is available for functions and weddings.

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.

Owners David & Jayne Hagarty.

Head Chef Dan Williams

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 www.surfstreet.com.au

Main Entrance Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour 6652 8588

Breakfast & lunch: Wed - Sun from 8am.

Dinner: Thurs, Fri and Sat.

7 days. Mon - Wed & Fri - 7am - 5pm, Thurs -7am -7pm, Sat - 7am 4:30pm, and Sun - 7:30- 3:30pm.

CAFFEINE CENTRAl café

la hacienda 101

NEW CAFÉ IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

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 take away.

We are open from 6:30am until 3pm with a range of tasty breakfast and lunch offerings. Our specials change daily and with the cooler weather upon us, we have pasta, soup, curry and other hearty meals to keep you warm.

We also have a selection of homemade cakes, biscuits and sweet treats.

All our meals are available to dine in or take away, and don’t forget we have the smoothest coffee in town.

Come into the heart of town, sit, relax and have a coffee and a laugh with us.

Owner Steve Calder.

City Square, Opposite Specsavers, Coffs Harbour 0418 665 620

101 Fiddaman Rd. Emerald Beach 6656 1633 www.lahacienda101.com

Monday - Friday, 6:30am - 3pm.

Open 7 days a week, from 6pm.

Owners Michael and David.

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MISO SOUP. Ingredients (serves 2) Approximately 500 ml of water

recipe

2 big tablespoons of organic miso paste (choose a good quality non-GMO paste) 1 serve of cooked organic buckwheat/soba noodles (just follow the packet instructions they only take 4 minutes to cook!)

Small knob of ginger - grated or mashed up. ¼ long mild chilli, finely sliced ¼ bunch of coriander Finely sliced shallots ¼ cup of organic, non-GMO silken tofu or firm tofu ¼ cup of mixed grated carrot and zucchini

beachstone café

6 finely sliced snow peas

Sourcing only the freshest local produce to develop a variety of delicious meals, there’s sure to be something to suit everyone’s tastes.

2 button mushrooms

Method

Don’t forget Mother’s Day is fast approaching!

Be sure to reserve your table now for either our “pre Mother’s Day“ dinner or Mother’s Day lunch! Dinner will be held on Friday 8th May, from 6pm at $35 p/head, including a 3 course banquet style meal.

Lunch will be from 11:30am on Sunday 10th May with every mum receiving a complimentary champagne on arrival.

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

Owner Aileen Chen.

Bring a pot water (the 500 ml) to the boil. Place all the ingredients in the saucepan: the grated carrot and zucchini, finely diced tofu, snow peas, shallots, chilly, ginger, coriander, place the lid and bring back the the boil for just 30 seconds.

Take the pan off the heat and then add the miso paste and whisk it in - this way you won’t boil all of the healthy digestive supporting qualities out of the soup.

Put a little extra chilli, coriander and shallots on top to jazz it up, and you’re good to go - a super healthy dinner or lunch OR breakfast in less than 15 minutes!

Wholly Human is a holistic health education business running regular cooking and meditation courses: www.whollyhuman.com.au

• MANGO SPLICE • With autumn now upon us, the crew at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip have created the perfect balance of warm summer days and cool autumn nights with the Mango Splice and its delicate blend of fluffy egg whites, infused mango vodka, fresh lemon juice, mango nectar and cinnamon dusting.

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focusinterview.

MACAULEYS MACAULEYS IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS SERIOUS COMMITMENT TO FOOD, AND THE INNOVATIVE CONTEMPORARY MENU IS AGAIN EVOLVING TO CREATE AN AMAZING TASTE EXPERIENCE BY ADDING THE EXOTIC FLAVOURS OF THAILAND, WITH NEW OWNERS CHAROEN AND GAYE SROYPHET. HEAD CHEF CHRIS WOOD BRINGS FRENCH AND ITALIAN FLAVOURS TO THE MENU, TAKING YOU ON AN AMAZING DINING JOURNEY

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C H A RO E N S R OY P H E T

hat is your background, and great food experience to the customer, offering a choice of when did you first decide taste and cuisine combined with wines that complement the that you wanted to cook for food, a great atmosphere and quality service. a living?

Our focus is on quality ingredients using fresh local seafood, I grew up near Korat, North including King Prawns, Salmon, Blue Eyed Cod, Swordfish East Thailand. My roots in Thai and of course, the famous Wooli oysters. We use New cooking go back to my early childhood. Our family grew our England lamb, South East Queensland beef, hormone free own rice, vegetables, and herbs. We raised our own meat. I chicken, free range eggs and as much local produce as can remember my mother grinding and crushing herbs and possible. All desserts and entrees are house made, and meals using lemongrass, galangal and the skin of Kaffir limes - fresh are garnished from fresh herbs from the onsite flourishing ingredients I still use in my cooking methods today. herb garden. The restaurant is also a perfect I can also remember climbing coconut trees function venue, and we want to promote and picking the coconuts to make fresh this side of the business for corporate, coconut milk. Mum would crush the weddings and social events. pulp, mix it with cold water, then After finishing Australia doesn’t necessarily squeeze the pulp through a cloth. high school , I d an k ko have its own cuisine, with ng Ba moved to As a young boy I also lived at the aining tr s ar ye our palates being built over o tw t spen local temple and helped cook and el and ot H ni Ta it us time from a blend of our D at prepare food for the monks. After before Chang Mai Hotel ty.” mixed cultures. How have you finishing high school, I moved to si attending univer implemented that in to the Bangkok and spent two years training new Macauleys menu? That is at Dusit Tani Hotel and Chang Mai the beauty of the modern Australian Hotel before attending university. table and palate. Our menu reflects a Macauleys has recently been taken choice of different styles and taste. We have over by yourself and your wife, Gaye the contemporary selection incorporating steaks, Sroyphet, and you have owned many restaurants seafood and chicken, along side a select Thai menu. The in Coffs Harbour. Macauleys is renowned for its response to the menu has been great. great reputation! What is your vision for the new What are your favourite menu items?

Macauleys? We want to continue the great reputation Macauleys has gained over the last seven years by providing Fresh local deep-fried Snapper with sweet and sour sauce is an innovative and contemporary menu and adding the my favourite, and garlic and pepper chicken and king prawns amazing taste of Thailand. The menu is based on bringing a served on a bed of vegetables topped with fresh coriander.

“

CHRIS WOOD

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hat is your background in food?

My parents were in the hospitality game early on, so I guess I sort of fell into it, really. Italian food was the flourishing cuisine at the time, and then I moved on to French.

How do you plan on implementing your background into the new menu? My intention is to keep the bold but simple flavours of Italian and blending the European style with local produce.

How important is sourcing fresh, local produce when planning the menu? “Fresh” is the key word. Local produce is always going to be fresher, and we get to promote the wonderful produce within the area!

Macauleys is an exciting place to dine, with the chefs being open for guests to witness first hand the action in the kitchen. What is it like to work in that environment? Being an open kitchen can be challenging at times, although the atmosphere can have quite a buzz. It is nice that the customer can personally thank you for their meal when they are leaving.

A place where you can have a modern cuisine entree and a Thai main meal - why is giving people choice so important to you?

The customer needs to have a choice; it complements the dining experience.

the plug!

Macauleys Restaurant: 99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour.

Phone: 6652 5970. Follow us on Facebook and Trip Advisor.

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focusinterview.

GRUMPY’S STEVE AND VIV

GRUMPY’S GINGER BEER IS PRETTY MUCH THE MOST DELICIOUS GINGER BEER YOU’LL EVER TASTE. AT GRUMPY’S LOUNGE, SITUATED IN THE CINEMA WALK ARCADE, YOU’LL FIND A PERFECT LITTLE HIDEAWAY WHERE YOU CAN TASTE THE TRADITIONALLY BREWED DROP. THE PRODUCT WAS BORN OUT OF THE LOVE OF GREAT EXPERIENCES SHARED WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS. WE INTERVIEW OWNERS STEVE AND VIV…

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here are you both from? Where did you meet, and what is your background?

Steve: I'm born in Coffs, and Viv is from Perth. My background is horticulture and floristry, and Viv’s is interior design and visual merchandising. We both spent 15 years in Sydney working on our careers, but didn't know each other then. We actually met on a bus in Macksville ... True story!

How did your father's love for ginger beer influence your love for the drop?

Viv: I grew up remembering the long, hot Perth summers and time sitting outdoors with family and friends. Dad's brew was always a hit, and for me it’s always been my drink of choice. I love the health benefit of ginger and find it thirst quenching.

Where did ginger beer originate, and where do you brew?

Steve: The origin of ginger beer stems from England in the 1700s, where ginger was added to drinking water for purification, and this progressed to a fermented beverage sold worldwide. We use fresh, local ginger grown using organic practices to ensure the finest quality ingredients. Initially we brewed in a local microbrewery, hand bottling 150 litre

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O U R LO N G TE R M PL A N S A R E TO H AV E G ER G RU M PY ’S G IN ED H IS BE ER ESTA BL Y NAT IO NA LL N SE D TH RO U G H LI CE S. ” PA RT N ER SH IP

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kettles and are now producing batches of 800 litres of each flavour.

How have you progressed the business from stalls at Sawtell Chilli Festival, Curry Festival and Toast Urunga - at what moment did you decide to open Grumpy’s?

Viv: Our first market stall was at Valla Beach, where we took a few cartons to trial our products; we sold out in an hour.

People kept coming back wanting more, and from this we knew we had something pretty special. We love doing food events and festivals; they’re a vital part of our business.

At events customers ask where they can get our ginger beer from again, because most events are annually; we decided retail outlets were needed and Grumpy’s Lounge, Coffs Harbour, was born.

What type of place have you created?

Describe the space, and who was the mastermind behind the design?

Steve: Grumpy’s Lounge is our flagship store, designed to showcase our products.

It’s a place where you can come and relax, sample our brews, grab take home packs or escape from the world. Wherever we are we like to create a place people like to gather,

wether it’s at home, a market stall or Grumpy’s Lounge.

And the ginger beer is non-alcoholic? What are the flavours?

Viv: All of our full-bodied ginger beers are zero alcohol and are gluten free. Our three authentic flavours are: Original, a premium ginger beer with real ginger taste; Blueberry, a unique combination of local fresh blueberries and a delicious ginger flavour; Double Shot, an aromatic blend of fresh ginger and chilli for that extra ginger taste, my personal favourite.

What goes well with ginger beer?

We’ve tried everything! In Grumpy’s Lounge we blend ginger beer with ice cream, slow drip coffee, rooibos tea, fruit and aromatic spices, for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Your packaging is very unique; who came up with the branding?

Steve: We work really hard on presentation; our packaging needed to be both exciting and sustainable. We hand build our timber crates and stencil every bag and box. When we first made our timber crates, we couldn't get the size right, so our first batch fitted only 11

bottles - so the 12th got put in upside down.

Our customers loved it! It personalised the experience. We offer a discount when our packaging is returned for a refill and love hearing stories of how our bags are being reused as school lunch bags, planters and even handbags.

Where do you hope to grow the business in the next twelve months ... three years ... five years?

Steve and Viv: We’re so excited with the future of Grumpy’s Ginger Beer. In three years we have won product and marketing awards and boast a huge following throughout Australia. Grumpy’s Lounge, Coffs Harbour, is now established and we’re ready to develop further the retail store concept. We’re currently looking at areas on the Mid North Coast and into the New England for immediate expansion. Our long-term plans are to have Grumpy’s Ginger Beer established nationally through licensed partnerships. Regions will be sold and micro managed by empowering local people to grow their own regions and enjoy the benefits of this rapidly expanding growth industry. Ultimately we’d love to export to share our authentic brews and passion with the world!

Grumpy’s Lounge Shop 25, Cinema Walk Arcade, 11 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour.

@surfclubparkbeach

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#CoffsCoast

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#CoffsCoastPhotography Pure sugar explosion in my mouth hole good times! @gouldy86 and I are in pure unadulterated heaven!

@leahmoore

MAY AT Jetty theatre

Presented by International Touring Artist Services and Starr Special Events.

Be inspired, uplifted and entertained this month at Jetty Memorial Theatre.

Coming together for one exciting night, “Australian Music Royalty” Russell Morris, Wendy Matthews, Mental as Anything and Daryl Braithwaite will perform live.

Shaun Parker’s 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.

Wendy, Russell, Daryl and the Mentals are legends in the music industry with numerous #1 hits - far too many to list.

Not to mention the awards and gold and platinum albums earned by these masters of music.

This unbelievable event is a NOT TO BE MISSED date to put on your calendar.

You will need to get in quick for this very rare event and witness for yourself why these brilliant entertainers are still going strong after decades of performing to packed audiences worldwide.

Music royalty all under one roof performing iconic hit after iconic hit. Performing together on the one stage for an extravaganza finale.

ONE NIGHT STAND will have you listening to old favourites, as well as songs from both of Russell Morris’ latest albums.

His voice, music and versatility will remind you why Russell is still going strong and packing houses today.

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. Sydney Writers’ Festival, Live Event Streaming - Friday 22 Sunday 24 May In a first for Australian writers’ festivals, the Sydney Writers’ Festival 2015 will present events to regional venues via digital live-streaming. The Jetty Memorial Theatre is delighted to present an exciting programme of live events from the Festival to a Coffs Harbour audience - get up close and personal with Kate Grenville, Anthony Horowitz and Don Watson, among many other great authors and thinkers.

See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office, noon - 4pm, Tues to Fri: (02) 6652 8088.

CHMCC presents…

RAZ Music presents…

A Cole Porter musical directed by Brian Fitzsimmons

GRIGORYAN BROTHERS THIS TIME

Australia’s most respected guitar duo perform Cole Porter’s shipboard romance features elaborate disguises, some good works from their latest old-fashioned blackmail, a series of romantic entanglements and a musical release score containing many classic favourites. ‘This Time’.

Friday 8 May – Sunday 31 May

Friday 19 June • 7:30pm

@themil deliciously light and perfectly “ Apitched jokefest.” #FOCUS #Achibald2015

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ONE NIGHT STAND

@focus.mag

THE AUSTRALIAN

The Comedy Festival Roadshow is back for three riotous nights in Coffs!

Saturday 20 June 2pm & 8pm

Be prepared for untamed hilarity.

Wednesday 24, Thursday 25 & Friday 25 June 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 coffs coast focus.

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GRUMPY’s GINGER BEER Cold weather calls for small comforts, like a mug of spiced Grumpy’s Ginger Beer, to warm you up nicely. A delicious and aromatic spicy drink, perfect to make in large batches for parties.

Warm and Spicy Grumpy’s Ginger Beer Ingredients 2 bottles of Grumpy’s 2 cinnamon sticks [plus Ginger Beer extra to serve] 2 slices of fresh root ginger 1 orange, sliced 4 star anise 1 lemon, sliced Method Choose your flavour ... Original, Blueberry, Double Shot.

Pour your choice of Grumpy’s Ginger Beer into a pan, add the ginger, star anise, cinnamon sticks, sliced orange, and lemon.

Bring the contents to the boil and then a gentle simmer until the spices infuse the ginger beer.

Serve warm in glasses or mugs, each with a cinnamon stick. Enjoy!

Grumpy’s [non-alcoholic] Ginger Beer is brewed locally in three authentic flavours: Original - a premium ginger beer brewed with real ginger taste Blueberry - a unique combination of local fresh blueberries and a delicious ginger flavour Double Shot - a full bodied aromatic blend of fresh ginger and chilli.

“We’d love you to visit Grumpy’s Lounge and taste our award winning ginger beers, relax in our comfy surroundings or grab some ginger beer for the weekend with friends,” Steve and Viv from Grumpy’s Ginger Beer.

Grumpy’s Lounge in Cinema Walk Arcade, Monday - Friday, 10am ‘til 4pm.

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Tyler, Michael and Graham

Great reputation In quality After previously operating a butcher shop for 17 years in a small country town near Wagga Wagga, I saw the purchase from Graham and Anne Cowling as a perfect opportunity to permanently settle in Coffs Harbour and share my experience.

I believe in good old fashioned friendly service and offering you only the finest quality meat, including beef, poultry, pork and lamb.

We offer a boutique range of meats, including gourmet ready meals for winter months ahead. We also offer free range eggs.

So drop in and meat the friendly team, Michael, Graham and Tyler.

We have easy access, with parking also available at the rear of the shop.

Call in and pick up your Free Loyalty Rewards Card.

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

STEVE CALDER

DAVID +JAYNE

CA F F E I NE CE NTRA L

MORFISH CAFE

OWNERS DAVID AND JAYNE HAVE BUILT UP A LOYAL CLIENTELE OVER THE YEARS AT MORFISH, AND I CHATTED TO THEM ABOUT THEIR GREAT CAFÉ AT PARK BEACH PLAZA.

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hat makes Morfish so special and popular?

Our location, being right at the front entrance to the Park Beach Plaza, teamed with the ease of parking, entices people to drop in for a quick coffee or meal before shopping or a bite to eat after. Or they can even order their take away meal, and we will have it ready and waiting when they finish their shopping.

We offer comfortable, alfresco dining, enabling customers to enjoy our beautiful weather. We also use local and fresh produce.

Our vast, chef inspired menu offers great meal choices at affordable prices in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. All meals are made to order, so most dietary requirements can be catered for. Our staff are great and most have been with us since we started and they know the customers by name - even to the point where they will have their coffee ready before they have even ordered!

What is your favourite meal on the menu, and what would you recommend to people to come in and try?

For breakfast it’s a toss-up between eggs benedict with homemade hollandaise and the corn fritter stack topped with bacon and avocado. Our chef makes a sensational hollandaise! For lunch it has to be the seared Atlantic Salmon on a chargrilled vegetable stack or our famous creamy seafood chowder.

Our BBQ seafood plate is always popular, but we don’t just cater for the lovers of seafood we also do great tasting burgers, fresh salads, pastas and delicious wraps. Our entire menu is available to eat in or take away.

Everyone talks about your coffee! Please expand on this …

Our coffee, Marco Vianei by Botero, is locally roasted in Maclean. Our trained baristas have a passion for making only the finest coffee, and this results in a perfect cup every time. This also comes down to the equipment used and the pride we take in maintaining it. As we say here at Morfish, “Life is too short for bad coffee”!

What do you love about our region and owning and operating a business here?

We love the weather, the beaches and the people. Everyone is so relaxed, casual and friendly. Having come from Sydney 10 years ago, we love the fact that the beaches are only minutes away and so uncrowded. We also enjoy working in an environment where we know our customers by name. People in Coffs Harbour just love to stop and have a chat, and anyone that knows David, knows he loves nothing better than having a chat - whether it’s food, coffee, cricket or his beloved Dragons!

We have made many great friends through our business, and many have become almost part of our extended family.

Morfish, Main Entrance Park Beach Plaza.

6652 8588.

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N E W C A F É I N T H E H E A RT O F T H E C I T Y !

ell us about your background in cooking and hospitality.

I have been cooking for over 25 years. I learnt my trade in the Army, and since then I have worked in a range of establishments, from 5 star resorts to country pubs and cafés. I have been lucky enough to work in places such as Darwin, Humpty Doo, the pearl diving boats in Broome, Ballarat, Hervey Bay and many more. We moved to Coffs Harbour about 10 years ago, and I’ve worked in a few cafés, restaurants, clubs and pubs around town.

Tell us about the name Caffeine Central and why you have started the business.

The name Caffeine Central was chosen because the café is located in the “centre” of town, and we love good coffee. I had been looking to buy a business for a while, because I want to control the end-to-end results.

I have a real passion for creating quality products and delivering great customer service. That, and after 25 years in hospitality, my wife wanted to know what I looked like after working nights and weekends for so long.

What is on the menu? What are you gaining a reputation for?

I have a dynamic menu offering a range of breakfast options, including eggs benedict with homemade hollandaise as well as delicious wraps, burgers, sandwiches, seafood baskets, and we make a mean quiche! Our special board changes daily. There is also a range of homemade cakes, biscuits and cheesecake. All menu items are available from 6:30am until 3pm and can be dine in or take away.

The menu does not hamstring me. If you want it and we have the ingredients, you can have it. If you feel like a beef burger

for breakfast or an egg and bacon roll at lunchtime, you can have it. I also create special meals for our special clientele. Recently a customer was telling me he had a hankering for a hotdog. A couple of days later, he sat down to lunch with a two-foot long hotdog.

If you’re not sure what you want, I’ll make you something I’m sure you’ll enjoy.

Be wary when I ask if you like hot and spicy, because I make my own chilli sauce and relish.

Depending on which of my plants is bearing fruit, it can be mild and spicy or punishing hot.

We offer people a comfortable and relaxed environment. Our customers sit in the heart of the city and have a coffee and cake or a meal and relax and watch the people go by. Apart from myself, there are two talented ladies who make fabulous coffee. We are always laughing and joking with our customers and enjoying the sights in the centre of town.

If you’re time poor, our service is fast and the meals are produced quickly. You can always text or ring your order through, and it will be ready for you.

I am guessing by the name that you have fantastic coffee - tell us more.

We have Gusto coffee. It’s smooth and creamy with a delicious cocoa aftertaste. The branding with this coffee blend is vibrant and colourful, as are the cups and mugs. We were really drawn to this fun loving aspect of the imagery: it doesn’t take itself too seriously and is not pretentious. It matches our philosophy. Life’s short. Live life with Gusto.

Caffeine Central, 64 Harbour Drive, City Square, Opposite Specsavers, Coffs Harbour.

0418 665 620. coffs coast focus.

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focus

GIRLS DAY OUT PANAMA FEDORA HAT IN IVORY RIVIERA TOP SHOPPE WOOLGOOLGA

AUDREY BLACK WALLET LILY & SAPPHIRE • $89.95

EMBOSSED FOLDOVER SUEDE SLING BAG SPORTSGIRL • $59.95 LOAFERS VANISHING ELEPHANT UPTOWN LOCAL

WOMEN’S STRAP WATCH • TARGET • $25

OPI • BLACK ONYX PRADA - SELECTED RANGE • BRIGHT EYES

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@shute_1

Langlands Property Offering a six star service, Langlands Property want the process of buying and selling to be the celebration it should be. No excuses, just results.

We are excited to have shaped an organisation that excels at every level, continually reinventing ourselves to find better ways to achieve our clients’ goals. We are committed to being recognised as “The Coffs Coast’s most customer-centric real estate company” and will accept nothing less. Langlands Property is known for quality marketing and effective sales strategies that recognise the importance of understanding both online and print marketing.

Through the use of technology and good old fashioned customer service, we will maximise your results while continuing to offer an outstanding experience.

Proud to sell a full range of properties, from modest apartments to prestige homes, with every property receiving the same high level attention as we strive to achieve the very best price.

Amanda Langlands, our founder, is a Coffs Coast local who wants to share her love for the region through real estate. In the establishment of Langlands Property, Amanda and her team have the opportunity to showcase properties, look after clients’ investments and also share what Coffs Coast has to offer.

#BluesFest2015

@love.evieloves #cheese

@love.evieloves #CHEESE

@marriedbysam

#BluesFest2015

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coffs coast focus.

47

focusinterview.

SHOWGROUND

ART GALLERY

COFFS HARBOUR CREATIVE ARTS GROUP IS A COMMUNITY RUN ARTS GROUP WORKING OUT OF THE GALLERY SPACE AT THE COFFS HARBOUR SHOWGROUND.

W

hat is this history of the space and how many members are involved today?

The Showground Gallery celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. From humble beginnings, the group now boasts a membership of over 130 who regularly enjoy classes, specific workshops and social days in the gallery workshop, which is a warm inviting space used almost every day of the week as well as weekends.

The exhibition space also doubles as an arts training facility. What courses are available?

Are they expensive, and how long do they typically run for?

The Gallery membership is diverse, with art classes in various mediums, spinners and weavers, calligraphers and photography classes meeting either weekly or monthly; it’s a busy place.

Second term classes begin 20th April with Watercolours, Acrylics and Drawing for Beginners. Workshops include Paper Maché, Hebel, Pastels in September, Printing without a Press, Oils, and Creative Writing (TBA). The tutors for these workshops offer a wide background of experience. We are happy to run workshops of all descriptions if we have enough interest.

Members join annually ($25) to enjoy social painting, enrol in as many classes and workshops as they wish to, at a reasonable cost. Classes are usually two to three hours, run for up to eight weeks, varying from $75 to $100 per term, or casually $15 - $20 per session. Workshops are open to the general public, but are costlier.

Social spinners and weavers meet on Wednesdays, social painters on Fridays and Calligraphers meet 2nd Saturday of each month.

These are full days and members usually bring

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their lunch. Photography classes are held weekly; however, during the winter months they are out on field trips. Classes resume the last term.

Youth Art Week takes over during the April school holidays. This year they included Acrylic Painting, Silk Scarf Painting and Funky Lettering, all of which were very successful.

You’ve recently had your open day; please expand on this ...

What a wonderful day. Local radio 2airfm, which we sponsor, out-did themselves with live music playing throughout the morning as well as their BBQ team cooking on the front lawn.

They created a lot of great vibes for the many people who came through our doors. Tutors demonstrating, our youngest member scribing bookmarks, spinners chatting - it was a highly successful day.

What’s in the pipeline for the next twelve months?

The Mountain to the Sea Watercolours Exhibition opened on the 10th April until 11th May - a beautiful exhibition and is well worth a visit.

The Group Steward are Stewards of the Fine Arts section (16) of the Coffs Harbour Show 16th - 17th May. This year we have obtained three great local sponsors: Sawtell Framing, Australian Hearing, and Art Supply Emporium, bringing the prize money up considerably. It is open to everyone, and we urge all local artists to enter.

As well as term classes and workshops, we have two Members Exhibitions. The first is WINTERFEST, opening Sunday 7th June at noon. Individual members Maggy Hayne, Ken Pay, and Calligraphers will exhibit before our second Members Exhibition, LONG HOT SUMMER, opens Friday 4th December, running until the end of January 2016.

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49

HEALTH with Lauren Vesty from Living Doll.

By CHC Medical

FLU SHOT

Contracting influenza impacts on not only yourself, but think about the impacts on the wider community.

A healthy, middle-aged adult might miss a week of work if they contract “the flu”. They may experience some nasty symptoms as well, with a full recovery taking up to a few weeks!

But if that person has passed on the virus to someone at risk, then real problems can occur. Did they visit their elderly mother for lunch a few days ago? Did they just get back from meeting their beautiful newborn niece or nephew before the symptoms hit? What about their friend that cannot receive the

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vaccine due to illness or allergy?

By vaccinating you are protecting yourself, as well as the people close to you. The vaccine is safe, and effective. Protect yourself and loved ones from the flu this winter with a free 2015 flu vaccination from CHC Medical. All patients are individually assessed by a CHC Medical Doctor and the vaccine administered by an experience registered nurse.

Book online today: www.chcmedical.com.au/book-online/ Or call: 6652 2448.

STYLE COUNCIL WITH LIVING DOLL PREMIER STYLIST

MAY IS MUMMY MAKEOVER MONTH! Now that you’re a mum, you probably realistic. How much time will you have spend a lot less time on your hair than to style every day? What is your “go to” you did pre-baby. Let’s face it: some days look? Luckily for new mums (and us lazy just five free minutes to wash your hair ladies) deconstructed style is very in. If you in the shower is worth celebrating. But rock a bun or ponytail every day because being a mum doesn’t mean that you you’re time poor, a short haircut might must resign yourself to an endless string actually be more of a hindrance than help. of bad hair days. Living Doll is Lastly, let’s talk colour. Used to a here to teach you how to six-week highlight routine? care for your neglected Consider a base adjustment hair post baby, give to soften those dreaded Remember that you some advice roots. It is less time any decision on how to have consuming and eep you make in a sl e on is the hair you are tends to look more e at st ed iv depr t ub do after without the natural. Have a no ill w u yo tle maintenance, new baby and regret , so do a lit re fo and most the dreaded fine bit of research be u yo you decide that important of all, hair that comes t cut absolutely mus how to get you with it? Consider a your hair.” back to feeling like dark, glossy colour to the beautiful, sexy improve condition, add woman that you are. shine and give it the illusion First of all we need to talk of thickness. about your expectations, and your Making women feel beautiful is limitations! our passion. We want you to feel like Remember that any decision you the very best version of yourself. And make in a sleep deprived state is one what better time than Mother’s Day? you will no doubt regret, so do a little bit Come and see the premier stylists at of research before you decide that you Living Doll this May for a makeover, and absolutely must cut your hair. Our job is to we will help you find your inner Goddess. make you feel good and help to manage Dolls, your expectations when it comes to a 2/360 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW radical change.

2450.

When it comes to maintenance, be 6699 2122.

“

bellingen healing centre Bellingen Healing Centre is an Accredited General Practice, established 23 years, with an emphasis on preventative and holistic medical care.

Health is a journey with your practitioner to well-being, asking the question “why is this illness or dis-ease present in this person?” The Practitioner integrates orthodox medicine and complimentary therapies to treat the disease and prevent further illness.

Our practice consultations include women’s, men’s and adolescent health, immunisations, travel medicine advice, vaccinations, skin checks, wound care, aged care, mental health plans, naturopathic consultations, nutritional advice, vitamin and mineral supplementation, chelation and intravenous vitamin therapies, herbal medicine, bio-balance and counselling.

We also provide Visiting Medical Officer services to Bellinger River and District Hospital and Bellorana Aged Care Facility.

Our practice of Bio-balance, which is a natural treatment system based on current science, recognises most human beings have nutrient imbalances due to genetic and environmental factors that can cause health problems. Through blood and other testing, the balances can be addressed and more optimum health outcomes achieved. It is particularly applicable to anxiety, depression and other mental disorders. It can help minimise the use of orthodox drug medicines.

Dr Alan Burrow Optometrist Park Beach Dental Surgery Hi, I’m Dr KenOn Chan BDS MFDS(Glas) and I’m the newest member of the Park Beach Dental team. Born in Scotland, I’ve relocated to Coffs Harbour to enjoy the famous Aussie hospitality, the gorgeous beaches and something I’ve heard called the “Sun”.

I’ve worked in Oral Maxillofacial hospital departments, carried out treatment with specialist consultants, co-authored papers, attained membership to the royal college of surgeons amongst other technically impressive things, but the most important thing you need to know is that we, as a practice, are ethical conservative dentists. This means my priority is to keep your mouth as healthy as possible, so you need as little invasive treatment as possible. Unfortunately, this does lead to some questioning when you see me, but nothing is as good as your natural tooth, so we do our best to help you keep them as pristine as possible; this may unfortunately mean you have some extra work to do at home.

We always endeavour to do things at the patient’s pace, and only after they have been fully informed of all their options do we proceed with anything. As I always say, it’s your mouth and your teeth, so you’re always in control.

Ken.

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

While the original versions of progressive lenses had limited success due to poor quality of vision, today’s sophisticated designs are widely used to restore vision in those over the age of forty.

Hoya has been at the forefront of this technology, which provides excellent vision and comfort. Their designs include a wide range of options to suit individual needs, different lifestyles, optical prescriptions, visual tasks, the work environment and both indoor and outdoor activities. Achieving optimal visual performance also requires the prescriber to have an in-depth knowledge to match designs to individual needs.

The suitability of the frame style, the way it fits the face, as well as previous and current prescriptions all have a bearing on the final lens design.

We have prescribed Hoya lenses for many years because of their consistent precision of manufacture, which matches our commitment to the highest standards of optical dispensing.

The overall goal is to provide patients with the clearest, most comfortable and natural vision possible. To view the full range of Hoya lenses, visit alanburrow.com.au, click on lenses and then on Hoya.

coffs coast focus.

51

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

EATINGDISORDER •AWARENESS• Kyla Holley and her team run and operate a small business in Coffs Harbour that do big things! The Australian Centre for Eating Disorders has a vision to create a high quality standard of professional knowledge in the treatment of eating disorders in Australia, making it safer for sufferers and their families to access effective support.

VICKY LO

INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

24-year-old passionate Accredited exercise physiologist and new Coffs Harbour resident.

Thank-you for such a positive response to last month’s story about the vivacious Vanessa.This month we are catching up with healthcare professional Vicky Lo on her Medical Fitness passion, to hear her inspiring story.

T

ell us a bit about your background, Vicky?

I am an Accredited exercise physiologist, having graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science degree. After studying in Hong Kong, I moved to Australia to continue my study in the clinical area, where I believe that I can bring the most health benefits to people. Before moving to Australia, I was a very passionate gymnast, and I also enjoyed participating in yoga. I have found Coffs Harbour to be a lovely place to live and found people to be very helpful and friendly. I am looking to further develop my professional skills here, whilst also helping to improve the health and well being of those in the community who seek my support.

Can you please explain what an Exercise Physiologist does?

An Accredited exercise physiologist (AEP) is an allied health professional who holds a four-year university degree in the area of clinical Exercise Physiology and is an accredited Member of Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). We specialise in individualised clinical exercise interventions for a wide range of pathological populations who are at high risk of developing, or have existing medical injuries and conditions. These include cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, metabolic, neurological and ageing associated conditions that we have competencies treating. The aims of exercise interventions are to manage or prevent chronic disease or injury through education and lifestyle modification. We provide people with exercise programmes and assist in the implementation of these programmes to obtain gradual restoration to optimal physical function, health and wellness.

What types of clients do you specialise in working with?

As a health professional, I specialise in a broad range of conditions. The conditions or injuries 52 coffs coast focus.

that I implement care plans for are rehabilitation, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and lower back pain. I am personally interested in musculoskeletal conditions: assisting clients in regaining their normal motor pattern through analysing their gait, posture and related muscle imbalance is specifically an enjoyable challenge.

Do you only work one on one with clients, or do you work with small groups too?

I work both one on one with clients as well as small groups. Clients obtain higher level of supervision in a one on one session; therefore, it is highly recommended for clients with complex conditions or acute injury - while a group session is more socially beneficial. Starting exercise in a one on one or group session predominately depends on health condition, fitness level and preference of clients.

So how can we all benefit from your new Coffs Coast MedFit concept?

Coffs Coast Medfit is all about changing the traditional method of accessing healthcare where we hunt around to find the right health professional to address our needs. Instead, we have brought them all together under one roof to ensure the best care for every client, every time. It is a one stop shop for people who need to improve their health and fitness through the collaboration between physiotherapy, exercise physiology, personal training, massage therapy and weight loss coaching. It means that people will be able to move between health professionals seamlessly, making it easy to access the skills and knowledge of every member of the health care team to get better results sooner. I truly believe this is the future of healthcare, and I’m certain that clients will definitely enjoy the convenient experience.

Thanks for sharing, Vicky, and if you are looking to kick-start your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see Vicky and the Coffs Coast MedFit team at Coffs Coast Health Club.

T

he team travel across Australia to offer intensive training to health professionals in how to recognise and treat all eating disorders.

This is important work, as one million Australians are living with an eating disorder and so many go unnoticed until the illness is having a major negative impact and causing other symptoms. Anorexia Nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness, with one in four sufferers dying as a result.

What is your background, and when did you first arrive in Coffs Harbour?

I grew up in the UK and migrated to Australia with my family in 1998. We spent ten years living in Perth, and then moved to Coffs Harbour at the end of 2007. My background was mainly in theatre, and whilst my children were young I taught drama, and ran a theatre company in Perth. I always had an interest in psychology and started taking a degree at Curtin University in Perth. I quickly realised that my interest was more specifically in counselling, rather than the broader subject of psychology. So when we moved to Coffs Harbour, I changed my study path and developed an interest in eating disorders. We all have a relationship with food, and I find it fascinating how that relationship can affect so many other areas of our lives.

Your work is very serious; what categories fall into the eating disorder spectrum?

The eating disorders that most people have heard of are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and binge eating disorder, but there are many people who have disordered eating and don’t fit neatly into any of the standard diagnosable disorders. There are also a few lesser known eating disorders such as Orthorexia, night eating disorder and Pica.

How does what you do help health providers?

We are dedicated to training health practitioners in the skills and techniques required to successfully assess and manage eating disorders, and to build

a nationwide network of dedicated, qualified health professionals, making it safer and easier for sufferers to access effective support.

We hope our website at www.acfed.com.au will become a resource for the one million Australians who are living with an eating disorder, to be able to find a health professional local to them who has the right knowledge and skills. We anticipate that GPs and other specialists will also use our network to refer patients who need more focused attention.

What does a course entail, and what is your formal training?

We offer three different courses that cover all the major areas of treatment when dealing with eating disorders. Our six-day course concentrates on the essential skills and knowledge required to successfully assess and treat the whole range of eating disorders. We also offer three day courses, which cover psychological approaches to obesity and nutritional interventions for eating disorders.

I am the trainer for the eating disorder and obesity courses, and we have Lauren Stephens who is an accredited practicing dietitian to teach our nutritional courses.

We are both supported by Allison Davidson, our business manager, who has a great marketing and finance brain.

I have a Bachelor of Counselling and have been to the UK to obtain a Diploma in Eating Disorders. I also have practical eating disorder experience with nearly 200 patients in Coffs Harbour.

Who would benefit from your services?

At the moment we are concentrating our efforts on the training side of our business and establishing our practitioner network. Our courses would benefit any health professional who is likely to encounter eating disorders in the course of their work.

That could include, but is not limited to, GPs, psychologists, counsellors, social workers, mental health nurses and dieticians.

Call Kyla and the team for a confidential chat.

6652 8554.

Ultimate Mother’s day present Searching for the ultimate Mother’s Day present for the new Mother-to-be?

Pregnancy is a special time; as your baby grows and develops, it can sometimes be hard to understand the changes that are occurring. 3D imaging allows you and your family the perfect opportunity to see your baby in a memorable and unique way.

WHAT IS A 3D ULTRASOUND? Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to visualise structures within the body. A 3D scan is different from the standard 2D scanning mode, as waves are bounced through in angles; the returning echoes are processed by a very sophisticated computer that reconstructs those images into the 3D pictures you will see on the screen.

3D images allow you a clearer view of your baby, and features such as eyes, mouth, fingers and toes can be easily identified. On the screen you will also be able to see your baby moving in real time (4D) perhaps catching a smile, yawn,

stretch or even sucking their thumb.

3D PREGNANCY PACKAGE INCLUSIONS * A scan of at least 15 minutes * A CD with a copy of all the 3D images captured during your scan * High quality prints of the best couple of images * The best image sent via MMS to your compatible phone for immediate viewing and sharing * All presented in a keep safe pack to ensure photos remain in perfect condition while you transport them home.

Beachside Radiology offers 3D Imaging Packages for pregnancy that do not require a referral form to attend. The optimum time for a 3D scan is between the 26th and 34th week of pregnancy.

Gift vouchers for single or multiple pregnancies are available by contacting the practice.

The team at Beachside Radiology would like to wish all mothers and future mothers a wonderful Mother’s Day.

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.

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.

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53

Enhancing all bodies’ abilities

PHYSABILITY JO MAGILL JO MAGILL IS AN EXPERIENCED MENTAL HEALTH WORKER AS WELL AS THE BRAINS BEHIND PHYSABILITY - A PROGRAMME SHE HAS DEVISED FOR ANYONE INTERESTED , INCLUDING PROFESSIONALS, IN KNOWING HOW TO APPLY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR BODIES OF ALL ABILITIES. Jo, you have personal experience behind this programme, which also motivates this passion in you. Tell us more about your background.

In my travels, both personally as a mother of a growing child with a disability and professionally in the mental health and disability sectors, I have witnessed a variety of barriers that were preventing a majority with disabilities from engaging in any form of physical activities ... adolescents transitioning from home to supported living environments, ageing parents not having the physical capacity to assist their grown children participate in local sport or recreational activities and those whose own lifestyles were sedentary and opportunities not passed on to those in their care. There are some wonderful programmes that assist people with disabilities to reach the pinnacle of sporting prowess as elite athletes, but what about for

54 coffs coast focus.

everyday applications? As with many things in life, it’s often a case of not knowing what you don’t know ‘til you find a need to know.

Not every activity is immediately adaptable and neither is every body, but by thinking through a process as to why not, it often becomes clearer as to why you can.

What is this PhysAbility programme, and who can apply to learn?

PhysAbility is designed for personal trainers, fitness industry professionals - in fact, anyone who has a passion for health and fitness, who works with or wants to learn more about disabilities and how to overcome some of the barriers faced.

PhysAbility is not an exhaustive document, but one that intends to bring health and fitness professionals, sporting clubs and groups, people with all types of disabilities to a starting point where a common language can be used to form

partnerships that may last a lifetime ... an active lifetime.

How does connectABLE & Community Care Options tie in with you?

Teaming with Community Care Options, a second workshop is planned specifically aimed towards assisting sporting, social and recreational clubs who are partners in their connectABLE programme, to develop inclusive practices that work best for their individual organisations. Please contact Kate Warner on 6650 2000 for more information or go to their website www.cco.net.au or and save the date, which is 25th July 2015.

When is your workshop, and what costs are involved? Is there a manual?

The first workshop will take place on 30th May commencing at 9:30am at Sawtell Surf Lifesaving Club for a full day of training covering theory and practical applications,

networking, hard copy manual and lunch at a cost of $80- pp. Co writer of PhysAbility Vicki Tilott, a local OT with passion and extensive experience within the fitness industry, will lead discussion groups around case studies that participants can easily relate to.

What will people take away with them after this day with you?

Tips and techniques for working with various populations, communication, adaptive techniques, equipment but most of all, they will leave without the fear and greater confidence of working with people with a disability. Maybe even the capacity to grow their business ...

How can people find out more? https://physabilitynsw.wordpress.com Facebook: PhysAbility Jo Magill 0401975364 Or for connectAble Kate Warner 6650 2000

Better COLOUR In the salon we use KEUNE colour, which is naturally translucent and more suited to use here on the coast, as the harsh beach elements just destroy heavy colour. It gives your hair a fabulous natural brightness, with a softer regrowth line, and shine you won’t believe.

So, in saying that, I strongly emphasise the use of QUALITY shampoo and conditioner at home that will not strip out all that gorgeous colour (that you have just paid good money for), so it holds, seals and lasts longer.

Here at Robina’s we use and retail the new PURE, shampoo and conditioner range called “COLOUR ANGEL”, with organic extracts, and it is sulphate and paraben free. This beautiful product defends against colour fade caused by harmful UV rays as well as thermal heat and constant shampooing - a must to have at home if you have coloured hair. It saddens me when I see such dry over processed and frizzy hair these days, when there are such wonderful products available to remedy this.

Our pricing is reasonable and fair, so let’s all have great hair.

The team here at Robina’s take pride in our exceptional service, professionalism and care, and would like to offer you $5 off the COLOUR ANGEL products with the presentation of this ad; we really want you to try this amazing product.

Looking forward to seeing you in the salon soon, for your free consultation!

MOORE RELATIONSHIPS Are Anxiety and Depression on the increase?

The short answer is - yes. The long and more complex answer is why? It appears to be interplay between increased diagnosis and also increased life challenges in our complex modern world.

What can make the problem worse is not so much the anxiety, but the anxiety about the anxiety. It is those darned annoying secondary emotions that can make it all just too hard to bear. The fear that we “should” be feeling just fine - but we are not. We are struggling. This is all too human and all too understandable.

Coming along to a therapist can be a way to talk about those challenges with someone who will listen but still see “you” - still see that brave person who is working at being the best they can in spite of the difficulties. As well as that, there are some therapeutic techniques that really can help you manage those difficult feelings and thoughts more productively.

I believe in a strength based approach - helping you see your strengths as a way to make some positive changes.

All you need to do is go and see your doctor to get a referral. It is quite straightforward, and everybody is entitled to 10 Medicare sessions a year. Also, most private health insurers give refunds for those who would like to see me privately. Everybody needs a little help sometimes.

Eileen Moore (Psychologist) B.Ap.Sc.H’Ed; P.Grad.Dip. Psych www.moorerelationships.com.au Mobile: 0413 199 218 Email: moorerelationships@gmail.com

CoffsHarbour HarbourPODIATRY PODIATRY Coffs Whatcauses causesHeel HeelPain?

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This may involve proper shoes, and orthotics.

For condition. This may involve proper shoes, and orthotics. For the stubborn chronic cases, other therapies may be needed, the stubborn chronic cases, other therapies may be needed, likenight nightsplints, splints,laser/ultrasound laser/ultrasoundtherapy, therapy,Cortisone Cortisoneinjecinjeclike tions, and in rare cases, surgery. tions, and in rare cases, surgery.

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Local Physio

GETS BETTER RESULTS MID NORTH COAST PHYSIO IS ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS IN THE REGION. OWNED AND MANAGED BY LEADING LOCAL PHYSIOTHERAPIST AARON HARDAKER, THE BUSINESS NOW HAS LOCATIONS IN WOOLGOOLGA, URUNGA AND TOORMINA AND IS BECOMING A ONE STOP SHOP FOR HEALTH SERVICES AROUND THE COFFS COAST.

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56 coffs coast focus.

As a born and bred local, what do you love most about the Coffs Coast?

I love the beaches, the climate and the relaxed lifestyle, as well as the friendly people. I couldn’t really picture myself living anywhere else now - I think we have just about everything you need on the Coffs Coast. Mid North Coast Physio actually started out of frustration with locals having to travel too far to get great healthcare - I wanted to make sure that this was no longer the case. This has been a real focus for us since I started the business.

However, being a business owner has been trumped, as I now hold the much more important roles of husband, and father of two gorgeous little girls!

What makes Mid North Coast Physio different to other healthcare providers?

This can be best answered by looking at our mission statement and the rules we work by at MNC Physio - but here are a couple of the key differences: • One stop shop - Our aim is to make accessing healthcare easy, which has lead us to incorporating a range of allied health services into our practices. Across our locations we are able to provide physiotherapy, exercise physiology, massage, hydrotherapy, Pilates, yoga, orthotic

prescription, audiology services, personal training, weight loss coaching and health club membership.

• Money back Guarantee - We also want to make sure our clients get everything they need from us, which is why we’re the only health provider in the region to offer a money back guarantee for our services - if our clients aren’t happy, then we’re not happy.

• Free Injury Pre-assessment - Another major difference is we understand it can be daunting when choosing a healthcare professional - are they any good? Will they know what’s wrong? Will they be able to help? Are they caring and friendly? To make people’s experience with us totally risk free - we offer a free assessment opportunity to all prospective clients, so they can try our services and see for themselves.

• Save Time and Reduce Stress - With three locations across the Coffs Coast area, Woolgoolga, Urunga and Toormina, it saves people having to travel too far to see us. We also run on time, every time, and don’t double book, which ensures each client gets the total focus of their therapist during their consult time.

What stops people from seeking treatment from a qualified health professional?

There are two main reasons that keep people from getting their injury or problem treated appropriately. The first is not knowing who to see - which health professional is the right one to deal with their specific problem? That’s not an issue at Mid North Coast Physio, as we have a team of different health professionals to cover all bases. The second thing is usually the risk involved in trying someone new people don’t want to spend hard earned dollars, only to be disappointed with the service or outcome. That’s why we introduced our free assessments and money back guarantee on services to take away the risk. I saw a client recently who’d had back pain for two years after pregnancy and felt she had tried everything - she came to us purely because she got given a free assessment voucher from a friend.

She is now pain free and loving her new Pilates programme and is ready to face pregnancy again - her second baby is due later this year. That’s why we love what we do!

To secure your FREE assessment voucher and appointment, contact the Mid North Coast Physio team on their central booking number now by calling 1300 273 747.

BLEPHAROPTOSIS (DROOPY UPPER EYELIDS)

“ My eyes feel tired after I read for a while and I cannot keep them open by the end of the day� is a common complaint in some patients.

P

atients tend to consult their doctor, wondering if they need cataract surgery.

However the problem is often due to Blepharoptosis or drooping of the upper

eyelids.

The eyelids have two major groups of muscles,

The main cause of the problem is a stretching of the muscle which draws up the upper eyelids like a curtain. In addition, the attachment of the muscle to the eyelid is also frayed. Corrective surgery, ie. Ptosis Surgery, involves shortening and reattaching the muscle. In addition, excess upper eyelid skin, muscle

those that close the eye and those that open the

and fat is removed (upper blepharoplasty surgery), all

eye. While closing the eye is usually a voluntary act,

of which makes the eyelid lighter and hence easier for

opening of the eye is almost automatic, ie. one does

the eyelid to be maintained in a good position. The

not consciously open the eyes as the upper eyelids

furrows in the forehead will decrease as the forehead

stay elevated to permit one to see out of both eyes.

muscle no longer needs to work overtime doing the

Blepharoptosis can be congenital (a birth defect), but

work of the eyelid lifting muscle.

more commonly, is due to ageing. In some patients,

Commonly, the problem involves both sides and

the problem is seen in their thirties and forties, but

surgery is done on both sides simultaneously or one

more commonly is seen in patients who are older.

after the other, with the worse side done first.

coffs coast focus.

57

BACK IN THE Conversation WITH SHIRLEY BOOTH

This great-grandmother from Arrawarra has embraced new technology that means she no longer has to suffer in silence – and she “gets cross” if others don’t follow suit!

“I think people who have perfectly good hearing aids and don’t wear them are real fools!” exclaims Shirley Booth.

“You would be surprised how many people just leave their aids in the drawer - then keep asking, ‘What did you say?’ I get cross with that attitude - so silly.”

Although our hearing naturally diminishes as we age, Shirley’s hearing loss developed due to exposure to industrial noise during her working life, in an era before hearing protection.

“My hearing problem started after working in print factories. We didn’t know about wearing earplugs or earmuffs back then.

“I got my first hearing aids 30 years ago. I had older hearing aids for years, but these new ones are different technology. They suited me straight away.

“I’ve only had my new hearing aids for a short time, and no-one’s getting them off me now!”

As a pensioner, Shirley was eligible to receive government-funded hearing services from Aus-

58 coffs coast focus.

tralian Hearing in Coffs Harbour and opted for hearing aids of the latest technology.

“It’s absolutely brilliant! I can’t believe it,” says Shirley, having to point out the small devices behind her ears, as they are barely visible.

“You can hardly see them! I’m a little vain, so it’s great they aren’t noticeable.”

“It didn’t take me any time at all to get used to them. They are easy to put in, and the only time I’ve had them out of my ears is when I’m in the shower or in bed.”

Shirley is not the only one who has reaped the benefits of the new hearing technology.

“We don’t fight anymore!” says Shirley’s husband, Jim, who admits their relationship has improved without the daily strain of hearing difficulties. Simple things like the TV blaring too loud and not being able to share conversations with others easily.

“Before, Shirley wouldn’t always catch what people would say, but she does now,” adds Jim. “Yes, other people have also noticed that I can

hear much better,” agrees Shirley.

“I pick-up everything now. I’m not always asking ‘I beg your pardon?’

“When playing golf, bowls and down at the CWA, I can hear what’s being said and I don’t miss out anymore.

“We have twelve grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren but they are all in Melbourne, so we can only talk over the phone.

The aids make a difference when keeping in touch with the family on the phone.”

With Mother’s Day just around the corner,

Australian Hearing want to remind us that good hearing is fundamental to good relationships.

Unfortunately, hearing difficulties which naturally develop as we age can lead to breakdowns in communication, straining our relationships with loved ones. There’s no better reason to do something about your hearing than enjoying a closer connection with your family.

Australian Hearing provide free hearing checks to the community and government-funded hearing services to eligible people.

Call 6652 0700 or visit www.hearing.com.au

focusinterview.

Baringa Rehabilitation

BRONWYN HAWKINS PHYSIOTHERAPIST

We’ll Get You Moving

T

ell me about yourself? I grew up in Tasmania, then moved to Albury to study a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Charles Sturt University before returning to Tasmania for work. I relocated to the beautiful Coffs Coast last year and absolutely love it. I chose physiotherapy as a career after my father suffered a stroke at a relatively young age. Seeing him participate in rehabilitation both in and out of hospital opened my eyes to the significant role that physiotherapists and other allied health professionals play in helping people to achieve their goals after injury or illness, from the day to day basics like being able to stand in the kitchen to prepare a meal to longer-term goals such as return to work, or swim at the beach with family.

What areas of Physiotherapy have you worked in? After graduating, I worked in a private practice in Devonport, Tasmania, for eighteen months. This job involved treating clients for a range of musculoskeletal issues, including sports injuries, as well as working once a week in a local aged care facility to help maintain the mobility and safety of residents.

I have spent the past year working at Baringa Private Hospital treating in-patients with various conditions on the rehabilitation ward, helping them to improve their strength, balance, mobility and thus overall quality of life. I now work for Baringa Rehabilitation treating people with musculoskeletal injuries as well as facilitating the physiotherapy component of the out-patient Day Rehabilitation and enjoy Neurological Rehabilitation.

What is the most rewarding aspect of Physiotherapy? I am passionate about assisting people to achieve their goals and improve their overall function, so they can live as independently as possible. Neurological rehabilitation works on the phenomenon of “neuroplasticity”, which in a nutshell means the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new nerve connections in response to new or changed situations and environments. For example,

KATHY WARD

PHYSIOTHERAPIST

I after a stroke the nerve connections between a person’s brain and one or more body parts (e.g. hand) can become disorganised or disrupted, causing reduced strength and impaired movement patterns. Through repeated, regular exercise (e.g. working on grip strength using graded pegs) the nerve pathways between the affected hand and the brain can be strengthened, thus improving the person’s muscle strength, quality of movement and overall function (improving their ability to hang washing on the line).

What Physiotherapy does Baringa Rehab offer? Baringa Rehab physiotherapy offers treatment for musculoskeletal injuries including sports injuries, core stability classes, general strength and conditioning classes, hydrotherapy, chronic pain management programme, women’s health treatment and work-related injuries. Physiotherapy also plays a key role in the Day Rehabilitation groups, each a six week programme aimed at those living at home or recently discharged from hospital that wish to improve their strength, balance, and mobility, thus maintaining their independence at home.

The groups involve attending two days of therapy per week in which the patient sets, then works towards achieving, personal goals by completing an individualised exercise programme with guidance from a physiotherapist, occupational therapist and a speech therapist as well as group-based activities. If you would like to know more about the groups, contact Daniel Rake at Baringa Rehab on (02) 6658 0322.

grew up in a large close knit family on the south east coast of South Africa and graduated with BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy degree from the University of Cape Town in 1982. As a new grad I rotated through all the departments of the very large Provincial Hospital, especially enjoying Orthopaedics and 2006, enticed by the Physiotherapy Neuro. I then worked ntinually co is balmy weather, wonderin a Private Practice l for loping ; it is vita ve de ful churches, excellent and did post grad date me to keep up to my schools, outdoor lifestyle studies in Sports and at and ahead so th ity to and Specialist Practice un Musculoskeletal Physpatients’ opport ed .” opportunities for my is im ax iotherapy. I was also recover is m husband, Harvey. honoured to be asked to present a research paWorking as Senior Outpaper at the World Congress tient Physiotherapist at Baringa of Physiotherapy (WCPT) in Rehab and Physio has been stimWashington, DC 1995. ulating and fulfilling. I was drawn to

“

Harvey and I have been married 30 years and have three wonderful children. We love travel and worked in Canada and the UK and then returned to SA, where I ran my own private practice for 12 years in Port Elizabeth and Cape Town, where I had the opportunity to work for some of the top orthopaedic and spinal surgeons.

We immigrated to Canada in 1999 with our children, where I worked for seven years, first in a hospital outpatient setting and then as co owner of a Private Physiotherapy Clinic. I have loved the opportunity Physiotherapy has provided to experience different cultures, climates (-40°C is too cold!) and the opportunity to continue with extensive post grad studies in Sports and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy in different countries.

We moved to Coffs Harbour as a family in

work at Baringa because of the excellent Gym and Hydrotherapy facilities. Working there, I have been able to offer my patients the best possible treatment with “hands on” Manual Therapy skills and I have been able to encourage them to be actively involved in their own rehab with specific exercise either on land and /or in the water. I love learning (though not fond of doing exams!) and am continually attending post grad Musculoskeletal, Sports and Women’s Health Physiotherapy courses held in Australia and overseas. Physiotherapy is continually developing; it is vital for me to keep up to date and ahead so that my patients’ opportunity to recover is maximised.

I am passionate about Physiotherapy and know that this God has called me to do; working to help patients recover and live full, meaningful, well integrated lives is an absolute privilege!

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

coffs coast focus.

59

focusinterview.

Six local women are walking 60 km in an effort to fundraise for cancer research. Their commitment to the cause is based on love for fellow women and families who have been touched by cancer. The six women are training as a team, and you may see them walking the streets in their pink shirts. Get on down to their first fundraiser at The Hoey Moey or if you come across them in our streets, please give them a honk and show your support!

60km •WA L K•

FOR CANCER RESEARCH

W

LEFT TO RIGHT: KYANNE KACHEL, NAOMI LOADER, JODIE ELLICOTT, CAROLYN PERKINS, DONNA VOGLSINGER AND TANYA SLAVIERO

hat is the Chris O’Brien Life House Cancer Research Organisation?

It is a worldclass not-for-profit integrated cancer treatment centre and is now a fully operational cancer hospital. The centre provides uncompromising care to people living with cancer, their carers and their families.

A group of six local Coffs Harbour ladies plan on walking for 60 kilometres, all in the name of cancer research? Let us introduce Tanya Slaviero, Donna Voglsinger, Carolyn Perkins, Jodie Ellicott, Naomi Loader and Kyanne Kachel. It’s women like you in our community that make the world a better place; on behalf of everyone in Coffs Harbour, thankyou! Where does your passion for cancer research derive? Have you had a personal experience? Why this particular event?

Our commitment is based on our love for our fellow sisters, mothers, grandmothers, daughters, nieces, and friends. Whilst some of us have experienced women’s cancer in our families, we are doing this based on the realisation that we each need to do our part in this fight. We can walk and we can raise funds to help in the efforts to end women's cancers. We can and choose to be a part of this movement to fight women’s cancers and are asking the Coffs Coast Community to help us.

How much money do you hope to raise locally, and what are your fundraising 60 coffs coast focus.

events?

We are all about women’s cancer, so the To be eligible to participate in the walk, pinker the better when it comes to our team each team member must raise a minimum of shirts. To be honest, we are all very anxious $2000 - that’s $12000 for our team. We have about the amount of money that must be several fundraising events planned, starting raised to be able to walk. We are all good with a “Cocktail for a Cure” party at the friends and have committed to doing this as Hoey Moey on Friday 8th May at 6:30pm. a team. $2,000 would be easier to raise than Tickets are $40 each, and this entitles you to a $12,000, but we wouldn’t have as much fun cocktail/beer, finger food, entertainment, if we had to do it alone. We know and lucky door prizes! Tickets that by the end of this journey can be purchased at the Hoey we will have raised money Moey, Blush Makeup and that will have helped Beauty Salon, Dealer save someone’s We need to be Direct or any of our mother, sister, able to walk 30 team. daughter, aunty, ing to km a day. It’s go Anyone and friend, and that in but we’re be a challenge, everyone is welcome, itself makes it fun ething ready to do som in so please come along; and rewarding. ful bold and power it will be a great night!

In Sydney, how end lp he to rt fo an ef s.”

How does one many people do er women’s canc train to walk 60 they hope will kilometres? participate in the We are all in training now walk, and how much preparing for the 60 km. Once does the overall event the cooler months come and we raise? have our team sponsored shirts, we will The event is in its third year, and they be walking longer distances in team training are expecting 1,500 walkers. Since 2013, The sessions. We need to be able to walk 30 km Weekend to End Women’s Cancers raised over a day. It’s going to be a challenge, but we’re $5.7 million for the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. ready to do something bold and powerful in If I was a business owner and I wanted to an effort to help end women’s cancers. So if support you, how could I get involved? you see us on the streets in our bright pink We are asking businesses to donate and in team shirts, give us a toot for encouragement! return we will proudly display their business We can’t miss you all in your bright pink name on our shirts that we will be wearing to tees! Are you having lots of fun along the all fundraising events, team training sessions way? and the walk. Shirt sponsorships start at $250.

“

We would also love to hear from any business that can donate gifts, vouchers, or anything that we can raffle or use as prizes. If you would like to donate to our cause, you can go to our fundraising page.

We would like to thank our major sponsors so far: The Hoey Moey, Dealer Direct, Magann O’Rourke Loader Property Valuers and Consultants, Marcus Kachel’s Transport and Subway. Our HERO sponsor is the Pink Silks Perpetual Trust; the donation that they have given us towards this cause is overwhelming, and we are so very grateful to the Pink Silks committee for giving us an amazing head start to our campaign.

This is our journey, but it’s a journey creating hope for every woman’s future.

Don’t stand back and think about what you could have done - take that first step today!

By donating to this cause, together we’re going to help change lives.

DONATE endcancer.org.au Team name: Walkie Talkies Phone: 0408 526 673 Thanks ladies.

the plug!

Cocktail for a Cure Party Fundraiser at the Hoey Moey on Friday, 8th May at 6:30pm.

Cost: $40.

Tickets: At Hoey Moey, Blush Makeup and Beauty Salon or Dealer Direct.

S P E C i a l i s t

M E D I C A L

C E N T R E

COFFS COAST DENTAL SULLIVAN NICOLAIDES PATHOLOGY At Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology, patient care starts with our dedicated front line staff.

Within the Coffs Harbour region, we employ over 50 collection, laboratory, administration and courier staff.

Our 14 collection centres are supported by a home visit service and a 24 hour on call service for all other hospital and emergency situations.

The Coffs Harbour laboratory was the first pathology laboratory in Australasia with Environmental Management Systems certification.

The SNP laboratory is an Affiliated Campus of the University of NSW School of Rural Medicine, with SNP’s medical scientists

participating in training courses for medical students under the personal tutelage of SNP’s Pathologist-in-charge, Dr Sobhana Arianayagam.

Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology is one of Australia’s largest pathology practices, with a long tradition of quality service.

We pride ourselves on our consistently high standards, and on being ethical and trustworthy.

SNP employs more than 2,400 staff, including 54 specialist pathologists.

Our laboratories provide a personalised local pathology service backed by the strength and resources of one of the largest pathology networks in Australia, Sonic Healthcare.

Our dental team Dr Juliane Siegel, Dr Mark Spencer, Dr Lin Chai and hygienist Tammy Brunet offer a full range of services from preventative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, root canal therapy, orthodontics, restorative dentistry, dental surgery and implants. We also offer our patients both nitrous oxide sedation and general anaesthetics if needed. We understand that preventing dental problems is paramount, and our philosophy is teeth for life.

Started over 35 years ago in Riding Place, Dr Juliane Siegel purchased the business in 2011. Juliane has a commitment to improving dentistry for all in Coffs Harbour, and as such made the decision to build a state of the art dental facility here in the Specialist Medical Centre to be able to take our service to the next level. We have been here since May 2013 and are loving our new surgery and what it has to offer for our patients.

We are very proud to be the first dental practice

in Coffs Harbour to achieve Accreditation.

Two years ago we introduced our one visit cerec ceramic scanner and milling unit, which enables patients to have their crowns made in one visit, no conventional impressions and no temporaries. We have also introduced our Inline microscope; this enables our practitioners to better diagnose problems and to be able to perform services you previously may have needed to see a specialist for. Our aim is to offer all our patients’ needs in one place.

We want to increase awareness of the Coffs Coast public as to the link between dental health and general health - we would like to see dentistry become more accessible. We have already improved that this year by bulk billing the Child Dental Benefit Scheme, so more kids can access good quality dental care. We are also preferred providers for Medibank Private, BUPA and HCF, so more people have access to no gap or lower gap dentistry.

coffs coast focus.

61

S P E C i a l i s t

M E D I C A L

C E N T R E

CHC MEDICAL GENERAL PRACTICE How important is flu vaccination prior to the winter weather kicking in, and why does your medical centre offer a free flu vaccine?

Remember, Influenza (the "flu") is not the same as the "common cold"!

The flu vaccine does not protect you from the common cold, as the common cold is usually caused by a different type of virus.

The flu vaccine is specific to influenza. A cold is much milder than “the flu”. A cold may make you uncomfortable with symptoms such as sore throat, cough, runny nose, headache and mild fever. By comparison, influenza can cause people to be bedridden for days to weeks with symptoms including fever and chills, headache, severe muscle aches, and fatigue that can last weeks. These can have serious implications for elderly, pregnant, children, and people with heart disease, severe asthma, chronic lung conditions, chronic illness requiring medical follow-up or hospitalisation in the past year, diseases of the nervous system, impaired immunity or diabetes.

62 coffs coast focus.

Influenza has been responsible for more preventable deaths across the world than both the first and second world wars combined, and we still have no effective treatment for it. Prevention and vaccination is the only weapon we have against the flu!

Is it a myth that once you get the flu vaccine, you automatically get the flu?

The flu vaccine does not contain any live influenza strains, meaning that it cannot reproduce and cause an infection, therefore it cannot "cause the flu". The vaccination tells your body to prepare your immune system for future "attacks" by the influenza virus. This means that if you do come in contact with the actual flu virus, the immune system is prepared and ready to fight it off, by preventing infection, limiting the duration of infection and minimising the spread to other people. The body can occasionally get "flu-like symptoms" after the vaccine, e.g. fever, sniffles, but these are generally mild and are just a sign that the body's immune response is prepared and the vaccine working.

The flu vaccine

“

you are healthy, you What drives you to n does not contai feel good, and if continue to help za any live influen at th you feel good, then ng people? ni ea m s, strain e uc od the world is a better pr re Because a healthy ot nn it ca fection, place. Look after your community is a and cause an in ot ‘cause community, exercise therefore it cann prosperous community. the flu’. ” regularly, eat a healthy A heathy community is balanced diet, bring out essential to advance our the best in the people you standard of living, enrich meet, bring a smile to the world our culture, provide economic and ensure your friends and family opportunities and maximise the good have their annual flu vaccination. times spent with family and friends. If

S P E C i a l i s t

COFFS COAST DERMATOLOGY Coffs Coast Dermatology, CCD, is your friendly, efficient and professional Dermatology service for patients of all ages within the Coffs Coast Community. Dr Gerrie Becker, our Dermatologist, moved to Coffs Harbour in July 2012 to provide a full time Dermatology service to the region. CCD is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of skin, hair and nail disease. Gerrie is a South-African trained dermatologist. He completed his primary medical degree and his postgraduate degree at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. He began Private Practice in South Africa in 1999 before relocating to Lismore in 2009 and has provided a dermatological service in Lismore, Coffs Harbour and Armidale since then.

He became a Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatology in 2010. Gerrie’s main areas of interest are dermatological surgery, psoriasis and inflammatory skin conditions, but he enjoys everything concerning general dermatology. Some of the services provided by CCD include allergy patch testing used in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic contact skin conditions, Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) which is used to treat actinic damage etc and a Phototherapy Unit (UVB) used in the treatment of skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis and vitiligo.

Mole Mapping is another very important service offered by CCD which involves taking photographic images using the Photofinder Mole scan and storing these images in a patient’s file for future comparison.

M E D I C A L

C E N T R E

COFFS cardiology In 1994, Coffs Cardiology opened its doors and since then, has grown into a vibrant and caring practice. It provides all those services available in City Cardiac Units.

Working closely with the Coffs Harbour Health Campus, Dr Waites has also developed Cardiac Services at the Base Hospital.

Coffs Cardiology are able to perform complex cardiac procedures which previously required transfer to Sydney.

They have visiting Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Paediatric Cardiologists.

Coffs Cardiology is proud to offer the whole suite of cardiac services. They offer consultations, 24 hour ambulatory blood pressure and Holter monitoring for rhythm disturbances, stress testing and echocardiography, as well as daily pacemaker and defibrillator interrogation and programming.

With their Clinical Trials Unit, they are at the forefront of drug development and through the hospital they access the Coronary Angiography Laboratory, enabling diagnostic and curative procedures to occur. They liaise with our Rheumatology colleagues, operating the first Rural Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Clinic in the country.

Their highly trained staff of 13 have a training program whereby local individuals are trained in cardiac technology.

Their staff members are extremely well trained, focused and loyal, caring for all patients. Their equipment is brand new and state of the art.

Centre for women’s reproductive care Dr Ward will be doing a lecture tour for General Practitioners and Physiotherapists in the region, updating the subjects of Menopause, Incontinence and Prolapse, and painful sex next month.

There is exciting new research in the area of menopausal treatment and its safety. Transdermal Oestrogens (patches and gels) are much safer, provide longer effect and have minimal effect on clotting events such as strokes, heart attacks and leg and lung blood clots. Also, the risk of breast and ovarian cancers is not significantly increased.

Women who start Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) early in their menopause are more likely to derive the most benefit from them compared with starting late when tissues have thinned out more.

Women who have undergone hysterectomy may need only Oestrogen, but additional progestogens are needed to protect the uterus if present.

While the decline of oestrogen levels is abrupt, testosterone decreases more slowly, unless the ovaries are removed. HRT is not for all women but now that one third of life may be spent menopausal, many of the troublesome symptoms and long-term deterioration can be safely and easily managed.

Dr Ward would be delighted to discuss these newer emerging treatments in person and answer your queries.

coffs coast focus.

63

focusinterview.

focusinterview.

meet a

local.

ADAM MILLER THE CONSERVATORIUM’S COFFS HARBOUR GUITAR FESTIVAL IS COMING UP IN JUNE. WE SPOKE WITH ONE OF THE VISITING ARTISTS, ADAM MILLER, ABOUT HIS LIFE AS A GUITARIST...

Y

our biggest influence is… to a few people through the day, and they said The major ones have been lots of people take guitars in for Les to sign, so I guitarist Tommy Emmanuel, thought I’d just turn up with a guitar. When I got Charlie Hunter and Bill Frisell. to the door of the club, they said that the shows I first heard a Tommy Emmanthat evening were already sold out. I said jokingly uel album when I was 10 and that “I’m one of the guest artists this evening”…

I just loved the fact he wasn’t singing with his Well, they took me seriously and escorted me voice, but with his guitar. It founded my love of into the club and back stage! Les was eating his instrumental music and pursuing a high level of dinner and looked up and asked who I was. I said expertise on the guitar. That led to me performing I’m from Australia and had played with Tommy and touring with Tommy from when I was 19 Emmanuel quite a bit. He then said, “Well, what years old. are we playing together tonight?” I then guested Charlie Hunter is one of the most for a few songs in the shows that night! innovative guitar players on the So I totally bluffed my way in! planet. He created a hybrid He got me up in each set eight-string instrument in and made me play a song which he plays bass and solo first. He took the time I said I’m from d ha d guitar at the same time! to make sure I knew that an ia Austral y m m It takes finger style the audience came first To ith played w bit. a ite qu l guitar to a whole other and entertaining them ue an Emm l, el “W , id sa level, but what I loved was his number one en th He ing most was that it made priority. That night really what are we play t?” it possible to play styles together tonigh changed my life! of music that were more Where is the most relevant to me. I play one of amazing place that you’ve Charlie’s old guitars and will be played, and why? performing with it at the festival!

That would be Tarin Kot, AfghanDescribe your most memorable onistan. I’ve had the incredible experience stage moment … of being able to perform twice for the Allied The first would honestly be every time I do Forces there. The rugged mountain landscape, my own show! A huge recent moment for me the truck stage and tank served as an amazing was doing a show at 55 Bar in NYC in early 2014. backdrop! Performing to a sea of camouflage 55 Bar is a famous modern Jazz venue, although uniforms and rifles was a very proud moment. it’s a very small place (fits maybe 60 people Thanks Adam. uncomfortably!); it has so much history, and I’ve seen many amazing shows there. Not only was it the plug! surreal to perform there, but I also had a dream band in Tony Mason on Drums (Charlie Hunter, Coffs Harbour Guitar Festival. 3 days John Scofield), and Andy Hess on Bass (John of workshops, concerts and events Scofield, Robben Ford).

You have played with Les Paul; tell us about Buy tickets and register that experience. www.coffscon.org I was in NYC for the first time in 2007 and 6652 1592 really just checking out the whole place. I spoke

“

64 coffs coast focus.

bacio girls T R A C E Y & G E N E V I E V E R O H R BACIO CAFÉ, A SMALL BUSINESS MAKING A BIG DIFFERENCE!

H

i Tracey and Genebarriers and stigma some of our team may vieve, what is your have faced. story… Where did Despite being told repeatedly by some you grow up and that we are destined for failur, we have had what brought you to tremendous support from family, friends, Coffs Harbour? the Men's Shed and local disability support We were born and raised in Toowoomba, organisations. It has been tough, including Queensland. We spent a few years moving long hours and sacrifices. There have been about and looking for the best place tears, but much more laughter! We are to call home. We decided to move motivated by the enthusiasm and haphere after hitching a ride with piness of our team members. a lovely couple from Coffs How have your family Harbour who gave the influenced you both? town an outstanding Our older sister, Over the years we watched our review. So far we have Melissa, was born ted not been disappointwith Autism and our parents, dedica nd s ie fr d an rs he teac ed. parents were told that ‘up give a collect ive e You've recently she wouldn't be a conos yours’ to all of th o taken over Bacio tributing member to r to who deemed he Café on Harbour society.

This limitation difficult.”

Drive. How have you was placed on her before changed the menu? she could even talk. Over We like to change our the years we watched our menu regularly, but keep it parents, dedicated teachers and simple yet interesting. Our burgers are friends give a collective “up yours” to all always on offer, along with a few other faof those who deemed her too difficult. vourites. Our team has the freedom to create At 32 Melissa can read, write, she has menu items and experiment with milkshake completed TAFE courses, won many awards and smoothie flavours. and now makes an incredible difference by What’s your business model and where working with special needs children and uses does your passion derive … her spare time to visit the elderly that are Bacio provides training and up skilling for isolated. people with disability. Yet we provide a fun Our family has taught us to constantly chaland relaxed environment where everyone lenge ourselves, to champion others and to has the freedom to be him or herself and be never place limitations on anyone. Above all, given the opportunity to have creative input. bite off more than you can chew, and chew We bought Bacio Café to specifically use as like crazy. a platform to promote social inclusion and Bacio Café, awareness after getting frustrated at the 9/4 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour.

“

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

K

ylie, you’re a pure creative at heart. Share with us how you came to be in the field of interior design ...

I actually studied and started my professional life out as a graphic designer, working for a design agency in Sydney. After a couple of years learning about layout, balance and type, I found myself working for magazines - namely interior publications - before heading into my life changing title of Vogue Living. Suffice to say, this is where my passion and development for all things “interior design” really blossomed and, well really, it was the defining stepping stone into my career as an interior designer.

Two Birds Design is your interior design business, along with partner Kristie Peel.

Tell us a little bit about what you can offer clients ...

Experience, passion and professionalism.

Kristie and I have worked together for over 12 years both as colleagues and business partners. We have a great understanding of each of our strengths, which we believe reflects in our quality of work and services we offer clients - we simply love what we do.

We offer a wide range of services to suit our clients’ needs, from one-off hourly consults to full exterior and interior works, renovations, new homes and commercial spaces. Our approach is to always work with the client to ensure that their expectations are met and a beautiful design is completed; after all, we want our clients to love their home, office space or the like.

Interior design trends seems to move at a rapid pace. How do you stay up to date with all the current looks?

We are always on the lookout - absorbing - even when we are not at our desk we are thinking and retaining ideas for the next potential project.

We attend trade events, flick through magazines and scroll our fingers through countless websites, blogs, online resources - it really is endless, the research side of this career. It’s all about knowledge; without it, it makes the job that much harder to find the best components and options for a design concept.

My design ideas and approach are

influenced by a wide range of mediums. I go for a coffee and see something that could work on a current project, or appreciating nature or a new streetscape; it all influences me. I also draw on the rich history of design as inspiration as well. It’s truly amazing the diversity, creativeness and inspiration you can find in exploring the past.

How does social media play a role in your business?

Social media, like Facebook and Instagram, keeps us MY DESIGN IDEAS in someone’s front AND APPROACH ARE of mind. That’s what INFLUENCED BY A WIDE it’s about and if we RANGE OF MEDIUMS. I can inspire and create GO FOR A COFFEE AND some passion and SEE SOMETHING THAT design works in the space. interest in design, that COULD WORK ON A What type of style do that’s all we can ask CURRENT PROJECT, OR you consider your work for.

APPRECIATING NATURE OR is influenced by?

Likers, friends and A NEW STREETSCAPE; IT ALL I don’t necessarily think followers may not INFLUENCES ME.” I have an exact “style”, necessarily use you as such. I am a bit of a today, but they’ll hunter and gatherer remember a post or meaning I take bits from everywhere. photo which inspired them.

I love a story more than a theme. When We also find that being on social media I ask a client about the room(s) they are affords us a greater audience than if we were wanting me to look at, my first conversation is not on any social media networks at all. By normally directed towards understanding why the way, you can find us on Facebook and they have the items already in the room, in Instagram! storage even hidden away in another room or Being an established business of four cupboard - not being critical of how it presents years, what types of challenges did you initially. I love being able to show that old and face along the way? new can work together - it generally all comes Thankfully, nothing we haven’t been able to back to balance. learn and gain experience from.

People who have been around me long We have grown from strength to strength, enough or have had me work with them including moving to a more convenient previously know my favourite saying is location in the CBD - at 91 West High St. “eclectic”. I love the versatility of it; it’s not Small business can be challenging, but it’s all age driven nor palette - it’s simply balance. about your appetite for success and attitude.

How does working outside a major city What is your philosophy on service? help/hinder with design influences/ We are mindful that people are busy exposure? and budgets can be tight, so we believe This gap is definitely closing due to the an important part of the Two Birds Design obvious reason - the internet. philosophy is our ability to communicate We can access just about anything visually well with our clients, architects, builders and it’s the tactile we miss out on. people in the trade. To be truthful, in our Accessibility and freight are more of a designs sometimes we will make suggestions challenge being regional (which ultimately of items that are not the cheapest - but they can affect cost, making online shopping hard are the statement piece - and that’s our job! competition). Plus, getting our wholesale It’s about the bigger picture and how the

KYLIE MACKAY

TWO BIRDS DESIGN

“

suppliers to send out people/sampling has also declined due to expenses - that’s why attending trade events is so important.

As I have mentioned previously, we are a tactile bunch, so we need to be able to use this sense to allow our hard drive (brain) to retain the information for a future project.

For those budding designers out there, what are your top three tips to decorating a space?

1. Move it around - don’t be afraid to mix it up. Not everything needs to match!

2. When looking to furnish a room, make sure all items of furniture are not against every wall. Look at the space - especially in the middle.

3. Multi-purpose - it needs to look visually great (of course!) but can it also be useful/ practical. Think beyond just looking magazine worthy!

Do you have a mentors, and how have they shaped your career and attitude?

I have been lucky to have had both mentors in my graphic design life as well as my interior design life.

Emma Sutton (graphic design - Emma taught me the trade and continues to work with me today.

Melinda Ashton Turner (stylist, blogger, guru!) - I worked with Melinda at Vogue Living; she has made me look at everything around me with potential design ability and that everyday objects can look amazing - it’s all about the placement!

Thanks Kylie. coffs coast focus.

65

ONE STEp Conveyancing We have found our dream home. Now the formal stuff, what is it that you do? In very simple terms, conveyancing is the legal transfer of property from one person to another. Many people are surprised to find out that they don’t need a Solicitor to handle their conveyancing work. We concentrate on checking property titles, access rights, zoning regulations, the identification of existing easements and any relevant Council requirements. Therefore, we can handle every detail of a property transaction, and it’s our intention to keep you updated at all times.

ACCENT Bathrooms ACCENT BATHROOM AND KITCHEN CENTRE HAS ALWAYS BEEN SO COMPETITIVE IN THE INDUSTRY, THAT THE CUSTOMERS STILL SAY, “YOUR PRICES ARE SO CHEAP; HOW CAN YOU DO IT?”

I

t is with such pride that still after 34 years they have always given value for money and only on quality wellwarranted products. They want consumers to shop locally and still achieve the project they wanted, no matter how large or small their budget is - and they have been successful in doing that. It must be remembered that sometimes these purchases will be some of the largest the customer will ever make, and it is important that only quality products be selected.

Glennis has created an outlet to assist the consumer to make their selection from as many products as are available for bathrooms, kitchens and laundries and not to be restricted by the home brands of the nationals, and she used to travel to Germany every two years to keep up with the latest trends; this earned her respect not only from her customers, but from the suppliers as well, as they realised how committed she was to the industry. It is not just a job for her, but a real passion, and it has stood the test of time.

Accent is well known on the North Coast as the most comprehensive showroom of bathroom and kitchen products between Sydney and Brisbane. Being locally owned and operated allows Accent to be totally independent; there are no perimeters in the industry to comply with, whereas the national companies are restricted and restrained by in store red tape and company guidelines. The customer has great confidence in dealing with the owner of the store, and not just a manager.

Accent is a member of an Australian buying group of over a 100 stores, which enables them 66 coffs coast focus.

to be more than competitive. They sell all their products at below trade prices and do not have “lost leaders” - all the pricing is fair and honest!

Accent only sell products that can be relied on and from recognised suppliers, and they have been dealing with some of their suppliers for 30 years and have good relationships with them all.

Customers must visit Accent before making their final decision and will be rewarded with large savings on their purchases!

Accent is as unique as it was 34 years ago and the reason for its existence is the same - and that is to offer an extended range of quality products and a service second-to-none and for the customer to be able to deal directly with the owner of the store. It is important that the customer shops locally and supports the local business, and it will not cost the customer anything except save them money. Accent and Sawtell Kitchen Centre have always supported local organisations and charities and spend a lot of money on advertising and promotion, thus assisting other businesses in the area. It is vital to the competitive industry to deal locally!

The New Kitchen displays from Sawtell Kitchen Centre are now located within the Accent building and have added a new concept for the consumer. They are now able to select their kitchen, bathroom and laundry products all under the one roof, making it more relaxing for the customer to make their decisions and still deal with the same owners of both businesses.

The new displays are stunning and show the latest in the electronic technology; they are still manufacturing in Sawtell at their own premises.

Both the buyer and seller are asked to

your competitors? We pride ourselves on

provide a conveyancer for the sales and

being “One Step” ahead of our competitors.

purchase agreement. What should one

Having access to the most up to date legal

look for when making that decision? Buying

software, making for a streamlined, fast and

or selling a property is probably the biggest

efficient service. In fact, you can log onto

commercial transaction you will make in your

our website and check the progress of your

lifetime. Make sure your conveyancer speaks

conveyance by just a click of a button. We offer

your language and you understand your rights

very competitive “fixed fees”, so you know

and responsibilities. Your conveyance should be

exactly what you are paying up front. We are

attended to in a fast and efficient manner, with

proud to say that you can have peace of mind

excellent communication provided throughout

when using One Step Conveyancing, as you

the process. Look for specialist attention to

will speak with a Licensed Conveyancer one

your conveyancing work and the sort of friendly

time, every time. We also offer a mobile service

and personal service you would expect.

to our clients, so we can come to you at a time

How does your service stand out amongst

that suits your needs.

COFFS HARBOUR IS SET TO BECOME A GUITAR MECCA, WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE COFFS HARBOUR GUITAR FESTIVAL FROM JUNE 5 – 7.

PRESENTED BY THE COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL CONSERVATORIUM IN COLLABORATION WITH THE COFFS HARBOUR MUSIC SOCIETY AND SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY, THE FESTIVAL WILL FEATURE THREE INTERNATIONAL SOLOISTS IN CONCERTS AND WORKSHOPS THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND.

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ho is coming?

The dashing young Swedish classical guitarist Johannes Moller has captivated audiences throughout the world with charismatic and soulful performances and is also considered by many to be the most prestigious guitar composer in the world. His solo performance is being co-presented by the Music Society as the first concert in their subscription series and will feature his own works, as well as a selection of well known classical pieces.

Adam Miller is an extraordinary Australian Jazz, Blues and improvisational guitarist who has made his mark internationally and performed with the likes of Tommy Emmanuel, Les Paul, Martin Taylor and many more.

Matthew Marshall is considered one of New Zealand’s finest guitarists, specialising in experimental, improvisational and classical guitar.

He is currently Professor of Music at Southern Cross University in Lismore and will be directing the Festival Guitar Orchestra, made up of students and guitarists from across the region, as well as conducting an experimental workshop

and concerts.

What’s on?

Workshops by each soloist will be offered to all guitar lovers, giving students insight and COFFS HARBOUR inspiration in all areas of guitar playing.

Solo concerts given by each artist will be followed by a Grand Festival Concert featuring the guitar orchestra, the soloists, Play along with Conservatorium tutors and the these amazing Conservatorium’s Academy, atter musicians , no m rounded off by a fun jam u yo what standard session on Sunday. A full !” ed have achiev to entertain and inspire all music lovers! before performing calendar can be viewed on the Do you have discounts available? alongside the soloists and Conservatorium’s website.

Each concert or workshop can be attended Conservatorium tutors at How can I get involved? individually, or you can purchase a Festival the Grand Festival Concert.

Play along with these amazing Pass that gives you entry to all events, plus the Attend a workshop and learn musicians, no matter what standard exclusive chance to win a guitar to the value of about technique, interpretation, you have achieved! All guitarists of all $800 and an invitation to the launch party on improvisation and be inspired by these standards are welcome to join the guitar Thursday 4th June.

By purchasing a pass, you incredible performers’ stories.

Or simply sit orchestra and need to register their names and save up to $65. back, relax and attend the performances! details by phoning the Conservatorium on 6652 Where do I buy tickets?

I don’t play the guitar; can I still come along?

1592. The cost for inclusion in the guitar festival Individual concert tickets and festival passes are Absolutely!

The concerts and workshops are all is $45, or free with a festival pass. The guitar available online at www.coffscon.org.au open to the public and have been programmed orchestra will rehearse on Saturday and Sunday

GUITAR

“

• F E S T I V A L •

coffs coast focus.

67

s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Carmel Kestles, Tianda Mack and Ashleigh Bialic

Duncan Marchant and Alex Bruggisser

Mark George and Adam Doyle

Lauren Fraser, Mel Crossland and Martin Wells

Sam Wardman, Mel Crossland, Paul Grant and Karla Hannaford

Ben Donnelly and Michelle Aubert

Peter Timothy, Alice Williams and James Parker

Caroline Campbell, Jarred Huster and Kirsten Howton

Element Bar

M

ore and more people are deciding that this area is definitely a desirable holiday destination or even better, it’s the ideal place to retire or make that fabulous sea change to. But one thing is definitely for sure; there are certain things that will always remain the same!

Whilst you can enjoy the buzz of the Coffs Harbour township with is fabulous boutiques, galleries and city type eateries, its takes so little time to drive and enjoy the serenity of the countryside.

We have a selection of markets and fairs that are held around the town throughout the year. One of my favourites that are coming up is the Emerald Beach Community Fair, which will be held on Sunday, May 21st. There will be all the fun of the fair as usual, delicious food and a variety of stalls and entertainment to please everyone. For enquires, visit www.emeraldbeachfair.info In recognition of World Autism Awareness Day, a bit of excitement occurred in the Coffs Central Shopping Centre. The project was organised by local Moonee Beach mum Liza Clark, who has a young son with Autism and has a positive awareness of Autism and likes to spread the message of embracing difference in our community. The excitement consisted of a flash mob of around 50 dancers entertaining a mass of onlookers, creating a positive buzz for all involved. Singers Liza and Andrew launched into their unique version of Try a Little Tenderness, with rewritten lyrics promoting Autism awareness before local dance goddess Christina Monneron, 68 coffs coast focus.

Social/scene. who choreographed the performance, burst onto the spontaneous stage followed by the flash mob.

Totally uplifting!

The Coffs Harbour Revival Centre held their 21st Sawtell Easter Weekend at the Sawtell Beach Caravan Park just recently. The event usually attracts 250 to 350 people to the area from the UK, PNG, NZ, Canada, Fiji, Europe, and Columbia, plus all over Australia. They met up in the park for different meetings, including a communion meeting on Easter Sunday - with this year’s theme “The Resurrection and the Life”. There was a sausage sizzle for lunch at the weekend, raising funds for the Malawi Relief fund overseas. Great environment, where people of all ages can meet up, make music, enjoy the beach and the fun of the Coffs Coast.

Also staged at the Sawtell Beach Holiday Park was the 10th anniversay of the Kombi Club Australia. I attended this show with my family, who instantly insisted we buy one! This group of enthusiasts are out to have fun whilst travelling and showcasing their love of everything Kombi! Check out www.

Kombiclub.com I finished work at the store and literally walked next door to the beautiful “Miss Minnie’s” Boutique.

It was an event to celebrate the store’s first birthday.

The guests were having lots of fun, sipping bubbles, eating delicious canapés and having oodles of fun!

There is a new group in town called The Coffs Coast Connections. It has been formed by two local businesswomen with a focus on education and support, while building lasting relationships with

Our sensational Coffs Coast is constantly changing.

fellow business people. Meetings are every second Thursday, 9:30am - 11am at the Beachstone Café.

The official launch is on the 30th April, which I am looking forward to attending. For more information, see Facebook or contact Ashleigh 0409 484 019 or Carmel 0413 903 407.

Also coming up at the Coffs Harbour Showground is the 101st Coffs Harbour Agricultural Show. Part of the show includes the Coffs Harbour Showgirl competition, which is co-ordinated by Melissa Crossland.

The competition is open to young women aged between 18 - 25 and junior showgirl to those aged 10 - 17 years. Melissa pointed out that this is not a beauty pageant, but allows young women to answer questions and show interest in the community, discuss their life goals and demonstrate they have the personality to represent the show.

The major sponsor for this event is Good Price Pharmacy, who will be providing some fabulous prizes for the event. I am extremely excited, as House of Le Dãin Designs is also a sponsor and will be styling and dressing the coordinator Melissa Crossland, along with the entrants, for the competition.

To add to the glamour, a group of hair and beauty students along with teachers from the Coffs Harbour TAFE will beautify the girls for the show. Lots of excitement!Also in the fashion and fun department, here is a friendly reminder to purchase your tickets for Kirsten Howton’s Biggest Morning Tea Fashion Parade event. This function will be staged at the beautiful Bonville Golf Resort on the 21st May. The tickets are only $35 dollars and will include a deli-

cious sweet and savoury morning tea. They are on sale and available now at The Bonville Golf Resort, Parry’s Jewellers in Coffs Harbour and House of Le Dãin Designs in Sawtell.

I finished up at the store and headed on down to The Element Bar at the Jetty with my girlfriend, Kirsten. We were out to attend the launch of a new social club in town called The Jetty Club. We arrived early, and there were already about 50 people ready to have fun and socialise. This is an opportunity for like-minded professionals to catch up and have a few drinks or dinner after work. Samantha Wardman, Adam Doyle, Mel Crossland and Lauren Fraser got together and threw it out there that once a month a gathering would be a great way to meet new and old friends and professionals. This club is open to any age and any profession. The evening was easygoing and definitely fun. The one thing we will do next time is eat ... Everything that was coming out of the kitchen at the Element Bar looked delicious! The next event is 21st May, 6pm, at The Element Bar. I attended another BWN breakfast meeting, which was, as usual, a wonderful way to start the day.

This time the event was held at the Coffs Harbour Golf Club. After breakfast we got to enjoy the guest speaker for the morning, who was the ever popular Karen Schidmt. The next meeting is on Thursday 14th May and is an evening event. The function will be held at Pansabella Providores and will have a Fashion theme. Book early!

Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Anne Blair, Donna Alderman, Karen Schmidt and Karla Hannaford

Jacqui Barnett, Jeynelle Forest, Bonnie Cappell, Sandra Belling and Karen Schmidt

Linda Stocks and Kellie Pearce

Andrew Barton and Melissa Manning

Judy Patterson and Lorraine Keen

Coffs Harbour Revival Centre Event

Social /scene.

Marion and Peter Mein, Dawn McInnes and Pat Millar

Coffs Harbour Revival Centre Event

Bernice, Jamie, and Dawn McInness.

Sawtell Art Centre’s Flora and Fauna Event.

Christine and Gary Gardiner

Sawtell Art Centre’s Flora and Fauna Event.

Sawtell Art Centre’s Flora and Fauna Event.

Miss Minnie’s First Birthday

Miss Minnie’s First Birthday

Miss Minnie’s First Birthday

Sandra Belling, Laurie Thring, Kristy Pursch, Liza Clark, Christina Monneron, Lisa Toby

coffs coast focus. 69

focusbusiness with Melanie from MJ Accountants

Money WITH MELANIE

meet a

local.

ACTING LIKE A BUSINESS OWNER? Krystie Boyes started Champ Cleaning in December 2011 with one customer and one other person working with her. Just over three years later, her business employs 17 people and manages ten corporate sites, and she has brought in partner Justin Male as a supervisor. Business is booming!

Ironically, it is often when business is good that business owners need the most help.

Growth can be a tricky, even scary, business.

So we were delighted to grant Krystie one of MJ Accountant’s 2015 Business Excellence Scholarships.

To date, she and Jason have had three business coaching sessions with our accountant Steve Oakley. This week I checked in to find out what they have learned so far.

Mel: What has been your biggest learning in the coaching process thus far?

Krystie: Well, I’ve been told this before, but Steve has helped me to FINALLY realise I need to “get off the mop”. It’s hard for me. I’ve always been a worker, an employee. But I’m not just a worker anymore. I’m a business owner, and I have to start acting like one.

Mel: What has prevented you from acting like a business owner in the past?

investment. I’m investing in myself so that I can develop the business.

Mel: That’s fantastic! What about business planning?

Krystie: When we first went to Steve, he asked us where we were going … and we realised that we had no idea. That’s when we finally understood why we needed a business plan.

So that’s been our primary focus. After three sessions, we are already much clearer about our direction.

Mel: Can you give us some idea of your direction?

Justin: We’ve started to explore opportunities for growth. We think we can expand our services to create a “one stop shop” for our existing clients.

So we’re investigating outdoor maintenance, test and tag, upholstery cleaning … services that our customers currently have to source from another supplier.

Krystie: It’s quite achievable. We already have staff capable of doing all these extra services, so we wouldn’t even need extra training. And it would be great for our customers.

Mel: How has coaching helped you to define your direction?

Krystie: I think it’s been a fear that I wasn’t capable of operating a business. I can definitely clean, that I know. But expanding Champ Cleaning, that’s scary! Plus, I’ve got serious control issues. It’s hard for me to let go of the mop!

Krystie: Steve understands what questions to ask and he deciphers what it is we are trying to say (more me than Justin). He supports our ideas and gives us new avenues to look at. It’s about confidence, really. His support gives us confidence that we are heading in the right direction.

Mel: So, what are you doing to start acting like a business owner?

Mel: Has the coaching been what you expected?

Krystie: Well for one thing, Steve has persuaded me to enroll in an LMA course. I’ve considered it before and thought it was too expensive. But now I realise that it’s not an expense - it’s an

Justin: We had no idea what to expect. And then it clicked: they are here to help us grow!

70 coffs coast focus.

Justin is right! MJ Accountants is here to help all of our clients grow and thrive.

W

SCOTT BROWN

hat is your role at G.J. to the customer. So the transition was an easy Gardner Homes, and how one. long have you worked What do you enjoy the most about your there? role and about living on the Coffs Coast?

I joined the team at G.J. Gardner Homes Building a new home is a massive step for Coffs Coast in mid-March as a New Home Sales most families, and so I enjoy that this role Consultant. In this role, I work alongside clients lets me help people with one of life’s biggest as they plan and build their dream homes. This decisions. The look on a client’s face when they involves everything from choosing the right finally get the keys and can move into their floorplan to selecting colours and finishes, and dream home is what makes the job great. putting together quotes and contracts.

During my career I’ve lived and Most importantly, I keep clients worked in a range of places, informed throughout the sales including Lismore, Casino to and design process, and and Brisbane. I’ve now e ov m e Th answer any questions that been in the Coffs Coast full-time sales l-I ra tu na pop up along the way. area for almost 10 years y irl fa as w re a I’m the third member and love the relaxed think when you’ re of the G.J. Gardner coastal lifestyle. There tradesman , you’ son er partially a salesp u’re Homes Coffs Coast are not too many yo as well, because sales team, and it’s places in Australia or es and selling your quot e exciting to be working even the world with th workmanship to with a growing team. a great climate and customer.”

We’ve just started beaches combined with constructing a brand-new a strong economy that display home, The Stillwater provides such an ideal work-life 303, situated in the latest stage of balance. the North Sapphire Estate, and it will be Tell us something that we don’t great for clients to see the new features know about your day job? and coastal appeal as they are planning … selling new homes isn’t a case of just their homes. picking something off the shelf - it actually Tell us a bit about your background and involves a lot of design work! what attracted you to this type of career?

At G.J. Gardner Homes we offer a custom I have five years’ experience in new home design service for all our clients, as well as our sales, so this role was a perfect fit. But I also quality home range. So we spend a lot of time have a trade background in the construction sitting with clients and helping them modify industry, including as owner/operator of my and refine their home designs to suit their own business. This gives me a great working block of land and lifestyle. I love this aspect knowledge of the building process, which I can of the job - it means there’s plenty of variety use to support clients as their homes are built. between projects, and best of all, every client For me, the move to full-time sales was fairly gets the house of their dreams. natural - I think when you’re a tradesman, G.J. GARDNER HOMES you’re partially a salesperson as well, because 171 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour. you’re selling your quotes and workmanship Phone: 6691 3509.

“

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

MAY 2015

with Terri

Who’s Cookin’ YOUR BOOKS

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

You are so clever at getting what you want.

Victory involving an important speech is at hand, and this will alleviate the feeling of waiting and wanting change to come forward. You are not on your own; there is a wonderful support system available to you.

Ruby helps us attain our highest ambitions.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20 Play a little more with your creative energy, as you are very gifted and when you’re creatively living life, you feel complete. New rewards are coming to you through career opportunities. Expect an easier financial flow.

Citrine attracts an abundance of good.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Celebrations are coming, so don’t give up your dream. You have needed to recognise your own strength and independence, so you can succeed. Don’t allow the frustration of feeling suspended to spoil your passion or focus. Ruby worn daily energizes the aura with passion and persistence.

TA U R U S .

April 21 - May 21

Love is in the air. Honest and open communication needs to be a high priority in relationships. Major life changing decisions need to be completely thought through, so avoid any hasty choices this month. Justice and peace are to be a strong influencing factor where career is concerned, so have and enjoy. Rose Quartz is a wonderful soothing crystal; carry it.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Recently “love” represented heart-ache and hurt, but now your disconnection has aligned you with change. There are some magical rewards coming for home, work and in matters of love and friendship over the next few weeks, so enjoy!

Turquoise is great for fun and friendship.

CANCER.

June 23 - July 23

Your personal strength is guiding you to a more determined and independent you; however, you may be feeling disconnected from your family and or loved ones at present. This will soon pass, leaving you in a confident, motivated and creative manner.

Citrine connects the intellect with creative energy and thoughts.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23

Set some fresh goals to maximise on the creative and artistic influences affecting your sign. Leadership qualities can be tapped into this month and offer selfenlightenment. Travel is likely to be high on the agenda soon. Herkimer diamonds are terrific for all kinds of change.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23

Change is coming to any circumstance where entrapment is concerned. Being unable or afraid to express yourself will soon be something of the past. Justice will be served and a new sense of freedom will be enjoyed. Set some new goals and enjoy.

Clear quartz amplifies strength.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 The world is your oyster. Set some goals to aid your availability to what the universe is trying to bring into the picture. A journey will help settle your itchy feet/restless energy and when you return home, you will be positively focused and ready to succeed.

The feeling of complete contentment will be yours. Sodalite enables our imagination to take us journeying into alternate realities, so we can realise what we desire.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 Congratulations: your recent hard efforts at work have paid off. A newfound respect has been activated from your personal changes. You have the ability to puppeteer people at the moment, so use this skill with the highest intention for all concerned and enjoy the success you deserve. Apophyllite tip placed on the third eye helps us to visualise.

Is your Contract Bookkeeper doing the following?

• Coding transactions for your BAS • Reconciling data entry for BAS Lodgement • Ascertaining Totals and filling out Activity Statements • Ascertaining PAYG withholding or the preparation of payment summaries.

Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) states: “You must not charge or receive a fee or other reward, if you provide a service which you know or should reasonably know is a BAS service and you are not a registered tax or BAS agent. For detailed information about the meaning of BAS service, refer to section 90-10 of the TASA”.

BAS Agents must have: • Minimum Cert IV Financial Services (Bookkeeping) • Minimum 1,400 hours relevant experience within the last four years • Maintain Public Indemnity (PI) Insurance that meets the requirements of the Tax Practitioner Board (TPB) • Registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) at Public Indemnity (PI) Insurance • Continuing Professional Education (CPE) of 45 hours for every three years of Registration • Governed by the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) Code Of Professional Conduct • And admintechniQs pty ltd also follows the Code Of Professional Conduct of a Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) approved Registered BAS Agent Association, the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) Pam Butcher is the BAS Agent for admintechniQs pty ltd, where the “Q” stand for QUALITY.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

November 23 - December 21

Situations may be forced on to you to show you your strength in your independence.

You’re about to become very busy, with a feeling of immense satisfaction for what you are doing. This is a time of healing past hurts also, so don’t be hassled remembering the things you want to say goodbye to. Jade brings a feeling of peace and well being.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Plans to travel may be interrupted, or may not flow smoothly. You have been gifted with an acute sense of intuition, so use it to live by and all fear will dissipate, leaving you only in the right place at the right time.

Record Keepers are great to travel with.

coffs coast focus.

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focusbusiness. President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, Clive Greenway

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Greetings to all the FOCUS readers from the business community in Sawtell. As we enter the last month of autumn, the weather is still beautiful and Sawtell is still enjoying a good number of visitors from all parts of Australia.

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recent Tourism Australia study has shown that connection with life and family and friends are ultimately what Australians are looking for when it comes to holidays. There is a strong desire to get away from the madness of everyday life and go back to the basics.

A lot of people expressed a desire to holiday as they had done in the past, enjoying basic pleasures. In fact, many wanted to share the experiences of their childhood with their own children.

It stands to reason then that Sawtell has become the perfect holiday destination, as we can comfortably address such wishes. Sandy beaches, fabulous climate, exquisite dining, boutique shopping, all essential services in a relaxed atmosphere are all on offer.

Authentic experiences are also on the wish list of would be travellers - “authentic” referring to not only the experience, but also the location and atmosphere. People crave truly Australian experiences away from the everyday and look toward indulging passions, trying new things and attending iconic Australian events. Food and wine festivals are often likely to encourage travel, creating an occasion and a reason.

Sawtell’s famous Chilli Festival in July comes to mind.

Many people responded that they would have liked to visit an event or festival, however, had only become aware of it too late. The 72 coffs coast focus.

LEGAL ADVICE FOR YOUR LIFE.

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SAWTELL E

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VISIT

VISIT S AW

clive greenway.

Legal advice for your life – with Kymberlei Goodacre Principal Solicitor, Coffs Law Co

challenge is to promote events in advance, to allow people to plan their visit. A mix of word of mouth, traditional and social media is paramount.

The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce began the marketing and promotion of the Chilli Festival in March prior to the event on July 4th, allowing tourists time to make their travel plans.

A long term marketing strategy has contributed very much to the growth in numbers year upon year.

Service is essential. The importance of service continues to grow, with all competitive destinations building their offers around this i.e. quality, attitude, attention to detail and overall approach. Value for money also rates as very important.

The village of Sawtell is constantly complimented on the quality of all on offer, competitive price points and friendly and honest service.

G

oing and seeing a lawyer can be an intimidating experience, with shining expensive signs and huge boardrooms. How are you different?

Yes, seeing a lawyer can be intimidating.

Sitting there with a huge desk between you and the lawyer, where traditionally the chair is uncomfortable, the room too hot or too cold and the lawyer sits there in a big leather chair behind the expansive desk exuding legal acumen that leaves you feeling bashed by a thesaurus!

I’m different - yes. That is not what I am about.

I’m all about user-friendly legal advice.

happening, the options available to you, and assist you to obtain a realistic, workable solution.

Who do you typically represent?

Clichéd, I know, but I do not have a typical client - they are all individuals with legal issues unique to their life. There is no such thing as “normal” in this world and legal issues.

Why did you decide to become a lawyer?

Who mentors you along the way, and what is your biggest inspiration?

I had three life altering events: the death of my brother, my divorce, and my battle with cancer. Suddenly at age 27, I realised I

I have a lounge room where we will sit and

didn’t have time to waste. I wanted to make

chat, or if you like we can share a cuppa and

a difference in the world, and in those three

a yarn in the kitchen (aka the boardroom). It

life-altering events, the law played a major role

might not sound radical, but for the conservative

in two of them, medicine the other. Law degree

legal fraternity, it’s cutting edge.

or medical degree? I chose to study law - shorter

My inspiration for Coffs Law Co. was and continues to be to offer legal advice in a safe, comfortable and confidential environment.

course and more up my alley, as I love a strong robust discussion!

Mentors were and are essential. I have a

To provide a place to talk about anything and

diverse range of mentors whom I collaborate

everything, which includes the good, the bad

with and draw knowledge from. All are from

and the morally ugly. It is critical in any legal matter: be it family, criminal or civil that your lawyer knows everything. I can provide you with easy to understand advice as to your options,

various professions who continue to challenge and inspire me in both my work and personal life. I believe just as children need good role models, adults need mentors to keep you

So it seems that Sawtell ticks all the boxes for Australian tourists and as we continue to strive to achieve this, we are justifiably proud of our reputation!

if you are able to talk frankly and openly about

The Sawtell Chamber of Commerce is run by a committed group of volunteers and meets on a monthly basis. We are always grateful for any support or assistance that is offered and welcome any enquiries.

do about it to help you get on with life.

hear your story. My responsibility to you, is to

Suite 2 / 37 Little Street.

We look forward to seeing you in sunny Sawtell.

guide you through the legal process affecting

(In the laneway beside The Happy Frog).

your life, so that you understand what is

(02) 5606 1225.

your issues. I’m there to listen. I’m there to help you, not to judge you. My job is to make sure you understand what’s happening, what you can

inspired and motivated.

One of my biggest inspirations (and I have many) is Marilyn Monroe, who said, “Give the girl the right shoes and she can conquer the

I can’t understand the jargon; will you

world”. Well, I don’t want to be serious all the

explain things to me in plain English?

time!

My role as your lawyer is firstly to listen: to

Coffs Law Co.

focus_tourism

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

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

CYBER

MUM

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS TEXTING, SEXTING, SELFIES AND NUDIE PICS

UPDATE WE AT TOURISM COFFS COAST BELIEVE THAT COFFS HARBOUR CAN BE THE BEST REGIONAL CITY IN AUSTRALIA AND CAN DEFINITELY BE THE BEST REGIONAL TOURIST DESTINATION IN AUSTRALIA.

W

orking together is the only way to make this a reality. The signs are positive, as I

Foreshore and redevelopment of the CBD get their support to ensure they become the focal points and key drawcards of the Coffs Coast.

Individual businesses are personally have seen chasing state and federal people in the tourism grants to enhance IN D IV ID UA L and business their products; BU SI N ES SE S community the Big Banana’s ATE E CH A SI N G ST R A rally together achievement A N D FE D ER A L A N CE to support H springs to mind, EN TO TS GRAN S; CT U D each other in and the grant O PR R TH EI NA’ S A N BA G regards to the funding they BI E TH T SPR IN G S replacement of received for their ACH IE V EM EN TH E TO M IN D, A N D a flight service water park. These G TH EY G R A N T FU N D IN EI R between Coffs types of upgrades TH R EC EI V ED FO R Harbour and and the introduction ” WATE R PA R K .

Brisbane. After having of new products to meetings with the staff the Coffs Coast will also from Virgin Blue, it was assist in attracting tourists, encouraging to hear that there as well as future residents to the was a common message about the area. need for such a service coming from the So whether it is at a breakfast meeting, tourist operators and business owners networking function or social get together, that they spoke to. when you get the opportunity let our Local, We need to remain focused and continue State and Federal Members know what you the momentum, and begin to engage our want the Coffs Coast to be and how we can representatives at Council, as well as our make the dream a reality. newly elected State Member and Federal And remember, that Tourism is everyone’s Member to ensure that items like the Jetty business.

“

O

K parents, I think we are getting the hang of this online awareness thing - it would appear last month's column struck a chord! This month we are talk “Sexting!” What is “sexting”, you ask? "Sexting” is the act of sending a "nudie pic" electronically, primarily between mobile phones, but can include internet applications such as email, or social networking sites like Snapchat, Instagram Direct Message, iMessenger, and the list goes on.

We all know kids and even adults love “selfies” - in fact, the whole world appears to love “selfies”, but from what I’m seeing, the more physically, sexually mature and sexually aware our kids are, the more risks they are taking with their selfies in their quest to look good and show off to their peers. What kids don't appear to understand is that there is a very fine line between a “Sexy Selfie” and a “Nudie Pic”.

So why does it matter? Well, apart from being considered socially and morally inappropriate, it is actually a criminal offence to take, possess or transmit (share via technology) a naked image of a young person under the age of 18. In NSW, the law says you can consent to both sex and "sexting" at age 16.

But NSW state law is not the only law that applies. When you use the internet or a mobile phone, the national law of Australia also applies. This national law bans "sexting" for anyone under 18. So when "sexting" involves someone under age, it is considered “child pornography” or an “indecent act”.

The other issue is kids don’t remember that as innocent as that "nudie pic" may seem to them now, once photos are sent, there is no way to get them back! Once they are in cyberspace, they become a permanent part of a person’s digital footprint. This means that they can forever be linked to the person and no

doubt will resurface when it’s least expected, like in five or 10 years, when your child is going for a job interview and the prospective employee does a Google search on their name! Not only is "sexting" illegal, but also the immediate fallout of “sexting” usually rears its head among the child’s peer group, school and local community, where the photo can and is often used to cyberbully and harass the child involved. The images then can fall into the hands, or computer, of those with a perverse desire to sexually offend against children and young people.

What's more, it doesn’t matter how you or your child came to possess the image, or if your child willingly took the photo themselves and sent it on, anyone in possession of a sexuality explicit image of a minor is breaking the law, and in NSW the law against the transmission of sexually explicit material is very clear; the reality is, your child would face the same charges a paedophile would face. The maximum penalties for child pornography can be up to 15 years in gaol and being placed on the sex offender register. The maximum penalty for an act of indecency is two years in gaol if the person in the picture is under 16. If the person is over 16, the maximum penalty is 18 months in gaol.

So, does your child know what to do if they receive inappropriate photos? If your child receives "nudie pics" or videos, even if they appear harmless or are intended as fun, they can avoid getting into trouble by deleting the pictures immediately and letting the sender know that they don’t want to receive any more of these pictures. Your child should NEVER forward these images onto other people, as it is a crime.

Cybermum Facebook: www.facebook.com/cybermumaus Instagram: @cybermumaus Blog: www.cybermumaus.com Email: cyber-mum@hotmail.com coffs coast focus.

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focusinterview.

ANNA SALLEH

Gorgeous Songs from Brazil and Beyond

PASSIONATE, VIBRANT, COLOURFUL, PRODUCING MUSIC THAT WILL STIR YOUR SOUL ... DON’T MISS ANNA’S STUNNING PERFORMANCE IN BEAUTIFUL BELLINGEN IN MAY...

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i Anna. What’s your background - where did you grow up?

Even in Brazil people think I’m a “Brasileira” (Brazilian) and I guess that’s not surprising, since I’m mixed race and just about everyone in Brazil is too. I also sing Brazilian songs in Portuguese as well as English - and am told my accent can be quite “Carioca” (from Rio).

My father is actually Malaysian and my mum is Australian. I was born in Tasmania and spent a few years in Malaysia as a child. Sydney has been my hometown since I started high school.

How and when did you first become interested in music and singing?

My mother and her mother were singers, and all through my childhood my parents played music in the house - classical, folk, world, jazz and everything in between. I remember being particularly mesmerised by my dad’s Ella Fitzgerald records. I had violin lessons when I was four, but the first instrument to really stick was a guitar I got when I was 12.

What’s your musical history ... I believe you performed across various genres when you were younger, including with acappella groups?

I played and sang folk and pop standards on guitar all through high school. In my 20s I busked, and performed at folk clubs and festivals, and later joined a five-part acappella group run by Gary Smith, who later became my partner. The group sang a lot of jazz and gospel and had loads of fun touring places like the Edinburgh Festival.

What attracted you to Brazilian music?

When I was young, my father ran a film club, which screened the film Black Orpheus - the story of Orpheus and Eurydice set in Rio de Janeiro at Carnival time. I was captivated by the film’s stunning views of the city from the hillside favelas, and by the irresistible rhythms and haunting melodies of its soundtrack. It really sowed the seeds for what I do today. In the last decade I taught myself to play jazz chords on guitar, 74 coffs coast focus.

got some tips on pronouncing Brazilian Portuguese, and started regularly performing bossa nova - see for example, https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=LIn my 20s I fibwW-bQos. busked , and lk You’ve spent a fair performed at fo als, and iv st fe bit of time in Rio de d an clubs e-part Janeiro. What were later joined a fiv n by ru p ou these experiences acappella gr later ho w , ith Gary Sm like - how did they ner.”

When I came back became my part help you grow both from Brazil, I was thoras a person and as a oughly inspired. With Gary’s performer? help I put together a show By 2010, I was so obsessed that has been evolving ever since. with Brazilian music, I packed up It not only includes honey-smooth my guitar and flew to Rio. I took lessons in bossa nova hits like The Girl from Ipanema, percussion and guitar, played with the locals, but also less well known exciting jazz samgot tips from bossa nova legends like Roberbas and playful choro songs. And it includes to Menescal, and generally did my best to get non-Brazilian tunes, ranging from ballads and some Brazilian “ginga” (groove). Carioca friend cheeky swing tunes, to original arrangements Luiz Carlos de Oliveira e Silva really encouraged of old favourites. Every tune creates a different me to look beyond bossa nova to other styles mood and tells a story. People can expect a like samba and choro. Samba is the traditional really fun night of variety - an intoxicating brew music of Carnival, while choro dates back to the of irresistible beats, exceptional beauty, passion, 19th Century and evolved from such things as irreverence, and joy. the polka from Europe combined with African You’ll have some very talented musicians rhythms. There is a thriving club scene in Rio on stage with you throughout the show. where you can spend hours enjoying the revival Please introduce us to these guys and tell us of these traditions. what instruments they play.

Going to Brazil is the best thing I’ve ever done Joining me on the night will be the extremely in my life. Perhaps that’s why some people say talented Stuart Vandegraaff (sax, clarinet, flute), I have a “Coração Brasileiro” (Brazilian Heart)?

Dan Holland (piano), Stan Valacos (double bass When I came back, I made an ABC radio docand Brazilian 7-string guitar), and Tim Bradley umentary about my experiences in Brazil. My (drums and percussion). They are all great mates time there gave me a much deeper appreciation and connected in some way to Brazil through of Brazilian music than I had before. It gave family or music or both. I absolutely adore their me tips on how to best transfer some of those talent and versatility at crossing styles as diverse thigh-wiggling rhythms to guitar. And it gave as hard-swinging jazz and sambas that make me the confidence to keep on channeling this your heart race, to gentle bossa novas and beautiful music. delightful choro tunes. I am very lucky to have Describe the show you’ll be presenting: them on board.

Gorgeous Songs from Brazil and Beyond.

You also have a live CD, called A Felicidade.

What led to the development of this show, What are some of your favourite tracks and what are some of the songs we’ll be from the album, and why do you like them? able to watch you perform?

“

The first incarnation of Gorgeous Songs from Brazil and Beyond formed the basis of my live album A Felicidade that came out in 2012. One of my favourite songs is Doce de Coco (Coconut Sweet), which Luiz in Rio introduced to me, and my debut performance of it was in a Copacabana jazz club. Not only has it got the sweetest melody, but it carries very strong memories for me of my time in Brazil. I also like O Samba da Minha Terra (The Samba of my Land), which has the lyrics: “I was born in the samba, I grew up the samba and if you don’t like the samba there’s something wrong with your head or something wrong with your feet!”. But I also like what we do with songs like Caravan - which is a jazz standard from my childhood.

What are your plans for the rest of 2015?

After our mini Mid North Coast tour, I want to capture the energy that’s with the band right now in a second album. Apart from that, we will continue our monthly residency at Sydney’s Foundry616 jazz club, and keep taking the show on the road, allowing it to evolve as we find more and more gorgeous musical gems to pick up and shine.

Thanks Anna. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See Anna at 5 Church Street, Bellingen on Saturday 23rd May, 7pm.

Tickets: $25.

Book: (02) 6655 0155

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

KIA ORA! GOLF AND GARDENS OF NZ

Kerry Moss FIji The heart of the south pacific

I am writing to invite you to join me on a journey, exploring my favourite gardens of my homeland, the South Island of New Zealand with Quadrant Australia departing in November 2015.

When I left New Zealand thirty years ago, nobody opened their gardens and over the years I have watched the situation change, noticing more and more lovely gardens opening their gates to the public. Even so, Richard, my husband, and I were amazed when we undertook a ten day reconnaissance of the South Island earlier this year. The variety and standard of the gardens took us completely by surprise, as we visited gardens large and small, town and country, historic and not so old, seaside and alpine, gracious and quirky, with many of international quality.

The garden owners themselves, without exception, were welcoming and passionate and included some incredibly knowledgeable plants-people, many of whom are recognised internationally.

And then of course, the gardens are all set against the magnificent backdrop of the South Island itself, and we will be experiencing the lakes, mountains, glaciers, valleys and coastlines

of one of the most beautiful islands in the world in my unbiased opinion!

And did I mention the food and wine for which NZ has earned such a great reputation?

This year, we’ve also introduced some exciting Golf Options in Queenstown and the Marlborough region.

Some people, on hearing of the length of this tour of a relatively small island, have expressed surprise, but believe me - it’s just the tip of the iceberg, and I have had to leave out a number of gardens I would love to have included.

Nevertheless, we will not be racing and will have time to relax, with the occasional day off, and time for retail therapy and golf!

So please come - we are going to have a great time, and I promise not to introduce you to too many of my relatives!

The team at Quadrant Australia located in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour will only be too happy to provide you a more detailed itinerary.

Warm regards, Lynne Walker, Tour Leader - Quadrant Journey’s Glorious Gardens of New Zealand’s South Island Tour 2015.

Fiji is blessed with 333 tropical islands and with a flight time of 3½ hours from Brisbane, it’s no wonder it’s one the most popular Pacific Island holidays for Australian families and couples looking for a tropical paradise.

C

hoose from a diverse range of accommodation, from exclusive 5 star resorts through to hostels or if budget is not an issue, then book an entire island just for yourself. Fiji has somewhere to suit everyone.

explored. It really is a water activity mecca: snorkel, dive, surf or kayak the pristine oceans, white-water raft the clear and clean waterways, cruise the ocean around the mainland and outer Fiji Islands or if you need a break from the water, trek through

As many readers know, I the rainforests or visit the welcoming delicately balance the needs villages and experience of a family holiday versus sustainable living with a an adult getaway. I was unique culture and history. pleasantly surprised If you need extra Fiji is an ideal to find that Fiji , ay lid ho incentive to visit, then r te win could satisfy both, y nn su y, dr , m ar ask someone about with w with family friendly May to ut ho ug ro th ys the Fijian hospitality. da resorts on the Coral September.”

The Fijian people are Coast, action packed welcoming, affectionate adventures available and sincere. They don’t in the Mamanuca operate on the same time Island and exclusive schedule that the city dwellers couple-only resorts with do and as a result, travellers find luxurious overwater Bures that themselves slipping into ”Fijian time” remind me of the more expensive quickly upon arrival. Afterall, it is the Fijian options of Tahiti and the Maldives.

“

Further off the beaten track there is still some traditional culture to be found, but rarely are those travelling to Fiji searching for it. Travellers are hypnotised by the white sandy beaches, swaying coconut trees, pristine oceans and coral reefs waiting to be

way!

Fiji is an ideal winter holiday, with warm, dry sunny days throughout May to September.

Drop in to see the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour to find out about the latest deals. coffs coast focus.

75

Old Bellingen Church

x-CORP BUILDING SERVICES Specialising in Office and Shop Fit-Outs with 30 Years’ Experience in the Commercial Construction Industry.

Based in Coffs Harbour, NSW, X-Corp Building Services Pty Ltd is a family-owned business with more than 30 years’ experience in the commercial construction industry, specialising in office and shop fit-outs.

X-Corp commenced 22 May 1998. Being successful means adapting to our clients’ needs and requirements, and we do this in a professional and unobtrusive way. Our team consists of fully qualified subcontractors, who work with us to produce a quality finish to all our projects undertaken.

We can assist with all areas of your commercial project, including: “from ground up” constructions, assistance with design concepts, complete office fit-out, complete shop fit-out and signage.

Assistance with Council/Private Certifier Applications Specialising In Office and Shop Fit-Outs.

30 Years’ Experience In The Commercial Construction Industry.

76 coffs coast focus.

WILLAID Health Care equipment Deciding to purchase a very comfortable chair doesn’t mean you are old. Most of us sit in our favourite chair at some time each day.

So, why not choose a really comfy chair that fits you! Chairs are generally made to fit the average person. At Willaid, we have a range of recline and lift chairs to fit a range of sizes from 5’ tall to 6’6” tall. As well as electric recline and lift chairs, Willaid stock a large range of height adjustable armchairs. Adjusting a chair to the correct height makes a great deal of difference in both comfort and ease of sitting and standing from a chair. If you are thinking about a new bed, Willaid has a great range of beds

which will sit you up and lift your knees into a very comfortable position for watching TV or reading. The beds raise and lower for safety getting in and out of bed as well. If mobility is becoming an issue, there is a range of products available. Willaid staff can assist and advise on something as simple as a walking stick to the latest in scooters. Stephen Rose, our scooter and power wheelchair specialist, will bring a scooter or power chair out to your home for a trial. Stephen will ensure that the scooter is the correct size for the terrain and distance that you need to travel, so that you will be happy with your purchase for many years.

coffs coast focus.

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FIRST CHOICE MEDIA

Y

ou guys must be so excited So $25 a month for a complete website? about First Choice Media’s reYep, it’s really simple! Select your theme, and launch! Whats different, and we will put it together for you. It doesn’t stop why are so many people talking there; we integrate features such as Google about First Choice Media? maps, reviews and analytics. You can We are not just any web sell products, chat with your design business. Our customers on your site! main focus is website More features include VO LC O M templates that start Australian hosting, US A P P ROAC H E D from $25 a month free domain, content ME OF SO N O S U C (No contract). management system FO TO N A LI A R ST U Our websites and more.

A T H E IR H AT T E C N SE E are cutting R P So what’s the O N LI N E OK GOOD edge! Inspired process? Select your N E E D E D T O LO N S, by some of the E E R SC theme and send your E ID W ON best brands in the ND A S E N content to us. This O H P T R SM A world. Best of all, includes images, text, ” S. T TA B LE we put it together social links, your page for you. names etc.

“

I hear you have been working with Surf Industry giant Volcom? Yes, Volcom approached us to focus on some of their Australian online presence that needed to look good on wide screens, smartphones and tablets. They are really fun to work with, and it has been a pleasure.

78 coffs coast focus.

What about if I need additional extras? We can do anything. Best thing is if you need design shuffled around, it will only cost a small one off fee for that add on instead of paying thousands of dollars for a complete custom site. We also can assist you with photography and video if needed!

Wedding Open Day

Peter Sechi Photography

BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort invites you to our wedding open day.

Saturday 23 May 9:30am to 1:00pm.

COMPLIMENTARY entry and on-site parking.

Enjoy

Experience

Accommodation offer

Let us spoil you as soon as you arrive with a complimentary gift bag.

Sip on champagne and canape's and be in with a chance to win an assortment of prizes including:

Experience our unique ceremony and reception spaces set and themed for you to picture your big day. Meet our experienced wedding specialists and inspect ceremony and reception locations. Our preferred suppliers including photographers, videographers, florists, entertainers, celebrants, decorators, cake makers and many more will be on hand to help you create your perfect day.

Make a weekend out of it and enjoy the resort's fantastic range of facilities including swimming pools, on-site day spa and beachfront restaurant.

* One nights accommodation for two in a Paradise Spa Bure at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort. * Dinner voucher for Casay Restaurant located at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort. * Vouchers from our recommended suppliers.

Book and confirm a 2016 wedding within 7 days from the open day and secure a 10% discount* on your wedding food and beverage account!

Ask about our winter wedding offer on the day!

*Discount applies to 2016 wedding food and beverage accounts only. Booking must be confirmed and deposited before 31 May 2015.

Relax in one of our stunning Paradise Spa Bures and we will treat you to a 10% discount* off our daily rate. *Discount subject to availability. Daily rate does fluctuate depending on availability. Valid for travel 22/05/15 - 24/05/15.

For more information, call (02) 6652 7555, email aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au or visit us at Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour. coffs coast focus. coff s coast focus 21 79

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We have taken out the award for Dealer of the Year (DOTY). The criteria are very stringent. Each dealership is measured on sales targets, market share, sales professionalism, vehicle handover and delivery, overall satisfaction with the sales experience and dealership facilities. It also includes the service department and treatment by all service staff and cleanliness of vehicle upon return, to name a few.

ISUZU Ute Australia National Dealer of the year 2014 is contested amongst the 103 dealers in Australia. Isuzu Ute was the fastest growing franchise in Australia in 2014, up a whopping 64%. To be endorsed by the manufacturer as having met all their criteria and more importantly, having that confirmed by all the kind words on our Facebook page, Coffs Coast Isuzu Ute, by our customers is really humbling. It really capped off a great record year, when you work in a job you love, selling Isuzu Ute. I am just so passionate about the brand; just ask my wife, Rebecca … She thinks I’m married to ISUZU. We used 3 ISUZU D-MAX Utes as our wedding cars in 2013.

Coffs Coast Isuzu Ute Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour South 02 6648 3566

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“ How long have you been with Coffs Coast ISUZU Ute, and what is it you love about ISUZU Ute? I am originally from Narooma on the far South Coast of NSW. I’m a baker and pastry cook by trade and after finishing my trade, I decided I wanted a change.

I was offered a position by our Dealer Principal Todd Blewitt to move to Coffs Harbour and run the Plaza Car Wash (formally Mike Blewitt’s Plaza Cars). I relocated to Coffs Harbour in June 2006 and jumped into my new role running the car wash. I met so many great people and established lots of local contacts. In 2009 the carwash was sold, and Todd offered me a job selling cars at the dealership - a

fantastic opportunity, as I love cars, especially 4WDs. The Mike Blewitt Group acquired the ISUZU Ute franchise just before I came on board selling vehicles in 2009. I love 4WDs and my Holden Jackaroo (an ISUZU product). I took a liking to the ISUZU Ute franchise straight away. Without hesitation, I took it under my wing. We started off selling just a few D-Max Utes each month, keeping five in stock at any one time, but as the word spread about the product’s reliability and class leading fuel economy combined with my infectious passion and love for ISUZU Ute, it rubbed off onto the customers.

Congrats to Carl and the team at Coffs Coast Isuzu Ute

82 coffs coast focus.

ISUZU Ute

The two to three a month turned to nine or ten a month.

The next step was the realisation that our customers needed a showroom to display a comprehensive range of vehicles. In late 2011 a five car showroom and and large display area was opened. We decided not to have a grand opening, as the customers just wanted great drive away deals with a towbar included. So we obliged them.

My passion for the ISUZU Ute product is probably a little over the top to most people, but I actually like helping people in making an informed decision when purchasing a new tow

vehicle for the retiree, family SUV for Mum and Dad to run the kids around town or a trades ute, where someone depends on the vehicle for their livelihood. I understand people are putting a lot faith and trust in what I say, and that’s why I always tell them when they pop in for a service just to call me and I will book them in myself and give them my ute for the day, so they are not left stranded. Some franchises call it a free loan car; I call it common courtesy.

Why buy an ISUZU Ute? D-MAX is built truck tough with a 3 L common rail turbo diesel engine, complete with steel timing chain that lasts the life of the engine. Add a 3.5 tonne towing capacity and a rust resistant, galvanized body, and you have

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a great vehicle ready to take on The engine runs a steel timing chain D-MAX & MU are the only every day or travel our great instead of a belt, which lasts the alia to vehicles in Austr litre country. life of the engine. euse ISUZU’s thre ISUZU MU-X is the perfect Our major competitors are rbo common rail tu seven-seater family SUV, a Mazda BT50, Toyota Hilux, Nissan hi ch diesel engine , w in the real 4x4 with three tonne Navara, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi d can also be foun two towing capacity, car like ride Triton and Holden Colorado. es ISUZU NKR seri and handling, while having the It is quite a competitive market, ” tonne truck. capability to go anywhere. and ISUZU holds its own.

For peace of mind, all ISUZU In Coffs Harbour, ISUZU D-MAX is the D-MAX and MU-X come with a number one selling ute. five year/130,000 km warranty, five year roadside assistance and three year capped price servicing.

What are the competing brands and models, and what makes the ISUZU Ute stand out?

The ISUZU Ute brand is built on truck heritage.

ISUZU have been the number one selling truck brand in Australia for the past 26 years. D-MAX and MU-X are the only vehicles in Australia to use ISUZU’s three-litre common rail turbo diesel engine, which can also be found in the ISUZU NKR series two tonne truck. This gives 130 kw of power and produces 380 nm of torque.

The towing capacity of our D-MAX 4x4 range is rated at 3.5 tonne and the MU-X range is rated at three tonne.

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Mention this article, and you can squeeze me for Who are some of the local businesses you work with? a free towbar this month.

Here at Coffs Coast ISUZU Ute, we believe in What are your finance packages? supporting local businesses and keeping money We have finance packages available through in our local community. Local businesses that Mercedes Benz Financial services, offering we work with include: K-Signs, Carbitz and TJM competitive rates and terms up to seven years.

4WD Megastore, ARB 4WD and Ute extras, Call in and see Bill or Fiona for a chat about Tint-a-car, Thrifty Car Rentals, Bob Jane the right finance package for you.

Tmarts, Essential Energy, Dave Browns What’s next for ISUZU Ute? Paint smart, Obieco, LMA, and ISUZU Ute has just launched Coffs Harbour City Council.

I-Venture Club. The I-Venture What deals and specials Club is a new way to have you got happening experience four wheel ast at the moment?

Here at Coffs Co driving. It’s an exclusive This month we have ISUZU Ute , we ISUZU owners club that orting Our Go Discover Deals: believe in supp brings together liked an es ss Our most popular local busine r ou minded people and in ey on m model D-MAX, the LSM keeping .” ity encourages them to un m m co 4x4 dual cab manual, is local utilise the adventure that on sale at $39,990 drive is inherent in all D-MAX and away, saving a massive MU-X. For more information, $10,000. Thinking automatic visit iventureclub.com.au add $2,000.

To view our D-MAX and MU-X stock, In the MU-X range, our 4x2 LSM check out our website: automatic is only $36,990, saving $8,000, while www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au the top of the range, the 4x4 LST automatic Like us on Facebook too: www.facebook.com/ you can drive away for just $50,990, a saving of $9,000 ($12,000 cheaper than a Prado GXL).

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custom designed by brian hopwood

B

uilding a home is a very personal journey. People’s individual needs are constantly changing throughout life as interests and families

CUSTOM DESIGNED HOMES BY BRIAN HAVE ALWAYS BEEN THE CORE OF HIS BUSINESS. THIS WILL CONTINUE TO BE OFFERED FOR THOSE WHO ENVISION A MORE CONTEMPORARY DESIGN USING MODERN ARCHITECTURE AND UNIQUE STYLES.

COFFS HARBOUR

evolve.

Brian has established a reputation through word of mouth recommendations for excellence in construction with high quality finishes and a meticulous approach to delivering results. He prides himself on developing strong relationships with clients, to make the construction process an enjoyable experience for all involved.

Our aim at Brian Hopwood Homes is

Proud Suppliers of

Brian Hopwood Homes

Proud to Support Hopwood Homes

AN

IT

Cetnaj Coffs Harbour 151 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 6691 6100 | coffs.harbour@cetnaj.com.au | cetnaj.com.au AN

ROUD OF DP

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ROUD O F DP IT

1/22 Keona Circuit Ph: 6652 4866 www.carpetcourt.com.au

to help you create a quality home that exceeds your expectations. We take great pride in delivering excellence, whatever the size and scope of the project at hand.

We value your decision to choose Brian Hopwood Homes and strive to deliver very personal service that makes the process of building as satisfying as the end result. You may have both the vision and budget to achieve your dream home, or you may have a great concept but need help to translate it into an affordable reality. Brian Hopwood Homes offer you the innovation and experience you need to achieve a stunning result.

Brian has built an extensive ard portfolio of aw om st cu ng winni e past homes over th 30 years.�

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Building Industry Booming After the Global Financial Crisis, home-building in the region dropped, an experience shared with many similar destinations, and now we find there is an undersupply of homes. According to the report put out by BIS Shrapnel in June 2013, the Coffs Harbour and Grafton areas would see building grow by 52% in 20132015 and would return building activity back towards the pre-GFC levels.

We did not see this boom take effect for our business until 2014, where we were able to secure land to build 10 house and land packages in the Sawtell area, which have all now sold. We have had a very positive start to 2015 and are predicting a considerable upturn in the industry within the next 12-18 months, if not further into the future.

We have secured a further six lots in

West Coffs, with building to commence in October 2015 - expressions of interest are now being taken. In addition to this, we have been in discussions with developers for a further subdivision north of Coffs at Sapphire, where we will build a new display home to showcase what we have to offer.

We have seen our enquiry on new home builds triple in the last 12 months, which is another indication of the upturn of

the industry. With the shortage of rental properties available in the area, this is a great opportunity for people to invest in their future by adding real estate into their investment portfolio, which may include self managed superannuation funds. We have financial professionals readily available to discuss all options, whether you are a first home buyer, investor or gearing yourself for retirement.

Reece Plumbing proudly supports Brian Hopwood Homes

Reece Plumbing Centre Coffs Harbour 177A Orlando Street Coffs Harbour 2450 Ph (02) 6652 4277

Reece Plumbing Centre Coffs Harbour South 12 Isles Drive Coffs Harbour South 2450 Ph (02) 6651 9444

or visit www.reece.com.au CoffsHarbour_InFocus.indd 1

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a message from brian

“ Why Build with Brian Hopwood Homes?

• Personal service - Brian meets you on site each week during construction.

• Planning - you work with Brian to design your new home.

• Personal Attention - our in-house colour consultant, Nat Hoy, is readily available to discuss and guide you through the selection process.

• Showroom - we have a showroom in our office at 101 West High Street showcasing the product range available.

• Honesty - we provide you with an upfront quote with all the inclusions and costings from day one.

• Enjoyment - we welcome you into our friendly,

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comfortable and relaxed office. Building should be fun.

Value for money - don’t think we are expensive, just because we do a good job.

• Resale - real estates advertise a home for sale as a Brian Hopwood Home because of the quality of our homes.

• Our size - we are small enough to be personal, yet large enough to be competitive.

• Flexibility - we are flexible; we can build your home on your land or our land. We can use your plans or our plans.

I have been building homes in the Coffs Harbour area for almost 30 years, and I love building. My favourite part of the process is visiting all my clients on site every week.

I love the genuine thrill of watching my clients see their dream come alive through using our quality products and local tradesmen.

I am a carpenter by trade so when people build with us, they will receive real information, including the total price, from the start.

They get the complete package and they deal with me direct (not a salesperson) from beginning to end.

Don’t be fooled by cheap start up prices.

Get all the facts from day one.

Call now for a free, no strings attached consultation with me.”

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RFBI COFFS HARBOUR • M A S O N I C

V I L L A G E •

Since the first Royal Freemason’s Benevolent Institution (RFBI) Aged Care Facility was established in 1972, RFBI has responded to the needs of Australia’s ageing population and has diversified their caring and benevolent role through the establishment of aged care facilities throughout regional NSW.

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FBI is a leading Aged Care provider, owning and operating aged care villages, independent living units and caring for over 2,600 elderly residents.

History of RFBI in Coffs Harbour In 1988, local Coffs Harbour Masons approached the RFBI with the view of establishing a local Masonic Village. Following this, in 1989 a local committee was formed and along with the RFBI, planning commenced immediately with on site preparations, plans, and eventual building activities.

In 1990, the first 30 Independent Living Units (ILUs), together with a Village Hall, were completed and officially opened by Mr. Matt.

Singleton, Member for Coffs Harbour.

The original nine bed Residential Care hostel was officially opened by the RT. WOR. BRO Frank M Jeffree OAM. P.D.G &M. in 1991. The Hostel was extended by a further nine beds, four years later. In 2001 a further 20 ILUs were added, and the Village Hall was extended to cater for the increase in residents.

Late 2002 saw the completion of a new 60

bed residential care facility. This facility was officially opened in 2003 by the Honorable Julie Bishop, then Minister for Ageing.

Facilities Coffs Harbour Masonic Village offers a 78bed accredited Residential Care Facility, which includes a separate 15-bed dementia specific wing, and 50 ILUs. Within the Residential Care, accommodation incorporates ensuite bathrooms, ceiling fans and ducted air conditioning. All common areas within both hostels are airconditioned. There are lounge rooms in each wing of both facilities. Catering is on site, with main meals served in the large dining room. The menu changes seasonally, and the staff welcome resident input. The dining area for dementia residents has recently been refurbished and extended to better cater to residents’ needs.

RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village’s 50 ILUs each have two double bedrooms with built in wardrobes. There are both upstairs and downstairs units, across twelve blocks, with secure entry to each block. There are also two single storey villas. All the ILUs have lock-up single garages, an attached laundry and a vital

call system. The quiet and peaceful surrounds offer maintained gardens and spacious grounds, incorporating a Village Hall and BBQ area.

Activities & Lifestyle Prospective residents looking to continue leading an active and social lifestyle can do so at RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village. The ILUs have an active residents committee, and various functions are held throughout the year in the Village Hall. The residential care facilities have spacious activity areas, providing a relaxed atmosphere for residents, with the option of participating in a wide range of activities such as concerts, fashion parades, parties, shuffleboard and carpet bowls competitions. RFBI also offer hairdressing services, podiatry and physiotherapy on site.

ACSA National Open Day On June 19, RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village are inviting residents’ families, friends and community members to explore the great services they have on offer as they celebrate ACSA National Open Day and promote positive relationships between aged care providers, residents and the community.

RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution

Join us in celebrating ACSA National Open Day

When: Friday 19 June, 10am Where: RFBI Coffs Harbour Masonic Village Explore the great services we have to offer with a special morning tea followed by activities with our residents.

Call us for more information.

33 Mackays Road, Coffs Harbour 2450 - ph 6650 2200 - coffsharbour@rfbi.com.au - www.rfbi.com.au

Masonic Villages: It’s how to live... coffs coast focus.

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NEW split-level designs.

Urban Facade

Introducing G.J’s new Split-Level Design series.

Contact us today to view the complete series.

designs specifically tailored to suit steep or sloping blocks. Whether your block slopes sideways, towards the front or away from the road, the Element Series of split-level homes can accommodate your unique site requirements.

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With a choice of three facades for each design,

ROBE

ALFRESCO

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you are sure to find a home that suits both your

FAMILY

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site and your tastes.

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FLOOR AREAS: Ground Living: Garage: Patio: Porch: Ground Total: Upper Living: Alfresco: Deck: Upper Total: TOTAL:

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39.1 m2 39.4 m2 4.3 m2 1.9 m2 84.7 m2 128.5 m2 16.2 m2 4.4 m2 149.1 m2 233.8 m2

Drop in for a chat today.

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NEW DISPLAY HOME OPENING SOON: North Sapphire Beach DESIGN CENTRE:

171 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour

Call us on 6691 3509 or visit us online at gjgardner.com.au

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DISCLAIMER: Images and photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features either not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes or not included in any price stated. For detailed home pricing or to discuss our building time program please talk to a New Homes Consultant. Fischer Built Pty Ltd trading as G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Coast. BL# 191313C.

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